Mask and method of manufacturing a mask

Abstract

A mask includes: a mask body; and a pair of ear hook portions coupled to both ends in a left-right direction of the mask body, respectively, the pair of ear hook portions being formed in a single sheet and being overlapped on the mask body in a state before use without protruding from the mask body in the left-right direction, the ear hook portions having: an elastic member; and a surface material coupled to at least one surface of the elastic member in a state in which the elastic member is elongated by a predetermined ratio from a natural length, the ear hook portions having a high-elongation portion that is easily elongated in the left-right direction and a low-elongation portion that is difficult to elongate in the left-right direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a mask and a manufacturing method of a mask. BACKGROUND

[0002] As a configuration of a mask to be worn on a face, a mask including a mask body covering at least a part of a face of a wearer and a pair of ear-hanging materials, i.e., components to be hung on each ear of the wearer in order to hold the mask body in a wearing position thereof, which are combined with the mask body, is known.

[0003] In the past, the ear-hanging portion for the mask has been mostly in a rope shape. However, in recent years, in order to reduce a burden imposed on the ears, a sheet-shaped ear-hanging portion is being studied. For example, the mask disclosed in Patent Literature 1 includes an ear-hanging portion having a joint portion and a ring-shaped portion which are formed in an integrated shape from a single sheet-shaped nonwoven fabric, and the joint portion is joined at an end portion region of the mask body portion. In addition, in Patent Literature 1, as a material of the ear-hanging portion, a stretch-bonded nonwoven fabric or the like is disclosed.

[0004] The single sheet-shaped ear-hanging portion (ear-hanging portion sheet) disclosed in Patent Literature 1 is overlapped on the mask body in a state before use, and at the start of use, is separated from each other at the center in the left-right direction and is opened to the outside in the left-right direction to be used. In the mask of this type, from the viewpoint of making the handling at the time of continuous production easy, the single sheet-shaped ear-hanging portion has a size which can be accommodated at least in the left-right direction within the size in the plan view of the mask body.

[0005] (PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS)

[0006] (PATENT LITERATURE)

[0007] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent No. 5762802 SUMMARY

[0008] (PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION)

[0009] In recent years, masks of various sizes have been manufactured depending on the purpose and / or the size of the face of the user. For example, in addition to a mask of a normal size, a mask of a smaller size is manufactured for women or children. In the mask of a smaller size, since the size of the mask body is small, the size of the sheet-shaped ear-hanging portion to be arranged overlapping the mask body also needs to be set to be small.

[0010] However, when designing smaller, flat ear loops, simply scaling down the shape of the ear loops of a standard-sized mask according to the overall reduction ratio of the mask body sometimes fails to achieve a good wearing experience. For example, when the ear loops are scaled down according to the reduction ratio of the mask body, the width of the ear loops becomes smaller, potentially compromising the fit to the ears. On the other hand, if the width of the ear loops is not changed to maintain a comfortable fit, the length of the portion of the ear loop that provides the greatest support for lateral extension becomes shorter, making it difficult for the ear loops to extend laterally. Therefore, users may experience discomfort while wearing the mask, and discomfort may also arise during the wearing process. Therefore, it is necessary to research the design of ear loops in order to provide masks of various sizes with excellent wearing comfort.

[0011] In view of the above, one objective of the present invention is to provide a mask of various sizes with excellent wearing comfort.

[0012] (Methods used to solve problems)

[0013] One aspect of the present invention is a face mask, comprising: a face mask body; and a pair of ear loops respectively attached to the left and right ends of the face mask body, the pair of ear loops being formed as a single piece and, in a state before use, not extending from the face mask body in the left and right directions but overlapping the face mask body, the ear loops having: an elastic member; and a surface material, which is attached to at least one surface of the elastic member when the elastic member is elongated from its natural length by a predetermined ratio, the ear loops having a high elongation portion that is easy to elongate in the left and right directions and a low elongation portion that is difficult to elongate in the left and right directions.

[0014] (The effect of the invention)

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a mask of various sizes with excellent wearing comfort. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a top view of a mask according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the outside.

[0017] Figure 2 It is self Figure 1 A top view of the inside (face side) of the mask shown.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Sectional view along line II.

[0019] Figure 4 It is used for explanation Figure 1The illustration showing an example of how to use a face mask is a top view of the ear loops opened to the sides.

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Sectional view along line II-II.

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged view of section III, and diagram illustrating the structure of the ear loop.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for manufacturing ear loops for face masks, and an apparatus for manufacturing face masks, according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 8 It is for passing Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the manufacturing of a face mask using the apparatus shown.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a top view of masks of different sizes.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a top view of a smaller-sized face mask (shown again) Figure 9 (The lower part of the mask).

[0026] Figure 11 This is a graph illustrating the evaluation results of an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals are sometimes used for the same or corresponding components in the drawings, and descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, the drawings are schematic diagrams to aid in understanding the invention.

[0028] (Basic components of a face mask)

[0029] One aspect of the present invention is a mask capable of covering the wearer's face, and more specifically, covering at least the wearer's nose and mouth. This type of mask may have the function of preventing foreign objects from reaching the face or preventing the dissipation of droplets generated by the wearer; it is also referred to as a sanitary mask or a surgical mask. The mask may be disposable or reusable after washing.

[0030] Figure 1 A top view of the mask 1 of this method is shown. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the mask 1 viewed from the outside (or outer surface side), that is, the side exposed to the outside when worn and not facing the face. Additionally, Figure 2 This shows a top view of the mask viewed from the inside (face side). Figure 3 It shows Figure 1Sectional view along line II.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the mask 1 of this method is positioned on the front of the wearer's face when worn, and includes a mask body 10 that primarily covers the wearer's nose and mouth, and a pair of ear loops 20a, 20a connected to the mask body 10. The mask body 10 has a vertical direction D1 corresponding to the vertical direction of the wearer's face when worn, and a horizontal direction D2 corresponding to the horizontal direction of the wearer's face when worn. Figure 1 In this method, the mask body 10 has a rectangular top view shape with a long side in the left-right direction D2, but the top view shape of the mask body 10 is not limited to the shape shown in the figure.

[0032] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the mask body 10 has a pleated structure 15 formed by a plurality of pleats arranged in the vertical direction D1. The pleats of the pleated structure 15 are formed by folding the sheet constituting the body 10 at the fold line along the horizontal direction D2. Furthermore, with the plurality of pleats formed, the two sides of the mask body 10 (the two ends in the horizontal direction D2) are fixed by heat sealing or the like. Therefore, when the mask 1 is used, by unfolding the pleats of the pleated structure 15 in the vertical direction D1, the center of the mask body 10 in the horizontal direction D2 bends in a manner that protrudes towards the outer surface of the mask 1, and can be deformed into a three-dimensional shape suitable for the face. The specific configuration of the pleated structure 15 is not particularly limited and can be a known configuration formed in the mask body.

