TWI752261B - Face mask having transparent plastic piece - Google Patents

Abstract

Implementations of the disclosed subject matter provide a face mask that may include a transparent plastic piece having a front side, a back side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side. A first conformable member may be affixed to a first portion of the back side and disposed parallel to the top side. A second conformable member may be affixed to a second portion of the back side and disposed parallel to the bottom side. The face mask may include straps, ear loops, and/or head bands so that it may be secured to a user.

Description

Face shield with clear plastic sheet

The present invention relates to a face mask with a transparent plastic sheet

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION During events such as surgery and other medical treatments, dental treatments, and the like, health professionals typically wear face masks to protect the wearer and surrounding parties from infection. Masks are designed to capture droplets and aerosolized particles from the wearer's mouth and nose and prevent bodily and other fly fluids from reaching the covered parts of the wearer's face. Face shields are typically made of paper or other nonwoven material, and typically have three layers (ie, three pieces). Typically, these layers are composed of meltblown material interposed between nonwovens. Meltblown materials are used as filters to prevent contaminants from entering or leaving the mask. Most face masks include folds or creases to enable the surface area of the mask to expand so that the mask covers the area of the wearer's face from the nose to the chin. Masks for surgical treatment typically have four straps attached to the back of the head. Other variations include masks that attach to the wearer's face via ear loops (wherein the cord material is attached to the mask and placed behind the ears) and masks with elastic headbands placed behind the head.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with implementations of the disclosed subject matter, a mask may include a clear plastic sheet having a front side, a back side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side. The first conforming member may be attached to the first portion of the rear side and be arranged parallel to the top side. The second conforming member may be attached to the second portion of the rear side and be arranged parallel to the bottom side. The at least one first strap may have a first strap portion including a first end and a second strap portion including a second end, wherein a portion of the first strap portion and a portion of the second strap portion are attached parallel to the top side of the plastic sheet. The at least one second strap may have a first strap portion including a first end and a second strap portion including a second end, wherein a portion of the first strap portion and a portion of the second strap portion are attached parallel to the bottom side of the plastic sheet.

According to implementations of the disclosed subject matter, the mask can include a clear plastic sheet having a front side, a back side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side. The conforming member may be attached to the second portion of the rear side and be arranged parallel to the bottom side. The mask may include an elastic strap, wherein a portion of the elastic strap is attached parallel to the top side of the plastic sheet. The first strap portion may have a first end and the second strap portion may have a second end, wherein a portion of the first strap portion and a portion of the second strap portion are attached parallel to the bottom side of the plastic sheet.

According to implementations of the disclosed subject matter, the transparent plastic sheet has a front side, a back side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side. The first conforming member may be attached to the first portion of the rear side and be arranged parallel to the top side. The second conforming member may be attached to the second portion of the rear side and be arranged parallel to the bottom side. The first elastic band may have a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end are attached to different portions of the left side to form the first loop. The second elastic band has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end are attached to different portions of the right side to form a second loop.

Additional features, advantages, and implementations of the disclosed subject matter may be listed and apparent from a consideration of the following detailed description, drawings, and technical solutions. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the foregoing summary and the following detailed description are illustrative and intended to provide further explanation and not to limit the scope of the technical solution.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Miscommunication is a leading cause of medical errors. The potential for miscommunication is particularly heightened among deaf and hard-of-hearing medical patients when standard face coverings such as surgical masks are used. It is estimated that approximately 55% of communication is non-verbal. Standard surgical masks obscure the wearer's face and prevent others from viewing the mask wearer's facial expressions and the ability to read the wearer's lips. Implementations of the disclosed subject matter can provide masks with full face visibility. Masks can provide protection to the wearer and can provide comfort and breathability to the wearer. The masks of the disclosed subject matter can allow patients and other individuals to observe more of the wearer's face and facial expressions, while the masks can provide safety, comfort, and breathability to the wearer.

While many people may benefit from whole face communication, this is especially important for: deaf and hard of hearing patients, medical staff, medical students, laboratory technicians and scientists; people with limited English proficiency Patients; sign language interpreters and personnel; dentists, dental hygienists and other dental health professionals; patients prone to or experiencing stress and anxiety; pediatric patients; immunosuppressed patients; cancer patients; HIV/AIDS patients; organ transplant recipients; Medical personnel who are vaccinated against seasonal flu and must wear face coverings; and all medical personnel that enable medical personnel to observe colleagues' faces and improve Understand conversations well. People in non-medical settings who use face coverings can also benefit from full-face communication.

Implementations of the disclosed subject matter can include masks with transparent viewing areas. In some implementations, the viewing area may be translucent, opaque, or the like. The transparent viewing area can be coated with an anti-fog or anti-fog coating to provide full face visibility. Masks can include features that provide comfort and breathability.

