TWI893279B - Ear hanging member for mask, and mask - Google Patents

Abstract

A mask earhook member is an annular sheet-shaped member having a first direction corresponding to the vertical direction of the mask and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction when viewed from above. The member comprises a first surface material, a second surface material disposed on a side opposite to the first surface material, and a plurality of stretchable strips. The stretchable strips are separated in the first direction and extend along the second direction between the first and second surface materials. The stretchable strips are respectively joined to the first and second surface materials in an extended state.

Description

Ear hanging member for mask, and mask

The present invention relates to an ear hanging member for a mask, and a mask.

As a mask worn on the face, a widely known mask includes: a mask body, which at least partially covers the wearer's face; and a pair of ear hanging members, that is, a pair of members that can be hung on the wearer's ears in order to hold the mask body in the wearing position, which are respectively coupled to the mask body.

While the ear hooks of these masks are often in the form of strips, research is underway into sheet-shaped ear hooks (ear hook portions) to reduce the load on the ears and provide a comfortable fit. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a mask having a single sheet-shaped ear hook, with both ear hook portions connected to each other by a connecting portion and extending on the same plane. Patent Document 1 also mentions stretchable or extensible nonwoven fabrics, stretchable hot-melt adhesive nonwoven fabrics, and the like as materials for the ear hooks. [Prior Art Document] (Patent Document)

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5762803

[Problem to be Solved by the Invention] In recent years, masks have become increasingly popular among people of all ages, both men and women. Consequently, there is a demand for a variety of masks tailored to the size of the user's face, dimensions, and preferred feel. However, ear clips made of stretchable nonwoven fabrics, such as those described in Patent Document 1, cannot be adjusted over a wide range of stretchability, potentially failing to meet the various needs of the user. Therefore, there is a need for an ear clip for a mask that allows for easier adjustment of stretchability.

In light of the above-mentioned circumstances, one aspect of the present invention aims to solve the problem of providing an ear strap for a mask that allows for easier adjustment of its elasticity. [Technical Solution]

One aspect of the present invention is a mask ear hanging member, which is an annular sheet-shaped mask ear hanging member. When viewed from above, it has a first direction corresponding to the vertical direction of the mask and a second direction orthogonal to the aforementioned first direction. The member comprises a first surface material, a second surface material arranged on a side opposite to the aforementioned first surface material, and a plurality of stretchable strips. The stretchable strips are separated in the aforementioned first direction between the aforementioned first surface material and the aforementioned second surface material and extend respectively along the aforementioned second direction. In addition, the aforementioned stretchable strips are respectively joined to the aforementioned first surface material and the aforementioned second surface material in an extended state.

[Effects] According to one aspect of the present invention, a mask ear strap with easier elasticity adjustment can be provided.

Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, unless otherwise specified, identical or corresponding structures will be designated by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

(Basic Structure of a Mask) This type of mask can cover the wearer's face, more specifically, at least the nose and mouth. This type of mask can prevent foreign matter from reaching the face and prevent the spread of droplets generated by the wearer, and is also called a sanitary mask or medical mask. This type of mask is suitable for use as a disposable mask, but can also be used repeatedly through washing, etc.

Figure 1 shows a plan view of a mask 1. Figure 1 shows the mask 1 from the outer surface, i.e., the side that is not facing the face when worn and is exposed to the outside. Figure 2 shows a plan view of the mask from the inner surface (face side). Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I in Figure 1.

As shown in Figure 1, the mask 1 according to this embodiment comprises: a mask body 10, which, when worn, is positioned in front of the wearer's face, primarily covering the wearer's nose and mouth; and a pair of ear hooks 20a, 20a, which are attached to the mask body 10. The mask body 10 has a longitudinal direction (first direction) D1, which corresponds to the vertical direction of the wearer's face when worn; and a transverse direction (second direction) D2, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (first direction) D1 and corresponds to the left and right direction of the wearer's face when worn. In the embodiment of Figure 1, the mask body 10 has a rectangular top-view shape, with the long side in the transverse direction D2. However, the top-view shape of the mask body 10 is not limited to that shown.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the mask body 10 has a pleated structure 15 formed by a plurality of folds (pleats) arranged in a longitudinal direction D1. The pleats of the pleated structure 15 are formed by folding the sheet material constituting the mask body 10 multiple times along fold lines in the transverse direction D2. Furthermore, the plurality of pleats are fixed to the sides of the mask body 10 (ends in the transverse direction D2). Therefore, when the mask 1 is used, the central portion of the pleated structure 15 in the transverse direction D2 can be expanded in the longitudinal direction D1. This allows the central portion of the mask body 10 in the transverse direction D2 to bend so that it protrudes toward the outer surface of the mask 1, thereby deforming the mask into a shape that conforms to the three-dimensional shape of the face. The specific structure of the pleated structure 15 is not particularly limited and can be a well-known structure formed on the mask body.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, a pair of ear hooks 20a, 20a are positioned on the outer surface of the mask body 10. As shown in Figure 1, each ear hook 20a is ring-shaped (or closed-band-shaped) when viewed from above. When worn, the ear hook 20a is secured to the wearer's ear by allowing the wearer's ear to fit within the inner side of the ring, i.e., the central opening 29 of the ear hook 20a. The shape of the ring is not particularly limited, but is preferably a square ring, as described below. However, the ring may also be circular, elliptical, triangular, or other polygonal shapes.

