AESTHETIC AND ERGONOMIC FACTORS IN THE DESIGN OF A MEDICAL PROTECTIVE MASK WITHIN THE SYSTEM OF CONTEMPORARY DESIGN

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to provide a scientific substantiation of a complex of aesthetic and ergonomic factors in the design of a medical protective mask as an object of contemporary design, as well as to define the principles of its form generation in relation to facial anthropometry, functional protection requirements, and visual-image representation within the structure of everyday and communicative human appearance. Methodology. The research methodology is based on an interdisciplinary integration of design analysis methods and an ergonomic approach. Morphological and compositional – proportional analyses of the product form were applied, taking into account the principles of harmonization and proportionality, including references to facial proportional relationships. An aesthetic – semantic analysis of the mask as an element of personal image and a carrier of communicative meanings in the post – pandemic sociocultural context was conducted. Elements of ergonomic assessment were aimed at correlating requirements for wearing comfort, fit density, fixation stability, and maintenance of the protective function with demands for visual expressiveness and the integrity of the silhouette-linear structure. Results. The study reveals that the design of a medical protective mask within the system of contemporary design should be based on the coordination of three interrelated dimensions: functional – protection, fit density, and hygienic properties; ergonomic-comfort, controllability of fit, and stability during speech and facial expressions; and aesthetic – compositional – harmonization with facial proportions, rhythmic – linear organization, and visual balance. The expediency of interpreting the mask as an object of form generation is substantiated, and design factors that enhance the aesthetic integration of the mask into the overall image in accordance with the context of use are systematized. Scientific novelty. Scientific novelty lies in the comprehensive conceptualization of the medical protective mask as an object of contemporary design in which aesthetic and ergonomic parameters function not as auxiliary characteristics but as system – forming factors of the design solution. The principles of harmonizing the mask form with facial proportions within a compositional – proportional framework are refined, and the interdependence between the ergonomic adequacy of the product and its visual correctness within the costume image’s structure is outlined. Practical relevance. The practical significance of the results consists in the possibility of applying the formulated provisions to the development of design requirements for medical mask projects, the creation of both mass-produced and individualized models, as well as to the expert evaluation of existing products according to the criteria of ergonomics and aesthetic integration into the user’s image.