WO2022106068A1

WO2022106068A1 - Mouth-nose mask

Info

Publication number: WO2022106068A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/057826
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Schwager
Original assignee: Stg Medical Ag
Priority date: 2020-11-19
Filing date: 2021-03-25
Publication date: 2022-05-27
Also published as: WO2022106011A1

Abstract

A mouth-nose mask (10), in particular for reducing the transmission of pathogens via droplets of secretion, comprises a central fold (11) which defines a chin-nose line of the mouth-nose mask and separates the mouth-nose mask (10) into two substantially congruent halves; a means (15.1, 15.2) for fastening the mouth-nose mask to a wearer's ears or back of the head is attached to the ends of the two halves remote from the central fold (11); the mouth-nose mask (10) comprises at least two superposed layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) of a filter material, said at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) defining the outer shape of the mouth-nose mask (10) and being only partially joined to one another at their edges (11, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d).

Description

Mouth and nose protection

technical field

The invention relates to a mouth and nose protector, in particular for reducing the transmission of pathogens through secretion droplets, and to a method for producing a mouth and nose protector. The invention also relates to the use of a mouth and nose protector to reduce the transmission of pathogens through secretion droplets.

State of the art

Mouth and nose protection refers to air-permeable face half masks that cover both the mouth and nose area when used as intended. Mouth and nose protection is also sometimes referred to as mouth and nose mask, surgical mask, medical face mask, hospital mask, surgical face mask or hygiene mask.

Mouth and nose protection serves to reduce the transmission of pathogens such as viruses or bacteria through secretion droplets, which is particularly important in connection with the so-called coronavirus pandemic, but also in the case of other known viral diseases that can be transmitted through secretion droplets in order to prevent the spread of the virus to stop the virus. For this purpose, the mouth and nose protection typically has a filter medium embedded between two fleece layers, which absorbs the secretion droplets, which are secreted from the mouth and nose when speaking, coughing or sneezing, for example.

In order for the mouth and nose protector to be optimally effective, it must seal the mouth and nose area as tightly as possible so that most of the breathing air flows through the filter material when it enters and exits. The mouth and nose protection is used for this usually pulled and fixed with ribbons or elastic bands at the back of the head or behind the ears of the wearer on the mouth and nose area. In order to improve the seal in the area of the nose and to keep the wearer's field of vision free, many mouth and nose protectors have integrated metal brackets at the top edge, which allow the mouth and nose protector to be better adapted to the shape of the wearer's face in this area . The better the mouth and nose protector fits the wearer's face, the lower the proportion of air that flows past the mouth and nose protector when breathing.

A disadvantage of known mouth and nose protectors, however, is that they often adapt poorly to the shape of the face, form bulges and slip when worn, resulting in leaks between the face and mouth and nose protector. In addition, known mouth and nose protectors usually have a moderate wearing comfort. There are also so-called fabric masks, which are usually more comfortable to wear. However, their production is relatively complex and the protective effect is usually lower than that of conventional disposable hygiene masks.

There is therefore still a need for an improved mouth and nose protector which does not have the aforementioned disadvantages or has them to a lesser extent.

Presentation of the invention

The object of the invention is therefore to provide an improved mouth and nose protector. In particular, the mouth and nose protector should be designed in such a way that it adapts to the shape of the face as best as possible, is comfortable to wear and offers the best possible protective effect. In addition, it is desirable for the mouth and nose protector to be as easy to produce as possible and to have as long a useful life as possible.

The solution to these problems is defined by the features of independent claim 1 and the other independent claims.

A first aspect of the present invention thus relates to a mouth and nose protector, in particular for reducing the transmission of pathogens through secretion droplets, the mouth and nose protector having a central fold which defines a chin-nose line of the mouth-nose protection and divides the mouth-nose protection into two essentially congruent halves and at the ends of the two halves facing away from the central fold a means for attaching the mouth-nose protection the ears and/or on the back of the head of a wearer, the mouth and nose protector having at least two layers of a filter material arranged one on top of the other, which define the outer shape of the mouth and nose protector, the at least two layers at their edges only are partially connected.

Through the combination of a central fold and the at least two layers of filter material arranged one on top of the other, which are only partially connected at the edges and define the outer shape of the mouth and nose protector, mouth and nose protectors can be produced in a simple manner. which on the one hand sit in a defined position on the face, at the same time adapt as best as possible to the shape of the face and on the other hand are very comfortable to wear. In addition, a very high filter effect or low permeability for pathogens such as bacteria or viruses can be achieved with relatively low breathing resistance.

Without being bound by theory, it is assumed that the only partial connection at the edges enables the at least two layers of filter material to move more easily against one another when deformed. This allows the layers to adapt better to the shape of the face, which on the one hand results in a better seal between the mouth and nose protector and the face and on the other hand is perceived as more comfortable for the wearer. Overall, the mouth and nose protector feels softer and more flexible than a comparable mouth and nose protector in which the at least two layers are essentially continuously connected at the edges.

It has also been shown that the mouth and nose protectors according to the invention can be reused several times and can also be washed. Further advantages of the mouth and nose protector according to the invention result from the following statements.

The statements "top", "bottom", "front" and "back" refer to the mouth and nose protection when it is worn on the face as intended. "In front" means the area of the mouth and nose protector which lies in front of the nose and/or mouth of the wearer, while "rear" means the area of the mouth and nose protector which faces the back of the wearer's head. Correspondingly, "below" means the areas of the mask facing the neck and "above" means the areas of the mask facing the upper half of the head.

The "edge" is the outer limit of the mouth and nose protector. This includes in particular the central fold.

In particular, a "fold" is a structural break line.

The at least two layers of filter material arranged one on top of the other define the outer shape of the mouth and nose protector. The at least two layers of the filter material arranged one above the other are preferably substantially congruent and they are more preferably congruently one on top of the other.

The layers of the filter material are therefore not simply inserted as a simple filter part into an outer shell, which forms the outer shape, as is the case with certain known mouth and nose protectors. The configuration according to the invention achieves a uniform filter effect over the entire mouth and nose protector and better adaptation to the shape of the face.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the mouth and nose protector has no further layers apart from the at least two layers of filter material arranged one on top of the other. In particular, no layers that match the outer shape of the mouth and nose protector.

