mask

Abstract

This mask provides a three-dimensional shape that easily covers the space around the mouth. [Solution] The mask (1) comprises a cover portion (2) having a plurality of base sheets. The base sheets have pleated portions (18) that are folded in a pleated manner based on folds extending in the horizontal direction. The cover portion has a first laminated region (R41) and a second laminated region (R42) that are adjacent to each other via folds and overlap in the un-unfolded state. The cover portion is provided with a joining portion (50) that extends in the horizontal direction for joining the plurality of base sheets. The joining portion is provided in only one of the first laminated region and the second laminated region, so as not to straddle the folds in the un-unfolded state. The joining portion comprises a first joining portion (51) and a second joining portion (52). The first joining portion is located on both sides in the horizontal direction, flanking a first unjointed region (R11) that straddles the horizontal center of the cover portion. The second joining portion is located on both sides in the horizontal direction, flanking a second unjointed region (R12) that straddles the horizontal center of the cover portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mask.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a mask in which a breathable covering portion covering at least the mouth and nose of a wearer is folded into a pleated shape by a plurality of folds extending in a lateral direction corresponding to the left - right direction of the wearer. When the mask is worn, a part of the pleats is in a developed and three - dimensional state. The mask of Patent Document 1 is provided with a joining portion that forms a laminated state or a non - openable / closable state for a part or all of the region overlapping due to the folds. Since the joining portions are provided on both sides sandwiching the lateral center of the covering portion in the lateral direction, the covering portion is deformed with the lateral center as the apex, and the deformation is supported at the joining portions on both sides in the lateral direction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the above - mentioned mask had room for improvement in the following points. The joining portion extends in the lateral direction on both sides sandwiching the lateral center of the covering portion. Therefore, although base points for supporting deformation are formed on both sides of the joining portion in the lateral direction, it was sometimes difficult for the base points for support to spread over the entire vertical direction of the covering portion. Therefore, it was sometimes impossible to form a three - dimensional shape covering the mouth area over the entire mask body. Also, in a mask having a plurality of base material sheets, some of the base material sheets sometimes lifted toward the mouth area, and it was sometimes impossible to secure a space for covering the mouth area. [[ID=ID=38]]

[0005] This invention has been made in view of these problems, and aims to provide a mask that easily maintains a three-dimensional shape that covers the mouth. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A mask according to one embodiment comprises a cover portion that covers the wearer's mouth and has a vertical direction corresponding to the wearer's up-and-down direction and a horizontal direction corresponding to the wearer's left-and-right direction, and a plurality of breathable base sheets. The base sheets have pleated portions that are folded in a pleated manner starting from a fold extending in the horizontal direction. The cover portion has a first layered region and a second layered region that are adjacent to each other via the fold and overlap in a non-expanded state where the pleats are not unfolded. The cover portion is provided with a joining portion that extends in the horizontal direction for joining the plurality of base sheets. The joining portion is provided in only one of the first layered region and the second layered region, and is provided so as not to straddle the fold in the non-expanded state. The joining portion has a first joining portion and a second joining portion that is spaced apart from the first joining portion in the vertical direction. The first joining portion is arranged on both sides in the horizontal direction, flanking a first non-jointed region that straddles the horizontal center of the cover portion. The second joint portion is located on both sides in the lateral direction, straddling the second non-jointed region which straddles the lateral center of the covering portion. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a plan view of the mask according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the mask according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the mask according to the first embodiment after it has been deformed into a three-dimensional shape. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a mask according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a mask according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a mask according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 7]Figure 7 shows a mask according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a mask according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a mask according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a mask according to the eighth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] (1) Outline of the Embodiment The following matters become clear from this specification and the accompanying drawings: The mask according to Embodiment 1 comprises a cover portion that covers the wearer's mouth and has a vertical direction corresponding to the wearer's up-and-down direction and a horizontal direction corresponding to the wearer's left-and-right direction, and a plurality of breathable base sheets. The base sheets have pleated portions that are folded in a pleated manner starting from a fold extending in the horizontal direction. The cover portion has a first layered region and a second layered region that are adjacent to each other via the fold and overlap in a non-expanded state where the pleats are not unfolded. The cover portion is provided with a joining portion that extends in the horizontal direction for joining the plurality of base sheets. The joining portion is provided in only one of the first layered region and the second layered region, and is provided so as not to straddle the fold in the non-expanded state. The joining portion has a first joining portion and a second joining portion that is spaced apart from the first joining portion in the vertical direction. The first joining portion is arranged on both sides in the horizontal direction, flanking a first non-jointed region that straddles the horizontal center of the cover portion. The second joint portion is located on both sides in the lateral direction, straddling the second non-jointed region which straddles the lateral center of the covering portion.

