Face mask device for reducing wrinkles

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a face mask with electrodes for a user. The method includes locating the wrinkles on a user's face. The step of locating the wrinkles on a user's face including providing an image of the user's face, cropping the image and centering the user's face. The step of locating the wrinkles further including detecting facial feature landmarks in the image, segmenting skin regions based on the facial feature landmarks, locating pixels in a linear pattern and with a high contrast to neighbouring pixels, and classifying wrinkles from the edges of facial features. The method further including creating a face mask with tessellated arrays of interlocking units that impart biaxial stretchability and three-dimensional facial contour conformity, the face mask including a plurality of holders located at a plurality of wrinkle locations, wherein each of the plurality of holders being configured to hold an electrode, and manufacturing the face mask on a 3D printer.

Description

FACE MASK DEVICE FOR REDUCING WRINKLESFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to face masks for healthcare, beauty and personal care, and more specifically to a face mask for targeting wrinkles and to improve skincare.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Recent advances in home-use electrical treatment technology drive increasing consumer demand for painless cosmetic treatments that improve facial appearance and skin texture. Commercial products in this sector currently fall into three principal categories.

[0003] In the first category, handheld applicators require the user to manually apply the device over the face. As the operation is entirely manual, therapeutic efficacy depends on individual application technique, contact pressure, and treatment duration. However, since visible cosmetic improvements require multiple sessions continued for at least 1 month, the inconvenience of repeated manual application discourages consistent use and hinders overall effectiveness.

[0004] A second category comprises single-use sheet masks that incorporate screen- printed electrodes on thin hydrogel or sheet mask substrates. Due to their thin form factor, these masks conform well to facial contours during a single treatment. However, as the substrate dries over time, the reliable interface between treatment electrodes and the skin is degraded, requiring each mask to be discarded after a single treatment session. The lack of reusability not only increases treatment costs but also generates considerable environmental waste.

[0005] The third category includes reusable full-face garments with substrates of stretchable fabric or flexible polymer blends. These devices rely on elastic tension, typically applied by adjustable straps, to press electrodes against the skin. Although they avoid waste, these devices create non-uniform pressure points on the face, causing discomfort at raised regions and gaps over inwardly curved areas, thereby discouraging consistent use. Furthermore, electrode placement is limited to relatively flat facial areas, reducing treatment coverage and placement flexibility.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] According to various aspects of the present invention, there is provided a reusable, electronically integrated face mask device. The face mask device includes a forehead section including a bottom edge, a right edge and a left edge. The face mask also includes a right temple section including a top edge and bottom edge, the top edge of right temple section connected to the forehead section along the bottom edge of the forehead section in proximity to the right edge of the forehead section. The face mask further includes a nose bridge section comprising pressure-redistribution pieces that span the nose bridge, under the eyes, and regions above opposed cheekbones, releasably attached to the bottom edge of the right temple sections. The face mask further includes a right cheek section including a top edge and left edge, the top edge of right cheek section releasably attached to the nose bridge section. The face mask also includes a left temple section including a top edge and a bottom edge, the top edge of left temple section connected to the forehead section along the bottom edge of the forehead section in proximity to the left edge of the forehead section, and the bottom edge of left temple section releasably attached to the nose bridge section. In addition, the face mask includes a left cheek section including a top edge and a right edge, the top edge of the left cheek section releasably attached to the nose bridge section. Furthermore, the face mask includes a chin strap placed between the left edge of the right cheek section and the right edge of the left cheek section. The face mask also includes a plurality of electrodes and sensors connected to and operatively coupled to printed circuit boards configured to supply power, generate treatment waveforms, and receive sensor data. The plurality of electrodes and sensors are placed on the forehead section, the right temple section, the right cheek section, the left temple section, and the left cheek section.

[0007] According to various aspects of the present invention, the forehead section, the right temple section, the right cheek section, the left temple section, and the left cheek section of the face mask comprise a tessellated array of rigid interlocking units that, when manufactured into a single piece, form a biaxially stretchable and foldable substrate owing to its geometry. Any unit may be replaced by a holder unit of identical external geometry that incorporates a cavity or attachment feature for mounting an electrode, sensor, conductive connection, or encapsulated circuit-board module. Holder and nonholder units interlock in the same manner. Functional electronics can be positioned atarbitrary locations across the mask, with high-density coverage or personalized to the user.

[0008] According to various aspects of the present invention, there is provided a method of detecting wrinkles on a user’s face. The method includes providing an image of the user’s face and cropping the image and centering the user’s face. The method also includes detecting facial feature landmarks in the image and segmenting skin regions based on the facial feature landmarks. Furthermore, the method includes locating pixels in a linear pattern and with a high contrast to neighbouring pixels and classifying wrinkles from the edges of facial features.

[0009] According to various aspects of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a face mask with electrodes for a user. The method includes locating the wrinkles on a user’s face. The step of locating the wrinkles on a user’s face including providing an image of the user’s face, cropping the image and centering the user’s face. The step of locating the wrinkles further including detecting facial feature landmarks in the image, segmenting skin regions based on the facial feature landmarks, locating pixels in a linear pattern and with a high contrast to neighbouring pixels, and classifying wrinkles from the edges of facial features. The method further includes creating a map for personalized electronics placement on the face mask that corresponds to a plurality of holder units located at a plurality of wrinkle locations, wherein each of the plurality of holder units being configured to hold an electrode.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The embodiments of the present invention shall be more clearly understood with reference to the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a front right perspective view of a face mask in an open configuration prior to being formed to a user’s face, and where the forehead section and temple sections are disconnected from the cheek sections;

[0012] FIG. 2 is front view of the face mask of FIG. 1 in an open configuration;

[0013] FIG. 3 is another front view of the face mask of FIG. 1 in an open configuration, where sections of the face mask are depicted and where the sections of the face mask are connected;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a right side view of the face mask of FIG. 1 in an open configuration;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a front right perspective view of a single M-shaped unit, of which multiple units are included in the face mask of FIG. 1;

[0016] FIG. 6 is a front view of the single M-shaped unit of FIG. 5;

[0017] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the single M-shaped unit of FIG. 5;

[0018] FIG. 8 is a right side view of the single M-shaped unit of FIG. 5;

[0019] FIG. 9 is a front right perspective view of a single ball joint connector, of which multiple units are included in the face mask of FIG. 1;

[0020] FIG. 10 is front view of the single ball joint connector of FIG. 9;

[0021] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the single ball joint connector of FIG. 9;

[0022] FIG. 12 is a right side view of the single ball joint connector of FIG. 9;

[0023] FIG. 13 is a front right perspective view of a single top connector M-shaped unit, of which multiple units are included in the face mask of FIG. 1;

[0024] FIG. 14 is a front view of the single top connector M-shaped unit of FIG. 13;

[0025] FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the single top connector M-shaped unit of FIG. 13;

[0026] FIG. 16 is a right side view of the single top connector M-shaped unit of FIG. 13;

[0027] FIG. 17 is a front right perspective view of a single bottom connector M-shaped unit, of which multiple units are included in the face mask of FIG. 1;

[0028] FIG. 18 is a front view of the single bottom connector M-shaped unit of FIG. 17;

[0029] FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the single bottom connector M-shaped unit of FIG. 17;

[0030] FIG. 20 is a right side view of the single bottom connector M-shaped unit of FIG. 17;

[0031] FIG. 21 is a front view of a series of M-shaped units of FIG. 5 connected together and shaping and electrical wires running through the series of M-shaped units;

[0032] FIG. 22 is rear view of the series of M-shaped units with wiring of FIG. 21;

[0033] FIG. 23 is a front right perspective view of the series of M-shaped units with wiring of FIG. 21;

[0034] FIG. 24 is a rear left perspective view of the series of M-shaped units with wiring of FIG. 21;

[0035] FIG. 25 is a front view of a forehead piece of an alternate embodiment of the face mask in an open configuration;

[0036] FIG. 26 is a front view of two cheek pieces of the alternate embodiment of the face mask referenced in FIG. 25 in an open configuration;

[0037] FIG. 27 is a diagram of the alternate embodiment of the face mask of FIGS. 25 and 26 being applied to a user’s face;

[0038] FIG. 28 is a cross sectional view of the layering of the face mask of FIG. 1 and the included electrical wiring;

[0039] FIG. 29 is a cross sectional view of the layering of an alternate embodiment of a face mask and the included electrical wiring;

[0040] FIG. 30 is a cross sectional view of the layering of the face mask of FIGS. 25 to 27 and the included electrical wiring;

[0041] FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of electrical components of a face mask;

[0042] FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of a system to determine wrinkle locations on a user’s face and to create a customized face mask;

[0043] FIG. 33 is a flow chart depicting a method of wrinkle detection;

[0044] FIG. 34 is a flow chart depicting a method of measuring skin hydration;

[0045] FIGS. 35 to 45 depict example graphical user interfaces of the user device of the system of FIG. 32; and

[0046] FIGS. 46 to 51 depict example circuit diagrams of the wiring for an embodiment of electrical components of the face mask.DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0047] The description, which follows, and the embodiments described therein are provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples of particular embodiments of principles and aspects of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation and not of limitation, of those principles of the invention. In the description that follows, like parts are marked throughout the specification and the drawings with the same respective reference numerals.

