mask

Abstract

To provide a mask excellent in wearing comfort.SOLUTION: A mask 10 includes: a mask body 12 which has a longitudinal direction X, a vertical direction Y and a thickness direction Z, and covers the nose, the mouth and the jaw of a wearer P; and ear hooks 14 which are provided on both sides of the longitudinal direction X in the mask body 12 and are hung on the ears of the wearer P. The mask body 12 has an outer layer 16, a shape retention part 18 and an inner layer 20 in this order in the thickness direction Z and has a shape in which a center of the longitudinal direction X becomes convex toward the outer layer 16 from the inner layer 20 along the vertical direction Y. The shape retention part 18 has a main shape retention member 44 extending along the longitudinal direction X, and at least a part of the main shape retention member 44 is arranged on a side lower than the lips of the wearer P and a side upper than a tip of a lower jaw P2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Known masks include, for example, a breathable covering that covers the wearer's nose and mouth and a wearing means that allows the peripheral edge of the covering to fit the face (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The mask in Patent Document 1 has a first wire strap that extends along a ridge that divides the covering into two equal parts in the width direction, and a second wire strap that extends along the upper edge on both sides of the ridge. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-29327 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The mask of Patent Document 1 secures space in the center of the wearer's mouth by using a first band-shaped wire arranged in the vertical direction, but because the covering portion is worn in a state where it is pulled left and right by the wearing means, the covering portions on the left and right sides of the mouth tend to come into contact with the wearer's mouth, making it difficult to secure sufficient space around the mouth. Therefore, the mask of Patent Document 1 has the problem that the inner surface of the covering portion tends to come into contact with the wearer's mouth, making it difficult to wear.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a mask that is comfortable to wear. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention provides a mask comprising: a mask body having a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, and a thickness direction, and covering the nose, mouth, and chin of a wearer; and ear loops provided on both sides of the mask body in the horizontal direction and hooked over the wearer's ears, wherein the mask body has an outer layer, a shape-retaining part, and an inner layer, in that order in the thickness direction, and the center in the horizontal direction has a shape that is convex from the inner layer toward the outer layer along the vertical direction, and the shape-retaining part has a main shape-retaining member that extends along the horizontal direction, and at least a portion of the main shape-retaining member is positioned below the lips of the wearer and above the tip of the lower jaw. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The mask according to the present invention is comfortable to wear. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a mask according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the mask according to the embodiment folded in the middle. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an end view taken along line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a rear view showing the mask according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a front view of the inner layer according to the present embodiment, seen from the outside. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which the mask according to the present embodiment is worn. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] [Aspect 1] a mask body having a left-right direction, a top-bottom direction, and a thickness direction, and covering the nose, mouth, and chin of a wearer; ear loops provided on both sides of the mask body in the left-right direction and adapted to be hung on the wearer's ears; The mask body includes: The outer layer, the shape-retaining portion, and the inner layer are arranged in this order in the thickness direction, The center in the left-right direction has a shape that is convex from the inner layer to the outer layer along the up-down direction, the shape-retaining portion has a main shape-retaining member extending along the left-right direction, A mask wherein at least a portion of the main shape-retaining member is positioned below the wearer's lips and above the tip of the chin. The mask is fixed to the wearer's face with the inner layer facing the wearer's skin and the ear loops hanging over each of the wearer's ears, with the mask body positioned to cover the wearer's nose and mouth. The shape-retaining portion is positioned inside the outer layer and therefore cannot be seen from the outside. The shape-retaining portion is positioned outside the inner layer and therefore is prevented from coming into direct contact with the wearer's skin. Therefore, the mask has a high degree of design freedom and can suppress deterioration in wearing comfort. The mask body has a shape in which the center is convex from the inner layer to the outer layer in the vertical direction, a so-called three-dimensional mask shape, so that it easily conforms to the wearer's face from the nose bone to the chin, providing an excellent fit. At least a portion of the main shape-retaining member is positioned between the wearer's lips and chin of the mask body and extends in the left-right direction, creating a sufficient space between the wearer's mouth and the mask body. Because a sufficient space is created between the wearer's mouth and the mask body, the mask prevents the inner layer from touching the wearer's mouth. When a wearer wearing a mask opens their mouth, the lower end of the mask body is pulled downward by the wearer's chin, and the upper end of the mask body catches on the wearer's nose, exerting a vertical pulling force on the mask body. This force can deform the mask body's central shape along the vertical direction from a shape that is convex toward the outer layer to a flat shape. As the central shape of the mask body deforms into a flat shape, the main shape-retaining member moves downward while remaining positioned between the wearer's lips and chin. In other words, when the central shape of the mask body deforms into a flat shape, the main shape-retaining member moves while remaining positioned between the wearer's lips and chin, thereby maintaining the lateral space around the wearer's mouth and preventing the space around the mouth from narrowing. Therefore, even when the wearer opens their mouth, such as when wearing the mask while playing sports, a space is formed between the wearer's mouth and the mask body, preventing the inner layer from coming into contact with the wearer's mouth. Therefore, the mask is comfortable to wear.

