Face mask

Abstract

A mask comprises: a mask body; a pair of ear components coupled to the mask body; and auxiliary material disposed on the outer surface of the mask body. Before use, the pair of ear components are detachably coupled to and disposed on the outer surface of the mask body. The ear components have a wavy profile and are respectively coupled to the outer surfaces of the side portions of the mask body via the auxiliary material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mask. Background Art

[0002] As a structure of a mask worn on the face, there is a known mask that includes a mask body that at least partially covers the wearer's face, and a pair of ear parts (or ear hooks) respectively connected to the mask body, that is, a pair of parts that can be hung on the wearer's ears in order to hold the mask body in a specified position.

[0003] In recent years, in addition to improving mask functionality and comfort, various mask designs have been studied from the perspective of ease of manufacturing. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a mask comprising a mask body and ear hooks connected to the mask body. The ear hooks are joined to two end regions, and the ear hooks are configured so that when viewed from above, the ear hooks, which are joined to the two end regions of the mask body, are located within the outer shape of the mask body. The mask also includes a connecting portion that connects the ear hooks within the outer shape of the mask body.

[0004] (Prior art literature)

[0005] (Patent Document)

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5762803 Summary of the Invention

[0007] (Problems to be solved by the present invention)

[0008] To use the mask disclosed in Patent Document 1, the connected ear loops must first be separated and opened laterally. However, depending on the structure of the ear loop joints and the user's method of separation, the connection between the ear loops and the mask body may be damaged during separation and opening. On the other hand, while hardening the connection to create a stronger bond is an option, this would reduce the mask's flexibility and could cause discomfort when the connection comes into contact with the skin.

[0009] In view of the above, an object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a mask that is strong and has a good wearing feel.

[0010] (Methods used to solve problems)

[0011] One embodiment of the present invention is a mask comprising: a mask body; a pair of ear components coupled to the mask body; and auxiliary material disposed on the outer surface of the mask body. Before use, the pair of ear components are separably coupled to and disposed on the outer surface of the mask body. The ear components have a wavy profile, and the pair of ear components are respectively coupled to the outer surfaces of the side portions of the mask body via the auxiliary material.

[0012] (Effects of the Invention)

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a mask that is strong and has a good wearing feeling can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 This is a plan view of the outside of the mask according to one embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the outside.

[0015] Figure 2 Observe from the inside (face side) Figure 1 Top view of the mask shown.

[0016] Figure 3 Is used to illustrate Figure 1 A diagram showing an example of how to use a mask.

[0017] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Line II cross-sectional view.

[0018] Figure 5 is Figure 3 A top view of the mask with a pair of ear pieces opened to the side.

[0019] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Cross-sectional view along line II-II.

[0020] Figure 7 These are enlarged top views and cross-sectional views of the portion where auxiliary materials are provided before the mask is used.

[0021] Figure 8 These are an enlarged top view and a cross-sectional view of a portion where auxiliary material is provided, in a state where the ear member is opened to the side.

[0022] Figure 9 It is an enlarged view of the first bonding portion and the second bonding portion.

[0023] Figure 10 These are an enlarged plan view and a cross-sectional view of a portion provided with auxiliary materials in a modified example of the present embodiment, before use of the mask.

[0024] Figure 11 is based on Figure 10 An enlarged top view and a cross-sectional view of a portion where auxiliary materials are provided, in a state where the ear components of the mask of the example are opened to the side. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, identical or corresponding components may be assigned the same reference numerals in the drawings, and their description may be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings are schematic diagrams intended to facilitate understanding of the invention.

[0026] (Basic composition of masks)

[0027] A mask according to one embodiment of the present invention can cover the wearer's face, more specifically, at least the wearer's nose and mouth. This mask can also function to prevent foreign matter from reaching the face or to prevent the wearer's droplets from scattering, and is also known as a sanitary mask or surgical mask. The mask can be disposable or reusable through washing.

[0028] Figure 1 A top view of the mask 100 according to this embodiment is shown. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the mask 100 from the outside, that is, the side that is not facing the face when worn and is exposed to the outside. Figure 2 A top view of the mask viewed from the inside (face side) is shown.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the mask 100 of this embodiment is placed on the front of the wearer's face when worn, and includes a mask body 10 (also referred to as the body) that can mainly cover the wearer's nose and mouth, and a pair of ear parts 20, 20 connected to the mask body 10. The mask body 10 has a longitudinal direction D1 corresponding to the vertical direction of the wearer's face when worn, and a lateral direction D2 that is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction D1. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the mask body 10 has a rectangular planar shape having long sides in the horizontal direction D2, but the planar shape of the mask body 10 is not limited to the shape shown in the figure.

[0030] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the mask body 10 has a pleated structure 15 formed by a plurality of pleats arranged in the longitudinal direction D1. The pleats of the pleated structure 15 are formed by folding the sheet constituting the mask body 10 along a fold line extending in the transverse direction D2. With the pleats formed, the side portions (ends in the transverse direction D2) of the mask body 10 are joined and fixed. Therefore, when the mask 100 is in use, the pleats of the pleated structure 15 are unfolded in the longitudinal direction D1, and the center portion in the transverse direction D2 is bent so as to protrude toward the outer surface of the mask 100, thereby deforming into a three-dimensional shape that fits the face. The specific configuration of the pleated structure 15 is not particularly limited and can be any known configuration formed on the mask body.

