Face covering system

Abstract

Described herein are face mask and / or face covering support systems for various masks and / or other face coverings. The systems are designed to redirect the straps and / or bands of the face covering or face mask to prevent them from hitting or causing pain to the ears of a user of the face covering and to prevent the face mask from obstructing the user's mouth / nose. The systems may be used with a dedicated face mask or may be retrofitted to an existing face mask. The systems further allow the face mask to be loosened without having to be completely removed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Claims of Priority This application claims the priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 040,852, filed on June 18, 2020, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 157,341, filed on March 5, 2021, the entire contents of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The field of the present invention and its embodiments relate to face mask and / or face cover support systems for various face masks and / or other face covers. In particular, the field of the present invention and its embodiments relate to systems that redirect the straps and / or bands of a face cover to prevent them from hitting or causing pain to the ears of the user of the face cover and to prevent the mask from covering the user's mouth / nose.

Background Art

[0003] Wearing a mask is one of the most effective protective means against bacteria, viruses, airborne pathogens, dust, etc. Conventional masks include a mask body and two loop-shaped elastic straps attached to two opposing ends of the mask body. In use, the straps are worn over and around the user's ears, and the mask body is placed over the user's mouth and nose to isolate harmful substances such as dust and bacteria from the user's mouth and nose and prevent the harmful substances from touching and entering the user's mouth and nose.

[0004] However, since each strap has a fixed size, it is not possible to adjust the size of each strap to fit various user sizes, and the mask body cannot be accurately and closely positioned over the user's mouth and nose, thereby reducing the mask's sealing effect. The straps also rub against the user's ears, causing discomfort after only short-term wear. Furthermore, the mask body has poor breathability and permeability, making it difficult for the user to breathe smoothly when wearing the mask, which easily causes discomfort. Therefore, there is a need for a mask that overcomes and surpasses these shortcomings. The present invention and its embodiments satisfy and surpass these objectives.

[0005] Review of related technologies: International Publication No. 2018 / 210319 relates to a strap fastening device, the strap fastening device comprising a fixed base having a body, a support pivotably connected to the body, and a rotating frame having a fixed suspension portion provided on the pivot end of the support, the rotating frame comprising a rotating frame that can be rotated or fixed relative to the fixed base, and a distance adjustment mechanism disposed on the support and provided with a movable suspension portion. The movable suspension portion can be displaced linearly along the longitudinal direction of the support and arranged to adjust the distance between the movable suspension portion and the fixed suspension portion. In this way, the invention makes it more comfortable to wear a breathing mask without putting pressure on the ears and head, thereby achieving zero load.

[0006] International Publication No. 2016 / 047579 relates to a sanitary mask that can be worn without straining the ears. The sanitary mask comprises a main body made of a flexible material that covers at least the wearer from the tip of the nose to the chin, and a mask attachment portion that connects the right and left edges of the main body. The mask attachment portion further comprises a pair of support members fixed to the left and right side edges of the main body, respectively, and a rear attachment portion that passes below both of the wearer's ears and surrounds the back of the wearer's neck. The right support portion consists of a pair of right support members that connect two right anchor locations on the main body to a single right attachment location further forward than the wearer's right ear to which the rear attachment portion is attached. The left support portion consists of a pair of left support members that connect two left anchor locations on the main body to a single left attachment location further forward than the wearer's left ear to which the rear attachment portion is attached.

[0007] Korean Patent No. 1020100121659 relates to a mask equipped with a latch that can maintain a latched fastening cord and suppress offset when the mask is worn. The latch of the mask is in the form of a thin rectangular sheet and includes a first latch portion for detachably latching one fastening cord of the mask and a second latch portion located on the second end edge side of the first latch portion and having an insertion hole for pre-inserting the other fastening cord of the mask. The first latch portion has a guide channel extending from a first transverse edge and a first latch hole connected to the guide channel, and the second latch portion has a second latch hole communicating with the insertion through hole and having a smaller outer diameter, and the first and second latch holes are oriented in directions opposite to each other in the transverse direction.

[0008] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013252339 relates to a mask fastener that eliminates ear pain caused by mask straps, especially during prolonged use. The mask fastener is described and includes at least two fastening parts that enable fastening of mask straps, each having straps on both sides of the main body that can be placed over the user's ears by an elastic material such as a rubber band. As a result, no load is placed on the ears, and therefore ear pain does not occur.