[0010] [Aspect 2] 2. The mask of claim 1, wherein the main shape-retaining member is sewn to the inner layer. Because the main shape-retaining member is sewn to the inner layer, the inner layer is prevented from deforming in the thickness direction due to breath inhaled into the wearer's mouth, even when the wearer takes a deep breath, for example, while playing sports. Therefore, even when the wearer takes a deep breath, the mask forms a space between the wearer's mouth and the mask body, preventing the inner layer from coming into contact with the wearer's mouth.

[0011] [Aspect 3] The shape-retaining part further includes a central shape-retaining member disposed at the center of the mask body, The mask according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the central shape-retaining member extends in the up-down direction from below the tip of the wearer's nose toward an upper end of the mask body. The central shape-retaining member is located in the center of the mask body and extends vertically, making it easy to form a shape that is convex from the inner layer to the outer layer along the bridge of the wearer's nose.Furthermore, the central shape-retaining member has its lower end located below the tip of the wearer's nose, making it easy to form a space between the wearer's mouth and the mask body.

[0012] [Aspect 4] The mask according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the shape-retaining part further includes an upper shape-retaining member provided at an upper end of the mask body and extending along the left-right direction. The upper shape-retaining member is located at the upper end of the mask body and extends in the left-right direction, making it easy to form a shape that follows the bridge of the nose and cheeks. Furthermore, the upper shape-retaining member prevents the mask body from slipping down when playing sports or when the wearer opens their mouth wide. In other words, by preventing the mask body from slipping out of position while being worn, the mask easily maintains the space formed between the wearer's mouth and the mask body.

[0013] [Aspect 5] The mask according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the shape-retaining portion has a double raschel knitted sheet portion. The shape-retaining portion has a double-russell knitted sheet portion, which provides breathability and more reliably creates a space between the wearer's mouth and the mask body, preventing air from becoming trapped between the mask body and the wearer's mouth, resulting in an excellent wearing comfort.

[0014] [Aspect 6] 6. The mask according to aspect 5, wherein the sheet portion has an I-shape when viewed in the thickness direction. The sheet portion has an I-shape when viewed from the thickness direction, so it is not placed on the wearer's cheeks. Therefore, the double-russell knitted sheet portion of the mask does not overlap with the wearer's skin, reducing the discomfort the wearer feels when touching the thick fabric. Therefore, the mask is comfortable to wear.

[0015] [Aspect 7] 7. The mask according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the shape-retaining portion has a fitting piece that is plastically deformable. The shape-retaining portion has a fitting piece that can be plastically deformed, so it can be deformed to fit the shape and position of the wearer's nose, mouth, and chin, and can retain the shape after deformation. Therefore, the mask can be adjusted to fit the wearer as needed and can retain that shape, providing an excellent fit.

[0016] [Aspect 8] The mask according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the shape-retaining portion has a double-raschel knitted sheet portion and a plastically deformable fitting piece. When the shape-retaining portion has a sheet portion made of Russell fabric and a plastically deformable fitting piece, the sheet portion forms a space between the wearer's mouth and the mask body, which is maintained by the fitting piece. Therefore, the mask easily maintains the space formed between the wearer's nose and mouth, making it comfortable to wear even when worn for long periods of time.

[0017] [Aspect 9] 9. The mask of claim 8, wherein the fitting piece is provided between the outer layer and the sheet portion. The fitting piece is located between the outer layer and the sheet portion, so it overlaps with the wearer's skin via the sheet portion and the inner layer. In other words, by being positioned between the wearer's skin and the fitting piece, the sheet portion prevents the fitting piece from affecting the feel against the skin. Therefore, the mask is comfortable to wear.

[0018] [Aspect 10] The inner layer is A first inner layer having surfaces extending from the center to both the left and right sides; a second inner layer sewn to the lower end of the first inner layer, the main shape-retaining member has a first fitting piece that extends along the left-right direction and is capable of plastic deformation; The mask of any one of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the first fitting piece is sewn to a first dividing line where the first inner layer and the second inner layer are sewn together. The first seam line, which joins the first and second inner layers, can be positioned between the wearer's lips and chin. Since the first fitting piece is sewn to the first seam line, the mask maintains its shape along the first seam line, making it easier to maintain the space between the wearer's nose and mouth. Furthermore, because the first fitting piece is sewn to the first dividing line, even when the wearer takes a deep breath, the inner layer is prevented from deforming in the thickness direction due to breath drawn into the wearer's mouth. Therefore, even when the wearer takes a deep breath while playing sports, the mask forms a space between the wearer's mouth and the mask body, preventing the inner layer from coming into contact with the wearer's mouth.

