Mask

Abstract

Provided is a mask capable of maintaining a three-dimensional shape of a cover part while suppressing discomfort caused by the cover part during use. A mask (1) is provided with: a longitudinal direction (X) corresponding to the up-down direction of a wearer; a lateral direction (Y) corresponding to the left-right direction of the wearer; and a cover part (2) that has an air-permeable base material sheet (10) having fibers and covers the mouth of the wearer. The base material sheet has a pleat part folded in a pleated shape with a fold line extending in the lateral direction as a base point. Multiple layers of the base material sheet are layered in the thickness direction in an unextended state in which the pleat part is not expanded. The cover part is provided with a welded part (15) in which fibers are welded in one layer of the base material sheet without straddling two or more layers. The welded part is provided so as not to overlap in the thickness direction in the unextended state.

Description

Mask

[0001] The present invention relates to a mask.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a mask in which a breathable covering portion covering at least the lips and nostrils 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, and a flange portion is formed. When the mask is worn, at least a part of the flange portion is in a deployed and three - dimensional state. The mask of Patent Document 1 has a function of maintaining the three - dimensionality of the covering portion in a state where the flange portion is expanded during wearing. Specifically, a welded portion is provided which is formed by welding a continuous part or all of the plurality of non - woven fabric layers, and is configured to maintain a three - dimensional shape.

[0003] Utility Model Registration No. 3163625

[0004] However, the above - mentioned mask had room for improvement in the following points. The welded portion is formed across a continuous part or all of the plurality of non - woven fabric layers. The plurality of non - woven fabric layers laminated by the welded portion are joined, and the relative positions of the non - woven fabrics are fixed. Thus, while it becomes easier to maintain a three - dimensional shape, the relative positions of the non - woven fabrics cannot move, making it difficult to deform flexibly due to movements such as those of the mouth, and a sense of discomfort during wearing may occur. Also, since the welded portion extends across multiple layers, the rigidity of the welded portion may become too high, and a sense of discomfort during wearing may occur.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a mask that can maintain the three - dimensional shape of the covering portion while suppressing the sense of discomfort during wearing of the covering portion.

[0006] A mask according to one embodiment comprises a breathable base sheet having the fibers, a vertical direction corresponding to the wearer's up-and-down direction, a horizontal direction corresponding to the wearer's left-and-right direction, and a covering portion that covers the wearer's mouth. The base sheet has pleats folded in a pleated manner starting from folds extending in the horizontal direction, and is laminated in multiple layers in the thickness direction when the pleats are not unfolded. The covering portion is provided with welded portions in which the fibers are welded within a single layer of the base sheet without spanning the multiple layers. The welded portions are provided so as not to overlap in the thickness direction when the mask is not unfolded.

[0007] Figure 1 is a plan view of the mask according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the mask according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the mask according to the first embodiment after it has been transformed into a three-dimensional shape. Figure 4 is a magnified cross-sectional photograph showing the base sheet according to Examples 1 to 3 and the base sheet according to Comparative Example 1. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the mask according to the second embodiment. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the mask according to the third embodiment. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the mask according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the mask according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 9 is a diagram showing the mask according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the mask according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 11 is a diagram showing the mask according to the eighth embodiment. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the mask according to the ninth embodiment.