The expression “partial connection” stands in particular for a connection in sections, in which there are also sections without a connection in addition to connected sections. The at least two layers are particularly preferably connected to one another over less than 50%, in particular 2-40%, in particular 5-35%, of the total length of their edges. In particular, the partial connection is an integral connection, in particular a welded connection. This makes the connection permanent or no longer detachable. A material connection can be achieved, for example, by gluing. Welded connections are particularly preferred, however, since no additional connecting means are required in this case.

Most preferably, at the upper edges of the two halves, which run from the top of the central fold to the free ends of the two halves, the at least two layers of filter material are not connected to one another between the free ends and the top of the central fold.

Preferably, at the lower edges of the two halves, which run from the lowermost area of the central fold to the free ends of the two halves, the at least two layers of filter material are not connected to one another between the free ends and the lowermost area of the central fold.

These areas of the mouth and nose protector are severely deformed when they are put on the face, so that a certain relative movement between the at least two layers greatly improves the fitting, which increases the tightness of the mouth and nose protector and also improves wearing comfort.

More preferably, the upper edges of the two halves, which extend from the top portion of the central fold to the free ends of the two halves, have a concave, downwardly curved shape. This allows the mouth-nose protection to adapt better to the transition between the nose and cheek area without unwanted bulging occurring. In principle, however, other forms are also conceivable.

The lower edges of the two halves, which run from the lowermost area of the central fold to the free ends of the two halves, are preferably configured in a straight line. This allows the mouth and nose protector to be pulled back optimally and at the same time the lower parts of the face are covered by the mouth and nose protector. However, differently shaped edges, eg concave edges curved upwards, are also possible. According to a further advantageous embodiment, the mouth and nose protector is symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry which runs from the central area of the front end, in particular from the central area of the central fold, to the central area of the rear end of the mouth and nose protector. This is especially true when the two halves are on top of each other. A symmetrical shape of the mouth and nose protector has the advantage that it is always put on correctly, regardless of the orientation, which increases safety.

It has proven to be particularly preferred that the upper edges of the two halves, which run from the top of the central fold to the free ends of the two halves, have a concave downward curved shape, while the lower edges of the two halves, which running from the lowest part of the central fold to the free ends of the two halves, have a corresponding concave upwardly curved shape.

The at least two layers of the filter material are preferably connected to one another at least partially, in particular completely, in the area of the central fold. This is preferably an integral connection, in particular a welded connection. In the area of the central fold, a relative movement of the at least two layers is not necessary in order to achieve good adaptation to the shape of the face. However, the partial connection creates a stable connection between the two layers and a defined chin-nose line.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least two layers of the filter material are connected to one another exclusively in the area of the central fold and in the areas of the free ends of the two halves. The advantages according to the invention are thus particularly evident and at the same time a robust mouth and nose protector is obtained.

It is also preferred if the at least two layers of filter material are not connected to one another in the areas within the edge areas and/or if the two layers of filter material are only partially connected in the edge areas are connected. This achieves a particularly advantageous relative mobility between the layers.

For special configurations, however, one or more connections, e.g. punctiform and/or linear connections, can also be provided within the edge areas. Under certain circumstances, this can benefit the dimensional stability of the mask.

The at least two layers of the filter material preferably lie loosely and/or unconnected on top of one another over at least 50%, in particular at least 75%, preferably at least 90% of their surface.

The central fold preferably has at least two sections.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the central fold consists of a lower section and an upper section, with the upper section running at an angle to the lower section. An angle between the two sections is preferably 10-80°, in particular 15-50°. In particular, the first and/or the second section run in a straight line.

With such a central fold, the upper section can encompass the area of the nose tip of the wearer, while the lower section covers the mouth and chin area of the wearer, in particular without embracing the chin. This makes it easier to move the jaw under the mouth and nose protector, e.g. when speaking.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the central fold preferably has a lower section, a middle section and an upper section, with the lower section and the upper section running at an angle to the middle section. This in particular in such a way that the lower and the upper section of the central fold are directed obliquely to the rear.

The lower and/or the upper section preferably have an angle of 10-80°, in particular 15-50°, to the middle section.

It is also preferred if all sections of the central fold run in a straight line. With such a central fold, the upper portion may encircle the wearer's nose tip area, while the lower portion may encircle the wearer's chin area. The middle section is then in front of the mouth area. This automatically centers the face mask in a defined position on the face. In particular, this prevents the mouth and nose protector from slipping when speaking or when making facial movements. According to a preferred embodiment, the at least two layers consist of the same filter material. This greatly simplifies production.

However, it is also possible for the at least two layers to consist of different filter material. This can be used, for example, to set the filter effect or to adjust the wearing comfort of the mouth and nose protector.

The filter material is particularly preferably a suspended matter filter material, in particular for separating bacteria and viruses, preferably with a diameter of <1.m, in particular <0.6.m.

In particular, the filter material is a fiber fleece. For example, the filter material is an EPA or HEPA filter material, such as that used in vacuum cleaners.

Particularly preferably, the at least two layers of the filter material together have a permeability for particles up to a size of 0.6 μm, measured according to EN 149:2001+A1:2009, of at most 6%, preferably at most 1%, in particular at most 0.5%. on. This achieves a high protective effect in relation to droplet infections.

The filter material preferably contains plastic fibers, in particular polyolefin and/or polyester fibers, or consists of them. Filter materials containing plastic fibers have the advantage that they can be easily welded, so that the at least two layers of the filter material can be connected without additional connecting means.

However, filter materials made from other fibers can also be used. The filter materials mentioned above are known per se to a person skilled in the art and can be purchased commercially from various suppliers.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, an additional fold is made in each of the two halves, in particular such that when the two halves lie one on top of the other, the areas of the halves lying behind the additional folds can be folded in a superimposed arrangement onto the areas in front of the additional folds .

This allows the mouth and nose protector to be folded compactly when not in use, so that it can be stowed more easily in a trouser pocket, for example.

The additional folds preferably run essentially parallel to the central fold and/or the middle section of the central fold. This allows the mouth and nose protector to be folded without the central fold having to be additionally folded.

The mouth and nose protectors according to the invention also do not require any additional shaping elements, such as metal nose clips. According to a preferred embodiment, the mouth and nose protector according to the invention therefore contains no additional shaping elements, in particular no additional shaping elements in the area of the nose area, very particularly preferably no metal nose clip.

The mouth and nose protector preferably has a magnetic holding element with which the mask can be attached to a third element, e.g. a metal part of a piece of clothing, when not in use.

The magnetic holding element is attached in particular to the means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer.

It is also preferred if a palpable marking is preferred on the face mask in the area of the central fold, in particular at its upper or lower end a protrusion, is attached. This means that the orientation of the face mask can be easily identified by touch even in complete darkness.