The pair of ear hanging members 20a, 20a can be configured as a sheet-like ear hanging member (ear hanging member sheet) 20 that is separably joined together at the center in the transverse direction D2. In this specification, the term "sheet" or "sheet" refers to a shape having a length and width greater than thickness and extending or capable of extending on a single plane. Therefore, the pair of ear hanging members 20a, 20a in this embodiment differ from strip-like or string-like ear hanging members. A pair of ear hanging members 20a, 20a are formed into an ear hanging member sheet 20. When the mask is worn, when the ear hanging member 20a is hung on the ear, the ear hanging member 20a can contact the back of the earlobe, thereby reducing the load applied to the ear and its surrounding areas, and reducing discomfort and pain, thereby achieving a comfortable wearing feeling.

The connection form of the detachable connecting portion 28 of the pair of ear hanging components 20a, 20a is not particularly limited, but preferably is a connection that can be separated by pulling with the user's normal strength. For example, as shown in Figure 1, a discontinuous groove (cut portion) can be made to form a perforated eyeline. Alternatively, the connecting portion 28 can be formed by reducing the thickness of the sheet or other means to weaken the boundary of the pair of ear hanging components 20a, 20a or to easily apply stress, rather than a perforated eyeline. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the structure of the pair of ear hanging components 20a, 20a can also be linearly symmetrical, with a line passing through the connecting portion 28 along the longitudinal direction D1 as the symmetry line.

The mask body 10 may also have a multi-layer structure composed of multiple layers. For example, it may have a three-layer structure comprising at least an outer layer and an inner layer sandwiching a middle layer, where the middle layer enhances the ability to capture foreign matter (dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses, etc.). The layers comprising the mask body 10 are preferably fiber-containing layers such as nonwovens, fabrics, or knitted fabrics, and more preferably nonwovens. Examples of nonwovens include spunbond nonwovens, spunlace nonwovens, meltblown nonwovens, air-through nonwovens, and point-bonded nonwovens. The middle layer is preferably a meltblown nonwoven fabric containing fine fibers. The fibers constituting the fiber-containing layer are preferably resin fibers. Examples of the resin used for the resin fibers include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and nylon. The outer and inner layers can have a basis weight of 15 to 50 g/ ^m² . The middle layer, which has high foreign matter capture properties, preferably has a basis weight of 10 to 100 g/ ^m² , more preferably 15 to 50 g/ ^m² .

A pair of ear hooks 20a, 20a are attached to the outer surface of the mask body 10 on either side (ends in the transverse direction D2). The ear hooks 20a, 20a are stretchable. In this specification, "stretchable" means having the following properties: when stretched (by applying a tensile force), the length increases in the stretched direction, and when the stretching stops (by removing the tensile force), the length returns to, or nearly returns to, its original length. Furthermore, "stretchability" refers to the property of the material to what extent it stretches when stretched with a specified force and/or the degree of tensile stress it generates when stretched to a specified length.

Furthermore, in the examples shown in Figures 1 to 3, a pair of ear hanging members 20a, 20a are respectively joined to the two sides of the mask body 10 via auxiliary materials 30, 30. The auxiliary materials 30, 30 can be sheet-like members extending along the longitudinal direction D1 of the mask 1. Moreover, the auxiliary materials 30, 30 are respectively joined to the two ends of the mask body 10 in the transverse direction D2 at the outer joints 50, 50. Furthermore, the auxiliary materials 30, 30 are respectively joined to the two ends of the ear hanging member 20 in the transverse direction D2 at the inner joints 60, 60. Both the outer joints 50, 50 and the inner joints 60, 60 can be joined by heat sealing, ultrasonic welding, adhesives, or other joining methods. However, in this embodiment, the optimal joining method can be selected for the outer joining portion 50 between the auxiliary member 30 and the mask body 10, and for the inner joining portion 60 between the auxiliary member 30 and the ear hook member 20. This results in a more secure mask 1 than when the ear hook member 20 is directly joined to the mask body 10. The auxiliary member 30 may also be stretchable, but preferably less stretchable than the ear hook member 20.