[0008] (1) Outline of Embodiments The following matters will become clear from the description in this specification and the attached drawings. The mask according to Embodiment 1 comprises a cover portion that covers the mouth of the wearer, having a breathable base sheet having the fibers, a vertical direction corresponding to the wearer's up and down direction, a horizontal direction corresponding to the wearer's left and right direction. The base sheet has pleats that are folded in a pleated manner starting from folds extending in the horizontal direction, and is laminated in multiple layers in the thickness direction when the pleats are not unfolded. The cover portion is provided with welded portions in which the fibers are welded within a single layer of the base sheet without spanning the multiple layers. The welded portions are arranged so as not to overlap in the thickness direction when the mask is not unfolded. According to this embodiment, by providing welded portions in the cover portion, regions with increased rigidity of the base sheet are formed, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape of the mask. Since the welded portions are arranged without spanning multiple layers, the formation of regions with locally increased rigidity is suppressed, and discomfort when wearing the mask can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the welded portion is formed in only one layer and does not span multiple layers, it does not hinder the relative movement between layers, allowing the covering to easily deform flexibly in response to mouth movements, thus reducing discomfort when worn. Because the welded portion does not overlap in the thickness direction when not deployed, it prevents the formation of areas with locally high rigidity even when the pleats are closed, thus reducing discomfort when worn.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to Embodiment 2 may have the following features in the invention according to Embodiment 1. The cover portion may be provided with a welded region in which the welded portion is located in any region in the thickness direction when viewed from above in the unfolded state, and a non-welded region in which the welded portion is not located in any region in the thickness direction when viewed from above in the unfolded state. In the unfolded state, the area of ​​the non-welded region is larger than the area of ​​the welded region. According to this embodiment, since the area of ​​the non-welded region in relation to the entire cover portion is larger than the area of ​​the welded region, it is possible to maintain the three-dimensional shape while suppressing the rigidity of the entire cover portion.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 3 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 2. The covering portion has a lateral side region extending inward in the lateral direction from the lateral outer edge of the covering portion. The lateral side region is provided with only the non-welded region of the welded region and the non-welded region. The lateral side region is a region extending inward in the lateral direction from the lateral outer edge of the covering portion, and is a region that is not positioned far from the face but is easily in close contact with the cheek. By providing only a non-welded region in the lateral side region without a welded region, the contact with the cheek can be softened and discomfort during wear can be suppressed.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 4 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 2 or embodiment 3. The covering portion has a vertical side region extending inward in the vertical direction from the vertical outer edge of the covering portion. In the vertical side region, only the non-welded region is formed among the welded region and the non-welded region. According to this embodiment, the vertical side region is a region extending inward in the vertical direction from the vertical outer edge of the covering portion, and is a region that is not positioned far from the face but is easily in close contact with the nose and chin. By providing only a non-welded region in the vertical side region without providing a welded region, the contact with the nose and chin is softened, and discomfort during wear can be suppressed.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to Embodiment 5 may have the following features in the invention according to any of Embodiments 2 to 4: The non-welded region has a central non-welded region provided at the lateral center of the cover portion. The welded region has side welded regions provided on both sides in the lateral direction relative to the central non-welded region. According to this embodiment, the central non-welded region provided at the lateral center of the cover portion deforms to easily form a three-dimensional shape with the lateral center of the cover portion as the apex. Furthermore, since side welded regions are provided on both sides in the lateral direction relative to the central non-welded region, the side welded regions support both sides of the apex of the three-dimensional shape, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 6 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 5: The lateral length of the side welded region is longer than the vertical length of the side welded region. According to this embodiment, by ensuring the lateral length of the side welded region, the deformation of the central non-welded region is supported over a wide lateral range by the side welded region, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 7 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 5 or embodiment 6: The central non-welded region extends in the vertical direction across a plurality of folds. According to this embodiment, the deformation of the central non-welded region can form a deformation with the lateral center of the covering portion as the apex, across a plurality of folds, thereby realizing a curved shape that bulges laterally with the central non-welded region as the apex, and a curved shape that bulges vertically with the folds as the starting point.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 8 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 6: The fold has a mountain fold that folds the covering portion into a mountain fold shape that protrudes outward in the vertical direction. The welded portion is provided in an area other than the inner region folded inward by the mountain fold. According to this embodiment, since the welded portion is not provided in the inner region, the inner region is easily deformed when unfolding from the mountain fold as a starting point, making it easier to unfold from the mountain fold as a starting point.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 9 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 8: The welded portion extends in the longitudinal direction across a plurality of folds. According to this embodiment, the welded portion is formed on the fold itself, which can increase the rigidity of the fold. Therefore, a force acts to support the fold, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain space around the mouth.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 10 may have the following features in the invention according to any of embodiments 1 to 9. The covering portion has an outer surface located on the outermost side and an inner surface located on the innermost side. The welded portion is spaced apart from at least one of the outer surface and the inner surface. In the embodiment in which the welded portion is spaced apart from the inner surface of the covering portion, discomfort caused by the relatively rigid welded portion touching the face can be suppressed. Furthermore, in the embodiment in which the welded portion is spaced apart from the outer surface, discomfort caused by the relatively rigid welded portion touching the hand during the fitting process can be suppressed.

[0018] 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. The cover portion has a plurality of base material sheets. The cover portion is provided with a base material joining portion that extends in the lateral direction, formed by joining the plurality of base material sheets. The cover portion has a first laminated region and a second laminated region that are adjacent to each other via the fold and overlap in the un-unfolded state. The base material joining portion is provided in only one of the first laminated region and the second laminated region, such that it does not straddle the fold in the un-unfolded state. Because the base material joining portion joins a plurality of 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 that covers the mouth. Furthermore, by providing a base material joining portion that extends in the lateral direction in the cover portion, a region with increased rigidity can be formed over a certain range of the cover portion that extends in the lateral direction. The presence of the base material joining portion provides a force that supports the fold, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain the space around the mouth. Since the base material joining portion is provided without spanning the first and second layering regions, and without crossing the folds, the presence of the base material joining portion does not hinder the unfolding of the pleats, making it easier to unfold the fabric from the folds when worn, and making it easier to form a three-dimensional space that covers the mouth.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 12 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 11. The covering portion is provided with a non-welded region in which, in a plan view in the un-deployed state, the welded portion is not provided in any region in the thickness direction. The base material joining portion is provided in a part of the non-welded region. According to this embodiment, by providing the base material joining portion in the non-welded region, when the non-welded region deforms, it is possible to suppress the lifting of the base material sheet in the non-welded region and to easily maintain the space at the opening.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 13 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 12: The area of ​​the base material joint provided within the non-welded region is 20% or less of the area of ​​the non-welded region. According to this embodiment, because the area ratio of the base material joint within the non-welded region is low, the deformation of the non-welded region due to the presence of the base material joint is suppressed, and a three-dimensional shape can be formed by the deformation of the non-welded region.

[0021] 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 fold has an upper fold and a lower fold adjacent in the vertical direction when unfolded with the fold as the base point. The vertical distance between the upper fold and the lower fold in the region where the welded portion is provided between the upper fold and the lower fold is shorter than the vertical distance between the upper fold and the lower fold in the region where the welded portion is not provided between the upper fold and the lower fold. According to this embodiment, in the region where the welded portion is provided between the upper fold and the lower fold, the distance between the folds is short and the density of fibers in the base sheet is high. Therefore, the rigidity of the region where the welded portion is provided is increased, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape.

[0022] 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 base sheet has wrinkles extending laterally in a region extending laterally outward from the laterally outer edge of the welded portion. According to this embodiment, the region extending laterally outward from the welded portion becomes more easily deformable, with the wrinkles formed in the material sheet serving as deformation reference points. The area around the welded portion becomes more easily deformable, making it easier to form the three-dimensional shape of the covering portion.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 16 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 15: The wrinkles extend from the outside in the lateral direction toward the inside in the lateral direction, and from the outside in the vertical direction toward the inside in the vertical direction. According to this embodiment, in the region outside the welded portion in the lateral direction, the wrinkles extend from the inside in the vertical direction toward the outside, and from the inside in the lateral direction toward the outside, so that deformation base points are created around the welded portion, making it easier to form the three-dimensional shape of the cover. In addition, since wrinkles are formed on all four sides of the welded portion, the wrinkles extend radially, making it easier to form a dome-shaped three-dimensional shape.