It is also preferred if there is structuring in an uppermost section of the central fold at the free edge. The structuring preferably includes one or more projections projecting forwards and/or upwards, in particular sawtooth-shaped projections. The structuring serves on the one hand to make the nose area of the mouth and nose protector palpable and/or to prevent the wearer's glasses from slipping if necessary. The structuring can in particular prevent the glasses from slipping over the mouth and nose protector along the edge of the nose. According to another preferred embodiment, a luminescent marking, preferably a fluorescent and/or phosphorescent marking, is applied in the area of the central fold, in particular at its upper and/or lower end. This allows the orientation of the face mask to be visually recognized in the dark.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the structuring comprises a plurality of rectangular projections projecting upwards, in particular rounded rectangular projections. In other words, the rectangular projections preferably have a convex upper edge. This means that the individual projections are more pleasant to the touch and there is less risk of people injuring themselves on sharp projections

The rectangular projections are preferably spaced apart, in particular regularly spaced apart. This can be used, for example, to secure glasses in different positions against slipping.

However, the markings are optional and can also be omitted.

In particular, a coating to increase friction on human skin is attached to the inside of the innermost filter layer in the upper area. Such a coating can also be referred to as an anti-slip coating. In particular, the coating is a plastic coating, in particular a rubber coating, preferably a latex coating. The coating to increase the friction on human skin is applied in particular in such a way that, when the mouth and nose protector is used as intended, it comes to rest on the bridge of the nose, in particular the lower section of the bridge of the nose. In particular, the coating can be applied in the area of the upper section of the central fold.

The coating to increase friction on human skin can also counteract slippage of the mouth and nose protector, e.g. when facial movements are made.

However, such a coating is optional and can also be omitted.

In a further embodiment, there is at least one projection and/or at least one recess in a partial section on the upper edges of the two halves, which run from the uppermost area of the central fold to the free ends of the two halves. The projections are preferably attached to the innermost layer of the filter material and in particular are folded inwards so that they each rest on the inner sides of the two halves. The projections are preferably at a distance from the central fold and in particular arranged in such a way that, when used as intended, they come to lie in the area of the transition from the nose to the cheek area.

The projections are preferably integral parts of the filter material. However, it is also possible to attach the projections to the two halves as separate components, e.g. by means of a material connection, in particular by gluing and/or welding.

The at least one protrusion on each of the two halves acts as a sealing lip, which reduces the undesired inlet and/or outlet of breathing air at the transition from the nose to the cheek areas of the wearer. A recess can improve the fit of the mouth and nose protector in the nose and cheek area, which also increases the tightness.

In particular, there are several projections, which are preferably in direct contact with one another, or there is one projection on each of the two halves, which is in the region of its free end is divided into several separate sections. This further improves the seal at the transition from the nose to the wearer's cheek areas. This is probably due to the fact that a plurality of projections or a projection with subdivided sections at the free end can better mold to the transition from the nose to the cheek area.

According to a preferred embodiment, the projection is a convexly curved projection and/or the recess is a concavely curved recess. Convex shapes of the projections have proven to be particularly advantageous.

In another advantageous embodiment, the projection is a rectangular projection. In this case, there are preferably several rectangular projections on each of the two halves, which preferably lie directly against one another, or there is one rectangular projection on each of the two halves, which is divided into several separate sections in the region of its free end. This has also turned out to be a particularly preferred measure for increasing the tightness at the transition from the nose to the cheek areas of the wearer.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a padding element is attached to the upper edges of the two halves on the inside of the mouth and nose protector. The padding elements are preferably spaced apart from the central fold on both sides and in particular arranged in such a way that, when used as intended, they come to lie in the area of the transition from the nose to the cheek area. In the area of the central fold there is preferably no padding element at the upper edge. In other words, the two mail items on the two halves are spaced apart and/or unconnected.

On the one hand, the upholstery elements can increase the wearing comfort and, on the other hand, an additional seal is achieved at the transition from the nose to the cheek area.

The padding elements preferably have a smaller material thickness at an end directed toward the central fold and/or at an end remote from the central fold than in a central area in between. The material thickness preferably increases continuously from both sides towards the central area. The continuous increase can be linear and/or corresponding to a curved line, for example. This provides continuous transitions of flexibility in one direction along the upper edges, increasing comfort and improving sealing.

The front ends of the padding elements are preferably tapered in a wedge shape and/or the front end faces are inclined backwards. This creates a more continuous transition in the nose area. It is also preferred if the rear ends of the padding elements are tapered in a wedge shape and/or the rear end faces are inclined backwards. This results in a more continuous transition to the cheek area.

The cushioning elements are preferably in the form of a cuneiform or an elongated parallelepiped.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the cushioning elements have the shape of a trapezoidal prism. The padding elements are attached in particular with their trapezoidal bases to the upper edges of the two halves on the inside of the mouth and nose protector. This in particular in such a way that the longest side of the trapezoidal base area runs along the respective upper edge.

The trapezoidal prismatic cushioning elements provide particularly continuous transitions of flexibility in one direction along the upper edges, which in turn contributes to a better seal in the nose and cheek area. If an additional fold is made in each of the two halves, as described above, the padding elements on the two halves are preferably arranged in front of the additional folds. This allows the two halves to fold better around the folds. In particular, the padding elements do not have to be folded as well in this case if the areas of the halves located behind the additional folds are folded in a superimposed arrangement onto the areas located in front of the additional folds. This allows the mouth and nose protector to be folded more compactly when not in use.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the two essentially congruent halves are in an area spaced apart from the edges and the central fold connected to each other via a connecting element. The connecting element is preferably a thread-like element, particularly preferably an elastic band and/or a thread. In particular, it is a thread.

The connecting element is preferably arranged in such a way that, when the mouth and nose protector is used as intended, it runs between the upper lip and the lower edge of the nose of the wearer. In particular, the connecting element is arranged 0.5-2.5 cm, in particular 1-2 cm, behind the central fold. In particular, the connecting element is spaced a distance of 15-50%, in particular 20-40%, of the total length of the central fold from the upper end thereof.

A length of the connecting element preferably corresponds somewhat to the intended width of a nose, in particular approx. 1-4 cm, in particular 2-3 cm. With different sizes of mouth and nose protection, the length of the connecting element can therefore be different.

The means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer preferably comprises an elastic band, a strap and/or one or more loops made of an elastic material.