[0048] Face mask 100 provides a home-based skin health monitoring and skincare treatment-delivering device in a mask form that is personalized to individual facial morphology and sense and delivers electrical currents through sensors and electrode arrays that tightly conform to the user’s face. Face mask 100 includes several advantages, including being in a wearable form factor, and where face mask 100 is personalized to conform to a user’s face. Furthermore, face mask 100 includes between 4 to 50 channels of electrodes. In addition, face mask 100 may communicate with a user device to provide sensor readouts.

[0049] Face mask 100 to may be considered an electronically integrated, wearable facialmask devices. In the current embodiment, face mask 100 pertains to a facially conformable electronic device configured to deliver electrical energy to the skin, subcutaneous fat, or underlying facial muscles, and further configured to acquireelectrical and other physiological signals from those tissues. Face mask 100 and other embodiments of face mask 100 are applicable across a broad range of consumer health, wellness, aesthetic, therapeutic, and diagnostic uses, including wrinkle reduction for facial rejuvenation, neuromuscular stimulation for facial toning, enhancement of topical skincare absorption, and continuous or periodic monitoring of skin health.

[0050] There is an unmet need for a reusable, electronically integrated facial mask device that automates the delivery of electrical therapy and the acquisition of skin-related physiological data, achieves reliable three-dimensional conformity without high mechanical tension, and supports high-density electrode arrays covering the entire face. Face mask 100 is advantageous and solves the above-mentioned drawbacks by providing electrical cosmetic treatments with equal efficacy and improved usability compared with existing handheld devices, disposable sheet masks, and tension-based wearable devices. Specifically, face mask 100 may be re-used and hence does not generate environmental waste. Furthermore, face mask 100 may be configured to apply equal and uniform pressure on the face, regardless of the topography of a user’s face. In addition, face mask 100 may also be configured to include electrode placement at effective locations on a user’s face, regardless of the topography of a user’s face. Specifically, electrodes of face mask 100 may be used on curved or non-flat surfaces of a user’s face, allowing for better treatment coverage and electrode placement flexibility.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 4, there is shown a face mask, generally designated with reference numeral 100, also, referred to herein as face mask 100 or therapy mask 100. The main components of face mask 100 may include a forehead section 104, a right temple section 108B, a left temple section 108A, a right cheek section 112B and a left cheek section 112A. In a preferred embodiment, the left temple section 108 A interconnects the left end of forehead section 104 and a top side of left cheek section 112A. Similarly, the right temple section 108B interconnects the right end of forehead section 104 and a top side of right cheek section 112A. The left cheek section 112A is connected with right cheek section 112B via nose bridge section 128 running between the top side of left cheek section 112A and the top side of right check section 112B. In addition, the left cheek section 112A is connected with right cheek section 112B via chin section 124 running between the bottom side of left cheek section 112A and the bottom side of right check section 112B. Forehead section 104, left temple section 108A, righttemple section 108B, left cheek section 102A and right cheek section 112B are made up of a plurality of units including M-shaped units 140, ball joint connectors 120, top connector M-shaped units 144 and bottom connection M-shaped units 116. Face mask 100 may include electrodes to provide electrical charges to the user’s face. Furthermore, face mask 100 may also include electrical components to provide power and control the above-mentioned electrodes.

[0052] Conforming to the human face is predominately challenged by curvature, with curved areas ranging from convex spherical areas such as the nose, eyebrows, lips, and chin, to concave spherical areas such as the inner eye comers and subnasal region, as well as saddle areas in between. To accommodate both curvatures with small radii, such as the nose with a potential 16-26 mm protrusion, and curvatures with large radii, such as the cheek with a potential 120-145 mm facial depth, face mask 100 provides a flexible structure adapting to the curves and a shape-memory structure maintaining the desired shape after bending.

[0053] Face mask 100 as depicted in FIGS. 1 through 4 show face mask 100 in an open configuration. More specifically, face mask 100 has not been conformed to a user’s face. The structure of face mask 100 allows for a rigid shell that is also flexible via the ball joint connectors to conform to the topography of a user’s face. When bent to conform to the topography of a user’s face, face mask 100 may be considered to be in an applied configuration. This will be further discussed below.

[0054] Forehead section 104 is applied to the user’s forehead. In its open configuration, forehead section 104 is generally rectangular with the top side and bottom side having a greater length than the right side and left side. Forehead section 104 may include an upper edge 136 made of a plurality of ball joint connectors running along the top side of forehead section 104. Forehead section 104 may also include a brow line 132 made of a plurality of ball joint connectors running along the bottom side of forehead section 104 between left temple section 108A and right temple section 108B. The plurality of ball joint connectors of upper edge 136 and brow line 132 aid in providing support for the curvature of forehead section 104 around the user’s forehead. When in an applied configuration, forehead section 104 can wrap around the curvature of the user’s forehead. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that forehead section 104 may be of any shape and any size to conform to the user’s forehead.

[0055] Left temple section 108 A is applied to the user’s left temple. In its open configuration, left temple section 108 A is generally rectangular with the top side and bottom side having a greater length than the right side and left side. However, in a preferred embodiment, left temple section 108 A is generally smaller in surface area than forehead section 104. In the current embodiment, the top side of left temple section 108 A is connected in proximity to the left side of forehead section 104 along the bottom side of forehead section 104. A person skilled in the art will recognize that left temple section 108 A may be of any shape and size and accordingly other arrangements or configurations of connecting to forehead section 104 are contemplated. For example, left temple section 108 A may be generally L-shaped and accordingly, the inner side of the L-shaped left temple section 108A may be connected to two sides in proximity to the left end of forehead section 104. Furthermore, as will be explained below, the engagement / connect! on points that are releasably attached between left temple section 108 A and forehead section 104 are generally flexible due to the use of ball joint connectors. A person skilled in the art will recognize that a differing length of contact / engagement between left temple section 108A and forehead section 104 may affect the flexibility and angle of curvature that the engagement / connection points may have, and as such variations in the length, size and design of contact / engagement between left temple section 108 A and forehead section 104 are contemplated. When in an applied configuration, left temple section 108 A can wrap around the surface of the user’s left temple.

[0056] Right temple section 108B is applied to the user’s right temple. Similar to left temple section 108 A, in its open configuration, right temple section 108B is generally rectangular with the top side and bottom side having a greater length than the right side and left side. However, in a preferred embodiment, right temple section 108B is generally smaller in surface area than forehead section 104. Similar to left temple section 108 A, in the current embodiment, the top side of right temple section 108B is connected in proximity to the right side of forehead section 104 along the bottom side of forehead section 104. A person skilled in the art will recognize that right temple section 108B may be of any shape and size and accordingly other arrangements or configurations of connecting to forehead section 104 are contemplated. For example, right temple section 108B may be generally L-shaped and accordingly, the inner side of the L-shaped right temple section 108B may be connected to two sides in proximity to the right end offorehead section 104. Furthermore, similar to left temple section 108 A, as will be explained below, the engagement / connection points that are releasably attached between right temple section 108B and forehead section 104 are generally flexible due to the use of ball joint connectors. A person skilled in the art will recognize that a differing length of contact / engagement between right temple section 108B and forehead section 104 may affect the flexibility and angle of curvature that the engagement / connection points may have, and as such variations in the length, size and design of contact / engagement between right temple section 108B and forehead section 104 are contemplated. When in an applied configuration, right temple section 108B can wrap around the surface of the user’s right temple.

[0057] Left cheek section 112A is applied to the user’s left cheek. In the current embodiment, in its open configuration, left cheek section 112A is square-shaped. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that other embodiments for left cheek section 112A may be generally rectangular. The bottom side of left temple section 108A is connected to a partial segment of the top side of the left cheek section 112A. More specifically, in this embodiment, the bottom side of left temple section 108A is connected along the top side of left cheek section 112A in proximity to the left side of left cheek section 112A. A person skilled in the art will recognize that left cheek section 112A may be of any shape and size and accordingly other arrangements or configurations of connecting to left temple section 108 A are contemplated. Furthermore, as will be explained below, the engagement / connection points that releasably attach between left cheek section 112A and left temple section 108A are generally flexible due to the use of ball joint connectors. A person skilled in the art will recognize that a differing length of contact / engagement between left cheek section 112A and left temple section 108A may affect the flexibility and angle of curvature that the engagement / connection points may have, and as such variations in the length, size and design of contact / engagement between left cheek section 112A and left temple section 108A are contemplated. When in an applied configuration, left cheek section 112A can wrap around the surface of the user’s left cheek.

[0058] Right cheek section 112B is applied to the user’s right cheek. In the current embodiment, in its open configuration, right cheek section 112B is square-shaped. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that other embodiments for right cheeksection 112B may be generally rectangular. The botom side of right temple section 108B is connected to a partial segment of the top side of the right cheek section 112B. More specifically, in this embodiment, the bottom side of right temple section 108B is connected along the top side of right cheek section 112B in proximity to the right side of right cheek section 112B. A person skilled in the art will recognize that right cheek section 112B may be of any shape and size and accordingly other arrangements or configurations of connecting to right temple section 108B are contemplated. Furthermore, as will be explained below, the engagement / connection points that releasably atach between right cheek section 112B and right temple section 108B are generally flexible due to the use of ball joint connectors. A person skilled in the art will recognize that a differing length of contact / engagement between right cheek section 112B and right temple section 108B may affect the flexibility and angle of curvature that the engagement / connection points may have, and as such variations in the length, size and design of contact / engagement between right cheek section 112B and right temple section 108B are contemplated. When in an applied configuration, right cheek section 112B can wrap around the surface of the user’s right cheek.

