AU2024203262B2

AU2024203262B2 - Methods and systems for minimizing risk of transmission of infection

Info

Publication number: AU2024203262B2
Application number: AU2024203262A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Hyunchul Kim; James ORRINGTON; Michael Prince
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-05-17
Filing date: 2024-05-16
Publication date: 2026-03-12
Anticipated expiration: 2041-04-02
Also published as: AU2024203262A1; AU2022256185B2; AU2022256185A1

Abstract

Abstract (Fig 1A) is: A method for mitigating risk of transmission of an infectious disease comprising: providing a substantially transparent shield component; providing a chamber component; and providing a suctioning component for suctioning aerosol attached to the interior surface of said shield component out of the space between said shield component and an individual occupying an object over which the shield component has been placed. Abstract (Fig 1A) is: A method for mitigating risk of transmission of an infectious disease comprising: providing a substantially transparent shield component; providing a chamber component; and providing a suctioning component for suctioning aerosol attached to the interior surface of said shield component out of the space between said shield component and an individual occupying an object over which the shield component has been placed. 20 24 20 32 62 16 M ay 2 02 4 2 0 2 4 2 0 3 2 6 2 1 6 M a y 2 0 2 4 100 102 103 704 101 FiG. 1A 20 24 20 32 62 16 M ay 2 02 4 F I G . 1 A 1 0 1 1 0 3 1 0 4 - 1 2 7 1 2 0 2 @ 0 0 1 2 0 2 4 2 0 3 2 6 2 1 6 M a y 2 0 2 4

Description

FiG. 1A 2024203262

101

103 704

1 16 May 2024

METHODS METHODS AND AND SYSTEMS SYSTEMS FORFOR MINIMIZING MINIMIZING RISK RISK OF OF TRANSMISSIONOFOFINFECTION TRANSMISSION INFECTION

FIELD FIELD OF OF THE THE INVENTION INVENTION 5 5 The present The presentdisclosure disclosurerelates relatestotosystems, systems, andand associated associated methods methods designed designed to to minimize the minimize therisk risk of of transmission transmissionofofthe theCOVID-19 COVID-19 virus virus and/or and/or other other sources sources of of infection in infection in environments where environments where there there is a is a high high risk risk of transmission of transmission due todue to individuals individuals 2024203262

being in being in close close physical physical proximity proximity to to one oneanother. another.Embodiments Embodiments of disclosure of the the disclosure relates relates to tosystems systems and and methods comprisingaerosol methods comprising aerosolshielding shieldingand andsuctioning suctioning features features 10 10 installable totoananobject installable objectsuch such as as aa chair chairover over which which the the shield shield component hasbeen component has been placed. placed.

BACKGROUND BACKGROUND COVID-19 COVID-19 is is anan infectiousdisease infectious disease caused caused by severe by severe acuteacute respiratory respiratory syndrome syndrome

15 15 coronavirus 22 (SARS-CoV-2). coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2).The Thefirst first cases casesofofCOVID-19 COVID-19 were were reported reported in in December, 2019,ininWuhan, December, 2019, Wuhan, China. China. Since Since that that time, time, thevirus the virushas hasspread spread throughout throughout

the world, the world,resulting resultingininaaglobal globalpandemic. pandemic. MoreMore thanmillion than 15.4 15.4 million patients patients have have been been diagnosedwith diagnosed withCOVID-19 COVID-19 across across more more thanthan 213 countries 213 countries and territories. and territories. As As of of thethe

date of date of this this disclosure, disclosure,there therehave havebeen been more than631,000 more than 631,000reported reporteddeaths deaths duedue to to 20 20 COVID-19. COVID-19.

COVID-19 COVID-19 may may be transmitted be transmitted via droplet via droplet contact contact (e.g., (e.g., coughing coughing and sneezing); and sneezing); direct direct physicalcontact; physical contact;indirect indirectphysical physicalcontact contact(e.g., (e.g.,touching touching a contaminated a contaminated surface); surface); and and airborne transmission. airborne transmission. The Theprimary primarywayway through through which which COVID-19 COVID-19 is transmitted, is transmitted,

25 25 however, is through however, is throughsmall smalldroplets dropletsproduced produced by by coughing, coughing, sneezing, sneezing, and talking, and talking,

whereindividuals where individuals are are in in close close physical physical proximity proximity to toone one another. another. COVID-19 may COVID-19 may be be

transmitted by transmitted by persons infected with persons infected with the thevirus viruswho whohave have not not exhibited exhibitedany anysymptoms. symptoms.

Future effectsof Future effects of COVID-19 COVID-19 remain remain in question, in question, as noas no known known solutionsolution exists exists to to mitigate mitigate

or eliminate or theseundesirable eliminate these undesirable conditions conditions conducive conducive to ongoing to ongoing transmission. transmission.

30 30

Close physical Close physical proximity proximity between peopleincreases between people increasesthe therisk risk of of transmitting transmittingCOVID-19 COVID-19

because because COVID-19 COVID-19 may bemay be transmitted transmitted via atdroplet via at least least droplet contact contact (e.g., coughing (e.g., coughing and and sneezing); direct sneezing); direct physical physicalcontact; contact;indirect indirectphysical physicalcontact contact (e.g., (e.g., touching touching a a

2

contaminated surface); and and airborne transmission. Social Social distancing, also referred to 16 May 2024

contaminated surface); airborne transmission. distancing, also referred to

as physical as physicaldistancing, distancing,isisone oneofof theprimary the primary tactics tactics that that have have beenbeen utilized utilized throughout throughout

the world the to attempt world to attempt to to contain contain the the spread of the spread of the COVID-19 virus.Social COVID-19 virus. Social distancing distancing comprisesmaintaining comprises maintainingcertain certain minimum minimum physical physical distances distances between between individuals individuals andand

5 5 reducing the number reducing the numberofoftimes timesthat thatindividuals individuals come comeinto into close close physical physical contact contact with with one another. one another.However, However,notnot allall activities permit activities permitofofmaintaining maintainingsufficient sufficient minimum minimum physical distances. physical distances. For For example, many example, many healthcare healthcare workers workers must must comecome within within closeclose 2024203262

proximity to proximity to their their patients patients in in order order to to perform their duties. perform their duties. Where closephysical Where close physical proximity proximity between peoplecannot between people cannotbebeavoided, avoided,there thereexists exists aa need needfor for a a system that is system that is

10 10 effective in reducing effective in therisk reducing the riskof of transmitting transmittingCOVID-19. COVID-19.

Particles areclassified Particles are classifiedbased basedon on size. size. Coarse Coarse particles particles are are 2.5 to 2.5 to 10 microns. 10 microns. Fine Fine particles are particles are less less than than2.5 2.5microns. microns. Ultrafine Ultrafine particles particles areare those those lessless thanthan 0.1 microns 0.1 microns

in size. in size. A A human nose human nose generally generally filters filters particles particles larger larger than than 10 microns. 10 microns. If a particle If a particle is is 15 15 less than1010microns, less than microns,it itcan can enter enter thethe respiratory respiratory system. system. If a If a particle particle is less is less thanthan 2.5 2.5

microns,itit can microns, canenter enterthethe alveoli.AnAn alveoli. ultrafine ultrafine particle particle cancan enter enter the the bloodstream bloodstream and and target organs. target organs.COVID-19 COVID-19 exists exists as ultrafine as ultrafine particles. particles.

Current research Current researchsuggests suggeststhat thatmost most respiratorytransmission respiratory transmissionofofCOVID-19 COVID-19 occurs occurs

20 20 throughlarge through largerespiratory respiratorydroplets. droplets. Such Such large large droplets droplets typically typically fallfall to to thethe ground ground after after

travelling approximately travelling sixfeet approximately six feetatatthe themost. most. Activity Activity such such as coughing as coughing and sneezing, and sneezing,

however, can however, can aerosolize aerosolize the the droplets droplets so that so that they they can travel can travel further further thereby thereby increasing increasing

the risk the risk of of transmission (i.e., where transmission (i.e., the droplets where the droplets are are carrying carrying COVID-19). COVID-19). When When

aerosolized, COVID-19 aerosolized, COVID-19 cancan travel travel upapproximately up to to approximately 20and 20 feet feetwill andremain will remain 25 25 suspendedininthe suspended theair air longer longer than than when whennot notaerosolized. aerosolized.InInaddition addition to to coughing coughingand and sneezing,respiratory sneezing, respiratory droplets droplets areare routinely routinely aerosolized aerosolized in practice in the the practice of dentistry. of dentistry.