A loop made of an elastic material is particularly preferably attached to the two ends facing away from the central fold as a means for fastening the mouth and nose protector to the ears or to the back of the head of a wearer.

The means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or to the back of the head of a wearer is preferably attached to the mouth and nose protector in a materially bonded manner, particularly preferably by welding.

At least one, preferably two, stoppers are preferably attached to the means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer, with which the length of the means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer can be adjusted. This can be a clamp stopper, for example, in which the means or means for attaching the mouth-nose Protection on the ears or on the back of a wearer's head can be clamped by a spring mechanism in an opening.

It is also preferred if there are one or more markings, in particular in the form of a scale, on the means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer. This in particular in such a way that a stopper can be moved and positioned along the marking(s). The marking or markings are preferably one or more colored markings, in particular in the form of a colored scale. With such markings, the wearer can easily and reproducibly adjust the width that suits him or her on the means for fastening the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer.

One or more markings, in particular in the form of a scale, are preferably located on the left side of the means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of the wearer's head, which has or have a different color than one or several markings, in particular in the form of a scale, which is or are attached to the right side of the means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of the wearer's head. This makes it easy to visually distinguish between the left and right sides of the mouth and nose protector, which helps when putting on the mouth and nose protector correctly.

In particular, as a means for attaching the face mask to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer, a loop made of an elastic material is attached to both ends facing away from the central fold, with one or more markings on each of the loops, in particular in form of a scale.

Preferably, the marking(s) attached to the two loops, in particular in the form of a scale, have a different color. Due to the different coloring, the user can detect the left and the right side of the mouth and nose protector in a simple and reliable manner. This means that the face mask can be put on correctly the first time.

In particular, the two loops each have a color marking at the rearmost end, whereby the color marking on the left loop differs from the Color marking on the right loop differs. This allows the left and right sides of the face mask to be distinguished even when viewed from the rear in the folded state.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the mouth and nose protector has at least one fixing element with which the two congruent halves can be held together at the ends facing away from the central fold when not in use. This means that the mouth and nose protector can be folded up in a well-defined state and stowed in a trouser or jacket pocket, for example, without the mouth and nose protector becoming creased or getting dirty on the inside.

The fixing element preferably contains at least two magnets, one magnet each being attached to the ends of the two congruent halves of the mouth and nose protector facing away from the central fold. The magnets are in particular arranged in such a way that when they are placed one on top of the other they are attracted by a magnetic force.

Particularly preferably, at least two magnets spaced apart from one another are attached to each of the two halves, which magnets can interact with the respective opposite two magnets. This allows the two halves to be held even more stably when folded.

However, other fixing elements, e.g. clips, snaps, hooks and/or eyes, are also possible.

For transport, storage and storage purposes, the mouth and nose protector is welded into a plastic film, in particular by vacuum welding.

The mouth and nose protector is in particular folded around the additional folds, with the means for fastening the mouth and nose protector to the ears or to the back of the head of a wearer being present next to the folded layers.

This means that the mouth and nose protector is protected as best as possible against environmental influences and mechanical damage until it is used for the first time. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for producing a mouth and nose protector as described above, wherein at least two layers of filter material arranged one above the other, which define the outer shape of the mouth and nose protector, are only partially connected at their edges will.

As mentioned above, the connection is preferably made by a materially bonded connection technique, in particular by welding.

A first particularly preferred method comprises the following steps: a) providing a one-piece first layer of a filter material with an axisymmetric shape and a substantially congruent, one-piece second layer of a filter material and arranging the two layers one on top of the other; b) folding the two layers along the axis of symmetry and introducing a central fold; c) Partial bonding of the two layers at their edges; d) Attaching a means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or to the back of the head of a wearer at the ends of the two halves facing away from the central fold.

With this method, the face mask can be made from one-piece layers.

A second particularly preferred method comprises the following steps: a) providing a first half of a first layer of a filter material and a second half of the first layer; b) providing a first half of a second layer of filter material and a second half of the second layer, the halves of the second layer being substantially congruent with the halves of the first layer; c) arranging the first half of the first layer and the first half of the second layer and the second half of the first layer and the second half of the second layer one on top of the other; d) Partial connection of the layers in the edge area of the intended chin-nose line of the mouth-nose protection, forming a central fold; e) Attaching a means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or to the back of the head of a wearer at the ends of the two halves facing away from the central fold.

With this method, the individual halves are joined at the central fold.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a mouth and nose protector as described above for reducing the transmission of pathogens through secretion droplets.

Further advantageous embodiments and combinations of features of the invention result from the following detailed description and the entirety of the patent claims.

Brief description of the drawings

The drawings used to explain the embodiment show:

1 shows a first mouth and nose protector according to the invention in a top view from the left side;

FIG. 2 shows the face mask from FIG. 1 viewed from above; FIG.

3 shows the mouth and nose protector from FIGS. 1 and 2 in the wearing position on the head of a wearer (the mouth and nose protector is shown transparent for better illustration);

4 shows a second mouth and nose protector according to the invention with a central fold that is only partially welded, in a top view of the left side; Fig. 5 shows a third inventive mouth and nose protection, which in a

Section of the upper edge has a convexly curved projection as a sealing lip;

Fig. 6 shows a fourth inventive mouth and nose protection, which in a

Section of the upper edge has an additional concavely curved recess;

Fig. 7 on the left, the individual layers of filter material, which

Production of the mouth and nose protector from FIGS. 1 - 3 and welded at the left edge areas to form a central fold. The other components are shown on the right-hand side of FIG. 7;

FIG. 8 shows a layer of filter material consisting of two congruent halves, as is used to produce the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 4;

9 shows the mouth and nose protector from FIGS. 1-3 in the folded state;

10 shows the mouth and nose protector from FIGS. 1 - 3 in the folded state in a

plastic film in vacuum-sealed condition;

11 shows a top view from the left side of another mouth and nose protector which is constructed like the mouth and nose protector from FIGS. 1-3, but in contrast to this has a two-part central fold;

Fig. 12 is a left side elevational view of a mouth and nose protector having structure in the upper portion of the central fold in the form of a plurality of forwardly upstanding, sawtooth-shaped projections;

13 shows a plan view from above of a mouth and nose protector with a connecting element in the form of a fabric thread which connects the two essentially congruent halves; FIG. 14 shows the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 13 in the wearing position on a wearer's head (the mouth and nose protector is shown transparent for better illustration), with the connecting element running between the nose and upper lip;

