AIR PURIFICATION MASK

EMPOWERING PROTESTERS BY REMOVING HARMFUL SOCIAL STIGMA

In the modern protest environment, individuals knowledgable of the harmful effects of tear gas who come prepared with gas masks are often the victims of violence or police harassment, as the gas mask is often interpreted to mean the wearer has violent intentions. This final project for Product Design Studio III tackles the stigma of a gas mask in a protest environment, and offers a unique solution to the protection from tear gas. 

PROCESS

This 2-month project began with research on the history of college protests and interviews of stakeholders including universities, protest participants, and law enforcement professionals. From there, a brand style was created and sketches moved from quick napkin ideas to fully-rendered CAD. Finally, a 3D printed model was created and hand-sewn straps were added for a partially functioning physical model. 

RESEARCH

Activists, protest participants, and law enforcement officials were interviewed about their experiences to kick off the project. Many interesting insights were given, but one of the most impactful insights to this project was the idea that hiding ones identity (intentional or otherwise) has negative connotations for law enforcement. 

PROTOTYPING AND MODELING

3D models were created in Solidworks using a scaled head model available online. Using these surfaces as reference points, a mask was modeled on top of the head. From hand sketches, several different 3D models were created before making a final model that was used for a 3D printed physical model.

FINAL DESIGN

 Because tear gas binds to fabric and can irritate the skin, adjustable straps can be fully removed for washing. Single-use filter cartridges also easily snap into place and can be removed after use and thrown out. When not in use, the bottom strap can rest inside of the mask and stays in place using small magnets in the strap and mask. The mask then can be hung around the neck so that it does not obscure the face but can be easily put on if needed. Because of the quick snap design, straps can be pre-tensioned to the correct size and quickly snapped in to secure the mask when needed.