[0009] According to this embodiment, by providing a joint extending laterally in the covering portion, the rigidity in the laterally extending region is increased, a force acts to support the fold, and it becomes easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain the space covering the mouth. Since the joint joins multiple base material sheets, it is possible to suppress some of the base material sheets from floating towards the mouth, making it easier to maintain the space in front of the mouth. Since the joint is provided without spanning the first and second laminated regions and without spanning the fold, the presence of the joint does not hinder the unfolding of the pleats, making it easy to unfold from the fold when worn and making it easy to form a three-dimensional space covering the mouth. The joint has a first joint and a second joint spaced apart in the vertical direction. At the lateral center of the covering portion, a first non-jointed region and a second non-jointed region are arranged vertically apart. Therefore, the presence of both the first and second non-jointed regions provides a region at the lateral center of the covering portion that is easily deformed, and it is possible to form a three-dimensional shape with the lateral center of the covering portion as the apex. Furthermore, the first and second joints are positioned on both sides of the non-jointed region, respectively, and can support a three-dimensional shape with the lateral center of the cover as its vertex. In addition, the first and second joints are spaced apart in the vertical direction, and the inner edge of the first joint (the outer edge of the first non-jointed region) and the inner edge of the second joint (the outer edge of the second non-jointed region) become deformation base points, so that the deformation base point connecting the inner edge of the first joint (the outer edge of the first non-jointed region) and the inner edge of the second joint (the outer edge of the second non-jointed region) extends in the vertical direction. These vertically extending deformation base points are formed on both sides of the lateral center of the cover, and a three-dimensional shape with the lateral center of the cover as its vertex can be formed over a wide vertical range of the cover.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to Embodiment 2 may have the following features in the invention according to Embodiment 1: The distance between the outer edge of the first non-jointed region in the lateral direction and the outer edge of the base sheet is longer than the length of the first non-jointed region in the lateral direction. According to this embodiment, since the lateral length of the first non-jointed region that straddles the lateral center of the covering portion is short, deformation of the covering portion can be locally formed, and a three-dimensional shape can be formed with the first non-jointed region as the apex.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to Embodiment 3 may have the following features in the invention according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2: The first joint and the second joint pass through the lateral center of the covering portion and are symmetric with respect to a lateral center line extending in the vertical direction. According to this embodiment, deformation base points are formed on both sides of the lateral center of the covering portion, with the lateral center line of the covering portion as the axis of symmetry, and a three-dimensional shape can be formed with the lateral center of the covering portion as the vertex.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to Embodiment 4 may have the following features in the invention according to Embodiment 3: The lateral length of the first non-jointed region is 95% to 105% of the lateral length of the second non-jointed region. In this embodiment, the lateral length of the first non-jointed region and the lateral length of the second non-jointed region are substantially the same, and both are symmetrical with respect to the lateral center line, so the lateral position of the first non-jointed region and the lateral position of the second non-jointed region are substantially the same. Therefore, when the covering portion is deformed into a three-dimensional shape with the lateral center as the vertex, the vertex containing the lateral center line of the mask tends to become a flat shape that extends laterally. Thus, a wider space can be formed to cover the mouth.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to Embodiment 5 may have the following features in the invention according to any of Embodiments 1 to 4: The lateral length of the first joint located on one side of the lateral center of the covering portion is longer than the lateral length of the first non-jointed region. According to this embodiment, since the first joint is longer than the first non-jointed region, the rigidity is increased and it becomes easier to form a bending point. As a result, it becomes easier to form a three-dimensional shape that covers the mouth and to maintain the three-dimensional shape.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to aspect 6 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of aspects 1 to 5. In the deployed state where the fold is deployed, the joint is arranged at a distance from the fold line. According to this embodiment, since the joint is provided at a position separated from the fold line, it is possible to suppress an increase in the rigidity of the fold line due to the joint. Therefore, during deployment, the fold line can deform flexibly and the joint can transmit the force in the deployment direction, making it easier to deploy with the fold line as a base point.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to aspect 7 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of aspects 1 to 6. In the deployed state, at least one of the folds is arranged between the first joint and the second joint. Since each of the first joint and the second joint transmits the force in the deployment direction and a rigidity difference is formed between the joint and the fold line, it becomes easier to deploy the pleated portion with the fold arranged between the first joint and the second joint as a base point.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to aspect 8 may have the following features in the invention according to aspect 7. The fold arranged between the first joint and the second joint is a valley fold line that folds in a valley fold shape in which the covering portion protrudes inward in the vertical direction in the non-deployed state. According to this embodiment, since the first joint is arranged on one side sandwiching the valley fold line and the second joint is arranged on the other side, it becomes easier to deploy with the valley fold line as a base point due to the rigidity difference. By deploying with the valley fold line as a base point, it becomes easier to expand the space covering the mouth in the vertical direction.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to aspect 9 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of aspects 1 to 8. The fold lines include a plurality of mountain fold lines that fold the covering portion into a mountain fold shape protruding outward in the vertical direction in the non-expanded state. The first joining portion and the second joining portion are disposed between the uppermost mountain fold line among the mountain fold lines and the lowermost mountain fold line among the mountain fold lines in the non-expanded state. The region sandwiched between the uppermost mountain fold line and the lowermost mountain fold line is a region that can be deformed convexly when worn. By providing a plurality of joining portions extending in the horizontal direction and a plurality of non-joining regions sandwiched by the joining portions in the horizontal direction in this region, the deformation of the pleat portion is induced, and the bending lines formed by the first joining portion and the second joining portion are more likely to be formed.

[0018] <H According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to aspect 10 may have the following features in the invention according to aspect 9. One of the first joining portion and the second joining portion is disposed between the uppermost mountain fold line and a valley fold line located below the uppermost mountain fold line and adjacent to the uppermost mountain fold line. The other of the first joining portion and the second joining portion is disposed between the lowermost mountain fold line and a valley fold line located above the lowermost mountain fold line and adjacent to the lowermost mountain fold line. The region between the uppermost mountain fold line and the valley fold line located below the uppermost mountain fold line and adjacent to the uppermost mountain fold line is likely to be disposed at a position covering the nose of the wearer. Also, the region between the lowermost mountain fold line and the valley fold line located above the lowermost mountain fold line and adjacent to the lowermost mountain fold line is likely to be disposed at a position covering the mouth of the wearer. By forming bending points by the joining portions in the region covering the nose and the region covering the mouth, it is easy to form a front space for the mouth and the nose.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 11 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 10. In the unfolded state, one of the first joint and the second joint is positioned in a region from the vertical center of the cover upwards to 1 / 3 of the total length of the cover in the vertical direction. In the unfolded state, the other of the first joint and the second joint is positioned in a region from the vertical center of the cover downwards to 1 / 3 of the total length of the cover in the vertical direction. The region from the vertical center of the cover upwards to 1 / 3 of the total length of the cover in the vertical direction is easily positioned to cover the nose. Also, the region from the vertical center of the cover downwards to 1 / 3 of the total length of the cover in the vertical direction is easily positioned to cover the mouth. By forming bending points by the joints in the region that covers the nose and the region that covers the mouth, it is easy to form a space in front of the mouth and nose.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 12 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 11. The covering portion is provided with a welded portion in which fibers are welded within a single layer of the base sheet without spanning the multiple layers. The welded portion is provided on both sides of the lateral center of the covering portion between the first joint and the second joint in the longitudinal direction in the un-expanded state. According to this embodiment, the shape of the region between the first joint and the second joint is easily maintained by the welded portion, the bending of the first joint and the bending of the second joint are easily coordinated, and a three-dimensional shape is easily formed over the entire covering portion. Furthermore, after the three-dimensional shape is formed, it is easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape due to the rigidity of the welded portion.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 13 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 12. The fold has a plurality of mountain folds that fold the cover portion into a mountain fold shape that protrudes outward in the vertical direction when unfolded. The mountain fold has a pair of central mountain folds arranged on both sides in the vertical direction, with the vertical center of the cover portion in between. The joint is arranged between the first joint and the second joint in the unfolded state and has a third joint provided between the pair of central mountain folds. The third joint extends outward in the lateral direction beyond the first non-jointed region and the second non-jointed region. The region between the central mountain folds forms a convex shape that bulges outward on the non-skin side. The presence of the third joint suppresses the lifting of the base sheet in the region between the central mountain folds and makes it easier to maintain the space that covers the mouth. Furthermore, the third joint extends continuously in the lateral direction, forming a region with increased rigidity along the lateral axis. This provides a supportive force for the fold, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain the space that covers the mouth.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 14 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 13. The first joints are arranged in a plurality at intervals in the vertical direction between adjacent folds in the unfolded state. According to this embodiment, since there are multiple first joints arranged in a vertical direction, the rigidity is increased not only over a certain range extending in the horizontal direction to which the first joints extend, but also over a certain range extending in the vertical direction, making it easier to form a bending line by the first joints.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 15 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 14: The length of the first joint at the lateral inner edge of the first joint is longer than the length of the first joint at the lateral outer edge of the first joint. The lateral inner edge of the first joint forms a bending point, and the larger joint area of ​​this portion increases the local rigidity, making it easier to form a bending line.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 16 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 15: The joint is spaced apart from the lateral outer edge of the cover. According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the increase in rigidity of the outer edge of the cover due to the joint, and to improve the feel and fit of the outer part of the cover.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 17 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 16: The first joint is located above the vertical center of the cover portion. The second joint is located below the vertical center of the cover portion. The area of ​​the second joint is larger than the area of ​​the first joint. When the mask is worn, the first joint, located above the vertical center of the cover portion, is easily positioned near the nose, and the second joint, located below the vertical center, is easily positioned near the mouth. The mouth has a larger volume of exhaled air compared to the nose, and the cover portion is more likely to stick to it. By increasing the area of ​​the second joint, located below the vertical center, the sticking of the cover portion can be suppressed even when the volume of inhaled air is large.