15 shows another mouth and nose protector in a top view from the left side, the mouth and nose protector being essentially identical in construction to the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 5, but having four adjoining rectangular projections instead of the convexly curved projection , which are folded inside out;

FIG. 16 shows the inner layer of filter material, which was used to produce the left half of the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 15, in a plan view;

FIG. 17 shows a variant of the mouth and nose protector FIG. 4 in a plan view from the left;

18 a mouth and nose protector with additional padding elements viewed from the top;

19 shows a mouth and nose protector in a view from the left side, which is symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal axis;

20 shows a side view of another mouth and nose protector which has a structure in the form of a number of rounded rectangular projections projecting upwards as well as scales and color markings on the straps in an upper section of the central fold;

FIG. 21 shows the face mask from FIG. 20 viewed from above. The scale attached to the left side of the hand strap and the color marking at the end of the loop have a different color (e.g. red) than the scale attached to the right side of the hand strap and the color marking at the end of the loop (e.g. green); FIG. 22 shows a detailed view of the structuring on the upper section of the central fold of the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 20;

23 shows a layer of filter material consisting of two congruent halves with trapezoidal prismatic padding elements on the upper edges;

FIG. 24 shows the position from FIG. 23 viewed from the bottom side in FIG. 23;

25 shows a face mask based on two layers of the filter material shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 viewed from the top;

26 shows another mouth and nose protector in which magnets are attached to the rear free ends, which enable the mouth and nose protector to be folded together in a defined manner;

FIG. 27 is a side view of the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 26.

In principle, the same parts are provided with the same reference symbols in the figures.

Ways to carry out the invention

FIG. 1 shows a first mouth and nose protector 10 according to the invention from the left side, while FIG. 2 shows the same mouth and nose protector 10 viewed from the top. The left half of the mouth and nose protector 10 consists of two layers 12.1, 12.2 of a filter material arranged one on top of the other. The right half of the mouth and nose protector 10 is congruent with the left half and also consists of two layers 13.1, 13.2 of the same filter material arranged one on top of the other. The layers 12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2 of the filter material define the outer shape of the mouth and nose protector 10.

The layers 12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2 of the filter material are all congruent (see also FIG. 7) and are welded together in the area of a central fold 11. The central fold 11 forms a chin-nose line of the mouth-nose protection 10 and has a lower section 11a, a middle section 11b and an upper section 11c, each of which runs in a straight line and is developed against one another are. At the upper end of the upper section 1 1 c a spherical projection is attached as a tactile marker. The lower and the upper section 1 1 a, 1 1c is also coated with a phosphorescent paint.

The upper edge 12a of the left half and the upper edge 13a of the right side of the mouth and nose protector 10 extends in a concave curve towards the rear free ends 12c, 13c of the two halves. The lower edges 12b, 13b, on the other hand, run in a straight line.

The two layers 12.1, 12.2 are welded to one another at the edge region of the filter material at the rear free end 12c of the upper edge 12a and at the rear free end 12d of the lower edge 12b. Likewise, the two layers 13.1, 13.2 are welded to one another at the edge region of the filter material at the rear free end 13c of the upper edge 13a and at the rear free end 13d of the lower edge 13b.

The two layers 12.1, 12.2 or 13.1, 13.2 are not connected to one another between the central fold 11 and the rear free ends 12c, 12d, 13c, 13d.

Furthermore, a first loop 15.1 made of elastic material is welded to the rear free ends 12c, 12d of the left half, which serves as a means for fastening the mouth and nose protector 10 to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer. A corresponding second loop 15.2 is attached on the right side. A spherical magnet 16 is also attached to the first loop 15.1, which serves as a magnetic holding element with which the mouth and nose protector 10 can be attached to a metal object when not in use.

The mouth and nose protector 10 also has an additional fold 14.1, 14.2 in the left and right half, with the two additional folds 14.1, 14.2 running essentially parallel to the middle section 11b of the central fold 11 . The folds 14.1, 14.2 serve as defined folding points to fold the mouth and nose protector 10 together (see also FIGS. 9 and 10) and can be introduced, for example, by ironing at elevated temperatures.

The filter material of the mouth and nose protector 10 consists, for example, of a HEPA filter material based on plastic fibers, as is used in vacuum cleaners. The two layers of the filter material together have a maximum permeability of 1% for particles up to a size of 0.6 pm, measured according to EN 149:2001 + A1:2009.

3 shows the mouth and nose protector 10 in the wearing position on the head 1< of a wearer (the mouth and nose protector is shown transparently for better illustration). As can be seen from FIG. 3, the lower portion 11a of the central fold embraces the chin area of the wearer, while the upper portion 11c embraces the nose area. The middle section 11b lies in front of the wearer's mouth area.

FIG. 4 shows a second mouth and nose protector 20 according to the invention in a plan view of the left side. The second mouth and nose protector 20 consists of two one-piece layers of filter material with a left half 22.1 and a right half 23.1 (not visible in Fig. 4), which are loosely folded around each other in the middle section 21b of the central fold 21 (see also Fig. 8). The two layers 22.1, 22.2 are welded to one another on the lower and upper sections 21a, 21c. The rest of the structure of the mouth and nose protector 20 is essentially identical to the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIGS. 1 - 3.

Fig. 5 shows a third mouth and nose protector 30 according to the invention, which is constructed like the mouth and nose protector 10 from Fig. 1, additionally at the upper and concavely curved edge 32a of the left half in a section over a convexly curved projection 39 has. A corresponding convexly curved projection can also be found on the upper edge of the right half (not visible in FIG. 5). The protrusion 39 acts as a sealing lip, which reduces the undesired inflow and/or outflow of respiratory air at the transition from the nose to the cheek areas of the wearer.

FIG. 6 shows a fourth mouth and nose protector 40 according to the invention, which is constructed like the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIG 49 features. A corresponding concave recess is also found at the upper edge of the right half (not visible in FIG. 6). The concavely curved recess 49 improved the fit of the oral Improve nose protection 40 in the nose cheek area, which also increases the tightness.

7 shows the layers 12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2 made of filter material on the left-hand side, which are provided for the production of the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIGS. 1-3 and are welded at the left edge regions to form the central fold 11. The loops 15.1, 15.2 and the spherical magnet 16 are shown on the right in FIG. 7, which are attached to the rear free ends or, in FIG.

13.1, 13.2 are welded in.

