Multilayer Copper Silver Filter for Pathogen Trapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current face masks are inadequate in trapping and killing pathogens due to large pore sizes, allowing viruses to pass through and remain active, and are single-use, causing logistical and environmental issues, with limited real-time health monitoring capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multilayer filter comprising copper and silver breathable layers, integrated into a face mask, glove, or respirator, which captures and kills pathogens while allowing air to pass through, and includes a temperature sensor for real-time health monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If microporous polymer material is used in face masks, then breathability is improved, but pathogen trapping efficiency deteriorates because pore sizes are too large to effectively block viruses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hierarchical porous structure with multiple layers having different pore sizes. The outer layer has larger pores for breathability, while inner layers have progressively smaller pores to trap pathogens, combining the benefits of air flow with effective pathogen blocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask combines multiple materials with different properties: hydrophobic materials for water resistance, hydrophilic materials for moisture management, and materials with specific pore structures for filtration. This composite approach allows simultaneous optimization of breathability and pathogen trapping.
2Reliability
If single-use disposable masks are used, then pathogen containment is improved, but logistical strain and environmental impact worsen due to enormous supply requirements and disposal issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a reusable mask system where masks can be sterilized and reused multiple times. The mask includes features for tracking usage and contamination status, allowing systematic recovery, sterilization, and redeployment, thereby reducing waste and logistical burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask incorporates self-monitoring capabilities including temperature sensing and contamination detection that automatically indicate when the mask requires sterilization or replacement, enabling users to manage mask maintenance without external intervention.
3Reliability
If mask layers are made thick to impede viral penetration, then pathogen trapping efficiency is improved, but breathability and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single thick layer, the patent divides the filtration function into multiple thin layers with different pore sizes and functions. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized for specific tasks while maintaining overall breathability through the cumulative effect of multiple layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension of filtration efficiency by adding layers with different orientations and pore structures. Rather than increasing thickness linearly, the hierarchical arrangement of layers in three-dimensional space provides enhanced pathogen blocking while maintaining air flow pathways.
4Ease of manufacture
If current face mask technology is used, then basic filtration is provided, but real-time health monitoring and early detection capabilities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single mask system: filtration, breathability management, temperature monitoring, contamination detection, and usage tracking. This multi-functional approach adds health monitoring capabilities without requiring separate devices, maintaining manufacturing efficiency while enhancing functionality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The multilayer filter effectively immobilizes and kills pathogens, reducing the risk of transmission and providing long-term, reusable protection, while the temperature sensor enables continuous health monitoring, reducing the strain on logistics and promoting widespread availability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a first breathable layer including copper
Implementation Method 2
a second breathable layer including silver
Data Source
AI summary
A filter configured for capturing and killing pathogens, the filter including a first breathable layer including copper; and a second breathable layer including silver, the second breathable layer coupled to the first breathable layer, wherein the first breathable layer and the second breathable layer cooperate to capture and kill pathogens mobilized through at least one of the first breathable layer and the second breathable layer.