[0059] Nose bridge section 128 includes a plurality of ball joint connectors. Nose bridge section 128 provides support to the overall structure of face mask 100 while maintaining the flexibility to curve around the nose area of the user’s face when in an applied configuration. In the current embodiment nose bridge section 128 extends between the top right comer of left cheek section 112A and the top left comer of right cheek section 112B. In alternate embodiments, the ends of nose bridge section 128 may further extend along the top side of left cheek section 112A and the top side of right cheek section 112B. By further extending along the top side of left cheek section 112A and top side of right cheek section 112B, nose bridge section 128 may have a greater contact / engagement area with the top side of left cheek section 112A and top side of right cheek section 112B, providing greater structural integrity to the face mask 100. A person skilled in the art will recognize that nose bridge section 128 may be of any length to accommodate the size and shape of different faces. Specifically, the distance between left cheek section 112A and right cheek section 112B may vary depending on the user. For example, if a user has a longer distance between his / her left cheek and right cheek, the number of ball joint connectors may be increased. Similarly, if the distance between the user’s left cheek and right cheek is shorter, then fewer ball j oint connectors may be used for nose bridge section128. In yet another embodiment, nose bridge section 128 may be any other flexible interconnecting member. For example, nose bridge section 128 may be a shape-memory nitinol or aluminimum wire, a Velcro strap, an eyeglass rim and nose pad, or disjoint pieces with chain connections. A person skilled in the art will recognize that different configurations and arrangements of nose bridge section 128 may be used.

[0060] Chin section 124 includes a plurality of ball joint connectors. Chin section 124 provides support to the overall structure of face mask 100 while maintaining the flexibility to curve around the chin area of the user’s face when in an applied configuration. In the current embodiment chin section 124 extends between the bottom right comer of left cheek section 112A and the bottom left comer of right cheek section 112B. In alternate embodiments, the ends of chin section 124 may further extend along the bottom side of left cheek section 112A and the bottom side of right cheek section 112B. By further extending along the bottom side of left cheek section 112A and bottom side of right cheek section 112B, chin section 124 may have a greater contact / engagement area with the bottom side of left cheek section 112A and bottom side of right cheek section 112B, providing greater structural integrity to the face mask 100. A person skilled in the art will recognize that chin section 124 may be of any length to accommodate the size and shape of different faces. Specifically, the distance between left cheek section 112A and right cheek section 112B may vary depending on the user. For example, if a user has a longer distance between his / her left cheek and right cheek, the number of ball joint connectors may be increased. Similarly, if the distance between the user’s left cheek and right cheek is shorter, then fewer ball joint connectors may be used for chin section 124. In yet another embodiment, chin section 124 may be any other flexible interconnecting member. For example, chin section 124 may be a chin strap. A person skilled in the art will recognize that different configurations and arrangements of chin section 124 may be used.

[0061] As can be seen in FIGS. 1 through 4, there is a first void defined by the nose bridge section 128, the right side of left cheek section 112A, the left side of right cheek section 112B and the chin section 124. This first void is for the nose and the mouth of the user. Similarly, there is a second void defined by the bottom side of the forehead section 104, the right side of left temple section 108 A, the nose bridge section 128 and the left side of right temple section 108B. This second void is for the eyes of the user. A personskilled in the art will recognize that different sizes and shapes for the first void and second void are contemplated and accordingly, as the first void and second void are defined by various sections of face mask 100, differing sizes, shapes, arrangements and configurations of the various sections and how they interconnect with each other may be contemplated.

[0062] Face mask 100 also includes sensors and electrodes embedded in face mask 100. The location of the sensors and electrodes embedded in face mask 100 can be optimized based on a wrinkle detection method. This will be further discussed below. In a preferred embodiment, face mask 100 includes 8 to 100 electrodes. Specifically, for example, the forehead region may include 4 to 20 electrodes, with the sensors and electrodes located at a higher vertical and ground electrodes located at a lower vertical. In another example, the left cheek section 112A and the right cheek section 112B may include 4 to 15 electrodes each. In one embodiment, the placement of the sensors and electrodes may be customized and determined based on the wrinkle detection method. In yet another embodiment, the placement of the sensors and electrodes may be evenly distributed across the different sections of face mask 100.

[0063] The electrodes are made of stainless steel and / or are coated in platinum. In an alternative embodiment, the electrodes may be made of other conductive and biocompatible materials, including, but not limited to, metals, or dry polymer, such as conductive filler-impregnated polyolefin, and / or screen printed silver electrodes on flexible polymer substrates.

[0064] In certain embodiments, electrodes may contain female threads on one end, and may be used to screw onto male threads that are provided on face mask 100. Specifically, face mask 100 may be 3D printed with optimized placements for electrodes, where a mounting point with male threads is printed by 3D printer at the areas of the user’s face mapped to have the most wrinkles or the most prominent wrinkles. Electrical wires may then be connected to each male thread on face mask 100 and further connected to a printed circuit board or a power source.

[0065] In other embodiments (not shown), electrodes may be housed within holder units that substitute for standard M-shaped substrate units at targeted locations. Each holder unit is identical in outer geometry to the replaced M-shaped unit but incorporates aninternal casing that defines a geometric cavity sized to receive a functional insert, such as an electrode, sensor, or printed circuit board modules. The cavity may be cylindrical, polygonal, or otherwise contoured to match the external profile of the insert, thereby securing it without adhesives. Each holder unit employs the same multi-leg interlocking loops as adjacent units, maintaining the global biaxial stretchability and bendability of the mask while allowing holder units to be positioned at arbitrary sites.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 5 through 8, a single M-shaped unit 140 is depicted. Each M- shaped unit 140 includes a plurality of members forming a generally flat rectangular prism with members on the top forming an M shape. This effectively creates a tubular frame that also allows a plurality of M-shaped units 140 to interlock with each other. More specifically, M-shaped units 140 may be interconnected as building blocks to provide a generally flat structure. In a preferred embodiment, M-shaped units 140 are made of a rigid material and hence when a plurality of M-shaped units 140 are interconnected, a generally flat rigid structure is created. In the current embodiment, M- shaped units 140 may be 3D-printed. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that any rigid material may be contemplated for M-shaped unit 140, including, but not limited to, polymers (thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers, either synthetic, naturally occurring, or natural-derived polymers), ceramics (oxide ceramics and nonoxide ceramics), pure metals and metal alloys, composites with the aforementioned materials as matrices (polymer matrix composites, metal matrix composites, and ceramic matrix composites), hybrid of aforementioned materials (polymer-ceramic hybrids and metal-ceramic hybrids).

[0067] When interlocking a plurality of M-shaped units 140 together, connection points 504A, 504B, 508A and 508B may be used. Specifically, a plurality of M-shaped units 140 may be releasbly attached to one another. In some embodiments, connection points 504A, 504B, 508A and 508B may be snap-fit together. In another embodiment, the M- shaped units 140 may be adhered to each other using an adhesive. In yet another embodiment, the shape of the M-shaped units 140 allow each M-shaped unit 140 to fit next to each other and are held together with wires running through the members and / or the tubular frame of M-shaped units 140. Referring to FIG. 23, five M-shaped units 140 are placed together. This will be further discussed below. The tubular frame configuration of a M-shaped unit 140 allows for a hollow to be partially defined by saidmembers / tubular frame. Since the M-shaped unit 140 includes a hollow, electrical wires or other information-carrying mediums may take advantage of said hollow and run through a plurality of M-shaped units 140. Furthermore, as M-shaped units 140 have a hollow, the overall weight of either a single M-shaped unit 140 or a plurality of M-shaped units 140 is less than a plurality of building blocks that are solid. Additionally, the interlocking nature of M-shaped units 140 also increase structural integrity of face mask 100. A person skilled in the art will recognize that while M-shaped units 140 are used in face mask 100, different shaped building blocks may also be used, such as an individual unit having opposed top and bottom flat faces, an arbitrary peripheral geometry, and interlocking multi-leg loops configured to mechanically engage 3-16 surrounding adjacent units.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 4 and FIG. 23, in the current embodiment, when interlocking M-shaped units 140, each M-shaped unit 140 is staggered from one another, forming a chainmail-like assembly. This design is advantageous as it provides a breathable, easily washable surface that conforms to facial contours as small as 50 mm without gaps or excessive pressure points. Specifically, connection point 504B of a first M-shaped unit 140 may connect to connection point 508 A of a second M-shaped unit 140. Similarly, connection point 504A of a first M-shaped unit 140 may connect to connection point 508B of a third M-shaped unit 140. For greater clarity, when referring to FIG. 23, the M-shaped unit 140 in the centre is connected in a staggered manner with the four surrounding M-shaped units 140. In this example, connection point 504A of the centre M-shaped unit 140 is connected to connection point 508B of the first of the four surrounding M-shaped units 140. Connection point 504B of the centre M-shaped unit 140 is connected to connection point 508A of the second of the four surrounding M-shaped units 140. Connection point 508A of the centre M-shaped unit 140 is connected to connection point 504B of the third of the four surrounding M-shaped units 140. Connection point 508B of the centre M-shaped unit 140 is connected to connection point 504A of the fourth of the four surrounding M-shaped units 140. This pattern may then repeat itself such that a plurality of M-shaped units 140 may interconnect.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 9 through 12, a ball joint connector 120 is depicted. Each ball joint connector 120 may include a ball head 904, a C-shaped wall 912, and a connecting member 916 between ball head 904 and C-shaped wall 912. The C-shaped wall 912further includes a receiving socket 908 for a second ball head 904. In the current embodiment, ball head 904, connecting member 916 and C-shaped wall 912 share an axis. Specifically, ball head 904, connecting member 916 and the middle of receiving socket 908 share an axis that runs along the length of the shaft of connecting member 916.

