Taiwanese tech giant Razer has unveiled what it claimed to be the world’s smartest mask. The mask is an N95 respirator that can be reused and it is known as Project Hazel.
The device is still a concept design but going by Razer’s precedence, we may find this product going commercial soon. The mask adopts a glossy outer shell made of waterproof and scratch-resistant recycled plastic. The plastic is transparent making it possible for lip-reading and seeing facial cues when you chat with people.
The Razer describes Project Hazel as a surgical N95, but it is still in the concept stage nd is yet to clinch any of the required approvals and certifications from the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Razer also disclosed that it is working with a team of medical experts and scientists who are helping to develop the mask.
The main features of this mask lie within its two circular zones that flank your mouth. They’re used for ventilation, giving the device an almost futuristic gas mask look. Razer claims Project Hazel will use active disc-type ventilators and would filter the air that’s breathed in, as well as the CO2 that is exhaled. The company adds that it will be certified to filter 95 percent of airborne particles, including the COVID-19 virus and other common pathogens.
Also, the ventilators will be detachable and can be recharged. However, Razr is yet to explain how long the battery will last or how the user will get alerted when it’s time for a new one. A spokesperson for Razer disclosed to The Verge that the ventilators’ longevity is still being tested. As for when the filters need to be changed, Razer envisions users being notified via a mobile companion app.
Razer also embedded microphones and amplifiers in the ventilators that will project your voice through the mask, so you won’t have to worry about sounding muffled. The company has not demonstrated the use in action or had the chance to try it out ourselves. Razer told us that it’s working with THX sound engineers to find a balance in terms of how loud the speakers should be for accessibility purposes.
Razer assures that despite the pieces of tech crammed inside the Project Hazel, it still retains its comfortability. There is a silicon seal around the nose as well as adjustable ear loops so that it will fit almost everyone.
Finally, the mask comes with Razer’s trademark Chroma RGB LEDs. Each of the respirator-meets-amplifier rings can glow in the color of your choosing. And when it gets dark, a set of LEDs activate automatically to shine a light on your mouth so others can still see you talk. The LEDs automatically switch on the inside of the mask once it’s dark out.
Razer envisions that each Project Hazel mask will include a large charging case that sterilizes the mask with UV light when it’s not in use, although this is still in the concept stage.
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