[0033] The mask body 10 can have a multi-layered structure composed of multiple stacked layers. For example, it can be a three-layered structure that includes at least an outer layer and an inner layer sandwiching an intermediate layer to enhance the function of capturing foreign objects (dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses, etc.). Preferably, each layer constituting the body 10 can include a fiber-containing layer such as nonwoven fabric, textile, or woven fabric, and more preferably, a nonwoven fabric. Examples of nonwoven fabrics include spunbond nonwoven fabric, water-entangled nonwoven fabric, meltblown nonwoven fabric, hot-air nonwoven fabric, and dot-bonded nonwoven fabric. In addition, it is preferable to use meltblown nonwoven fabric, which can include finer fibers, in the intermediate layer. Furthermore, it is preferable that the fibers constituting the fiber-containing layer are resin fibers, and examples of resins for resin fibers include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and nylon. The unit area weight of the outer and inner layers is 10 to 50 g / m². 2 Preferably 15-50 g / m 2 The preferred intermediate layer, with a high foreign object trapping capacity, has a unit area weight of 10–100 g / m². 2 More preferably, it is 15–50 g / m 2 .

[0034] The pair of ear loops 20a, 20a can be loop-shaped (or closed band-shaped) when viewed from above, or have a shape including loops. In order to wear them, the wearer's ear enters the inside of the loop of the ear loop 20a, that is, enters the central opening 29 of the ear loop 20a, so that the ear loop 20a can be hung on the ear.

[0035] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the pair of ear loops 20a, 20a are formed as single or continuous ear loop pieces 20 that are separably joined together at the center of the left-right direction D2. Here, "single piece" means that it is composed of a single continuous piece. This single piece can be a single layer or a stack of multiple layers. Because the pair of ear loops 20a, 20a are piece-shaped, when the ear loops 20a are hung on the ears, they can contact the back of the ear or the back of the earlobe, thus reducing the burden on the ears. Therefore, even with prolonged use, discomfort can be reduced. In addition, because the pair of ear loops 20a, 20a are single pieces (composed of ear loop pieces 20), the positioning of the pair of ear loops 20a, 20a can be performed simultaneously during manufacturing, making the mask manufacturing easier.

[0036] The ear loops 20a and 20a (ear loop pieces 20) are elastic (described in detail later), allowing the user to easily stretch the ear loops 20a and 20a to the back of the ear and hook them on the ear when wearing the mask.

[0037] The ear loop piece 20 is configured to form a pair of ear loops 20a, 20a that can separate by breaking at a predetermined location. More specifically, in Figure 1 In this configuration, a pair of loop portions 20a, 20a are joined together by a connecting portion 28. The form of the connecting portion 28 is not particularly limited, but it is preferably a joint that can be separated by stretching using the user's usual force. For example, it can be as follows: Figure 1 As shown, it is formed as a pinhole. Alternatively, the joint 28 can be formed by setting the thickness of the sheet to be smaller, or by using other means to weaken or make the boundary of the pair of lugs 20a, 20a easier to apply stress.

[0038] like Figures 1-3 As shown, a pair of single-piece ear loops 20a, 20a or ear loop pieces 20 are overlapped and disposed on the mask body 10. Furthermore, the ear loop pieces 20 have a shape and size that do not protrude from the mask body 10 in at least the lateral direction D1 when viewed from above. With this configuration, complex processes such as bending the ear loop pieces 20 are not required during manufacturing; by overlapping and joining the mask body 10 and the ear loop pieces 20, continuous mask manufacturing is possible.

[0039] A pair of ear loops 20a, 20a are respectively attached to the side portion (left-right direction D2 end) of the outer surface of the main body 10. That is, the outer portion of each pair of ear loops 20a, 20a in the left-right direction D2 is attached to the main body 10, while the remaining portion is not attached to the main body 10. When starting to use the mask 1 of this method, the user releases the pair of ear loops 20a, 20a from each other before wearing the mask 1, so that the ear loops 20a, 20a are separated from each other (also called the separation action), and the portion of the ear loops 20a, 20a not attached to the main body 10 is opened to the left-right direction D2 (also called the unfolding action).

[0040] It should be noted that, such as Figure 1 as well as Figure 3 As shown, a pair of ear loops 20a, 20a can be attached to both sides of the mask body 10 via sheet-like auxiliary materials 30, 30, respectively. By using the auxiliary materials 30 to attach the ear loops 20a to the mask body 10, the mask 1 can be formed without directly attaching the ear loops 20a to the mask body 10. Therefore, the attachment of the ear loops 20a to the auxiliary materials 30 and the attachment of the mask body 10 to the auxiliary materials 30 can be formed in suitable forms respectively. In addition, it is possible to avoid using a portion of the ear loops 20a for fixing to the mask body 10. Therefore, by using the auxiliary materials 30, compared to the case where the ear loops 20a are directly attached to the mask body 10, the ear loops 20a can move more freely relative to the mask body 10, thereby allowing for more flexible setting of the position of the ear loops 20a relative to the ears when worn on the ears.

[0041] exist Figures 1-3 In the illustrated configuration, the sheet-like ear loops 20a overlap with the sheet-like auxiliary material 30 and are joined at the first joint B1. Additionally, the mask body 10 overlaps with the sheet-like auxiliary material 30 and is joined at the second joint B2. Thus, by utilizing the auxiliary material 30, a durable bond can be indirectly formed between the ear loops 20a and the mask body 10 without compromising the function or comfort of each component, thereby achieving a sturdy mask.

[0042] The auxiliary material 30 can be a sheet-like component extending vertically in the vertical direction D1 throughout the mask 1. The length (width) of the auxiliary material 30 in the horizontal direction D2 varies depending on the overall size and structure of the mask 1, and the size, shape, and material of the main body 10 and the ear loops 20a, and is preferably 15–35 mm. The weight per unit area of ​​the auxiliary material 30 can be 5–100 g / m². 2 In addition, the thickness of the auxiliary material 30 can be 100 to 1,000 μm.

[0043] The auxiliary material 30 can be formed from a material that has no stretchability or very little stretchability, or it can be formed from a material that has some degree of stretchability. For example, the auxiliary material 30 may include a stretchable nonwoven fabric. In this case, it is preferable that the auxiliary material 30 has stretchability at least in the lateral direction D2, but preferably the stretchability of the auxiliary material 30 is less than that of the loop portion 20a. It should be noted that the auxiliary material 30 can be formed from a material whose shape can be irreversibly deformed when force is applied.

[0044] The first joint B1 and the second joint B2 can be formed, for example, by means of a device that joins the opposing surfaces of the components together by applying pressure and / or heat, such as heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing, or non-heated embossing. Among these, heat sealing is preferred from the viewpoint of ensuring a reliable joint.

[0045] With the auxiliary material 30 provided, the length of the left-right direction D2 of the ear loop pieces 20 constituting the pair of ear loops 20a, 20a can be shorter than the length of the left-right direction D2 of the mask 1. This allows the outer end 21 of the left-right direction D2 of the ear loop 20a to be misaligned with the outer end 11 of the left-right direction D2 of the main body 10, thereby enabling the auxiliary material 30 to be attached near the left-right direction D2 ends of the main body 10 not covered by the ear loops 20a.