[0031] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, a pair of ear components 20, 20 are arranged on the outer surface of the main body 10. Figure 1 As shown, the ear piece 20 can be ring-shaped or have a top view shape including a ring. When worn, the ear piece 20 can be hung on the ear so that the wearer's ear enters the inner side of the ring of the ear piece 20, that is, enters the opening 29 in the center of the ear piece 20.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, the contour of the earpiece 20 loop can have a wavy shape or be formed with projections and depressions. Furthermore, the wavy shape can be provided on at least one of the inner or outer contours of the loop, but it is preferably provided at least on the inner contour. The wavy shape need not extend over the entire contour of the earpiece 20 loop; it is preferably formed, for example, in the portion of the earpiece 20 that contacts the ear when the mask 100 is worn, that is, in the portion located near the center of the lateral direction D2 of the mask 100 before use. In particular, by forming a wavy shape on the inner contour of the portion that contacts the ear when worn, the projections within the wavy shape are independent and easily movable, allowing the earpiece 20 to easily conform to the shape of the ear and stably position the earpiece 20 against the back of the ear when the mask 100 is worn.

[0033] The pair of ear members 20, 20 may be formed as continuous sheets that are separably joined to each other in the center of the transverse direction D2. The form of the separable joining portion 28 of the pair of ear members 20, 20 is not particularly limited, but is preferably a separable joining portion that can be pulled apart by the user's normal force. For example, Figure 1 Alternatively, the sheet thickness may be reduced, or other methods may be employed to weaken the boundary between the pair of ear members 20, 20 or to facilitate the application of stress, thereby forming the joint 28. Alternatively, the pair of ear members 20, 20 may be formed separately, slightly overlapped in the center of the transverse direction D2, and separably joined together using adhesive, heat sealing, or the like to form the joint 28.

[0034] The mask body 10 may have a multi-layer structure in which a plurality of layers are stacked. For example, it may be a three-layer structure including at least an intermediate layer that is sandwiched between an outer layer and an inner layer to enhance the function of capturing foreign matter (dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses, etc.). The layers constituting the main body 10 may include fiber-containing layers such as non-woven fabrics, textiles, and knitted fabrics, preferably non-woven fabrics. Examples of non-woven fabrics include spunbond non-woven fabrics, water-entangled non-woven fabrics, meltblown non-woven fabrics, air-through non-woven fabrics, and point-bonded non-woven fabrics. In addition, it is preferred to use meltblown non-woven fabrics that can include finer fibers in the intermediate layer. In addition, it is preferred that the fibers constituting the fiber-containing layer are resin fibers, and examples of the resin types of the resin fibers include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, nylon, etc. The weight per unit area of ​​the outer layer and the inner layer is 10 to 50 g / m 2 , preferably 15 to 50 g / m 2 The weight per unit area of ​​the intermediate layer with high foreign matter capture performance is preferably 10 to 100 g / m 2 , more preferably 15 to 50 g / m 2 .

[0035] The earpiece 20 can be made of a stretchable material, preferably a material with greater stretchability than the main body 10. Furthermore, the earpiece 20 can be stretchable at least in the transverse direction D2, or it can be stretchable in both the longitudinal direction D1 and the transverse direction D2. The stretchability in the longitudinal direction D1 and the transverse direction D2 can be the same or different. If the stretchability in the longitudinal direction D1 and the transverse direction D2 are different, the stretchability in the transverse direction D2 is preferably greater than that of the main body 10. When worn, the earpiece 20 is attached to the wearer's ear and is primarily stretched in the transverse direction D2. Therefore, by having stretchability at least in the transverse direction D2, the main body 10 can be better secured in position on the front of the face and the burden placed on the ear by the earpiece 20 can be reduced.

[0036] The ear member 20 may include a stretchable fiber-containing sheet and / or a stretchable or elastic film. Examples of the fiber-containing sheet include nonwoven fabrics, textiles, and knitted fabrics. Nonwoven fabrics are preferred due to their comfortable feel and breathability. Examples of nonwoven fabrics include air-through nonwoven fabrics, spunbond nonwoven fabrics, hydroentangled nonwoven fabrics, needle-punched nonwoven fabrics, and chemically bonded nonwoven fabrics. The fibers contained in the nonwoven fabric are preferably resin fibers. Examples of the resin used in the resin fibers include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and nylon.

[0037] The ear pieces 20 may be composed of a single layer of the aforementioned stretchable fiber-containing sheet or stretch film, or they may be formed by laminating multiple layers of the aforementioned stretchable fiber-containing sheet and / or stretch film, for example, by laminating a fiber-containing sheet and a stretch film. If the fiber-containing sheet is stretchable, this stretchability can be achieved by including stretchable fibers, for example, by the fiber material itself being stretchable, or by the fibers being crimped fibers. Alternatively, stretchability can be achieved through a predetermined physical structure, such as surface irregularities. Furthermore, the ear pieces 20 may be formed by sandwiching a rubber string between a stretchable or non-stretchable fiber-containing sheet. If the fiber-containing sheet is less stretchable or non-stretchable, the fiber-containing sheet can be worn from both sides with the rubber string stretched.

[0038] More specifically, the ear parts 20 may use a single-layer nonwoven fabric such as a stretchable hot air nonwoven fabric, a stretchable spunbond nonwoven fabric, a stretchable water-entangled nonwoven fabric, a stretchable needle-punched nonwoven fabric, or a stretchable chemically bonded nonwoven fabric. Alternatively, a nonwoven fabric composed of multiple layers of nonwoven fabrics such as spunbond / meltblown / spunbond may be used. Furthermore, laminated sheets such as nonwoven fabric / stretch film, nonwoven fabric / stretch film / nonwoven fabric (e.g., spunbond / stretch film / spunbond, hot air / stretch film / hot air, etc.) may be used. When the ear parts 20 are formed of multiple layers, the layers may be bonded to each other using a stretchable or non-stretchable hot-melt nonwoven fabric (a nonwoven fabric whose fibers can be bonded to other parts by being softened or melted by heat). The weight per unit area of ​​the ear parts 20 may be 20 to 150 g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the ear member 20 may be 100 to 3,000 μm.

