Hard Shell Filter Mask

thingiverse

<b>Note:</b> this is a dust filter mask designed for users who need to create their own filter material. Proper medical masks should be used by medical staff to prevent viruses. This mask does not filter anything on its own, requiring you to supply your own filter material. <b><u>Updates</u></b> <b><u>Summary</u></b> I previously designed a mask printed in TPU that could be snapped together. The design is available here: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4224005 To accommodate users who cannot print TPU, I created a new Hard Shell mask that can be printed in PLA. This mask requires no supports and is thin and light. It has two different filter cartridges for use with various materials. These are the same as those used in my previous TPU mask design. The shell can be adjusted to fit individual faces by placing it in hot water, then carefully shaping the nose area. I achieved this by running the upper nose piece under a hot water tap until it softened slightly and bending the necessary areas to fit my nose bridge. Foam or padding can also be applied to the inner edges for added comfort, but this would make cleaning more difficult. I have included three versions of the mask: 1. A plain cartridge sleeve that works with TPU cartridges. 2. A threaded cartridge sleeve that fits PLA cartridges with an M40 x 3 thread, which has been slightly adjusted for easier assembly. 3. A version without a sleeve, allowing users to design their own threaded coupler. Filter cartridges printed in PLA do not flex well and may not slide easily over the unthreaded sleeve. If you prefer this method and are printing in PLA, consider scaling the cartridge to fit it over the sleeve. A thin separator is also included to help hold filter material in place if needed. Please let me know of any necessary changes. I attempted to print this design in TPU but was unable due to limitations with my filament. If you have access to flexible filament that holds its shape during printing, you may experience better results. Printing in TPU would also take significantly longer than printing in PLA.