Adjustable facial conforming face mask

Abstract

An adjustable face mask having a body conforming substantially to the facial structure of a wearer. The face mask is provided with a neck protector and removable filter and with a strip of fabric designed to push air down to the sides of the wearer's face in order to eliminate fogging of the wearer's goggles. The face mask can optionally provide neck protection with a descending neck member.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS INFORMATION[0001]This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 983,839, filed Jan. 3, 2011, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The current invention relates generally to face masks and face coverings. More specifically it relates to face masks that provide continuous air filtration, face and neck protection and warmth particularly while the wearer is moving at high speeds such as riding on a motorcycle, skiing, and participating in various motorsports.[0004]2. Prior Art[0005]It has become ever more popular in recent years for young and older people alike to ride motorcycles. Many motor & power sport enthusiasts enjoy multiple activities from street-bikes to ATVs, off-road bikes, side-by-sides and snowmobiles.[0006]While these sports bring the enthusiast closer to nature, they of necessity tend to introduce the rider to various element...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a device that protects the face and neck of users from cold and wind by using a semi-soft malleable material, such as neoprene. The device can be secured to the user using hook and loop fasteners or other fasteners. The device can extend from the bridge of the nose to just below the shoulder line and offers full frontal neck coverage in cold-weather sports. The device has a thin semi-rigid malleable strip that allows for custom fit and a ledge that pushes air down and out along the sides of the user's face to prevent fogging of goggles. The technical effects of the invention are improved protection and warmth for the face and neck, as well as a means to prevent fogging while wearing goggles.

Problems solved by technology

While these sports bring the enthusiast closer to nature, they of necessity tend to introduce the rider to various elements including dust, debris, flying rocks, sand, insects, cold wind, snow and other common hazards.

In addition, other helmets, such as those worn by riders of snowmobiles and dirt bikes, while covering the lower face, allow for greater airflow and thus, expose the rider to cold and other hazards.

Conversely, open-faced helmets provide no face protection whatsoever to the rider that can result in some serious impacts with the rider's face by bugs and road debris in addition to providing no protection from fumes emitted from automobiles on the road.

For skiers, snowmobilers, bike riders, motorcycle riders and other motorsport enthusiasts wearing helmets, full-face helmets tend to fog quickly, especially when employed with the use of goggles.

This most often occurs due to the heavy breathing of the user, and / or temperature differentials between the interior of such shields and the atmosphere.

Further, most such shields afford no form of air filtration to protect the breathing and eyes of the rider in areas prone to dust, smoke, or pollution.

In addition, many of these existing face masks cause additional fogging issues, and, while protecting from wind and dust, do not protect against other air-born contaminants or diesel fuel, a common hazard of street-riding.

Images