Face Shield With Integrated UV-C Sanitizing Light Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional face shields do not effectively neutralize biologically hazardous materials that can bypass the mask and pose a risk of infection to the wearer and others, as they allow contaminants to enter around the sides.
Innovation Solution
A face shield with a dual layer plastic plate, foam rubber cushion, pivoting mechanism, and integrated sanitizing light sources powered by a battery enclosure, which kills germs, bacteria, and viruses through ambient air exposure before inhalation or exhalation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional face shields are used, then direct impact protection is provided, but contaminants can bypass the shield through the sides and pose infection risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical barrier (plastic shield) with an integrated photochemical system using UV-C LEDs to neutralize contaminants. The light sources are positioned within ventilation openings to treat air passing through the shield, transforming the passive mechanical barrier into an active biological neutralization system.
Solution Approach 2:
UV-C light sources generate photodissociation and photo-oxidation effects that destroy the molecular structure of pathogens. The ultraviolet radiation acts as a strong oxidizing agent that breaks down DNA and RNA of bacteria and viruses, neutralizing them before they can cause infection.
2Reliability
If sanitizing light sources are integrated into the face shield, then pathogen neutralization is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sanitizing light sources directly into the ventilation openings of the face shield structure. The LEDs are integrated within the plastic plate itself, combining the protective shield function with the sanitization function in a single integrated component rather than adding separate external devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The face shield performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical protection against direct impacts, allows controlled air ventilation through openings, and activates UV-C light sources to neutralize pathogens in the air. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protective devices.
3Productivity
If multiple ventilation openings are provided, then air circulation is improved, but structural integrity of the shield is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning light sources specifically within the ventilation openings and using the foam rubber cushion at strategic locations to maintain structural integrity. The plastic plate uses localized reinforcement where needed while maintaining open ventilation areas for air circulation.
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 sanitizing light sources within the face shield effectively neutralize pathogens before they are inhaled or exhaled, providing enhanced protection for the wearer and others, while allowing for easy use and adjustment to accommodate various head sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a sanitizing light source which is disposed on the top
Implementation Method 2
The ambient air may kill one or more germs, bacteria, viruses or other contagions before they are ingested via a user
Data Source
AI summary
A face mask is a face shield and head strap comprising two layers of plastic having a plurality of blue LED lights which are disposed about each of four face shield sides. The face mask also has a power source, power switch and plurality of air vents. When activated the plurality of blue LED lights act a sanitizer.