[0070] When interlocking a first ball joint connector 120 with a second ball joint connector 120, ball head 904 of the first ball joint connector 120 is inserted into receiving socket 908 of the second ball joint connector 120. The inner walls of C-shaped wall 912 partially define receiving socket 908 and hold the received ball head 904 in a friction fit. More specifically, ball head 904 of the first ball joint connector 120 may rotate in receiving socket 908 of the second ball joint connector 120 while staying releasably attached. This allows for a curvature to be formed when multiple ball joint connectors 120 are connected in line. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the size of C- shaped wall 912 of the second ball joint connector 120 surrounding the ball head 904 of the first ball joint connector 120 may affect the angle of maximum curvature between the first and second ball joint connectors 120. Specifically, the more encompassing C-shaped wall 912 of the second ball joint connector 120 is around / surrounding ball head 904 of the first ball joint connector 120, the smaller the angle of curvature between the first and second ball joint connector 120. Similarly, the less encompassing C-shaped wall 912 of the second ball joint connector 120 is around / surrounding ball head 904 of the first ball joint connector 120, the greater the angle of curvature between the first and second ball joint connector 120. However, a person skilled in the art will also recognize that there is a minimum size of C-shaped wall 912 to ensure that a friction fit is maintained between the first and second ball joint connector 120. To that end, a person skilled in the art will recognize the different sizes that C-shaped wall 912 and ball head 904 may be contemplated while maintaining a friction fit. A person skilled in the art will also recognize the different sizes that C-shaped wall 912 and ball head 904 may be in to achieve a certain angle of curvature that may be required for face mask 100. In the current embodiment, the C-shaped wall 912 allows for a range of motion up to 120 degrees while maintaining the secure connection with ball head 904 through friction. Ball joint connectors 120 may provide a curvature and conformation to contours as small as 10mm by decreasing the size of each clasp and node unit.

[0071] Similar to M-shaped unit 140, ball joint connector 120 may be made of any rigid material including, but not limited to, polymers (thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers, either synthetic, naturally occurring, or natural-derived polymers), ceramics (oxide ceramics and non-oxide ceramics), pure metals and metal alloys, composites with the aforementioned materials as matrices (polymer matrix composites, metal matrix composites, and ceramic matrix composites), hybrid of aforementioned materials (polymer-ceramic hybrids and metal-ceramic hybrids).

[0072] A person skilled in the art will recognize that other embodiments of ball joint connector 120 may be contemplated, including, but not limited to, shape memory materials and / or structures such as nitinol or aluminmum wires and gooseneck coiled tubing, and / or an elastic strung joint. An elastic strung joint may include a ball head, a socket, and an elastic cord to hold the angle of the ball head and socket, maintaining the position when bent.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 13 through 16, top connector M-shaped unit 144 is depicted. Top connector M-shaped unit 144 may include a ball joint connector 120A connected along the tope edge of a M-shaped unit 140 A. Ball joint connector 120A is similar in structure to ball joint connector 120. Specifically, ball head 1304, connector 1316, C- shaped wall 1312 and receiving socket 1308 are similar in structure, arrangement and configuration to ball head 904, connector 916, C-shaped wall 912 and receiving socket 908. M-shaped unit 140A is similar in structure to M-shaped unit 140. Specifically, the tubular frame / members of M-shaped unit 140 A, and connection points 1312A and 1312B are similar in structure, arrangement and configuration to the tubular frame / members of M-shaped unit 140, and connection points 508A and 508B.

[0074] However, with respect to top connector M-shaped unit 144, C-shaped wall 1312 is partially connected along the top edge of M-shaped unit 140 A in proximity to the right side of M-shaped unit 140A. For further clarity, C-shaped wall 1312 is connected to M- shaped unit 140 A in proximity to the top right comer of M-shaped unit 140 A. The connection between C-shaped wall 1312 and the top edge of M-shaped unit 140A is rigid making top connector M-shaped unit 144 a single piece. The rigidity of the connection also improves structural integrity of face mask 100 and its components. As ball joint connector 120A runs parallel and in close proximity to the top edge of M-shaped unit 140 A, there are no connection points along the top of M-shaped unit 140A. Specifically,connection points 1312A and 1312B are available to connect to other M-shaped units 140.

[0075] Similar to M-shaped unit 140 and ball joint connector 120, top connector M- shaped unit 144 may be made of any rigid material including, but not limited to, polymers (thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers, either synthetic, naturally occurring, or natural-derived polymers), ceramics (oxide ceramics and non-oxide ceramics), pure metals and metal alloys, composites with the aforementioned materials as matrices (polymer matrix composites, metal matrix composites, and ceramic matrix composites), hybrid of aforementioned materials (polymer-ceramic hybrids and metal-ceramic hybrids).

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 17 through 20, bottom connector M-shaped unit 116 is depicted. Bottom connector M-shaped unit 116 may include a ball joint connector 120B connected along the bottom edge of a M-shaped unit 140B. Ball joint connector 120B is similar in structure to ball joint connector 120. Specifically, ball head 1708, connector 1720, C-shaped wall 1716 and receiving socket 1712 are similar in structure, arrangement and configuration to ball head 904, connector 916, C-shaped wall 912 and receiving socket 908. M-shaped unit 140B is similar in structure to M-shaped unit 140. Specifically, the tubular frame / members of M-shaped unit 140B, and connection points 1704A and 1704B are similar in structure, arrangement and configuration to the tubular frame / members of M-shaped unit 140, and connection points 508A and 508B.

[0077] However, with respect to bottom connector M-shaped unit 116, C-shaped wall 1716 is partially connected along the bottom edge of M-shaped unit 140B in proximity to the right side of M-shaped unit 140A. For further clarity, C-shaped wall 1716 is connected to M-shaped unit 140B in proximity to the bottom right comer of M-shaped unit 140B. The connection between C-shaped wall 1716 and the bottom edge of M- shaped unit 140B is rigid making bottom connector M-shaped unit 116 a single piece. The rigidity of the connection also improves structural integrity of face mask 100 and its components. As ball joint connector 120B runs parallel and in close proximity to the bottom edge of M-shaped unit 140B, there are no connection points along the bottom of M-shaped unit 140B. Specifically, connection points 1704A and 1704B are available to connect to other M-shaped units 140.

[0078] Similar to M-shaped unit 140 and ball joint connector 120, bottom connector M- shaped unit 116 may be made of any rigid material including, but not limited to, polymers (thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers, either synthetic, naturally occurring, or natural-derived polymers), ceramics (oxide ceramics and non-oxide ceramics), pure metals and metal alloys, composites with the aforementioned materials as matrices (polymer matrix composites, metal matrix composites, and ceramic matrix composites), hybrid of aforementioned materials (polymer-ceramic hybrids and metal-ceramic hybrids).

[0079] In the current embodiment, the flexible structure of face mask 100 and the components of face mask 100, including forehead section 104, left temple section 108 A, right temple section 108B, left cheek section 112A and right cheek section 112B include arrangements of a plurality of M-shaped units 140, ball joint connectors 120, top connector M-shaped units 144, and bottom connector M-shaped units 116. Specifically, in a preferred embodiment, the core of forehead section 104, left temple section 108 A, right temple section 108B, left cheek section 112A and right cheek section 112B generally includes a plurality of interlocking M-shaped units 140, while the top and bottom edges of forehead section 104, left temple section 108A, right temple section 108B, left cheek section 112A and right cheek section 112B generally include top connector M-shaped units 144 and bottom connector M-shaped units 116 respectively, along with a mixture of ball joint connectors 120.

[0080] For example, forehead section 104 may include a core with a plurality of overlapping rows of M-shaped units 140. The top edge of forehead section 104 includes a mixture of a plurality of top connector M-shaped units 144 and ball joint connectors 120. More specifically, the top edge of forehead section 104 includes a ball joint connector 120 in between each top connector M-shaped unit 144 to provide additional structural integrity while allowing for flexibility and curvature. The bottom edge of forehead section 104 includes the connect on / engagement points with left temple section 108 A and right temple section 108B, and brow line 132. The bottom edge of forehead section 104 includes a plurality of bottom connector M-shaped units 116, where every space between each of the plurality of bottom connector M-shaped unit 116 is either a top connector M-shaped unit 144 of left temple section 108A, a top connector M-shaped unit 144 of right temple section 108B or a ball j oint connector 120 (along brow line 132).

