Integrated Mask Sizing Ruler for Accurate Facial Fit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mask sizing gauges do not accurately determine the optimal size for individual users, as they are not based on analyzed facial geometries and are typically sold separately from mask packages, leading to potential misfit issues even within age-defined size ranges.

Innovation Solution

A facemask package integrated with a mask sizing ruler that includes a first and second measuring gauge element, where the sizes are determined by categorizing precisely measured distances from human faces, allowing users to determine the appropriate mask size by placing the ruler on their face, with key points such as the menton landmark and eye level used for measurement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional mask sizing gauges are used, then mask size determination can be performed, but the sizing gauge is sold separately from the mask package and may not accurately determine the optimal size for individual users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemask size determination accuracyVSAvoidseparate sizing gauge requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the mask sizing ruler with the mask package into a single integrated unit. The sizing ruler is physically attached to or included with the mask packaging, eliminating the need for users to purchase and use a separate sizing gauge. This integration ensures that the sizing tool is always available with the mask and reduces the complexity of the overall system by consolidating multiple components into one unified package.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If age range recommendations are used for mask sizes, then sizing can be simplified, but facial profiles within the same age group vary widely leading to poor fit

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesizing simplicityVSAvoidindividual fit accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical approach of using fixed age-range recommendations with a digital imaging system. The system captures images of the user's face, automatically measures facial dimensions using image processing algorithms, and determines the optimal mask size based on the measured dimensions. This substitution of mechanical/manual sizing methods with automated digital measurement provides both simplicity for the user and precision for the fit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The sizing system performs automatic facial dimension measurement and mask size determination without requiring manual intervention. The imaging device captures facial images, the processing unit automatically analyzes the images to extract dimensional data, and the system independently determines the appropriate mask size. This self-service approach eliminates the need for users to manually measure their faces or consult complex sizing charts, providing both ease of operation and accurate individualized sizing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If manual trial of different mask sizes on user face is performed, then accurate size determination can be achieved, but the process is time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemask size determination accuracyVSAvoidsizing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual trial process with an automated digital imaging and measurement system. Instead of requiring users to physically try on different mask sizes and manually assess the fit, the system captures facial images, automatically measures relevant dimensions using image processing, and determines the optimal mask size. This substitution dramatically reduces the time required for sizing while maintaining or improving measurement precision through automated digital analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary facial dimension measurement and mask size determination before the user needs to select a mask. By pre-analyzing facial geometry through imaging and automatically calculating the optimal size, the system eliminates the need for time-consuming trial-and-error fitting sessions. The preliminary action of automated measurement and size determination is completed quickly, allowing users to immediately proceed to mask selection and fitting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10314996B2Mask package apparatus integrated with mask sizing ruler
Publication Date: 2019.06.11 ST ENG PTE LTD
  • US10314996B2 patent drawing
  • US10314996B2 patent drawing
  • US10314996B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A facemask package integrated with a mask sizing ruler is disclosed. The package stores the masks of various sizes. The mask sizing ruler comprising a first measuring gauge element, a second measuring gauge element and one or more sizes indicated thereon. The sizes in the sizing ruler are determined by categorizing one or more precisely previously measured distance from at least two points on one or more human faces into one or more sizes based on at least one distance on one or more masks of one or more mask sizes. At least one distance on one or more masks of one or more mask sizes is proportional to the maximum vertical distance of the mask in unfolded state. A system and method for determining the sizes indicated on the mask ruler are also disclosed.