[0039] The pair of ear pieces 20, 20 are each joined to the side portions (ends in the transverse direction D2) of the outer surface of the main body 10. More specifically, the ear pieces 20, 20 are joined to the two sides of the main body 10 via auxiliary materials 30, 30 (the auxiliary materials will be described in detail later). That is, the outer portions of the ear pieces 20, 20 in the transverse direction D2 are joined to the main body 10, while the remaining portions are not joined to the main body 10. When starting to use the mask 100 of this embodiment, before wearing the mask 100, the releasable connection between the ear pieces 20, 20 is released, separating the ear pieces 20, 20 from each other (also referred to as a separation operation), and the portions of the ear pieces 20, 20 not joined to the main body 10 are opened laterally in the transverse direction D2 (also referred to as an expansion operation). This separation / expansion operation and the components associated with it are described in detail below.

[0040] (Ear piece separation / expansion action)

[0041] Figure 3 Shows that it is about to start Figure 1FIG shows a state of use of the mask 100. In addition, Figure 4 Shown Figure 3 At the beginning of use, the user can Figure 3 As shown, pinch or hold the pair of ear parts 20, 20 by hand and pull them in opposite directions. This will first release the connection of the separable joint 28. If the joint 28 is composed of a needle hole formed along the boundary line between the pair of ear parts 20, 20, the needle hole can be broken to separate the two ear parts 20, 20 along the boundary line. After that, the user can hold the pair of ear parts 20, 20 separately and then Figure 3 and Figure 4 A pair of ear parts 20, 20 are opened outward in the horizontal direction D2 in the direction indicated by the arrow.

[0042] Figure 5 Shows the self Figure 3 In the state of opening a pair of ear parts 20 and 20 outward in the horizontal direction D2, Figure 6 Shown Figure 5 The II-II line cross-sectional view. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, when the pair of ear members 20, 20 are opened, the ear members 20, 20 are turned over, and the surface facing the main body 10 before use is exposed. Moreover, they are mainly arranged outside the transverse direction D2 of the main body 10, and the entire outer surface of the main body 10 is exposed.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, after the user grasps the pair of ear pieces 20, 20 and opens them outward in the horizontal direction D2, the outer surface of the mask 100 faces the user with the ear pieces 20, 20 opened, while the inner surface (the face-facing side) of the mask 100 faces away from the user. Therefore, this embodiment of the mask 100 is suitable for being worn by other wearers. For example, while the mask 100 is placed with the outer side facing upward (with the outer surface of the main body 10 facing upward), the user grasps the pair of ear pieces 20, 20 and opens them outward in the horizontal direction D2. Then, while grasping the pair of ear pieces 20, 20, the user moves the mask 100 toward the face of another wearer. After positioning the mask main body 10 at the desired position on the wearer's face, the ear pieces 20, 20 can be placed on the wearer's ears without changing the way the mask 100 is grasped. Therefore, this embodiment of the mask 100 is suitable for use by individuals who have difficulty wearing a mask themselves, such as children and patients.

[0044] Furthermore, as described above, since the pair of ear pieces 20, 20 are disposed on the outer surface of the main body 10, the possibility of the user's hands coming into contact with the inside of the mask 100 when the ear pieces 20, 20 are opened outward in the horizontal direction D2 relative to each other can be reduced or eliminated. Therefore, the ear pieces 20, 20 can be opened hygienically in the preparation stage before wearing the mask 100.

[0045] Moreover, if Figure 3 As shown, the pair of ear parts 20, 20 may have handles 25, 25 that the user can pinch when the pair of ear parts 20, 20 are separated from each other and opened outward in the horizontal direction D2. Preferably, the handles 25, 25 protrude from the end edge of the main body 10 when viewed from above. Since the handles 25, 25 protrude from the end edge of the main body 10, the user can pinch the handles 25, 25 with both hands without touching the main body 10 itself, that is, any of the outer surface and the inner surface of the main body 10. Moreover, the user can separate / expand the pair of ear parts 20, 20 without touching or substantially touching the main body 10. Thus, even in a situation where the user cannot fully consider the hygiene of his fingers, he can wear or have others wear the mask 100 in a good hygienic state. Moreover, if the handles 25, 25 protrude from the lower end of the main body 10 (at the bottom of the main body 10) when viewed from above, Figure 3 The lower end portion in the middle is protruding, so the ear part can be separated / expanded naturally, which is preferred.

[0046] Furthermore, since the earpiece 20 has the handles 25, 25, the user can easily adjust the earpiece by gripping the handles 25, 25 when attaching the earpiece 20 to the wearer's ear or after attaching it to the ear. Specifically, by gripping the handles 25, 25, the earpiece 20 can be positioned relative to the ear in the circumferential direction of the earpiece 20 to adjust its position, or the earpiece 20 can be stretched or loosened toward the rear to adjust the tension of the earpiece 20.

[0047] The maximum length of the handle 25 protruding from the lower end of the body 10 in the longitudinal direction D1, i.e., the length in the longitudinal direction D1 from the lower end of the body 10 to the apex of the protruding portion of the handle 25, can be 5 to 15 mm. Furthermore, the length in the transverse direction D2 from the end of the mask 100 or body 10 in the transverse direction D2 to the apex of the protruding portion of the handle 25 proximal to that end can be 45 to 90% of half the total transverse direction D2 length of the mask 100 or body 10.