[0026] (2) Mask according to the first embodiment The mask 1 of the first embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, identical or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and the ratios of each dimension may differ from those of reality. Therefore, specific dimensions should be determined by referring to the following explanation. In addition, there may be parts where the relationships and ratios of dimensions differ between surfaces. Figure 1 is a plan view of the mask 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the mask 1. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line AA shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the mask in a state where it has been transformed into a three-dimensional shape.

[0027] Mask 1 may be disposable or reusable. Mask 1 may be worn to protect the wearer from droplets, pollen, dust, blood, etc. Mask 1 has a thickness direction Z extending from the inner side Z1 facing the wearer's face and the outer side Z2 on the opposite side, a vertical direction X extending upwards and downwards corresponding to the wearer's vertical direction, and a horizontal direction Y extending to the left and right sides when viewed from the front, corresponding to the wearer's left and right direction. Mask 1 has a covering portion 2. The covering portion 2 is configured to cover at least the wearer's mouth. The covering portion 2 may be a rectangle that is long in the horizontal direction Y. The covering portion 2 has an inner surface located on the innermost side (skin side) and an outer surface located on the outermost side (non-skin side).

[0028] The cover portion 2 has multiple breathable base material sheets 10. There are multiple base material sheets 10. In this embodiment, the cover portion 2 has a first base material sheet 11, a second base material sheet 12, and a third base material sheet 13. The first base material sheet 11 is arranged on the outer surface of the cover portion 2. The third base material sheet 13 is arranged on the inner surface of the cover portion 2. The second base material sheet 12 is arranged between the first base material sheet 11 and the third base material sheet 13.

[0029] The cover portion 2 may have a main body joining portion 7 formed by joining the base material sheets 10 that overlap in the unfolded state, as described later. In this embodiment, the main body joining portion 7 joins the first base material sheet 11, the second base material sheet 12, and the third base material sheet 13. The main body joining portion 7 extends vertically in the X direction at both ends of the cover portion 2 in the horizontal direction Y, and extends horizontally in the Y direction at both ends of the cover portion 2 in the horizontal direction X, with two portions extending horizontally in the Y direction at each end.

[0030] The base sheet 10 may have fibers and may be made of a nonwoven or woven fabric. More specifically, the base sheet 10 may be made of, for example, a meltblown nonwoven fabric containing polypropylene fibers, a spunbond nonwoven fabric containing polypropylene fibers, or an SMS nonwoven fabric in which a spunbond layer and a meltblown layer are laminated.

[0031] The mask 1 may have ear loops 20 that are placed over the wearer's ears when worn. The ear loops 20 extend outward from both sides in the lateral direction Y of the cover portion 2. The ear loops 20 may be formed separately from the cover portion 2 and joined to the cover portion 2, or they may be formed integrally with the cover portion 2. In this embodiment, the ear loops 20 are formed separately from the cover portion 2 and may be joined to the cover portion 2 via ear loop joining portions 25. Specifically, among the multiple main body joining portions 7, the main body joining portion 7 provided along the vertical direction X joins the base material sheets together and also joins the cover portion 2 and the ear loops 20, and also serves as the ear loop joining portion 25. In the plan view of the embodiment, the ear loops 20 are located on the back side of the cover portion 2 and are therefore omitted from the illustration.

[0032] In its pre-use state, as shown in Figure 1, the base sheet 10 has pleated sections 18 folded in a pleated manner by multiple folds extending in the lateral direction Y. Figure 1 shows the unfolded state in which the pleated sections 18 are not unfolded. When the mask is used, the base sheet unfolds from the folds, causing the covering section 2 to deform into a three-dimensional shape (for example, a cup shape). Figure 3 shows the mask 1 in a state in which the pleated sections 18 are partially unfolded.

[0033] The fold is a fold that extends in the horizontal direction Y. The fold may have a mountain fold MF that folds the cover portion 2 into a mountain fold shape that protrudes outward in the vertical direction X, and a valley fold VF that folds the cover portion 2 into a valley fold shape that protrudes inward in the vertical direction X. More specifically, the mountain fold MF folds into a mountain fold shape that protrudes outward in the vertical direction X when the vertical center XC, which is the center of the vertical direction X of the cover portion 2, is used as a reference. The valley fold VF folds into a valley fold shape that protrudes inward in the vertical direction X when the vertical center XC is used as a reference. In the cover portion 2 of the first embodiment, a first fold F1 which is a mountain fold MF, a second fold F2 which is a valley fold VF, a third fold which is a mountain fold MF, and a fourth fold F4 which is a valley fold VF are formed on both sides (upper and lower sides, respectively) of the vertical direction X that straddles the center of the vertical direction X of the cover portion 2.

[0034] The mask of the first embodiment is folded in a mountain fold on both sides in the vertical direction X, and deforms into an omega shape when worn. However, it may also have pleated folds 18 that are folded in a mountain fold only downwards, as in the mask of the sixth embodiment. Furthermore, masks according to other embodiments may have pleated folds 18 that are folded in a mountain fold only upwards.

[0035] The first fold F1 is provided in pairs on either side of the vertical center XC of the cover portion 2. The second fold F2 folds the area extending inward from the first fold F1 in the vertical direction X toward the inside in the thickness direction Z1 and toward the outside in the vertical direction X. The third fold F3 folds the area extending outward from the second fold F2 in the vertical direction X toward the inside in the thickness direction Z1 and toward the inside in the vertical direction X. The third fold F3 is located further outward from the first fold F1 in the vertical direction X. The fourth fold F4 folds the area extending inward from the third fold F3 in the vertical direction X toward the inside in the thickness direction Z1 and toward the outside in the vertical direction X. The fourth fold F4 is located further outward from the second fold F2 in the vertical direction X. These mountain folds MF and valley folds VF form a pleated fold portion 18.

[0036] The pleated portion 18 is a part of the covering portion 2 that can be deformed into a three-dimensional shape (for example, a cup shape) by deforming the covering portion 2 with the folds as the base point. The area of ​​the pleated portion 18 is the part sandwiched between the folds located furthest out in the vertical direction X when the folds are unfolded, and in the first embodiment, it is the region sandwiched between the fourth fold F4 which is spaced apart in the vertical direction X when unfolded. When worn, the covering portion 2 takes on a cup shape that gradually protrudes outward in the thickness direction Z2 from the fourth fold F4 toward the first fold F1 toward the inner base point, with the fourth fold F4 being the base point.