8 shows a layer of filter material consisting of two congruent halves

22.1, 23.1, as used to produce the mouth and nose protector 20 from FIG. Two of the layers shown in FIG. 8 are placed one on top of the other, folded about the central axis of symmetry 21b and welded together with the loops (not shown in FIG. 8) at the adjoining sections 21a, 21c and at the free ends.

FIG. 9 shows the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIGS. 1-3 in the folded state. The two halves of the folded mouth and nose protector 10' lie on top of each other and the areas of the halves lying behind the additional folds 14.1, 14.2 are folded in a superimposed arrangement onto the areas in front of the additional folds 14.1, 14.2. The two loops 15.1, 15.2 are also folded back in order to obtain an arrangement that is as space-saving as possible. In the arrangement shown in Fig. 9, the mouth and nose protector 10' can, for example, be stored in a trouser pocket to save space, with the interior areas of the mouth and nose protector 10' being well protected from external influences.

Fig. 10 shows the mouth and nose protector 10" from Figs. 1 - 3 in the folded state in a plastic film V in a vacuum-sealed state. The loops 15.1, 15.2 are present next to the folded layers of the filter material so that no unwanted marks are left or pressure points form in the filter material.The mouth and nose protector can be transported, stored or stored in this state before it is used for the first time. Fig. 1 1 shows another mouth and nose protector 100, which is constructed like the mouth and nose protector 10 from Figs. 1 - 3, but in contrast to this has a two-part central fold 1 1 1, which consists of a lower section 1 1 1 a and an upper portion 1 1 1 b, which are each rectilinear and are processed against each other, there is. Thus, the central fold 1 1 1 with the upper section 1 1 1 b encompass the area of the nose tip of the wearer, while the lower section 1 1 1 a covers the mouth and chin area of the wearer without embracing the chin.

12 shows another mouth and nose protector 200, which is essentially identical in construction to the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIGS a lower section 21 1 a, a middle section 21 1 b and an upper section 21 1 c. In contrast to the upper section 11c of the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIG. 1, however, the upper section 211c of the mouth and nose protector 200 has a structure 217 on the upper free edge in the form of several sawtooth-shaped projections protruding forward . As a result, the nose area of the mouth and nose protector 200 can be easily felt and if the wearer of the mouth and nose protector wears glasses, slipping along the edge of the nose can be prevented.

FIG. 13 shows another mouth and nose protector 300, which is constructed essentially like the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIGS. 1-3, but additionally has a connecting element 350 in the form of a fabric thread. The connecting element 350 connects the two essentially congruent halves or the two left layers 312.1, 312.2 and the two right layers 313.1, 313.2 of the mouth and nose protector 300. The connecting element 350 runs at a distance from the central fold 311 and the upper edges 312a , 313a substantially horizontally from one half to the other. This is so that the connecting element 350 runs between the upper lip O and the lower edge of the nose N of a wearer when the mouth and nose protector 300 is used as intended, which is shown in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 15 shows another mouth and nose protector 400, which is essentially identical in construction to mouth and nose protector 30 from FIG rectangular projections 439.1, 439.2, 439.3, 439.4, which are attached to the upper and concavely curved edge 412a and folded in such a way that they lie side by side on the inside of the left half of the mouth and nose protector 400. Corresponding projections are attached to the right half (not shown in FIG. 15).

FIG. 16 shows the inner layer 412.2 made of filter material, which was used to produce the left half of the mouth and nose protector 400 from FIG. The rectangular projections 439.1, 439.2, 439.3, 439.4 are integral components of the filter material and are folded around the broken line so that they come to rest on the inside in the finished mouth and nose protector 400. The outer layer of the left half of the mouth and nose protector 400 can be designed like the outer layer 12.1 of the mouth and nose protector 10, which is shown in FIG. The right half of the mouth and nose protector 400 is configured accordingly.

FIG. 17 shows another mouth and nose protector 500, which is a variant of the mouth and nose protector 20 from FIG. 4, in a top view of the left side. The mouth and nose protector 500 consists of two one-piece layers which are folded around one another in the lower section 521a of the central fold 521. The two layers are welded together at the middle and upper section 521b, 521c. A latex coating 550 is also applied to the inside of the inner layer of filter material in the area of the upper 521c fold as an anti-slip coating. When using the mouth and nose protector 500, this comes to rest on the lower section of the bridge of the wearer's nose. The rest of the structure of the mouth and nose protector 500 is essentially identical to the mouth and nose protector 20 from Fig. 4.

FIG. 18 shows another mouth and nose protector 600, which is a variant of the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIGS. 1-3, viewed from the top. A padding element 660.1, 660.2 is attached to the inside of the mouth and nose protector 600 at the upper edges 612a, 613a of the two halves. The padding elements 660.1, 660.2 are made of foam and have the shape of a parallelepiped. They are placed between the central fold 611 and the additional folds 614.1, 614.2, respectively. In other words, the front ends of the padding members 660.1, 660.2 are spaced from the central fold 611 and the rear ends are forward of the additional folds 614.1, 614.2. The front ends of the padding elements 660.1, 660.2 taper in the shape of a wedge and their front end faces are inclined backwards. This creates continuous transitions in the nose area and in the cheek area. The rest of the structure of the mouth and nose protector 600 is essentially identical to the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIGS. 1 - 3.

FIG. 19 shows another mouth and nose protector 700 in a plan view from the left. The mouth and nose protector 700 is symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry 701 which runs from the central area of the central fold 71 1 to the central area of the rear end 780 of the mouth and nose protector 700 . Accordingly, the central fold 71 1 is also symmetrical with respect to the axis of symmetry 701. The left half of the mouth and nose protector 700 shown and the right half lying behind it are identical in construction. Like the mouth and nose protector 10 from FIGS. 1 - 3, the mouth and nose protector 700 also has a total of four layers of filter material (2 per half), which are continuously welded in the area of the central fold 71 1 . The mouth and nose protector 700 also has a clamp stopper 716 on the loop 715.1 made of elastic material, with which the size of the loop 715.1 can be changed.

FIG. 20 shows a side view of another mouth and nose protector 800, which is essentially identical in construction to the mouth and nose protector 200 from FIG a lower section 81 1 a, a middle section 81 1 b and an upper section 81 1 c. On the upper section 811c, the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 20 has a structure 817 in the form of a number of rounded rectangular projections projecting upwards. 21 shows the mouth and nose protector 800 viewed from the top.

