GB2586098A

GB2586098A - Breathing mask

Info

Publication number: GB2586098A
Application number: GB2011542.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Edwards Mike
Original assignee: Aireyys Ltd
Current assignee: Aireyys Ltd
Priority date: 2020-07-24
Filing date: 2020-07-24
Publication date: 2021-02-03
Also published as: GB202011542D0

Abstract

A breathing mask that comprises a first layer 1 of gas-permeable fabric, and a second layer (2; figure 2) of gas-permeable fabric arranged behind the first layer. At least one permanently open pocket 6 is provided, for example by an aperture 7 in the first layer 1. Alternatively, the pocket entrance may be provided by a break in the join. The entrance should be at least 37 mm from the lower join, providing a pocket of that depth. The breathing mask could have two adjacent pockets separated by a vertical seam 4 and the colour of the mask at the entrance could be a contrasting or alternative colour, ideally with a reflective luminance of at least twice the other colour.

Description

BREATHING MASK

Background to the Invention

[0001] This invention relates to a mask of the kind utilised to prevent infection to and/or from the wearer of the mask.

[0002] Known masks comprise one or more layers of gas-permeable fabric that cover the wearer's nose and mouth. Straps, which can be elasticated, are used to secure the mask, either hooking over the ears or extending around the head.

[0003] A video entitled "How to Make Face Mask at Home Using Cloth Wallet" is currently available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvLlEcDGgTI. It shows a zip-up wallet being turned inside out, cut into a mask shape around a template, and re-sewn with elastic straps to form a mask. There is no suggestion that the mask functions as a wallet.

[0004] When an epidemic is ongoing, the wearing of masks in certain locations may be required by law.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] The invention seeks to provide a breathing mask having improved functionality.

[0006] The invention provides a breathing mask comprising a first layer of gas-permeable fabric, and a second layer of gas-permeable fabric arranged behind the first layer; the first and second layers being joined together along at least part of a mutual periphery; at least one pocket for the storage of an article being provided between said layers, which pocket is permanently open.

[0007] In one embodiment, the at least one pocket has an entrance provided as an aperture, for example a slit, in the first layer of fabric. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one pocket has an entrance provided by a break in the peripheral join. No zip or other closure is provided.

[0008] If it is desired to allow storage of credit cards or similar card, the aperture or slit can be located at a distance from a lower part of the peripheral join to make the depth of the pocket of at least 37 mm, for example at least 45 mm.

[0009] In one example, there are two pockets located side-by-side. The pockets can be divided by a vertical seam in the centre of the mask.

[0010] When the mask is being worn and an object is being inserted, the entrance to the at least one pocket may be at the edge of a user's field of view. To facilitate insertion of the object, the entrance to the pocket may have a colour that contrasts with a colour of an upper part of the mask adjacent to that entrance. One of said colours may have a reflective luminance of at least twice the other.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] The invention will now be described in more detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0012] Figure 1 is a front view of a mask according to an embodiment of the invention; [0013] Figure 2 is a rear view of the mask shown in Figure 1; and [0014] Figures 3 and 4 are views of the mask showing how the pockets open. Detailed Description of Particular Embodiments [0015] The drawings show a mask comprising a front layer of fabric 1 and a rear layer of fabric 2. These can be of any material that is breathable but catches water vapour. Examples include synthetic materials, such as nonwoven polypropylene, and natural materials including cotton, wool and leather.

[0016] The front and rear layers 1, 2 are joined together, in this example by a sewn seam 3 that extends around the entire periphery of each of the layers. In this example each of the layers 1, 2 is formed from two pieces of fabric arranged side by side and with a central vertical seam 4.

[0017] Alternatively each of the layers could be one piece of fabric; the mask may comprise two pieces of fabric each forming one half of each layer; or the entire mask can be formed from a single piece of fabric folded, and attached to itself peripherally. The front layer 1 can be pleated.

[0018] The mask is provided with conventional elastic loops 5 at its ends, for hooking to the wearer's ears. Other known methods of securing the mask to the wearer's head may be used. These include a strap intended to extend around the back of the head, which can be elasticated and/or formed as an integral part of at least one of the layers 1, 2 and/or provided with at least one releasable fastener.

[0019] The mask is provided with two pockets 6. Each of the pockets has an entrance 7, in the form of a slit in the front layer 1. The pockets have a size suitable for the storage of credit cards, banknotes etc. The depth of the pockets is such that a narrow edge of a credit card will be exposed for grasping the card when the card is fully inserted into the pocket.

[0020] There may instead be a single pocket, and the number of pockets and their shape can be varied as appropriate.

[0021] It will be appreciated that the invention addresses the problem of masked shopping in a manner that combines elegance with convenience, whilst fully shielding the mouth and nose.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A breathing mask comprising a first layer of gas-permeable fabric, and a second layer of gas-permeable fabric arranged behind the first layer; the first and second layers being joined together along at least part of a mutual periphery; at least one pocket for the storage of an article being provided between said layers, which pocket is permanently open.
2. A breathing mask according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pocket has an entrance provided as an aperture in the first layer of fabric.
3. A breathing mask according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one pocket has an entrance provided by a break in the peripheral join.
4. A breathing mask according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the entrance, or at least one of the entrances, is located at a distance of at least 37 mm, for example at least 45 mm, from a lower part of the peripheral join, to provide the pocket in question with a depth corresponding to said distance.
5. A breathing mask according to any preceding claim, including two pockets located side-by-side.
6. A breathing mask according to claim 5, wherein the pockets are divided by a vertical seam in the centre of the mask.
7. A breathing mask according to any preceding claim, wherein to facilitate insertion of the object, the entrance, or at least one of the entrances, has a colour that contrasts with a colour of an upper part of the mask adjacent to that entrance.
8. A breathing mask according to claim 7, wherein one of said colours has a reflective luminance of at least twice the other.