Implementations of the disclosed subject matter may provide a mask with a clear plastic sheet and/or an extended plastic sheet, and a conforming member attached to the backside of the plastic sheet. The plastic sheet may provide improved visibility to the full face of the wearer of the mask, allowing others to observe all of the wearer's facial expressions and/or lip movements. The plastic sheet can act as an impermeable barrier to air and/or other particles and can provide enhanced protection compared to traditional face masks made from cloth-like materials. The conformable features of the mask may provide the wearer of the mask with a better fit, reduced slip, enhanced stability, and/or increased breathability compared to conventional masks. The conforming member may push the clear plastic sheet away from the wearer's face and/or lips to prevent the wearer's face and/or lips from touching the clear plastic sheet and/or by allowing air from the sides of the mask and/or the back of the mask Inflow and/or outflow increase comfort and breathability. That is, the conforming member may seal the top and bottom of the mask and/or together with the plastic sheet create a "pocket" for airflow by preventing airflow to and/or out of the top and/or bottom of the mask.

1A-1M show diagrams of a mask 100 in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter. In particular, FIG. 1B shows a view of the rear side of the mask 100 of FIG. 1A , including a portion of the conforming member attached to the rear side. FIG. 1C shows a side view of the mask 100 and FIG. ID shows a top view of the mask 100 . FIG. 1E shows another view of the rear side of the mask 100 of FIG. 1B , including a first conforming member and a second conforming member attached to portions of the backside. FIG. 1F shows a view of the front side of the mask 100 . Figures 1G-1K show different views and implementations of a mask 100 that includes an extension of the plastic sheet over the conforming member. Figure 1L shows the mask 100 with a single conforming member, and Figure 1M shows an implementation of the mask 100 with straps forming a first loop and a second loop.

The mask 100 of FIGS. 1A-1M may include a clear plastic sheet 102 having a front side 104 , a back side 106 , a top side 108 , a bottom side 110 , a left side 112 and a right side 114 . The transparent plastic sheet 102 of FIGS. 1A-1M is shown in greater detail in FIG. 4 and described below in conjunction with FIG. 4 . In some implementations, the transparent plastic sheet 102 may include an extension 102a as shown in FIGS. 1G-1K as described below. The extension 102a may cover the wearer's eyes and/or upper head area. In some implementations, the viewing area and/or extension 102a of the transparent plastic sheet 102 may be translucent, opaque, or the like. The transparent viewing area and/or extension 102a of the clear plastic sheet 102 may be coated with an anti-fog or anti-fog coating to provide full face visibility, wherein the coating prevents water from condensing on the mask in the form of small droplets like fog s surface. That is, the anti-fog or anti-fog coating can minimize moisture accumulation (eg, moisture accumulation from the breath of the wearer of mask 100 ) on clear plastic sheet 102 and/or backside 106 of extension 102a.

The first conforming member 116 may be attached to the first portion 118 of the rear side 106 of the clear plastic sheet 102 and be arranged parallel to the top side 108 of the clear plastic sheet 102 . The first conforming member may be formed, shaped and/or constructed from foam or any other suitable material. The first conforming member 116 may be shown in more detail in FIGS. 2A-2C and described below.

The second conforming member 120 may be attached to the second portion 122 of the rear side 106 of the clear plastic sheet 102 and be arranged parallel to the bottom side 110 of the clear plastic sheet 102 . The second conforming member 120 may be formed of foam or any other suitable material that may conform to a portion of the face of the wearer of the mask 100 .

At least one first strap 124 may have a first end 126 and a second end 128 . As used throughout, the at least one first strap 124 may be a single strap, or may include two or more straps. When the at least one first strap 124 is a single strap, a portion between the first end 126 and the second end 128 of the at least one first strap 124 may be attached to the plastic sheet 102 parallel to the top side 108 of the clear plastic sheet 102 Front side 104 or rear side 106 . In implementations where the at least one first strap 124 is two or more straps, a portion of one strap opposite the first end 126 may be attached to the plastic sheet 102 and a portion of the other strap opposite the second end 128 may be attached on the plastic sheet 102. Two or more of the at least one first strap 124 may be attached to the front side 104 or the back side 106 of the plastic sheet 102 . A portion of the at least one first strip 124 may be attached parallel to the top side 108 using an adhesive by bonding, by using ultrasonic welding, sewing, or any other suitable method of attaching the at least one first strip 124 to the plastic sheet 102 . At least one second strap 130 may have a first end 132 and a second end 134 . As used throughout, the at least one second strap 130 may be a single strap, or may include two or more straps. When the at least one second strap 130 is a single strap, a portion between the first end 132 and the second end 134 of the second strap 130 is attached to the bottom side 110 of the plastic sheet 102 at the front side 104 or the back side 106 of the plastic sheet. In implementations where the at least one second strap 130 is two or more straps, a portion of one strap opposite the first end 132 may be attached to the plastic sheet 102 and a portion of the other strap opposite the second end 134 may be attached Attached to the plastic sheet 102 . Two or more straps of the at least one second strap 130 may be attached to the front side 104 or the rear side 106 of the plastic sheet 102 . A portion of the at least one second strip 130 may be attached to the bottom side 108 using an adhesive by bonding, by using ultrasonic welding, sewing, or any other suitable method of attaching the at least one second strip 130 to the plastic sheet 102 . A portion of the at least one first strip 124 and the at least one second strip 130 may be attached to the clear plastic sheet 102 such that portions, such as 50%-95%, of the front side 104 and/or the back side 106 of the clear plastic sheet 102 are uncovered. The first strap 124 and the second strap 130 may be formed from fabrics such as woven or knitted fabrics and/or any other suitable material. In some implementations, the fabric may include an elastic material or may be elastic.