[0009] Therefore, as described above, various systems and methodologies for sanitary masks are known in the art. However, their structures and means of operation differ substantially from those of this disclosure. Other inventions fail to solve all the problems taught in this disclosure. At least one embodiment of the present invention is shown in the following drawings and will be described in more detail herein. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 210319 Brochure [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2016 / 047579 Brochure [Patent Document 3] Korean Patent No. 1020100121659 Specification [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013252339 [Overview of the Initiative]

[0011] The present invention and its embodiments teach and describe a face covering system comprising at least a bracket, a mask frame, and a mask body. This face covering system eliminates the need for the elastic band to be supported by the wearer's ears. Instead, the posterior neck region is utilized by a lanyard attached to the bracket, and the elastic band is also attached to the bracket. In yet another embodiment, the elastic band may be completely removed, and the face covering system alone may be used to support the position of the mask body.

[0012] Typically, embodiments of the present invention may comprise any of the components of a bracket, a tab element, a fastening strap, a mask body, a mask frame, and a fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the bracket is directly connected to the mask or face cover to allow the bracket to be directly attached to the mask or face cover. In other embodiments, the bracket is coupled to the edge of the mask body or to the mask body itself.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, there is a fastening strap or lanyard attached to the bracket, which replaces the need to place the elastic banding of an existing face cover around the user's head or ears. Instead, the elastic banding is connected to a portion of the bracket. In yet another embodiment, the elastic banding is woven to pass through the bracket, and a portion of the elastic banding is then used to connect to a lanyard. In yet another embodiment, a support element such as the tab described above is used as an interface between the fastening strap or lanyard and the bracket. Each of the above elements can be used alone or in any combination with each other.

[0014] The bracket preferably has several mounting positions that allow for various configurations for existing masks and / or face covers. The positioning and orientation of the structure allow for the arrangements described herein. Different configurations of these structures may exist to support specific needs or use cases, as shown in the figures and further described herein. Furthermore, this face cover system allows for selective loosening and operation of the face cover in a different manner without completely removing the face cover. The system prevents interference with the user's ears as well as with hearing aids, eyeglasses, or any combination thereof.

[0015] In a first embodiment of the present invention, there exists a face covering system comprising: a mask body comprising a first bracket having a plurality of first openings and a second bracket having a plurality of second openings; a mask body comprising at least one layer of fiber, further having a first edge and a second edge, the first bracket being coupled to the first edge and the second bracket being coupled to the second edge; a mask skeleton coupled to the mask body, being coupled to at least one layer of fiber; and a fastening strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the fastening strap being configured to be coupled to the first bracket and the second end of the fastening strap being configured to be coupled to the second bracket.

[0016] In another embodiment of the present invention, there exists a face covering system comprising: a mask body comprising a first bracket having a plurality of first openings and a second bracket having a plurality of second openings; a mask body comprising at least one layer of fiber, further having a first edge and a second edge, the first bracket being coupled to the first edge and the second bracket being coupled to the second edge; a mask skeleton coupled to the mask body, being coupled to at least one layer of fiber; and a fastening strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the fastening strap being configured to be coupled to the first bracket and the second end of the fastening strap being configured to be coupled to the second bracket, the first end and the second end each having two attachment points configured to be coupled to the mask skeleton.

[0017] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, there exists a face covering system comprising: a mask body comprising a first bracket having a plurality of first openings and at least one first hook and a second bracket having a plurality of second openings and at least one second hook, and a mask body comprising at least one layer of fiber, further having a first edge and a second edge, the first bracket being coupled to the first edge and the second bracket being coupled to the second edge, and the mask body comprising a sealing strip positioned along the upper edge of the mask body; a mask skeleton coupled to the mask body comprising a mask skeleton having a plurality of openings and being coupled to at least one layer of fiber of the mask body; and a fastening strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the fastening strap being configured to be coupled to the first bracket and the second end of the fastening strap being configured to be coupled to the second bracket. The object of the present invention is to provide a face covering system that can be used with substantially any mask.

[0018] The objective of this invention is to provide a lightweight and easy-to-use face covering system.

[0019] The object of the present invention is to provide a face covering system that allows the straps of a mask to be reoriented or removed, thereby preventing the straps from colliding with the user, particularly the user's ears.

[0020] The object of the present invention is to provide a face covering system that prevents or limits fogging of eyeglasses.