[0048] When the mask 100 is worn, that is, when the ear pieces 20, 20 are opened to the side and hung on the ears, the ear pieces 20, 20 are pulled toward the wearer's ears, and the parts of the ear pieces 20, 20 connected to the main body 10 are pressed toward the wearer's face. Here, in this embodiment, the pair of ear pieces 20, 20 are connected to both sides of the outer surface of the main body 10 ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 Therefore, when the mask 100 is worn, a portion of the ear member 20 is disposed outside the two side portions of the main body 10 ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 That is, because the sides of the main body 10 are positioned between the ear pieces 20 and the wearer's face, the ear pieces 20 press the sides of the main body 10 toward the face. This reduces the gap between the main body 10 and the face at the sides of the mask main body 10, improving the mask's functionality, such as blocking foreign matter and preventing the wearer's droplets from scattering. Furthermore, because the ear pieces 20 are not positioned on the inner sides (face-facing) of the main body's sides, they avoid contact with the wearer's face at the sides of the main body 10 during wear, resulting in a better wearing experience.

[0049] It should be noted that a mark 18 that can distinguish the outer surface and inner surface (front and back) of the main body 10 can be formed on the outer surface and / or inner surface of the main body 10 by embossing, printing, sewing, etc. The mark 18 can be visually recognized by the user and its form is not limited. Figure 1 As shown in the figures, the mark 18 can be words, or numbers, symbols, graphics, logos, etc.

[0050] (Supplementary Materials)

[0051] As described above, in this embodiment, a pair of ear members 20, 20 are respectively connected to both sides of the main body 10 through auxiliary materials 30, 30. The structure and function of the auxiliary materials 30, 30 are described in detail below.

[0052] Figure 7 This is an enlarged view showing a portion of the mask 100 where the auxiliary material 30 is provided. Figure 7 (a) is a partial top view, Figure 7 (b) is Figure 7 (a) III-III line cross-sectional view. Figure 8 In the figure, it is shown that Figure 7 The state shown is a view after the ear member 20 is opened outward in the horizontal direction D2. Figure 8 (a) is a partial top view, Figure 8 (b) is Figure 8 (a) IV-IV line cross-sectional view. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 In the example of , the main body 10, the ear component 20, and the auxiliary material 30 are stacked in this order. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 In the figure, the pleat structure 15 of the mask body 10 is omitted ( Figure 1 ) icon.

[0053] The auxiliary material 30 is provided between the main body 10 and the ear member 20, and is configured to indirectly bond the main body 10 and the ear member 20. More specifically, the main body 10 and the auxiliary material 30 are bonded at a first bonding portion B1, and the ear member 20 and the auxiliary material 30 are bonded at a second bonding portion B2, without the main body 10 and the ear member 20 being directly bonded. The first bonding portion B1 and the second bonding portion B2 can be formed, for example, by applying pressure and / or heat to bond the opposing surfaces of the components, such as heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, or non-heated embossing. Heat sealing is preferred for reliable bonding.

[0054] As described above, the main body 10 functions to block the intrusion of foreign matter and prevent the scattering of droplets generated by the wearer. Meanwhile, the ear pieces 20 function to hook onto the wearer's ears and secure the main body 10 when worn. Therefore, the main body 10 and ear pieces 20 are typically formed from different materials, preferably with the ear pieces 20 being made of a relatively stretchable material. Consequently, in conventional configurations where the main body 10 and ear pieces 20 are directly joined, if a force is applied to the mask 100, such as due to the ear pieces 20 stretching, the main body 10 may be unable to follow the expansion of the ear pieces 20, resulting in a loss of bond and the possibility of the two becoming detached.

[0055] In contrast, this method allows for the formation of separate first joints B1, which serve as the joint between the main body 10 and the auxiliary material 30, and second joints B2, which serve as the joint between the ear piece 20 and the auxiliary material 30. Specifically, by including the first joint B1 and the second joint B2, the joint forces are dispersed, making it difficult for the ear piece 20 to separate. Furthermore, each joint can be formed to suit the characteristics of the two components to be directly joined. Furthermore, the material for the auxiliary material 30 can be selected to optimize both its joint with the main body 10 and its joint with the ear piece 20. This makes the indirect joint between the main body 10 and the ear piece 20 difficult to break, resulting in a mask that is resistant to damage even under applied force.

[0056] As described above, before wearing the mask 100 of this embodiment, the ear pieces 20, 20 are separated and opened laterally by pinching and pulling the handles 25, 25 provided on each ear piece 20, 20. This separation / expansion of the ear pieces 20, 20 can damage the mask 100, depending on the configuration of the joint 28 of the ear pieces 20, 20, the user's method of separating the ear pieces 20, 20, and other factors. For example, if the ear pieces 20, 20 are difficult to separate at the joint 28, there is a risk that the user may use excessive force to pull the ear pieces 20, 20 open, applying a large force to the joint between the ear pieces 20 and the main body 10, causing the ear pieces 20 to peel off. However, with this embodiment, even during the separation / expansion of the ear pieces 20, 20 at the start of use, they are unlikely to peel off from the main body 10, allowing wearers to begin wearing the mask in good condition.

[0057] In addition, according to this method, there is no need to use a large amount of adhesive to firmly join the main body 10 and the ear part 20, or to use an adhesive that becomes excessively hard after curing. Therefore, the functions of each component are not hindered, the softness of the mask can be maintained, and a mask with good wearing feel and ease of use can be obtained.