In some implementations where the at least one strap 124 and/or the at least one strap 130 is attached to the back side 106 of the plastic sheet 102 , the at least one first strap 124 may be disposed between the clear plastic sheet 102 and the first conforming member 116 and at least A second strap 130 may be disposed between the transparent plastic sheet 102 and the second conforming member 120 . In this implementation, at least one first strap 124 can be attached to the clear plastic sheet 102 and the first conforming member 116 , and at least one second strap 130 can be attached to the clear plastic sheet 102 and the second conforming member 120 .

In some implementations in which the at least one strap 124 and/or the at least one strap 130 are attached to the front side 104 of the plastic sheet 102, the at least one first strap 124 may be attached to the front side 104 of the plastic sheet 102 in a manner parallel to the top side 108, and At least one second strap 130 may be attached to the front side 104 of the plastic sheet 102 in a manner parallel to the bottom side 110 .

The left side 112 and the right side 114 of the clear plastic sheet 102 may be except at the points where they meet the top and bottom sides 108 and 110 of the clear plastic sheet 102 (eg, where the first and second straps 124 and 130 are installed) Not sealed and/or may not have any components mounted to the left side 112 and the right side 114 . Optionally, the left side 112 and the right side 114 of the clear plastic sheet 102 may have cloth-like materials mounted to them in a manner sufficient to protect the wearer from particles or bacteria entering the mask 100 .

The at least one first strap 124 and the at least one second strap 130 may have a width of 0.2 inches to 2 inches. In some implementations, the width may be between 0.3 inches and 1 inch or between 0.3 inches and 0.5 inches. The at least one first strip 124 and the at least one second strip 130 may have a thickness of 0.004 inches to 0.3 inches or any suitable thickness. The ends 126 and 128 of the at least one first strap 124 may each be 12 inches-16 inches (eg, as measured from the left side 112 or the right side 114 of the clear plastic sheet 102). The ends 132 and 134 of the at least one second strap 130 may each be 12 inches-16 inches (eg, as measured from the left side 112 or the right side 114 of the clear plastic sheet 102). That is, the at least one first strap 124 and the at least one second strap 130 may have a length that allows the wearer to tie them to each other approximately behind the wearer's head. For example, ends 126 and 128 of at least one first strap 124 may be tied together, and ends 132 and 134 of at least one second strap 130 may be tied together. In some implementations, such as those described below in connection with FIG. 1M, at least one first strap 124 and at least one second strap 130 may be connected to form first loop 124a and second loop 130a, or first loop 124a and second loop 130a may be formed of an elastic material. The first loop 124a and the second loop 130a can be of sufficient length (eg, 6 inches to 12 inches) such that the first loop 124a and the second loop 130a can be worn over the wearer in a manner that allows the mask 100 to adhere to the wearer's face. fit behind the ear.

2A-2C show more detailed views of the first conforming member 116 shown, for example, in FIGS. 1A , 1B, 1D, and 1E. FIG. 2A shows that the first conforming member 116 may have a width 201 which may be 0.33 inches or any other suitable distance between 0.2 inches and 0.8 inches. FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate that the first conforming member 116 may include at least one surface having recesses 202 , 204 . The first conforming member 116 may include a surface having a first protrusion 206 and a second protrusion 208 . Recesses 210 may be disposed between surfaces 212 and 214 in a manner that is disposed between first protrusions 206 and second protrusions 208 . The first conforming member 116 may have a surface 215 that may be continuously curved. In some implementations, the surface 215 of the first conforming member 116 may be straight. In some implementations, the surface 215 can be attached to the back side 106 of the clear plastic sheet 102 .