[0037] The covering portion 2 has a first layered region R41 and a second layered region R42 that are adjacent to each other via folds in the unfolded state when the pleats 18 are unfolded, and that overlap in the unfolded state when the pleats 18 are not unfolded. The first layered region R41 and the second layered region R42 are regions that are adjacent to each other via folds in the unfolded state and that overlap in the unfolded state. In a form folded with multiple folds as the base point, as in this embodiment, multiple first layered regions R41 and second layered regions R42 are also provided.

[0038] Specifically, the region sandwiched between the pair of first folds F1 is adjacent to the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold via the first fold. The region sandwiched between the pair of first folds F1 constitutes the first layered region, and a portion of the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2 (the region that is longitudinally inward from the first fold F1 in the unfolded state) constitutes the second layered region R42. Furthermore, a portion of the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold is adjacent to the region between the third fold F3 and the fourth fold F4 via the third fold F3. A portion of the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold (the region that is longitudinally inward from the fourth fold F4 in the unfolded state) constitutes the first layered region R41, and the region between the third fold F3 and the fourth fold F4 constitutes the second layered region R42. Furthermore, the region between the third fold F3 and the fourth fold F4 is adjacent to the region between the fourth fold F4 and the vertical outer edge of the cover portion via the fourth fold F4. The region between the third fold F3 and the fourth fold F4 constitutes the first laminated region R41 in relation to the region between the fourth fold F4 and the vertical outer edge of the cover portion. A portion of the region between the fourth fold F4 and the vertical outer edge of the cover portion (the region vertically inward from the third fold F3 in the unfolded state) constitutes the second laminated region R42. In this embodiment, the first base sheet 11, the second base sheet 12, and the third base sheet 13 are arranged in each laminated region, but it is sufficient that at least multiple base sheets 10 are arranged in each laminated region.

[0039] The covering portion 2 has a lateral side region RY that extends from the outer edge of the covering portion 2 in the lateral direction Y to the inner side Z1 in the lateral direction Y. The lateral side region RY is the area from the outer edge of the covering portion 2 in the lateral direction Y to the inner side of the lateral direction Y, up to 30 mm.

[0040] The mask 1 of this embodiment is configured to easily maintain a three-dimensional shape that covers the mouth. Next, the configuration for easily maintaining the three-dimensional shape that covers the mouth will be described in detail. The covering portion 2 is provided with a joining portion 50 for joining multiple base material sheets. The joining portion 50 is configured to join all of the multiple base material sheets 10. Specifically, in the configuration having first to third base material sheets, the joining portion 50 joins the first to third base material sheets, and in the configuration having first to second base material sheets, it joins the first to second base material sheets. Because the joining portion 50 joins multiple base material sheets, it can suppress some of the base material sheets from floating towards the mouth, making it easier to maintain a space that covers the front of the mouth.

[0041] The joint 50 can be formed by joining multiple base material sheets, and the joining method is not limited. The joint 50 may be a portion where the base material sheets are joined together by ultrasonic waves, or it may be a portion where the base material sheets are joined together by other methods (e.g., heat welding, adhesive).

[0042] The joint portion 50 is provided in only one of the first layered region R41 and the second layered region R42, so as not to straddle the fold when unfolded. For example, the joint portion 50 provided in the first layered region R41 does not straddle the second layered region R42, and the joint portion 50 provided in the second layered region R42 does not straddle the first layered region R41. Also, the joint portion 50 does not straddle the fold when unfolded. Therefore, the joint portion 50 does not hinder the separation of overlapping layered regions when unfolded, nor does it hinder the unfolding of the pleats starting from the fold. Thus, the presence of the joint portion 50 does not hinder the unfolding of the pleats, making it easy to unfold them starting from the fold when worn, and making it easy to form a three-dimensional space that covers the mouth.

[0043] The joint portion 50 extends in the lateral direction Y and may extend in a straight line along the lateral direction Y. More specifically, the joint portion 50 may extend in a continuous straight line or in a discontinuously arranged straight line (for example, in a perforated shape). The length of the joint portion 50 in the vertical direction X may be shorter than the length of the joint portion 50 in the lateral direction Y. Also, the length of the joint portion 50 in the vertical direction X may be 0.2 mm or more and 3 mm or less. The joint portion 50 may extend parallel to the lateral direction Y, or it may extend in the lateral direction while being inclined with respect to the lateral direction Y. Preferably, the direction in which the joint portion 50 extends may be parallel to the lateral direction Y, or inclined at an angle of 5 degrees or less with respect to the lateral direction Y. By providing the cover portion 2 with a joint portion 50 extending in the lateral direction Y, the joint portion 50 exerts a force that supports the fold, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain the space that covers the mouth.

[0044] The joint 50 has a first joint 51 and a second joint 52 spaced apart from the first joint 51 in the vertical direction X. The first joint 51 and the second joint 52 only need to be spaced apart in the vertical direction X when deployed, but preferably they need to be spaced apart in the vertical direction X even when not deployed. Furthermore, the joint 50 only needs to have at least the first joint 51 and the second joint 52, and may also have other joints, such as a third joint spaced apart in the vertical direction from the first joint 51 and the second joint 52.

[0045] In this embodiment, the first joint portion 51 is located above the vertical center XC and is provided in the region between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3. In the folded state, the first joint portion 51 is located above the first fold F1. In this embodiment, the second joint portion 52 is located below the vertical center XC and is provided in the region between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3. In the folded state, the second joint portion 52 is located below the first fold F1. In this embodiment, the first joint portion 51 and the first non-jointed region R11 are located above the vertical center XC, and the second joint portion 52 and the second non-jointed region R12 are located below the vertical center XC. However, the positional relationship between the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 is not limited and they may be arranged upside down.

[0046] The first joint portion 51 is located on both sides in the lateral direction, flanking the first non-jointed region R11, which straddles the lateral center YC, the lateral center of the covering portion. In other words, the first joint portion 51 does not straddle the lateral center YC. The first non-jointed region R11 is the region where no joint portion 50 is provided, and is the region sandwiched between the left and right first joint portions 51. The second joint portion 52 is located on both sides in the lateral direction Y, flanking the second non-jointed region R12, which straddles the lateral center YC, and is the region sandwiched between the left and right second joint portions 52. In other words, the second joint portion 52 does not straddle the lateral center YC. The second non-jointed region R12 is the region where no joint portion 50 is provided, and is the region sandwiched between the left and right second joint portions 52.

[0047] The first non-joined region R11 and the second non-joined region R12 are regions where no joint portion 50 is provided to join all the base sheets (from the first base sheet to the third base sheet), and other joint portions or welded portions may be provided. For example, the welded portion 15 of the second embodiment may be provided in the first non-joined region R11 and the second non-joined region R12.