[0081] Left temple section 108A, right temple section 108B, left cheek section 112A and right cheek section 112B includes similar arrangements or configurations of M-shaped units 140, ball joint connectors 120, top connector M-shaped units 144 and bottom connection M-shaped unit 116. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the arrangement and configuration of M-shaped units 140, ball joint connectors 120, top connector M-shaped units 144 and bottom connection M-shaped unit 116 to create different components of face mask 100 are not limited to the proposed above-mentioned configuration / arrangement, and that other configurations / arrangements are contemplated.

[0082] Furthermore, ball joint connectors 120 are strategically placed along four lines horizontally across the face on face mask 100: parallel to the hairline, parallel to the eyebrows, beneath the eyes, and around the chin and jawline. This placement allows for precise adjustment to individual facial contours and accommodation to shape curvatures such as the nose. Furthermore, this configuration allows for compact storage when rolled up.

[0083] The primary purpose of this structure is to securely position electrodes in contact with the face, addressing the challenges of creating a reusable, hygienic, and adaptable framework for facial electrode placement. By using rigid, interlocking units with shapememory connectors instead of traditional fabric, the design offers several advantages, including, but not limited to, (i) providing easy maintenance, as the construction allows for simple rinsing with water, allowing for daily cleaning; (ii) providing breathability, as the open structure of M-shaped units 140, ball joint connectors 120, top connector M- shaped units 144 and bottom connection M-shaped unit 116 minimizes skin coverage, promoting air circulation; (iii) providing flexibility in structure, as the chainmail-like assembly conforms to different facial contours; (iv) providing durability, as the use of rigid units potentially increase the longevity of face mask 100 compared to fabric based alternatives; and (v) providing ease of replacement, as if one or a few M-shaped units 140, ball joint connectors 120, top connector M-shaped units 144 and bottom connection M-shaped units 116 get damaged, they can be replaced easily.

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 21 through 24, the depiction of shape memory wires and electrical wires running through a plurality of M-shaped units 140 is provided. Shape memory wires 2104 and 2108 may run through the members / tubular frames of M-shaped units 140. In a preferred embodiment, M-shaped units 140 include holes 2116 runningalong the top and bottom members of M-shaped unit 140. Shape memory wires 2104 and 2108 may run through said holes 2116. For greater clarity, shape memory wires 2104 and 2108 may be threaded through several M-shaped units 140 via holes 2116, stringing together several M-shaped units 140. Shape memory wires 2104 and 2108 may be braided shape-memory nitinol wires or aluminum wires. The number of wires, type of braid, and wire diameter of the shape memory wires 2104 and 2108 are variables that may change depending on the critical bending radius or curvature required between M-shaped units 140.

[0085] In other embodiments, instead of holes 2116, indents along the surface of the tubular frame of M-shaped units 140 may retain shape memory wires 2104 and 2108, and electrical wire 2112 in place. A person skilled in the art will recognize that different mechanisms for retaining and holding shape memory wires 2104, 2108 and electrical wire 2112 in place are contemplated.

[0086] In other embodiments (not shown), goosenecks may be used instead of shape memory wires. A person skilled in the art will recognize that different members that maintain their shape when force is applied may be contemplated as alternatives to shape memory wires.

[0087] As previously discussed, M-shaped units 140 include a hollow allowing electrical wire 2112 to be threaded through. Electrical wire 2112 connects the electrodes of face mask 100 with other electrical components, including, but not limited to, controllers and power sources.

[0088] While in the current embodiment, face mask 100 includes forehead section 104, left temple section 108A, right temple section 108B, left cheek section 112A and right cheek section 112B, a person skilled in the art that different components may be contemplated to cover any part of the user’s face. A person skilled in the art will also recognize that while face mask 100 is used for a user’s face, the structure and configuration of face mask 100 may also be used to cover the skin on any other part of a user’s body.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 25 through 27, an alternative embodiment of face mask 100 is provided as face mask 2700. Face mask 2700 includes forehead section 2500 and left cheek section 2600A and right cheek section 2600B. Face mask 2700 may be made of atleast two layers of mylar sheets sandwiching a plurality of shape memory wires and electrical wires. Mylar sheets are flexible and easy to manipulate ensuring close contact with the user’s face no matter the shape. In the current embodiment, the mylar sheets may have a thickness of 2 mm or less. Materials other than mylar may also be contemplated, including, but not limited to, materials in sheets of 0.05 mm to 2 mm thickness including: polymers (Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polycarbonate (PC), Poly ether ether ketone (PEEK), and Medical-grade silicone sheets), metals (titanium foil and stainless steel), reinforced composites (carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) and glass fiber reinforced polymers (GFRP)), natural-derived materials (cellulose-based materials and modified silk fibroin sheets), synthetic materials(polyurethane (PU) films and polyimide (PI) sheets), and hybrids of the aforementioned materials.

[0090] Forehead section 2500 is generally rectangular shaped and includes cut-out 2504. Cut-out 2504 is to allow the right and left side of forehead section 2500 to overlap one another without having excess material. Attachment points 2508 allow the right side of forehead section 2500 to releasbly attach to the left side of forehead section 2500 when right side and left side of forehead section 2500 overlap. In the current embodiment, attachment points 2508 are Dial Lock Strap, however, other attachable means are contemplated for attachment points 2508 such as Velcro strips, hook and loop fasteners, magnetic buckles, and / or elastic bands. Furthermore, attachment points 2508 may be of differing sizes in different embodiments to allow for different amounts of overlap of surface area between the right side and left side of forehead section 2500, to accommodate for different forehead shapes.

[0091] The mylar sheet of forehead section 2500 may also include laser cuts 2512 and holes 2516. Laser cuts 2512 are performed on the mylar sheet of forehead section 2500 to provide additional flexibility in manipulating and creating curvatures so as to ensure maximum surface area contact with the user’s face. In the current embodiment, laser cuts 2512 are triangular hole patterns to provide for additional flexibility. Holes 2516 provide an area for electrodes or other electronic components to be held. Holes 2516 may also be laser cut. Depending on the placement of the electrodes on forehead section 2500 and the shape and topography of the user’s face, a plurality of laser cuts 2512 and holes 2516 are provided on forehead section 2500. A person skilled in the art will recognize that not allof the proposed cuts depicted in FIG. 25 need to be performed, and that other shapes and sizes of cuts may also be contemplated.

[0092] Left cheek section 2600A and right cheek section 2600B may be of any shape to conform to a user’s cheeks. Similar to cut-out 2504 of forehead section 2500, cut-outs 2608A of left cheek section 2600A and cut-outs 2608B of right cheek section 2600B allow sections of left cheek section 2600A to overlap one another. More specifically, cutout 2608A allows an upper portion of left cheek section 2600A and a lower portion of left cheek section 2600A to overlap. Attachment point 2604A may connect to attachment point 2620A to releasbly attach said upper portion of left cheek section 2600A and lower portion of left cheek section 2600A when overlapping.

[0093] Similar to cut-out 2504 of forehead section 2500, cut-outs 2608B of right cheek section 2600B and cut-outs 2608B of right cheek section 2600B allow sections of right cheek section 2600B to overlap one another. More specifically, cut-out 2608B allows an upper portion of right cheek section 2600B and a lower portion of right cheek section 2600B to overlap. Attachment point 2604B may connect to attachment point 2620B to releasbly attach said upper portion of right cheek section 2600B and lower portion of right cheek section 2600B when overlapping.

[0094] In the current embodiment, attachment points 2604A, 2620 A, 2604B, 2620B are Velcro strips, or hook and loop fasteners, however, other attachable means are contemplated for attachment points 2604A, 2620A, 2604B, 2620B. Furthermore, attachment points 2604A, 2620A, 2604B, 2620B may be of differing sizes in different embodiments to allow for different amounts of overlap of surface area between the upper portions and lower portions of left cheek section 2600A and right cheek section 2600B respectively, to accommodate for different cheek topographies and sizes.

[0095] The mylar sheet of left cheek section 2600A and right cheek section 2600B may also include laser cuts 2616A, 2616B and holes 2612A, 2612B. More specifically, left cheek section 2600 A may include laser cuts 2616A and holes 2612 A, and conversely right cheek section 2600B may include laser cuts 2616B and holes 2616B. Similar to laser cuts 2512, laser cuts 2616A and 2616B are performed on the mylar sheet of left cheek section 2600A and right cheek section 2600B to provide additional flexibility in manipulating and creating curvatures so as to ensure maximum surface area contact withthe user’s face. Holes 2612A and 2612B may also be laser cut and provide an area for electrodes and / or other electrical components to be held. Depending on the placement of the electrodes on left cheek section 2600A and right cheek section 2600B and the shape and topography of the user’s face, a plurality of laser cuts 2616A and 2616B and holes 2612A and 2612B are provided on left cheek section 2600A and right cheek section 2600B. A person skilled in the art will recognize that not all of the proposed cuts depicted in FIG. 26 need to be performed, and that other shapes and sizes of cuts may also be contemplated.

