Nasal Filter with Concentric Creases for Snug Nostril Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nasal filters are inadequate in providing effective personal protection against air pollution, as they are difficult to use and do not maximize filtering surface area within the nostrils.
Innovation Solution
A nasal filter design featuring concentric ring-shaped creases that collapse into a conic or circular pyramid shape to fit snugly within the nostrils, with a bridge portion connecting the rim portions and folding holder portions for secure fit and adjustable width, allowing for enhanced air filtration without the need for chemical adhesives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If conventional nasal filters are used, then they provide basic filtration, but they are difficult to use and do not maximize filtering surface area within the nostrils
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is designed to transition from a compressed transport state to an expanded operational state within the nostril. The elastic material naturally expands the filter element after insertion, maximizing the filtering surface area without requiring complex application mechanisms, thus resolving the contradiction between maximizing area and maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element utilizes the radial dimension within the nostril by expanding outward from the insertion point. The concentric crease pattern allows the filter to occupy three-dimensional space efficiently, maximizing surface area in the limited nasal cavity volume while maintaining simple insertion through a narrow opening.
2Reliability
If the filter is designed to fit snugly within the nostrils, then filtration effectiveness is improved, but complex fitting mechanisms or chemical adhesives may be required
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic material provides self-expanding and self-sealing functionality. When the filter element is inserted and released, it automatically expands to fit the nostril contours and creates a seal without requiring adhesives, clips, or other complex fastening mechanisms. The elasticity of the material itself provides the securing force, eliminating the need for additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter leverages the elastic properties of the material to change its physical parameters (shape, volume, rigidity) dynamically. The material transitions from a compact state during insertion to an expanded state during use, adapting to the nostril geometry and providing a secure fit through controlled deformation rather than complex mechanical structures.
3Ease of operation
If the filter structure is simplified for ease of use, then ease of operation improves, but manufacturing precision and structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is divided into multiple functional zones: the filter media layer, the elastic structural layer with concentric creases, and the sealing rim. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity. The crease pattern itself acts as both a structural element and a deployment mechanism, eliminating the need for separate precision components.
Data Source
AI summary
A nasal filter is provided, including first and second rim portions, first and second crease portions, and a bridge portion. The first or second rim portion has a shape configured for contacting and being latched on a perimeter of a user's nostril. The first or second crease portion is provided in the first or second rim portion, and the first or second crease portion comprises concentric ring-shaped creases and collapsed into a plane defined by the first or second rim portion when flattened and deployed into a conic or circular pyramid shape configured to fit in the user's nostril when pressed perpendicularly to the plane. The bridge portion connects the first rim portion to the second rim portion. The nasal filter is configured to be deployed into the user's nostrils and to provide a filtering of breathed-in air.