(MAKE ME A CONCLUSION WITH THE INFORMATION PROVIDED)
-Summarize the highlights of the report and provide a concluding statement.
-What is the report all about?
-Summary of the mechanism description
-Summary of the process description
-Summary of the Ideation Plan
-End up with importance and usefulness of the product/service


INFO BELOW:

Theoretical Background (Banaag, Benedict B.)


MistBlock is a product that is being developed with the intention of resolving the widespread issue of glasses fogging up while wearing a face mask. It combines the words “mist” and “block” to indicate its objective of limiting or blocking the moisture that ordinary facemasks may generate, which can often cause glasses to fog up. This can be seen reflected in the fact that its name contains both of these words. The daily experience of people who wear masks is improved by MistBlock’s ability to cut down on fogging; this contributes to a society that is both safer and more efficient. The upgraded face mask has a design that includes a double layer with an inner layer that absorbs moisture, an adjustable nose bridge for a better seal, and a comfortable fit. Additionally, the nasal bridge can be adjusted for a better fit. It not only eliminates the problem of glasses fogging up but also encourages the use of masks in a manner that is efficient and pleasant. In addition, MistBlock provides an improved level of comfort, a flexible fit, easier maintenance, an affordable price point, and a style that is both elegant and beautiful. MistBlock contributes to the larger social goals of improving safety, productivity, and clear communication in a variety of contexts by its innovative nature and its primary emphasis on resolving a particular annoyance brought about by mist.


I. Mechanism Description (Antiado, Francesca Summer D.)
Face Masks are used for protection from air-borne illnesses and also protect other people from accumulating diseases.
Since the pandemic’s start, face masks have been a top requirement outside our homes and entering facilities. Face masks are essential for several reasons, especially when there is a risk of infectious diseases like COVID-19.
A typical surgical face mask is composed of the following parts: (a) Elastic ear loop; (b) heat-welded seam; © outer layer of spun-bond polypropylene fabric; (d) central core of melt-blown polypropylene fabric; (e) inner layer of spun-bond polypropylene fabric (Research Gate, n.d.).
A face mask serves as a filter, preventing the spread of infectious particles to the surrounding environment. It is also effective as a barrier that captures droplets emitted from talking, sneezing, and coughing. Different types of face masks have a level of protection for the wearer and from the wearer.
Face masks are worn through an elastic ear loop, then are placed from the nose, down to the chin. A face mask has an adjustable metal around the nose part to make sure that the mask is intact.




Function


There are several types of face masks such as surgical, fabric, N95, and more. There are also different sizes as to who would wear the mask. It has been essential to wear a mask in public places because of how the COVID-19 has emerged.


While the primary purpose of wearing a mask is to protect others, certain types of masks, such as N95 respirators, offer a higher level of filtration and can provide some protection to the wearer. These masks can filter out smaller particles, including some airborne viruses.


A face mask can cover our mouths and noses which is where diseases can come from.


Physical Attributes or Appearance
Polypropylene polymers are the raw material used in making a face mask. This polymer requires a special grade and a High Melt Flow Index (MFI). Next will be a nonwoven meltblown process for the middle part of the mask which features electrostatic charging. Meanwhile, a masks’ outer layer is made with the nonwoven spunbond process. After the process of creating the three layers, it is now subject to be calendered together from the filter media.
Lastly, the mask pleated and seamed in a converting line which is now the medical face mask.
All face masks almost have the same process of creation but there are differences when it comes to different types of it.
Principal Parts/Operation


Nose piece
The nose piece is a small wire seamed inside the fabric of the mask. It is located on the top of the mask in order to place the mask across the bridge of the nose. The nose piece/wire secures the mask in our face for it to stay intact and reduce the movement of the mask around our face.


Elastic Ear Loop
The elastic ear loop is what holds the mask onto our face. It secures the mask from being removed from our face which holds it from behind our ears.


Pleats of the mask
The pleats of the mask are located from the outer layer of the mask. It allows the mask to be expanded according to the size of the face of the wearer. The pleats of the mask moves upward/downward from the face.


Woven Fabric
The woven fabric is the body of the mask. There are usually 3 layers of the fabric, which is what protects our face from viruses and diseases. The woven fabrics are what covers our nose and mouth, and the one that prevents the droplets emitted from going out of the mask.

II. Process Description - (Ardais, Synoe Alfred N.)
What are the chief steps involved in using the product/service?
Preparation: Before using the mask, ensure your hands are clean by washing them thoroughly with soap and water or using hand sanitizer.
Proper placement: Hold the mask by the ear loops or ties, and position it over your nose and mouth. Ensure the inner layer is facing towards your face.
Secure fit: Adjust the mask to cover your nose, mouth, and chin completely. Use the adjustable nose clip to create a tight seal by molding it around the shape of your nose. Ensure that the mask fits snugly against the sides of your face to minimize air leakage.
Comfortable wear: Once the mask is properly secured, ensure that it feels comfortable on your face. Adjust the ear loops or ties if needed to achieve a comfortable and secure fit.
Adjust glasses, if necessary: If you wear glasses, make any necessary adjustments to ensure they sit comfortably over the mask without causing pressure or discomfort.
Breathing and communication: Breathe normally through the mask while avoiding touching or adjusting it unnecessarily. Use clear and audible speech to communicate effectively while wearing the mask.
Removal and storage: To remove the mask, avoid touching the front or inner layer. Remove it by the ear loops or ties and immediately place it in a designated storage or disposal area. Wash your hands thoroughly after removal.