[0048] The joint portion 50 has at least a first joint portion 51 and a second joint portion 52 that are spaced apart in the vertical direction. At the horizontal center YC of the cover portion 2, a first non-jointed region R11 and a second non-jointed region R12 are arranged apart in the vertical direction X. Therefore, the presence of both the first non-jointed region R11 and the second non-jointed region R12 provides a region at the horizontal center YC in which the cover portion 2 is easily deformed, and a three-dimensional shape can be formed with the horizontal center YC of the cover portion 2 as its apex. The first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 are each arranged on both sides of the non-jointed region, and support the three-dimensional shape with the horizontal center YC as its apex on both sides in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, a first joint 51 and a second joint 52 are provided spaced apart in the vertical direction X. The inner edge of the first joint 51 (the outer edge of the first non-jointed area) and the inner edge of the second joint 52 (the outer edge of the second non-jointed area) serve as deformation base points. As a result, deformation base points connecting the inner edge of the first joint 51 (the outer edge of the first non-jointed area) and the inner edge of the second joint 52 (the outer edge of the second non-jointed area) extend in the vertical direction. These deformation base points extending in the vertical direction X are formed on both sides of the horizontal center YC of the cover portion 2, and a three-dimensional shape with the horizontal center YC of the cover portion 2 as its vertex can be formed over a wide area in the vertical direction X of the cover portion 2. In this embodiment, the inner edges of the first joint 51 and the inner edges of the second joint 52 are located on a virtual line extending along the vertical direction X. Therefore, deformation base points extending in the vertical direction X are formed.

[0049] The following describes a preferred configuration in this embodiment. The distance L31 between the outer edge of the first non-jointed region R11 and the outer edge of the base sheet 10 in the lateral direction Y may be longer than the length L11 of the first non-jointed region R11 in the lateral direction Y. According to this embodiment, since the length of the first non-jointed region R11 in the lateral direction Y is short, deformation of the covering portion 2 can be locally formed, and a three-dimensional shape with the first non-jointed region R11 as the vertex can be formed. Also, the distance L32 between the outer edge of the second non-jointed region R12 and the outer edge of the base sheet 10 in the lateral direction Y may be longer than the length of the second non-jointed region R12 in the lateral direction Y. According to this embodiment, since the length of the second non-jointed region R12 in the lateral direction Y is also short, similar to the lateral length L11 of the first non-jointed region R11, deformation of the covering portion 2 can be locally formed, making it easier to form a three-dimensional shape with the lateral center YC of the covering portion 2 as the vertex. In the modified example, the distance L31 may be shorter than the length L11 of the first non-jointed region R11. Furthermore, the distance L32 may be shorter than the length L12 of the second non-jointed region R12.

[0050] The length L51 in the lateral direction Y of the first joint 51 located on one side of the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2 may be longer than the length L11 in the lateral direction Y of the first non-jointed region R11. Similarly, the length L52 in the lateral direction Y of the second joint 52 located on one side of the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2 may be longer than the length L12 in the lateral direction Y of the second non-jointed region R12. In this embodiment, since the joint portion is longer than the non-jointed region, the rigidity is increased, and it becomes easier to form bending points. As a result, it becomes easier to form a three-dimensional shape that covers the mouth, and it is also easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape. In a modified example, the length L51 in the lateral direction Y of the first joint 51 located on one side of the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2 may be shorter than the length L11 in the lateral direction Y of the first non-jointed region R11. Furthermore, the length L52 in the lateral direction Y of the second joint 52 located on one side of the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2 may be shorter than the length L12 in the lateral direction Y of the second non-joined region R12.

[0051] The first joint 51 is positioned between the outer edge of the first non-jointed region R11 and the outer edge of the base sheet 10. The lateral length L51 of the first joint 51, located on one side of the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2, may be the same as the distance L31 between the outer edge of the first non-jointed region R11 and the outer edge of the base sheet 10, or it may be shorter than the distance L31 between the outer edge of the first non-jointed region R11 and the outer edge of the base sheet 10. Similarly, the second joint 52 is positioned between the outer edge of the second non-jointed region R12 and the outer edge of the base sheet 10. The lateral length L52 of the second joint 52, located on one side of the lateral center YC of the cover portion, may be the same as the distance L32 between the outer edge of the second non-jointed region R12 and the outer edge of the base sheet 10, or it may be shorter than the distance L32 between the outer edge of the second non-jointed region R12 and the outer edge of the base sheet 10.

[0052] Furthermore, the outer edges of the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may be located inward in the lateral direction Y from the ear hook joint 25. This prevents the formation of a locally rigid area by preventing the ear hook joint 25 and the joint 50 from overlapping. The first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may be spaced apart from the outer edge of the cover portion 2 in the lateral direction Y. This prevents the outer edge of the cover portion 2 from becoming rigid and improves the feel and fit on the outer part of the cover portion 2. Also, the outer edges of the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may be located within the lateral side region RY. The lateral side region RY is an area that extends inward in the lateral direction Y from the outer edge of the cover portion 2 in the lateral direction Y, and is an area that is easily placed in close contact with the cheek without being far from the face. By providing the joint 50 in the lateral side region RY, it is possible to prevent the base sheet 10 from lifting up and sticking to the mouth.

[0053] The first joint 51 and the second joint 52 are symmetric with respect to a horizontal center line that passes through the horizontal center YC of the cover portion 2 and extends in the vertical direction X. According to this embodiment, deformation base points are formed on both sides of the horizontal center YC of the cover portion 2, with the horizontal center line of the cover portion as the axis of symmetry, and a three-dimensional shape can be formed with the horizontal center YC of the cover portion 2 as the vertex. Note that the form that is symmetric with respect to the horizontal center line only needs to be line symmetric with respect to the horizontal center line as the axis of symmetry, and may straddle the horizontal center line or be spaced away from the horizontal center line without straddling it. In a modified example, the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may be asymmetric with respect to the horizontal center line.

[0054] The length L11 in the lateral direction Y of the first non-jointed region R11 may be 95% to 105% of the length L12 in the lateral direction Y of the second non-jointed region R12. Since the length L11 in the lateral direction Y of the first non-jointed region R11 and the length L12 in the lateral direction Y of the second non-jointed region R12 are substantially the same and both are symmetric with respect to the lateral center line, the position in the lateral direction Y of the first non-jointed region R11 and the position in the lateral direction Y of the second non-jointed region R12 are approximately the same. Therefore, when the cover portion 2 is deformed into a three-dimensional shape with the lateral center YC as the vertex, the vertex containing the lateral center line of the mask tends to become a flat shape that extends in the lateral direction. Thus, a wider space can be formed to cover the mouth. In addition, the length L51 in the lateral direction Y of the first joint portion 51 may be 95% to 105% of the length in the lateral direction Y of the second joint portion 52.

