Description

This is a surgical mask ear loop relief band (SMELR Band) designed to be printed with rigid plastic. The primary impediment to an amateur printing a (SMELR Band) is the required use of Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE). TPE's flexiblility is an asset to the printed model, but a liability to most 3D printers as they come out of the box. Using a linked chain of models allows for the use of rigid plastic while still allowing the band to form to the wearer's head. This design not only provides for ear loop relief, but is also whimsically shaped like a chain of sea turtles. While this is not the most efficient use of printing resources (primarily printer time), it is simple and robust enough to be printed by amateurs while providing an aesthetic appeal to encourage individuals who might not otherwise be printing SMELR Bands. The base model is roughly 160mm long, 25mm wide, and 8mm high. Version 2 has a larger head to help prevent breakage.