[0024] (2) Mask according to the first embodiment Hereinafter, the mask 1 will be described according to the first embodiment with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, the same 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 etc. may differ from those in reality. Therefore, specific dimensions etc. should be determined by referring to the following explanation. In addition, there may be parts where the relationships and ratios of dimensions to each other 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(A) is a schematic cross-sectional view along the line A-A shown in Figure 1, and Figure 2(B) is a schematic cross-sectional view along the line B-B 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.

[0025] 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).

[0026] The covering portion 2 has a breathable base sheet 10. The base sheet 10 may be one sheet or multiple sheets. In this embodiment, the covering portion 2 has a first base sheet 11, a second base sheet 12, and a third base sheet 13. The first base sheet 11 is arranged on the outer surface of the covering portion 2. The third base sheet 13 is arranged on the inner surface of the covering portion 2. The second base sheet 12 is arranged between the first base sheet 11 and the third base sheet 13.

[0027] The covering 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 covering portion 2 in the horizontal direction Y, and extends horizontally in the Y direction at both ends of the covering portion 2 in the horizontal direction X, with two portions extending horizontally in the Y direction at each end.

[0028] 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 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.

[0029] The base sheet 10 is preferably a soft sheet to provide a good feel to the skin. Specifically, the torque value of the cover portion may be 6.1 or less. The torque value can be measured using an Imada torque tester (EX-0762) under the following measurement conditions: Rotation speed: 50 rpm Check interval: 120 mm Torque screw: 15 Tension: 1-2 Rotation angle (measurement angle): 75° (70°) Sample: Cut out a 30 mm section from the vertical center XC of the cover portion, both above and below, to use as a measurement sample.

[0030] Table 1 shows the torque values ​​of the covering portion and the evaluation results of the feel of the surface for Examples 1 to 6. For the evaluation of skin feel, testers wore masks with each sample placed on the inside and evaluated whether they felt any discomfort when opening and closing their mouths or speaking. If eight or more testers judged that there was no discomfort in any movement, it was marked with a circle (○); if five or more testers judged that there was no discomfort, it was marked with a triangle (△). From these evaluation results, it was found that a torque value of 6.10 or less for the base sheet is preferable.

[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 plurality of 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 not shown.

[0032] In its pre-use state, as shown in Figure 1, the base sheet 10 of the mask 1 has pleated portions 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 portions 18 are not unfolded. When the mask is used, the base sheet unfolds from the folds, causing the covering portion 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 portions 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 seventh embodiment. Furthermore, masks of other embodiments may have pleated folds 18 that are folded in a mountain fold only upwards.

[0035] The covering portion 2 has an inner region R31 that is folded inward by a mountain fold MF. The inner region R31 is the region up to the valley fold that folds that region, within the region that is folded inward by the mountain fold MF. In this embodiment, the inner region is the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2 and the region between the third fold F3 and the fourth fold F4.

[0036] The first fold F1 is provided in pairs on either side of the vertical center XC in the vertical direction X of the covering portion 2. The second fold F2 folds the area extending inward from the first fold F1 in the vertical direction X toward the inside Z1 in the thickness direction 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 Z1 in the thickness direction and toward the inside in the vertical direction X. The third fold F3 is located further outward in the vertical direction X than the first fold F1. The fourth fold F4 folds the area extending inward from the third fold F3 in the vertical direction X toward the inside Z1 in the thickness direction and toward the outside in the vertical direction X. The fourth fold F4 is located further outward in the vertical direction X than the second fold F2. These mountain folds MF and valley folds VF form a pleated portion 18.

[0037] 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 of the fourth fold F4.

[0038] The base sheet 10 is laminated in multiple layers in the thickness direction Z when the pleats 18 are not unfolded. The state of being laminated in multiple layers is a state in which the base sheets overlap in the thickness direction Z, and includes not only the state in which different base sheets (for example, a first base sheet and a second base sheet) overlap in the thickness direction Z, but also the state in which the same base sheet (for example, a first base sheet) overlaps in the thickness direction Z by being folded. In this embodiment, the cover portion 2 has three layers, a first base sheet 11, a second base sheet 12, and a third base sheet 13, arranged throughout the entire area of ​​the cover portion 2, and is laminated in multiple layers throughout the entire cover portion 2. In addition, each base sheet is laminated by being folded along the folds, and the area laminated by being folded is also laminated in multiple layers.

[0039] The covering portion 2 has a lateral side region RY extending inward in the lateral direction Y from the outer edge of the covering portion 2 in the lateral direction Y. The lateral side region RY is the region from the outer edge of the covering portion 2 in the lateral direction Y to 30 mm inward in the lateral direction Y. The covering portion 2 also has a vertical side region RX extending inward in the vertical direction X from the outer edge of the covering portion 2 in the vertical direction X. The vertical side region RX may be the region between the outer edge of the covering portion 2 in the vertical direction X and the fold located on the outermost side of the region extending inward in the vertical direction X from the outer edge. In this embodiment, the vertical side region RX is the region between the outer edge of the covering portion 2 in the vertical direction X and the fourth fold F4.

[0040] The mask 1 of this embodiment is configured to maintain the three-dimensional shape of the covering portion 2 while suppressing discomfort when wearing the covering portion 2. Next, the configuration for maintaining the three-dimensional shape of the covering portion 2 while suppressing discomfort when wearing the covering portion 2 will be described in detail. The covering portion 2 is provided with a welded portion 15 in which fibers are welded within a single base sheet 10 without spanning multiple layers. The welded portion 15 is a region in which the fibers of the base sheet 10 are welded. The welded portion 15 may be a portion in which the fibers of the base sheet are welded by heat welding, or it may be a portion in which the fibers of the base sheet are welded by another method (for example, ultrasonic welding).

