Segmented Face Mask With Aligned Cutouts For Object Passage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing face masks often compromise between comfort, breathability, and effectiveness in reducing infection rates, and lack the ability to allow passage of small objects without compromising their protective barrier.
Innovation Solution
A face mask design comprising two segments with strategically positioned cutouts that align and couple to form a passage, allowing small objects to pass through while maintaining a protective barrier against contaminants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a face mask is designed with a solid barrier structure to protect against contaminants, then protection effectiveness is improved, but the ability to pass small objects through the mask deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mask is divided into two separate segments (first mask segment and second mask segment) that can be positioned relative to each other. Each segment contains an article cutout, and when positioned together, they form a passage. This segmentation allows the mask to maintain its protective barrier structure while creating a controlled opening for passing small objects like straws or mouthpieces through the aligned cutouts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a face mask is designed with cutouts to allow passage of objects, then adaptability is improved, but the protective barrier integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The passage formed by aligning the article cutouts acts as an intermediary structure. Instead of creating large openings that compromise the barrier, the cutouts form a controlled passage that can accommodate small objects while maintaining the overall integrity of the protective barrier. The passage serves as a mediator between the need for object passage and the need for barrier integrity.
3Reliability
If a face mask uses multiple layers or complex construction to improve protection, then protection effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mask uses a segmented design with two relatively simple mask segments rather than a single complex multi-layer structure. Each segment is straightforward in construction with an article cutout, and the segments are positioned and coupled together. This segmentation approach achieves the protective function while keeping individual components simple and the overall construction relatively straightforward.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus is disclosed for constructing a mask. The mask is formed of a first mask segment overlayed on a second mask segment. The first mask segment has an article cutout on a right side. The second mask segment has an article cutout on a left side. The article cutouts extend toward a center of the mask. The mask segments are coupled together such that a passage extends between the mask segments and between the article cutouts. A user who is wearing the mask may pull either or both of the article cutouts across the center of the mask to create a hole for entrance of an article. When released, the hole may close or may enclose around an article extending through the hole.