[0058] The auxiliary material 30 can be formed from a material that has no or little stretchability, but is preferably formed from a material that has a certain degree of stretchability. Alternatively, the auxiliary material 30 can be formed from a material that can irreversibly deform in shape when a force is applied. The auxiliary material 30 can comprise the same type of stretchable nonwoven fabric as the ear member 20, but the stretchability of the auxiliary material 30 is preferably less than that of the ear member 20, at least in the transverse direction D2. Furthermore, the stretchability of the auxiliary material 30 is preferably greater than that of the main body 10, at least in the transverse direction D2.

[0059] By providing the stretchable auxiliary material 30, even when the ear component 20 is stretched, the difference between the elongation of the main body 10 and the elongation of the auxiliary material 30, and the difference between the elongation of the ear component 20 and the elongation of the auxiliary material 30 can be suppressed respectively. The auxiliary material 30 can act as a so-called buffer material between the main body 10 and the ear component 20. Therefore, the first joint B1 between the main body 10 and the auxiliary material 30, and the second joint B2 between the ear component 20 and the auxiliary material 30 are difficult to be damaged. As a result, the indirect connection between the main body 10 and the ear component 20 is difficult to be damaged. It should be noted that the unit area weight of the auxiliary material 30 can be 5 to 100 g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the auxiliary material 30 may be 100 to 1,000 μm.

[0060] like Figure 7As shown in (a), the auxiliary material 30 can be a sheet-like component extending along the longitudinal direction D1 of the mask 100. Preferably, the length of the auxiliary material 30 in the longitudinal direction D1 is the same as the length of the longitudinal direction D1 of the mask 100 (the length of the longitudinal direction D1 of the main body 10), but it can also be shorter than the length of the longitudinal direction D1 of the mask 100. In addition, on one side (either left or right side) of the transverse direction D2 of the mask 100, the outer end 31 of the transverse direction D2 of the auxiliary material 30 can be located inward of the transverse direction D2 relative to the outer end 11 of the transverse direction D2 of the main body 10, or it can be located outward of the transverse direction D2 relative to the outer end 11 of the transverse direction D2 of the main body 10, preferably as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown in (a), it is located at a position aligned with the outer end 11 of the transverse direction D2 of the main body 10.

[0061] The length (width) W of the auxiliary material 30 in the transverse direction D2 varies depending on the overall size and configuration of the mask 100, as well as the size, shape, and material of the main body 10 and ear pieces 20, but is preferably between 15 and 35 mm. Setting the length of the transverse direction D2 within this range ensures sufficient area for both the first and second joints B1 and B2, while also ensuring that the auxiliary material 30 does not interfere with the initial separation / deployment process and / or wearing, nor does it interfere with the function of the main body 10 and ear pieces 20.

[0062] It should be noted that, if Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the width W of the auxiliary material 30 can be set so that the auxiliary material 30 overlaps with the opening 29 of the ear member 20. However, the width W of the auxiliary material 30 can also be set so that the auxiliary material 30 does not overlap with the opening 29 of the ear member 20.

[0063] like Figure 7 As shown in (a) and (b) of FIG, the auxiliary material 30 is arranged on the outer surface side of the main body 10. Therefore, even when the mask 100 is worn, the auxiliary material 30 itself is less likely to come into contact with the wearer's face, and does not hinder the good wearing feeling of the mask 100 of this embodiment.

[0064] Furthermore, as described above, the ear pieces 20 in this embodiment can function by pressing the sides of the main body 10 toward the wearer's face. The auxiliary material 30 laminated on the outer surface of the main body 10 is also at least partially integrated with the ear pieces 20, thereby functioning to press the main body 10 toward the face. This allows the gap between the sides of the main body 10 and the face to be further reduced, thereby enhancing the functionality of the mask 100.

[0065] In the state before the mask 100 starts to be used, Figure 7As shown in (a) and (b), the first joint B1, which is the joint between the main body 10 and the auxiliary material 30, is located further outward in the transverse direction D2 than the second joint B2, which is the joint between the ear member 20 and the auxiliary material 30. Therefore, when the ear member 20 is opened outward in the transverse direction D2 at the beginning of use, a portion of the auxiliary material 30 (outward in the transverse direction D2) remains fixed to the main body 10 due to the presence of the first joint B1, but the inner side of the auxiliary material 30 in the transverse direction D2 is opened outward (laterally) in the transverse direction D2 together with the ear member 20 due to the second joint B2 ( Figure 8 That is, the auxiliary material 30 is bent in the transverse direction D2 at a line along the longitudinal direction D1.

[0066] In the bent auxiliary material 30, a restoring force (a force that attempts to return from the bent state to the state before the bending) is generated according to the characteristics of the material constituting the auxiliary material 30. As described above, when worn, the earpiece 20 and at least a portion of the auxiliary material 30 act to press the two sides of the main body 10 toward the face. This action of pressing the two sides of the main body 10 can be enhanced by the bending of the auxiliary material 30. Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, in the example where the auxiliary material 30 is positioned on the outer surface of the ear piece 20 and thus on the outermost surface of the mask 100, when the ear piece 20 is opened outward in the horizontal direction D2, the auxiliary material 30 is positioned on the inner side (face side) of the ear piece 20. This further enhances the function of pressing the sides of the main body 10 toward the face. Consequently, the effect of narrowing the gap between the mask body and the face is further enhanced.