[0021] The object of the present invention is to provide a face covering system that can be used in several different configurations depending on the user's preference and the mask used within the system.

[0022] The object of the present invention is to provide a face covering system that positions the mask body so as not to obstruct the user's mouth and / or nose.

[0023] An object of the present invention is to provide a face covering system that enables loosening without completely removing the mask.

[0024] An object of the present invention is to provide a face covering system that protects a user from dust, pathogens, etc. and is comfortable to wear for a long time.

[0025] An object of the present invention is to provide a face covering system that can be retrofitted to an existing mask.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] The (a) top view, (b) side view, and (c) front view of the first mask bracket of one embodiment of the present application are shown. [Figure 2] The (a) top view, (b) side view, and (c) front view of the second mask bracket of one embodiment of the present application are shown. [Figure 3] The (a) top view, (b) side view, and (c) front view of the third mask bracket of one embodiment of the present application are shown. [Figure 4] The (a) top view, (b) side view, and (c) front view of the fourth mask bracket of one embodiment of the present application are shown. [Figure 5] It is a diagram of a profile of a user wearing a mask according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 6] It is a diagram of a profile of a user wearing a mask according to the second embodiment of the present application. [Figure 7] It is a diagram of a profile of a user wearing a mask according to the third embodiment of the present application. [Figure 8] It is a diagram of a profile of a user wearing a mask according to the fourth embodiment of the present application. [Figure 9] It is a diagram of a profile of a user wearing a mask according to the fifth embodiment of the present application. [Figure 10]This is a diagram showing the profile of a user wearing a mask according to the sixth embodiment of this application. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing the profile of a user wearing a mask according to the seventh embodiment of this application. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing the profile of a user wearing a mask according to the eighth embodiment of this application. [Figure 13a] This is a diagram of the profile of a mask according to one embodiment of the present application, in which the mask bracket is not attached and the attachment point is on the edge of the mask. [Figure 13b] This is a diagram showing the profile of a mask according to one embodiment of the present application, with a mask bracket attached. [Figure 13c] This is a diagram of the profile of a mask according to one embodiment of the present application, in which the mask bracket is not attached and the attachment point is on the body of the mask. [Figure 13d] This is a diagram of the profile of a mask according to one embodiment of the present application, in which a mask bracket is attached and the attachment point is on the body of the mask. [Figure 14] This is an exploded view of the components of a mask-plus-bracket system according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 15] This is an exploded view of the components of a mask-plus-bracket system according to an alternative embodiment of this application. [Figure 16] This is a side cross-sectional view of a component of the mask-plus-bracket system according to this application. [Figure 17a] This is a diagram of a first embodiment of a mask skeleton according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 17b] This is a diagram of a second embodiment of a mask skeleton according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 17c] This is a diagram of a third embodiment of a mask skeleton according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 18a] This figure shows an alternative mask bracket according to the present application. [Figure 18b] This figure shows the second alternative mask bracket according to this application. [Figure 19a]This is a diagram of a double lanyard attachment shown attached to the mask frame of this application. [Figure 19b] This is a diagram of a double lanyard attachment device, shown attached to the mask frame of this application, which is worn by the user. [Figure 20a] This is a diagram of a double clip, a single lanyard attachment, shown attached to the mask frame of this application. [Figure 20b] This figure shows a double clip, a single lanyard attachment, attached to the mask frame of the present application, which is worn by the user. [Figure 21a] This is a front view of a user wearing another embodiment of the present application, which has a lip-reading window. [Figure 21b] This is a side view of a user wearing the embodiment shown in Figure 21a of this application. [Figure 21c] This is a diagram of a mask skeleton that is consistent with the embodiment shown in Figure 21a of this application. [Figure 21d] This is an enlarged view of inset A shown in Figure 21c of this application. [Figure 22a] This is a side view of an embodiment of the present application having a lip reading window. [Figure 22b] This is a magnified view of the baffle located in the compression position. [Figure 22c] This is a magnified view of the baffle in the uncompressed position. [Figure 23] This is an exploded view of one embodiment of the present application having a lip reading window. [Figure 24] This is a side view of one embodiment of the present application, which has a lip-reading window attached to the user's face. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be referred to in detail. Such embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not limited thereto. In fact, those skilled in the art will understand, by reading this specification and looking at the drawings, that various modifications and variations can be made.