[0096] FIGS. 25 and 26 depict face mask 2700 in an open configuration. FIG. 27 depicts face mask 2700 in an applied configuration a user’s face. In the current embodiment, face mask 2700 is applied to user’s face 2704. As can be seen, in the applied configuration, forehead section 2500, left cheek section 2600A and right cheek section 2600B are folded over and applied to user’s face 2704. When folding over, cut-outs 2504, 2608A and 2608B are used to provide overlap of the different sides / portions of the mylar sheets, to allow for the curvature of the user’s face 2704. Additionally, forehead section 2500 is connected to left cheek section 2600A using an adjustable strap 2708A. the adjustable strap 2708A may be adjusted to accommodate the spacing between forehead section 2500 and left cheek section 2600A to allow for different sizes of eyes.

[0097] Similarly, forehead section 2500 is connected to right cheek section 2600B using an adjustable strap 2708B. The adjustable strap 2708B may be adjusted to accommodate the spacing between forehead section 2500 and right cheek section 2600B to allow for different sizes of eyes.

[0098] Additionally, left cheek section 2600A is connected to right cheek section 2600B using an adjustable strap 2712. The adjustable strap 2712 may be adjusted to accommodate the spacing between the right cheek and left cheek to allow for different nose and mouth sizes.

[0099] In another embodiments, adjustable straps 2708A, 2708B, 2712 may be other attachable and adjustable means such as Velcro strips, hook and fasteners, and removable adhesives.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 28 through 30, the layering of different embodiments of face mask 100 and face mask 2700 are provided. Specifically, the embodiment 2800provided in FIG. 28 depicts the layering of face mask 100. More specifically, layer 2804 denotes any combination or variation of M-shaped units 140, ball joint connectors 120, top connector M-shaped units 144 and bottom connector M-shaped units 116. Layer 2808 denotes shape memory wires 2104 and 2108, and electrical wires 2112. As can be seen, layer 2808 runs through layer 2804.

[0101] In another embodiment 2900 of FIG. 29, layers 2904 and 2912 denotes any combination or variation of M-shaped units 140, ball joint connectors 120, top connector M-shaped units 144 and bottom connector M-shaped units 116. Layers 2904 and 2912 may also denote any other three-dimensional layers. Layer 2908 denotes shape memory wires and electrical wires. As can be seen, layer 2908 is sandwiched between layers 2904 and 2912.

[0102] In another embodiment 3000 of FIG. 30, face mask 2700 is depicted. Specifically, layers 3004 and 3012 are planar mylar sheets. Layer 3008 denotes shape memory wires and electrical wires. As can been seen, layer 3008 is sandwiched between layers 3004 and 3012. A person skilled in the art that layers 3004 and 3012 may be two- dimensional planar flexible sheet.

[0103] In embodiments 2800, 2900, 3000, shape memory wires may be shaped to contour to a user’s face to allow for maximum surface area contact between the face mask 100, 2700 and the user’s face. Shape memory wires are advantageous for this role as they are malleable but are rigid enough to maintain the shape of the face mask unless a certain force is exerted on it to change the shape of the mask. A person skilled in the art will recognize that other materials similar to shape memory wires may be contemplated for the same role. A person skilled in the art will also recognize that layers 2808, 2908, 3008 may also include electrodes.

[0104] In embodiments 2900 and 3000 where layers 2908 and 3008 are sandwiched between two outer layers, means of adhesive or attachable means between the two outer layers may be contemplated. More specifically, in embodiment 2900 layers 2904 and 2912 may be adhered together to sandwich layer 2908. In another embodiment, layers 2904 and 2912 may be snap-fit together to sandwich layer 2908. With regards to embodiment 3000, layers 3004 and 3012 may be adhered together to sandwich layer3008. A person skilled in the art will recognize the different means of connecting the two outer layers and sandwiching the middle layer.

[0105] In an alternative embodiment of the structure for face mask 100 (not shown), flexible, interlocking and / or chainmail-like structure of interlocking units may be used without integrated shape memory connectors. Users he down during application, allowing gravity to ensure conformity to facial contours. This approach simplifies the structure but requires a specific user position for optimal fit.

[0106] In yet another embodiment of the structure for face mask 100 (not shown), an array of small, adjustable metal rods that can protrude in or out are provided. When pressed against the face, the rods create a detailed impression of facial contours. Wire joints then lock the rods in place, maintaining the custom shape for subsequent use.

[0107] In yet another embodiment of the structure for facemask 100 (not shown), electronic and mechanical systems are provided to dynamically adjust electrode height. The mechanism activates until each electrode makes contact with the facial surface, automatically stopping upon detecting skin contact. This approach allows for precise, individualized electrode placement without manual adjustment.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 31, schematic 3100 provides a sample hardware diagram of the electrical components that may be used for face mask 100 or face mask 2700. Schematic 3100 integrates at least a power supply, wave generator, controller and conductive electrodes. Specifically, a power supply is provided at 3104. The power supply 3104 may be an form of AC or DC power, including but not limited to, a portable battery or a AA or AAA battery. The power supply provides power to the wave generator and controller at block 3108 and an amplifier at block 3124. Power is also supplied to hydration sensors 3112 and thermal sensors 3116. The power supply 3104 also provides power to a Bluetooth communications interface 3120. A person skilled in the art will recognize that other configurations and arrangements of the above-mentioned electrical components may be contemplated. A person skilled in the art will also recognize that different physiological sensors may be contemplated. A person skilled in the art will also recognize different communication interfaces 3120 may be contemplated.

[0109] Wave generator and controller at block 3108 and amplifier at block 3124 provide different pulses and waves of electricity to the electrodes on face mask 100 or2700. By doing so, radio frequency skin-tightening, rhytid and wrinkle treatment for skincare purposes through pulses of milliseconds (ms) in length and silence time of seconds are provided to the electrodes in contact with skin on the user’s face. In addition, muscle stimulations between 20-50 Hz in the milliamps (mA) range to induce muscle contraction may also be provided to electrodes. Furthermore, voltage is delivered to the skin to improve skincare absorption through iontophoresis. Other factors that wave generator and controller at block 3108 and amplifier at block 3124 may control include amplitude, frequency, pulse shape, pulse width and silencing time, and duration. In a preferred embodiment, the radio frequency treatment output to the electrodes is an alternating current with a frequency of between 0.3 to 10 Mhz. The waveform used, may be sinusoidal, triangular, rectangular pulses or any combination of sine waves. The amplitude of the wave form may be up to ± 40 V. The AC pulse is fired on and off at a time period of 200 milliseconds on and 1 second off. The duration that the AC pulse is fired at may vary and my be dependent on the temperature.

[0110] Sensors including humidity sensors 3112 and thermal sensors 3116 may measure different attributes of the skin when the face mask 100 or 2700 is applied to the user’s face. Sensor readings / sensor data may be gathered by said hydration sensors 3112 and thermal sensors 3116 to be sent to an external database via communications interface 3120. In the current embodiment, sensor readings / sensor data may be sent to user device 3238 to be displayed on a graphical user interface or logged in a database.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 32, a schematic diagram of system 3200 is provided. System 3200 includes server 3204 in communication over network 3228 with user device 3238, camera 3234 and 3D printer 3230. User device 3238 may use camera 3234 to take photographs of the face of a user and send the photograph to server 3204. Server 3204 then analyzes the photograph of the face of the user to detect the location of the wrinkles, and provides suggestions as to where the most wrinkles may be. The location of the wrinkles is then provided back to user device 3238 for display to the user. 3D printer 3230 may then begin printing face mask 100, where holders for electrodes may also be built into the components / pieces of face mask 100.

[0112] FIG. 32 depicts system 3200 for the detection of wrinkles on a user’s face, and the creation of optimal placement for electrodes for the reduction of said wrinkles. Specifically, server 3204 of system 3200 communicates with user device 3238, camera3234, and 3D printer 3230 via network 3228. Components of system 3200 will be discussed further in detail below.

[0113] More specifically, server 3204 is where image analysis is performed to detect where wrinkles are on a user’s face based on a photograph of the user. Server 3200 includes a processor 3208 interconnecting a memory 3216 and a communications interface 3212. The processor can include a central-processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a processing core, a field- programmable gate array (FPGA), or similar. In some embodiments, the processor 3208 can include multiple cooperating processors. The processor 3208 can cooperate with non- transitory computer readable medium, such as the memory 3216 to execute instructions to realize the functionality discussed herein.

[0114] Memory 3216 can include a combination of volatile memory (e.g. Random Access Memory or RAM) and non-volatile memory (e.g. non-volatile randomaccess memory, read only memory or ROM, Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only memory or EEPROM, flash memory). All or some of the memory 3216 can be integrated with processor 3208. Memory 3216 stores computer reasonable instructions for execution by processor 3208.

[0115] It will now be apparent that each element of memory 3216 can be carried out by the processor 3208 executing operations. In other words, functionality described below as being carried out by a module of memory 3216 or a module of server 3204 can be based on any known server environment.