Dentists who Dentists who utilizeaerosolization utilize aerosolization in their in their practice, practice, andand therefore therefore theirtheir staffstaff as well, as well,

are at are at aa high risk of high risk ofbecoming infected with becoming infected with COVID-19. Such COVID-19. Such dentists’patients dentists' patientsare are 30 30 likewise at high likewise at highrisk riskofofbecoming becoming infected infected from from the the dentist, dentist, as well as well as as their their dental dental

assistants in assistants in the the immediate areawhen immediate area when being being treated. treated. Most Most suchsuch risk risk results results fromfrom splatter and splatter anddroplet droplettransmission transmission to the to the mid-face mid-face of theofdentist the dentist and assistant and assistant and to and to the nasal the nasalarea areaofofthe thepatient. patient.

3

SUMMARY 16 May 2024

SUMMARY Systems andmethods Systems and methods enabled enabled by this by this disclosure disclosure advantageously advantageously solve solve deficiencies deficiencies

known known inin thecurrent the current state state of of the the art.InInone art. one embodiment embodiment enabled enabled by this by this disclosure, disclosure, a a systemisisenabled system enabled that that advantageously advantageously enhances enhances effectiveness effectiveness in the in reducing reducing risk ofthe risk of 5 5 transmitting COVID-19 transmitting COVID-19 byby mitigatingdirect, mitigating direct, indirect, indirect, and/or and/or other contact between other contact between individuals. InInone individuals. one embodiment enabledbyby embodiment enabled thisdisclosure, this disclosure, aasystem systemfor forminimizing minimizing risk risk of of transmission transmission may comprisea shield may comprise a shield component, component, a chamber a chamber component, component, a a 2024203262

suctioningcomponent suctioning component for suctioning for suctioning aerosol aerosol attached attached to the interior to the interior surface surface of said of said shield component shield outofof the component out the space spacebetween between saidshield said shieldcomponent componentandand an individual an individual

10 10 occupying occupying anan object object such such aschair as a a chair over over which which the shield the shield component component has beenhas been placed. placed.

According to According to an an embodiment embodiment contemplated contemplated by by thisthis disclosure,a asubstantially disclosure, substantially transparentshield transparent shieldcomponent component is operatively is operatively attached attached to a dolly to a dolly and isand is extendable extendable from from said dolly said dolly over overananindividual individualsuch such as,as, without without limitation, limitation, a patient a patient occupying occupying a dental a dental

15 15 chair, aa patient chair, patient occupying occupying a ahospital hospitalbed, bed,anan individualoccupying individual occupying a seat a seat in in an an automobile, or automobile, or an anindividual individual occupying occupyinga aseat seatininananaircraft. aircraft. According Accordingtotoanother another embodiment embodiment contemplated contemplated by this by this disclosure, disclosure, the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield

componentmay component may be be operatively operatively attached attached to to a ceilingand a ceiling and extend extend downward downward from from the the ceiling over ceiling an individual over an individual such suchas, as,without withoutlimitation, limitation,aapatient patientoccupying occupying a dental a dental chair. chair.

20 20 Accordingto According to an an aspect of the aspect of thepresent presentdisclosure, disclosure,the chamber the chambercomponent mayfurther component may further comprise diodes comprise diodes emitting emitting ultraviolet ultraviolet light. light. According According to another to another aspectaspect of the of the present present

disclosure, such disclosure, as, without such as, without limitation, limitation, where the substantially where the substantially transparent transparent shield shield componentis isoperatively component operativelyattached attachedto toa dental a dental chair,thethesubstantially chair, substantiallytransparent transparent shield component shield may component may further further comprise comprise magnifying magnifying material material and/or and/or supplemental supplemental

25 25 lighting to lighting to enhance visibility, such enhance visibility, suchas, as,without withoutlimitation, limitation,within withinthe themouth mouth of aofpatient a patient occupying occupying thethe dental dental chair. chair. According According to an to an aspect aspect of thisof this disclosure, disclosure, the suctioning the suctioning

componentmay component may comprise comprise a device a device capable capable of creating of creating a vacuum a vacuum andcomprise and may may comprise an air filter. an air filter.

30 30 Accordingto According to an an embodiment embodimentof of thethe present present disclosure,the disclosure, thesystem system maymay comprise comprise a a single integrated single integrated unit unit comprising comprising aa substantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component, component, aa chambercomponent, chamber component,andand a suctioning a suctioning component component as disclosed as disclosed herein. herein.

4

Accordingto to another another embodiment embodimentof of thethe present disclosure,the thesystem systemmaymay further 16 May 2024

According present disclosure, further

compriseaadocking comprise dockingstation station that that may serveas may serve asaasource sourceofof power powerfor forthe the components components of the of system. the system.

5 5 In In an aspectthere an aspect thereisisprovided provided a method a method for mitigating for mitigating risk risk of transmission of transmission of an of an

infectious disease infectious diseasecomprising: comprising: providingaasubstantially providing substantiallytransparent transparent shield shield component; component; 2024203262

providing aa chamber providing component; chamber component; and and

providingaasuctioning providing suctioningcomponent component for suctioning for suctioning aerosol aerosol attached attached to the to the 10 10 interior surface interior of said surface of said shield shield component componentout out of the of the space space between between said said shield shield componentand component and anan individualoccupying individual occupyingananobject objectover overwhich whichthe theshield shield component component has beenplaced. has been placed.

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shieldshield component component is operatively is operatively

attachedtotoa adolly attached dollyand andisisextendable extendablefromfrom saidsaid dollydolly over over the object. the object.

15 15 In In an embodiment an embodiment the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shieldshield component component is operatively is operatively

attachedtotoa achair attached chairand andis is extendable extendable overover an individual an individual occupying occupying the the chair. chair.

attachedtotoa aceiling attached ceilinginin aaroom room and and is is extendable extendable downward downward from from said said over celling celling an over an individual located individual locatedinin said saidroom. room.

20 20 In In an embodiment an embodiment the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shieldshield component component is operatively is operatively

attachedtotoaaseat attached seatininananaircraft aircraftand andisisextendable extendableoverover an individual an individual occupying occupying said said seat. seat.

attachedtotoa aseat attached seatininananautomobile automobile and and is extendable is extendable over over an an Individual Individual occupying occupying

25 25 said seat. said seat.

attachedtotoa abed attached bed and and is is extendable extendable over over an individual an individual occupying occupying said said bed. bed.

In In an an embodiment thechamber embodiment the chamber component component comprises comprises one one or or more more diodesdiodes emitting emitting

ultraviolet light. ultraviolet light.

5

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component comprisesa a 16 May 2024

embodiment the component comprises

magnifying aspect. magnifying aspect.

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the magnifying magnifying aspectaspect consists consists of more of one or one of or more of the following: the following:

magnifying glass, light magnifying glass, lightemitting emittingdiodes, and diodes, a camera and a cameracommunicatively communicatively connected to connected to

5 5 a display a display screen. screen.

In In an embodiment an embodiment saidsaid display display screen screen comprises comprises a liquidacrystal liquid crystal display.display. 2024203262

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component, the chamber component, the chamber component, andthe component, and thesuctioning suctioningcomponent component comprise comprise a single a single integrated integrated unit. unit.

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the integrated integrated unit unit further further comprises comprises storagestorage for replacement for replacement

10 10 substantially transparent substantially transparentshields. shields.

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the method method further further comprises, comprises, providing providing a dockinga station dockingfor station for providingelectrical providing electrical power powertotothe thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component, component, the the chambercomponent, chamber component,andand thethe suctioning suctioning component. component.

In In another aspect another aspect there there is is provided provided a method a method for mitigating for mitigating risktransmission risk of of transmission of an of an

15 15 infectious disease infectious diseasecomprising: comprising: providingaasingle providing singleintegrated integrated unitcomprising: unit comprising: a substantially a substantially transparent transparentshield shield component, component,

a chamber a component, and chamber component, and a suctioning a suctioningcomponent component for suctioning for suctioning aerosol aerosol attached attached to the to the interior interior surfacesurface 20 20 of said of substantially transparent said substantially transparentshield shield component component out out of theofspace the space betweenbetween said said shield shield component andananindividual component and individual occupying occupyingananobject object over over which whichthe the shield shield componenthas component has been been placed. placed.

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the integrated integrated unit unit is mountable is mountable to a wall. to a wall.

25 25

In In an an embodiment thechamber embodiment the chamber component component comprises comprises diodes diodes emitting emitting ultraviolet ultraviolet

light. light.

6

embodiment the component comprises

magnifying aspect. magnifying aspect.

5 5 magnifying glass, magnifying glass, lightemitting light emittingdiodes, diodes, andand a camera a camera communicatively communicatively attached attached to a to a display screen. display screen. 2024203262

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component is placed component is placed

approximately approximately 10 10 inches inches fromfrom the individual’s the individual's face.face.