[0055] The joint portion 50 may be positioned spaced apart from the fold when the pleat portion 18 is unfolded. According to this embodiment, since the joint portion 50 is provided at a position spaced apart from the fold, it is possible to suppress the increase in the rigidity of the fold caused by the joint portion 50. Therefore, when unfolded, the fold deforms flexibly and the joint portion 50 can transmit force in the unfolding direction, making it easier to unfold the fold using the fold as a starting point.

[0056] In the unfolded state, at least one fold may be positioned between the first joint 51 and the second joint 52. Each of the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 transmits force in the unfolding direction, and a difference in rigidity is formed between the joint 50 and the fold, making it easier for the pleats 18 to unfold with the fold positioned between the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 as a starting point. In this embodiment, a pair of second folds F2 and a pair of first folds F1 are positioned between the first joint 51 and the second joint 52.

[0057] The fold positioned between the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may have a valley fold VF. In this embodiment, the first joint 51 is positioned on one side of the valley fold VF and the second joint 52 is positioned on the other side, so the difference in rigidity makes it easier to unfold with the valley fold as the starting point. By unfolding with the valley fold as the starting point, it becomes easier to widen the space covering the mouth in the vertical direction.

[0058] The fold positioned between the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may have a mountain fold MF. The first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may be positioned between the uppermost mountain fold and the lowermost mountain fold, which are located in the un-expanded state. The region sandwiched between the upper and lower mountain folds is a region that can be deformed into a convex shape when worn. By providing a plurality of joints 50 extending in the lateral direction and an unjointed region sandwiched between the joints 50 in the lateral direction in this region, deformation of the pleat portion 18 is induced, and the bending lines formed by the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 are made easier to form. In this embodiment, the upper mountain fold is a third fold F3 located above the vertical center XC, and the lower mountain fold is a third fold F3 located below the vertical center XC.

[0059] One of the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 may be positioned between an upper mountain fold and a valley fold located below the upper mountain fold and adjacent to the upper mountain fold. In this embodiment, the first joint portion 51 is positioned between a third fold F3 and a second fold F2, both located above the vertical center XC. The other of the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 may be positioned between a lower mountain fold and a valley fold located above the lower mountain fold and adjacent to the lower mountain fold. In this embodiment, the second joint portion 52 is positioned between a third fold F3 and a second fold F2, both located below the vertical center XC. The area between the upper mountain fold and a valley fold located below the upper mountain fold and adjacent to the upper mountain fold is easily positioned to cover the wearer's nose. Furthermore, the area between the downward fold and the valley fold located above and adjacent to the downward fold is easily positioned to cover the wearer's mouth, and the bending points formed by the joints between the area covering the nose and the area covering the mouth make it easier to create space in front of the mouth and nose.

[0060] (3) Masks according to other embodiments Next, masks according to other embodiments will be described. In the following description, components similar to those in the embodiments described above will be referred to by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted. Masks according to the second to sixth embodiments will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 8.

[0061] Figure 4 shows a mask 1B according to the second embodiment. Figure 4(A) is a plan view, and Figure 4(B) is a cross-sectional view along line BB shown in Figure 4(A). The mask 1B according to the second embodiment has a welded portion 15. The welded portion 15 is a region where the fibers of the base sheet 10 are welded. The welded portion 15 may be a portion where the fibers of the base sheet are welded by heat welding, or it may be a portion where the fibers of the base sheet are welded by another method (for example, ultrasonic welding).

[0062] The welded portion 15 is formed on only one of the multiple base sheets 10, and not across multiple base sheets 10. That is, in this embodiment, it is formed on only one of the base sheets from the first to the third base sheet. In a form where any base sheet is folded and stacked in multiple layers, the welded portion 15 does not span across the multiple layers. Therefore, the regions folded with respect to the folds are not joined by the welded portion 15, and the welded portion 15 does not prevent unfolding with respect to the folds. In this embodiment, the welded portion 15 is provided on the first base sheet 11, and not on the second base sheet 12 and the third base sheet 13.

[0063] The welded portions 15 are arranged so as not to overlap in the thickness direction Z when the sheet is not unfolded. In the second embodiment, the welded portions 15 of the first base sheet 11 are provided in the region between the first folds F1 which are spaced apart in the vertical direction X, and in a part of the region between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3. The welded portions 15 in the region between the second fold F2 and the third fold of the first base sheet 11 do not overlap with the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2, and are provided only in the region between the first fold F1 and the third fold when the sheet is not unfolded. Therefore, the welded portions 15 in the region between the first folds F1 and the welded portions 15 in the region between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3 are adjacent, but do not overlap in the thickness direction Z when the sheet is not unfolded. In configurations where layers overlap in the thickness direction Z, for example, in configurations where welded sections are provided on both layers separated by a fold, the rigidity of each overlapping layer increases, making it difficult to unfold from the fold. However, by providing a welded section on only one of the overlapping layers with the fold as the starting point, the relatively less rigid layer (the layer with the welded section) can deform flexibly using the relatively rigid layer (the layer with the welded section) as the starting point, making it easier to unfold from the fold.

[0064] By providing a welded portion 15 on the covering portion 2, a region with increased rigidity in the base sheet 10 is formed, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape of the mask 1. In particular, with masks using a relatively soft base sheet, while the feel against the skin can be improved, there is a risk that it will be difficult to maintain the three-dimensional shape of the mask. However, by providing a welded portion 15, the rigidity of the areas necessary for forming the three-dimensional shape can be increased by the welded portion, thus achieving both a good feel against the skin and the ability to maintain the shape. Furthermore, in a form in which the welded portion 15 is formed across multiple layers, the welded portion spanning multiple layers will have locally higher rigidity compared to the surrounding area, which can easily cause discomfort when worn. However, since the welded portion 15 in this embodiment is provided without spanning multiple layers, the formation of a region with locally higher rigidity is suppressed, and discomfort when worn can be suppressed. In addition, in a form in which the welded portion 15 spans multiple layers, relative movement between the layers formed by the welded portion 15 is suppressed. However, since the welded portion 15 in this embodiment is formed in only one layer and does not span multiple layers, it does not hinder the relative movement between layers, and the covering portion 2 can easily deform flexibly in response to mouth movements, thus suppressing discomfort when worn. Because the welded portion does not overlap in the thickness direction, it suppresses the formation of areas with locally high rigidity, thereby suppressing discomfort when worn.

[0065] The welded portions 15 are provided on both sides of the lateral center YC of the cover portion, between the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 in the vertical direction X when the cover portion is not unfolded. More specifically, the welded portions 15 are provided in the region between the pair of first folds F1, spaced apart in the lateral direction Y. These welded portions 15 are positioned sandwiched between the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52, respectively. According to this embodiment, the shape of the region between the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 is more easily maintained by the welded portions 15, the bending of the first joint portion 51 and the bending of the second joint portion 52 are more easily coordinated, and a three-dimensional shape is more easily formed over the entire cover portion 2. Furthermore, after the three-dimensional shape is formed, it is easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape due to the rigidity of the welded portions 15.

