SMART MASK FOR EXHALED BREATH CONDENSATE HARVESTING AND ANALYSIS

Smart overview of the Invention

A smart mask system is designed for health monitoring by analyzing exhaled breath condensate (EBC) in real- or near-real-time. This wearable technology integrates passive cooling, microfluidics, electrochemical biosensing, and wireless communication to continuously monitor biomarkers in EBC. The mask provides insights into respiratory and metabolic health, detecting a wide range of biomarkers such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitric oxide, cytokines, and pathogens. These capabilities enable personalized health surveillance during daily activities.

Technical Advancements

The smart mask incorporates advanced technologies to enhance traditional EBC collection and analysis methods. It features a passive cooling system, automated microfluidic channels, and selective electrochemical biosensors. These elements work together to facilitate the non-invasive capture and analysis of biomarkers. The integration of wireless communication allows for real-time data transmission to remote devices, enabling continuous health monitoring outside clinical settings.

Components and Functionality

• Mask Body: Covers the user's face and captures respiratory emissions, featuring a cooling layer that condenses emissions into liquid droplets.
• Fluid Transport System: Connects the mask body to the biosensor using capillaries for transporting liquid droplets.
• Biosensor: Includes a recognition layer with bioreceptors and electrodes to detect biomarker concentrations and generate signals.
• Wireless Communication: Transmits biomarker data to remote devices for monitoring and analysis.

Innovative Features

The smart mask employs various cooling techniques such as evaporative and radiative cooling. It uses microfluidic capillary systems with hydrophilic channels for efficient EBC capture. The biosensor array is capable of detecting multiple biomarkers, including nitrites, ammonia, cytokines, acetone, and viral pathogens. A flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) processes signals and facilitates wireless communication. Additionally, a sunshield made from hybrid metamaterials provides extra functionality.

Applications and Benefits

This smart mask offers a user-friendly platform for early diagnosis and health status monitoring. By embedding sophisticated health monitoring capabilities into a wearable device, it enhances preventative healthcare practices. The system's ability to operate in diverse environments makes it accessible for both clinical and non-clinical applications, broadening its potential impact on personal health surveillance and disease management.