[0046] (The action of separating / unlocking the ear loops)

[0047] At the start of use, the user can pinch or hold the pair of loops 20a and 20a respectively and pull them in opposite directions. This firstly disengages the separable connecting part 28. If the connecting part 28 is formed by a needle eye along the boundary line between the pair of loops 20a and 20a, the needle eye can be broken, causing the two loops 20a and 20a to separate along the boundary line. Afterwards, the user can, while holding the pair of loops 20a and 20a respectively, [further actions may occur]. Figure 3 As shown, it opens to the left and right outwards from D2 (as indicated by the arrow).

[0048] Figure 4 It shows self Figure 1 The state is such that the pair of ear loops 20a and 20a are opened to the left and right respectively, outwards in the direction of D2. Additionally, Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 Sectional view along line II-II. (See also...) Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, if the pair of ear loops 20a and 20a are opened, the ear loops 20a and 20a will flip over, that is, the side of the ear loops 20a and 20a that is opposite to the main body 10 in the state before use will be exposed.

[0049] After the user holds the pair of ear loops 20a and 20a respectively and opens them outward in the left and right directions (D2), the mask body 10 is placed on the wearer's face with the face side of the mask body 10 facing the wearer's face, and the ear loops 20a and 20a are hooked onto the wearer's ears respectively.

[0050] The state before use ( Figures 1-3 In this configuration, a pair of single-piece ear loops 20a, 20a (ear loop pieces 20) are overlapped on the mask body 10. The ear loops 20a, 20a can overlap on any side of the mask body 10, but as shown in the diagram, they are preferably overlapped on the outer surface of the mask body 10. Therefore, when wearing the mask 1, contact with the inner surface (face side) of the mask body 10 can be reduced or essentially eliminated.

[0051] For example, when a user is wearing mask 1, the mask 1 is placed on their face with the inner surface of the mask body 10 facing their face. While pressing the outer surface of the mask body 10 with one hand, the user uses the other hand to unfasten the ear loops 20a at the joint 28 and hooks one ear loop 20a onto their ear. Then, by replacing the hand pressing the mask body 10 with the other hand, the user can hook the other ear loop 20a onto their ear with one hand.

[0052] Furthermore, with the outer side of the mask 1 facing vertically upwards (the outer surface of the main body 10 facing upwards), the user holds the pair of ear loops 20a and 20a and opens them outwards in the left and right directions (D2). Then, while still holding the pair of ear loops 20a and 20a, the mask 1 is moved towards another wearer's face, and the main body 10 is positioned at the desired location on the wearer's face. Without changing the holding method, the pair of ear loops 20a and 20a can be hooked onto the wearer's ears. Therefore, the mask 1 of this method is suitable for situations where people, such as children or patients, have difficulty putting on masks themselves.

[0053] It should be noted that, within the main body 10, markings 18 that distinguish the front and back (outer and inner surfaces) of the main body 10 can be formed through embossing, printing, sewing, etc. These markings 18 need only be visually identifiable by the user, and the method of creation is not limited. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, imprint 18 can be text, numbers, symbols, graphics, signs, etc. If imprint 18 is text, the user can identify the side where the text can be read correctly as the outer surface.

[0054] (The material of the ear loops and the ear loop pieces)

[0055] The ear loop 20a or ear loop piece 20 of this method has stretchability or elasticity as described above. Figure 6 (a) shows Figure 5 The enlarged view of section III shows a cross-sectional view after the ear loop 20a (ear loop piece 20) has been cut along the left-right direction D2. Figure 6 As shown in (a), the ear loop piece 20 (or ear loop 20a) can be a multi-layered piece composed of multiple stacked layers. Figure 6 In example (a), the ear loop 20a has a stretchable film (stretchable component) 5, on one side (first surface) of the stretchable film 5, a first surface material 2 is disposed, and on the side opposite to the first surface (second surface), a second surface material 3 is disposed. It should be noted that the ear loop 20a (ear loop piece 20) may not have such a... Figure 6 Instead of having a surface material disposed on both sides of the elastic film 5 as shown in (a), it has a structure in which a surface material is disposed on only one side.

[0056] The elasticity of the loop portion 20a is primarily due to the elastic membrane (elastic component) included within it. An elastic component is a component that can elongate in at least one direction when a tensile force is applied, and returns to its original length (natural length) when the applied tensile force is released (in a state without external force). Furthermore, when using the elastic membrane 5, i.e., when using a continuous molded body, i.e., a film, with approximately uniform thickness, higher elasticity or elongation and greater stress can be obtained compared to fibrous structures (sheets formed by assembling fibers), thereby expanding the design range of the loop portion 20a. In particular, the degree of freedom in designing the elongation characteristics of the loop portion 20a increases.

[0057] Examples of materials that can be used for the stretchable film 5 include polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, and polyurethane. Preferably, the stretchable film 5 has a maximum elongation (elongation at tensile break) of 3.5 to 4.0, as measured by a tensile testing machine. It should be noted that the stretchable film 5 may also allow moisture to pass through.

[0058] exist Figure 6 In the example shown, although the stretchable film 5 is used as a stretchable component, the stretchable component is not limited to a film shape. For example, the ear loop 20a can replace the stretchable film and include an assembly of linear stretchable bodies (or linear elastomers) arranged with multiple elastic lines, or it can include a stretchable hot melt adhesive. The hot melt adhesive can be configured as a line or as a surface. However, it is preferable that the film-type stretchable component is easier to handle during manufacturing.

[0059] like Figure 6As shown in (a), when surface materials are provided on both sides of the stretchable member 5, the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 can be the same or different. Furthermore, it is preferable that the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 are fiber structures. Examples of fiber structures include nonwoven fabrics, textiles, and woven fabrics, among which nonwoven fabrics are preferred based on their skin feel, breathability, and ability to improve wearing comfort. Examples of nonwoven fabrics include hot-air nonwoven fabrics, spunbond nonwoven fabrics, water-entangled nonwoven fabrics, needle-punched nonwoven fabrics, and chemically bonded nonwoven fabrics. Among these, spunbond nonwoven fabrics with low lint and high strength, and hot-air nonwoven fabrics with softness, can be appropriately selected. Furthermore, it is preferable that the fibers contained in the nonwoven fabric are resin fibers, and examples of resins used for resin fibers include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and nylon. When the first surface material 2 or the second surface material 3 is a nonwoven fabric, the unit area weight of the nonwoven fabric can be 5 to 50 g / m². 2 The preferred concentration is 8-25 g / m³. 2 .

[0060] It should be noted that, compared to non-stretchable materials, stretchable components such as the stretchable film 5 are more likely to cause irritation or discomfort when in direct contact with the wearer's face (skin). Therefore, it is preferable to configure the ear loop 20a in a manner that minimizes direct contact between the stretchable component and the wearer's skin. In the ear loop 20a of this configuration, since the stretchable film 5 is covered by the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3, direct contact between the stretchable film 5 and the skin can be avoided when wearing the mask, thereby improving the wearing comfort.