[0066] The welded portion 15 may be provided in the first non-jointed region R11 and the second non-jointed region R12. The first non-jointed region R11 and the second non-jointed region R12 straddle the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2 and are regions that are easily deformed. When the cover portion 2 is deformed into a three-dimensional shape with the lateral center YC as its vertex, the region including the lateral center line of the mask 1 tends to become a flat shape that extends laterally due to the rigidity of the welded portion 15. Therefore, a wider space can be formed to cover the mouth.

[0067] The joint portion 50 of the mask 1B in the second embodiment is positioned between the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 in the unfolded state and has a third joint portion 53 provided between a pair of central mountain folds. The central mountain folds are mountain folds that are positioned on both sides in the vertical direction X, sandwiching the vertical center XC of the covering portion. The central mountain folds in the second embodiment are a pair of first folds F1. The third joint portion 53 extends outward in the horizontal direction Y beyond the first non-jointed region R11 and the second non-jointed region R12. The third joint portion 53 spans a region that straddles the horizontal center YC and where no welded portion is provided, a region where welded portions 15 are provided located on both sides of the region in the horizontal direction, and a region where welded portions 15 are not provided located on both sides of the region where welded portions are provided. In the region outside the first non-jointed region R11 and the second non-jointed region R12 in the lateral direction Y, the first joint 51, the third joint 53, and the second joint 52 are arranged from top to bottom, with each joint 50 spaced apart in the vertical direction X when not unfolded. The region between the central mountain folds forms a convex shape that bulges out the most towards the non-skin side. The presence of the third joint 53 suppresses the lifting of the base sheet 10 in the region between the central mountain folds, making it easier to maintain the space that covers the mouth. Furthermore, the third joint 53 extends continuously in the lateral direction, forming a region with increased rigidity along the lateral direction Y, providing a force that supports the folds and makes it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain the space that covers the mouth.

[0068] Figure 5 shows the mask 1C according to the third embodiment. Figure 5(A) is a plan view, and Figure 5(B) is a cross-sectional view along the CC line shown in Figure 5(A). The first joints 51 of the mask 1C according to the third embodiment are arranged in multiples with spacing in the vertical direction X between adjacent folds when unfolded. According to this embodiment, the presence of multiple first joints 51 aligned in the vertical direction X increases rigidity not only in a certain range extending in the horizontal direction Y where the first joints 51 extend, but also in a certain range extending in the vertical direction X, making it easier to form a bending line by the first joints 51.

[0069] In a configuration in which multiple first joints 51 are arranged in a row, the vertical spacing between the first joints 51 must be such that the first joints 51 can easily move in conjunction with each other. Specifically, the vertical spacing X between the first joints 51 may be 5 m or less, and preferably 3 mm or less.

[0070] Furthermore, multiple second joints 52 may be arranged vertically at intervals between adjacent folds in the unfolded state. Also, the horizontal lengths Y of the multiple first joints 51 may be the same or different.

[0071] Figure 6 shows the mask 1D according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 6(A) is a plan view, and Figure 6(B) is a cross-sectional view along the DD line shown in Figure 6(A). In the mask 1D according to the fourth embodiment, the length of the first joint 51 in the vertical direction X at the inner edge of the first joint 51 in the lateral direction Y is longer than the length of the first joint 51 in the vertical direction X at the outer edge of the first joint 51 in the lateral direction Y. Three first joints 51 are arranged in a row in the vertical direction in the fourth embodiment. Three first joints 51 are arranged at the inner edge of the first joint 51 in the lateral direction Y, and one first joint 51 is arranged at the outer edge of the first joint 51 in the lateral direction Y. Therefore, at the inner edge of the first joint 51 in the lateral direction Y, the area where the joint is located is large, and the rigidity is high. The inner edge of the first joint in the lateral direction becomes the part that forms a bending point, and because the joint area of ​​this part is large, the local rigidity is increased, making it easier to form a bending line.

[0072] Figure 7 shows the mask 1E according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 7(A) is a plan view, and Figure 7(B) is a cross-sectional view along the line EE shown in Figure 7(A). In the mask 1E according to the fifth embodiment, the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 are located between regions sandwiched by adjacent folds in the vertical direction when unfolded. In this embodiment, the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 are located between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3, which are located below the vertical center XC. According to this embodiment, the rigidity of the region between the folds where the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 are provided is locally increased, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape of that region.

[0073] Figure 8 shows the mask 1F according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 8(A) is a plan view, and Figure 8(B) is a cross-sectional view along the FF line shown in Figure 8(A). The mask 1F according to the sixth embodiment differs from the embodiments described above in the shape of the pleats. The pleats shown in Figure 1, etc., are folded in a mountain fold outwards in the vertical direction X, sandwiching the vertical center XC of the covering portion 2, and deform into an omega shape when worn. In contrast, the mask 1F shown in Figure 8 has pleated pleats that are folded in a mountain fold downwards, forming a cup shape that spreads downwards. The covering portion 2 has the following folds formed in the thickness direction Z, from the outside to the inside: a first fold F1 which is a valley fold VF, a second fold F2 which is a mountain fold MF, a third fold F3 which is a valley fold VF, a fourth fold F4 which is a mountain fold MF, a fifth fold F5 which is a mountain fold MF, a sixth fold F6 which is a valley fold VF, a seventh fold F7 which is a mountain fold MF, and an eighth fold F8 which is a valley fold VF.

[0074] The first joint portion 51 is located in the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2, and the second joint portion 52 is located in the region between the third fold F3 and the fourth fold F4. Of the regions located on either side of the downward-folded crease, the region located on the inside Z1 is the base point when deforming into a three-dimensional shape, and the region located on the outside Z2 is more likely to rise up with the region located on the inside Z1 as the base point. At this time, since the joint portion 50 is provided in the region located on the inside of the regions located on either side of the downward-folded crease, the downward-folded fold is more likely to stand up.

[0075] Figure 9 shows the mask 1G according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 9(A) is a rear view of the mask 1G, i.e., a view from the inside Z1, and Figure 9(B) is a cross-sectional view along the GG line shown in Figure 9(A). In the mask 1G according to the seventh embodiment, the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 are not located on the outer surface Z2 of the cover portion 2 in the unfolded state. Specifically, the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 are provided on the first base sheet 11, the second base sheet 12, and the third base sheet 13 in the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2. Outside Z2 of the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 is the region between the pair of first folds F1. Therefore, the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 are not exposed on the outer surface Z2 of the cover portion 2 in the unfolded state. According to this embodiment, the feel of the outer surface of the cover portion can be improved.

[0076] The first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 are not located on the inner surface Z1 of the cover portion in the unfolded state. Specifically, the region between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3 is located inward Z1 from the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52. Therefore, the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 are not exposed on the inner surface Z1 of the cover portion in the unfolded state.

[0077] The first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 are located in the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2. The region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2 is the region that supports the upright state of the region between the first fold F1 when worn. By providing the first joint portion 51 and the second joint portion 52 in this region, it is easier to support the upright state of the region between the first fold F1 that straddles the center of the vertical direction X of the cover portion 2.