[0116] In some embodiments, memory 3216 stores a plurality of computer- readable data and programming instructions, accessible by processor 3208, in the form of software objects, such as various applications, queries or types of data for use during the execution of those applications. In particular, the execution of the instructions in memory 3216 by processor 3208 allow for the manipulation and analysis of photographs or images of a user to determine the location of wrinkles on a user’s face, hence providing optimal placement of electrodes on face mask 100, and the creation of a 3-D fde for 3-D printing to create face mask 100. The person skilled in the art will recognize the various forms of computer readable programming instructions stored in memory 3216 that can be executed by processor 3208 as applications.

[0117] In at least some embodiments, memory 3216 stores image analysis engine 3220. In a preferred embodiment, photos are taken by camera 3234 and are sent to image analysis engine 3220. The execution of image analysis engine 3220 first performs face parsing on the photo received, to remove known face features (eyebrows, eyes, nose, mouth, etc.). Image analysis engine 3220 then allows for wrinkle detection and mapping through an image processing algorithm, specifically by comparing a contrast between neighbouring pixels to determine if there is a topographical change indicating a potential wrinkle. This will be further discussed below. In alternate embodiments, image analysis engine 3220 may also use other forms of image analysis or topographical analysis to detect the location of wrinkles on a user’s face based on a photo of the user’s face. A person skilled in the art will recognize the different functions of image analysis engine 3220.

[0118] In at least some embodiments, memory 3216 stores 3D fde generator 3224. In a preferred embodiment, the location of wrinkles determined by image analysis engine 3220 on user’s face is provided to 3D fde generator 3224. The topographical data of a user’s face taken from the user’s photo and provided by image analysis engine 3220 may also be provided to 3D fde generator 3224. 3D fde generator 3224 may then generate a 3D fde for the printing of a face mask 100 with electrode holders provided in optimal placement on face mask 100. 3D fde generator 3224 may then instruct 3D printer 3230 via communications interface 3212 and network 3228 to print face mask 100. A person skilled in the art will recognize the different functions of 3D fde generator 3224.

[0119] Turning now to communications interface 3212, it allows for processor 3208 to communicate with network 3228. Communications interface 3212 includes suitable hardware (e.g. transmitters, receivers, network interface controllers and the like) allowing server 3204 to communicate with other components in system 3200, such as 3D printer 3230, camera 3234 and user device 3238. The specific components of communications interface 3212 may be selected based on the type of network or other links server 3204 may be required to communicate over.

[0120] Server 3204 may also include input devices that connect to processor 3208, such as a keyboard and mouse, as well as output devices, such as a display. Alternatively, or in addition, the input and output devices can be connected to processor3208 via communications interface 3212 via another computer device. In other words, input and output devices can be local to server 3204 or remote.

[0121] In the preferred embodiment, network 3228 is a wide area network (WAN) but a person skilled in the art will recognize that network 3228 is not particularly limited in its configuration. Network 3228 may be any form of network, including a local area network (LAN), or the Internet, and may be accessed by computers, mobile devices or the components of system 3200. Server 3204, 3D printer 3230, camera 3224 and user device 3238 can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers or other devices, such as a server, a router, a network personal computer, a personal computer, a peer device or other common network node, a wireless telephone or wireless personal digital assistant. In the current embodiment, network 3228 may be implemented over the Internet. The standards or protocols used for the network may include any form of transmission, such as Transmission Control Protocol / Intemet Protocol (TCP / IP), User Datagram Protocol / Intemet Protocol (UDP / IP), Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) and Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTP). In addition, any desired levels and types of security and encryption protocols are contemplated and can be implemented over network 3228. A person skilled in the art will recognize the different potential network types and different potential network configurations that may be used, along with the different standards and protocols of transmission within the network, and the different forms of security and encryption protocols available. Furthermore, as the data being transmitted between components of system 3200, including between server 3204, 3D printer 3230, camera 3224 and user device 3238 may be considered sensitive personal information and photographs of user’s faces, industry standards for encryption in flight and encryption at rest may be applied or used.

[0122] In a preferred embodiment, communication between the components of system 3200 occur over network 3228. Specifically, communication between any one of image analysis engine 3220, 3D file generator 3224 or other instructions to be executed by processor 3208, with any one of the other components of system 3200 external to server 3204, communicate using communications interface 3212 over network 3228. As an example, in the current embodiment, image analysis engine 3220 may receive data and photographs of user’s faces from user device 3238 from communications interface 3212 via network 3228. In another example, 3D file generator 3224 may send 3D files to3D printer 3230 using communications interface 3212 via network 3228. Other forms of communication over network 3228 by image analysis engine 3220 and 3D file generator 3224 are contemplated and will be further explained below. A person skilled in the art will recognize the other potential functions or instructions provided to processor 3208 that may use communications interface 3212 and network 3228.

[0123] User device 3238 may be a computer device such as, but not limited to, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, another server, a kiosk, a cell phone, a tablet, a mobile device, a monitor or other suitable device. In a preferred embodiment, user device 3238 is a mobile device. A person skilled in the art will also appreciate that other, different configurations of user device 3238 are contemplated. It will also occur to a person skilled in the art that system 3200 may include more than user device 3238.

[0124] User device 3238 may include input devices and output devices. In the present embodiment, user device 3238 may include a display that outputs graphical user interfaces. Specifically, user device 3238 may provide the graphical user interfaces shown in FIGS. 35 through 45. In one embodiment, graphical user interfaces may be provided locally as an application on user device 3238. Data provided by the user through the local graphical user interface on user device 3238 may then be sent to server 3204 for processing or server 3204 may pull the data through means, such as an Application Programming Interface (API). In another embodiment, server 3204 may provide said graphical user interfaces to user device 3238, and user device 3238 may act as a thin client. For example, the graphical user interface may be provided by server 3204, and user device 3238 may access the graphical user interface through a browser, a web application or other means of providing display information from server 3204.

[0125] Camera 3234 may be an imaging device such as, but not limited to, a digital camera or a scanner or other suitable device. In a preferred embodiment, camera 3234 is a high-resolution camera. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that different configurations of camera 3234 may be contemplated. For example, camera 3234 may be a stand-alone device such as a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. Alternatively, camera 3234 may be integrated into user device 3238 where user device 3238 is a mobile phone. In other embodiments, camera 3234 may be a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) depth sensor, or a TrueDepth Camera from an Apple device.

[0126] 3D printer 3230 prints 3D objects. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that different materials may be used in 3D printer 3230, which will produce components for face mask 100 in said different materials. In an alternate embodiment, 3D printer 3230 may be a computer numerical control (CNC) machine where fabrications may be programmed and made by the CNC machine. In yet another embodiment, 3D printer 3230 may be a laser cutter, where mylar material may be provided and the laser cutter may cut the mylar material appropriately to create face mask 2700. A person skilled in the art will recognize the different devices that 3D printer 3230 may be and how it may be connected to system 3200.

[0127] A person skilled in the art will recognize the different configurations and arrangements of components in system 3200. For example, in a different embodiment, image analysis engine 3220 and 3D file generator 3224 may be local to user device 3238.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 33, an example method 3300 of detecting wrinkles using system 3200 is provided. More specifically, in the current embodiment, an example method 3300 of detecting wrinkles using image analysis engine 3220 is provided. Image analysis engine 3220 assesses wrinkle severity from user-provided photos. After normalizing and resizing the uploaded image, the image analysis engine 3220 may utilize MediaPipe to identify a front-facing human face and crop the image accordingly. The algorithm then marks key facial landmarks and segments the skin into distinct regions: forehead, eyes, cheeks, nose, mouth, and chin. Within these areas of interest, a specialized wrinkle detection algorithm, based on the Frangi method, analyzes pixel contrast and linear patterns. This process identifies wrinkles by detecting high-contrast lines that exhibit linear characteristics, and cross-references the detected lines with facial landmarks to ensure that edges of features like eyebrows, eyeglasses, nose, and lips are not misclassified as wrinkles. Ultimately, the wrinkle severity is quantified by calculating the ratio of wrinkle-occupied pixels to total face pixels. The image analysis engine 3220 also provides visual feedback by mapping the detected wrinkles onto both the user's original image and a schematic facial diagram, offering a clear and comprehensive representation of qualitative wrinkle location and quantitative wrinkle severity.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 35, screenshot 3500 depicts an example graphical user interface where a user may initiate the process of wrinkle detection. More specifically, screenshot 3500 depicts a dashboard where original unmodified photos 3504 aredisplayed and where photos with highlights indicating where wrinkles are detected 3508 are displayed.

[0130] At block 3305, a photograph may be taken of a user’s face. Alternatively, a photograph or image may be uploaded. Referring to FIG. 36, screenshot 3600 depicts an example graphical user interface where a user may choose or select an image to upload or take a photo of the user’s face. A user may select the choose button 3604 to provide an image through either one of the above-mentioned means.

[0131] Blocks, 3310, 3315, 3320 and 3325 relate to face parsing the photograph of the user’s face. Blocks 3335, 3340, 3345 and 3350 relate to wrinkle detection and mapping.

[0132] At block 3310, image analysis engine 3220 detects the front-facing human face. Upon detection of the human face, at block 3315, the image is cropped and the face is centered on the image.

[0133] At block 3330, after detecting the human face at block 3310 and cropping the image to centre the face at block 3315, the total face area is calculated. The calculated total face area will be used further on in the analysis at blocks 3340 and 3350 and will be discussed further below.