[0041] The welded portion 15 is formed on only one of the multiple base sheets 10, and does not span across multiple base sheets 10. In a configuration 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 hinder 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. In a modified example, the welded portion 15 may be provided on the third base sheet 13, and not on the second base sheet 12 and the first base sheet 11. The welded portion may be linear in plan view, or it may be planar in shape such as a rectangle, as in the embodiment.

[0042] The welded portions 15 are arranged so as not to overlap in the thickness direction Z when the sheet is not unfolded. In this 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 them from the fold. However, by providing a welded section on only one of the overlapping layers from the fold, 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 a starting point, making it easier to unfold from the fold.

[0043] By providing the welded portion 15 in the covering portion 2, a region with increased rigidity of the base material sheet 10 is formed, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape of the mask 1. In particular, in the case of a mask using a relatively soft base material sheet, while the tactile feel can be improved, there is a risk that it may be difficult to maintain the three-dimensional shape of the mask. However, by providing the welded portion, the rigidity of the portions necessary for forming the three-dimensional shape can be increased by the welded portion, and both the tactile feel and the effect of maintaining the shape can be achieved. Further, in the form in which the welded portion 15 is formed across a plurality of layers, the welded portion across the plurality of layers has locally higher rigidity compared to the surroundings, and a sense of discomfort is likely to occur during wearing. However, since the welded portion 15 of the present embodiment is provided without spanning across a plurality of layers, the formation of a region with locally increased rigidity can be suppressed, and the sense of discomfort during wearing can be suppressed. Further, in the form in which the welded portion 15 spans across a plurality of layers, relative movement between the layers across which the welded portion 15 is formed is suppressed. However, since the welded portion 15 of the present embodiment is formed in only one layer without spanning across a plurality of layers, it does not inhibit relative movement between the layers, and the covering portion 2 can easily deform flexibly according to movements of the mouth or the like, and the sense of discomfort during wearing can be suppressed. Since the welded portions do not overlap in the thickness direction, the formation of a region with locally increased rigidity can be suppressed, and the sense of discomfort during wearing can be suppressed.

[0044] Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, a preferred configuration will be described. The welded portion 15 may be provided over the entire thickness direction of the base material sheet 10, or may be provided in a partial region. FIG. 4 shows cross-sectional photographs of the base material sheets of Examples 1 to 3 and a cross-sectional photograph of the base material sheet according to Comparative Example 1. When the surface of the base material sheet is defined as the first surface and the second surface, in Example 1, the welded portion is provided only on the first surface, in Example 2, the welded portion is provided only on the second surface, and in Example 3, the welded portion is provided on both the first surface and the second surface. The region surrounded by the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 4 is the welded portion 15. In Comparative Example 1, the welded portion 15 is not provided on either the first surface or the second surface.

[0045] Table 2 is a table showing the KES bending rigidity values of the masks according to Examples 1 to 3 and the bending rigidity value of the mask according to Comparative Example 1 (B[×10 －6[N·m]). The mask according to Example 1 is a mask in which the base sheet of Example 1 (welding part only on the first surface) is arranged on the outer surface of the mask. The mask according to Example 2 is a mask in which the base sheet of Example 2 (welding part only on the second surface) is arranged on the outer surface of the mask. The mask according to Example 3 is a mask in which the base sheet of Example 3 (welding parts on both the first surface and the second surface) is arranged on the outer surface of the mask. The mask according to Comparative Example 1 does not have a welding part provided on the first base sheet. The masks according to Example 1 to Example 3 and Comparative Example 1 have the same configuration except for any of the first base sheets.

[0046] The measurement of the bending rigidity value is such that at the position overlapping the welding part in the region between the first folds, with the first surface arranged on the outside, the rigidity value when bent outward is defined as the rigidity value B+, and the rigidity value when bent inward is defined as the rigidity value B-. From the measurement results, it was found that by providing a welding part on at least one of the first surface and the second surface, the rigidity can be locally increased.

[0047]

[0048] The covering portion 2 may be provided with a welding region R10 and a non-welding region R20. That is, the welding region R10 is not provided over the entire area of the covering portion 2 in the non-expanded state, and may be provided in a partial region. The welding region R10 is a region where the welding part 15 is provided in any region in the thickness direction Z in a plan view of the non-expanded state, and is the region hatched in FIG. 1. The non-welding region R20 is a region where the welding part 15 is not provided in any region in the thickness direction Z in a plan view of the non-expanded state, and is the region not hatched in FIG. 1. In FIG. 2, the ranges in the longitudinal direction X of the welding region R10 and the non-welding region R20 in each cross section are shown.

[0049] In the unfolded state, the area of ​​the non-welded region R20 may be larger than the area of ​​the welded region R10. According to this embodiment, since the area of ​​the non-welded region R20 in relation to the entire cover portion 2 is larger than the area of ​​the welded region R10, it is possible to maintain the three-dimensional shape while suppressing the rigidity of the entire cover portion 2. In the unfolded state, the ratio of the area of ​​the welded region R10 to the total area of ​​the cover portion 2 may be less than 50%, and preferably 40% or less. Furthermore, in order to suitably obtain the effect of maintaining the three-dimensional shape by the welded portion 15, the ratio of the area of ​​the welded region R10 to the total area of ​​the cover portion 2 may be 20% or more, and preferably 25% or more.