FIG. 2C shows a top-down view of the first conforming member 116 . A distance 220 may exist between opposite ends of the first conforming member 116 (eg, at the ends of the recesses 202 and 204). This distance may be 6.25 inches, or may be any other suitable distance such as between 4 inches and 8 inches. Distance 222 may be the distance between the end of recess 202 and recess 210 . In some implementations, distance 222 may be 3.13 inches, or may be any other suitable distance between 2 inches and 5 inches. A similar distance may exist between the end of recess 204 and recess 210 . The distance 224 between the recess 210 and the second protrusion 208 may be 0.5 inches, or may be any other suitable distance such as between 0.25 inches and 1 inch. A similar distance may exist between the recess 210 and the first protrusion 206 . The differential distance 226 between the inner and outer points of the recess 202 may be 0.14 inches, or may be any other suitable distance such as 0.1 inches-0.8 inches. Angle 228 between surfaces 212 and 214 may be, for example, 125.7 degrees, or may be any other suitable angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees. The radius 230 of the recess 204 may be 5.24 inches, or may be any other suitable radius, such as 4 inches-8 inches. The radius of recess 202 may be similar or the same as radius 228 . The radius 232 of the surface 215 of the first conforming member 116 may be 6.17 inches, or may be any other suitable radius such as 5 inches-10 inches. Radius 234 may be the radius for a surface disposed between surfaces 212 and 214, where the radius may be 0.1 inches, or may be any other suitable radius such as 0.05 inches-0.5 inches.

Figures 3A-3C show detailed views of the second conforming member 120 such as shown in Figures 1A-1M. The second conforming member 120 may have a continuously curved surface 121 . The second conforming member 120 may have a surface 122, wherein at least a portion of the surface 122 is concave. The second conforming member 120 may have a surface 123, wherein at least a portion of the surface 123 is convex. In some implementations, surface 123 may be continuously curved. In some implementations, the surface 123 of the second conforming member 120 may be straight.

As shown in Figure 3B, the second conforming member 120 may have a length 300, which may be 6 inches, or may be any other suitable length, such as 4 inches-8 inches. The second conforming member 120 may have a height 302, which may be 0.6 inches, or may be any other suitable length, such as 0.4 inches to 1.0 inches.

As shown in Figure 3C, the surface 121 of the conforming member 120 may have a radius of curvature 304 of 12.19 inches, or may have any other suitable radius, such as 8 inches-15 inches. The surface 123 of the conforming member 120 may have a radius of curvature 306 of 3.75 inches, or may have any other suitable radius, such as 2 inches-5 inches.

The first conforming member 116 and the second conforming member 120 may be attached to the back side 106 of the clear plastic sheet 102 using an adhesive, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1B , 1D and 1E. In some implementations, the first conforming member 116 and the second conforming member 120 may be bonded, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, or otherwise used to form and/or attach the first conforming member 116 and the second conforming member 120 to the clear plastic sheet 102 Any other suitable method of processing the rear side 106 .

The clear plastic sheet 102 may be planar prior to attaching, forming, sewing, ultrasonically welding, and/or forming at least one of the first conforming member 116 and the second conforming member 120 . That is, prior to attaching at least one of the first conforming member 116 and the second conforming member 120, the clear plastic sheet 102 may rest flat and may not have wrinkles. When the first conforming member 116 and the second conforming member 120 are attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the clear plastic sheet 102, the first conforming member 116 and the second conforming member 120 cooperate to form the clear plastic sheet 102 the curvature. In some implementations, the vertical centerline of the transparent plastic sheet 102 may maintain a radius of curvature greater than 1 inch. In some implementations, the clear plastic sheet 102 may be greater than 2 inches, and in some implementations, the radius of curvature of the clear plastic sheet 102 may be greater than 3 inches. The horizontal centerline of the clear plastic sheet 102 may have a radius of curvature greater than 0.5 inches. In some implementations, the horizontal centerline of the clear plastic sheet 102 can have a radius greater than 1 inch, and in some implementations, can have a radius greater than 2 inches. The clear plastic sheet 102 may extend from the wearer's face, but may not protrude outward more than 3 inches to 5 inches. In some implementations, the clear plastic sheet 102 may extend between 2 inches and 4 inches from the wearer's face, and in some implementations, the clear plastic sheet 102 may extend between 0.1 inches and 2 inches from the wearer's face.

As shown in Figure 4, the top 108 of the clear plastic sheet 102 may have a length 400, which may be 6.5 inches, or may be any other suitable length, such as between 4 inches and 15 inches. In some implementations, the length 400 of the clear plastic sheet 102 is between 5 inches and 13 inches, and in some implementations, the length 400 of the clear plastic sheet 102 is between 6 inches and 12 inches. The sides 114 of the clear plastic sheet 102 may have a length 402, which may be 2.75 inches, or any other suitable length, such as between 2 inches and 7 inches. In some implementations, the length 402 can be between 2 inches and 6 inches, and in some implementations, the length 402 can be between 3 inches and 5 inches. Side 112 of clear plastic sheet 102 may have a similar or the same length as length 402 . The length 404 between the top 108 and the bottom 406 of the clear plastic sheet 102 may be 3.75 inches, or may be any other suitable length, such as between 2.5 inches and 5.5 inches. In an implementation such as that shown in FIG. 1I, when the mask 100 includes the extension 102a for the plastic sheet 102, the length 404 may be increased, as described below. The radius 406 of the bottom 110 of the clear plastic sheet 102 may be 7.8 inches, or may be any other suitable length, such as between 6 inches and 10 inches.