10 10

In In another aspect another aspect there there is is provided provided a system a system for mitigating for mitigating risk risk of transmission of transmission of an of an

infectious disease infectious diseasecomprising: comprising: a substantially a substantially transparent transparentshield shield component; component;

a chamber a component: and chamber component: and 15 15 a suctioning a suctioningcomponent component for suctioning for suctioning aerosol aerosol attached attached to the to the interior interior surfacesurface of said of said shield shieldcomponent out of component out of the the space space between said shield between said shield component component

and an and an individual individual occupying occupying an object over an object over which which the the shield shieldcomponent has component has

beenplaced. been placed.

attachedtotoa adolly attached dollyand andisisextendable extendablefromfrom saidsaid dollydolly over over an object. an object.

attachedtotoa achair attached chairand andis is extendable extendable overover an individual an individual occupying occupying the the chair. chair. 25 25

attachedtotoa aceiling attached ceilinginin aaroom room and and is is extendable extendable downward downward from from said said over ceiling ceiling an over an individual located individual locatedinin said saidroom. room.

30 30 In In an embodiment an embodiment the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shieldshield component component is operatively is operatively

attachedtotoa aseat attached seatininananaircraft aircraftand andisisextendable extendableoverover an individual an individual occupying occupying said said seat. seat.

7

In In an embodiment the the substantially transparent shieldshield component is operatively 16 May 2024

an embodiment substantially transparent component is operatively

said seat. said seat.

5 5 In In an embodiment an embodiment the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shieldshield component component is operatively is operatively

attachedtotoa abed attached bed and and is is extendable extendable over over an individual an individual occupying occupying said said bed. bed. 2024203262

In In an an embodiment thechamber embodiment the chamber component component further further comprises comprises one one or more or more diodes diodes

emitting ultraviolet light. emitting ultraviolet light.

10 10

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component further comprises component further comprises

magnifying material. magnifying material.

In In an an embodiment thesuctioning embodiment the suctioningcomponent component comprises comprises a device a device capable capable of creating of creating

15 15 a vacuum, a vacuum, wherein wherein saidsaid device device comprises comprises an air an air filter. filter.

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the system system further further comprises comprises a light asource light source located located on an interior on an interior

surfaceofofthe surface thesubstantially substantiallytransparent transparent shield shield component. component.

20 20 In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component, the chamber component, the chamber component, andthe component, and thesuctioning suctioningcomponent component comprise comprise a single a single integrated integrated unit. unit.

substantially transparent substantially transparentshields. shields. 25 25

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the system system further further comprises comprises a docking a docking station station for for providing providing

electrical power electrical tothe power to thesystem. system.

In In another aspectthere another aspect there is is provided provided a system a system for mitigating for mitigating risk risk of transmission of transmission of an of an

30 30 infectious disease infectious diseasecomprising: comprising: a single a single integrated integratedunit unitcomprising: comprising: a substantially a substantially transparent transparentshield shield component, component,

a chamber a component, and chamber component, and

8

a suctioning suctioningcomponent component for suctioning aerosol attached to the to the interior 16 May 2024

a for suctioning aerosol attached interior

surfaceofofsaid surface saidsubstantially substantiallytransparent transparent shield shield component component out ofout the of the spacebetween space betweensaid saidshield shieldcomponent componentandand an an individualoccupying individual occupying an an

object over object over which which the the shield shieldcomponent hasbeen component has beenplaced. placed. 5 5

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the integrated integrated unit unit is mountable is mountable to a wall. to a wall. 2024203262

light. light.

10 10

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component comprises component comprises

magnifying material. magnifying material.

In In an embodiment an embodiment the the system system further further comprises comprises lightinglighting located located on an interior on an interior

15 15 surfaceofofthe surface thesubstantially substantiallytransparent transparent shield shield component. component.

In In an an embodiment thesystem embodiment the systemfurther furthercomprises comprisesa adocking dockingstation stationwherein whereinthe the dockingstation docking stationproviders providers power power to the to the system. system.

20 20 In In another aspect another aspect there there is is provided provided a system a system for mitigating for mitigating risk risk of transmission of transmission of an of an

a chamber a component: and chamber component: and a suctioning a suctioningcomponent component for suctioning for suctioning aerosol aerosol attached attached to the to the interior interior surfacesurface 25 25 of said of said shield shieldcomponent out of component out of the the space space between said shield between said shield component component

and an and an individual individual occupying occupying a a chair chair over over which which the the shield shieldcomponent has component has

beenplaced. been placed.

30 30 attachedtotothe attached thechair chairbybya amechanical mechanical arm. arm.

In In an an embodiment saidmechanical embodiment said mechanical armarm is is collapsibleand collapsible andextendable. extendable.

9

In In an an embodiment saidsubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component further comprises 16 May 2024

embodiment said component further comprises

a camera a communicatively camera communicatively connected connected to to a displayscreen. a display screen.

In In an embodiment an embodiment saidsaid display display screen screen is located is located withinwithin the substantially the substantially transparent transparent

5 5 shield component. shield component.

In In an embodiment an embodiment saidsaid display display screen screen comprises comprises a liquidacrystal liquid crystal display display screen. screen. 2024203262

In In an an embodiment thesuctioning embodiment the suctioningcomponent component comprises comprises a hose a hose connected connected to the to the

10 10 substantially transparent substantially transparentshield shield component. component.

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component comprisesa adental component comprises dental tray. tray.

15 15 In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component is connected component is to aa connected to

dental lamp. dental lamp.

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component comprisesglass component comprises glassoror plastic. plastic.

20 20

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component, the chamber component, the chamber component,and component, andthe thesuctioning suctioningcomponent, component, comprise comprise a single a single integratedunit. integrated unit.

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component is between component is between 25 25 approximately approximately four four feet feet and and approximately approximately four feet, four feet, six inches six inches in length. in length.

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component comprisesmaterial component comprises material on each on eachofofthe theleft-hand left-hand side side andand the the right-hand right-hand side side of shield of the the shield component component

extendingfrom extending from thethe surface surface of the of the shield shield component component toward toward thesochair the chair as toso at as to at least least 30 30 partially partially enclose anoccupant enclose an occupantof of thethe chair. chair.

In In an an embodiment themechanical embodiment the mechanical arm arm is:is:

operativelyattached operatively attachedto to a a ceiling;and ceiling; and extends downward extends downward from from said said ceiling; ceiling;

10

and wherein whereinsaid said arm armisis connected connectedto, to, and and extends extendsalongside, alongside, aa dental dental lamp. lamp. 16 May 2024

and

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component compriseslight component comprises light emitting diodes emitting diodesexuding exuding light light toward toward the the interior interior of of thethe individual’s individual's mouth. mouth.

5 5

In In an embodiment an embodiment saidsaid integrated integrated unit unit is mountable is mountable to a wall. to a wall. 2024203262

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component comprisesplastic component comprises plastic andwherein and wherein said said plastic plastic is is selected selected from from the the group group consisting consisting of: polymethyl of: polymethyl

10 10 methacrylate,cellulose methacrylate, cellulose acetate acetate butyrate, butyrate, polycarbonate, polycarbonate, and glycol and glycol modified modified

polyethyleneterephthalate. polyethylene terephthalate.

In In an an embodiment thesubstantially embodiment the substantially transparent transparent shield shield component further comprises: component further comprises:

an aperture an apertureonon each each of the of the left-hand left-hand and and right-hand right-hand sides sides of theof the substantially substantially

15 15 transparentshield transparent shieldcomponent component extending extending from from the the surface surface of the of the shield shield componenttoward component toward thechair; the chair;and and wherein said wherein said apertures apertures are are between betweenapproximately approximately6 6inches inchesand and approximately approximately 99 inches inches in in height height and and between approximately7.5 between approximately 7.5inches inchesand and approximately approximately 10 10 inches inches in width. in width.

20 20

infectious disease infectious diseasecomprising: comprising: a substantially a substantially transparent transparentshield shield component: component:

a chamber a component; and chamber component; and 25 25 a suctioning a suctioningcomponent component for suctioning for suctioning aerosol aerosol attached attached to the to the interior interior surfacesurface of said of said shield shieldcomponent out of component out of the the space space between said shield between said shield component component

andananindividual and individualoccupying occupying a seat a seat in aircraft in an an aircraft overover which which the shield the shield

componenthas component has been been placed; placed;

whereinthe wherein thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component is operatively is operatively

30 30 attachedtotosaid attached saidseat; seat;and and wherein said wherein said suctioning suctioning component comprises component comprises a hose a hose extending extending from from said said

substantially transparent substantially transparentshield shield component component to a ventilation to a ventilation system system existing existing

within the aircraft. within the aircraft.

11

In In an an embodiment thesystem systemfurther furthercomprises comprisesa arelease releasemechanism mechanismfor for detaching 16 May 2024

embodiment the detaching

the substantially the substantiallytransparent transparent shield shield component component from from the the seat. seat.