[0019] [Aspect 11] The inner layer is a left inner layer having a surface extending from the center to the left; a right inner layer having a surface extending from the center to the right, the central shape-retaining member has a second fitting piece that extends along the up-down direction and is capable of plastic deformation; The mask of aspect 3, wherein the second fitting piece is sewn to a second seam line where the left inner layer and the right inner layer are sewn together. The second seam line where the left and right inner layers are sewn together can be positioned along the bridge of the wearer's nose. Since the second fitting piece is sewn to the second seam line, the mask maintains its shape along the second seam line, making it easier to maintain the space between the wearer's nose and mouth.

[0020] [Aspect 12] the upper shape-retaining member has a third fitting piece that is plastically deformable and extends from the center of the mask body to both the left and right sides, The mask of aspect 4, wherein the third fitting piece is separated into left and right halves at the center of the mask body. The third fitting piece is separated into two parts in the center of the mask body, allowing it to easily deform from the bridge of the wearer's nose to their cheeks. Since the mask does not have a third fitting piece in the area that overlaps the bridge of the nose, and the mask body is thin in that area, the mask body easily fits snugly to the bridge of the wearer's nose. This provides a comfortable fit.

[0021] [Aspect 13] The shape-retaining part further includes a central shape-retaining member disposed at the center of the mask body and extending along the up-down direction, the central shape-retaining member extends in the up-down direction from below the tip of the wearer's nose toward an upper end of the mask body, the central shape-retaining member has a second fitting piece that extends along the up-down direction and is capable of plastic deformation; Aspect 13. The mask of aspect 12, wherein an upper end of the second fitting piece is separate from the third fitting piece. The central shape-retaining member is located in the center of the mask body and extends vertically, making it easy to form a shape that is convex from the inner layer to the outer layer along the bridge of the wearer's nose. Furthermore, the central shape-retaining member's lower end is located below the tip of the wearer's nose, making it easy to form a space between the wearer's mouth and the mask body. Furthermore, the central shape-retaining member has a second fitting piece, which helps maintain its shape. The upper end of the second fitting piece is separated from the third fitting piece, making the mask thinner at the top center of the mask body. This allows the mask body to easily fit snugly against the wearer's nose, resulting in a comfortable fit.

[0022] [Aspect 14] The mask body includes: The outer layer and the inner layer are sewn together at their outer edges, 14. The mask according to any one of aspects 1 to 13, wherein the surface area of ​​the inner layer is smaller than the surface area of ​​the outer layer. When the mask body is worn by a wearer with the ear loops hooked over the wearer's ears, it is pulled in the vertical and horizontal directions. Pulling the mask body in the vertical and horizontal directions causes the outer layer to expand. Because the surface area of ​​the inner layer is smaller than that of the outer layer, it receives a tensile force from the outer layer in the planar direction, preventing slack. Therefore, the mask is comfortable to wear because slack in the inner layer is prevented and the inner layer is prevented from clinging to the wearer's skin.

[0023] 1. Mask The mask according to the present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the mask according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is a side view of the mask folded in the middle, FIG. 3 is an end view taken along line III-III in FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a rear view of the mask. In this specification, polar coordinates consisting of a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z, which are perpendicular to one another, are used for explanation. The first direction X is sometimes referred to as the left-right direction, the second direction Y as the up-down direction, and the third direction Z as the thickness direction. As viewed from the wearer wearing the mask, the direction and side toward the right are respectively referred to as the rightward and rightward directions in the left-right direction, the direction and side toward the left are respectively referred to as the leftward and leftward directions in the left-right direction, the direction and side toward the front are respectively referred to as the forward and frontward directions in the front-to-back direction, the direction and side toward the wearer's skin are respectively referred to as the inward and inner directions, and the opposite side is referred to as the outward and outer directions. The term "along" a certain direction does not necessarily mean that the direction is parallel to the certain direction, but also includes cases where the angle formed with the certain direction is less than 45 degrees.

[0024] The mask 10 shown in FIG. 1 is made of fabric made of synthetic resin fiber, natural fiber, or a combination thereof, and includes a mask body 12 and a pair of ear loops 14. In this specification, fabric includes woven fabric and knitted fabric. The mask body 12 covers the nose, mouth, and chin of a wearer wearing the mask 10. The mask body 12 has a flat surface extending along a first direction X and a second direction Y. The upper end of the mask body 12 has a mountain shape that convex upward in the second direction Y from the outside in the first direction X toward the center. The lower end of the mask body 12 has a V shape that convex downward in the second direction Y from the outside in the first direction X toward the center.

[0025] 2, the center of the mask body 12 in the first direction X has a shape that is convex outward in the third direction Z along the second direction Y. That is, when the mask body 12 is folded in half along the second direction Y at the center of the first direction X, a fold line L1 (hereinafter also referred to as a center fold line) along the second direction Y of the mask body 12, which is the left end in a side view, has an arched shape that is convex outward.

