Full-Face Diving Mask with Lateral Partition and Check Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional snorkeling masks have a limited field of view, a fixed silicon frame that does not fit all face contours leading to water leakage, and inability to perform the Valsalva procedure, causing discomfort during diving.
Innovation Solution
A full-face snorkel and diving mask with a unitary mask body created through injection molding, featuring a flexible annular skirt, a lateral partition for separate upper and lower chambers, and a snorkel coupling with check valve devices to prevent fogging and allow pressure equalization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed-shape silicon frame is used in conventional snorkeling masks, then the manufacturing is simple and cost-effective, but the mask does not fit all face contours leading to water leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the silicone frame flexible and adaptable rather than fixed-rigid. The frame is designed to conform to different face contours through its material properties and structural design, allowing it to dynamically adjust to various user faces while maintaining reliable sealing performance without water leakage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying the physical properties of the frame material (silicone) to achieve optimal flexibility and sealing characteristics. By adjusting the material composition, thickness, and structural parameters of the silicone frame, the mask can adapt to different face shapes while maintaining effective water sealing
2Reliability
If the lower portion of the mask is entirely enclosed behind the rigid faceplate, then the sealing is improved, but the user is unable to perform the Valsalva procedure to equalize pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the enclosed lower portion of the mask into separate functional zones. It creates distinct chambers or pathways that allow the user to access their nose for pressure equalization maneuvers while maintaining the overall sealed environment needed for effective snorkeling or diving operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism or pathway within the enclosed lower portion that facilitates pressure equalization. This intermediary structure allows the user to perform the Valsalva procedure by providing access to the nasal passage while maintaining the sealed mask environment, thus mediating between the conflicting requirements of sealing and operational ease
3Ease of manufacture
If a single layer silicone sealing lip is used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the sealing lip is susceptible to not matching face contours causing leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining multiple layers or types of materials in the sealing lip structure. This composite construction allows the sealing lip to better conform to face contours while maintaining manufacturing feasibility, thus improving sealing reliability without excessive manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes flexible shells and thin films by designing the sealing lip with enhanced flexibility through its structural design and material selection. The sealing lip is created as a thin, flexible element that can adapt to various face contours, improving sealing performance while remaining manufacturable through standard silicone molding processes
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 mask provides superior sealing, improved visibility, and comfort by preventing water leakage and allowing easy pressure equalization, enhancing the snorkeling and diving experience.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible annular skirt (50) configured within the outer periphery (18) of the faceplate (10) and arranged to seal to a user's face
Implementation Method 2
a snorkel coupling (26) arranged in the upper portion (14) of the faceplate (10) and configured to couple to a snorkel device (40), a first check valve device (59) arranged in the upper chamber (22) and configured to allow passage of air from the snorkel device (40) to the lower chamber (24) during an inhalation phase, a second check valve device (68) arranged in the lower chamber (24) and configured to allow passage of air from the lower chamber (24) to the snorkel device (40) during an exhalation phase
Data Source
AI summary
A diving mask system is disclosed comprising a faceplate having a lateral partition on an interior surface delineating an upper and lower section, the lower section comprising a region that extends away from the upper section and includes at least one cutout section fitted with a complementary-shaped flexible insert that enables a user to grasp the nose. The faceplate further includes a rigid annular support frame either bonded to or extending out from a backside of said flange, the frame being configured within the outer periphery of said flange. A flexible annular sidewall skirt is attached to the support frame. The flexible skirt includes a lateral nose piece section attached to the partition. The lateral nose piece section having an inlet aperture and check valve for inhaled air, and an orifice through which an exhalation conduit having a separate check valve extends from the lower chamber to a snorkel device forming a passageway for exhaled air to pass through the upper chamber to the snorkel device. A quick-release clasp mechanism attached to the mask's elastic retention straps is also disclosed.