BRIEF BRIEF DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION OF OF THE THEDRAWINGS DRAWINGS 5 5 Figure Figure 1A 1A is aa perspective is perspective view of aa system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

disclosure and disclosure whereinthe and wherein thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component 2024203262

is attached is to the attached to thechair chairbybyhook-and-loop hook-and-loop fasteners. fasteners.

Figure Figure 1 1 B B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

10 10 is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure and wherein and whereinthe thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shieldcomponent is attached component is attached

to the to chair by the chair by hook-and-loop hook-and-loop fasteners. fasteners.

Figure Figure 1 1 C C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

15 15 disclosure and disclosure whereinthe and wherein thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component

Figure Figure 2A 2A is aa perspective is perspective view of a system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

disclosure and disclosure whereinthe and wherein thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component

20 20 is attached is tothe attached to thedental dentalchair chair by by a rotatable a rotatable arm arm attached attached to the to the head head rest of rest of the the dental chair. dental chair.

Figure Figure 2B 2B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure and wherein and whereinthe thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shieldcomponent is attached component is attached

25 25 to the to the dental dentalchair chairbyby a rotatable a rotatable arm arm attached attached to theto therest head headof rest the of the dental chair. dental chair.

Figure Figure 2C 2C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

30 30 is attached is attached totothe thedental dental chair chair by by a rotatable a rotatable arm arm attached attached to the to the head head rest of rest of the the dental chair. dental chair.

12

Figure Figure 3A is aa perspective perspective view of aa system of the the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a 16 May 2024

3A is view of system of

patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

is attached is to the attached to the dental dentalchair chairbybyaarotatable rotatablearm arm attached attached to the to the arm arm rest rest

5 5 of the of dental chair. the dental chair.

Figure Figure 3B 3B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure 2024203262

is contemplated by

and wherein and whereinthe thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shieldcomponent is attached component is attached

to the to the dental dental chair chair by by a a rotatable rotatable arm attached to arm attached to the the arm armrest rest of of the the 10 10 dental chair. dental chair.

Figure Figure 3C 3C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

15 15 of the of dental chair. the dental chair.

Figure Figure 4A 4A is aa perspective is perspective view of aa system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

is integrated is into aa dental integrated into dentaltray. tray.

20 20 Figure Figure 4B 4B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure andwherein and wherein the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component is integrated is integrated

into a dental tray. into a dental tray.

Figure Figure 4C 4C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a 25 25 patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

is integrated is into aa dental integrated into dentaltray. tray.

Figure Figure 5A 5A is aa perspective is perspective view view of of aa system of the system of the present disclosure wherein present disclosure wherein aa

13

disclosureand andwherein wherein thethe components of the of the system are integrated into 16 May 2024

disclosure components system are integrated into

a single a single unit unit attachable attachabletotothe thebase baseof of thethe dental dental chair. chair.

Figure Figure 5B 5B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure 5 5 and wherein and whereinthe thecomponents componentsof of thethe system system areare integrated integrated intoa asingle into single unit attachable unit tothe attachable to thebase baseofof the the dental dental chair. chair. 2024203262

Figure Figure 5C 5C is aa perspective is viewofofa asubstantially perspective view substantiallytransparent transparent shield shield component component as as contemplatedbybythe contemplated thepresent presentdisclosure disclosurewherein wherein theshield the shieldcomponent component comprisesremovable comprises removable substantiallytransparent substantially transparent sheets. sheets.

10 10 Figure Figure 6A 6A is aa perspective is perspective view of aa system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

extendsover extends overthe thepatient patientfrom from a ceiling a ceiling over over top top of of the the patient patient and and extends extends

alongsideananexisting alongside existing dental dental lamp. lamp.

15 15 Figure Figure 6B 6B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure and wherein and whereinthe thesubstantially substantiallytransparent transparentshield shieldcomponent component extends extends

over the over the patient patient from froma aceiling ceiling over overtop topofofthe thepatient patientand and extends extends

alongsideananexisting alongside existing dental dental lamp. lamp.

20 20 Figure Figure 6C 6C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

extendsover extends overthe thepatient patientfrom from a ceilingover a ceiling over top top of of thepatient the patient and and extends extends

alongsideananexisting alongside existing dental dental lamp. lamp.

25 25 Figure Figure 7A 7A is aa perspective is perspective view of aa system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

is mounted is mounted toto and and extends extends downward downward from a from a ceiling ceiling over topover of atop of a patient patient occupying occupying thethe dental dental chair chair wherein wherein the substantially the substantially transparent transparent shield shield 30 30 component includes component includes LED LED lighting, lighting, magnifying magnifying capability, capability, and, optionally, and, optionally,

14

a screen screen capable capableofof delivering delivering entertainment or other other media content to to 16 May 2024

a entertainment or media content

the patient. the patient.

Figure Figure 7B 7B is aa perspective is viewofofa asubstantially perspective view substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component as as depictedininFigure depicted Figure7A. 7A.

5 5 Figure Figure 8A 8A is aa perspective is perspective view of aa system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a patient patient is is occupying occupying aa dental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present 2024203262

is connected is connected toto and and extends extends fromfrom a rotatable a rotatable freestanding freestanding base. base.

Figure Figure 8B 8B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

10 10 is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure andwherein and wherein the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component is connected is connected

to and to extends and extends from from a rotatable a rotatable freestanding freestanding base.base.

Figure Figure 8C 8C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a patient is patient is occupying occupying aa dental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

Figure Figure 9A 9A is aa perspective is perspective view of aa system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein aa patient patient is is occupying occupying aa dental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

20 20 is connected is to and connected to and extends from aa rotatable extends from rotatable freestanding freestanding base base wherein wherein

the height the heightofof said saidbase baseisisadjustable adjustable using using a handle. a handle.

Figure Figure 9B 9B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure andwherein and wherein the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component is connected is connected

25 25 to and to extends and extends from from a rotatable a rotatable freestanding freestanding base base wherein wherein theofheight the height of said base said baseisisadjustable adjustable using using a handle. a handle.

Figure Figure 9C 9C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

15

is connected to and and extends from aa rotatable rotatable freestanding freestanding base base wherein 16 May 2024

is connected to extends from wherein

Figure Figure 10A 10A is isa aperspective perspectiveview view of of a a system system of of thethe present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a

5 5 disclosure and disclosure andwherein whereinthethe suctioning suctioning component component ofsystem of the the system is is mounted mounted to to a wall a wall adjacent adjacent to atodental a dental chair chair occupied occupied by a patient. by a patient. 2024203262

Figure Figure 10B 10B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure and wherein and whereinthe thesuctioning suctioningcomponent componentof of thethe system system is mounted is mounted to a to a 10 10 wall adjacent wall adjacenttotoaadental dentalchair chairoccupied occupied by aby a patient. patient.

Figure Figure 10C 10C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

disclosure and disclosure andwherein whereinthethe suctioning suctioning component component ofsystem of the the system is is mounted mounted to to a wall a wall adjacent adjacent to atodental a dental chair chair occupied occupied by a patient. by a patient.

15 15 Figure Figure 11A 11A is isa aperspective perspectiveview view of of a a system system of of thethe present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a

disclosureand disclosure andwherein wherein thethe components components of the of the system system are integrated are integrated into into a single unit. a single unit.

Figure 11isB a is Figure 11 a view top top view plan plan of a system of a system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

20 20 is occupying is occupying aa dental dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure and wherein and whereinthe thecomponents componentsof of thethe system system areare integrated integrated intoa asingle into single unit. unit.

Figure 11C Cis is Figure 11 a side a side elevation elevation viewview of a of a system system of theof the present present disclosure disclosure wherein a wherein a

25 25 disclosureand disclosure andwherein wherein thethe components components of the of the system system are integrated are integrated into into a single unit. a single unit.

Figure Figure 12A 12A is aa perspective is perspective view of aa system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

disclosure, wherein disclosure, wherein the the components components ofofthe thesystem systemare areintegrated integratedinto into aa

16

single unit, unit, and whereinthethe system further comprises a docking station 16 May 2024

single and wherein system further comprises a docking station

for supplying for power supplying power to to said said integrated integrated unit. unit.

Figure Figure 12B 12B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying is a dental occupying a dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by the present presentdisclosure, disclosure, 5 5 whereinthe wherein thecomponents components of theofsystem the system are integrated are integrated into aunit, into a single single unit, andwherein and wherein the the system system further further comprises comprises a docking a docking stationstation for supplying for supplying

powertotosaid saidintegrated integrated unit. 2024203262

power unit.

Figure Figure 12C 12C is isa aside sideelevation elevation view viewof of aa system systemof of the the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein aa

10 10 disclosure, wherein disclosure, wherein the the components components ofofthe thesystem systemare areintegrated integratedinto into aa single unit, single unit, and wherein and wherein thethe system system further further comprises comprises a docking a docking station station for supplying for power supplying power to to said said integrated integrated unit. unit.