Who performs the process?
The process of using the MistBlock Face Mask is performed by the individual who is wearing the mask. The user is responsible for preparing the mask, properly placing it over their nose and mouth, adjusting the fit, and ensuring comfortable wear. The user also performs the removal and storage of the mask after use. It is essential for individuals to follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper and effective usage of the mask.Why is this process performed?


Why is this process performed?
The process of using the MistBlock Face Mask is performed to address the need for personal protection and to minimize the fogging of glasses while wearing a mask. By properly using the mask, individuals can create a barrier that helps prevent the spread of respiratory droplets and particles, reducing the risk of transmitting or contracting infectious diseases. Additionally, by ensuring a snug fit and reducing fogging on glasses, the mask enhances visibility and comfort for individuals who wear glasses, allowing them to maintain clear vision while protecting themselves and others. The process is performed to promote safety, prevent the spread of pathogens, and improve the overall mask-wearing experience.


What are parts that contribute to the overall function of the product/service?
Outer layer: The outer layer is typically made of a material that provides filtration and serves as a barrier against particles and droplets.
Inner layer: The inner layer is designed with a moisture-absorbing fabric that helps capture and trap moisture from exhaled breath, reducing fogging on glasses.
Nose clip or bridge: The mask includes an adjustable nose clip or bridge, usually made of metal or plastic, which helps shape the mask to the contours of the wearer’s nose, improving fit and reducing breath escape.
Ear loops or ties: The mask is equipped with ear loops or ties, made of elastic or fabric, to secure the mask in place over the ears or behind the head.
Stitching and seams: The stitching and seams hold the different layers and components of the mask together, ensuring structural integrity and durability.


III. Ideation Plan- (De Leon, Marc Andrei P.)
What present issues lie within the old product/service that users dislike?
According to an article’s case reports, there were injuries associated with face masks impairing people’s vision. One is that of a patient who suffered a fall because of facemasks hindering her field of view, and another is that of a patient who suffered a fall because of face masks fogging her glasses (Face Masks and Falls, 2022).The old product, which is the usual face mask people wear, suffers from several issues like glass fogging and hindered field of view as seen in the case report, and there is also inadequate ventilation, poor fit and seal, limited adjustability, and reusability.

What improvement will make the product better?
The old facemask people use can be better through several enhancements. One improvement would be enhancing breathability. This feature would be particularly beneficial to the comfort of extended periods of face mask usage. Another is incorporating washable and reusable materials. This improvement would allow users to clean and reuse the masks easily, reducing environmental impact and providing a more cost-effective solution in the long run. Lastly, a better fit that blocks the user’s breath going to the glass, which may cause glass fogging. This improvement will help maintain clear vision for individuals who wear glasses, reducing the inconvenience and discomfort associated with fogged lenses.

Proposed Product/service
The proposed product is called MistBlock, a face mask designed to address common issues associated with people’s usual face masks, like glass fogging, comfortability, poor ventilation, and hygiene, all for a reasonable price.

What will be the proposed product/service new features, accessories that will make it more likeable and marketable?
The MistBlock Face Mask enhances the overall user experience through various advantages. It features a double-layered construction with a moisture-absorbing inner layer, reducing stickiness associated with prolonged use and providing enhanced comfort. The mask’s adjustable nose clip ensures a versatile fit, securely accommodating various face shapes and sizes for maximum effectiveness and comfort. Easy cleaning and reusability are emphasized, with clear manufacturer instructions promoting hygiene and ensuring product longevity.

Existing Product:
According to a study the existing face mask or the usual 3-Ply Surgical Mask available in the market typically offers only three layers of non woven fabric without a specialized moisture-absorbing inner layer. This can result in stickiness and discomfort during prolonged use. The fit of the existing product often only uses metal wire to be molded along the nose bridge by the user which usually doesn’t do enough to stop the user’s breathe from coming up into the user’s glasses. Cleaning and reusing this face mask may be possible but it is not recommended according to Lee et al. (2021) as this may cause danger to the health of the user.

Proposed Product (MistBlock):
The proposed product, MistBlock Face Mask, introduces several improvements to enhance the user experience. It features a double-layered construction with a moisture-absorbing inner layer plus another layer of three-ply non-woven fabric found in the existing face masks, addressing the stickiness issue and providing enhanced comfort. The adjustable nose clip allows for a versatile fit, accommodating various face shapes and sizes securely. The MistBlock Face Mask emphasizes reusability and cleaning, promoting proper hygiene and ensuring the longevity of the product.

Will the proposed product/service contribute more than what the existing product has contributed?
MistBlock aims to contribute more to the user experience compared to the existing product by incorporating features such as adjustable nose clip, moisture-absorbing inner layer, breathable materials, and washable/reusable options. These enhancements address common concerns, improve fit and comfort, reduce fogging, enhance breathability, and promote sustainability. While the existing product has made contributions, the proposed product/service seeks to build upon those contributions and provide additional benefits to meet user needs and expectations.

Who will be your target audience?
The MistBlock product is designed to cater to a wide range of individuals, regardless of age or gender, with a primary focus on those who wear glasses. The target audience includes individuals who wear prescription glasses, sunglasses, safety goggles, or any other type of eyewear. These individuals often face the discomfort of fogging when wearing face masks. The MistBlock aims to specifically address this concern by providing a solution that enhances both comfort and visibility, ensuring a better experience for those who rely on eyewear.