[0029] When introducing elements of this disclosure or its embodiments, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that there are one or more elements. Similarly, the adjective “another,” when used to introduce elements, is intended to mean one or more elements. The terms “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive so that there may be additional elements other than those listed.

[0030] Referring here to Figures 1 to 4, various brackets 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d according to embodiments of this application are shown. Preferably, the system uses two brackets, which may be the same as or different from the other brackets used in the system, regardless of the embodiment. The configuration may depend on user comfort or other needs.

[0031] Each of the brackets 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d is preferably formed from a polymer selected to match its flexibility and elasticity. The selected polymer may include, but is not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), and polycarbonate (PC), or any combination thereof. In further embodiments, the brackets may be formed from composites such as fiber-reinforced plastics, metal composites, carbon fibers, and Kevlar®, or from metals such as lightweight metals such as aluminum and other pure metals, as well as various alloys (preferably polymer-coated metals).

[0032] Each bracket 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d is preferably a one-piece structure formed from a single structure. The illustrated brackets 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d may have a fixed edge portion 112 that can be used to bond the brackets 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d to the mask body 114 (see at least Figures 7-8) (by mechanical or chemical means). Each bracket 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d typically has a plurality of openings 102. In at least two embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2, there may be at least one hook 104 positioned across the entire bracket body. Each hook 104 may be formed from at least a neck portion 106 and a retaining bar 110. The arrangement of the openings 102 and hooks 104 of the bracket may vary as needed depending on the user or mask from which the bracket is used.

[0033] In at least two embodiments, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, there may be a protruding portion 108. The protruding portion or protruding portion 108 projects outward from the central portion of the bracket. This protruding portion 108 may have several openings 102 on it, and in some embodiments, may have one or more hooks 108 on it. Each bracket 100c, 100d is designed to be attached to a mask, thereby eliminating the need for elastic straps of the mask that are fitted around the user's ears.

[0034] Alternative forms of the bracket are shown in Figures 17 and 18 as a first fixing mechanism 144a and a second fixing mechanism 144b, where the fixing mechanism uses a “clamping” motion to fix the position of the mask. Each bracket has multiple openings that allow the clips of the fastening straps 116 to be secured to it. Each fixing mechanism further has a first position and a second position. The clamping mechanism 146 slides within either the first fixing mechanism 144a or the second fixing mechanism 144b. When the clamping mechanism 146 slides within the fixing mechanisms 144a, 144b, the form factor of the fixing mechanisms 144a, 144b causes the clamping mechanism 146 to be close to either the mask body 114 as shown in Figure 17, or to the rod 150 attached to the mask body 114 as shown in Figures 18a-18b.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, the mask may have a rod 150 along the length of the first and second edges of the mask, as noted earlier. The rod 150 may generally be of any size / shape, and the rod may be formed from substantially any suitable material and bonded to the mask body 114. The fastening mechanism may be specifically molded to receive the rod and may have a shape complementary to the rod to ensure a firm fit.

[0036] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, when brackets 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d are attached to the mask body 114, they appear as shown in Figures 5 to 12. Herein, there are various coupling configurations shown and further described herein.

[0037] For example, in Figure 5, there is a first method in which an optional tab 118 is used to facilitate connection at the interface between the mask's elastic straps and brackets 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d. The fastening strap 116 is then directly attached to brackets 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d. In Figure 6, there is an alternative attachment method in which the mask's elastic straps are woven through the attachment points (openings 102 and hooks 108) of brackets 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d, pulled taut, and further attached to the fastening strap 116.

[0038] The tab connection methods are further illustrated in Figures 13a to 13d, where the mask body 114 is shown with and without the attached bracket. Figure 13a shows the mask body 114 with the tabs 118 joined. In this embodiment, the tabs 118 are formed of a loop of material that can form a fully enclosed loop or have a break in part of the loop. In at least one embodiment, the tabs 118 take the form of a larger rectangular piece of material having an opening as shown in Figure 5, where the opening is fitted around a hook 104 as described herein. More generally, the tabs 118 can be attached via sewing into the mask body 114 and the bracket. The configuration of such a system is shown in the user profile of Figure 5.