[0078] The first joint 51 may be located above the vertical center XC, and the second joint 52 may be located below the vertical center XC. The area of ​​the second joint 52 may be larger than the area of ​​the first joint 51. The comparison of these areas may be made by comparing the total area of ​​the joints. In the case of a configuration in which multiple joints, such as the second joint 52, enclose a certain area in a linear fashion, the area of ​​the enclosed region may be used. When the mask is worn, the first joint 51, located above the vertical center XC, is easily positioned near the nose, and the second joint 52, located below the vertical center XC, is easily positioned near the mouth. The mouth has a larger volume of exhaled air compared to the nose, and the covering part 2 is more likely to stick to it. By increasing the area of ​​the second joint 52, located below the vertical center XC, the sticking of the covering part 2 can be suppressed even when the volume of inhaled air is large.

[0079] Figure 10 shows the mask 1H according to the eighth embodiment. Figure 10(A) is a rear view, i.e., a view from the inside Z1, and Figure 10(B) is a cross-sectional view along the HH line shown in Figure 10(A). The mask 1H according to the eighth embodiment, like the mask 1F shown in Figure 8, has pleated folds that are folded downward in a mountain fold, forming a cup shape that widens downward. While the mask 1F according to the sixth embodiment has four folds that are folded downward in a mountain fold, the mask 1H according to the eighth embodiment has three folds that are folded downward in a mountain fold.

[0080] The first joint 51 and the second joint 52 are positioned between the fourth fold F4 and the third fold F3. Both the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 are positioned only below the vertical center XC. By providing the joints only below the vertical center XC, it is possible to suppress the cover portion 2 from sticking to the opening with a large intake volume.

[0081] Although the present invention has been described in detail using the embodiments described above, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The present invention can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Therefore, the description herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be restrictive in any way to the present invention.

[0082] The first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may be asymmetrical with respect to the vertical center XC. More specifically, the shape of the first joint 51 may differ from the shape of the second joint 52, and the distance between the vertical center XC and the first joint 51 may differ from the distance between the vertical center XC and the second joint 52. Also, the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may be located on one side of the vertical center XC and not on the other side. Preferably, the first joint 51 and the second joint 52 may be located only below the vertical center XC. By providing the joints only below the vertical center XC, it is possible to suppress the cover portion 2 from sticking to openings with a large intake volume. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 1, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H: Mask 2: Covering part 10: Base sheet 15: Welded part 18 :Folds 50: Joint 51: 1st joint 52:Second joint MF: Mountain fold VF: Valley fold R11: 1st non-bonding area R12: 2nd non-bonding area R41: First layer region R42: Second layer region X: Vertical direction Y: Horizontal direction Z1: Inside Z2 :Outside

Claims

1. The vertical direction corresponds to the wearer's up and down movement, The lateral direction corresponding to the left-right direction of the wearer, It comprises multiple breathable base sheets and a covering portion that covers the wearer's mouth, The base sheet has pleated sections that are folded in a pleated manner starting from the folds that extend in the transverse direction, The covering portion has a first layered region and a second layered region that are adjacent to each other via the fold and overlap in a non-expanded state where the pleats are not unfolded. The covering portion is provided with a joining portion that extends in the lateral direction for joining the plurality of base material sheets, The joint portion is provided in only one of the first and second stacking regions, such that it does not straddle the fold in the unfolded state. The joint comprises a first joint and a second joint spaced apart from the first joint in the longitudinal direction. The first joint portion is arranged on both sides in the lateral direction, straddling the first non-jointed region which straddles the lateral center of the covering portion. The second joint portion is arranged on both sides in the lateral direction, straddling the second non-jointed region which straddles the lateral center of the covering portion. A mask in which the length of the first joint at the lateral inner edge of the first joint is longer than the length of the first joint at the lateral outer edge of the first joint.

2. The mask according to claim 1, wherein the distance between the outer edge of the first non-bonded region in the lateral direction and the outer edge of the base sheet is longer than the length of the first non-bonded region in the lateral direction.

3. The mask according to claim 2, wherein the first joint and the second joint pass through the lateral center of the covering portion and are symmetrical with respect to a lateral center line extending in the vertical direction.

4. The mask according to claim 3, wherein the lateral length of the first non-jointed region is 95% or more and 105% or less of the lateral length of the second non-jointed region.

5. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the lateral length of the first joint located on one side of the lateral center of the covering portion is longer than the lateral length of the first non-jointed region.

6. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the joint portion is positioned spaced apart from the fold when the pleat portion is unfolded.

7. The mask according to claim 6, wherein in the unfolded state, at least one fold is positioned between the first joint and the second joint.

8. The mask according to claim 7, wherein the fold positioned between the first joint and the second joint has a valley fold that folds the covering portion into a valley fold shape that protrudes inward in the vertical direction when the mask is not unfolded.

9. The aforementioned fold has multiple mountain folds that fold the covering portion into a mountain fold shape that protrudes outward in the vertical direction when it is not unfolded. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first joint and the second joint are positioned between the uppermost mountain fold and the lowermost mountain fold in the unfolded state.

10. One of the first and second joints is positioned between the upper mountain fold and a valley fold located below the upper mountain fold and adjacent to the upper mountain fold. The mask according to claim 9, wherein the other of the first joint and the second joint is positioned between the downhill fold and a valley fold located above the downhill fold and adjacent to the downhill fold.

11. In the unfolded state in which the pleats are unfolded, one of the first joint portion and the second joint portion is positioned in a region extending upward from the vertical center of the covering portion to 1 / 3 of the total length of the covering portion in the vertical direction, The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein in the unfolded state, the other of the first joint and the second joint is positioned in a region from the vertical center of the cover portion downwards to 1 / 3 of the total length of the cover portion in the vertical direction.

12. The covering portion is provided with a welded portion in which fibers are welded within a single layer of the base sheet without spanning multiple layers of the base sheet. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the welded portions are provided on both sides of the horizontal center of the covering portion, between the first and second joint portions in the vertical direction in the un-deployed state.

13. The aforementioned fold has multiple mountain folds that fold the covering portion into a mountain fold shape that protrudes outward in the vertical direction when it is not unfolded. The aforementioned mountain fold has a pair of central mountain folds arranged on both sides in the vertical direction, with the vertical center of the covering portion in between. The aforementioned joint is positioned between the first joint and the second joint in the unfolded state when the pleats are unfolded, and has a third joint provided between the pair of central mountain folds. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the third joint extends outward in the lateral direction beyond the first non-jointed region and the second non-jointed region.

14. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first joining portions are arranged in a plurality at intervals in the vertical direction between adjacent folds in the unfolded state.

15. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the joint portion is spaced apart from the lateral outer edge of the covering portion.

16. The first joint is located above the vertical center of the covering portion, The second joint is located below the vertical center of the covering portion, The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the area of ​​the second joint is larger than the area of ​​the first joint.

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