[0026] 3, the mask body 12 has, in order in the thickness direction, an outer layer 16, a shape-retaining portion 18, and an inner layer 20. The outer layer 16 is formed of a soft woven fabric, such as polyester fabric, and has a left outer layer 22 having a surface extending from the center to the left in the first direction X, and a right outer layer 24 having a surface extending from the center to the right in the first direction X. The left outer layer 22 and the right outer layer 24 are integrated by being sewn together at the center in the first direction X.

[0027] The inner layer 20 and the outer layer 16 are sewn together at their outer edges. The inner layer 20 is formed of a soft woven fabric, such as a polyester fabric. The surface area of ​​the inner layer 20 is preferably smaller than the surface area of ​​the outer layer 16. That is, the length in the first direction X and the length in the second direction Y of the inner layer 20 at a certain position on the mask body 12 are preferably shorter than the length in the first direction X and the length in the second direction Y of the outer layer 16 at the same position on the mask body 12.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 4, the garment has a first inner layer 26 and a second inner layer 28. The first inner layer 26 has a surface that extends from the center to both the left and right. The second inner layer 28 is connected to the lower end of the first inner layer 26 via a first switching line CL1. The first switching line CL1 is formed by sewing the first inner layer 26 and the second inner layer 28 together, and extends along the first direction X. The second inner layer 28 has an inverted triangular shape with the side that is tangent to the first switching line CL1 as its base.

[0029] The first inner layer 26 includes a left inner layer 30 having a surface extending from the center in the first direction X to the left, and a right inner layer 32 having a surface extending from the center in the first direction X to the right. The left inner layer 30 and the right inner layer 32 are connected via a second dividing line CL2. The second dividing line CL2 is formed by sewing the left inner layer 30 and the right inner layer 32 together, and extends from the center in the first direction X along the second direction Y. The left inner layer 30 and the right inner layer 32 each have a generally trapezoidal shape with the side that contacts the second dividing line CL2 as the lower base and the left and right ends of the mask body 12 in the first direction X as the upper base.

[0030] The left inner layer 30 has a left main body layer 34 and a left opening layer 36. The left opening layer 36 has a fan shape and is located to the lower right of the left main body layer 34. The left opening layer 36 and the left main body layer 34 are connected via an arc-shaped left opening line L2. The left opening line L2 is formed by sewing the left opening layer 36 and the left main body layer 34 together.

[0031] The right inner layer 32 has a right main body layer 38 and a right opening layer 40. The right opening layer 40 has a fan shape and is located to the lower left of the right main body layer 38. The right opening layer 40 and the right main body layer 38 are connected via an arc-shaped right opening line L3. The right opening line L3 is formed by sewing the right opening layer 40 and the right main body layer 39 together.

[0032] The left inner layer 30 and the right inner layer 32 are integrated at the second dividing line CL2, so that the left mouth layer 36 and the right mouth layer 40 are integrated to form an upwardly convex semicircular mouth layer 42.

[0033] The first inner layer 26 and the second inner layer 28 are integrated at their upper and lower ends by wrapping tape (not shown) around them and sewing them together.

[0034] The shape-retaining part 18 is disposed between the outer layer 16 and the inner layer 20. The shape-retaining part 18 has a material that is less flexible than the outer layer 16 and the inner layer 20. In this embodiment, the shape-retaining part 18 is fixed to the inner layer 20. That is, the shape-retaining part 18 is sewn to the outer surface of the inner layer 20.

[0035] The shape-retaining part 18 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a view of the inner layer as seen from the outside of the front. As shown in Figure 5, the shape-retaining part 18 has a main shape-retaining member 44, a central shape-retaining member 46, and an upper shape-retaining member 48. The main shape-retaining member 44 extends along the first direction X and is in contact with the lower end of the first inner layer 26. The central shape-retaining member 46 is disposed in the center of the first inner layer 26 and extends along the second direction Y. The upper shape-retaining member 48 is provided at the upper end of the first inner layer 26 and extends along the first direction X. The main shape-retaining member 44, the central shape-retaining member 46, and the upper shape-retaining member 48 each have a sheet portion and a fitting piece.

[0036] The sheet portion preferably has a mesh fabric, more specifically, a mesh structure in which synthetic resin fibers are double-russell knitted. The double-russell knitting of the sheet portion provides a high volume, resulting in excellent breathability and cushioning. The sheet portion is disposed on the outer surface of the inner layer 20 and sewn to the inner layer 20. When viewed from the third direction Z, the sheet portion is preferably substantially I-shaped and not positioned in a position corresponding to the wearer's cheeks.

[0037] The fitting piece is a strip-shaped member made of thermoplastic resin or metal that is capable of plastic deformation. The fitting piece is disposed between the sheet portion and the outer layer 16. That is, the fitting piece is provided on the surface of the sheet portion opposite the side that contacts the inner layer 20 of the sheet portion.