[0061] Figure 6 The ear loop 20a (ear loop piece 20) as shown in (a) is obtained as follows. That is, as shown in (a). Figure 6 As shown in (b), when a tensile force T is applied to the elastic film 5, causing it to stretch from its natural length, the unshrinked, naturally formed first surface material 2 and second surface material 3 are intermittently bonded to each surface through multiple interlayer bonding portions m. Afterwards, by releasing the tensile force T, a [structure / finishing process] can be achieved. Figure 6 The ear portion 20a (ear portion piece 20) in its natural state is shown in (a). The interlayer bonding portion m can be a part that bonds the layers together without substantially changing the state of each layer (elastic film 5, surface material 2, 3). Alternatively, the interlayer bonding portion m can be a fusion bonding portion, in which the layers can be fused together to form an integral whole, thereby reducing the thickness.

[0062] Figure 6As shown in (a), the ear loop 20a (ear loop piece 20) is in its natural state, that is, in a state where no external force is applied. Therefore, the elastic film 5 is also in its natural state and has its natural length. On the other hand, the length of the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 as a whole in the left-right direction D2 is reduced. This reduction in length is based on the portion outside the joint of the multiple interlayer joints m protruding from the elastic film 5 in a manner that forms folds. Multiple folds extending approximately along the vertical direction D1 of the mask 1 are formed in the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3, and appear wavy when viewed in cross-section.

[0063] Thus, since many folds are formed on the surface of the ear loop 20a, when the surface of the ear loop 20a comes into contact with the skin, the material of the ear loop 20a does not come into full contact with the skin, and a space is formed between the ear loop 20a and the skin, thereby reducing the feeling of sticking to the skin and improving the wearing comfort.

[0064] When wearing the mask 1, the ear loops 20a are primarily stretched and elongated in the lateral direction D2. At this time, the elongation characteristics of the ear loops 20a are closely related to the wearing comfort. For example, if the ear loops 20a can stretch to a sufficient length with relatively little force, it becomes easier to hook them onto the ears. Furthermore, the appropriate stress generated when wearing the ear loops 20a allows them to fit snugly against the ears without pain or discomfort. Figure 6 The elongation characteristics of the ear portion 20a (ear portion piece 20) configured as shown can depend on the elongation ratio k of the elastic film 5, which can be caused by a tensile force T when the surface materials are joined during the manufacturing of the ear portion 20a (ear portion piece 20). The elongation ratio k of the elastic component 5 is the length in the elongated state when the natural length (natural length) of the elastic component is set to 1. For example, if the surface materials are joined when the elastic component is elongated to twice its natural length during the manufacturing of the ear portion 20a or ear portion piece 20, then the elongation ratio k = 2. In other words, the elongation ratio k can be the ratio of the elongated length L1 of the elastic component when the surface materials are joined to the natural length L0 of the elastic component. That is, the elongation ratio k = L1 / L0. It should be noted that the elongation ratio k is a value greater than 1.

[0065] (Ear loops or ear loop pieces, and the manufacture of face masks)

[0066] Here, the manufacturing of the ear loops 20a, 20a or ear loop piece 20 will be explained. Figure 7A schematic diagram of a mask manufacturing apparatus 300 is shown. The mask manufacturing apparatus 300 has an ear loop manufacturing apparatus 100 upstream of it, and the ear loop manufacturing apparatus 100 further includes a mask component assembly apparatus 200 for assembling the manufactured mask with the ear loops and other mask components.

[0067] The ear-hanging part manufacturing apparatus 100 includes: a stretchable film strip supply device 123, which supplies a stretchable film strip (stretchable component strip) 5A for forming a stretchable film 5; a first surface material strip supply device 121, which supplies a first surface material strip 2A for forming a first surface material 2; and a second surface material strip supply device 122, which supplies a second surface material strip 3A for forming a second surface material 3. Strips of material, namely the stretchable film strip 5A, the first surface material strip 2A, and the second surface material strip 3A, are supplied from each supply device. Next, the first surface material strip 2A is overlapped on one side (first side) of the stretchable film strip 5A, and the second surface material strip 3A is overlapped on the other side (second side), thereby forming a multi-layer structure 6A. The multi-layer structure 6A is conveyed in the conveying direction Dt.

[0068] Here, the stretchable film strip 5A is conveyed in a stretched state in the conveying direction Dt, that is, in a state where a tensile force (tension) is applied in the conveying direction Dt. The degree of stretching of the stretchable film strip 5A is controlled by the release speed of the stretchable film strip supply device 123 and the conveying device (not shown). The degree of stretching of the stretchable film strip 5A can be, for example, 1.5 to 4 times its natural length, preferably 2 to 3 times. That is, the elongation ratio k of the ear tab 20 is preferably 1.5 to 4, more preferably 2 to 3. On the other hand, the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A are conveyed in a state with their natural length (unstretched state, or a state that does not stretch even when a tensile force is applied). Therefore, the surfaces of the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A stacked on each side of the stretchable film strip 5A are in a wrinkle-free state.

[0069] Next, the aforementioned multilayer structure 6A is fed to the bonding apparatus 140, where discontinuous interlayer bonding portions are formed between the stretchable film strip 5A and the first surface material strip 2A, and between the stretchable film strip 5A and the second surface material strip 3A, distributed throughout the multilayer structure 6A. In this configuration, the interlayer bonding portions are called bonding portions. Preferably, the bonding apparatus 140 is an ultrasonic bonding apparatus, but other apparatuses such as thermal bonding can also be used. The discontinuous bonding portions can be formed intermittently as dots when viewed from above. Alternatively, they can be formed as separate lines in the transport mode Dt. By bonding the interlayers of the multilayer structure 6A in the bonding apparatus 140, a laminate 8A can be obtained.

[0070] Figure 7 An enlarged cross-sectional view of partial IV is also shown. Multiple interlayer bonding portions (welded portions) m are intermittently formed between the stretchable film strip 5A and the first surface material strip 2A, and between the stretchable film strip 5A and the second surface material strip 3A. The reference diameter of a welded portion m in top view can be 0.2 to 1.0 mm. Furthermore, the area of ​​the welded portion m in top view can be 1.8 to 19.1% of the sheet area.

[0071] Further, the laminate 8A is fed to the relaxation device 160. In the relaxation device 160, the tension applied to the stretchable film strip 5A in the conveying direction Dt is eased. The degree to which the tension is eased in the relaxation device 160 is not limited, but it is preferably set to allow the stretchable film strip 5A to return to its natural length. By easing the stretchable film strip 5A, the stretchable film strip 5A shrinks. Here, the stretchable film strip 5A is bonded to the first surface material strip 2A through the welding section m, and the stretchable film strip 5A is also bonded to the second surface material strip 3A through the welding section m. Therefore, the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A shrink together with the stretchable film strip 5A, that is, their lengths shorten. However, since the portion that is not bonded to the stretchable film strip 5A through the welding section m does not relax along with the stretchable film strip 5A, it protrudes from the surface. Therefore, a number of small folds extending in a direction orthogonal to the conveying direction Dt are formed on the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A. It should be noted that the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A, when in a pleated state, do not generate, or generate essentially no, force to return to their original length. Therefore, the stretchable film 5 maintains its natural length.