Figure Figure 13A 13A is aa perspective is perspective view of aa system view of of the system of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein whereina a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

15 15 disclosure, wherein disclosure, wherein the the components components ofofthe thesystem systemare areintegrated integratedinto into aa unit mountable unit mountable onona a wall,and wall, and wherein wherein the the substantially substantially transparent transparent

shield component shield component extends extends from from saidvia said unit unita via a collapsible collapsible arm. arm.

Figure Figure 13B 13B is aa top is top plan plan view of aa system view of systemofofthe thepresent present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a patient a patient

is occupying is a dental occupying a dental chair chair as as contemplated bythe contemplated by the present presentdisclosure, disclosure, 20 20 wherein the wherein the components componentsofofthe thesystem systemareareintegrated integratedinto into aaunit unit mountableonona awall, mountable wall,and andwherein wherein thethe substantiallytransparent substantially transparentshield shield component component extends extends from from said via said unit unita via a collapsible collapsible arm. arm.

Figure Figure 13C 13C is aa side is elevationview side elevation viewofofa asystem system of the of the present present disclosure disclosure wherein wherein a a patient is patient is occupying occupying aadental dentalchair chairasascontemplated contemplated by the by the present present

25 25 disclosure, wherein disclosure, wherein the the components components ofofthe thesystem systemare areintegrated integratedinto into aa unit mountable unit mountable onona a wall,and wall, and wherein wherein the the substantially substantially transparent transparent

Figure Figure 14A 14A is isa aperspective perspectiveview view of of a a system system according according to the to the present present disclosure disclosure

wherein the wherein the object object contemplated contemplatedbybythe thesystem systemcomprises comprises a seat a seat in in anan

30 30 aircraft. aircraft.

17

Figure Figure 14B 14B isisaaside side elevation elevation view view of of aa system accordingtoto the the present present disclosure disclosure 16 May 2024

system according

aircraft. aircraft.

5 5 DETAILED DETAILED DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION The following The following disclosure disclosure is is provided to describe provided to describe various various embodiments embodiments of of a system a system

intended to to minimize minimizethe therisk risk of of transmission transmissionofof COVID-19 COVID-19and and other viruses and 2024203262

intended other viruses and

infectious agents infectious that may agents that maybebe transmitted transmitted between between individuals individuals in close in close physical physical

proximity and/or proximity and/or who mayinteract who may interact with with common common surfaces surfaces or or objects.Skilled objects. Skilledartisans artisans 10 10 will appreciate will appreciateadditional additionalembodiments anduses embodiments and usesofofthe the systems systemsthat thatextend extendbeyond beyond the examples the examples of of this this disclosure. disclosure. Terms Terms included included by anyby anyare claim claim areinterpreted to be to be interpreted as as defined within defined within this this disclosure. disclosure. Singular Singular forms should be forms should beread readtotocontemplate contemplate andand

discloseplural disclose plural alternatives. alternatives.Similarly, Similarly, plural plural forms formsshould shouldbe be read read to contemplate to contemplate and and disclosesingular disclose singularalternatives. alternatives.Conjunctions Conjunctions should should be read be read as inclusive as inclusive except except where where 15 15 stated otherwise. stated otherwise.

Expressions such Expressions such as “at as "at least least one one of A,ofB,A,and B, C" and C” should should be readbe to read permittoany permit of A,any of A,

B, or B, or CCsingularly singularlyororinincombination combination withwith the remaining the remaining elements. elements. Additionally, Additionally, such such groups may groups mayinclude includemultiple multiple instances instancesof of one oneor or more moreelements elementsininthat thatgroup, group,which which maybebeincluded may includedwith withother other elements elementsofofthe the group. group.All All numbers, measurements, numbers, measurements, andand

20 20 values are values are given given as as approximations unlessexpressly approximations unless expresslystated stated otherwise. otherwise.

Termsandand Terms expressions expressions used used throughout throughout this disclosure this disclosure are are to be to be interpreted interpreted broadly. broadly. Termsare Terms areintended intendedtotobebeunderstood understood respective respective to to thethe definitionsprovided definitions providedbyby this this

specification. Technical specification. Technical dictionaries dictionariesand and common meanings common meanings understood understood within within the the applicable art applicable art are are intended to supplement intended to thesedefinitions. supplement these definitions. In In instances wherenono instances where

25 25 suitable definition suitable definition can canbebedetermined determined from from the specification the specification or technical or technical dictionaries, dictionaries,

such terms such termsshould shouldbebe understood understood according according to their to their plain plain and and common common meaning. meaning.

However, anydefinitions However, any definitionsprovided providedbybythethespecification specificationwill will govern governabove aboveallallother other sources. sources.

Variousobjects, Various objects,features, features, aspects, aspects, and and advantages advantages described described by this disclosure by this disclosure will will 30 30 become more become more apparent apparent from from the following the following detailed detailed description, description, alongthewith the along with

accompanying accompanying drawings. drawings.

18

For the purpose purpose of of clearly clearly describing describingthe thecomponents and features features discussed discussed 16 May 2024

For the components and throughout this throughout this disclosure, disclosure, some frequently used some frequently termswill used terms will now bedefined, now be defined, without without limitation. The limitation. term"COVID-19," The term “COVID-19,” asisit is as it used used throughout throughout this this disclosure, disclosure, is defined is defined as as an infectious an infectious disease causedbybysevere disease caused severe acute acute respiratory respiratory syndrome syndrome coronavirus coronavirus 2 2 5 5 (SARS-CoV-2). The The (SARS-CoV-2). term term “aerosol,” "aerosol," as it as it is used is used throughout throughout this disclosure, this disclosure, is defined is defined

as aa suspension as suspension of of fine fine solidparticles solid particlesororliquid liquiddroplets dropletsininair airor or another anothergas. gas. The The term term

“universalmount," "universal mount,”as as it it isisused used throughout throughout this this disclosure, disclosure, is defined is defined as a universal as a universal 2024203262

clamptogether clamp togetherwith with one oneorormore more compatible compatible mounts. mounts. The The term term “individual,” "individual," as as it it isis

used throughoutthis used throughout this disclosure, disclosure, should shouldnot notbebeinterpreted interpretedinin any anylimiting limiting manner, manner, 10 10 should bebeinterpreted should interpretedbroadly, broadly,and and should should be interpreted, be interpreted, without without limitation, limitation, as as synonymous synonymous with"subject." with “subject.”

Variousaspects Various aspectsof of thethe disclosure disclosure willwill nownow be described be described in detail, in detail, without without limitation. limitation. In In the following the followingdisclosure, disclosure,systems systemsfor for minimizing minimizing risk,risk, suchsuch asto as due due to individuals’ individuals' close close

physical proximity physical proximity to to one another, of one another, of transmission transmission of of COVID-19 COVID-19 willbebe will discussed. discussed.

15 15 Thoseofofskill Those skill in in the the art art will willappreciate that alternative appreciate that alternative labelling labelling of of the the systems systems may may be be provided, which provided, whichisis consistent consistent with with the thescope scopeandand spiritofofthis spirit thisdisclosure. disclosure. Skilled Skilled readers should readers should notnot view view the the inclusion inclusion of any of any alternative alternative labels labels as limiting as limiting in way. in any any way.

Referring Referring now to Figures now to Figures 1-13, 1-13, systems systemsenabled enabledbybythis thisdisclosure disclosure will will be be discussed discussed

in greater in detail. The greater detail. substantiallytransparent The substantially transparent shield shield component component contemplated contemplated by the by the 20 20 present disclosure 100, present disclosure 100, 200, 200, 300, 300, 400, 400, 500, 500, 600, 600,700, 700,800, 800,900, 900,1000, 1000,1100, 1100, 1200, 1200,

1300, 1400may 1300, 1400 maybebe operativelyattached operatively attachedtotoany anynumber number of of objects objects including,without including, without limitation, a chair (such as, without limitation, a chair in a dentist’s office 101, 201, 301, limitation, a chair (such as, without limitation, a chair in a dentist's office 101, 201, 301,

401 ,, 501 401 501 ,, 701 701 ,, 801 801 ,, 901 901 ,, 1001, 1101, 1201, 1001, 1101, 1201,1301), 1301),aahospital hospital bed, bed, aa seat seat in in an an automobile, aa seat automobile, seatininananaircraft aircraft 1401, 1401,a afreestanding freestanding base base 902,902, which which may may be be 25 25 adjustable in adjustable in height height and rotatable 360 and rotatable degrees around 360 degrees arounda ahorizontal horizontalaxis, axis, a a transportable dolly transportable dolly 804, 804,orora aceiling ceiling702. 702. The The substantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield

componentmay component may be be attached attached to to saidobjects said objectsbybyany anysuitable suitableconnecting connectingmeans, means, which which

means would means would be be readilyappreciated readily appreciated by by those those skilledininthe skilled theart. art. By By way wayofofexample example only, as only, as depicted depictedininFigure Figure 1 the 1 , , thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component may be may be 30 30 connected connected to to the the back back ofchair of a a chair by hook-and-loop by hook-and-loop fasteners fasteners 104. Figures 104. Figures 1-13 1-13 depict depict embodimentscontemplated embodiments contemplatedbybythethe present present disclosurewhere disclosure where thethe substantially substantially

19

transparentshield shieldcomponent component extends over aover a patient occupying a chair 201,101, 301,201, 301, 16 May 2024

transparent extends patient occupying a chair 101,

401,501, 401, 501,701, 701,801, 801, 901, 901, 1001, 1001, 1101, 1101, 1201,1201, 1301, 1301, for example, for example, in a dentist’s in a dentist's office. office.