[0134] At block 3320, facial feature landmarks are detected. Facial feature landmarks include eyes, nose, mouth, eyebrows etc. At block 3325, skin regions are segmented based on nearby facial feature landmarks. Skin regions may include the forehead section, the cheek section, the temple section etc.

[0135] At block 3335, image analysis engine 3220 locates pixels in a linear pattern and with high contrast to neighbouring pixels. This location algorithm allows for the detection of potential wrinkles.

[0136] At block 3340, using the calculated total face area from block 3330, the found facial landmarks from block 3320 and the location of potential wrinkles based on pixels in a linear pattern and with high contrast to neighbouring pixels as detected at block 3335, wrinkles are verified in comparison to other facial features or edges of facial features.

[0137] At block 3345, wrinkle distribution is visualized by mapping it to the photo of the user’s face and showcasing it in the graphical user interface on user device 3238. Referring to FIG. 37, screenshot 3700 depicts an example graphical user interface where after wrinkle detection has been visualized by mapping it to the photograph of the user’s face 3716. At image 3712, the wrinkle detection has also been mapped to a schematic of the user’s face. Button 3704 allows the user to select a different photograph to upload for image analysis. Button 3708 allows the user to confirm that the wrinkle detection displayed appears accurate. In other embodiments, image analysis engine 3220 may also provide a 3D mesh of the user’s face based on a set of photographs.

[0138] At block 3350, wrinkle severity is assessed by image analysis engine 3220. Wrinkle severity is assessed by taking the ratio of wrinkle area over the calculated face area from block 3330.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 38, screenshot 3800 depicts another example graphical user interface where a different user has provided their photo and wrinkle detection has been visualized by mapping to the photograph of the user’s face 3816. Similar to screenshot 3700, at image 3812, the wrinkle detection has also been mapped to a schematic of the user’s face. Button 3804 allows the user to select a different photograph to upload for image analysis. Button 3808 allows the user to confirm that the wrinkle detection displayed appears accurate. Upon selecting button 3808 to confirm the wrinkle detection accuracy, the user is shown screenshot 3900 at FIG. 39 where the skin smoothness / wrinkle severity percentage is provided. As can be seen in this example, at interface 3904, a skin smoothness of 9.10% is shown. Referring to FIG. 40, screenshot 4000 depicts an example graphical user interface of the original image of the user’s face 4004. The user can then compare the original image with the schematic.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 41, screenshot 4100 depicts another example graphical user interface where a different user has provided their photo and wrinkle detection has been visualized by mapping to the photograph of the user’s face 4116. In this example, the user clearly has more wrinkles than the example user provided in screenshot 3800. Similar to screenshot 3800, at image 4112, the wrinkle detection has also been mapped to a schematic of the user’s face. As can be seen, there is a greater surface area indicated where wrinkles are detected. Button 4104 allows the user to select a different photograph to upload for image analysis. Button 4108 allows the user to confirm that the wrinkledetection displayed appears accurate. Upon selecting button 4108 to confirm the wrinkle detection accuracy, the user is shown screenshot 4200 at FIG. 42 where the skin smoothness / wrinkle severity percentage is provided. As can be seen in this example, at interface 4204, a skin smoothness of 43.7% is shown. This verifies the findings and mapping of this user in comparison to the user in screenshot 3800. Referring to FIG. 43, screenshot 4300 depicts an example graphical user interface of the original image of the user’s face 4304. The user can then compare the original image with the schematic.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 44, screenshot 4400 depicts an example graphical user interface of the dashboard where original images 4404 are displayed as photographs 4408, 4412 and 4416, and where the mapping / highlighting of detected wrinkles 4420 are displayed as photographs 4424, 4428, 4430. Specifically, photographs 4408 and 4424 relate to a first user’s original photograph and wrinkle-mapped photograph respectively. Photographs 4412 and 4428 relate to a second user’s original photograph and wrinklemapped photograph respectively. Photographs 4416 and 4430 relate to a third user’s original photograph and wrinkle-mapped photograph respectively.

[0142] By mapping the wrinkle distribution and by assessing wrinkle severity, image analysis engine 3220 is able to determine where the wrinkles are on a user’s face and how severe the wrinkles are at those locations and hence is able to provide optimal placement of electrodes to 3D file generator 3224 leading to printing face mask 100 on 3D printer 3230.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 34, an example method 3400 of detecting humidity or the amount of moisture is provided. At blocks 3405 and 3410 electricity is sent though the electrodes on face mask 100 at 0.1-1000 Hz AC. At block 3415, the resulting voltage between at least two electrodes is measured. At block 3420 the capacitance and conductance are calculated based on the measured voltage between at least two electrodes. At block 3425, the calculated capacitance and conductance is compared against the individual’s 30-days baseline which may be stored in a database (not shown).

[0144] Subsequently, at block 3405 and 3430, electricity is sent through the same at least two electrodes as provided above in block 3415 on face mask 100 at 40-100 kHz AC. At block 3435, the resulting voltage between the same at least two electrodes is measured At block 3440 the impedance is calculated based on the measured voltagebetween at least two electrodes used at block 3435. At block 3445, the calculated impedance is compared against individual’s 30-days baseline which may be stored in a database (not shown).

[0145] Concurrently, at block 3450 and 3455, humidity sensors 3112 (also referred to herein as hydration sensor 3112) that are not in contact with the skin measures relative humidity. In this embodiment (not shown), humidity sensors may be installed on face mask 100 and are approximately 5mm away from the skin. At block 3460, the measured relative humidity is compared against 30-days baseline which may be stored in a database (not shown).

[0146] At block 3465 using the values and results generated from blocks 3425, 3445 and 3460, the skin hydration value change may be determined. Referring to FIG. 45, screenshot 4500 depicts an example graphical user interface where humidity percentage tracking may be displayed at interface 4504.

[0147] Screenshot 4500 also depicts skin temperature at interface 4508 taken from thermal sensors 3116. Thermal sensors 3116 and hydration sensors 3112 may be toggled on and off at button 4512.

[0148] In other embodiments (not shown), the graphical user interface may also recommend certain other skincare products based on the findings of image analysis engine 3220 in the wrinkle detection analysis, or if the user’s skin hydration value is too high or too low.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 46 through 51, schematics / circuit diagrams 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, 5000, 5100 are provided for electrical components for face mask 100. In the current embodiment, circuits 4600 of FIG. 46 and circuit 4800 of FIG. 48 represent controller and wave generator block 3108. Circuit 4700 of FIG. 47 and circuit 5100 of FIG. 51 represent power supply block 3104. Circuit 4900 of FIG. 49 represents amplifier block 3124. Circuit 5000 of FIG. 50 represents Bluetooth communications interface block 3120. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the abovementioned circuit diagrams 4600, 4700, 4800, 4900, 5000, 5100 are just one embodiment of potential circuit configurations for the electrical components of face mask 100, and that other configurations and arrangements for the circuits of electrical components are contemplated.

[0150] Although the foregoing description and accompanying drawings to specific preferred embodiments of the present invention as presently contemplated by the inventor, it will be understood that various changes, modifications and adaptations, may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

THE EMBODIMENTS FOR WHICH AN EXCLUSIVE PRIVILEGE OR PROPERTY IS CLAIMED ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A face mask device, comprising: a flexible substrate formed as a tessellated array of rigid interlocking units, each unit having opposed top and bottom flat faces and interlocking multi-leg loops that mechanically engage immediately adjacent units; a forehead section including a central flexible substrate, a bottom edge, a right edge and a left edge; a right temple section including a central flexible substrate, a top edge and a bottom edge, the top edge of the right temple section connected to the forehead section along the bottom edge of the forehead section in proximity to the right edge of the forehead section; a nose bridge section including pressure-redistribution pieces with releasable attachments connectable to other sections; a right cheek section including a central flexible substrate, a top edge and a left edge, the top edge of the right cheek section releasably attached to the nose bridge section; a left temple section including a central flexible substrate, a top edge and a bottom edge, the top edge of left temple section connected to the forehead section along the bottom edge of the forehead section in proximity to the left edge of the forehead section; a left cheek section including a central flexible substrate, a top edge and a right edge, the top edge of the left cheek section releasably attached to the nose bridge section; a chin strap placed between the left edge of the right cheek section and the right edge of the left cheek section; and a plurality of electrodes and sensors connected to printed circuit boards configured to supply power, generate treatment waveforms, and receive sensor data, theplurality of electrodes and sensors placed on the forehead section, the right temple section, the right cheek section, the left temple section, and the left cheek section.

2. A method of detecting wrinkles on a user’s face, the method comprising: providing an image of the user’s face; cropping the image and centering the user’s face; detecting facial feature landmarks in the image; segmenting skin regions based on the facial feature landmarks; locating pixels in a linear pattern and with a high contrast to neighbouring pixels; and classifying wrinkles from the edges of facial features.

3. A method of manufacturing a face mask with electrodes for a user, the method comprising: locating the wrinkles on a user’s face by performing the method of claim 2; generating a 3D fde for the face mask in which a plurality of holders are located at a plurality of wrinkle locations, wherein each of the plurality of holders is configured to mount at least one electrode, sensor, or printed circuit board module; and fabricating the face mask on a 3D printer.

Images