Kiryu, GUNMA -- A group of researchers has developed a helmet-like, full face mask that can curb coronavirus infections -- and is expected to make people free from the self-restraint of going out.
The researchers, led by Prof. Yusaku Fujii at Gunma University's Graduate School of Science and Technology, constructed the mask with an air supply and exhaust tube that has a filter that blocks coronavirus and which is connected to an external unit containing a pump and rechargeable batteries.
The air pressure inside the helmet is slightly increased to prevent the outside air, including the virus, from entering. And even if a person is infected, the virus is not discharged outside because the mask, which uses acrylic resin, covers the whole head. Moreover, the air supply and exhaust tubes control the flow of air inside the mask, making it easier to breathe.
The prototype has a helmet section that weighs about 400 grams and an external unit that weighs about 1.5 kilograms. If 10,000 sets are produced, the retail price is expected to be within about 2,000 yen per set.
"Vaccines and treatments for the new coronavirus are not expected to be completed for some time. If most people wear this in the event of a second wave, they will not be infected and will not be forced to stay at home or refrain from doing business," Fujii said.
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