Mask Receptacle Device with Valve for Consumption Without Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for wearing facial masks while drinking, eating, or inhaling are either inconvenient or unsafe, as they require lifting the mask temporarily, which compromises the protective integrity of the mask.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle device for a mask that includes a valve, a body portion surrounding the valve, and an anchor portion, which defines a channel to releasably engage the mask, allowing for the insertion and withdrawal of drinking, feeding, or inhalation instruments without compromising the mask's positional integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the mask is lifted away from the mouth region to drink or eat, then the convenience of consumption is improved, but the protective integrity of the mask is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mask system is segmented into two functional components: the mask itself for protection and a receptacle device for consumption. The receptacle device includes a valve mechanism that can be opened to allow drinking or eating instruments to pass through, while the mask remains in place on the face. This segmentation allows the protective function and consumption function to operate independently without compromising either.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle device acts as an intermediary between the mask and the consumption instruments (straws, bottles, etc.). It provides a controlled interface through which substances can be consumed while maintaining the seal and protective integrity of the mask. The valve within the receptacle device mediates the opening and closing actions to allow or prevent instrument passage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hole is cut in the mask to insert a straw, then the ability to drink through the mask is improved, but the mask's protective capability is reduced due to virus penetration
Solution Approach 1:
The drinking function is extracted from the mask itself and placed into a separate receptacle device. Instead of modifying the mask by cutting holes, the receptacle device is attached to the mask and contains the opening mechanism. This extraction preserves the mask's integrity while providing the desired drinking capability through the receptacle's valve and opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle device serves as an intermediary structure that interfaces with the mask without requiring modifications to the mask's protective material. It provides a controlled opening mechanism that maintains the mask's protective barrier while enabling instrument passage through its own valve system.
3Ease of operation
If the mask is temporarily removed during consumption, then the convenience of eating or drinking is improved, but the risk of infection increases due to exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The mask's protective action continues uninterrupted during consumption activities. The receptacle device allows instruments to pass through its valve while the mask remains sealed against the face, maintaining continuous protection. This eliminates the need to remove the mask entirely, keeping the protective barrier in continuous operation throughout the consumption process.
Data Source
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Figure 3a
AI summary
There is provided a receptacle device for a mask, the receptacle device comprising: a valve; a body portion surrounding the valve; and an anchor portion; wherein the body portion and the anchor portion are integrally formed; and wherein the anchor portion and the body portion define a channel therebetween, and the channel is configured to releasably engage the mask. A method of manufacturing a mask assembly or retrofitting a receptacle device to a workpiece mask is also provided which comprises a mask and said receptacle device.