[0067] When the auxiliary material 30 is bent when the ear piece 20 is extended, the auxiliary material 30 preferably has a high bending resilience (strength of the rebound force when bent). For example, the bending resilience may be greater than that of the ear piece 20. This increases the restoring force of the bent auxiliary material 30, further enhancing the effect of the auxiliary material 30 pressing the main body 10 inward (toward the face).

[0068] Before use ( Figure 7In (a) and (b), on one side (either left or right) of the mask 100 in the transverse direction D2, the outer end 21 of the ear piece 20 in the transverse direction D2 is located further inward in the transverse direction D2 than the outer end 11 of the main body 10 in the transverse direction D2. In other words, the ear piece 20 is offset inward in the transverse direction D2 relative to the main body 10. Therefore, by sequentially stacking the main body 10, ear piece 20, and auxiliary material 30, the portion where the auxiliary material 30 can directly contact the main body 10 and the portion where the auxiliary material 30 can directly contact the ear piece 20 can be easily formed without requiring steps such as folding. Consequently, the first joint B1 between the main body 10 and the auxiliary material 30 and the second joint B2 between the ear piece 20 and the auxiliary material 30 can be formed without requiring complex structures and processes. For example, a combination is prepared by placing the auxiliary material 30 on the ear member 20 so that the outer end 21 of the ear member 20 in the transverse direction D2 is located inward of the outer end 31 of the auxiliary material 30 in the transverse direction D2, and joining the ear member 20 and the auxiliary material 30 via the second joint B2. Furthermore, this combination is placed on the main body 10 so that the outer end 21 of the ear member 20 in the transverse direction D2 is located inward of the outer end 11 of the main body 10 in the transverse direction D2. This allows a portion near the outer end 11 of the main body 10 in the transverse direction D2 to be in direct contact with the auxiliary material 30, and allows the first joint B1 to be formed when the combination overlaps with the main body 10.

[0069] It is preferable that the first joining portion B1 is formed throughout the longitudinal direction D1. The length (width) w1 of the first joining portion B1 in the transverse direction D2 is ( Figure 7 (a)) can be set to 3 to 10 mm. Figure 7 In the illustrated example, the width w1 of the first joint B1 is constant throughout the longitudinal direction D1. However, width w1 does not necessarily need to be constant and may vary depending on the location. Setting width w1 within this range ensures a reliable joint between the main body 10 and the auxiliary material 30, while also preventing the overall flexibility of the mask 100 from being compromised by a stiffening of the first joint B1. Furthermore, discomfort caused by contact between the first joint B1 and the face can be reduced.

[0070] The second joining portion B2 is preferably formed over the longitudinal direction D1. The length (width) w2 of the second joining portion B2 in the transverse direction D2 ( Figure 7 (a)) can be set to 3 to 10 mm. Figure 7 In the illustrated example, the width w2 of the first joint B1 is constant throughout the longitudinal direction D1. However, this width w2 is not necessarily constant and may vary depending on the location. By setting the width w2 within the above range, a reliable joint is achieved between the ear member 20 and the auxiliary material 30, while preventing the overall flexibility of the mask 100 from being compromised by the hardening of the second joint B2.

[0071] It is preferred that the first bonding portion B1 and the second bonding portion B2 are separated. The distance w0 between the first bonding portion B1 and the second bonding portion B2 is ( Figure 7 (a)) can be 3 to 13 mm. Furthermore, the distance w0 is preferably greater than the width w1 of the first joint B1. Setting the distance w0 to this value facilitates the flipping of the ear piece 20 and the bending of the auxiliary material 30 when unfolding the ear piece 20, while also preventing the flexibility of the two sides of the mask 100 from being compromised.

[0072] When unfolding the ear member 20, the ear member 20 and the auxiliary material 30 are rotated and bent, with the ear member 20 and the auxiliary material 30 located near the inner end of the first joint B1 in the transverse direction D2 as the base point. Therefore, it is desirable to maintain a certain distance s between the inner end of the first joint B1 in the transverse direction D2 and the outer end 21 of the ear member 20 in the transverse direction D2. Furthermore, by limiting distance s to a minimum, the length of the ear member 20 in the transverse direction D2 can be prevented from being shortened. Distance s can be 1 to 10 mm.

[0073] When the first and second joining portions B1 and B2 are formed by heat sealing, the welded portions formed by heat sealing may be continuous or discontinuous in the longitudinal direction D1 and / or transverse direction D2. If discontinuous, multiple welded portions may be arranged throughout the entire joining portion. Discontinuously arranging welded portions ensures a certain degree of flexibility in the joining portion and enables a reliable joint.

[0074] exist Figure 9 In (a) and (b), the Figure 7 The enlarged view of part V and part VI in (a). Figure 9 As shown in (a), the first joint B1 includes multiple discontinuous welded sections in both the longitudinal direction D1 and the transverse direction D2. More specifically, the square welded sections are spaced apart at predetermined distances in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. By having discontinuous welded sections in both the longitudinal direction D1 and the transverse direction D2 of the joint, a reliable joint is achieved, and a highly flexible joint is obtained throughout the entire first joint B1.

