Wearable protective apparel containing a protective mask and methods

Abstract

Wearable protective apparel including a shirt and an integral protective mask attached to a collar of the shirt, with the mask being adapted to filter out biologic agents or particulate matter from air that a user may breathe in or out. The mask is attached to only a forward-oriented portion of the collar that is less than half a perimeter of the collar. The mask includes an attachment component that secures the mask in an operating position and allows the mask to cover the nose and mouth area of a user. The mask may be formed from multiple plies of breathable washable fabric that allow for filtering biologic agents or particulate matter. The wearable protective apparel provides the user with convenient and easy access to a protective mask at a moment's notice and allows the mask to be easily and comfortably hidden.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND CLAIM TO PRIORITY[0001]This application is based upon provisional patent application No. 63 / 021,252 filed May 7, 2020 in the United States of America, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference and to which priority is claimed.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention generally relates to wearable protective apparel, such as a shirt, that contains a protective mask attached thereto, and methods of using such apparel.BACKGROUND[0003]With the COVID-19 pandemic spreading around the world, person to person transmission of the disease has been a major concern in the spread of the disease. As such, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has recommended social distancing and wearing face masks in public for preventing the spread of the disease. The recommendations aim to protect the individual from the disease, as well as protecting the public from diseased individuals. However, many find it inconvenient to carry around a ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The wearable protective apparel described in this patent provides a convenient and easy-to-use way to protect against airborne disease. The mask is made from at least two layers of fabric that can filter biologic agents and particulates. It can be attached to the user's ears or the collar of the garment using straps or a flexible strip that conforms to the user's face. The mask is secured in place and can be easily removed or stowed. This invention solves the problem of having to carry a separate mask and ensures that the user has ready access to protection at all times.

Problems solved by technology

However, many find it inconvenient to carry around a protective face mask when going out in public.

In addition, many may not remember to carry a face mask with them when they leave the house, only to be refused admission to businesses, such as supermarkets or stores.

As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, the recommendations, rules, and requirements put forth by the CDC and State governments evolve and change rapidly, making it difficult to know exactly when a protective face mask may be needed.

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