Without limitation, Without limitation, the the substantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component ofofthe thepresent present disclosuremay disclosure maybe be operatively operatively attached attached to objects to objects of theof the nature nature contemplated contemplated by this by this 5 5 disclosurebybyananarm disclosure arm 102, 102, 202, 202, 302,302, 402,402, 502, 502, 601, 601, 703,1002, 703, 802, 802, 1103, 1002,1203, 1103, 1203, 1302. 1302. Thearm The arm may may be rotatable, be rotatable, including, including, without without limitation, limitation, rotatable rotatable around around theofhead the head of a a patient patient occupying occupying a adentist's dentist’s chair chairtotowhich whichthethe substantiallytransparent transparent shield 2024203262

substantially shield

component,through component, through said said arm, arm, maymay be attached. be attached. Themay The arm armbemay be collapsible collapsible and and extendable. The extendable. Thesubstantially substantially transparent shield component transparent shield may component may be be attached attached to to thethe

10 10 chair or chair or other otherobject objectvia viaother othersuitable suitablemeans means as will as will be readily be readily appreciated appreciated by by those those skilled in the art. skilled in the art.

Thearm The arm may may be attached be attached to thetodentist's the dentist’s chairchair or other or other objectobject by anyby any suitable suitable means, means, whichmeans which means would would be readily be readily appreciated appreciated by theartisan. by the skilled skilled Without artisan.limitation, Without limitation, said attachment said maybebebybymeans attachment may meansof of a a universalmount universal mount 405. 405.

15 15 Thesubstantially The substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component of of thethe present present disclosure disclosure maymay be be curved.The curved. Thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component of the of the present present disclosure disclosure may may compriseprotrusions comprise protrusions to to accommodate accommodate the curvature the curvature of an individual’s of an individual's face. face.

Thesubstantially The substantially transparent transparent shield shield component component of of thethe present present disclosure disclosure maymay be be removable.The removable. Thesubstantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component ofthe component of the present present disclosure disclosure 20 20 maybe may bedisposable. disposable.

Wherethe Where thesubstantially substantially transparent transparentshield shield component componentof of thethe present present disclosure disclosure is is attachedtotoa achair attached chairsuch suchas,as, without without limitation, limitation, a chair a chair forfor patients patients in in a dentist’s a dentist's office, office,

the substantially the substantiallytransparent transparentshield shieldcomponent component may beso may be soattached attachedat at any any number numberofof locations on locations onthe thechair, chair,including, including,without without limitation,the limitation, theback back of of thethe chair chair 103, 103, the the arm arm 25 25 rest of rest of the the chair chair 303, or the 303, or the head headrest restofofthe thechair chair203. 203.

Referring nowtoto Figures Referring now Figures8A-8C, 8A-8C,where where thethe object object is is a dolly,the a dolly, thedolly dollymay may further further

comprisean comprise anupward upward extending extending aspect aspect 803803 thatthat maymay be adjusted be adjusted in height in height and and may may rotate around rotate arounda ahorizonal horizonal axis.TheThe axis. base base of the of the dolly dolly may may existexist in any in any number number of forms, of forms,

including, without including, withoutlimitation, limitation, aa tripod tripod 804. 804. According Accordingto to such such an an embodiment, embodiment, the the base base 30 30 of the of tripod may the tripod furtherbebefoldable. may further foldable.

20

Thesuctioning suctioning component component of of thesystems systems of of thepresent present disclosuremay may comprise a 16 May 2024

The the the disclosure comprise a

freestandingunit freestanding unit304, 304,403, 403, 805, 805, 903, 903, 1102, 1102, 12021202 or mayorbe may be mountable mountable to a wall to a wall 1003. 1003. Thesuctioning The suctioning component component may may comprise comprise a device a device capable capable of suctioning of suctioning andand thereby thereby

creatingaa vacuum. creating vacuum. TheThe suctioning suctioning component component may comprise, may comprise, without limitation, without limitation, a High a High 5 5 Energy ParticularAirAirfilter Energy Particular filter (i.e., (i.e., aaΉΕΡΑ" filter), aacarbon "HEPA" filter), filter, and/or carbon filter, and/or another typeofof another type

filter that filter thatwould beappreciated would be appreciatedby by those those of skill of skill in the in the art art after after having having the benefit the benefit of of this disclosure. this disclosure. 2024203262

As reflected As reflected in in Figures Figures 3A-3C, the suctioning 3A-3C, the suctioning component may component may comprise comprise a hose a hose 305 305 connected connected to to the the shield shield component component 300 of300 the of the system system of the present of the present disclosure. disclosure.

10 10 Referring now Referring now toto Figures Figures 4A-4C, 4A-4C, the substantially the substantially transparent transparent shieldshield component component of the of the systemofofthe system thepresent presentdisclosure disclosuremaymay formform a dental a dental tray.tray. According According to an to such such an embodiment, embodiment, the the dental dental traytray may may further further comprise comprise light emitting light emitting diodesdiodes locatedlocated around around the frame the frameofofthethe tray tray to to enhance enhance visibility visibility of aof a dentist dentist performing performing dental dental work on work a on a patient occupying patient occupying the the dental dental chair. chair. According According to such to such an embodiment, an embodiment, the substantially the substantially

15 15 transparent shield transparent shield component/dental tray may component/dental tray maybebereplaceable. replaceable.According Accordingto to such such an an

embodiment,thethe embodiment, substantiallytransparent substantially transparent shield shield component/dental component/dental tray tray may may be be washable.According washable. Accordingto tosuch such an an embodiment, embodiment, the substantially the substantially transparent transparent shield shield

component/dentaltray component/dental traymay maybebeconnected connected to to the the arm arm of of thedental the dentalchair chairby bymeans means of, of,

withoutlimitation, without limitation, an an extendable/collapsible extendable/collapsible connecting connecting aspect aspect comprising comprising a ball a ball joint joint 20 20 404operatively 404 operativelyattached attachedto to thethe substantially substantially transparent transparent shield shield component/dental component/dental tray. tray.

Referring nowtotoFigures Referring now Figures6A-6C 6A-6C and and 7A-7B, 7A-7B, the substantially the substantially transparent transparent shieldshield

component component of the of the present present disclosure disclosure may may be be operatively operatively attachedattached to a 702 to a ceiling ceiling and 702 and mayextend may extenddownward downward from from saidsaid ceiling.According ceiling. According to to such such embodiment, embodiment, in the in the case case

of aa dentist's of office, the dentist’s office, arm601 the arm 601 , 703 , 703 associated associated withsubstantially with the the substantially transparent transparent

25 25 shield component shield may component may be be connected connected to, and to, and extend extend alongside, alongside, a dental a dental lamp lamp 602. 602. According to According to such such an anembodiment, embodiment, thethe armarm associated associated withwith the the substantially substantially transparent shield transparent shield component may component may be be connected connected to the to the dental dental lamplamp viauniversal via a a universal mount603. mount 603.

Thesystem The systemof of thethe present present disclosure disclosure may comprise may comprise a fully integrated a fully integrated unit 503,unit 503, 1102, 1102, 30 30 1202, 1303,comprising 1202, 1303, comprisingthethe substantiallytransparent substantially transparentshield shieldcomponent, component, chamber chamber

component,and component, and suctioningcomponent. suctioning component. Said Said fully fully integratedunit integrated unitmay maybebe mountable mountable

21

on aa wall wall 1003. 1003. Said Saidintegrated integrated unit unit may mayfurther further comprise comprisestorage storagefor forreplacement replacement 16 May 2024

on

substantially transparent substantially transparentshields shields 1104. 1104.

Accordingtoto an According anembodiment embodiment of the of the present present disclosure, disclosure, the the system system of present of the the present disclosure may disclosure drawupon may draw upona adocking dockingapparatus apparatus 1204 1204 forfor power. power.