(How to Use the Mask) The following describes how to use the mask 1 of this embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3. To begin using the mask 1 of this embodiment, the user disengages the detachable fastening 28 between the pair of ear straps 20a, 20a before donning the mask 1, thereby separating the ear straps 20a, 20a from each other. More specifically, the user can pinch or grasp the ear straps 20a, 20a and pull them in opposite directions. This first disengages the detachable fastening 28. The user then unfolds the portions of the ear straps 20a, 20a not attached to the mask body 10 laterally in the transverse direction D2. At this point, the user can grasp the pair of ear hook members 20a, 20a and open them outward (toward the sides) in the horizontal direction D2.

Figure 4 shows the mask 1 of Figure 1 with the pair of ear clips 20a, 20a unfolded laterally. Furthermore, Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Figure 4 . As shown in Figures 4 and 5 , once the pair of ear clips 20a, 20a are unfolded, they are flipped over, exposing the surfaces that previously faced the mask body 10. Furthermore, nearly the entire outer surface of the mask body 10 is exposed.

The pair of ear hooks 20a, 20a can be positioned on either the outer or inner surface of the mask body 10, as shown in Figures 1 to 5 . Preferably, they are positioned on the outer surface of the mask body 10. Positioning the ear hooks 20a, 20a on the outer surface of the mask body 10 reduces or prevents the possibility of contact with the inner surface of the mask body 10 when the ear hooks 20a, 20a are released from engagement, separated, and opened outward in the horizontal direction D2. This is preferable from a hygiene perspective.

The mask 1 of this embodiment can be used in the following manner. For example, with the mask body 10 facing upward, the user can grasp the pair of ear hooks 20a, 20a and unfold them outward in the horizontal direction D2. While still grasping the ear hooks 20a, 20a, the user can move the mask 1 toward the face of another person (the wearer). After positioning the mask body 10 at the desired position on the wearer's face, the ear hooks 20a, 20a can be attached to the wearer's ears without changing the grip. This makes the mask 1 suitable for use even on children, patients, and other individuals who may find it difficult to wear a mask themselves.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG1 , the pair of ear hook members 20a, 20a may be formed with grips 25, 25. When the pair of ear hook members 20a, 20a are separated from each other and opened outward in the horizontal direction D2, the user can grip the grips 25, 25. The grips 25, 25 protrude from the edge of the mask body 10, preferably from the lower end of the mask 1 (or the lower end of the mask body 10), when viewed from above. The grips 25, 25 protrude from the edge of the mask body 10, thereby allowing the user to grip the grips 25, 25 with both hands without touching or barely touching the mask body 10 itself, i.e., either the outer or inner surface of the mask body 10. Furthermore, the user can detach and unfold the pair of ear loops 20a, 20a without touching, or almost without touching, the mask body 10. This allows the user to wear the mask 1 hygienically, even when they are unable to adequately maintain finger hygiene. Furthermore, when the grip 25 protrudes from the edge of the mask body 10, the maximum longitudinal length D1 of the protruding portion is preferably 5 to 20 mm, more preferably 8 to 15 mm.

The ear clip 20a also has grips 25, 25. This allows the user to easily adjust the ear clip by pinching the grips 25, 25 when attaching the ear clip 20a to the wearer's ear or after attaching it. Specifically, the user can pinch the grips 25, 25 to adjust the position of the ear clip 20a relative to the ear, move it in a circumferential direction, or adjust the tension of the ear clip 20a by pulling or loosening it rearward.

Furthermore, the pair of ear hooks 20a, 20a are not attached to the inner surface (the face surface) of the mask body 10, but rather to the outer surface. Therefore, when the mask 1 is worn, that is, when the ear hooks 20a, 20a are folded sideways and placed on the ears (Figures 4 and 5), the sides of the mask body 10 are pressed against the face from the outer surface via the ear hooks 20a. This reduces the gap between the mask body 10 and the face at the sides of the mask body 10, thereby enhancing the mask's functionality, such as blocking foreign matter and preventing the wearer's coughed droplets from scattering. In addition, the ear hanging member 20a is not arranged on the inner surface side (face side) of the two sides of the main body. Therefore, when wearing, the ear hanging member 20a does not directly contact the wearer's face on the two sides of the mask main body 10, which can also reduce discomfort.

Furthermore, a marking 18 distinguishing the outer and inner surfaces of the mask body 10 can be formed on the mask body 10 by embossing, printing, embroidery, or the like. The marking 18 is not limited in form as long as it is visually recognizable to the user. As shown in FIG. 1 , the marking 18 can be text, numbers, symbols, graphics, or logos.

(Ear Hanging Members) Figure 6 shows only a pair of ear hanging members 20a, 20a (ear hanging member sheet 20) in the mask 1 of Figure 1. As mentioned above, the ear hanging member 20a (or ear hanging member sheet 20) is stretchable. This stretchability is achieved by a plurality of stretchable strips 9, 9, ... arranged spaced apart in the longitudinal direction D1 throughout the entire annular ear hanging member 20a, as shown in Figure 6. The plurality of stretchable strips 9, 9, ... extend in the transverse direction D2, thereby enabling the ear hanging member 20a to be stretchable in the transverse direction D2. The stretchable strips 9, 9, ... preferably extend parallel to the transverse direction D2, but may also be approximately parallel to the transverse direction D2, that is, inclined at approximately ±10°, preferably approximately ±5°, relative to the transverse direction D2. Furthermore, the spacing L (pitch) between the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the longitudinal direction D1 can be approximately 1 to 10 mm.