[0038] The main shape-retaining member 44 has a first sheet portion 50 as a sheet portion and a first fitting piece 52 as a fitting piece. The first sheet portion 50 has a shape corresponding to the mouth layer 42. That is, the first sheet portion 50 has a semicircular shape that is convex upward. The first sheet portion 50 is sewn to the inner layer 20 by a first dividing line CL1, a second dividing line CL2, a left mouth base line L2, and a right mouth base line L3. The first fitting piece 52 extends along the first direction X and is sewn to the first sheet portion 50 at the first dividing line CL1. The length of the first fitting piece 52 in the first direction X is preferably longer than the left-right length of the wearer's lips.

[0039] The central shape-retaining member 46 includes a second sheet portion 54 and a second fitting piece 56. The second sheet portion 54 is sewn to the inner layer 20 along a second dividing line CL2. The second sheet portion 54 is linear and extends in the second direction Y, with its lower end connected to the upper end of the first sheet portion 50. The second fitting piece 56 extends in the second direction Y and is sewn to the second sheet portion 54 along the second dividing line CL2. As shown in FIG. 3 , the second sheet portion 54 is divided into left and right halves, which are folded back along the second direction Y at the center of the first direction X together with the left inner layer 30 and the right inner layer 32. The left and right inner layers 30 and 32 are sewn together along the overlapping seam. The second fitting piece 56 is sewn to the seam. The seam is positioned so as to protrude outward in the third direction Z, i.e., toward the outer layer 16. The second fitting piece 56 is formed to extend from below the tip of the wearer's nose toward the upper end of the mask body 12. That is, the lower end of the second fitting piece 56 is formed to protrude below the tip of the wearer's nose. The upper end of the second fitting piece 56 preferably terminates below the upper end of the inner layer 20.

[0040] The upper shape-retaining member 48 (FIG. 5) has a third sheet portion 58 as a sheet portion and a third fitting piece 60 as a fitting piece. The third sheet portion 58 extends along the first direction X and is connected at its lower central end to the upper end of the second sheet portion 54. The third sheet portion 58 is connected to the upper end of the inner layer 20 via an upper seam L4. The upper seam L4 sews the third sheet and the inner layer 20 together. The third fitting piece 60 extends from the center of the mask body 12 to both the left and right sides and is sewn to the third sheet portion 58 at the upper seam L4. The third fitting piece 60 is separated into left and right pieces at the center of the mask body 12. That is, the third fitting piece 60 has a third left fitting piece 60L and a third right fitting piece 60R. The central ends of the third left fitting piece 60L and the third right fitting piece 60R are spaced apart by a predetermined distance. Furthermore, the upper end of the second fitting piece 56 is spaced apart by a predetermined length from the third left fitting piece 60L and the third right fitting piece 60R.

[0041] A pair of ear loops 14 (FIG. 1) are connected to both ends of the mask body 12 in the first direction X. Each of the pair of ear loops 14 is formed from a single piece of stretchable unfinished fabric. The unfinished fabric has unfinished, cut edges. The pair of ear loops 14 has a teardrop-shaped through hole 62. The through hole 62 has a pointed tip 64 and a spherical base end 66. The tip 64 of the through hole 62 is located at the upper end of the mask body 12.

[0042] 2. Action and Effects The operation and effect of the mask 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating the mask 10 when worn. For ease of explanation, FIG. 6 illustrates the mask 10 as viewed from the outside to the inside. As shown in FIG. 6, the mask 10 according to this embodiment is worn by a wearer P by arranging the upper end of the mask main body 12 on the upper side and the lower end on the lower side, with the inner layer 20 facing the wearer P's skin, and hooking the pair of ear loops 14 onto the wearer P's ears, respectively. The mask 10 is fixed to the face of the wearer P with the mask main body 12 positioned to cover the wearer P's nose and mouth. That is, when worn, the upper end of the mask main body 12 at the center in the first direction X is positioned near the wearer's nasal bone P1, and the lower end is positioned below the wearer's lower jaw P2. At least a portion of the main shape retaining member 44 is positioned below the wearer P's lips and above the tip of the lower jaw P2. The center of the mask body 12 in the first direction X has a shape that is convex outward along the second direction Y, so that it easily fits the face of the wearer P in the range from the nasal bone P1 to the lower jaw P2.

[0043] The outer layer 16 is integrated by sewing the left outer layer 22 and the right outer layer 24 together at the center in the first direction X. The inner layer 20 is sewn together the left inner layer 30 and the right inner layer 32 at a second dividing line CL2 at the center in the first direction X. That is, since the center fold line L1 overlaps with the second dividing line CL2, the mask body 12 can be easily folded along the center fold line L1 so as to be convex outward, and therefore can easily fit the face of the wearer P.