The thickness of the clear plastic sheet 102 and/or the extension 102a may be between 1 mil and 10 mils. In some implementations, the thickness of the transparent plastic sheet 102 and/or the extension 102a may be between 1 mil and 8 mils. In some implementations, the thickness of the transparent plastic sheet 102 and/or the extension 102a may be between 3 mils and 7 mils.

1G shows a front view of the mask 100 with the extension 102a of the plastic sheet 102, and FIG. 1H shows a side view of the mask 100 with the extension 102a of the plastic sheet 102. FIG. The extension 102a may be the portion of the plastic sheet 102 over which the first conforming member 116 and/or the at least one first strap 124 may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the plastic sheet 102 extend. The top 108 may be the top of the extension 102a of the plastic sheet 102 .

FIG. 1I shows an extension 102a of the plastic sheet 102 with portions 102b and/or 102c of the extension 102a angled outwardly from the left and right sides of the plastic sheet 102 in accordance with implementations of the disclosed subject matter. The extension 102a may have a height 150, which is the distance from the top to the top 108 of the first conforming member 116, and the height 150 may range from 1 inch to 8 inches. Portion 102b may have a width 151 and portion 102c may have a width 152, wherein widths 151, 152 may each range from 0-6 inches.

1J-1K illustrate an example of a mask 100 that includes an extension 102a of a plastic sheet 102, which may include a headgear 160 in accordance with implementations of the disclosed subject matter. As shown in FIG. 1J , a portion of the headband 106 may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the top 108 of the extension 102a of the plastic sheet 102 . The headband 160 may be made of an elastic material and may be used to secure the mask 100 to the wearer's head. The length of the headband may be 4 inches to 16 inches, or may be any suitable length that fits around the wearer's head. The mask 100 shown in FIG. 1J can include at least one first strap 124 and at least one second strap 130 that can be used with the head strap 160 to secure the mask 100 to the The wearer's head. As shown in FIG. 1K, the mask 100 may include a headband 160 and at least one second strap 130, which may be used to secure the mask 100 to the wearer's head. As shown in FIGS. 1J-1K , the conforming member 117 may be attached to the rear side 106 in parallel with the top 108 of the extension 102a of the plastic sheet 102 . The conforming member 117 may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the extension 102a of the plastic sheet 102 . The conforming member 117 may be foam or any suitable material, and may have a curved, straight, concave, and/or any suitable shaped surface that may conform to the wearer's head. The adaptation member 117 may be similar to the first adaptation member 116 described throughout.

FIG. 1L shows a mask 100 with a single conforming member 120 in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter. Mask 100 may include plastic sheet 102 and extensions 102a, and may be fitted and/or secured to a wearer's head using at least one first strap 124, at least one second strap 130, and/or second conforming member 120.

FIG. 1M shows a mask 100 similar to the implementation shown in FIGS. 1A-1F , but the mask 100 of FIG. One end 126 to form the first loop 124a, and the mask 100 in FIG. 1M has the second end 128 of the at least one first strap 124 connected to the second end 134 of the at least one second strap 130 to form the second loop 130a. The at least one first strap 124 and the at least one second strap 130 may be formed of a resilient material. In some implementations, the first loop 124a can be an elastic band that can be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the side 112, and the second loop 130 can be an elastic band that can be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and /or an elastic band formed to the side portion 114 . The first loop 124a and the second loop 130 can fit around the wearer's ears to secure the mask 100 to the wearer.

Figures 5A and 6A show components of mask 100a, and Figures 5B and 6B show components of mask 100b, which may be an alternative implementation of mask 100 having the components shown in Figures 1A-4. Masks 100a and 100b may include a first conforming member 116 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C and described above and a second conforming member 120 shown in FIGS. 3A-3C and described above.

FIG. 5A shows a mask 100a having angled side edges 112a and 114a in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter. The mask 100a may include a clear plastic sheet 102b having a top side 108, a bottom side 110, a left side 112a, and a right side 114a. The clear plastic sheet 102b may have a front side and a back side, which may be similar to the front side 104 and the back side 106 of the clear plastic sheet 102 shown in FIG. 1A and previously described. The top side 108 of the mask 100a may have a plurality of edges 108a, 108b. The bottom side 110 of the mask 100a may have curved edges.

The first conforming member, which may be similar to the first conforming member 116 previously described and shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the backside of the transparent plastic sheet 102b. The first portion is also arranged parallel to the top side 108 of the transparent plastic sheet 102b. The first conforming member may be formed of foam or any other suitable material.

The transparent plastic sheet 102b is shown in greater detail in Figure 6A. In some implementations, the viewing area may be translucent, opaque, or the like. The transparent viewing area can be coated with an anti-fog or anti-fog coating to provide full face visibility, where the coating prevents water from condensing in the form of small droplets on the surface of the mask like a fog. That is, the anti-fog or anti-fog coating may minimize moisture accumulation on the backside of the transparent plastic sheet 102b (eg, moisture accumulation from the breath of the wearer of the mask 100a).