5 5 Thesubstantially The substantiallytransparent transparent shield shield component component may bemay be comprised comprised of any substantially of any substantially

transparentsolid transparent solidmaterial material such such as, as, without without limitation, limitation, certain certain types types of plastic of plastic or clear or clear 2024203262

glass. In glass. Inone one embodiment, the shield embodiment, the shield component may component may be be constructed constructed using using materials materials

that are that not toxic are not toxic to to human beings.TheThe human beings. plastics plastics thatmaymay that be suitable be suitable for for use use in in preparing the preparing the shield shield component component may may comprise, comprise, without without limitation, polymethyl limitation, polymethyl 10 10 methacrylate, cellulose methacrylate, cellulose acetate butyrate, polycarbonate, acetate butyrate, polycarbonate, or glycol modified or glycol modified polyethylene terephthalate. polyethylene terephthalate. Preferably, Preferably,the theshield shieldcomponent component may becomprised may be comprisedofofa a light-weight materialtotofacilitate light-weight material facilitate contracting contractingand and expanding expanding ofshield of the the shield component component

towardororaway toward away from from the the front front surface surface of object of the the object andpatient and the the patient or individual or other other individual occupying occupying the the object. object.

15 15 Whenininuse, When use,the theshield shieldcomponent componentis is intended intended to to be be positioned positioned close close to to but but notinin not

contactwith contact withananindividual individualsitting sittingin in the the chair chairor or otherwise otherwise occupying occupying the the object. object.

Preferably, saiddistance Preferably, said distancebetween between the the interior interior portion portion of the of the shield shield component component and theand the

individual occupying individual occupying thethe object object may may be approximately be approximately one one inch, inch,limitation. without without limitation. In In anotherpreferred another preferred embodiment, embodiment, said said distance distance between between the interior the interior portion portion of the of the shield shield 20 20 componentand component and theindividual the individualoccupying occupyingthe theobject object may maybebeapproximately approximately teninches, ten inches, without limitation. without limitation. Other distancesbetween Other distances between the the interior interior surface surface of shield of the the shield component component andand the the individual individual that that allow allow for for the the individual individual remaining remaining sufficiently sufficiently

comfortableareare comfortable intended intended to included to be be included within within the scope the scope of thisof this disclosure, disclosure, as as would would be appreciated be appreciatedby by those those having having skillskill in the in the art. art.

25 25 Theshield The shield component component ofofthe thepresent presentdisclosure disclosuremay may existininvirtually exist virtually any any number of number of

dimensions. In dimensions. In one oneillustrative illustrative embodiment, the shield embodiment, the shield component componentmaymay be be approximately three approximately threefeet feetto to approximately approximately six feet six feet in length, in length, preferably preferably from from approximately four feet approximately four feet totoapproximately approximatelyfour fourfeet, feet,sixsixinches inches in in length, length, without without

limitation. The limitation. The shield shield component may component may preferably preferably be constructed be constructed of a of a lightweight lightweight

30 30 material to material to facilitate facilitate movement movement of of thethe shield shield toward toward and from and away awaythefrom theand object object an and an individual occupying individual said object. occupying said object. The shield component The shield may component may be be approximately approximately one one

22

foot, six six inches, to approximately approximately three feetfeet in width, preferably from approximately 16 May 2024

foot, inches, to three in width, preferably from approximately

twofeet two feet to to approximately approximately twotwo feet, feet, sixsix inches inches in width, in width, without without limitation. limitation.

Thesubstantially The substantially transparent shield component transparent shield may component may contain contain material material on on each each sideside

that extends that from the extends from thesurface surfaceofofthe theshield shield component component toward toward the the object object so so as as to to 5 5 partially partially or or fully fullyenclose anoccupant enclose an occupant of the of the object. object. SuchSuch embodiments embodiments of the shield of the shield

component component ofofthe thepresent presentdisclosure disclosuremay mayfurther furthercomprise compriseananaperture apertureonon each each side side

to allow, allow, for for example, example, forfor a dentist or dental assistant to perform dental dental work on work on a 2024203262

to a dentist or dental assistant to perform a

patient patient occupying occupying aapatient patient chair chair while whilethe theshield shieldcomponent component is the is in in the collapsed collapsed

position. Alternatively, position. Alternatively, such suchextensions extensionson on the the sides sides of shield of the the shield component component may be may be 10 10 omittedthereby omitted thereby further further increasing increasing accessibility accessibility to occupant to the the occupant of the of theorchair chair or other other object. object.

The system The systemofofthe thepresent presentdisclosure disclosurefurther further comprises comprisesaachamber chamber component. component. The The chambercomponent chamber componentmaymay be operatively be operatively attached attached to the to the suctioning suctioning component. component. Said Said

chambercomponent chamber component may,may, without without limitation, limitation, be be located located approximately approximately two-thirds two-thirds of of 15 15 the distance the distancefrom from thethe distal distal endend of the of the substantially substantially transparent transparent shieldshield component component to to the proximal the end of proximal end of said said component. component.The The locationofofsaid location saidchamber chamber component component may may approximatethe approximate thelocation location of of the the mouth andnasal mouth and nasalregions regionsofofananindividual individual occupying occupying the object the object over over which which the the shield shieldcomponent has been component has beenplaced. placed.

The chamber The chamber component component may extend may extend to an to an aperture, aperture, which which may be may be located located at the at the 20 20 distal end distal end of of the the shield shieldcomponent. Thechamber component. The chamber component component of the of the systems systems of of the the presentdisclosure present disclosuremaymay further further comprise comprise diodes diodes emitting emitting ultraviolet ultraviolet light light capable capable of of disinfecting aerosols disinfecting aerosols entering entering the thechamber component chamber component from from thethe space space between between the the interior surface interior of the surface of the shield shield component component and and an object. an object.

Systems Systems ofofthe the present presentdisclosure disclosure further further comprise comprise aa suctioning suctioning component such component such as as

25 25 a vacuum a whereinsaid vacuum wherein saidsuctioning suctioning component component may may suction suction airairfrom fromthe thespace spacebetween between the interior the interior surface ofthe surface of theshield shieldcomponent component andfront and the the of front an of an individual individual occupying occupying

an object an object as as contemplated by the contemplated by the present present disclosure. disclosure. The The movement movement ofofair air away awayfrom from the individual the individualoccupying occupying the the object object toward toward the the suctioning suctioning component optionally may component optionally may be further be further facilitated facilitated by by aa component component capable capable of exerting of exerting pressure pressure upon upon the theasair air so so as 30 30 to propel to theair propel the air forward forwardtoward towardthethe suctioning suctioning component. component.

23

The chamber chambercomponent component of of thethe systems of of thethe present disclosuremay may further 16 May 2024

The systems present disclosure further

comprisediodes comprise diodes emitting emitting ultraviolet ultraviolet light light capable capable of disinfecting of disinfecting aerosols aerosols entering entering the the chamber component chamber componentfrom from thethe space space between between the the interiorsurface interior surfaceofof the the shield shield component component and and the the front front of individual of an an individual occupying occupying the object. the object.

5 5 The systems The systemsofofthe thepresent presentdisclosure disclosure may mayfurther further comprise comprisesupplemental supplemental lightingto lighting to enhance enhance visibility for, visibility for, for for example, example, aadentist dentistorordental dentalassistant assistantperforming performing dental dental workwork

inside the mouthofofa apatient patientoccupying occupying a dental chair as contemplated by this 2024203262

inside the mouth a dental chair as contemplated by this

disclosure. Said disclosure. supplementallighting Said supplemental lighting may maybe be located, located, without without limitation,onon limitation, thethe

interior interior of of the the substantially substantially transparent shieldcomponent. transparent shield component.

10 10 As discussed As discussedherein, herein,the thesystems systemsof of thethe present present disclosure disclosure maymay further further comprise comprise

magnifying materials, magnifying materials, such such as as without without limitation, limitation, magnifying magnifying glass, glass, lightlight emitting emitting diodes diodes

providing supplementallighting, providing supplemental lighting, and/or and/or aacamera camera communicatively communicatively connected connected to, to, withoutlimitation, without limitation, aa liquid liquid crystal crystal display, display, wherein wherein said said magnifying magnifying materials materials may bemay be located withinaaportion located within portionofofthe theshield shieldcomponent componentat a at a location location intended intended to approximate to approximate

15 15 whereaapatient's where patient’s mouth maybe. mouth may be.InInone oneembodiment embodiment of the of the present present disclosure, disclosure, said said

location may location maybe be approximately approximately two -thirds two -thirds of theof the distance distance from thefrom theend distal distal end of the of the shield component shield to the component to the proximal proximal end endof of the the shield shield component. component.

