BIN_ASHRAF_MUHAMMAD_ABDULLAH & Porras Braojos Jaime & Wigboldus Nathanael & Ashraf Muhammad Ehsaan

They should consider focusing on one or two specific senses to enhance through the mask, which will allow for a more detailed and targeted design. Additionally, they need to think about the comfort and usability for a diverse range of users, making sure it’s practical for long-term wear.

Leading questions for direction (to help enhance the design/concept)

Concept/shape

  • Which specific senses does the mask improve, and how does it accomplish this?
  • Is the mask designed for specific situations (e.g., outdoor use, night vision, assisting the visually impaired)?
  • What are the primary user groups for this mask (e.g., people with disabilities, professionals needing heightened senses, general users seeking enhancement)?
  • What do the colors, textures, and patterns on the mask represent?

Functionality 

  • How would someone put on and remove the mask? Does it require straps, or does it attach in another way?
  • Does the mask require any external power source or batteries? If so, how are they integrated into the design?
  • Are there safety features or considerations for the user, especially if the mask augments senses in a potentially overwhelming way?
  • What materials would you ideally use to build this mask to make it comfortable and functional?
  • Are there existing technologies (such as sensors or microcontrollers) that you envision incorporating to enhance senses like hearing, sight, or smell?
  • If you were to add one more sensory enhancement, which would you add and why?
  • Does the mask incorporate any form of feedback for the user, such as vibration or sound, to alert them of changes in their surroundings?

My recommendations:

Targeted Sensory Enhancements:

  • Hearing: Consider incorporating directional microphones or bone conduction technology to enhance auditory input. This could allow users to focus on specific sounds while filtering out background noise.
  • Sight: Use adjustable lenses or augmented reality (AR) elements to provide enhanced visual clarity or information overlays, particularly for users with visual impairments.
    • Night Vision: Integrate low-light cameras or infrared sensors to assist with night vision, potentially using a display that presents this information to the user.

User Group Focus:

  • Identify a specific group, such as individuals with visual impairments or professionals (e.g., first responders, outdoor enthusiasts), and tailor the design to their needs. For instance, a mask designed for visually impaired users might focus on tactile feedback and sound cues.

Functionality

  •  Attachment Method: Explore various methods for securing the mask, such as adjustable straps, magnetic attachments, or a helmet-like design for stability.

  • Use lightweight, breathable materials for comfort, such as mesh fabrics for the inner lining and flexible plastics or silicone for the outer structure. Consider hypoallergenic materials for sensitive skin.

Prototyping:

  • Experiment with different attachment methods using cardboard strips to simulate adjustable straps or a helmet-like design. This will help in assessing the stability and fit of the mask. 
  • Use colored transparent sheets to create different texture for the mask (eyes part)

Resources