[0039] As shown in Figure 13b, the bracket is coupled to the mask body 114 along the fixed edge 112 of the bracket. The bracket may be coupled via mechanical or chemical (or other) means such as stitching 124 or adhesive (not shown). Tabs 118 may be further coupled to the mask body 114 by the same or similar means. The tabs 118 are configured to engage with the hooks 104 of the bracket. Each tab 118 fits around the retaining bar 110 and sits around the neck portion 106 of the hook 104. This configuration allows for additional support of the mask by the bracket. This further allows for the selective positioning of the tabs 118 to change the fit of the mask to the user.

[0040] In Figures 13c and 13d, the bracket is similar, but attached further inward to the mask body 114. This configuration is further shown in Figures 8 and 9. These are side profiles of a user with the bracket attached to the inner part of the mask body 114. However, in each figure, the bracket is attached in a different shape. In Figure 8, the bracket is shown with a downward projection 108 facing the bottom of the mask. This projection 108 is further shown coupled to the fastening strap 116. By positioning the bracket in this configuration, it becomes possible to attach the fastening strap 116 to a "lower position" on the user's neck. In Figure 9, the bracket is rotated 180° around the vertical axis, thereby bringing the projection 108 closer to the top of the mask. This makes it possible to attach the fastening strap 116 to a "higher position" on the user's neck. The point where the fastening strap 116 is attached may be a matter of user preference, or it may be based on the user's work, visibility needs, etc.

[0041] Other embodiments of the bracket shown herein, particularly in Figures 3 and 4, result in the same principle as described above and shown in Figures 10 to 12.

[0042] As noted earlier and as shown in Figure 6, the mask's existing elastic straps can engage with a bracket to redirect the elastic straps so that they do not need to be positioned around the user's ears. Here, the existing elastic straps are "woven" through at least one, preferably two or more, openings 102 within the bracket. Weaving the elastic straps through the openings 102s puts tension on the elastic straps, thereby fixing the straps in place. As shown, a portion of the straps can be pulled away from the bracket. The clips of the fastening strap 116 are then coupled to the loops formed from the existing elastic straps, thereby attaching the mask to the user and directing the existing elastic straps downwards from the user's ears. The fastening strap 116 is configured to be positioned around the user's neck.

[0043] Furthermore, the fastening strap 116 can typically take the form of a known "lanyard," with a pressable clip at each end of the length of the material forming the lanyard. However, in other embodiments, the fastening strap 116 may include a semi-rigid frame, thereby allowing the fastening strap 116 to be molded and retain its shape until it is manipulated by the user in a different form. The fastening strap 116 may have segments that can be individually manipulated and molded to fit the fastening strap 116, providing a custom shape based on user needs and other variables.

[0044] As shown in Figures 14 to 17c, a complete face covering system according to an embodiment of the present invention exists. Figure 14 shows an exploded view of a first embodiment of the face covering system. Here, there is an outer layer 126, a filter layer 128, a mask frame 130, a bracket 100, an inner layer 134, a fastening strap 116, an inner layer bracket pocket 135, an inner layer strip pocket 140, a central opening 138, and a positioning strip 122.

[0045] The layers are arranged such that the outer layer 126 is positioned furthest from the user, the filter layer 128 is bonded to the inner surface of the outer layer 126, the mask frame 130 is bonded to the inner surface of the filter layer 128, and the inner layer 134 is bonded to the inner surface of the mask frame 130.

[0046] The outer layer 126 is preferably a fiber layer composed of polycotton Lycra® or another suitable fiber. The filter layer 128 may consist of one or more layers, which may consist of a nonwoven fabric layer, a meltblown fabric layer, an activated carbon layer, and an anti-fouling fabric, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, there may be more or fewer layers than those said above, and some layers may be duplicated within the structure. In a preferred embodiment, the layers are arranged as a nonwoven fabric layer (innermost layer), a meltblown filter layer, an activated carbon layer, a meltblown filter layer, and an anti-fouling fabric layer (outermost layer). Two meltblown layers "sandwich" the activated carbon layer.

[0047] In at least one embodiment, the filter layer 128 and the outer layer 126 are a single layer composed of a known material. In at least one embodiment, the layer or material fitted to the mask frame 130 is at least N95 quality, or in other embodiments, at least P95, KN95, or conforms to other known standards. The material is custom-fitted and custom-fixed to the mask frame 130 in any case.

[0048] The mask frame 130 provides rigidity to the face covering system and is configured to prevent the mask layer from obstructing the user's mouth and / or nose. To this end, the mask frame 130 is molded so that the central portion of the mask frame 130 is rounded, thereby forming a recess or cup shape. The mask frame 130 further has multiple openings to aid in the ventilation of the system. The mask frame 130 may be formed from the same material as the bracket noted earlier in this specification.