[0072] Figure 7 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion V is also shown. As shown, in the ear loop strip 20A, the stretchable film strip 5A is flat, but the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A are contracted, forming folds. Furthermore, for the ear loop strip 20A, if the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A are observed in a cross-section cut along the conveying direction Dt, continuous irregularities are formed along the conveying direction Dt.

[0073] Next, the ear loop strip 20A is fed to the blanking device 180. In the blanking device 180, the ear loop strip 20A is blanked by the blanking die in a manner that allows each ear loop 20 to be formed. In any case, multiple ear loops 20, 20, ... can be obtained by the blanking device 180.

[0074] Thus, the ear loop piece 20 is manufactured by the following method: with the stretchable film strip 5A having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side stretched in a predetermined direction (conveying direction Dt), the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A are overlapped on the first side and the second side respectively, the stretchable film strip 5A is joined with the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A respectively to obtain a laminate 8A, the laminate 8A is contracted in the predetermined direction (conveying direction Dt) and cut, forming a plurality of ear loop pieces 20 constituting a pair of ear loops joined together in a separable manner.

[0075] It should be noted that, instead of the stretchable film strip 5A, a long strip material consisting of an assembly of multiple linear stretchable bodies (such as linear elastic bodies) can be used. In this case, as described above, the multiple linear stretchable body assemblies can be supplied under tension while being stretched at an elongation ratio k in the conveying direction Dt, and a first surface material strip 2A and a second surface material strip 3A are respectively stacked on each side of the assembly. Then, in the welding apparatus 140, welding can be performed between the linear stretchable bodies and the first surface material strip 2A, and between the linear stretchable bodies and the second surface material strip 3A, or the first surface material strip 2A and the second surface material strip 3A can be welded together by sandwiching the linear stretchable bodies.

[0076] Ear loops 20, 20, ... are fed to the mask component assembly 200. In the mask component assembly 200, an auxiliary material strip 30A is disposed on one side of the ear loop 20. The mask component assembly 200 includes a mask body strap supply device 221 for supplying the mask body strap 10A that forms the mask body. The mask body strap supply device 221 supplies the mask body strap 10A to the side of the ear loop 20 opposite to the side where the auxiliary material strip 30A is disposed.

[0077] After the ear loop piece 20, the auxiliary material strip 30A, and the mask body strip 10A are assembled, they are joined at a predetermined position by heat sealing or the like through the joining / cutting part 240 to form a first joining part B1 and a second joining part B2. Figure 1 as well as Figure 3 (etc.). Additionally, cutting is performed after or simultaneously with the joining. Thus, individual masks 1 can be obtained.

[0078] Figure 8The process of assembling components in the mask component assembly device 200 is schematically illustrated. That is, the mask is manufactured by: (a) forming ear loop pieces 20, and attaching an auxiliary material strip 30A to the sides of the two separate ear loop pieces 20, 20; (b) indirectly attaching the ear loop pieces 20 to the main body strap 10A by attaching the auxiliary material strip 30A to the outer surface of the main body strap 10A; and (c) cutting the auxiliary material strip 30A and the main body strap 10A to form an individual mask 1.

[0079] (Ear hook design)

[0080] In recent years, various sizes of masks have been provided according to their intended use and / or the size of the user's face. However, in this configuration, where a pair of ear loops 20a are single pieces and overlap the mask body 10 in a manner that at least in the left-right direction D2 does not extend from the mask body 10, the design of the ear loops 20a needs to be studied to improve the wearing comfort of the mask.

[0081] Figure 9 The image shows a top view of two masks of different sizes. Figure 9 The mask shown on the upper side is for reference. Figures 1-5 Mask 1, which has been explained. On the other hand, Figure 9 The lower side shows a smaller version of mask 1S, which is smaller than mask 1. Mask 1S can be provided, for example, as a mask for women or children. Figure 9 The detailed diagram of the mask's structure is omitted in the text.

[0082] like Figure 9 As shown, compared with mask 1, the length w of the mask body 10 in the left-right direction D2 of mask 1S is... m It becomes smaller. In this method, the length w of the mask body 10 in the left-right direction D2 is... m The length of the mask in the left-right direction D2 is equal to that of the mask. On the other hand, the length (height) h of the mask in the up-down direction D1 is equal to that of mask 1 and mask 1S. Thus, in the case of designing a smaller size mask, only the length w of the left-right direction D2 is equal to that of the mask. m The values ​​are often set to a smaller value, but depending on the purpose of the mask, sometimes both the vertical direction D1 and the horizontal direction D2 are also set to a smaller value.

[0083] When changing the size of a mask with single-piece ear loops 20a and 20a (ear loop pieces 20) overlapping the main body 10, as in this method, it is also necessary to change the length w of the left-right direction D2 of the ear loops 20a. e .like Figure 9 As shown, the length w of the mask body 10 in the left-right direction D2 is... mWhen the size is set to a smaller size, the length w of the left and right direction D2 of the ear loop 20a needs to be increased. e Set to a smaller value.

[0084] When the size of the ear loop 20a is set to be small, simply setting the shape of the ear loop 20a to a smaller shape corresponding to the shrinkage rate of the mask body 10 can sometimes cause inconvenience. For example, if the ear loop 20a is only reduced in size to correspond to the shrinkage rate of the mask body, the width of the loop of the ear loop 20a becomes smaller, and sometimes the ear loop does not provide a comfortable fit for the ears. In particular, when only the length D2 in the left-right direction of the mask body 10 is set to be small, there are areas where the width of the loop of the ear loop 20a is reduced and areas where the width remains unchanged, which may cause problems with the stability of the ear loop. Therefore, the shape of the loop of the ear loop 20a should not only be a shape that is reduced in size corresponding to the shrinkage rate, but also needs to be designed according to the changed size of the mask (the desired size of the mask).

[0085] like Figure 9 As shown, the loop of the ear loop 20a has: a fixing part 22, which includes an end that is directly or indirectly fixed to the mask body 10 in the left-right direction D2; a hook part 24, which is located behind the wearer's ear when worn; an upper transition part 23, which transitions from the fixing part 22 to the hook part 24 on the upper side of the loop; and a lower transition part 26, which transitions from the fixing part 22 to the hook part 24 on the lower side of the loop. The upper transition part 23 and the lower transition part 26, which are the parts that are primarily stretched in the left-right direction D2 when the ear loop 20a is stretched by the user during the wearing action, are the loop of the ear loop 20a. In this specification, the parts that are easily stretched due to stretching (the upper transition part 23 and the lower transition part 26) are referred to as high-stretching parts, and the parts that are difficult to stretch due to stretching (the fixing part 22 and the hook part 24) are referred to as low-stretching parts.

[0086] Figure 9 The mask 1S shown is a size change compared to mask 1, resulting in a smaller lateral dimension D2. In mask 1S, the shape of the ear loops 20a of mask 1 remains essentially unchanged compared to mask 1, except that the width d of the loops of ear loops 20a is altered; instead, the length w of the lateral dimension D2 of ear loops 20a is increased. e The setting is relatively small. Therefore, the length w of the high elongation portion (upper transition portion 23 and lower transition portion 26) in the loop of the ear portion 20a is relatively small. e1 The length w of the lower elongation portion in the left-right direction D2 e2 w e2 Compared to mask 1, the length of the elongated portion is significantly shorter. That is, in mask 1S, compared to mask 1, the length w of the elongated portion is significantly shorter. e1 The length w of the ear loop 20a eThe ratio becomes smaller. Therefore, the ear loops 20a of the smaller-sized mask 1S are difficult to stretch compared to mask 1. Therefore, in the design of the ear loops 20a, it is necessary to study the material properties of the ear loops 20a in a way that is suitable for size and shape.

