N-Mask: Redefining Face Mask Design for Safety and Comfort

A Fast and Convenient Solution for Disposable Safety Equipment

Wearing face masks has become an essential part of our daily lives, protecting ourselves and those around us. However, the availability of disposable face masks, such as surgical masks, has become a significant challenge during the pandemic. The N-Mask addresses this issue by allowing users to attach any filter material, including readily available paper handkerchiefs, to its frames. This innovative feature ensures that users can maintain the necessary level of protection even in the absence of specialized filter materials.

Unlike traditional face masks, the N-Mask eliminates the need for washing, making it a more convenient and hygienic option. Its design focuses on comfort, allowing for easy and quick application and removal without direct contact with the filtration material. The N-Mask's filtration efficiency surpasses that of textile face masks, providing users with enhanced protection.

The N-Mask can be produced using 3D printing or injection molding, with polypropylene (PP) being the most suitable material. Its folded state measures 135mm wide, 190mm long, and 8mm high, facilitating distribution and storage. When unfolded, it reaches a height of 80mm, ensuring a comfortable fit for users of various face shapes and sizes.

The N-Mask project, led by Jiri Nedved and supported by a team of designers and inventors, started in February 2019 and was completed in April 2019 in Most, Czech Republic. Extensive research was conducted to determine the filtration capabilities of different materials and face protection designs, with a focus on comparing the N-Mask to surgical masks. Laboratory testing methods were employed to measure the efficiency of filtration and the number of escaping droplets.

The design process presented unique challenges, as the team aimed to create a product that not only fulfilled its functional purpose but also possessed aesthetic qualities similar to fashionable glasses. The goal was to ensure that users could comfortably wear the N-Mask for extended periods, given the potential need for prolonged use throughout the day.

The N-Mask has been recognized for its outstanding design and practicality, receiving the Iron A' Design Award in the Safety Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment Design category in 2021. This prestigious award acknowledges the N-Mask's ability to meet professional and industrial requirements while integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics. The N-Mask is a testament to the power of innovation in creating a safer and more comfortable world.