Compressible Bladder-Sealed Face Mask

Patent & Production

At a glance

What the claims cover, in plain language

Claim 1 defines a mask comprising a mask body and a main body bladder. The bladder has an internal cavity and is equipped with an anti-drawstring strap connected to the mask body and/or the bladder itself. The strap extends outward to form a rope or elastic cord for the head. The key feature is the arrangement where the anti-drawstring is placed on both sides of the main body bladder and the mask body.

Dependent claims elaborate on variations:

• Claims 2-3: Describe hump-shaped bladders or protrusions specifically located at the nose bridge area to accommodate higher nasal profiles.
• Claims 4: Details ring-shaped or tire-like configurations for the peripheral bladder.
• Claims 5-7: Specify that the cavity is filled with gas or liquid, with the volume being less than the maximum capacity (often one-third to one-half) to ensure compressibility.
• Claims 11-13: Include optional iron clips for stiffness and inflation ports for filling the cavity.
• Claims 17-19: Describe connection methods such as sewing, bonding, or welding for attaching the bladder to the mask body or straps.

This is a simplified reading for orientation only. The legal scope is defined by the exact claim wording in the official Chinese document.

What this means for US production

This patent was filed in China and has lapsed, so it no longer restricts anyone in China either. The public record shows no US or other foreign counterpart.

Two points to settle early:

• Other patents may exist. Face masks and respiratory protective devices are a densely patented field globally, including many US patents covering inflatable seals, valve systems, and ergonomic fits. Notably, Shenzhen Nateni Technology Co ltd has a related WO application (WO2021151400A1) citing this work, indicating active IP development in this specific niche. A freedom-to-operate (FTO) review is essential before tooling to avoid infringing on existing US utility patents regarding mask sealing mechanisms.
• Material compatibility. The design relies on thin plastic films holding gas/liquid. Selecting films that are safe for skin contact, durable enough to hold pressure, and compatible with sterilization processes (if required) is a critical engineering challenge distinct from the patent landscape.

Customization and manufacturing

What can be customized

Things to plan for (US market)

• FDA Registration: While this is a structural device, if marketed for medical use, FDA registration and listing are required. If sold as general consumer goods, labeling must comply with FTC truth-in-advertising rules.
• Biocompatibility: Materials contacting the face should meet ISO 10993 standards for cytotoxicity and sensitization, especially since the bladder sits close to the skin.
• Flammability: CPSC 16 CFR 1610 applies to textile apparel; mask bodies often fall under similar scrutiny depending on material composition.
• Labeling: Clear instructions on inflation/deflation and disposal are necessary to prevent misuse.

How a project runs

1. Inquiry - Define target market (medical vs. industrial), size range, and fill type.
2. Design - CAD modeling of the bladder geometry and strap attachment points.
3. Prototype - Sample production using standard film welding techniques.
4. Testing - Fit testing on diverse mannequins and volunteers; leakage rate measurement.
5. Production - Automated roll-forming of bladders, ultrasonic welding to mask body, packaging.

Quantities & timeline

Tooling for ultrasonic welders and die-cutting blades is relatively quick. Injection molding is only needed if rigid clips or valves are added. Lead times depend heavily on sourcing certified medical-grade films. Send us your target quantity, material preferences, and intended certification level and we will reply with options.

Production notes

Tooling and process

Likely heat pressing for joining plastic films, with cutting and sewing for the straps. TPU injection molding might be required for valves or clips. Bond strength is typically checked on first articles.

Cost drivers

Fabric grade usually dominates costs; high-barrier films are pricier. Stitch density affects durability. Seal die complexity typically matters more than the film, and the number of sizes increases inventory needs. Packaging adds bulk.

Prototyping path

A sewn first sample typically validates strap tension. 3D-printed or cast components test rigid interfaces. Wear trials check comfort, and fit grading confirms size accuracy before production patterns finalize cutting layouts.

What we would change before tooling

We would likely adjust bladder thickness to balance seal against comfort. Test alternative adhesives if the bond fails. Verify inflation port placement for ease of use. Check strap elasticity limits. Refine the nose bridge contour.

Common failure points

Seam slippage at strap connections is a typical failure. Color may fade from UV exposure. Sealing surface leaks can come from pinholes. Size deviation in film cutting, hardware corrosion if metal clips are used, and edge hardness causing skin irritation are the other points to watch.

Patent drawings

Drawings reproduced from the public patent document for reference.

Frequently asked questions

How does the bladder create a seal?

The bladder is a tube with an internal cavity filled with gas or liquid. Because the fill volume is less than the maximum capacity, the bladder remains compressible. When pressed against the face, the fluid shifts to fill gaps between the mask and the skin, adapting to curves like the nose and cheeks.

Is it reusable?

The patent describes it primarily as a disposable item (“the mask is disposable”). However, the bladder structure could theoretically be reused if the film is durable enough and cleaned properly. Most designs assume single-use to maintain hygiene and low cost.

What materials are used?

The patent mentions plastic films for the bladder and standard mask media for the body. It also references silica gel or other soft materials as alternatives, though plastic film is preferred for cost. Metal clips may be used for structural support at the nose bridge.

Do I need to inflate it myself?

It depends on the version. Some are pre-filled at the factory. Others include an inflation port (claim 12) allowing the user to blow into the mask to adjust firmness. The patent notes that leaving it partially deflated can help with storage volume.

Will it fit children?

The patent focuses on adult structures but mentions customizable sizes. Child versions would require scaled-down bladders and shorter straps. Fit testing is crucial because small faces have different gap geometries.

Does it interfere with glasses?

The patent includes hump-shaped bladders near the nose bridge (claim 2). These can lift the mask slightly away from the eyes, potentially reducing fogging compared to flat-nose masks, though specific anti-fog vents are not detailed in this patent.

Can this design be made and sold in the US?

The patent was filed in China and has lapsed, and the public record shows no US counterpart, so it does not restrict the design in the US or in China. However, face masks are subject to numerous other patents and regulatory standards. We recommend a freedom-to-operate check and FDA consultation before volume production.

Are you affiliated with the patent owner?

No. IP2M is an independent design and manufacturing service working from the public patent document.

Request a quote

Click Request a Quote below to see our email address - copy it, or open your email app with a ready-made message. Please mention patent CN213523924U in the subject.

Helpful details to include:

• Your company and channel (PPE supplier, medical distributor, consumer brand)
• Target market (adult, child, industrial, medical)
• Material preferences (film type, strap style)
• Inflation method (pre-filled, manual port, none)
• Estimated quantity and target price
• Timeline - when you would like samples and the first shipment

You can also reach us at (332) 203-9997.