[0049] The inner layer 134, like the outer layer 126, is a fibrous layer preferably made of a polycotton Lycra mixture. The inner layer 134 further comprises two bracket pockets 136 and a strip pocket 140. The two bracket pockets 136 are located on the first and second sides of the inner layer 134, respectively. The strip pocket 140 is located along the upper edge of the inner layer 134.

[0050] Two bracket pockets 136 are configured to receive brackets individually. Each pocket may further have a fastening mechanism, such as a hook-and-loop fastener, to help secure the bracket to the pocket and therein. In other embodiments, the bracket is bonded to the pocket by mechanical or chemical means and held therein, as shown in Figure 16. A strip pocket 140 is configured to receive and hold a nose strip 122 therein. The purpose of the nose strip 122 is to allow the upper portion of the mask to fit the individual user's face. The nose strip 122 is formed from a thin piece of metal that can be easily molded and retains its shape when molded. This prevents the exhaled breath of the user from being released into the atmosphere without being filtered, and also prevents glasses, goggles, etc. from fogging up due to the user's breath.

[0051] Each bracket is preferably attached to the fastening strap 116 by a clip or other similarly positioned device. The fastening strap 116 may be adjustable to provide a custom fit for individual users. When assembled, the face covering system looks as shown in the user profile diagram of Figure 16. Here, it is shown how the mask frame 130 separates the fibrous portion of the mask body 114 from the user's nose and / or mouth, thereby making it more comfortable to wear and easier to breathe. Furthermore, the central opening 138 of the inner layer 134, combined with the opening of the mask frame 130, provides improved breathability without sacrificing the filtration quality provided by the filter layer 128. It can be seen that the brackets are easily held in place by the pockets 136 to which the fastening straps 116 are attached.

[0052] In another embodiment of the face covering system, the same general structure and layers of the mask elements are visible, as shown in Figure 15. However, there are some distinct structural differences compared to the embodiment in Figure 14.

[0053] The filter layer 128 has a number of tabs 142 along its upper edge. The tabs 142 (further shown in Figure 11) fold so that they bend upward. This causes the tabs 142 to press against the inner layer 134 when the cover system is fully assembled, thereby creating a sealing effect between the inner layer 134 and the user's skin surface. This is desirable as it allows the user to breathe through the central portion of the mask which has filtering properties, and also prevents glasses, goggles, etc. from fogging up due to leaked breath.

[0054] Furthermore, the mask frame 130 has openings of a larger size and density, which also allows for easier air exchange while the user is breathing. The exact size and density of the openings can vary and are not substantially limited as long as the structural integrity of the mask frame 130 is maintained. The mask frame 130 also has numerous attachment points (openings) along the first and second edges of the mask frame 130. These attachment points mimic brackets, and since the brackets are essentially integrated into the mask frame 130, the need for separate brackets is eliminated. The fastening straps 116 can then be attached directly to the attachment points on the mask frame 130. The inner layer 134 may have a slightly different outer circumference to accommodate this variation, but may otherwise remain unchanged.

[0055] As discussed earlier, it is noteworthy that the inner layer 134 does not have a pocket. This is because, as noted above, it includes the aforementioned pocket-like structure (nose strip and bracket) integrated with the mask frame 130.

[0056] Figures 17a and 17c show various nose cushions 180. In Figure 17a, the nose cushion may be a molded feature that folds over the fabric or fiber portion of the mask, helping to fit to the nose and sealing the mask at the nasal ridge. This helps prevent glasses from fogging up. In Figure 17b, the nose cushion 180 is a replaceable nose cushion that attaches to the mask frame 130 by clipping or other means using a snap feature. In Figure 17c, the nose cushion 180 is attached to the mask frame 130 using an adhesive such as tape. While these replacements for the nose cushion 180 have been described, it should be readily apparent that the exact form factor (e.g., shape) of the nose cushion 180 may also vary along with the attachment mechanism.

[0057] Figures 19a to 20b show yet another iteration of the mask system according to the present invention. Here, a more "minimal" version of the mask system exists. Typically, this comprises a mask body 114, a mask frame 130, fastening straps 116, ferrules 153, and mounting points 152.

