Gadgets

Razer reusable smart mask with fans, N95 protection and of course backlighting (2 photos + video)


The global COVID-19 pandemic has led tosignificant changes in all spheres of human life, including led to the emergence of an updated range of products of high-tech firms. Razer showcased a reusable N95-compliant face shield called Project Hazel at CES 2021. The developers are positioning the new product as "the world's smartest respirator" capable of filtering up to 95% of small particles.

To date, the company has not announced any pricing.no time frame for the launch of the Project Hazel mask into mass production. The model unveiled at CES 2021 is a prototype, and regulators have yet to issue an official N95 certification for the mask. The demonstration prototype has a high-gloss, scratch-resistant and waterproof surface.

According to the developers, to be manufacturedthe mask will be made of recycled plastic. The surface of the mask is transparent, which allows the interlocutor to read lips and track the user's facial expressions. Razer is currently in talks and is working with some medical companies.


Project Hazel's signature lookprovided by two round ventilation zones on the side surfaces of the mask, which makes it similar to gas masks. The developers plan to install active disc fans in these areas, which filter both inhaled and exhaled air. Compliance with the norms of certificate No. 95 indicates the desire of the developers to provide the mask user with protection from 955 of all small particles, including COVID-19 viruses.

Project Hazel's mask design suggests thatdisk fans will be removable and can be quickly replaced. Currently, the developers of the Razer smart mask face two main questions: how to signal the user to replace the protective valves and what is the standard frequency of their replacement. It is assumed that the warning will be sent in the form of a notification to the user's smartphone through a special mobile application.

To ensure comfortable communication betweenusers of the Project Hazel mask will provide for the placement of speakers and microphones on it. Working with THX sound engineers will allow Razer to minimize the impact of the user's voice amplified by the speakers on those around them.

In the design of the Project Hazel mask, the engineers took into accountuser comfort, combining it with an increase in the effectiveness of protective functions. So the soft rubber seal not only provides comfort when wearing the mask, but also guarantees a snug fit to the face, which minimizes the intake of air that does not pass through the filters. The ear loops are adjustable to accommodate the anatomical features of the user's head.


Traditionally for Razer, the deviceis supplied with proprietary Chroma RGB lighting, installed in the area of ​​the speakers and valve rings. The lighting will not only give the mask a futuristic look, but also solve the practical problem of illuminating the area near the user's mouth, so that the interlocutor can track the articulation of his lips.

The mask will be available in gray and black.An additional case is currently being developed to allow ultraviolet sterilization of the mask after use throughout the day. The time to market and the price of the Project Hazel mask have yet to be determined.