[0075] On the other hand, Figure 9As shown in (b), the second joint B2 includes multiple welded portions that are discontinuous in the longitudinal direction D1. In the illustrated example, the welded portions included in the second joint B2 have a strip (or linear) shape extending in the transverse direction D2, more specifically, a rectangular shape. Because the ear component 20 is stretched during wear, the second joint B2 (the ear component 20 and the auxiliary material 30 joined at the second joint B2) is particularly susceptible to stress in the transverse direction D2. Therefore, by forming the welded portions included in the second joint B2 into a continuous strip shape in the transverse direction D2, it is possible to effectively prevent the ear component 20 from peeling when stretched in the transverse direction D2. It should be noted that the shape of the welded portions of the joint is not limited to the illustrated shape, as long as it can form a joint that maintains sufficient strength. The welded portions can be formed in a shape that is narrower than their length, that is, in a linear shape (straight or curved), or in a dotted shape (a shape that can be visually recognized as a dot). In addition, more specifically, the plan view shape of each welded portion can be any shape such as a rectangle, a quadrilateral such as a rhombus, a polygon other than a quadrilateral, a circle, an ellipse, etc.

[0076] It should be noted that in the example described above, the auxiliary material 30 used to connect the main body 10 and the ear pieces 20 is arranged as a single layer on the outermost side of the mask 100. However, the arrangement of the auxiliary material 30 is not limited to the example shown. Furthermore, the auxiliary material 30 can be folded before use to form a two-layer structure.

[0077] Figure 10 A modified example of the mask 100 of this embodiment is shown. Figure 10 is with Figure 7 The corresponding figure shows an enlarged view of the portion of the mask 100 where the auxiliary material 30 is provided. Figure 10 (a) is a partial top view, Figure 10 (b) shows Figure 10 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII. Figure 11 Shows the self Figure 10 The state shown is a view after the ear member 20 is opened outward in the horizontal direction D2. Figure 11 (a) is a partial top view, Figure 11 (b) is Figure 11 (a) VIII-VIII line cross-sectional view. Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 In the modified example shown, the auxiliary material 30 is arranged on the outside of the ear member 20. The basic structure other than that is the same as that of the reference Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 The same description is performed and the same action / effect can be obtained.

[0078] exist Figure 10In the examples (a) and (b), when viewing both sides of the mask 100 (the ends in the transverse direction D2) from the outside, the ear pieces 20 are positioned at the outermost sides, and the auxiliary material 30 is exposed outward from the outer ends 21 of the ear pieces 20 in the transverse direction D2. Therefore, when the ear pieces 20 are unfolded outward in the transverse direction D2 at the beginning of use, the folded auxiliary material 30 is positioned at the outermost sides of the main body 10, and the outer ends 21 of the ear pieces 20 are covered by the auxiliary material 30. Therefore, when the mask is worn, the outer ends 21 of the ear pieces 20 are not exposed and are protected.

[0079] The specific embodiments of the present invention are described below.

[0080] (Note 1)

[0081] The method of Note 1 is a mask, comprising: a mask body; a pair of ear components, which are combined with the above-mentioned mask body; and auxiliary materials, which are arranged on the outer surface side of the above-mentioned mask body. Before use, the pair of ear components are combined with each other in a separable manner and are arranged on the outer surface side of the above-mentioned mask body. The outline of the ear components has a wavy shape, and the pair of ear components are respectively combined with the outer surface of the side of the above-mentioned mask body through the above-mentioned auxiliary materials.

[0082] According to the method described in Note 1 above, since the pair of ear pieces are separately bonded to the mask body via auxiliary material, the mask can be constructed without directly bonding the ear pieces to the mask body. Consequently, the joints between the mask body and the auxiliary material, and between the ear pieces and the auxiliary material, can be formed separately. In other words, each joint can be formed using a material suitable for the two components to be directly bonded. This ensures that the functionality and fit of the components are not compromised. Even if the ear pieces are stretched during wear, a durable bond is indirectly formed between the ear pieces and the mask body, resulting in a sturdy mask with a comfortable fit.

[0083] In this embodiment, the ear pieces are detachably connected. At the start of use, they can be separated and opened laterally. During this separation / expansion, depending on the connection between the ear pieces and / or the method used by the user to separate them, the ear pieces could be stretched excessively, potentially damaging the mask. In contrast, in this embodiment, the ear pieces are not directly connected to the mask body but, as described above, are joined via auxiliary material. This results in a mask that is less susceptible to damage even when the ear pieces are separated at the start of use.

[0084] Furthermore, when the mask is worn, that is, when the ear pieces are folded sideways and placed around the ears, the ear pieces are pulled toward the wearer's ears, and this exerts a force on the joints between the ear pieces and the mask body, pressing against the wearer's face. In this embodiment, since the pair of ear pieces are joined to the outer surface of the mask body, the two sides of the mask body are positioned inward (on the wearer's face side) of the ear pieces when worn. Consequently, the ear pieces press the two sides of the mask body toward the face. This reduces the gap between the mask body and the face in the two sides of the mask body, thereby improving the mask's functionality, such as blocking foreign matter and preventing the wearer's droplets from scattering. Furthermore, since the ear pieces are not positioned inward (on the face side) of the two sides of the mask body, the ear pieces do not come into contact with the wearer's face at these sides, resulting in a more comfortable fit.

[0085] (Note 2)

[0086] In the embodiment of Note 2, the mask has a longitudinal direction corresponding to the up-down direction of the wearer's face and a lateral direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, and at least the lateral stretchability of the auxiliary material is higher than the lateral stretchability of the mask body and lower than the lateral stretchability of the ear parts.

[0087] Earpieces are parts that attach to the wearer's ears during use and are often made of a material with a higher elasticity than the mask body. Therefore, if the earpieces are directly bonded to the mask body, the mask body struggles to follow the earpiece's expansion and contraction. Depending on the difference in elasticity between the earpiece and the mask body and / or the degree to which the earpieces expand and contract during use, there is a risk of the earpieces separating from the mask body. In contrast, according to the embodiment of Note 2 above, the auxiliary material uses a material with an elasticity intermediate between the elasticity of the mask body and the earpiece, at least in the lateral direction. Even when the elasticity of the earpiece differs significantly from that of the mask body, the auxiliary material mitigates the difference in elasticity, thereby reducing the likelihood of the earpieces separating from the mask body.