[0087] The inventors have discovered a relationship between the structure of the mask 1 or the ear loop 20a and the elongation characteristics of the ear loop 20a, which provides excellent wearing comfort. According to this method, it is known that the elongation ratio k (k>1) during the manufacture of the ear loop 20a is related to the length w of the lateral direction D2 of the aforementioned high-elongation portion. e1 The length (in its unstretched, natural length) is set to an approximately inverse relationship, resulting in a mask that provides comfort to the user both during the wearing action and while wearing. More specifically, the elongation ratio k when manufacturing the ear loop 20a can be related to the length w of the lateral direction D2 of the aforementioned high-elongation portion. e1 The multiplication value (in mm) is set to 75-145. That is, it can be set to k×w. e1 =75~145. The above k×w is preferred. e1 The value is 88–117, more preferably 90–115, and even more preferably 92–113. (Based on k×w) e1 With a value of 85 or higher, it facilitates easy elongation of the ear loop 20a during wearing, and allows for continuous wear without straining the ears. Furthermore, through k×w... e1 With a value below 120, gaps can be avoided between the mask body 10 and the face, resulting in a better fit. Therefore, based on the dimensions of the mask 1 and the ear loops 20a, ear loops 20a with suitable elongation characteristics can be obtained, thus achieving a mask with excellent wearing comfort.

[0088] Length w of the elongated portion e1 The length of the portion of the ear-like part 20a that extends primarily in the left-right direction D2 can be defined, more specifically, as the longest length of the opening 29 in the left-right direction D2. From this, the length w of the elongated portion can be easily calculated. e1 However, the longest length of the opening 29 in the left-right direction D2 does not include any length that does not contribute to elongation. For example, when the opening 29 overlaps with the auxiliary material 30 and a second joint B2 is formed on the upper or lower side of the overlapping portion, thereby fixing the ear portion 20a to the auxiliary material 30, the length from the edge of the opening 29 in the left-right direction D2 to the inner edge of the second joint B2 in the left-right direction D2 does not include the length w of the high elongation portion. e1 .

[0089] Thus, according to this method, it is possible to manufacture ear loops 20a, 20a with elongation characteristics corresponding to the size of the mask 1, thereby providing a mask with excellent wearing comfort.

[0090] It should be noted that the length w of the mask body 10 in the left-right direction D2 is... m The length can be 120–190 mm. The vertical length h of the mask body 10 in the vertical direction D1 can be 60–100 mm. Additionally, the horizontal length w of the ear loops 20a in the horizontal direction D2... e The length can be 55–90 mm, preferably 65–85 mm. In particular, according to this method, even in the left-right direction of the mask body 10, the length w... m Even for masks that are generally considered small, such as those with a diameter of 165mm or less, especially 160mm or less, the ear loops 20a can still achieve optimal elongation characteristics. Furthermore, even in the case of masks with a diameter of 165mm or less, particularly 160mm or less, which are typically considered small, the ear loops 20a can still achieve optimal elongation characteristics. e Even with a mask that is approximately 55 to 75 mm in diameter, it is easy to obtain a comfortable ear loop 20a.

[0091] Furthermore, in the ear loop portion 20a, the length w of the left-right direction D2 of the elongated portion is preferably [missing information]. e1 The length w of the left and right direction D2 of the ear loop e The value of the ratio (w) e1 / w e The ratio can be 0.45 to 0.7, and more preferably 0.5 to 0.65. Furthermore, in this method, the ear loop is specifically designed with the above ratio (w) e1 / w e Masks constructed with a particle size of 0.65 or less, preferably 0.6 or less, can provide an excellent wearing experience.

[0092] For example, the length w of D2 in the left-right direction of the mask body 10 m In the case of 155mm, although the structure (shape) of the ear part 20a may vary, it is preferable to make the ear part 20a with an elongation ratio of 2.35 to 2.65.

[0093] Furthermore, to improve the stability of the ear loop 20a structure and enhance the wearing comfort, it is preferable that the width d of the loop of the ear loop 20a is approximately constant, and particularly preferably that the widths of the upper transition portion 23, the hook portion 24, and the lower transition portion 26 are approximately equal. Even with a mask in which the width of the loop of the ear loop 20a is set to be approximately constant, an ear loop 20a with optimal elongation characteristics can be obtained.

[0094] One aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing a face mask, comprising: (a) with a stretchable member elongated at a predetermined ratio in a predetermined direction, overlapping a surface material on at least one side of the stretchable member, intermittently joining the stretchable member and the surface material to obtain a laminate, relaxing the laminate in the predetermined direction, and cutting to form a plurality of single-piece ear loops, each including a pair of ear loops; (b) overlapping two ear loops separated in the predetermined direction to form a face mask body strap, and joining the ear loops to the face mask body strap in such a way that the pair of ear loops are respectively joined to the two ends in the left and right directions of the face mask body; (c) cutting the face mask body strap to form an individual face mask, wherein the ear loops have a high elongation portion that is easy to elongate in the left and right directions when worn and a low elongation portion that is difficult to elongate in the left and right directions. According to this manufacturing method, it is possible to easily manufacture a face mask with ear loops having optimal elongation characteristics corresponding to the size and providing excellent wearing comfort.

[0095] Furthermore, in the above manufacturing method, it is preferable to set the value of multiplying the specified magnification ratio by the length (in mm) of the elongated portion in the left-right direction to be 75 to 145. That is, the specified magnification ratio is set to k, and the length of the elongated portion in the left-right direction is set to w. e1 (unit: mm), preferred k×w e1 =75~145.

[0096] In the above manufacturing method, after forming the ear loop piece (a), (b) before or after attaching the ear loop piece to the main body strap of the mask, an auxiliary material strip can be joined to the ear loop piece in a manner that overlaps with the adjacent ear loop piece to become an auxiliary material. Furthermore, (c) when cutting the main body strap of the mask, both the main body strap and the auxiliary material strip can be cut at the same time.

[0097] (Example)

[0098] Ear loops with different elongation ratios were made and used to manufacture face masks, and the wearing comfort was evaluated.

[0099] (Example 1)

[0100] Made Figure 10 The mask is constructed as shown. For its manufacture, a length w of D2 in the left-right direction is prepared. m It is 155mm long and has pleats. Figure 10 The mask body is constructed of three layers of non-woven fabric. Two layers of fabric, each with a length w in the left-right direction (D2), are overlapped on this mask body. e The ear loop piece is 67.5mm in diameter. The ear loop piece passes through a reference... Figure 7 as well as Figure 8The method described herein is the same as that described above, wherein spunbond nonwoven fabric (15 g / m²) is bonded to both sides of an elastic film (made of polyolefin resin, with a maximum stretch ratio of 4 times). 2 The material is formed from a material that is 2.7 times longer than the material used for the loop piece. Additionally, the length w of the high-elongation portion in the loop piece... e1 It is 37.6 mm. The elongation ratio k is compared with the length w of the high elongation portion. e1 The product is 2.7 × 37.6 = 101.52.

