Nested Shell Respirator Mask with Transparent Panels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional respirator masks often obstruct the view and are not customizable, while also being costly and difficult to manufacture, and they do not effectively filter both inhaled and exhaled air efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A mask design featuring nested outer and inner shells with transparent forward panels, strategically placed filters that do not obscure the view, and a seal system that includes a slot with inclined fingers to ensure a secure and effective filtration of both inhaled and exhaled air, along with adjustable strap attachments for comfort and stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional respirator masks are designed with filters to protect the respiratory system, then filtration effectiveness is improved, but the mask obstructs the view and is difficult to manufacture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltration effectivenessVSAvoidmanufacturing difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a nested shell structure where an inner shell containing filters is positioned within an outer shell. This nesting arrangement allows the filters to be fully contained and protected while maintaining a compact, manufacturable design that does not obstruct the user's view.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The mask is divided into separate functional components: an outer shell for structural support and an inner shell for filtration. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently and assembled, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining effective filtration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If conventional respirator masks use filtering components, then air filtration is improved, but the mask becomes costly and difficult to manufacture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveair filtrationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost and complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By nesting the inner shell with filters inside the outer shell, the design consolidates multiple functions into a single integrated structure that can be manufactured efficiently without requiring complex assembly procedures or expensive materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The dual-shell structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: the outer shell provides structural integrity and protection, while the inner shell provides filtration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, lowering manufacturing costs and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If conventional respirator masks are designed to filter both inhaled and exhaled air, then protection is improved, but the mask structure becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection levelVSAvoidmask structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The nested shell configuration allows both inhalation and exhalation filtration to occur within a single compact structure. Air passes through the filters in the inner shell during both breathing directions, eliminating the need for separate valve mechanisms and reducing overall structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines inhalation filtration and exhalation filtration into a single integrated filter system within the inner shell. This merging of functions simplifies the mask structure by eliminating the need for separate components for each breathing direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 mask provides effective filtration of both inhaled and exhaled air, maintains a clear view, is customizable, and is relatively low-cost and easy to manufacture, enhancing user comfort and non-verbal communication.

Implementation Method 1

a first filter that fully covers the opening in the first side wall and a second filter that fully covers the opening in the second side wall

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS11911637B2Mask
Publication Date: 2024.02.27 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US11911637B2 patent drawing
  • US11911637B2 patent drawing
  • US11911637B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure relates to a mask, and in particular a mask configured as a respirator. The disclosed mask is relatively low cost and relatively easy to manufacture. Further, the disclosed mask is reusable and customizable.