Elastic Filter Stretcher for Adaptive Mask Permeability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional masks and air filters lack adaptability to changing environments, leading to discomfort and reduced usability due to fixed permeability, which restricts movement and breathing, especially for healthcare providers and individuals with respiratory issues.
Innovation Solution
A stretcher mechanism that expands or contracts an elastic filter membrane, adjusting pore sizes based on environmental conditions, allowing for enhanced filtering performance or increased permeability as needed, integrated into a mask or air filter unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mask filtering performance is increased, then particle filtration capability is improved, but exhalation resistance and user discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic membrane structure that can change its permeability state between high filtration and high permeability modes. The membrane transitions from a compressed state (providing high filtration) to an expanded state (providing high permeability), allowing the mask to adapt to different breathing conditions and resolve the contradiction between filtration performance and exhalation comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the membrane (permeability) dynamically by applying mechanical force through the elastic band and housing structure. By adjusting the membrane's compression state, the system switches between different filtration-permeability characteristics, enabling high filtration during inhalation and high permeability during exhalation.
2Reliability
If mask permeability is decreased for better filtration, then particle removal efficiency is improved, but oxygen supply and breathing ease deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic permeability adjustment mechanism where the membrane can switch between compressed (high filtration) and expanded (high permeability) states. This dynamic behavior allows the mask to provide high filtration efficiency when needed while maintaining easy breathing through increased permeability during exhalation phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask operates in periodic cycles of high filtration during inhalation and high permeability during exhalation. The elastic band and housing structure facilitate this periodic transition, ensuring that filtration efficiency is maximized during particle-laden inhalation while breathing effort is minimized during exhalation.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed permeability mask is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to environmental changes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic membrane system within a relatively simple housing structure. The membrane's ability to transition between compressed and expanded states provides environmental adaptability while maintaining a straightforward manufacturing approach. The elastic band and housing form a simple yet effective mechanism for enabling dynamic permeability adjustment.
4Reliability
If healthcare provider mask has high filtration performance, then protection level is improved, but communication ease and operational comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic membrane that can switch between high filtration and high permeability states. During medical procedures requiring high protection, the membrane maintains compressed state for maximum filtration. During communication or low-risk moments, the membrane expands to provide high permeability, enabling clear speech and improved comfort without compromising protection when needed.
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 solution provides a lightweight, adaptable air filtration system that improves filtering efficiency in poor air conditions while allowing for increased airflow in better environments, enhancing user comfort and usability across various activities.
Implementation Method 1
a first wall connected to the elastic material and having elasticity
Implementation Method 2
as air escapes from the hollow hole, the first wall is extended toward the hollow hole
Data Source
AI summary
A mask according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may adjust permeability thereof by including and using an air filter unit which is capable of expanding or contracting, in at least one direction, a filter for filtering particles contained in air passing through the mask by pores.