[0058] As shown in Figures 19a and 19b, a double fastening strap 116 version exists. The fastening strap 116 here comprises two separate straps that are independently coupled to the mask frame 130 by attachment points 152. The system can then be completed by coupling the mask body 114 to the mask frame 130 (if it does not already exist). Then, as shown in Figure 19b, the strap 116 is fitted around the user's neck. Optional pads can provide additional protection for the user's neck. When the user has used the mask body 114 for a set amount of time, the mask body can be easily removed from the mask frame 130 and discarded. A new mask body can then be placed on the mask frame 130.

[0059] In Figures 20a to 20b, the same general principles as those described in Figures 19a to 19b exist, except for the fastening strap 116. Here, the fastening strap 116 has two ferrules 153 positioned on it, which allow for the subsequent "splitting" of the fastening strap 116. This results in a single fastening strap 116 having two attachment points 152 at each of the first and second ends of the strap. The double or two attachment points allow for additional stability to the mask system without increasing the weight of the system, which improves the system's usability. All other structures and principles described in relation to Figures 19a to 19b are applicable to this embodiment.

[0060] Referring here to Figures 21a to 24, another embodiment of the present application having a lip reading window is shown. Such an embodiment has many of the structural features of the embodiments described herein. However, this embodiment has a perforated mask frame 130 that allows a portion of the mask frame 130 to be removed.

[0061] As shown in Figure 21c, the mask frame 130 is shown. The mask frame 130 is substantially identical to the embodiments described earlier in this specification, but has a perforation 156 that allows a portion of the mask frame 130 to be removed. When removed, the mask frame 130 has an opening or gap visible, as shown at least in Figures 21a and 21b. The opening is preferably rectangular in shape to accommodate and fully expose the user's mouth area, but alternative shapes and sizes are included within the scope of this application.

[0062] When a portion of the mask frame 130 is removed, a transparent viewing window 156 is placed in its place, as shown in Figure 22a. The transparent viewing window 156 can fit into a molded groove within the mask frame 130. Such a molded groove may always be accessible, or may become accessible when the perforated portion of the mask frame 130 is removed. The molded groove holds the transparent viewing window 156 and thereby provides a seal to prevent the transparent viewing window 156 from falling out of place.

[0063] As shown in Figures 22b and 22c, the baffle (as shown in Figure 22a) is shown in enlarged views in its compressed and uncompressed positions. The baffle is preferably made of silicone and allows the mask skeleton / frame to be fitted to a particular user by extending it. The baffle is located on the bridge of the user's nose, as shown in Figure 22a. The baffle has a natural state or position in which it tends to expand outward away from the body of the mask and mask skeleton 130. When the baffle is compressed upon contact with the user's nose (or other features), the uncompressed portion of the baffle helps to form a seal around the rest of the user's facial structure. The baffle may be further positioned along additional portions of the mask skeleton / frame, not just where the user's nose contacts the mask.

[0064] Figure 23 shows an exploded view of a mask having an embodiment of a viewing window reminiscent of the exploded view of Figure 14. Thus, at least an outer layer 126, a filter layer 128, a mask frame 130, a bracket 100, an inner layer 134, a fastening strap 116, an inner layer spectacle retainer 155, a central opening 138, and a positioning strip 122 may be present. In some embodiments, only the mask frame 130, the filter layer 128, and the outer layer 157 are present. Here, the mask frame 130 has a perforation to enable the removal of a viewing window that allows lip reading while the mask system is being worn. The perforation of the mask frame 130 can be removed, and a transparent viewing window 156 can be inserted into the opening formed after the perforation of the mask frame has been removed. The transparent viewing window 156 fits into the mask frame 130 as previously described herein. Figure 24 shows a side view of such an embodiment having a one-way pull lanyard 159 extending over the user's ears. Although the lanyard is shown positioned above the ear, it may or may not extend above the ear depending on the user's preference. Any embodiment of the lanyard and its configuration shown in this application may be used in conjunction with the embodiment shown in Figure 24.

[0065] The embodiments of the present invention described herein define face covering systems that may be used in several forms and embodiments. In some cases, brackets may be used and retrofitted to existing protective masks and / or surgical masks worn by the user. In other embodiments, a dedicated mask system incorporating a mask frame, brackets, etc., may be available. The face covering system is designed to provide flexibility in mask use and to provide overall comfort to the user. The users of the face covering system described herein can be substantially any user and may also be applicable to animals. If a child or other small individual wishes to use the face covering system, this is done by simply reducing the proportions of the components to provide the same fit as a regular or adult-sized covering system.