The stretchable strip 9 can be, for example, a strip or string of elastic material (e.g., rubber cord). The thickness of the stretchable strip 9 is preferably 200 to 1500 dtex, more preferably 400 to 1000 dtex. The cross-sectional shape of the stretchable strip 9 can be circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or other polygonal shapes. Furthermore, the stretchable strip 9 can be made of a material having a maximum elongation of 150% to 1000% of its natural length, as measured by an elongation tester.

Figure 7 shows a partially enlarged view of a cross section taken along line III-III in Figure 6 , and Figure 8 shows a partially enlarged view of a cross section taken along line IV-IV in Figure 6 (a cross section passing through the centerline of the stretchable tape 9). Figure 8(a) shows the stretchable tape 9 stretched outward in the transverse direction D2 by external forces T, T, while Figure 8(b) shows the state in which no external force is applied (a natural state). Furthermore, Figure 8(a) also shows the state in which the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 are joined together while the stretchable tape 9 is stretched during the manufacturing process of the earhook member 20a. Furthermore, Figure 8(b) shows the state after the stretchable tape 9 is released (the stretching of the stretchable tape 9 is stopped) from the state shown in Figure 8(a) during the manufacturing process.

To more specifically describe the production of the earhook member 20a (earhook member sheet 20), while the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... are stretched at a predetermined elongation, the first surface material 2 is positioned on one side of the stretchable strip 9, the second surface material 3 is positioned on the other side of the stretchable strip 9, and the stretchable strip 9 is intermittently joined to the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 at joints 6, 6, ... (Figure 8(a)). Here, the predetermined elongation (the stretched length Le relative to the natural length Ln, i.e., Le/Ln × 100%)) is preferably 100 to 400%, and more preferably 150 to 300%. The stretchable tape 9 and the surface materials 2 and 3 can be joined by adhesive, embroidery, etc. In addition, the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 can be directly joined in the portion where the stretchable tape 9 is not arranged.

After the stretchable strip 9 is joined to the surface materials 2 and 3, if the stretchable strip 9 is released from its stretched state and returned to its natural state, the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 are made of highly flexible materials. The portions of the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3, other than the joining portions 6, 6, ..., of the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3, bulge away from the stretchable strip 9. Consequently, a plurality of small wrinkles extending along the longitudinal direction D1 are formed on the ear hook member 20a, arranged in a transverse direction D2 (Figure 8(b)). The structure of the stretchable sheet having such a plurality of wrinkles (pleats) can be formed in the same manner as conventional stretchable wrinkles. In the actual production of the ear hanging member 20a, after the plurality of stretchable strips 9, 9, ... are sandwiched by the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 to form a joint body, they can be punched into the shape of a pair of ear hanging members 20a, 20a.

The earhook member 20a has a plurality of wrinkles as described above. When the surface of the earhook member 20a contacts the skin, the material of the earhook member 20a does not contact the entire surface of the skin, but a space is formed between the earhook member 20a and the skin. This can reduce the feeling of tight adhesion to the skin and improve the wearing comfort.

The first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 can be made of any soft material and can be the same or different. Furthermore, the first surface material 2 and the second surface material 3 are preferably fiber structures. Examples of the fiber structure include nonwovens, textiles, and knitted products. Nonwovens are preferred because they provide good skin touch and breathability and help improve the wearing experience. Examples of nonwovens include air-through nonwovens, spunbond nonwovens, spunlace nonwovens, needle-punched nonwovens, and chemically bonded nonwovens. Among these, it is possible to appropriately select spunbond nonwovens that do not fuzz and have high strength, and air-through nonwovens that are soft. Furthermore, the fibers contained in the nonwoven fabric may be resin fibers. Examples of the resins used in the resin fibers include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and nylon. When the first surface material 2 or the second surface material 3 is a nonwoven fabric, the basis weight of the nonwoven fabric is preferably 5 to 50 g/ ^m² , more preferably 8 to 25 g/ ^m² .