In an embodiment an embodiment of of thethe systems systems enabled enabled by thebypresent the present disclosure, disclosure, the shield the shield

component1400 component 1400 maymay be be operatively operatively attached attached to to a seatininananaircraft a seat aircraft 1401. 1401. According According

20 20 to such to an embodiment, such an embodiment,the theshield shieldcomponent componentmaymay be detachable. be detachable. While, While, according according

to this to this embodiment, embodiment, thethe structure structure andand operation operation of the of the shield shield component component of the present of the present

disclosure may disclosure maybebesubstantially substantiallyidentical identical to to that that discussed discussedabove, above, thethe suctioning suctioning

componentmay component may comprise comprise a hose a hose 14021402 extending extending from the from near nearproximal the proximal end ofend theof the shield component shield component in the in the headhead region region of an of an individual individual occupying occupying the aircraft the aircraft seat seat to a to a 25 25 ventilation system ventilation systemofofthe theaircraft aircraftaccessible accessiblein in thethe portion portion of the of the roofroof of the of the interior interior of of the aircraft the aircraft 1403 locatedimmediately 1403 located immediately above above a passenger a passenger seat. Alternatively, seat. Alternatively, said said hose hose may extend may extend from from near near the the distal distal end end of the of the shield shield component component to theoffloor to the floor the of the interior interior

of the of the aircraft. aircraft.According to this According to this embodiment, embodiment, thethe shield shield component component may bemay be detachable detachable

fromthe from theseat seatininthe theaircraft. aircraft. According According totothis thisembodiment, embodiment, the shield the shield component component may may 30 30 be so be sodetached, detached, without without limitation, limitation, by by actuating actuating a release a release mechanism mechanism by, for by, for example, example,

pressinga abutton pressing buttonthat thatmay may be be located located within within an approximately an approximately 16 inch16 inch from radius radius thefrom the aircraft seat. aircraft seat.

24

In another embodiment embodimentofofa asystem system enabled by present the present disclosure, the the 16 May 2024

In another enabled by the disclosure, substantially transparent substantially transparent shield shieldcomponent maybebeoperatively component may operativelyattached attachedtotothe thefront front passengerseat passenger seatofof an anautomobile. automobile.While, While,according accordingtoto this this embodiment, thestructure embodiment, the structure andoperation and operationofof the the shield shield component component of theofpresent the present disclosure disclosure may be substantially may be substantially

5 5 identical totothat identical discussed that discussedabove, above, the the suctioning suctioningcomponent maybebe component may easilyportable easily portable andmay and mayfitfitwithin withinthe theconsole console compartment compartment of theof the automobile. automobile.

In another embodiment embodimentofofa asystem system enabled by present the present disclosure, the the 2024203262

In another enabled by the disclosure, substantially transparent substantially transparentshield shieldcomponent component may may be be operatively operatively attached attached to a bed to a bed such such as, without as, without limitation, limitation, a ahospital hospitalbed. bed.The The shield shield component may component may be be extended extended to to 10 10 approximately five feet approximately five feettotoapproximately approximately eight eight feetfeet in length, in length, preferably preferably from from

approximately approximately sixsix feet feet to to approximately approximately seven seven feet infeet in length, length, without without limitation. limitation. The The shield component shield component may may be positioned be positioned to collapse to collapse toward toward the the front offront of an individual an individual lying lying in the in thebed. bed.According According to tosuch suchan anembodiment, the shield embodiment, the shield component maybebedesigned component may designed so as so as to to completely completely enclose enclose the the occupant occupant ofof the the bed. bed.According Accordingtotosuch suchanan 15 15 embodiment, embodiment, the the aperture aperture through through whichwhich airbemay air may be suctioned suctioned may beatlocated may be located either at either end of end of the the shield shieldcomponent. component.

While various While various aspects aspectsofofthe thesystems systems andand methods methods of disclosure of this this disclosure have have been been describedabove, described above, thethe description description of this of this disclosure disclosure is intended is intended to illustrate to illustrate andand not not limit limit

the scope the scopeofofthe thesystem. system. The The invention invention is defined is defined by theby the of scope scope of theand the claims claims not and not 20 20 the illustrations the illustrations and examples and examples provided provided in above in the the above disclosure. disclosure. Skilled Skilled artisansartisans will will appreciate additional aspects appreciate additional aspects of of the the systems enabledbybythis systems enabled this disclosure, disclosure, which may which may

be realized be realized inin alternative alternative embodiments, embodiments, after after having having the benefit the benefit of above of the the above disclosure.Other disclosure. Otheraspects, aspects, advantages, advantages, embodiments, embodiments, and modifications and modifications are withinare thewithin the scopeofofthe scope theclaims. claims.

25 25 Anyreferences Any referencesto to methods, methods, apparatus apparatus or documents or documents of theartprior of the prior are art notare to not to be be taken taken as constituting as constituting any evidenceororadmission any evidence admission that that they they formed, formed, or form or form part part of of the the commongeneral common general knowledge. knowledge.

Throughoutthe Throughout thespecification specificationand andclaims claims (if(ifpresent), present),unless unlessthethecontext context requires requires

otherwise,the otherwise, theterm term"substantially" "substantially"oror"about" "about" willbebeunderstood will understood to not to not be limited be limited to to the the 30 30 valuefor value for the the range rangequalified qualifiedbyby the the terms. terms.

25

In In compliance with thethe statute, thethe invention has has beenbeen described in language more or more or 16 May 2024

compliance with statute, invention described in language

less specific to less specific structural or to structural or methodical features. The methodical features. Theterm term “comprises” "comprises" and and its its

variations, such variations, suchasas"comprising" “comprising”andand “comprised "comprised of" isof” is used used throughout throughout in an inclusive in an inclusive

senseand sense andnotnot to to thethe exclusion exclusion of any of any additional additional features. features.

5 5

CROSS-REFERENCE CROSS-REFERENCE TOTORELATED RELATED APPLICATIONS APPLICATIONS 2024203262

This application This applicationisisaadivisional divisionalapplication applicationfrom from Australian Australian application application 2022256185. 2022256185.

Thefull The full disclosure ofAustralian disclosure of Australianapplication application 2022256185 2022256185 is incorporated is incorporated herein herein by by 10 10 reference. reference.

Australianapplication Australian application2022256185 2022256185 is a divisional is a divisional application application from parent from parent applications applications

being international being international patent patent applications applications PCT/US2021/025874, PCT/US2021/025554 PCT/US2021/025874, PCT/US2021/025554

andPCT/US2021/025724, and PCT/US2021/025724, which which in turn in turnpriority claim claim priority from USfrom US applications applications as set as set forth forth 15 15 on those on those PCT PCTapplications, applications, namely: namely: US 16/924,649 filed US 16/924,649 filed 09.07.2020 US 09.07.2020 US

US 16/943,178 filed US 16/943,178 filed 30.07.2020 US;and 30.07.2020 US; and US 63/026,110filed US 63/026,110 filed 17.05.2020 17.05.2020 US US Thecontents The contentsof of said said international international applications applications and and US US applications applications are incorporated are incorporated

herein byreference. herein by reference.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method for mitigating risk of transmission of an infectious disease comprising:

providing a single integrated unit comprising: 2024203262

a substantially transparent shield component, wherein the substantially transparent shield component is connected to a collapsible and/or rotatable and/or extendible arm;

a chamber component, and

a vacuum device operatively attached to the chamber component, wherein the vacuum device is adapted to suction aerosol from a space between said substantially transparent shield component and an individual occupying an object over which the substantially transparent shield component has been placed,

wherein the chamber component comprises one or more diodes emitting ultraviolet light adapted to disinfect the aerosols located between the interior surface of the substantially transparent shield component and the individual;

wherein the chamber component is configurable to be located over the mouth and nasal region of the individual.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the integrated unit is mountable to a wall.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the substantially transparent shield component comprises a magnifying aspect.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the magnifying aspect consists of one or more of the following: magnifying glass, light emitting diodes, and a camera communicatively attached to a display screen.

5. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the substantially transparent shield component is placed approximately 10 inches from the individual’s 05 Feb 2026 face.

6. A system for mitigating risk of transmission of an infectious disease comprising:

a single integrated unit comprising:

a substantially transparent shield component, wherein the substantially 2024203262

transparent shield component is connected to a collapsible and/or rotatable and/or extendible arm,

a chamber component, and

wherein the chamber component comprises one or more diodes emitting ultraviolet light adapted to disinfect the aerosols located between the interior surface of the transparent shield component and the individual;

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the integrated unit is mountable to a wall.

8. The system of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the substantially transparent shield component comprises magnifying material.

9. The system of any one of claim 6 to 8, further comprising lighting located on an interior surface of the substantially transparent shield component.

10. The system of any one of claims 6 to 9, further comprising a docking station wherein the docking station providers power to the system.

FiG. 1A 2024203262

101

103 704