[0088] (Note 3)

[0089] In the method of Note 3, the above-mentioned main body and the above-mentioned auxiliary material are joined at a first joint portion, and the above-mentioned ear component and the above-mentioned auxiliary material are joined at a second joint portion. In a state before use, the above-mentioned second joint portion is located laterally inward of the above-mentioned first joint portion and separated from the above-mentioned first joint portion.

[0090] According to the method described in Note 3 above, before use begins, that is, when the ear pieces are not separated or opened, the first joint, which serves as the joint between the main body and the auxiliary material, is formed laterally outward, and the second joint, which serves as the joint between the ear pieces and the auxiliary material, is formed laterally inward of the first joint. Therefore, when the ear pieces are opened laterally (laterally outward) at the start of use, while the laterally outer portion of the auxiliary material is secured to the main body via the first joint, the laterally inner portion of the auxiliary material is opened along with the ear pieces, causing the auxiliary material to bend laterally. This bending generates a restoring force (a force that attempts to return from the bent state to the pre-bend state) in the auxiliary material, depending on the properties of the material constituting the auxiliary material. Therefore, when the mask is worn, this restoring force of the auxiliary material acts from the outer surface of the mask toward the inner surface (the face side), thereby effectively reducing the gap between the two sides of the mask main body and the face.

[0091] (Note 4)

[0092] In the embodiment of Supplementary Note 4, the auxiliary material is arranged on the outer surface side of the ear member.

[0093] According to the method described in Note 4 above, since the auxiliary material is placed on the outer surface of the ear pieces, when the ear pieces are opened when the mask is worn, the ear pieces are placed on the outermost sides, and the auxiliary material is placed inward of the ear pieces. Therefore, when the ear pieces are pulled by the ears, the ear pieces act to press the auxiliary material and the mask body toward the face at the sides of the mask. This further enhances the effect of reducing the gap between the mask body and the face at the two sides (lateral end regions) of the mask body.

[0094] (Note 5)

[0095] In the embodiment of Note 5, the transverse outer end of the ear member is located inward of the transverse outer end of the mask body.

[0096] According to the method described in Note 5 above, since the transverse outer ends of the ear pieces are offset from the transverse outer ends of the mask body, by stacking the mask body and ear pieces in order from the inner surface to the outer surface of the mask, and then stacking the auxiliary material so that it covers both the mask body and the ear pieces, the auxiliary material can be brought into surface contact with the mask body and the ear pieces. Therefore, the joints (first joint) between the mask body and the auxiliary material, as well as the joints (second joint) between the ear pieces and the auxiliary material, can be easily formed with a simple structure that does not bend or fold the auxiliary material and / or ear pieces.

[0097] (Note 6)

[0098] In the embodiment of Note 6, each of the pair of ear members is provided with a handle portion protruding from the end edge of the mask body in a plan view, and at the start of use, the pair of ear members can be separated from each other by pinching the handle portion and stretching it.

[0099] When using this mask, the user grasps and pulls the handles with each hand, separating the connected ear pieces and allowing each ear piece to open laterally. According to the embodiment of Note 6 above, since the handles provided on each pair of ear pieces protrude from the edge of the mask body, the user's fingers are less likely to come into contact with the mask body when grasping the handles. Therefore, the user can separate and laterally open the ear pieces while maintaining the hygiene of the mask.

[0100] This application claims the benefit of priority from basic application No. 2020-094370, filed in the Japan Patent Office on May 29, 2020, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0101] Description of Reference Numerals

[0102] 10 Mask body

[0103] 11 The lateral outer end of the mask body

[0104] 15-pleat construction

[0105] 20 ear parts

[0106] 21 Lateral outer end of ear member

[0107] 25. Pinch the hand

[0108] 28 Separable joint

[0109] 29 Opening

[0110] 30 Supplementary Materials

[0111] 31 Transverse outer end of auxiliary material

[0112] 100 masks

[0113] B1 First joint

[0114] B2 Second joint

[0115] w1 Width of the first joint

[0116] w2 Width of the second joint

[0117] w0 Distance between the first joint and the second joint

[0118] W Width of auxiliary material

[0119] s Distance between the transverse inner end of the first joint and the transverse outer end of the ear member

Claims

1. A mask comprising: The main body of the mask; and A pair of ear components, which are respectively combined with the lateral ends of the outer surface of the mask body through auxiliary materials and are combined in a separable manner. Before use, the ear components and the auxiliary material are sequentially arranged on the outer surface of the mask body in an overlapping manner without being folded back. The mask body and the auxiliary material are joined at a first joint portion, and the ear components and the auxiliary material are joined at a second joint portion. When viewed from above, the second joint portion is located laterally inward of the first joint portion and separated from the first joint portion. At least a portion of the outline of the ear member has a wave shape or is formed with projections and depressions.

2. The mask according to claim 1, wherein: The mask has a longitudinal direction corresponding to the up-down direction of the wearer's face and a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. At least the auxiliary material has a transverse stretchability higher than that of the mask body and lower than that of the ear member.

3. The mask according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The transverse outer end of the ear member is located inward of the transverse outer end of the mask body.

4. The mask according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pair of ear components are respectively provided with a handle portion protruding from the end edge of the mask body when viewed from above. At the beginning of use, the pair of ear components can be separated from each other by pinching the handle portion and stretching it.

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