The second conforming member may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to a second portion of the rear side of the clear plastic sheet 102b and disposed parallel to the bottom side 110 of the clear plastic sheet 102b. The second conforming member may be similar to the second conforming member 120 shown in FIGS. 3A-3C and described previously, and may be formed of foam or any other suitable material that may conform to a portion of the face of the wearer of the mask 100a .

Similar to the mask 100 shown in FIG. 1A , the mask 100a shown in FIG. 5A may include at least one first strap 124 having a first end 126 and a second end 128 . Between the first end 126 and the second end 128, a portion of the at least one first strip 124 may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the top side 108 of the clear plastic sheet 102b. A portion of the at least one first strip 124 may be attached to the top side 108 using an adhesive, or may be shaped, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the top side 108 . In implementations where the at least one first strap 124 is two or more straps, a portion of one strap opposite the first end 126 may be attached to the plastic sheet 102b and a portion of the other strap opposite the second end 128 may be attached on the plastic sheet 102b. At least one second strap 130 may have a first end 132 and a second end 134 . Between the first end 132 and the second end 134, a portion of the at least one second strip 130 may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to the bottom side 110 of the plastic sheet 102b. Portions of the second tape 130 may be attached to the underside 110 using an adhesive, or may be shaped, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed into the underside 110 . In implementations where the at least one second strap 130 is two or more straps, a portion of one strap opposite the first end 132 may be attached to the plastic sheet 102b and a portion of the other strap opposite the second end 134 may be attached Attached to the plastic sheet 102b.

FIG. 5B shows a mask 100b with straight side edges in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter. The mask 100b may include a clear plastic sheet 102c having a top side 108, a bottom side 110, a left side 112b and a right side 114b. The clear plastic sheet 102c may have a front side and a back side, which may be similar to the front side 104 and the back side 106 of the clear plastic sheet 102 shown in FIG. 1A and previously described. The top side 108 of the mask 100b may have a plurality of edges 108a, 108b. The bottom side 110 of the mask 100b may have curved edges.

The first conforming member may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to a first portion of the rear side of the clear plastic sheet 102c and disposed parallel to the top side 108 of the clear plastic sheet 102c. The first conforming member may be formed of foam or any other suitable material. The first conforming member may be similar to the first conforming member 116 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C and described previously.

The transparent plastic sheet 102c is shown in detail in Figure 6B. In some implementations, the viewing area may be translucent, opaque, or the like. The transparent viewing area can be coated with an anti-fog or anti-fog coating to provide full face visibility, where the coating prevents water from condensing in the form of small droplets on the surface of the mask like a fog. That is, the anti-fog or anti-fog coating can minimize moisture accumulation on the backside of the transparent plastic sheet 102c (eg, moisture accumulation from the breath of the wearer of the mask 100b).

The second conforming member may be attached, formed, sewn, ultrasonically welded, and/or formed to a second portion of the rear side of the clear plastic sheet 102c and disposed parallel to the bottom side 110 of the clear plastic sheet 102c. The second conforming member may be similar to the second conforming member 120 described above and shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, and may be formed of foam or any other suitable material that may conform to a portion of the face of the wearer of the mask 100a .

Similar to the mask 100 shown in FIG. 1A , the mask 100b shown in FIG. 5B can include at least one first strap 124 having a first end 126 and a second end 128 . Between the first end 126 and the second end 128, a portion of at least one first strip 124 may be attached to the top side 108 of the clear plastic sheet 102c. In implementations where the at least one first strap 124 is two or more straps, a portion of one strap opposite the first end 126 may be attached to the transparent sheet 102c and a portion of the other strap opposite the second end 128 may be attached on the plastic sheet 102c. A portion of the at least one first strap 124 may be attached to the top side 108 using an adhesive. At least one second strap 130 may have a first end 132 and a second end 134 . Between the first end 132 and the second end 134, a portion of at least one second strip 130 may be attached to the bottom side 110 of the plastic sheet 102b. A portion of the second strap 130 may be attached to the bottom side 108 using an adhesive. In implementations where the at least one second strap 130 is two or more straps, a portion of one strap opposite the first end 132 may be attached to the plastic sheet 102c, and a portion of the other strap opposite the second end 134 may be attached Attached to the plastic sheet.

Figure 6A shows a transparent plastic sheet 102b used in association with the implementation of the mask 100a shown in Figure 5A. As shown in Figure 6A, the transparent plastic sheet 102b may have a top side 108 having edges 108a1 and 108b1. The angle between edges 108a1 and 108b1 may be between 100 degrees and 180 degrees. In some implementations, the angle between edges 108a1 and 108b1 may be between 120 degrees and 180 degrees, and in some implementations, the angle between edges 108a1 and 108b1 may be between 160 degrees and 180 degrees, with their apex at At the highest point of the vertical midline of the transparent plastic sheet 102b.

