A framework for effective face-mask contact modeling based on finite element analysis for custom design of a facial mask

PLoS One. 2022 Jul 21;17(7):e0270092. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270092. eCollection 2022.

Abstract

A novel contact model is presented to efficiently solve a face-mask contact problem by using the finite element (FE) method for the optimized design of a custom facial mask. Simulation of contact pressure for various mask designs considering material properties of the face allows virtual evaluation of the suitability of a mask design for a person's face without conducting empirical measurement of the face-mask contact pressure. The proposed contact model is accomplished by combining three approaches to reduce the calculation cost of simulating the face-mask contact: (1) use of a simplified and modifiable mask model that applies a spline curve to design points; (2) reduction of the FE model of the face by applying static condensation; and (3) application of a contact assumption that uses the Lagrange multiplier method. A numerical case study of a medical mask design showed that the proposed model could calculate the face-mask contact pressure efficiently (0.0448 sec per design). In a pilot usability experiment, the measured contact pressure was found similar values (range of mean contact pressure: 0.0093 ~ 0.0150 MPa) to the estimated values (range of mean contact pressure: 0.0097 ~ 0.0116 MPa).

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation
  • Extraoral Traction Appliances*
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Humans
  • Masks*

Associated data

  • figshare/10.6084/m9.figshare.20055167

Grants and funding

Acknowledgement - This research was jointly supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grants funded by Korea Government (2020R1F1A1050076 and 2021R1A2C4087079). Initials and grant numbers - WL: 2020R1F1A1050076 - JGK: 2021R1A2C4087079 Full name of each funder - the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) (URL: https://www.nrf.re.kr/eng/index) Did the sponsors or funders play any role in the study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript? - NO. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.