[0066] While the present invention has been described in some detail, it should be understood that this disclosure is merely illustrative and may rely on numerous modifications to the details of the structure and arrangement of the components without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. It is a face covering system, A first bracket having a plurality of first openings and a second bracket having a plurality of second openings, Each of the plurality of first openings penetrates the thickness of the first bracket, and each of the plurality of second openings penetrates the thickness of the second bracket. The plurality of first openings are arranged linearly on the first protruding portion of the first bracket, and the plurality of second openings are arranged linearly on the second protruding portion of the second bracket, with respect to the first bracket and the second bracket. A mask body comprising at least one layer of fiber, further having a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first bracket is coupled to the first edge and the second bracket is coupled to the second edge, A mask skeleton attached to the aforementioned mask body, A mask skeleton bonded to at least one layer of the fiber, A face cover system comprising a fastening strap having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the fastening strap is configured to be coupled to a first bracket, and the second end of the fastening strap is configured to be coupled to a second bracket.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein both the first bracket and the second bracket further comprise at least one hook.

3. The system according to claim 1, further comprising an adjustable strip positioned along the upper edge of the mask body.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the mask body further comprises a first pocket and a second pocket configured to receive the first bracket and the second bracket, respectively.

5. The system according to claim 2, wherein the at least one hook comprises a neck portion and a retaining bar.

6. The system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one tab.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the at least one tab is configured to connect to at least one hook and the mask body.

8. It is a face covering system, A first bracket having a plurality of first openings and a second bracket having a plurality of second openings, Each of the plurality of first openings penetrates the thickness of the first bracket, and each of the plurality of second openings penetrates the thickness of the second bracket. The plurality of first openings are arranged linearly on the first protruding portion of the first bracket, and the plurality of second openings are arranged linearly on the second protruding portion of the second bracket, with respect to the first bracket and the second bracket. A mask body comprising at least one layer of fiber, further having a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first bracket is coupled to the first edge and the second bracket is coupled to the second edge, A mask skeleton attached to the aforementioned mask body, A mask skeleton bonded to at least one layer of the fiber, A fastening strap having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the fastening strap is configured to be connected to a first bracket, and the second end of the fastening strap is configured to be connected to a second bracket. A face cover system comprising a fastening strap, the first end and the second end each having two attachment points configured to connect to the mask frame.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the fastening strap is connected to the first bracket and the second bracket via the strap of the mask body.

10. The system according to claim 8, wherein the fastening strap is configured to be positioned around the user's neck.

11. The system according to claim 8, further comprising at least one tab coupled to each of the first bracket and the second bracket.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the at least one tab comprises a first end and a second end joined by an arc-shaped section.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the arc-shaped section is configured to be coupled to at least one of the hooks of the first bracket and the second bracket.

14. It is a face covering system, A first bracket having a plurality of first openings and a second bracket having a plurality of second openings, Each of the plurality of first openings penetrates the thickness of the first bracket, and each of the plurality of second openings penetrates the thickness of the second bracket. The plurality of first openings are arranged linearly on the first protruding portion of the first bracket, and the plurality of second openings are arranged linearly on the second protruding portion of the second bracket, with respect to the first bracket and the second bracket. A mask body comprising at least one layer of fiber, further having a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first bracket is connected to the first edge and the second bracket is connected to the second edge. The mask body comprises a mask body having a sealing baffle arranged along a portion of the mask body, A mask frame attached to the mask body, having a plurality of openings The mask skeleton is bonded to at least one layer of the fibers of the mask body. A part of the aforementioned mask frame is removable, and the mask frame is A face cover system comprising a fastening strap having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the fastening strap is configured to be coupled to at least one of the plurality of first openings of the first bracket, and the second end of the fastening strap is configured to be coupled to at least one of the plurality of second openings of the second bracket.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein the mask body is formed from at least an outer layer, a filter layer, and an inner layer.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the mask frame is disposed between the filter layer and the inner layer.

17. The system according to claim 14, further comprising a viewing window configured to engage with the mask frame when the portion of the mask frame is removed.

18. The system according to claim 15, wherein the inner layer and the outer layer have an opening located in the center.

19. The system according to claim 14, wherein the mask skeleton further comprises a plurality of tabs facing inward along the upper edge of the mask skeleton.

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