Mathematics Helps Design a Better-Fitting Face Mask

November 2, 2010

A recent episode of Discoveries + Breakthroughs in Science focused on facemasks and the limited protection they offer, especially to first responders and health care providers. Fitted respirators provide more protection, but depending on the wearer's face size and shape, it's not perfect.

"If there are leaks, basically, gaps between where the respirator fits your face or sits on your face and the respirator itself, that's where air can leak in, and you can get exposure," said Ron Shaffer (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health).

In order to develop a new generation of masks, "You can scan a respirator, and scan somebody’s head and marry the two up. See how they fit on somebody’s face. Look for air gaps," Shaffer indicated.

To improve on the one-size of face mask for firefighters, first responders, and medical personnel, scientists and engineers took the facial dimensions of 4,000 workers—and then used a mathematical program to create 3-D images of basic facial shapes.

They then molded forms into five sizes—small, medium, short, and wide large, and long and narrow—that fit most faces like a glove.

Source: Discoveries + Breakthroughs in Science (October 1, 2010)

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