Fiber Composite ROS Neutralization via Segmented Regions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fiber materials used in antibacterial and antiviral filters and mouth/nose protectors face issues with reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by metallic silver and manganese(IV) oxide, which can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities, as they are not effectively neutralized within the materials.

Innovation Solution

A fiber material composite with a first region comprising metallic silver and manganese(IV) oxide to produce ROS and a second region configured to neutralize these species, using electrically conducting materials like stainless steel to facilitate electron exchange and minimize ROS exposure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If metallic silver and manganese(IV) oxide are applied to fibers to produce reactive oxygen species for antibacterial and antiviral effects, then the antibacterial and antiviral performance is improved, but harmful reactive oxygen species are generated that can be inhaled and cause damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantibacterial and antiviral performanceVSAvoidharmful reactive oxygen species inhalation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The filter material is divided into two distinct functional regions: a first region containing metallic silver and manganese(IV) oxide for ROS production, and a second region containing electrically conducting material for ROS neutralization. This spatial segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function independently, maintaining antibacterial/viral efficacy while protecting against harmful ROS inhalation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second region with electrically conducting material acts as an intermediary between the ROS-producing first region and the wearer's respiratory system. This intermediate layer neutralizes harmful ROS through electron exchange before they can reach the wearer, while still allowing beneficial antimicrobial ROS to function in the first region.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a second region with electrically conducting material is added to neutralize reactive oxygen species, then the safety and compatibility are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveROS neutralization capabilityVSAvoidfiber material composite structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated filter material composite: filtration, ROS production for antimicrobial action, and ROS neutralization for safety. By merging these functions into one composite structure with two regions, the design avoids the complexity of multiple separate components while achieving all necessary functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The first region with metallic silver and manganese(IV) oxide serves multiple purposes: it provides structural support as part of the filter material, generates ROS for antibacterial and antiviral effects, and works in conjunction with the second region to create a safe, effective filtration system. The electrically conducting material in the second region similarly serves both as a structural component and as the active neutralization agent.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-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 solution effectively neutralizes ROS, enhancing the compatibility and safety of the fiber materials by ensuring minimal ROS reach the wearer, thereby improving the antibacterial and antiviral performance while reducing potential harm from excess ROS inhalation.

Implementation Method 1

metallic silver and manganese(IV) oxide for producing reactive oxygen species (ROS)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOxidation: Oxidation

Implementation Method 2

the second region (16) has an electrically conducting coating... configured to neutralize the reactive oxygen species (ROS)... realized using an electrically conducting material or a material that enables an exchange of electrons between the reactive oxygen species and the second region

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectron exchange: Redox Reactions

Data Source

PatentUS20230271036A1Fiber Material Composite Having a Region that Neutralizes Reactive Oxygen Species
Publication Date: 2023.08.31 SIEMENS AG
  • US20230271036A1 patent drawing
  • US20230271036A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Various embodiments of the teachings herein include a fiber material composite. The composite may include: a first region including metallic silver and manganese(IV) oxide for producing reactive oxygen species; and a second region configured to neutralize the reactive oxygen species.