As face masks become a more common sight in public, engineers are developing new ways to ensure they fit properly. That’s important not only for comfort, but also for the masks’ effectiveness in blocking out viruses and other particles.
One company, ResMed, has developed a mask fit sensor that uses audio signals to gauge how well a mask is sealing to a person’s face. The sensor, which attaches to the outside of the mask, emits a tone that changes pitch as the mask moves closer or further away from the face.
The idea is that users can adjust their masks until they find a pitch that is comfortable, indicating a good seal. ResMed is currently testing the sensor with healthcare workers, and plans to make it available to consumers in the future.
Another option comes from a company called Color Intelligent Mask, which has developed a sensor that attaches to the ear loops of a face mask. The sensor uses Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) to measure how much light is being absorbed by the skin beneath the mask.
The higher the absorption, the better the seal. The sensor also has a display that shows users how well their masks are fitting, and can be connected to a smartphone app for further analysis.
With the proliferation of face masks, it’s important to make sure they fit correctly in order to maximize their effectiveness. These new sensors provide a novel way to do that, and could help people feel more confident using masks in public.
When it comes to face masks, a snug fit is key to keeping the wearer safe from harmful airborne particles.Now, engineers have developed sensors that can be built into face masks to help ensure a proper fit.
The sensors, which are about the size of a grain of rice, are made from a flexible material that can be incorporated into the mask’s straps or band. The sensors contain two thin layers of conducting material, separated by an insulating layer.
When the mask is worn, the conducting layers come into contact with the skin, forming a circuit. The current passing through the circuit can be used to determine the level of contact between the mask and the face.
The scientists who developed the sensors say they could be used to monitor the fit of N95 respirators, which are critical for health care workers treating patients with COVID-19. The sensors could also be used in other types of masks, including those worn by the general public.
The researchers are now working on a prototype of a sensor-equipped mask and hope to have a working product within the next year.
