Modular mask system

Abstract

A modular mask system comprises a frame for fitting over a user's head, and a set of interchangeable mask components. Each interchangeable mask components can be removeably attachable to the frame. Each of the interchangeable mask components is one of a top panel, a side panel assembly, an eyepiece and a nosepiece. The interchangeable side panel assemblies can be different sizes to accommodate the user's face or have different patterns or have different configurations of ventilation holes. The interchangeable eyepieces allow the user to choose from dual lenses and a single shield. The eyepieces can include optically powered lenses, shaded lenses, dual lenses tinted lenses, photochromatic lenses and polarized lenses.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a protective headgear and more particularly, to a modular mask system adapted to protect people engaging in physical activities. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] A wide variety of protective head gear such as masks are available for use in activities where physical danger to the head of the user is inherent. An example of such an activity is the game of paintball where players try to hit their opponents by projecting paintballs. In order to protect the player's head, components are designed to protect various parts of the head such as the eyes, nose, forehead, cheeks and ears. These components are assembled to form a mask. However, once a mask becomes assembled, the components of the mask cannot be removed or replaced, except possibly the exact replacement of a damaged one-piece eye shield or visor by another eyepiece or visor. As a result, when a mask's protective components such as protective panels are damaged the e...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012] Typically, the protective side panels cover and protect wearer's cheeks, the top protective piece covers the forehead and a nosepiece covers the nose and mouth region of the wearer's face. In addition, an eyepiece comprising of dual lenses can be attached to the frame to protect the eyes. The components of the mask can be made of different materials to accommodate different functions. For example, it may be desirable to use soft material in the protective side panels to resist breakage of an impacting paintball. It can also be advantageous to have camouflage patterned panels including, for example, combat style forest camouflage or uniform colours such as black or white in order to allow the user to hide more effectively or blend into a given environment or terrain.

[0013] Advantageously, the modular mask system of the present invention enables the wearer to adapt to different environmental conditions and activities.

Problems solved by technology

However, once a mask becomes assembled, the components of the mask cannot be removed or replaced, except possibly the exact replacement of a damaged one-piece eye shield or visor by another eyepiece or visor.

As a result, when a mask's protective components such as protective panels are damaged the entire mask must be replaced.

Another disadvantage of a conventional mask is that it cannot be modified to adapt to a new environment.

However, since the components of a conventional mask cannot be replaced, the conventional mask cannot be adapted to provide appropriate ventilation or camouflage in different environments.

Additionally, conventional modular masks are not responsive to changing lighting conditions.

Conventional clear eyepieces afford physical protection from objects only and do not enhance vision or reduce undesirable environmental factors such as very bright light, glare, etc.

A further disadvantage of a conventional modular mask is that the components are typically created of the similar material.

Images