Facemask Filter Insert With Biocidal Airflow Channels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional facemasks suffer from poor fit, discomfort, and inefficiency in filtering airborne pathogens and allergens, with issues such as non-adjustable straps causing skin pinching, inadequate sealing, and restricted airflow, and lack of biocidal inserts.
Innovation Solution
A facemask design featuring a continuous strap system with tri-directional force adjustment, a replaceable biocidal filter, and bidirectional airflow channels that direct exhalations backward, integrated with additive manufacturing for customization to fit individual facial geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional facemasks use non-adjustable straps, then manufacturing is simplified, but comfort deteriorates due to skin pinching and poor fit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static non-adjustable straps into dynamic adjustable straps that can adapt to different wearers' head sizes and shapes. The adjustable mechanism allows the straps to be modified in length and tension, providing both manufacturing simplicity and wearer comfort through adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the strap system by introducing adjustability features such as sliding buckles, Velcro closures, or elastic sections. These parameter changes enable the same strap design to accommodate various head circumferences while maintaining comfort and preventing skin pinching.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional facemasks use simple filtering material, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but filtration efficiency deteriorates in capturing airborne pathogens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite filtering materials that combine multiple layers with different properties (e.g., electrostatic charge layers, melt-blown polypropylene, non-woven fabric) to achieve high filtration efficiency against airborne pathogens while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized production processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different filtering materials or structures to different regions of the filter assembly based on local requirements. For example, higher filtration density is applied to areas with higher pathogen exposure risk, while maintaining overall manufacturing simplicity through modular construction.
3Reliability
If conventional facemasks restrict airflow to improve sealing, then protection effectiveness is improved, but breathing comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mask structure into multiple functional zones: sealing zones at the edges to ensure protection effectiveness, and breathable zones in the central area with larger air intake openings. This segmentation allows the mask to maintain tight sealing at critical areas while providing adequate breathing space in others.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces three-dimensional shaping elements such as molded nose bridges, ear loop attachments, and contoured filter housings that improve sealing through geometric adaptation to facial features, rather than relying solely on increased compression force that would restrict airflow.
4Device complexity
If conventional facemasks lack biocidal inserts, then device complexity is reduced, but protection against airborne pathogens deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates biocidal inserts that are pre-treated with antimicrobial agents or coated with pathogen-killing materials during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that the mask surface is already equipped with pathogen protection capabilities before use, adding functionality without significantly increasing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable biocidal filter inserts or mask components that are discarded after a single use or limited number of uses. This approach provides reliable pathogen protection through specialized biocidal materials while keeping the overall device complexity low by using simple replaceable components rather than complex reusable systems.
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 design provides a snug, comfortable fit with enhanced filtration and airflow management, effectively capturing pathogens and allergens while allowing exhaled air to vent safely, thus protecting both the wearer and others.
Implementation Method 1
at least one airflow channel configured to direct inhaled air so as to strike a filter at an oblique angle
Implementation Method 2
an interior filter or biocidal insert for capture of pathogens and particulates
Implementation Method 3
biocidal insert for capture of pathogens and particulates
Data Source
AI summary
A facemask assembly can include an interior air filter that is replaceable and/or contains biocidal elements. The filter can capture exhaled H2O to activate silver ions creating a biocidal environment. In some embodiments, at least part of the facemask is made via additive manufacturing. A facemask frame assembly can create a pleated filter to increase surface area and bring the filter material closer to the mouth and nose. The facemask can include a facial skirt customized to the facial geometry of the wearer. The facemask can have a permanently sealed filter than can withstand boiling and autoclaving temperatures so the mask system can be sterilized without disassembly. In some embodiments, the facemask has a visible display of how many times the facemask has been sterilized. In some embodiments, the mask includes a RFID device that can transmit how many times the facemask has been sterilized.