Thus, the earhook member 20a of this embodiment is a stretchable member constructed using a plurality of stretchable strips 9, 9, ... Therefore, the stretchability of the stretchable strips 9, that is, the extent to which the strips stretch when stretched with a predetermined force, or the degree of tensile stress generated by the strips when stretched to a predetermined length, can be easily and widely adjusted by varying the thickness and material of the stretchable strips 9. Therefore, the stretchability of the earhook member 20a of this embodiment is easily adjusted compared to earhook members constructed using stretchable nonwoven fabrics, etc., or the earhook member sheet 20. In this way, when it is desired to have an ear hanging member 20a that is shorter in a state before use (natural state) but can maintain a longer length when wearing the mask 1, for example, by increasing the elongation of the stretchable tape 9, 9, ... when manufacturing the stretchable tape (relative to the natural length, the length of the stretchable tape when joined to the surface material), it is possible to obtain an ear hanging member 20a that can be stretched longer when stretched. Furthermore, to achieve a closer fit for the mask body 10, using thicker (higher dtex) stretchable tapes 9, 9, ... can generate greater tensile stress when the ear hooks 20a are stretched, thereby enhancing the ability of the ear hooks 20a, 20a to hold the mask body 10 in place. Furthermore, when the stretchable tape 9 is made of an elastic material such as rubber, it can achieve significantly greater stretchability compared to stretchable nonwoven fabrics.

Furthermore, the structure of the multiple stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the ear hanger members 20a, 20a (ear hanger member sheet 20) can be uniform throughout the entire ear hanger members 20a, 20a (ear hanger member sheet 20), or can be partially different depending on the region of the ear hanger members 20a, 20a (ear hanger member sheet 20) (described below). In this case, for example, the thickness, elongation during manufacturing, and arrangement (spacing) of the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... can be different in the upper, central, and lower regions when viewed from the longitudinal direction D1.

According to the present embodiment, the ear hanging member 20a is ring-shaped, and may be a square ring as shown in FIG6 , and preferably a rectangular ring. When the square ring is observed along the circumference of the ring, four shapes can be identified at positions where the direction thereof changes significantly. As shown in FIG6 , a square ring-shaped ear hanging member 20a may have an upper edge portion 23 corresponding to the upper edge of the square ring, and a lower edge portion 26 corresponding to the lower edge of the square ring. The upper edge portion 23 and the lower edge portion 26 are portions that extend in the transverse direction D2 mainly from the mask body 10 toward the ear when worn. Furthermore, the ear hanging member 20a may have: a rear-ear configuration portion 24 that is configured to contact the back of the wearer's ear when worn; and a base portion 22, most of which is joined to the mask body 10. The rear-ear portion 24 is located at the center of the ear-hanging member 20 in the transverse direction D2 and extends along the longitudinal direction D1 between the upper edge 23 and the lower edge 26. The base 22 is located at the end of the ear-hanging member 20 in the transverse direction D2 and extends along the longitudinal direction D1 between the upper edge 23 and the lower edge 26.

Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6 , the earhook member 20a, viewed from the longitudinal direction D1, may have an upper end region E1 corresponding to the upper edge 23, a lower end region E2 corresponding to the lower edge 26, and a central region M between the upper and lower end regions E1 and E2. More specifically, in the case of the shape of the earhook member 20a shown in Figure 6 , the inner periphery of the square ring has four points (p1, p2, p', and p2') where the radius of curvature is minimal. Therefore, if a straight line parallel to the transverse direction D2 is drawn through two of the central points (p1 and p2), the region between these two straight lines can be defined as the central region M. That is, a straight line passing through the first point p1 on the upper side and parallel to the horizontal direction D2 can be used as the boundary between the upper end area E1 and the central area M, and a straight line passing through the second point p1 on the lower side and parallel to the horizontal direction D2 can be used as the boundary between the lower end area E2 and the central area M.

(Variation of Ear Hanging Member) Figure 9 shows ear hanging members 20aA, 20aA (ear hanging member sheet 20A) according to a variation. The basic structure of the ear hanging member 20aA shown in Figure 9 is the same as that of the ear hanging member 20a described with reference to Figures 6 to 8. However, in the ear hanging member 20aA, the thickness of the elastic tapes 9t, 9t, ... used in the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2 is greater than the thickness of the elastic tapes 9, 9, ... used in the central region M. For example, the ratio (DE/DM) of the thickness _DE (dtex) of the stretchable tapes 9t, 9t, ... in the upper end region E1 and/or the lower end region E2 to the thickness _DE (dtex) of the stretchable tapes 9, 9, ... in the central region _M can be preferably set to 1.1 to 3. Furthermore, the thickness _DE of the stretchable tapes 9, 9, ... in the central region M can be 200 to 900 dtex, and the thickness _DE of the stretchable tapes 9t, 9t, ... in the upper end region E1 and/or the lower end region E2 can be 220 to 1200 _dtex .

