004 | smart textiles | design research
Material: textile, electronics
Process: tailoring, pattern design, 3D printing, thermal transfer printing
research methods: qualitative interviews, co-design-workshops, user tests
Design, REsearch: Hannah Friederike Fischer
assistance: Patricia Wagner
HEADSENSE
A Smart Mask Design for Health Monitoring
HeadSense is a co-designed smart mask that enables daily facewear with cardio-respiratory health monitoring capabilities through scientifically proven results. HeadSense can be used in various scenarios where both protection from harmful elements and continuous health status monitoring can benefit the user.
The design approach thoroughly considers textile and garment integration to combine smart sensing technologies in a face mask while maintaining its traditional air filtering functions. The design incorporates sensing electronics with layered textile and 3D printed structures inside the facial garment to find the balance between sensing functions, wearer comfort, usability and social acceptability.
Developed at the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence Berlin.
Structure of the Smart Mask
The smart mask consists of two layers of fabric with an integrated silicone mouthguard to enhance sensor signal strength and a filter to protect against particles. Electronic components are seamlessly integrated into the mask using a pocket and a 3D-printed click mechanism that allows them to be easily removed, facilitating machine washing of the mask.
In addition, coloured symbols have been strategically placed inside the mask to help users use the mask correctly and to indicate sensor locations.
HeadSense presents an innovative concept that not only addresses the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, but also introduces a novel solution applicable in multiple medical contexts. The smart mask serves as a functional wearable that seamlessly complements the daily face mask while incorporating cardio-respiratory health monitoring capabilities.
This smart mask will prove beneficial in many scenarios where protection from harmful elements and continuous health monitoring are of significant benefit to the user.
PLACEMENT OF ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS
TOOLKIT CO-DESIGN WORKSHOP
Sketches mask design
photos: detlev schneider
model: katharina bellinger
illustrations: joanna wilkans