[0101] It should be noted that the auxiliary material is spunbond nonwoven fabric (30g / m² per unit area). 2 The ear loops and auxiliary materials are heat-sealed together, forming a joint covering a range of 3-5 mm in the left-right direction (D2). The mask body and auxiliary materials are also heat-sealed together, forming a joint covering a range of 3-10 mm in the left-right direction (D2).

[0102] (Example 2)

[0103] Except for the use of ear loops with an elongation ratio k of 2.5, a mask of the same shape and size as in Example 1 was manufactured, identical to that in Example 1. The elongation ratio k was compared with the length w of the high elongation portion. e1 The product is 2.5 × 37.6 = 94.

[0104] (Example 3)

[0105] Except for the use of ear loops with an elongation ratio of 2.3, a mask of the same shape and size as in Example 1 was manufactured. The elongation ratio k and the length w of the high elongation portion are... e1 The product is 2.3 × 37.6 = 86.48.

[0106] Nine evaluators evaluated the masks in Examples 1 through 3. The evaluation items included "ease of wearing," "ease of extension around the ears," "overall wearing comfort," and "ear comfort," all rated on a 5-point scale. The arithmetic mean of the nine evaluators' assessments for each item was calculated and used as the final evaluation result. It should be noted that the evaluation criteria are shown below.

[0107] 1: Poor

[0108] 2: Slightly worse

[0109] 3:Normal

[0110] 4: Slightly better

[0111] 5: Good

[0112] exist Figure 11The results are shown in the table. It can be seen that all examples achieved a relatively good rating of 3.5 or higher across all categories. In particular, Example 2 shows the highest ratings in both the "comfort of wearing" and "comfort of wearing in the ears" categories.

[0113] The specific embodiments of the present invention are described below.

[0114] (Note 1)

[0115] Note 1 describes a type of face mask, comprising: a face mask body; and a pair of ear loops respectively attached to the left and right ends of the face mask body, wherein the pair of ear loops are formed as a single piece and, in a state before use, overlap the face mask body without extending from it in the left and right directions. Each ear loop has: a stretchable member; and a surface material attached to at least one surface of the stretchable member when it extends from its natural length by a predetermined ratio. The ear loops have a high elongation portion that is easy to extend in the left and right directions and a low elongation portion that is difficult to extend in the left and right directions.

[0116] In the mask of the manner described in Note 1 above, since the pair of ear loops are formed as a single piece (formed from a single sheet) and do not extend from the mask body in at least the left and right directions but overlap with the mask body, the body and the sheet-like ear loops can be overlapped and joined together, thus making continuous manufacturing easy.

[0117] Furthermore, in this design, the ear loops have a high elongation portion that easily extends in the lateral direction and a low elongation portion that does not easily extend in the lateral direction. Therefore, it is possible to obtain ear loops that exhibit good elongation characteristics in the lateral direction, the main direction in which the ear loops are stretched, during wearing and while wearing. Moreover, in this design, the ear loops are configured to engage with the surface material when the elastic member is stretched to a predetermined ratio; therefore, the elongation characteristics of the ear loops can be easily adjusted by changing the degree of elongation of the elastic member during the manufacturing of the ear loops. Thus, it is possible to obtain ear loops with suitable elongation characteristics corresponding to the size of the mask and the size of the ear loops, thereby enabling the production of masks with excellent wearing comfort.

[0118] (Note 2)

[0119] In the method described in Note 2, the aforementioned specified multiplier is set as k, and the length of the aforementioned elongated portion in the left and right directions is set as w. e1 (unit: mm), and k×w e1 =75~145.

[0120] According to the method described in Note 2 above, in the manufacturing of the lug, the elongation ratio (elongation ratio) k of the telescopic component is compared with the length w of the high elongation portion in the lug that is easy to elongate in the left and right directions in the left and right directions. e1 The multiplication factor (in mm) is set to 75-145. Therefore, even when the size of the mask changes, or when the size of the ear loops changes, it is possible to obtain ear loops with suitable elongation characteristics corresponding to the size, thereby enabling the production of masks with excellent wearing comfort.

[0121] (Note 3)

[0122] In the manner described in Note 3, the aforementioned elastic member has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the surface material includes a first surface material bonded to the first surface and a second surface material bonded to the second surface.

[0123] According to the method described in Note 3 above, the single-piece ear loop is a structure in which the elastic component is sandwiched between a first surface material and a second surface material. That is, both sides of the elastic component are covered by the surface material, and the elastic component is not exposed. The elastic component may contain materials that could cause skin irritation or discomfort when it stretches and contracts in direct contact with the user's skin. Therefore, by appropriately selecting the surface material, contact between the elastic component and the wearer's skin can be avoided, thereby improving the wearing comfort when the ear loop contacts the user's skin.

[0124] (Note 4)

[0125] In the manner described in Note 4, the aforementioned stretchable component is a stretchable film.

[0126] According to the method described in Note 4 above, by setting the elastic component as a thin film, it is easier to manufacture the ear loop and also easier to maintain the shape of the ear loop.

[0127] (Note 5)

[0128] In the manner described in Note 5, the first surface material and the second surface material are composed of nonwoven fabric.

[0129] According to the method described in Note 5 above, by setting the first surface material and the second surface material that may come into direct contact with the user's skin as non-woven fabric, the surface of the ear loop can be made soft, thereby improving the wearing comfort of the ear loop.

[0130] (Note 6)

[0131] In the manner described in Note 6, the aforementioned ear loops are disposed on the outer surface of the main body of the mask.

[0132] According to the method described in Note 6 above, at the beginning of use, the pair of ear loops, which are formed as a single piece, can be separated from each other and opened to the left and right without basically touching the inner surface of the mask body (the side opposite the face when worn). Therefore, it is possible to wear a mask in good hygiene condition.

[0133] (Note 7)

[0134] In the manner described in Note 7, sheet-like auxiliary materials are also included, through which the ear loops are combined with the main body of the mask.

[0135] According to the method described in Note 7 above, the ear loops are bonded to the mask body separately through auxiliary materials. That is, the mask can be formed without directly bonding the ear loops to the mask body. Therefore, the connection between the ear loops and the auxiliary materials, and the connection between the mask body and the auxiliary materials, can be formed separately in appropriate ways. This ensures that the function and comfort of the components are not compromised, creating a strong and durable bond between the ear loops and the mask body. Furthermore, it prevents a portion of the ear loops from being used for bonding to the mask body. Therefore, compared to the case where the ear loops are directly bonded to the mask body, the ear loops can move more freely relative to the mask body, thus increasing the freedom of position for wearing the ear loops.