When the ear strap member 20aA shown in Figure 9 is stretched in the transverse direction D2, greater tensile stress is generated in the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2 in the transverse direction D2 than in the central region M. Here, the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2 correspond to the upper edge 23 and the lower edge 26, respectively, which are significantly stretched in the transverse direction D2 when worn. When the tensile stress in the upper edge 23 and the lower edge 26 is greater, the upper edge 23 and the lower edge 26 can stretch the mask body 10 with greater force, thereby pressing the mask body more firmly toward the face and ensuring a closer fit. On the other hand, the central region M preferably has a certain degree of stretchability in the transverse direction D2. However, a thinner thickness of the stretchable tapes 9, 9, ... can soften the behind-the-ear portion 24 and reduce discomfort caused by the behind-the-ear portion 24 contacting the skin behind the ear. Thus, according to the example shown in FIG9 , an ear clip and mask suitable for wearers who require a well-fitting mask and a comfortable fit around the ears can be provided.

FIG10 shows an ear hang member 20aB, 20aB (ear hang member sheet 20B) according to another variation. The basic structure of the ear hang member 20aB shown in FIG10 is the same as that of the ear hang member 20a described with reference to FIG6 to FIG8 , but in the ear hang member 20aB, the elongation of the stretchable tapes 9s, 9s, ... used in the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2 is greater than the elongation of the stretchable tapes 9, 9, ... used in the central region M. For example, the ratio (RE/RM) of the elongation _RE (dtex) of the stretchable strips 9s, 9s, ... in the upper end region E1 and/or the lower end region E2 to the elongation RE (% _{) of the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the central region M can preferably be set to 1.1 to 2. Furthermore, the elongation RE of the} stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the central region M can be 100 to 300%, and the elongation _RE of the stretchable strips 9s, 9s, ... in the upper end region E1 and/or the lower end region E2 can be 110 to ₄₀₀ %.

The high elongation of the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2 indicates that these regions have a long maximum length when stretched. This allows the upper edge 23 and lower edge 26 corresponding to the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2, respectively, to be significantly stretched. This results in an earhook member that, even when its transverse length D2 is short before being subjected to a stretching force, can be extended when worn. This also allows for a long distance from the mask body to the ear. On the other hand, the rear-ear portion 24 corresponding to the central region M preferably also deforms naturally, exhibiting a certain degree of stretchability, but without excessive stretchability. This prevents the wrinkles in the surface material from being too dense or too thick per unit distance in the transverse direction D2, thereby enhancing the tactile feel when contacting the ear. Thus, the relatively low stretchability of the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the central region M contributes to a more comfortable feel around the ear. Furthermore, Figure 10 schematically illustrates an example of wrinkles extending in the longitudinal direction D1 of the first surface material. As shown in Figure 10, in the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2, the pitch of the surface material's wrinkles in the transverse direction D2 is small, and the wrinkles are densely formed. Meanwhile, in the central region M, the pitch of the surface material's wrinkles in the transverse direction D2 is larger, and the wrinkles are sparsely formed. Thus, in the example shown in Figure 10, a mask suitable for wearers who require a long length from the end of the mask body in the transverse direction D2 to the ear and who require comfort around the ear can be provided.

FIG11 shows an ear hang member 20aC, 20aC (ear hang member sheet 20C) according to another variation. The basic structure of the ear hang member 20aC shown in FIG11 is the same as that of the ear hang member 20a described with reference to FIG6 to FIG8 . A plurality of stretchable strips 9, 9, ... are provided throughout the entire ear hang member 20aC, spaced apart in the longitudinal direction D1 and extending in the transverse direction D2. However, in the ear hang member 20aC, the spacing (pitch) between the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2 is smaller than the spacing in the central region M. For example, the ratio (LE/ _LM) of the spacing _LE of the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the upper end region E1 and/or the lower end region E2 relative to the spacing _LM of the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the central region _M can be preferably set to 1.1 to 2. Furthermore, the spacing LM of the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the central region _M can be 1.1 to 10 mm, and the spacing _LE of the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... in the upper end region E1 and/or the lower end region E2 can be 1 to 5 mm.

In the upper end region E1 and lower end region E2, if the spacing between the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... is small, the number of stretchable strips 9, 9, ... becomes denser. Consequently, when these regions, and the upper edge 23 and lower edge 26 corresponding thereto, are stretched in the transverse direction D2, the tensile stress generated becomes greater than the tensile stress generated in the central region M. Greater tensile stress in the upper edge 23 and lower edge 26 allows them to stretch the mask body 10 with greater force, pressing the mask body more firmly toward the face and ensuring a closer fit. On the other hand, while the central region M preferably has a certain degree of stretchability in the transverse direction D2, the stretchable strips 9, 9, ... are not densely packed within the region. This allows the behind-the-ear portion 24 to be flexible and reduces discomfort around the ear when worn. Thus, according to the example shown in FIG11 , an ear strap and mask suitable for wearers who require a well-fitting mask and comfortable fit around the ear can be provided.

