Patent attributes
Provided are devices for engaging highly portable gas containers are provided that include a mouthpiece component comprising a flexible mouthguard, a variable inlet component that allows gas to flow from two or more sources to the user, or both. In embodiments such a device comprises engagement means for engaging gas container(s), a transition element that comprises an interior flow passage and a substantially rigid or resilient body, and optionally, a lip engagement component. The devices can be used in assemblies/devices that comprise one or more gas containers containing gas, e.g., an oxygen-rich gas and possibly other ingredients, such as nitric oxide, helium, or active pharmaceutical ingredients. In aspects, the components engage a gas container operable as a gas delivery system independently of such components. Also provided are methods of using such devices, e.g., in delivering oxygen to a person exposed to undesirable saliva-transmissible agents, e.g., harmful chemicals or infectious agents.