Wearable Laminar Air Flow Face Shield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional face masks and shields are uncomfortable, restrict social interaction, and offer limited protection when eating or drinking, while also potentially harboring bacteria and causing breathing difficulties for some users.
Innovation Solution
A wearable airflow device that creates an invisible laminar air barrier in front of the user's face using fans and a laminar assembly, allowing for comfortable use without covering the face and providing protection equivalent to traditional face masks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fabric face masks are used to block pathogens, then protection against airborne viruses is provided, but comfort is reduced and breathing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a laminar air flow generator to create a continuous stream of clean air that forms a protective barrier in front of the user's face. This pneumatic approach replaces solid fabric masks with a flowing air shield that blocks pathogens without restricting breathing or causing discomfort, directly resolving the contradiction between protection and comfort
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state from solid (fabric mask) to gas (laminar air flow). By transitioning from a static solid barrier to a dynamic gas flow, the system maintains protective function while eliminating the discomfort and breathing restrictions associated with fabric masks
2Reliability
If fabric face masks are used to block airflow, then pathogen protection is achieved, but social interaction is restricted and face coverage is required
Solution Approach 1:
The laminar air flow creates an invisible barrier that protects against pathogens without requiring visible fabric coverage. This allows users to maintain natural facial expressions and social interactions while still being protected, as the air shield is imperceptible unlike solid masks
3Reliability
If fabric face masks are used to block pathogens, then protection is provided, but the masks harbor bacteria and require frequent washing
Solution Approach 1:
By using a continuous flow of clean air instead of static fabric, the system eliminates the medium that harbors bacteria. The laminar air flow constantly replenishes itself and does not provide a surface for bacterial accumulation, removing the harmful factor while maintaining protection
Solution Approach 2:
The air flow barrier is effectively disposable in nature, constantly being generated and replenished without requiring cleaning or maintenance of a physical medium, eliminating the need to wash and reduce bacterial harboring risks
4Reliability
If elastic ear loops are used to secure face masks, then mask fixation is achieved, but ear discomfort and pain occur
Solution Approach 1:
The face shield is secured using a headband that rests on the top of the head rather than elastic ear loops that clamp the ears. This pneumatic support system provides secure fixation without applying painful pressure to the ears, eliminating ear discomfort while maintaining mask stability
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 airflow device offers effective protection against airborne pathogens without the discomfort of fabric masks, enabling use while eating or drinking and providing a comfortable, breathable solution for users.
Implementation Method 1
The airflow device includes a laminar assembly coupled to the at least one fan so that air flow generated by the at least one fan passes through the plurality of tubes to create the air barrier
Data Source
AI summary
An airflow device configured for creating an air barrier includes a fan, a power source, a laminar assembly, and an attachment mechanism. The power source is coupled to the fan. The laminar assembly includes a plurality of tubes and is coupled to the fan so that air flow generated by the fan passes through the plurality of tubes to create the air barrier. The attachment mechanism attaches the laminar assembly to a user in a location near the user's head such that the air barrier created by the laminar assembly is positioned in front of the user's face. A plenum is positioned between the fan and the laminar assembly such that the air flow generated by the fan passes through the plenum and then through the laminar assembly. The airflow device acts as a face shield that protects the user from airborne contaminants and viruses.