Figure 12 further illustrates a variation of the stretchable strip. The stretchable strips 9w, 9w, ... shown in Figure 12 do not extend in a straight line along the transverse direction D2, but instead form a wave shape with an amplitude in the longitudinal direction D1. Figure 12(a) shows a plan view of the strip without any tensile force applied, while Figure 12(b) shows a plan view of the strip under tension in the transverse direction D2 from both sides. When the wavy stretchable strips 9w, 9w, ... are subjected to a tensile force in the transverse direction D2 from both sides, the stretchable strips 9w themselves stretch in the transverse direction D2, while the amplitude of the wave shape in the longitudinal direction D1 decreases, becoming more similar to a straight line (Figure 12(b)). Specifically, when a material including wavy stretchable strips 9w, 9w, ... extending in the transverse direction D2 is stretched in the transverse direction D2, its length in the transverse direction D2 increases while its length in the longitudinal direction D1 decreases. This corresponding amount of material contributes to the stretching in the transverse direction D2. Consequently, an ear hook member including wavy stretchable strips 9w, 9w, ... can stretch further in the transverse direction D2 (higher stretchability) under the same tensile force compared to an ear hook member including linear stretchable strips 9, 9, ... (e.g., FIG. 6 ). In other words, even with the same degree of elongation, earloops comprising wavy stretchable tapes 9w, 9w, ... produce less stress. Therefore, using earloops comprising wavy stretchable tapes 9w, 9w, ... as shown in FIG12 , it is possible to provide a mask suitable for wearers who wish to avoid excessive pressure from the mask body on their face and the earloops on their ears.

The above describes a configuration in which the mask body and a pair of ear hooks are joined together via auxiliary materials. However, the mask can also be constructed without auxiliary materials. Figure 13 shows a mask 101 constructed without auxiliary materials. In the mask 101, a pair of ear hooks 120a, 120a are directly joined to the end portions of the mask body 10 in the transverse direction D2 at joints 70, 70, respectively. The joints 70, 70 can be formed by the same joining means as the outer joints 50, 50 and the inner joints 60, 60 in the mask 1 (Figures 1 to 5). Furthermore, the pair of ear hooks 120a, 120a form an ear hook member sheet 120.

Furthermore, the features of the above examples and configurations described with reference to the drawings can be incorporated into the configuration individually, or two or more features can be combined and incorporated into the configuration. For example, an ear hook member can be constructed in which the thickness and elongation of the stretchable strip are varied in the upper end region E1 and the lower end region E2.

The specific aspects of the present invention are described below.

(Supplementary Note 1) The embodiment of Supplementary Note 1 relates to a mask ear strap member, which is an annular sheet-shaped mask ear strap member. When viewed from above, the ear strap member has a first direction corresponding to the vertical direction of the mask and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The ear strap member comprises a first surface material, a second surface material disposed on an opposite side of the first surface material, and a plurality of stretchable strips. The stretchable strips are spaced apart in the first direction between the first and second surface materials and extend in the second direction, respectively. The stretchable strips are respectively bonded to the first and second surface materials in an extended state.

In the aspect of Supplementary Note 1 above, the ear clip member is made stretchable using multiple stretchable tapes. Therefore, by appropriately selecting the material and thickness of the stretchable tape (e.g., rubber cord) and/or appropriately selecting the placement and elongation of the stretchable tape, the ear clip member can be given any desired stretchability. This makes it relatively easy to manufacture various mask ear clips that meet user requirements.

Furthermore, the stretchable tape is provided throughout the entire ear strap member and also in the behind-the-ear portion of the ear strap member, which is positioned behind the wearer's ear when worn. This allows not only the upper and lower portions of the ear strap member, which extend from the mask body toward the ear when worn, but also the behind-the-ear portion to have a certain degree of stretchability in the lateral direction D2, thereby enhancing the wearing comfort.

(Supplementary Note 2) In the embodiment of Supplementary Note 2, the first and second surface materials are made of non-woven fabric.

According to the aspect of the above-mentioned Note 2, a non-woven fabric is used as the surface material of the ear hook member, thereby achieving an ear hook member with a good skin touch.

(Supplementary Note 3) In the aspect of Supplementary Note 3, the stretchable tape extends in a wave-like manner having an amplitude in the first direction.

According to the aspect of the above-mentioned Note 3, by configuring the stretchable tape in a corrugated shape, higher stretchability can be obtained, that is, when compared with the same tensile force, the elongated length can be made longer relative to the natural length.

(Supplementary Note 4) In the aspect of Supplementary Note 4, the mask ear clip member has a square ring shape and has an upper edge and a lower edge corresponding to the upper and lower edges of the square ring, respectively. The mask ear clip member, when viewed from the first direction, has an upper end region corresponding to the extension of the upper edge, a lower end region corresponding to the extension of the lower edge, and a central region between the upper end region and the lower end region. Furthermore, at least one of the thickness, elongation, and arrangement spacing of the plurality of stretchable tapes is different in at least one of the upper end region and the lower end region from that in the central region.