FIG. 22 shows a detailed view of the structure 817. In contrast to the projections of the embodiment in FIG. 12, the projections in the mouth and nose protector 800 do not taper to a point, but end in a convex-shaped upper edge. This means that the individual projections are more pleasant to the touch and there is less risk of people injuring themselves on sharp projections. Another special feature of the mouth and nose protector 800 are the loops 815.1, 815.2 made of elastic material that are welded into the free rear ends and serve as a means of attaching the mouth and nose protector 800 to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer.

The left loop 815.1 has a scale 815.1a consisting of regularly applied red markings. The scale 815.1a makes it possible to position the clamp stopper 816.1 at a predetermined point. The user can thus set the width of the left loop 815.1 that suits him in a simple manner. Another red marking 815.1b is also attached to the rearmost end of the left loop 815.1, which is clearly visible when viewed from the rear of the mouth and nose protector 800.

The right loop 815.2 also has a scale 815.2a consisting of regularly applied green color markings. The scale 815.2a makes it possible to also position the second clamp stopper 816.2 at a predetermined point in order to set the width of the right-hand loop 815.2. Another green marking 815.2b is attached to the rear end of the right-hand loop 815.2

Due to the different colors of the scales 815.1a, 815.2a, the user can detect the left and the right side of the mouth and nose protector 800 in a simple and reliable manner. Due to the two differently colored additional markings 815.1b, 815.2b at the rearmost ends of the loop, this is also possible when the user looks at the mouth and nose protector 800 from the rear.

FIG. 23 shows a layer of filter material consisting of two congruent halves 22.1', 23.1', as can be used instead of the layer from FIG. 8, in a plan view from above.

In comparison with the layer from FIG. 8, the layer from FIG. 23 additionally has an essentially trapezoidal prismatic padding element 60.1', 60.2' on the inside at the upper edges 12a', 13a' of the two halves 22.1', 23.1'. , which is respectively formed on the upper edge 12a', 13a'. The padding elements 60.1', 60.2' are included their trapezoidal bases on the two halves 22.1 ', 23.1' glued, so that the longest side of the trapezoidal base along the respective upper edge 12a ', 13a' runs. FIG. 24 shows the position from FIG. 23 viewed from the bottom side in FIG.

To produce a mouth and nose protector 20' as shown in Fig. 25, two of the layers shown in Fig. 23 are placed on top of each other, folded about the central axis of symmetry 21b' and attached to the adjoining sections 21a', 21 c' and welded together with loops at the free ends.

The trapezoidal prismatic padding elements 60.1', 60.2' result in continuous flexibility transitions in one direction along the upper edges 12a', 13a', which in turn contributes to better sealing in the nose and cheek area.

FIG. 26 shows a variant of the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 2 from above. FIG. 27 shows the face mask from FIG. 26 viewed from the left side. The elements of the mouth and nose protector 10', which correspond to the elements of the mouth and nose protector from FIG. 2, have the same numbers, but also have an apostrophe C).

The mouth and nose protector 10' from FIGS. 26 and 27 has a magnet 18.1c', 18.1d', 18.2c', 18.2d' as a fixing element. Opposite magnets 18.1c', 18.2c' and 18.1d', 18.2d' are selected in such a way that they attract each other magnetically when they are placed one on top of the other. The mouth and nose protector 10' can thus be folded up in a well-defined and predetermined state and stowed in a trouser or jacket pocket, for example, without the mouth and nose protector 10' becoming crumpled.

The embodiments shown above are only to be understood as illustrative examples, which can be modified as desired within the scope of the invention.

For example, it is possible to provide differently configured central folds 11, 21, which have curved sections, for example. The mouth and nose protectors 10, 20, 30, 40 can also be produced with differently designed edges, for example differently curved edges. For example, the lower edges of the mouth and nose protectors 10, 20, 30, 40 can be concavely curved upwards.

More than two layers can also be combined with one another, for example to increase filter performance. It is also possible to provide additional layers without a filter effect, for example decorative layers on the outside of the face mask or layers for padding on the inside of the face mask to improve comfort.

With all mouth and nose protectors, the clamp stoppers 716 or similar devices can also be attached to the elastic loops.

In summary, it can be stated that advantageous mouth and nose protectors have been provided which are characterized in particular by high effectiveness, good wearing comfort and ease of manufacture.

Claims

patent claims

1. Mouth and nose protection (10), in particular for reducing the transmission of pathogens through secretion droplets, the mouth and nose protection having a central fold (11) which defines a chin-nose line of the mouth and nose protection defined and divides the mouth and nose protector (10) into two essentially congruent halves and at the ends of the two halves facing away from the central fold (11) one means (15.1, 15.2) for fastening the mouth and nose protector the ears or on the back of the head of a wearer, the mouth and nose protector (10) having at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) of a filter material arranged one on top of the other, which shape the outer shape of the mouth and nose protector (10) define, having, wherein the at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) are only partially connected at their edges (11, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d).

2. Mouth and nose protection according to claim 1, characterized in that the partial connection is a material connection, in particular a welded connection.

3. Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) of the filter material arranged one above the other are essentially congruent.

4. Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) are less than 50%, in particular 2-40%, in particular 5-35%, connected to each other along the entire length of their edges.

5. Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the upper edges (12a, 13a) of the two halves, which run from the top area of the central fold (11) to the free ends (12c, 13c ) of the two halves, the at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) of the filter material are not connected to one another.

6. Mouth and nose protector according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper edges (12a, 13a) of the two halves, which run from the top area of the central fold (11) to the free ends (12c, 13c) of the two halves extend, have a concave shape curved downwards.

7. Mouth and nose protector according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the lower edges (12b, 13b) of the two halves, which run from the lowest area of the central fold (11) to the free ends (12d, 13d ) of the two halves, the at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) of the filter material are not connected to one another.

8. Mouth and nose protection (300) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two substantially congruent halves in one of the edges (312a, 313a) and the central fold (31 1) spaced region via a connecting element (350) are connected to each other, preferably via a thread-like element.

9. Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) of the filter material in the area of the central fold (11) are partially or continuously connected to one another.

10. Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) of the filter material exclusively in the area of the central fold (11) and in the areas of the free ends (12c, 12d, 13c, 13d) of the two halves are connected to each other.

