Mask Fitting Sensor Using Piezoresistive Pressure Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mask fitting level determination devices are bulky, expensive, and require complex operations, with sampling tubes that can affect mask fitting and require proficiency for accurate measurement.
Innovation Solution
A compact, battery-powered mask fitting level determination device with a wireless ultra-small piezoresistive pressure sensor that measures mask inner pressure and provides simple, inexpensive fitting feedback through a display unit, eliminating the need for sampling tubes and complex operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an intra-mask environment measurement device is used to measure mask fitting level, then measurement capability is provided, but the device becomes bulky and expensive with complicated structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential measurement function (pressure sensing) from the complex intra-mask environment measurement device. By removing unnecessary components like particle counters and multiple sensors, it retains only the pressure detection capability needed for mask fitting assessment, achieving simple structure while maintaining measurement effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive, disposable pressure-sensitive paper instead of expensive electronic pressure sensors. The paper changes color based on pressure exposure, providing mask fitting assessment without requiring costly reusable electronic components, thus reducing device cost and complexity
2Measurement precision
If sampling tubes are inserted into the mask for measurement, then measurement data can be obtained, but mask fittingness is adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the sampling tubes entirely from the measurement system. Instead of inserting tubes into the mask to extract air samples for pressure measurement, it uses pressure-sensitive paper placed directly on the mask interior surface, eliminating the invasive tube insertion that compromises mask sealing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces pressure-sensitive paper as an intermediary between the mask interior and measurement function. This paper indirectly measures pressure through color change without requiring physical penetration or tube insertion into the mask, thus preserving mask integrity and fittingness
3Measurement precision
If a stationary intra-mask measurement device is used, then accurate measurement is achieved, but the device is large and requires significant space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from a stationary device context and transforms it into a portable, handheld format. By removing the stationary housing and supporting infrastructure, it creates a compact device that can be easily carried and used in various locations without requiring fixed installation space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with optical detection using pressure-sensitive paper. The color change response to pressure is detected optically, eliminating the need for bulky mechanical pressure sensors and associated moving parts, thus reducing device volume
4Measurement precision
If complex operation methods are used for accurate measurement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates and proficiency is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pressure-sensitive paper that automatically changes color in response to pressure exposure during mask wearing. This visual color change provides immediate, intuitive feedback about mask fitting quality without requiring complex operations, calculations, or user proficiency, making the measurement process simple and accessible
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-assessment through the automatic color change response of the pressure-sensitive paper. The user simply wears the mask and the paper automatically records and displays the fitting information through color variation, eliminating the need for complex user operations or interpretation skills
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
Enables easy, accurate, and cost-effective determination of mask fitting levels, suitable for use in small groups, with a simple component configuration and wireless connectivity for improved usability.
Implementation Method 1
the mask inner pressure detection unit 2 is an ultra-small pressure sensor of a piezoresistive type
Data Source
AI summary
A mask fitting level determination device includes a mask inner pressure detection unit inserted between a mask covering a mouth, nose and a face surface of a person to measure a pressure inside the mask. A circuit control unit derives information of a pressure value measured by the mask inner pressure detection unit and generates display information for the person wearing the mask. A determination display unit shows the person the display information generated by the circuit control unit. A battery unit supplies electricity to the circuit control unit and the determination display unit. A power supply switch starts and stops the supply of the electricity to the circuit control unit and the determination display unit. A start switch starts the mask inner pressure detection operation.