[0050] In the lateral side region RY, only the non-welded region R20 may be provided, out of the welded region R10 and the non-welded region R20. The lateral side region RY is a region that extends from the outer edge of the lateral direction Y of the covering portion 2 to the inside of the lateral direction Y, and is a region that is not located far from the face and easily adheres to the cheek. By providing only the non-welded region R20 in the lateral side region RY without providing the welded region R10, the contact with the cheek can be softened and discomfort during wear can be suppressed. The lateral side region RY is provided at both ends of the lateral direction Y of the covering portion 2. The non-welded region R20 may be provided throughout the entire area of ​​at least one of the lateral side regions, but preferably it may be provided throughout the entire area of ​​both lateral side regions RY.

[0051] In the vertical side region RX, only the non-welded region R20 may be provided, out of the welded region R10 and the non-welded region R20. The vertical side region RX is a region that extends from the outer edge in the vertical direction X of the covering portion 2 inward in the vertical direction X, and is a region that is not positioned far from the face but easily adheres to the nose and chin. By providing only the non-welded region R20 in the vertical side region RX without providing the welded region R10, the contact with the nose and chin can be softened, and discomfort during wear can be suppressed. The vertical side region RX is provided at both ends in the vertical direction X of the covering portion 2. The non-welded region R20 may be provided throughout the entire area of ​​at least one of the vertical side regions, but preferably it may be provided throughout the entire area of ​​both vertical side regions RX.

[0052] The non-welded region R20 may have a central non-welded region R21 located at the lateral center YC, which is the center of the lateral direction Y of the cover portion 2. The lateral center YC of the cover portion 2 extends in the vertical direction X. It is sufficient that the central non-welded region R21 is provided in at least a part of the lateral center YC. In this embodiment, the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2 is provided with a welded region R10 and a non-welded region R20. Side welded regions R11 may be provided on both sides of the lateral direction Y with respect to the central non-welded region R21. According to this embodiment, the deformation of the central non-welded region R21 makes it easy to form a three-dimensional shape with the center of the lateral direction Y of the cover portion 2 as its apex. Furthermore, since side welded regions R11 are provided on both sides of the lateral direction Y with respect to the central non-welded region R21, the side welded regions R11 support both sides of the apex of the three-dimensional shape, making it easy to maintain the three-dimensional shape.

[0053] In this embodiment, a welded portion 15 is provided in the region between the pair of first folds F1, spaced apart in the lateral direction Y. This welded portion 15 constitutes a side welded region R11, and the region sandwiched between the side welded regions R11 constitutes a central non-welded region R21. In the unfolded state, a welded region R10 is provided in the region sandwiched between the first fold F1 and the third fold F3, straddling the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2. Non-welded regions R20 are provided on both sides of the welded region R10 in the lateral direction Y. In the unfolded state, a non-welded region R20 is provided over the entire lateral direction Y of the cover portion 2 in the region outside the third fold F3 in the vertical direction X.

[0054] The length of the side welding region R11 in the lateral direction Y may be longer than the length of the side welding region R11 in the vertical direction X. According to this embodiment, by ensuring the length of the side welding region R11 in the lateral direction Y, the deformation of the central non-welded region R21 is supported over a wide range in the lateral direction Y by the side welding region R11, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape.

[0055] The welded portion 15 may be provided in an area other than the inner region R31 that is folded inward by the mountain fold MF. In other words, the welded portion 15 may be provided in at least one of the following areas in the unfolded state: the area between the pair of first folds F1, the area between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3, and the area between the fourth fold F4 and the outer edge of the cover portion 2 in the vertical direction X. According to this embodiment, since the welded portion 15 is not provided in the inner region R31, the inner region R31 is more easily deformed when unfolding with the mountain fold MF as the starting point, making it easier to unfold with the mountain fold MF as the starting point.

[0056] The welded portion 15 may be spaced apart from at least one of the outer surface and inner surface of the cover portion 2. In this embodiment, the welded portion 15 is provided on the outer surface of the cover portion 2 and spaced apart from the inner surface of the cover portion 2. According to this embodiment, discomfort caused by the relatively rigid welded portion touching the face can be suppressed. In other embodiments, the welded portion may be spaced apart from the outer surface of the cover portion 2. According to this embodiment, discomfort caused by the relatively rigid welded portion touching the hand during attachment or other operations can be suppressed.

[0057] (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 with the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted. Masks according to the second to eighth embodiments will be described based on Figures 5 to 11.

[0058] Figure 5 shows the mask 1B according to the second embodiment. Figure 5(A) is a plan view, and Figure 5(B) is a cross-sectional view along the line C-C shown in Figure 5(A). The central non-welded region R21 of the mask 1B according to the second embodiment extends vertically across a plurality of folds. The central non-welded region R21 only needs to span at least two or more folds, but preferably it may be provided over the entire area of ​​the horizontal center YC. According to this embodiment, the deformation of the central non-welded region R21 allows deformation with the horizontal center YC of the covering portion 2 as the apex to be formed across a plurality of folds, and it is possible to realize a curved shape that bulges in the horizontal direction Y with the central non-welded region R21 as the apex, and a curved shape that bulges in the vertical direction with the folds as the starting points.

[0059] A welding region R10 may be provided continuously in the vertical direction X outside the lateral direction Y of the central non-welded region R21. With this configuration, the welding region R10 continuous in the vertical direction X can support the deformation caused by the central non-welded region R21, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape.