[0044] The upper shape-retaining member 48, central shape-retaining member 46, and main shape-retaining member 44 provided on the mask 10 are placed at predetermined positions on the face of the wearer P. That is, the upper shape-retaining member 48 extends outward from the nasal bone P1 in the first direction X. The central shape-retaining member 46 extends in the second direction Y from the nasal bone P1, passing through the bridge of the nose, to the underside of the nasal tip P3. The main shape-retaining member 44 extends in the first direction X around the mouth.

[0045] The mask 10 forms a sufficient space S between the mouth of the wearer P and the mask body 12 by the main shape retaining member 44, preventing the inner layer 20 from coming into contact with the mouth of the wearer P. When the wearer P opens his / her mouth, the lower end of the mask body 12 is pulled downward by the chin of the wearer P, and the upper end of the mask body 12 catches on the nose of the wearer P, causing a pulling force to act on the mask body 12 in the second direction Y. This force causes the mask body 12 to deform from a shape that is convex outward along the second direction Y toward a flat shape. As a result, the main shape retaining member 44 moves downward while remaining positioned between the lips and chin of the wearer P, maintaining the space S in the first direction X around the mouth of the wearer P.

[0046] The shape-retaining portion 18 is disposed between the outer layer 16 and the inner layer 20, and is therefore not visible from the outside, and does not come into direct contact with the skin of the wearer P. Therefore, the mask 10 has a high degree of freedom in design, and can suppress deterioration in wearing comfort.

[0047] In the present embodiment, the main shape-retaining member 44 is sewn to the inner layer 20, thereby suppressing deformation in the thickness direction of the inner layer 20. For example, even when the wearer P takes a deep breath, the main shape-retaining member 44 suppresses deformation of the inner layer 20 in the thickness direction due to breath inhaled into the mouth of the wearer P. Therefore, even when the wearer P takes a deep breath while playing sports, the mask 10 forms a space S between the mouth of the wearer P and the mask body 12, and can suppress contact of the inner layer 20 with the mouth of the wearer P.

[0048] Because the lower end of the central shape-retaining member 46 is positioned below the wearer P's nasal tip P3, the central shape-retaining member 46 slopes forward in the thickness direction from the nasal bone P1 toward the nasal tip P3 in the second direction Y and reaches its maximum height below the nasal tip P3, so that the height of the mask body 12 below the nasal tip P3 is maintained at the height of the nasal tip P3. The height of the mask body 12 here refers to the length extending outward in the third direction from the surface of the wearer P's skin. In other words, the mask body 12 is connected to the space S in the first direction X formed by the main shape-retaining member 44 from below the nasal tip P3, where the height of the nasal tip P3 is maintained by the central shape-retaining member. Therefore, the mask 10 easily forms a space S between the wearer P's mouth and the mask body 12 by the main shape-retaining member 44 and the central shape-retaining member 46.

[0049] Because the upper shape-retaining member 48 extends in the first direction X, it is easy to form a shape that follows the nasal bone P1 and the cheeks, i.e., a curved shape that convex inward in the third direction Z, thereby preventing the mask body 12 from slipping down. Therefore, the mask 10 prevents the space S between the mouth of the wearer P and the mask body 12, which is formed by the main shape-retaining member 44, from shifting position.

[0050] The shape-retaining portion 18 preferably has a double-russell knitted sheet portion. The sheet portion has a mesh structure and is bulky, so it is breathable and more reliably forms a space S between the skin of the wearer P and the mask body 12. Therefore, the mask 10 prevents air from being trapped between the mask body 12 and the mouth of the wearer P.

[0051] The double raschel-knitted sheet portion has a first sheet portion 50 that is I-shaped, i.e., has a shape corresponding to the mouth layer 42, a second sheet portion 54 that is linear and extends along the second direction Y and has its lower end connected to the upper end of the first sheet portion 50, and a third sheet portion 58 that is connected to the upper end of the inner layer 20 via an upper end seam L4, so that the sheet portions are not placed over the cheeks of the wearer P. Therefore, with the mask 10, the double raschel-knitted sheet portion does not overlap the cheeks of the wearer P, reducing the discomfort that the wearer P feels when touching the thick fabric.

[0052] The shape-retaining portion 18 preferably has a plastically deformable fitting piece. Because the fitting piece is plastically deformable, it can be deformed to fit the shape and position of the nose, mouth, and chin of the wearer P and retain the deformed shape.

[0053] The shape-retaining portion 18 has a sheet portion and a fitting piece, and the fitting piece maintains the space S formed by the sheet portion between the skin of the wearer P and the mask body 12. Therefore, the mask 10 can maintain the space S formed between the mask body 12 and the mouth of the wearer P for a long period of time.

[0054] The fitting pieces are sewn to the outer surface of the sheet member in the thickness direction, thereby preventing them from coming into contact with the skin of the wearer P. Furthermore, the sheet portion has a bulky double raschel knit, which provides excellent cushioning. Therefore, the mask 10 has the sheet portion interposed between the skin of the wearer P and the fitting pieces, preventing the fitting pieces from impairing the feel of the mask against the skin.