1 1. Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central fold (1 1) has a lower portion (1 1a), a middle portion (1 1 b) and an upper portion (1 1 c ), wherein the lower section (11a) and the upper section (11c) run at an angle to the middle section (11b), in particular at an angle of 10-80°, preferably 15-50°, to the middle section (11b). Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two layers (12c, 12d, 13c, 13d) of the filter material together have a permeability for particles up to a size of 0.6 pm, measured according to EN 149:2001 + A 1 :2009 of at most 6%, preferably at most 1%, in particular at most 0.5%. Mouth and nose protector according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter material contains or consists of plastic fibers, in particular polyolefin and/or polyester fibers. Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an additional fold (14.1, 14.2) is introduced in each of the two halves, in particular in such a way that when the two halves lie one on top of the other, behind the additional folds (14.1, 14.2) lying areas of the halves can be folded in superimposed arrangement onto the areas lying in front of the additional folds (14.1, 14.2). Mouth and nose protection according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mouth and nose protection has a magnetic retaining element (16) with which the mouth and nose protection can be attached to a metal object when not in use. Mouth and nose protector (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the area of the central fold (11), in particular at its upper and/or lower end, a palpable marking (17), preferably a projection, is attached. Mouth and nose protection (200) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that there is a structure (217) on the free edge in an uppermost section (21 1 c) of the central fold (21 1), the structure being preferred has one or more projections projecting forwards and/or upwards, in particular sawtooth-shaped projections. Mouth and nose protection (800) according to Claim 17, characterized in that the structure (817) has a plurality of spaced-apart rectangular projections, in particular rounded-off rectangular projections. Mouth and nose protector (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the area of the central fold (11), in particular at its upper and/or lower end, a luminescent marking, preferably a fluorescent and/or phosphorescent one Marking is attached. Mouth and nose protection (30, 40, 400) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the upper edges (32a, 42a, 412a) of the two halves, which extend from the top area of the central fold to the free ends of the both halves, at least one projection (39, 439.1, 439.2, 439.3, 439.4), in particular a plurality of projections lying against one another, and/or at least one recess is present in a partial section. Mouth and nose protection (30, 40) according to Claim 20, characterized in that the at least one projection is a convexly curved projection (39) or the recess is a concavely curved recess (49). Mouth and nose protection (400) according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the at least one projection is attached to the innermost layer of the filter material and is folded in particular inwards so that it rests on the inner sides of the respective half. Mouth and nose protection (20', 600) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the upper edges (12a ¹ , 13a', 612a, 613a) of the two halves (22.1', 23.1') on the inside of the Mouth and nose protection each have a padding element (60.1 ', 60.2', 660.1, 660.2) attached, which are preferably padding elements in the form of trapezoidal prisms. Mouth and nose protection (700, 800) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means (715.1, 815.1, 815.2) for fastening the mouth and nose protection to the ears or the back of a wearer's head at least one, preferably two, stoppers (716, 816.1, 816.2) are attached, with which the length of the means (715.1, 815.1, 815.2) for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or the back of a wearer's head can be adjusted.

25. Mouth and nose protection (800) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means (815.1, 815.2) for fastening the mouth and nose protection to the ears or the back of the head of a wearer has one or more markings (815.1a , 815.1b, 815.2a, 815.2b), in particular in the form of a scale, is/are present, with one or more color markings, in particular in the form of a colored scale, preferably being involved.

26. Mouth and nose protection (800) according to claims 24 and 25, characterized in that the at least one stopper (816.1, 816.2) along the marking(s) (815.1a, 815.2a), in particular along the scale, can be moved and positioned.

27. Mouth and nose protection (700, 800) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that as a means for fastening (715.1, 815.1, 815.2) of the mouth and nose protection on the ears or on the back of a wearer's head on both central fold (71 1, 81 1) facing away from each end a loop made of an elastic material is attached.

28. Mouth and nose protector (800) according to claim 27, characterized in that one or more markings (815.1a, 815.1b, 815.2a, 815.2b), in particular in the form of a scale, are on both loops (815.1, 815.2). , is present, with the markings on the two loops having different colors.

29. Mouth and nose protection (10 ') according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one fixing element (18.1c ¹ , 18.1 d ', 18.2c', 18.2d ') is present, with which the two congruent halves ends remote from the central fold can be held together when not in use.

30. Mouth and nose protection (10 ') according to claim 29, characterized in that the fixing element (18.1 c', 18. 1d ', 18.2c', 18.2d ') includes at least two magnets, one magnet each on the ends (12c', 12d') remote from the central fold (11'), 13c′, 13d′) of the two congruent halves of the mouth and nose protector are attached to it, with the magnets being arranged in particular in such a way that they attract each other when placed on top of one another by magnetic forces.

31. Mouth and nose protector (700) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mouth and nose protector is symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry (701) which runs from the central area of the front end to the central area of the rear end of the mouth and nose protector runs.

32. Mouth and nose protection (10") according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is welded into a plastic film (V).

33. Mouth and nose protection (10") according to claim 32, characterized in that the mouth and nose protection is folded around the additional folds, the means (15.1, 15.2) for fastening the mouth and nose protection to the ears or at the back of a wearer's head adjacent to the pleated layers.

34. A method for producing a mouth and nose protector (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two layers (12.1, 12.2, 13.1, 13.2) of a filter material arranged one on top of the other, which the outer shape of the mouth and nose -Define protection, are only partially connected at their edges.

35. A method for producing a mouth and nose protector according to claim 34, comprising the steps: a) providing a one-piece first layer (22.1, 23.1) of a filter material with an axisymmetric shape and a substantially congruent, one-piece second layer of a filter material and arranging the both layers on top of each other; b) folding the two layers along the axis of symmetry and introducing a central fold (21); c) Partial bonding of the two layers at their edges; d) Attaching a means for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or to the back of the head of a wearer at the ends of the two halves facing away from the central fold. Method for producing a mouth and nose protector according to at least one of Claims 34 - 35, comprising the steps of: a) providing a first half (12.1) of a first layer of a filter material and a second half (13.1) of the first layer; b) providing a first half (12.2) of a second layer of filter material and a second half (13.2) of the second layer, the halves of the second layer being essentially congruent with the halves of the first layer; c) arranging the first half (12.1) of the first layer and the first half (12.2) of the second layer and the second half (13.1) of the first layer and the second half (13.2) of the second layer one on top of the other; d) Partial joining of the layers in the edge area of the intended chin-nose line of the mouth-nose protection, forming a central fold (11); e) Attaching one means each (15.1, 15.2) for attaching the mouth and nose protector to the ears or to the back of the head of a wearer at the ends of the two halves facing away from the central fold. Use of a mouth and nose protector (10, 10', 20, 20', 30, 40, 700, 800) according to at least one of the preceding claims for reducing the transmission of pathogens through secretion droplets.