Three-Dimensional Mask Structure with Surface Expansion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional masks are uncomfortable to breathe through, especially for individuals with respiratory issues, due to their design which prioritizes adherence to the face over breathing convenience.

Innovation Solution

A three-dimensional mask structure featuring ear loops, wrinkle portions, and surface expansion portions with protruding shapes such as horn-shaped, column-shaped, or frustum-shaped protrusions to increase the surface area and facilitate airflow while maintaining contact with the face.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the mask is designed to close and adhere to the face for effective protection, then the prevention function is improved, but breathing comfort deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprevention functionVSAvoidbreathing comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mask body is designed with a three-dimensional structure including protruding expansion portions that extend outward from the mask body, creating concave grooves on the inner surface. This dimensional change increases the internal volume and surface area of the mask, allowing more air to pass through while maintaining effective facial sealing. The horizontal and vertical supports create a padded, multi-layered structure that enhances both protection and breathability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If the mask surface area is increased to improve breathing comfort, then airflow is improved, but the mask size and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebreathing comfortVSAvoidmask structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mask body is divided into multiple functional regions through horizontal supports and vertical supports that create distinct compartments. The protruding expansion portions are segmented into multiple sections, each contributing to the overall surface area increase. This segmentation allows the complex three-dimensional structure to be systematically organized while maintaining manufacturing feasibility and functional effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20230389634A1Mask having three-dimensional structure
Publication Date: 2023.12.07 AJOU UNIV IND ACADEMIC COOP FOUND
  • US20230389634A1 patent drawing
  • US20230389634A1 patent drawing
  • US20230389634A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a mask having a three-dimensional structure, wherein the mask may comprise: a mask body; ear loops coupled to both sides of the mask body so as to be worn on a human body; a plurality of wrinkle portions located in the horizontal direction on the mask body; and a surface expansion portion for increasing the surface area of the mask body by having a horizontal support positioned on all or part of the wrinkle portions.