Never before have people thought so much about face masks. Those with respiratory or immune system problems, those living in highly polluted areas, and those potentially exposed to hazardous gases, chemicals, or infectious diseases have been wearing masks for years.
However, now with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and the increasing levels of pollution in inner cities, the public is becoming aware of the importance of these often life-saving devices.
Soon, more people will be learning about the latest innovation in personal protection masks, electric mask.
Limitations of Current Masks
Unfortunately, people are also finding that these face coverings have some severe limitations.
For all of the technology we have developed, face masks still have several problems, especially for those who need to wear them regularly.
First of all, our current face masks are not safe enough. The right mask can make us safer from disease and pollutants, but these masks are still not 100% effective.
Second, even though some people choose to use their masks more than once, they are not designed to be reusable. This limitation makes it cumbersome and expensive to ensure that users always have a clean mask available.
Third, current masks just don’t fit well. This poor fit causes two problems. A poor fit can lead to contaminates entering the mask, defeating its purpose. They can also make the mask uncomfortable, which is a significant issue for those who need to wear these masks multiple hours a day.
Even occasional users will find themselves leaving their masks off if they don’t fit right. Finally, until now, none of the available masks were designed to be worn during exercise or other sports activities.
With the uncomfortable design and restricted airflow, most available masks aren’t comfortable.
The Electric Mask
Fortunately, researchers have been working on a solution to the limitations of the currently available personal protection masks.
Many of the limitations of current masks are related to the fact that they are passive.
They are only powered by the action of the user inhaling and exhaling.
However, an electric mask runs under its own battery power, adding the potential for active technology that can make the mask safer, smarter, and reusable.
Thanks to recent advances in battery size and power, there is no limit to the technology that can be built into the electric mask.
But what makes these masks such a game-changer comes long before they are powered up. The latest electric masks are designed from the ground up.
Instead of relying on outdated mask designs, the creators of electric masks have gone back to the drawing board and developed a totally new and better design.
One of the biggest problems with the masks on the market today is fit.
Through using the latest silicone materials, the electric mask finally fits the user’s face properly. Proper fit is the first step in creating a safer mask.
Electric mask designers also realized that, for users to be able to wear their masks regularly, they needed to be reusable.
By researching the latest filtration materials, like graphene, engineers have found ways to manufacture masks that can be reused over and over.
Most importantly, the use of the right materials and design means that they can provide the same level of protection through the entire life of the mask.
The powered aspect of the electric mask is where technology can take personal protective wear to the next level.
Batteries can supply power to several features that will set masks apart. Sensors within the mask can be connected via Bluetooth to a smartphone.
The app can warn users when they are entering a contaminated area and advise them to put on their masks. The data collected through the mask can then crowdsource air quality information for other users.
Other uses for the available power under development are fans that can help with airflow, filtration, and comfort. Future designs may even use electrical charges to keep the mask clean and sterile.
What To Consider When Choosing an Electric Mask
If you are considering upgrading to an electric mask, there are some things to consider.
The first factor will be price. The very latest technology often comes with a premium price, so consider your budget. Second is weight and design. Not every mask is the perfect fit for every user.
As manufacturers stuff more technology into electric masks, they become heavier.
Find the right balance of weight, fit, and performance for your needs. Finally, keep in mind the continuing development of technology.
Will some masks be capable of updates as the technology improves? Or, is the cost of the mask reasonable enough for you to upgrade when something better comes along?