The transparent plastic sheet 102b may have a left side 112a having a first plurality of edges 112a1 , 112a2 , 112a3 and a right side 114a including a second plurality of edges 114a1 , 114a2 , 114a3 . In some implementations, the first plurality of edges 112a1 , 112a2 , 112a3 may be symmetrical with the second plurality of edges 114a1 , 114a2 , 114a3 . The first plurality of edges 112a1, 112a2, 112a3 may include a first plurality of angled edges (eg, edges 112a1, 112a2, 112a3 are angled relative to each other), and the second plurality of edges 114a1, 114a2, 114a3 include a second plurality of edges. angled edges (eg, edges 114a1 , 114a2 , 114a3 are angled relative to each other).

The bottom side 110a of the clear plastic sheet 102b may have a radius of curvature greater than 0.5 inches. In some implementations, the radius of curvature of the bottom side 110a may be greater than 2 inches, and in some implementations, may be greater than 3 inches.

Figure 6B shows a transparent plastic sheet 102c used in association with the implementation of the mask 100b shown in Figure 5B. The clear plastic sheet 102c may include a left side 112b and a right side 114b.

As shown in Figure 6B, the transparent plastic sheet 102c may have a top side 108 with edges 108a1 and 108b1. The angle between edges 108a1 and 108b1 may be between 100 degrees and 180 degrees. In some implementations, the angle between edges 108a1 and 108b1 may be between 120 degrees and 180 degrees, and in some implementations, the angle between edges 108a1 and 108b1 may be between 160 degrees and 180 degrees, with their apex At the highest point of the vertical midline of the transparent plastic sheet 102c.

Similar to Figure 6A, the bottom side 110a of the transparent plastic sheet 102c shown in Figure 6B may have a radius of curvature greater than 0.5 inches. In some implementations, the radius of curvature of the bottom side 110a may be greater than 2 inches, and in some implementations, may be greater than 3 inches.

The foregoing description for purposes of explanation has been described with reference to specific implementations. However, the illustrative descriptions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit implementations of the disclosed subject matter to the specific forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The implementations of the disclosed subject matter were chosen and described in order to explain their principles and their practical applications, so that those skilled in the art can utilize these implementations and various implementations with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

100, 100a, 100b‧‧‧Mask 102‧‧‧Transparent plastic sheet 102a‧‧‧Extension 102c‧‧‧Transparent plastic sheet; Extension 102b‧‧‧Transparent plastic sheet; Part 104‧‧‧Front side 106‧‧‧ Rear side 108‧‧‧Top side 108a, 108b, 108a1, 108b1‧‧‧Edge 110, 110a‧‧‧Bottom side 110, 406‧‧‧Bottom 112, 112b‧‧‧left side 112a‧‧left side; side edge 112a1 , 112a2, 112a3‧‧‧first plurality of edges 114, 114b‧‧‧right side 114a‧‧‧right side; side edges 114a1, 114a2, 114a3‧‧‧second plurality of edges 116‧‧‧first adapting member 117‧ ‧‧Adapting member 118‧‧‧First part 120‧‧‧Second adapting member 121, 123, 212, 214, 215‧‧‧Surface 122‧‧‧Second part; Surface 124, 126, 132‧‧‧First Belt 124a‧‧‧First ring 128, 130, 134‧‧‧Second end 130a‧‧‧Second ring 150, 302‧‧‧Height 151, 152, 201‧‧‧Width 160‧‧‧Headband 202, 204‧‧‧Recess 206‧‧‧First protrusion 208‧‧‧Second protrusion 210‧‧‧Depression 220, 222, 224, 226‧‧‧Distance 228‧‧‧Angle; Radius 230, 232, 234, 306, 406‧‧‧Radius 300, 400, 402, 404‧‧‧Length 304, 306‧‧‧Radius of curvature

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosed subject matter, are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings also illustrate implementations of the disclosed subject matter, and together with the detailed description serve to explain the principles of implementations of the disclosed subject matter. No attempt has been made to show structural details in greater detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the disclosed subject matter and the various ways in which it may be practiced.

1A shows a diagram of a face mask in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 1B shows a view of the backside of the mask of FIG. 1A in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter, including conforming members attached to portions of the backside.

1C shows a side view of the mask of FIG. 1A in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

1D shows a top view of the mask of FIG. 1A in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

1E shows another view of the backside of the mask of FIG. 1B in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter, including first and second conforming members attached to portions of the backside.

1F shows a view of the front side of the mask of FIG. 1A in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

1G-1H show views of extensions of plastic sheets of a face mask in accordance with implementations of the disclosed subject matter.

1I illustrates an extension of a plastic sheet in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter, wherein portions of the extension extend angularly outward from the left and right sides of the plastic sheet.

Figures 1J-1K illustrate a mask having an extension of a plastic sheet, wherein the mask includes a headgear in accordance with implementations of the disclosed subject matter.