[0136] (Note 8)

[0137] In the manner described in Note 8, (a) with the elastic member elongated in a specified direction at a specified ratio, a surface material is overlapped on at least one side of the elastic member, and the elastic member and the surface material are intermittently joined to obtain a laminate. The laminate is then relaxed in the specified direction, and by cutting, a plurality of single-piece ear loop pieces, each including a pair of ear loops, are formed. (b) Two ear loop pieces separated in the specified direction are overlapped to form a mask body strap for the mask body. The ear loop pieces are joined to the mask body strap in such a way that the pair of ear loops are respectively joined to the two ends in the left and right directions of the mask body. (c) The mask body strap is cut to form an individual mask. The ear loops have a high elongation portion that is easy to elongate in the left and right directions when worn and a low elongation portion that is difficult to elongate in the left and right directions.

[0138] According to the method described in Note 8 above, a manufacturing method can be provided that can achieve the same effect as that obtained in the method described in Note 1 above.

[0139] (Note 9)

[0140] In the manner described in Note 9, the aforementioned specified multiplier is set as k, and the length of the aforementioned elongated portion in the left-right direction is set as w. e1 (unit: mm), and k×we1 =75~145.

[0141] According to the method described in Note 9 above, a manufacturing method can be provided that can achieve the same effect as that obtained in the method described in Note 2 above.

[0142] This application claims priority to basic application No. 2020-130069 filed by the Japan Patent Office on July 31, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0143] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0144] 1. 1S Mask

[0145] 2 First Surface Material

[0146] 2A First Surface Material Strip

[0147] 3 Second Surface Material

[0148] 3A Second Surface Material Strip

[0149] 5. Stretchable film (stretchable component)

[0150] 5A Stretch Film Tape (Stretch Component Tape)

[0151] 6A Multi-layer Structure

[0152] 8A laminate

[0153] 10 Masks

[0154] 10A mask body strap

[0155] 15 pleats

[0156] 20 ear loops

[0157] 20a Ear loop

[0158] 20A Ear loop strap

[0159] 22 Fixing part

[0160] 23 Upper transition section

[0161] 24 hooks

[0162] 26 Lower transition section

[0163] 28 Separable joints

[0164] 29 openings

[0165] 30 auxiliary materials

[0166] 30A auxiliary material belt

[0167] 100-piece mask ear loop manufacturing device

[0168] 121 First surface material belt supply device

[0169] 122 Second Surface Material Belt Supply Device

[0170] 123 Stretchable membrane belt supply device

[0171] 140 welding equipment

[0172] 160 relaxation device

[0173] 180 punching device

[0174] 200 Mask Component Assembly Device

[0175] 221 mask body with supply device

[0176] 240 Joint / Cut-off Section

[0177] 300 mask manufacturing equipment

[0178] B1 First Joint

[0179] B2 Second Joint

[0180] D1 mask top and bottom

[0181] D2 mask left and right directions

[0182] Dt conveying direction

Claims

1. A face mask, comprising: The main body of the mask; as well as A pair of ear loops are attached to the left and right ends of the main body of the mask, respectively. The length of the main body of the mask in the left-right direction is less than 160mm, and the length of the ear loops in the left-right direction is 55mm to 75mm. The aforementioned pair of ear loops are formed as a single piece, and in the state before use, they do not extend from the mask body in the left and right directions but overlap with it. The aforementioned ear-like portion includes: a telescopic member; and a surface material, which is attached to at least one surface of the telescopic member when the telescopic member is stretched from its natural length by a predetermined ratio, wherein the predetermined ratio is 2 to 3. The aforementioned ear loop has a ring shape, the width of which is approximately constant. The aforementioned ear loop portion includes: a fixing portion, which is fixed to the left-right end of the mask body; a hook portion, which is located behind the wearer's ears when worn; an upper transition portion, which transitions from the fixing portion to the hook portion on the upper side of the ring; and a lower transition portion, which transitions from the fixing portion to the hook portion on the lower side of the ring. The aforementioned ear loop has a high elongation portion that is easy to extend in the aforementioned left-right direction and a low elongation portion that is difficult to extend in the aforementioned left-right direction. The aforementioned upper transition portion and the aforementioned lower transition portion are highly elongated portions that are easy to extend in the aforementioned left and right directions. The aforementioned fixing part and the aforementioned hook part are low elongation parts that are difficult to extend in the aforementioned left and right directions.

2. The mask according to claim 1, wherein, If the aforementioned multiplier is set to k, and the length of the ear loop in the left-right direction is set to w e And the length of the aforementioned elongated portion in the left and right directions is set to w. e1 Then w e1 / w e =0.45~0.7, k×w e1 =85~120, where w e and w e1 The unit is mm.

3. The mask according to claim 2, wherein, In e1 / In e =0.45~(37.6 / 67.5),k×w e1 =88~94。 4. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The aforementioned telescopic component has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The aforementioned surface material includes a first surface material that is bonded to the first surface and a second surface material that is bonded to the second surface.

5. The mask according to claim 4, wherein, The aforementioned stretchable component is a stretchable membrane.

6. The mask according to claim 4, wherein, The first and second surface materials mentioned above are made of nonwoven fabric.

7. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The aforementioned ear loops are located on the outer surface of the main body of the mask.

8. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It also includes sheet-like auxiliary materials, The aforementioned ear loops are attached to the main body of the mask using the aforementioned auxiliary materials.

9. A method for manufacturing a face mask, comprising the following steps: (a) With the elastic member elongated in a specified direction at a specified ratio, at least one surface material overlaps on the elastic member. The aforementioned stretchable components are intermittently bonded to the aforementioned surface material to obtain a laminate. The aforementioned laminated body is relaxed in the specified direction. By cutting, multiple single-piece ear loop pieces, each including a pair of ear loops, are formed. (b) A mask body strap for forming the mask body is layered on the two ear loop pieces that are separated in the aforementioned specified direction, and the ear loop pieces are attached to the mask body strap in such a way that the two ends of the pair of ear loops are respectively joined in the left and right directions of the mask body. (c) Cut off the main body straps of the mask to form individual masks. in, The length of the main body of the mask in the left-right direction is less than 160mm, and the length of the ear loops in the left-right direction is 55mm to 75mm. The specified magnification ratio is 2 to 3. The aforementioned ear loop has a ring shape, the width of which is approximately constant. The aforementioned ear loop portion includes: a fixing portion, which is fixed to the left-right end of the mask body; a hook portion, which is located behind the wearer's ears when worn; an upper transition portion, which transitions from the fixing portion to the hook portion on the upper side of the ring; and a lower transition portion, which transitions from the fixing portion to the hook portion on the lower side of the ring. The aforementioned upper transition portion and the aforementioned lower transition portion are highly elongated portions that are easy to extend in the aforementioned left and right directions. The aforementioned fixing part and the aforementioned hook part are low elongation parts that are difficult to extend in the aforementioned left and right directions.

10. The method for manufacturing a mask according to claim 9, wherein, If the aforementioned multiplier is set to k, and the length of the ear loop in the left-right direction is set to w e And the length of the aforementioned elongated portion in the left and right directions is set to w. e1 Then w e1 / w e =0.45~0.7, k×w e1 =85~120, where w e and w e1 The unit is mm.

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