[0060] Figure 6 shows a mask 1C according to the third embodiment. Figure 6(A) is a plan view, and Figure 6(B) is a cross-sectional view along the line D-D shown in Figure 6(A). The welded portion of the mask 1C according to the third embodiment is provided on the third base sheet 13, and not on the first base sheet 11 and the second base sheet 12. This configuration increases the rigidity of the inner surface of the mask 1, maintains the three-dimensional shape of the inner surface of the mask, and makes it difficult for the base sheet to stick to the mouth. In other embodiments, the welded portion 15 may not be provided on the first base sheet 11 and the third base sheet 13, but on the second base sheet 12.

[0061] Figure 7 shows a mask 1D according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 7(A) is a plan view, and Figure 7(B) is a cross-sectional view along the line E-E shown in Figure 7(A). The welded portion of the mask 1D according to the fourth embodiment extends along the lateral direction Y. According to this embodiment, since the welded portion 15 extends in the lateral direction Y, a force acts to support the folds of the pleat portion 18, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain space around the mouth. In a modified example, the welded portion 15 may include both a welded portion extending in the vertical direction and a welded portion extending in the horizontal direction.

[0062] Figure 8 shows the mask 1E according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8(A) is a plan view, and Figure 8(B) is a cross-sectional view along the line F-F shown in Figure 8(A). The welding region R10 of the mask 1E according to the fifth embodiment is provided across the fold when not unfolded. With this configuration, a welding portion is formed on the fold itself, which can increase the rigidity of the fold. Therefore, a force acts to support the fold, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain space around the mouth.

[0063] Figure 9 shows a mask 1F according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 9(A) is a plan view, and Figure 9(B) is a perspective view of the mask after it has been transformed into a three-dimensional shape. The mask 1F according to the sixth embodiment has side welding regions R11 arranged on both sides in the lateral direction Y with respect to the central non-welded region R21. In addition, welding regions R10 are provided on both sides in the vertical direction X with respect to the central non-welded region R21, straddling the lateral center YC. The welding regions R10 on both sides in the vertical direction X with respect to the central non-welded region R21 are provided in the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2. The side welding region R11 straddles the region between the pair of first folds F1 and the region extending outward from the first fold F1 in the vertical direction X. Therefore, a part of the side welding region R11 and the welding regions R10 on both sides in the vertical direction X with respect to the central non-welded region R21 are adjacent in the lateral direction. According to this configuration, since the welded portion 15 is provided surrounding the central non-welded region R21, the central non-welded region R21 becomes more easily deformed.

[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9(B), the area where a part of the side welded area R11 and the welded areas R10 on both sides in the vertical direction X relative to the central non-welded area R21 are adjacent is provided in a part of the area between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3. The welded area in the area between the second fold F2 and the third fold is provided in the area between the first fold F1 and the third fold in the unfolded state, within the area between the second fold F2 and the third fold F3. The adjacent area above the vertical center XC of the cover part 2 is easily positioned around the nose. Therefore, the space covering the nose is more easily maintained. Also, the adjacent area below the vertical center XC of the cover part 2 is easily positioned around the mouth. Therefore, the space covering the mouth is more easily maintained.

[0065] Figure 10 shows a mask 1G according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 10(A) is a plan view, and Figure 10(B) is a cross-sectional view along the line H-H shown in Figure 10(A). The mask 1G according to the seventh 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 1G shown in Figure 10 has pleated pleats that are folded downwards in a mountain fold, forming a cup shape that spreads downwards. The covering portion 2 has the following folds formed from the outside to the inside in the thickness direction Z: 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. The welding region R10 is located in the region between the first fold F1 and the third fold F3, the region between the third fold F3 and the fifth fold F5, and the region between the fifth fold F5 and the seventh fold.

[0066] The welding region R10 includes side welding regions R11 located on both sides of the horizontal center YC, and a welding region positioned across the horizontal center YC. The side welding regions R11 are provided in the region extending upward from the third fold F3, specifically the region below the first fold F1 in the unfolded state, and in the region extending upward from the fifth fold F5, specifically the region below the third fold F3 in the unfolded state. The welding region positioned across the horizontal center YC is provided in the region extending upward from the first fold F1, and in the region extending upward from the fifth fold F5, specifically the region below the third fold F3 in the unfolded state.

[0067] Figure 11 shows a mask 1H according to the eighth embodiment. Figure 11(A) is a plan view, and Figure 11(B) is a cross-sectional view along the line J-J shown in Figure 11(A). The mask 1 according to the eighth embodiment has a plurality of base material sheets and is provided with a base material joining portion 50 that joins the plurality of base material sheets 10. The base material joining portion 50 is configured to join all of the plurality of base material sheets 10. Specifically, in the form having first to third base material sheets, the base material joining portion 50 joins the first to third base material sheets, and in the form having first to second base material sheets, it joins the first to second base material sheets. Because the base material joining portion 50 joins a plurality of base material sheets, it is possible to suppress some of the base material sheets from floating towards the mouth, and it is easier to maintain the space that covers the mouth.

[0068] The base material joining portion 50 can be formed by joining multiple base material sheets 10, and the joining method is not limited. The base material joining portion 50 may be a portion in which the base material sheets are joined together by ultrasonic waves, or it may be a portion in which the base material sheets are joined together by other methods (e.g., heat welding, adhesive).

[0069] The base material joining portion 50 extends in the lateral direction Y, and may extend in a straight line along the lateral direction Y. The base material joining portion 50 may extend parallel to the lateral direction Y, or it may extend laterally while being inclined with respect to the lateral direction Y. Preferably, the direction in which the base material joining 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 base material joining portion 50 extending in the lateral direction Y, a force supporting the fold is exerted by the base material joining portion 50, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain space around the mouth.

[0070] The covering portion 2 has a first layered region R41 and a second layered region R42 that are adjacent to each other via a fold when the pleated portion 18 is unfolded, and overlap when the pleated portion 18 is not unfolded. 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.