[0055] The main shape-retaining member 44 has the first fitting pieces 52 extending along the first direction X sewn to the first dividing line CL1, thereby retaining the shape of the mask body 12 along the first dividing line CL1. The first dividing line CL1 sews the first inner layer 26 and the second inner layer 28 together, and the first sheet portion 50 and the first fitting pieces 52 are sewn to the first dividing line CL1, thereby more reliably suppressing deformation of the inner layer 20 in the thickness direction. Therefore, the mask 10 easily retains the space S formed between the nose and mouth of the wearer P.

[0056] The central shape-retaining member 46 maintains the shape of the mask body 12 along the second dividing line CL2 by having the second fitting pieces 56 extending along the second direction Y sewn to the second dividing line CL2. The second fitting pieces 56 are positioned below the wearer P's nasal tip P3, so the height of the mask body 12 is more reliably maintained up to the bottom of the nasal tip P3. That is, the position of the mask body 12 below the nasal tip P3 is reliably maintained by the second fitting pieces 56, so that the mask body 12 is connected to the space S in the first direction X formed by the main shape-retaining member 44, thereby more easily maintaining the space S formed between the wearer P's nose and mouth.

[0057] The upper shape-retaining member 48 has a third left fitting piece 60L and a third right fitting piece 60R that are separated from each other on the left and right sides (FIG. 5), so the third fitting piece 60 does not overlap the bridge of the wearer P's nose. That is, the mask body 12 is thin at the portion that overlaps the bridge of the nose, so it easily fits closely to the bridge of the nose of the wearer P. Furthermore, because the third fitting piece 60 of the mask 10 does not overlap the bridge of the wearer P's nose, discomfort caused by a stiff fitting piece can be reduced.

[0058] The upper end of the second fitting piece 56 is separated from the central end of the third left fitting piece 60L and the third right fitting piece 60R (FIG. 5), so the thickness of the upper end portion of the center of the mask body 12 is thin. Therefore, the mask 10 allows the mask body 12 to easily fit tightly against the bridge of the wearer P's nose.

[0059] The outer layer 16 and the inner layer 20 are sewn together at their outer edges, and because the surface area of ​​the inner layer 20 is smaller than that of the outer layer 16, the inner layer 20 is more likely to receive tensile force in the planar direction from the outer layer 16, which prevents slack. Therefore, in the mask 10, slack in the inner layer 20 is prevented, and the inner layer 20 is prevented from clinging to the skin of the wearer P.

[0060] The first inner layer 26 has a mouth layer 42 formed by integrating the left mouth layer 36 and the right mouth layer 40. The mouth layer 42 has an upwardly convex semicircular shape, and its lower end is sewn to the main shape retaining member 44 by the first switching line CL1 and its upper end is sewn to the main shape retaining member 44 by the left mouth base line L2 and the right mouth base line L3. Therefore, the upper end of the mouth layer 42 receives an outward force in the thickness direction from the central shape retaining member 46, and the lower end receives an outward force in the left-right direction from the main shape retaining member 44. As a result, the mouth layer 42 tends to tilt forward from the lower end to the upper end and to protrude outward in the third direction Z. Therefore, the mask 10, having the mouth layer 42, tends to form a space S around the mouth of the wearer P.

[0061] The ear loops 14 are made of stretchy, unfinished fabric. Each through-hole 62, which fits over the wearer P's ear, is teardrop-shaped, with a pointed tip 64 and a spherical base 66. When worn by the wearer P, a tensile force is applied to the ear loops 14 between the wearer P's ear and the mask body 12. Because the tip 64 of the through-hole 62 has a pointed shape, stress caused by this tensile force is concentrated on the tip 64. As the stress is concentrated on the tip 64, the ear loops 14 deform around the tip 64 of the through-hole 62. Because the tip 64 of the through-hole 62 is located at the upper end of the mask body 12, the ear loops 14 deform upward. Therefore, the ear loops 14 hook onto the wearer P's earlobe, making the mask 10 less likely to come off.

[0062] 3. Variations The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the present invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the shape-retaining portion has a sheet portion and a fitting piece, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the effects of the present invention can be obtained by having at least one of a sheet portion and a fitting piece.

