Pivotable Flap Face Mask for Mouth Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing face masks do not allow users to easily transition between a closed configuration covering the nose and mouth areas and an open configuration exposing the mouth area, limiting convenience and functionality in public or confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A high-quality face mask design featuring a mask body with three layers of materials, including a detachable filter layer, a pivotable flap, and elastic cords for secure fit, allowing users to transition between closed and open configurations using Velcro or other fastening means, and compatible with eyeglass frames for comfort and convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional face mask is used to cover the nose and mouth areas, then protection from airborne pathogens and dust is improved, but the ability to easily expose the mouth area for eating, drinking, or breathing fresh air deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mask is divided into a mask body and a separate flap component that can be independently manipulated. The flap is attached to the mask body through a pivot connection, allowing it to be opened or closed independently while the mask body remains in place, providing protection without requiring complete mask removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The flap is designed with pivotable attachment to the mask body, transforming it from a static covering into a dynamic component that can transition between closed (protective) and open (exposed) states. This dynamic mechanism allows users to expose the mouth area easily by simply opening the flap rather than removing the entire mask.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a face mask with multiple materials is used to enhance filtration quality, then protection from pathogens is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mask body incorporates multiple materials with different properties - a first material for structural support, a second material for filtration, and a third material for comfort or additional filtration. This composite structure enhances pathogen protection while maintaining a manageable design through functional differentiation of materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-material construction is segmented into distinct layers (first, second, and third materials) that can be independently selected and optimized for their specific functions, allowing complex filtration requirements to be met without creating an monolithic complicated structure.
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 users to easily expose the mouth area for eating, drinking, or breathing fresh air without removing the mask, while maintaining protection from airborne pathogens and dust, enhancing user safety and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more elastic cords can extend from the mask body and configured to secure the mask body to the face of the user
Implementation Method 2
The flap can be pivotably associated with the mask body
Implementation Method 3
The fastening means can be associated with the flap and the mask body. The fastening means can be configured to retain the flap to the mask body in the closed configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A face mask system capable of covering and exposing a mouth area of a user a. The face mask system includes a face mask and an eyeglass frame. The face mask includes a mask body and a flap made of a first, second and third materials. The mask body defines an opening exposing the mouth area when the face mask is worn on a face. A flap is pivotably associated with the mask body to cover the opening. A fastening means is associated with the flap and the mask body to retain the flap to the mask body. Elastic cords extend from the mask body to secure the mask body to the face. The eyeglass frame includes a central section featuring a nose brace, and frame arms extending from ends of the central section. The frame arms including an ear member featuring an end element engageable with the elastic cords.