[0071] 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 F2 via the first fold F1. The region sandwiched between the pair of first folds F1 constitutes the first stacked region R41, and a portion of the region between the first fold F1 and the second fold F2 (the region in the vertical direction X in the unfolded state that is inward of the first fold F1) constitutes the second stacked 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 in the vertical direction X in the unfolded state that is inward of the fourth fold F4) constitutes the first stacked region R41, and the region between the third fold F3 and the fourth fold F4 constitutes the second stacked 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 outer edge of the cover portion 2 in the vertical direction X, 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 outer edge of the cover portion 2 in the vertical direction X. A portion of the region between the fourth fold F4 and the outer edge of the cover portion in the vertical direction X (the region inward in the vertical direction X 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 one base sheet 10 is arranged in each laminated region.

[0072] The base material joining portion 50 is provided in only one of the first laminated region R41 and the second laminated region R42, so as not to straddle the fold. For example, the base material joining portion 50 provided in the first laminated region R41 does not straddle the second laminated region R42, and the base material joining portion 50 provided in the second laminated region R42 does not straddle the first laminated region R41. Furthermore, the base material joining portion 50 does not straddle the fold in the unfolded state. Therefore, the joining portion does not hinder the separation of overlapping laminated regions in the unfolded state, nor does it hinder the unfolding of the pleats starting from the fold. Thus, the presence of the base material joining portion 50 does not hinder the unfolding of the pleats 18, 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.

[0073] The base material joint 50 may have 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 unfolded, but preferably they need to be spaced apart in the vertical direction X even when unfolded. Furthermore, the base material 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 X from the first joint 51 and the second joint 52. In this embodiment, the base material joint 50 has a first joint 51, a second joint 52 and a third joint 53 from top to bottom, and each base material joint is spaced apart in the vertical direction X when unfolded.

[0074] In this embodiment, the first joint portion 51 is located above the first fold F1, which is located above the vertical center XC, and below the third fold F3, when the paper is folded. The second joint portion 52 extends along the vertical center XC. The third joint portion 53 is located below the first fold F1, which is located below the vertical center XC, and above the third fold, when the paper is folded.

[0075] The first joint 51 and the third joint 53 are positioned on both sides in the lateral direction, flanking the welded region R10 which straddles the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2, and do not overlap the welded region R10 which straddles the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2. The first joint 51 and the third joint 53 form a region with increased rigidity along the lateral direction, located laterally outside the welded region R10, providing a force to support folds and making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape of the mask. The second joint 52 extends laterally across the central non-welded region R21 at the vertical center XC. It forms a region with increased rigidity along the lateral direction at the vertical center XC of the mask, providing a force to support folds and making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape and retain space around the mouth.

[0076] The inner lateral end of the first joint is positioned close to the outer lateral edge of the welding region R10 that straddles the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2, and the inner lateral end of the third joint 53 is positioned close to the outer lateral edge of the welding region R10 that straddles the lateral center YC of the cover portion 2. The lateral position of the inner edge of the first joint and the lateral position of the inner edge of the third joint coincide, and they are separated from each other in the vertical direction, so they are easily deformed into a three-dimensional shape with a virtual line connecting the inner edges of the first joint and the inner edges of the third joint as the starting point.

[0077] The base material joining portion 50 may be provided in a part of the non-welded region R20. In this embodiment, the second joining portion 52 is provided in a part of the central non-welded region R21, and the first joining portion 51 and the third joining portion 53 are provided in parts of the non-welded region R20 located on both sides of the lateral direction Y with respect to the welded region R10 that straddles the lateral center YC. According to this embodiment, by providing the base material joining portion 50 in the non-welded region R20, when the non-welded region R20 deforms, it is possible to suppress the lifting of the base material sheet 10 in the non-welded region R20 and make it easier to maintain the space at the opening.

[0078] The area of ​​the base material joining portion 50 provided within the non-welded region R20 may be 20% or less of the area of ​​the non-welded region R20. According to this embodiment, because the area ratio of the base material joining portion 50 within the non-welded region R20 is low, the presence of the base material joining portion 50 suppresses the difficulty of deformation of the non-welded region R20, and a three-dimensional shape can be formed by the deformation of the non-welded region R20.

[0079] Figure 12 shows a mask 1J according to the ninth embodiment. In the mask 1J according to the ninth embodiment, the distance in the vertical direction X between the upper fold and the lower fold is varied. The folds have adjacent upper and lower folds when unfolded. There are multiple combinations of upper and lower folds; for example, if the first fold above the vertical center XC is the upper fold, then the first fold below the vertical center XC becomes the lower fold. Also, the first and second folds may constitute the upper and lower folds, the second and third folds may constitute the upper and lower folds, and the third and fourth folds may constitute the upper and lower folds. In the form shown in Figure 12, the upper fold is formed by the first fold F1 above the vertical center XC, and the lower fold is formed by the first fold F1 below the vertical center XC.

[0080] As shown in Figure 12, the vertical distance X15 between the upper and lower folds in region R15 where a welded portion 15 is provided between the upper and lower folds may be shorter than the vertical distance X16 between the upper and lower folds in region R16 where a welded portion 15 is not provided between the upper and lower folds. When comparing distances, the comparison should be made in regions where only the presence or absence of a welded portion differs, that is, in regions where the main body joint portion 7 and the ear-hook joint portion 25 are not provided. Furthermore, the comparison may be made using the shortest distance. According to this embodiment, in region R15 where a welded portion 15 is provided between the upper and lower folds, the distance between the folds is short, and the fiber density of the base sheet 10 is high. Therefore, the rigidity of the region where the welded portion 15 is provided is increased, making it easier to maintain the three-dimensional shape.