[0063] In the above embodiment, the shape-retaining portion has been described as having a main shape-retaining member, a central shape-retaining member, and an upper shape-retaining member, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the shape-retaining portion may have at least the main shape-retaining member. [Explanation of symbols]

[0064] 10 Mask 12 Mask body 14 Ear hook 16 Outer layer 18 Shape retention part 20 inner layer 26 First Inner Layer 28 Second Inner Layer 30 Left inner layer 32 Right inner layer 44 Main shape-retaining member (shape-retaining part) 46 Central shape-retaining member (shape-retaining part) 48 Upper shape retention member (shape retention part) 50 First seat section (seat section) 52 First fitting piece 54 Second seat section (seat section) 56 Second fitting piece 58 Third seat section (seat section) 60 Third Fit Piece CL1 First switching line CL2 Second switching line P wearer P1 nasal bone P2 lower jaw P3 nasal tip S space X 1st direction (left / right direction) Y 2nd direction (vertical direction) Z 3rd direction (thickness direction)

Claims

1. a mask body having a left-right direction, a top-bottom direction, and a thickness direction, and covering the nose, mouth, and chin of a wearer; ear loops provided on both sides of the mask body in the left-right direction and adapted to be hung on the wearer's ears; The mask body includes: The outer layer, the shape-retaining portion, and the inner layer are arranged in this order in the thickness direction, The center in the left-right direction has a shape that is convex from the inner layer toward the outer layer along the up-down direction, the shape-retaining portion has a main shape-retaining member extending along the left-right direction, At least a portion of the main shape-retaining member is positioned below the wearer's lips and above the tip of the lower jaw, The shape-retaining portion has a double raschel knitted sheet portion, The mask, wherein the sheet portion has an I-shape when viewed in the thickness direction.

2. a mask body having a left-right direction, a top-bottom direction, and a thickness direction, and covering the nose, mouth, and chin of a wearer; ear loops provided on both sides of the mask body in the left-right direction and adapted to be hung on the wearer's ears; The mask body includes: The outer layer, the shape-retaining portion, and the inner layer are arranged in this order in the thickness direction, The center in the left-right direction has a shape that is convex from the inner layer toward the outer layer along the up-down direction, the shape-retaining portion has a main shape-retaining member extending along the left-right direction, At least a portion of the main shape-retaining member is positioned below the wearer's lips and above the tip of the lower jaw, The mask wherein the main shape-retaining member has a double-raschel knitted sheet portion and a plastically deformable fitting piece.

3. a mask body having a left-right direction, a top-bottom direction, and a thickness direction, and covering the nose, mouth, and chin of a wearer; ear loops provided on both sides of the mask body in the left-right direction and adapted to be hung on the wearer's ears; The mask body includes: The outer layer, the shape-retaining portion, and the inner layer are arranged in this order in the thickness direction, The center in the left-right direction has a shape that is convex from the inner layer toward the outer layer along the up-down direction, the shape-retaining portion has a main shape-retaining member extending along the left-right direction, At least a portion of the main shape-retaining member is positioned below the wearer's lips and above the tip of the lower jaw, The inner layer is A first inner layer having surfaces extending from the center to both the left and right sides; a second inner layer sewn to the lower end of the first inner layer, the main shape-retaining member has a first fitting piece that extends along the left-right direction and is capable of plastic deformation; The mask, wherein the first fitting piece is sewn to a first seam line where the first inner layer and the second inner layer are sewn together.

4. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the main shape-retaining member is sewn to the inner layer.

5. The shape-retaining part further includes a central shape-retaining member disposed at the center of the mask body, The mask according to claim 2, wherein the central shape-retaining member extends in the up-down direction from below the tip of the wearer's nose toward an upper end of the mask body.

6. The shape-retaining part further includes a central shape-retaining member disposed at the center of the mask body, The mask according to claim 3 , wherein the central shape-retaining member extends in the up-down direction from below the tip of the wearer's nose toward an upper end of the mask body.

7. 4. The mask according to claim 2, wherein the shape-retaining part further includes an upper shape-retaining member provided at an upper end of the mask body and extending along the left-right direction.

8. The mask according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the shape-retaining portion has a fitting piece that is plastically deformable.

9. The mask according to claim 2 , wherein the fitting piece is provided between the outer layer and the sheet portion.

10. The first inner layer is a left inner layer having a surface extending from the center to the left; a right inner layer having a surface extending from the center to the right, the central shape-retaining member has a second fitting piece that extends along the up-down direction and is capable of plastic deformation; The mask according to claim 6, wherein the second fitting piece is sewn to a second seam line where the left inner layer and the right inner layer are sewn together.

11. the upper shape-retaining member has a third fitting piece that is plastically deformable and extends from the center of the mask body to both the left and right sides, The mask according to claim 7, wherein the third fitting piece is separated into left and right portions at the center of the mask body.

12. The shape-retaining part further includes a central shape-retaining member disposed at the center of the mask body and extending along the up-down direction, the central shape-retaining member extends in the up-down direction from below the tip of the wearer's nose toward an upper end of the mask body, the central shape-retaining member has a second fitting piece that extends along the up-down direction and is capable of plastic deformation; 12. The mask of claim 11, wherein an upper end of the second fitting piece is separate from the third fitting piece.

13. The mask body includes: The outer layer and the inner layer are sewn together at their outer edges, The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the surface area of ​​the inner layer is smaller than the surface area of ​​the outer layer.

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