1L shows a mask with a single conforming member in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

1M shows a mask with straps forming a first loop and a second loop in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

2A shows a diagram of a portion of a first conforming member facing a wearer's face in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

2B shows another diagram of a first conforming member in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

2C shows a top view of a first conforming member in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

3A shows a diagram of a second conforming member in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

3B shows a view of a portion of a second conforming member that is not attached to the rear side of the mask of FIG. 1A in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

3C shows a top view of a second conforming member in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

4 shows a diagram of a plastic sheet of the mask of FIG. 1A in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

5A shows a mask with angled side and upper edges in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

5B shows a mask with straight side edges and angled upper edges in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

6A shows a plastic sheet of the mask of FIG. 5A in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

6B shows the plastic sheet of the mask of FIG. 5B in accordance with an implementation of the disclosed subject matter.

100‧‧‧mask

102‧‧‧Transparent plastic sheet

104‧‧‧Front

106‧‧‧Rear

108‧‧‧Top side

110‧‧‧Bottom Side; Bottom

112‧‧‧Left

114‧‧‧Right

116‧‧‧First adaptation component

118‧‧‧Part 1

120‧‧‧Second adaptation component

122‧‧‧Part II; Surface

124, 126, 132‧‧‧First belt

128, 130, 134‧‧‧Second end

Claims (18)

A mask comprising: a clear plastic sheet having a front side, a back side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side and a right side; a first conforming member attached to a first portion of the back side and arranged to be in contact with the top side side parallel; a second conforming member attached to the second portion of the rear side and disposed parallel to the bottom side; at least one first strap having a first strap portion including a first end and a first strap portion including a first a second strap portion with two ends, wherein a portion of the first strap portion and a portion of the second strap portion are attached parallel to the top side of the plastic sheet; and at least one second strap having a first end including A first strap portion and a second strap portion including a second end, wherein a portion of the first strap portion and a portion of the second strap portion are attached to the bottom side of the plastic sheet. The mask of claim 1, wherein the left side includes a first plurality of edges and the right side includes a second plurality of edges. The mask of claim 2, wherein the first plurality of edges is symmetrical with the second plurality of edges. The mask of claim 2, wherein the first plurality of edges includes a first plurality of angled edges and the second plurality of edges includes a second plurality of angled edges. The mask of claim 1, wherein the top side includes a plurality of edges. The face mask of claim 1, wherein the base The sides include curved edges. The mask of claim 1, wherein the first conforming member has a first surface, wherein at least a portion of the first surface has at least one recess, or the first surface has a first protrusion and a second protrusion . The mask of claim 1, wherein the second conforming member has a first surface that is continuously curved, or the first surface has a convex portion, or a portion of the first surface is concave of. The mask of claim 1, wherein the first and second conforming members are attached to the rear side using an adhesive, or the first and second conforming members is molded or formed to the rear side. The mask of claim 1, wherein the at least one first strap and the at least one second strap are formed of an elastic material. The mask of claim 10, wherein the first end of the at least one first strap is attached to the first end of the at least one second strap to form a first loop, and the at least one first strap has a The second end is attached to the second end of the at least one second strap to form a second loop. The mask of claim 1, wherein the first conforming member is attached to the first portion of the rear side and is arranged parallel to the top side of the plastic sheet such that the top side of the plastic sheet is A portion extends from the location where the first conforming member is attached. The face mask of claim 12, wherein the The mask also includes an elastic strap, wherein a portion of the elastic strap is attached parallel to the top side of the plastic sheet. The mask of claim 12, wherein the portion of the top side of the plastic sheet extending from the location where the first conforming member is attached has multiple edges or bends on the left and right sides of the plastic sheet part of the segment. A mask comprising: a transparent plastic sheet having a front side, a back side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side and a right side; a first conforming member attached to a portion of the front side and arranged parallel to the top side an elastic band, wherein a portion of the elastic band is attached parallel to the top side of the plastic sheet; a second conforming member attached to a portion of the rear side and arranged to be parallel to the bottom side; and a first A belt portion having a first end and a second belt portion having a second end, wherein a portion of the first belt portion and a portion of the second belt portion Attached to the bottom side of the plastic sheet. The mask of claim 15, wherein a single strap includes the first strap portion and the second strap portion. The mask of claim 15, wherein a first strap includes the first strap portion and a second strap includes the second strap portion. A face mask comprising: a transparent plastic sheet having a front side, a back side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side and the right side; a first adapting member attached to the first portion of the rear side and arranged to be parallel to the top side; a second adapting member attached to the second portion of the rear side and arranged to be parallel to the top side the bottom sides are parallel; a first elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end are attached to different parts of the left side to form a first loop, the different The portion includes where the left side meets the top side and where the left side meets the bottom side; and a second elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end are attached to different portions of the right side to form a second loop, the different portions including where the right side meets the top side and where the right side meets the bottom side .

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