[0081] A lateral wrinkle 19 may be formed on the base sheet 10 in a region extending outward in the lateral direction Y from the outer edge of the welded portion 15 in the lateral direction Y. The wrinkle 19 and the welded portion 15 may be formed on the same base sheet, and in the ninth embodiment, the wrinkle and welded portion are formed on the first base sheet 11. The wrinkle may extend in the lateral direction Y on the outside of the lateral direction Y relative to the welded portion. The wrinkle 19 may extend parallel to the lateral direction Y, or it may be inclined in the lateral direction Y at an angle of 45 degrees or less relative to the lateral direction Y. According to this embodiment, the region extending outward in the lateral direction from the welded portion becomes easier to deform, using the wrinkle 19 formed on the material sheet 10 as a deformation base point. The area around the welded portion becomes easier to deform, making it easier to form the three-dimensional shape of the cover portion.

[0082] The wrinkles 19 may extend from the outside in the lateral direction Y toward the inside in the lateral direction, and from the outside in the vertical direction toward the inside in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, in the region outside the lateral direction Y of the welded portion 15, the wrinkles extend outward from the center side of the vertical direction X of the welded portion 15, and from the inside in the lateral direction toward the outside, so that deformation base points are created around the welded portion 15, making it easier to form the three-dimensional shape of the cover portion 10. In addition, in the form in which wrinkles are formed on all four sides of the welded portion 15, the wrinkles extend radially, making it easier to form a dome-shaped three-dimensional shape.

[0083] 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.

[0084] Furthermore, the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-190777, filed on October 30, 2024, are incorporated herein by reference.

[0085] This allows us to provide a mask that maintains the three-dimensional shape of the covering part while suppressing discomfort when worn.

[0086] 1, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1J: Mask 2: Cover part 7: Main body joint part 10: Base material sheet 11: First base material sheet 12: Second base material sheet 13: Third base material sheet 15: Welded part 18: Pleated part 20: Ear loop part 50: Base material joint part MF: Mountain fold VF: Valley fold R10: Welded area R11: Side welded area R20: Non-welded area R21: Central non-welded area X: Vertical direction Y: Horizontal direction Z: Thickness direction Z1: Inside Z2: Outside

Claims

1. A mask comprising: a breathable base sheet having fibers in a vertical direction corresponding to the wearer's up-and-down direction, a horizontal direction corresponding to the wearer's left-and-right direction, and a covering portion that covers the wearer's mouth, wherein the base sheet has pleats folded in a pleated manner starting from folds extending in the horizontal direction, and is laminated in multiple layers in the thickness direction when the pleats are not unfolded, and the covering portion is provided with welded portions in which the fibers are welded within a single layer of the base sheet without spanning the multiple layers, and the welded portions are arranged so as not to overlap in the thickness direction when the mask is not unfolded.

2. The mask according to claim 1, wherein the covering portion is provided with a welded region in which the welded portion is located in any region in the thickness direction when viewed from above in the unfolded state, and a non-welded region in which the welded portion is not located in any region in the thickness direction when viewed from above in the unfolded state, and in the unfolded state, the area of ​​the non-welded region is larger than the area of ​​the welded region.

3. The mask according to claim 2, wherein the covering portion has a lateral side region extending inward in the lateral direction from the lateral outer edge of the covering portion, and the lateral side region is provided with only the non-welded region of the welded region and the non-welded region.

4. The mask according to claim 2, wherein the covering portion has a vertical side region extending inward in the vertical direction from the vertical outer edge of the covering portion, and only the non-welded region of the welded region is provided in the vertical side region.

5. The mask according to claim 2, wherein the non-welded region has a central non-welded region provided at the lateral center of the covering portion, and the welded region has side welded regions provided on both sides of the central non-welded region in the lateral direction.

6. The mask according to claim 5, wherein the lateral length of the side welding region is longer than the vertical length of the side welding region.

7. The mask according to claim 5, wherein the central non-welded region extends in the longitudinal direction across a plurality of folds.

8. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the fold has a mountain fold shape that protrudes outward in the vertical direction, and the welded portion is provided in a region other than the inner region folded inward by the mountain fold.

9. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the welded portion extends in the longitudinal direction across a plurality of folds.

10. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the covering portion has an outer surface located on the outermost side and an inner surface located on the innermost side, and the welded portion is spaced apart from at least one of the outer surface and the inner surface.

11. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the covering portion has a plurality of base material sheets, the covering portion has a base material joining portion extending in the lateral direction, the covering portion has a first laminated region and a second laminated region that are adjacent to each other via the fold and overlap in the un-unfolded state, and the base material joining portion is provided in only one of the first laminated region and the second laminated region so as not to straddle the fold in the un-unfolded state.

12. The mask according to claim 11, wherein the covering portion is provided with a non-welded region in which, in a plan view in the un-deployed state, the welded portion is not provided in any region in the thickness direction, and the base material joining portion is provided in a part of the non-welded region.

13. The mask according to claim 12, wherein the area of ​​the base material joining portion provided within the non-welded region is 20% or less of the area of ​​the non-welded region.

14. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the fold has an upper fold and a lower fold adjacent to each other in the vertical direction when unfolded with the fold as a base point, and the vertical distance between the upper fold and the lower fold in the region where the welded portion is provided between the upper fold and the lower fold is shorter than the vertical distance between the upper fold and the lower fold in the region where the welded portion is not provided between the upper fold and the lower fold.

15. The mask according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the base sheet has wrinkles extending in the lateral direction in a region extending outward in the lateral direction from the lateral outer edge of the welded portion.

16. The mask according to claim 15, wherein the wrinkles extend from the outside in the transverse direction toward the inside in the transverse direction and from the outside in the vertical direction toward the inside in the vertical direction.

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