HEXA: the smart face mask that doubles up as an air quality monitor
KOOLMASK launched a Kickstarter campaign today for a smart clean-air mask called HEXA. Featuring impressive specs, it protects against contaminants while doubling up as an air quality monitor.
We assume that exercise is good for us but this may not always be the case, particularly if you live in a large city. Some 40% of Americans are exposed to excessive smog levels, while in Europe unclean air causes 500,000 premature deaths every year.
Powered by a separate mobile power bank, HEXA features two customized fans and a control dial to adjust the air flow. It can deliver up to 150 liters of clean air per minute which is 20 times the amount you consume while resting. This increased air supply alleviates pressure from your lungs and helps you breathe better, whether you are sitting in a crowded underground station or on a early morning run.
Featuring an open honeycomb structure, the mask has a replaceable, proprietary air filter with a triple layer system. This enables protection against lethal particles including PM10 (coarse particles), and PM2.5 (fine particles), allergens, exhaust, smoke, ozone, volatile organic compounds (VOC), odors, bacteria and viruses.
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HEXA’s control unit also doubles up as an air quality sensor. It monitors your surroundings and sends real-time alerts with LED lights or smartphone notifications if the air quality deteriorates. The smart control unit can be used independently, without connecting to the mask or battery.
Finally, there is also a smartphone app which maps out pollution in your area. Once connected to a WiFi network it downloads your air quality data so you can share it with your loved ones or the HEXA community.
This certainly seems like a all encompassing solution for anyone exposed to polluted air including commuters, motorists, athletes and allergy sufferers. The Kickstarter campaign is off to a great start and is well on its way to meeting its $30,000 goal. It will be a bit of a wait before backers get their mask, though. Delivery is scheduled for September next year.
Price: $69 and up
Funding open:
$12,480 raised out of $30,000 goal
40 days to go
Estimated delivery: September 2018
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