According to the aspect of Supplementary Note 4 above, the elastic behavior of the ear strap member can be made different depending on the region of the ear strap member when viewed in the longitudinal direction. For example, by making the elastic tape disposed in the upper and lower end regions thicker and the elastic tape disposed in the central region thinner, when the ear strap member is stretched during wear, the tensile stress generated in the upper and lower end regions can be made greater than the tensile stress generated in the central region. The upper and lower end regions correspond to the upper and lower edges of the ear strap member, respectively, which are significantly stretched in the lateral direction D2 when worn. If the tensile stress in the upper and lower edges is greater, the mask body is pulled more strongly toward the ears, thereby ensuring a closer fit. Meanwhile, the ear strap portion, corresponding to the central region of the ear strap, preferably also has stretchability in the transverse direction D2 to conform to the curve of the ear. However, if the stretchable member is too thick, the wearing feel may be impaired. Therefore, by reducing the thickness of the stretchable tape in the central region, the ear strap portion can maintain its flexibility.

(Supplementary Note 5) In the embodiment of Supplementary Note 5, the mask comprises a mask body and the mask ear clip according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4, wherein the mask ear clip is joined to the outer surface of the mask body.

According to the aspect of the above-mentioned Note 5, a mask can be provided, which has the same effect as that of any of the aspects of the above-mentioned Notes 1 to 4.

This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-051173 filed on March 25, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

1, 101: Mask 2: First surface material 3: Second surface material 6: Joint 9, 9t, 9s, 9w: Stretchable tape 10: Mask body 15: Pleats 18: Marking 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 120: Earloop 20a, 20aA, 20aB, 20aC, 120a: Earloop 22: Base 23: Upper edge 24: Behind-the-ear attachment 25: Grip 26: Lower edge 28: Separable joint 29: Opening 30: Auxiliary material 50: External joint 60: Internal joint 70: Joint D1: First direction (up and down, vertical) D2: Second direction (left and right, horizontal) E1: Upper end area E2: Lower end area L: Layout interval (pitch) M: Center area p1, p2, p', p2': Points

Figure 1 is a plan view of a mask according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the exterior side. Figure 2 is a plan view of the mask shown in Figure 1, viewed from the interior side. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a plan view of a pair of ear clips, each opened laterally. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Figure 4. Figure 6 is a plan view showing only the ear clips of Figure 1. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of a cross section taken along line III-III in Figure 6. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of a cross section taken along line IV-IV in Figure 6. Figure 9 shows a variation of the ear clip. Figure 10 shows another variation of the ear clip. Figure 11 shows another variation of the ear strap. Figure 12 is a plan view showing a variation of the arrangement of the stretchable tape in the ear strap. Figure 13 is a plan view of another embodiment of the mask according to the present invention, viewed from the exterior.

Domestic Storage Information (Please enter in order by institution, date, and number) None International Storage Information (Please enter in order by country, institution, date, and number) None

2: 1st surface material

9: Stretchable Strip

20: Ear hook component

20a: Ear hook component

22: Base

23: Upper part

24: Behind-the-ear configuration

25: Pinch section

26: Lower part

28: Separable junction

29: Opening

D1: First direction (up and down, vertical)

D2: Second direction (left and right, horizontal)

E1: Upper end area

E2: Lower end area

L: Configuration spacing (pitch)

M: Central area

p1, p2, p’, p2’: points

Claims (5)

A mask earhook is an annular sheet-shaped mask earhook. When viewed from above, it has a first direction corresponding to the vertical direction of the mask and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. It has a square ring shape and includes an upper edge and a lower edge corresponding to the upper and lower edges of the square ring, respectively. When viewed from the first direction, it has an upper end region corresponding to the extension range of the upper edge, a lower end region corresponding to the extension range of the lower edge, and a central region between the upper and lower end regions. It also includes a first surface material, a second surface material disposed on an opposite side of the first surface material, and a plurality of stretchable strips, the stretchable strips being separated in the first direction between the first and second surface materials and extending in the second direction. Furthermore, the plurality of stretchable strips are bonded to the first surface material and the second surface material, respectively, in an extended state, and satisfy one or more of the following conditions (i), (ii), or (iii): (i) The thickness of the plurality of stretchable strips is greater in the upper end region and the lower end region than in the central region, and is the same in the upper end region and the lower end region; (ii) The elongation of the plurality of stretchable strips is greater in the upper end region and the lower end region than in the central region, and is the same in the upper end region and the lower end region; (iii) The spacing between the plurality of stretchable strips is smaller in the upper end region and the lower end region than in the central region, and is the same in the upper end region and the lower end region. The ear hanging member for a mask as described in claim 1, wherein the first surface material and the second surface material are made of non-woven fabric. The ear hanging member for a mask as described in claim 1, wherein the stretchable tape extends in a wavy manner with an amplitude in the first direction. The ear hanging member for a mask as described in claim 2, wherein the stretchable tape extends in a wavy manner with an amplitude in the first direction. A mask comprising a mask body and the mask ear hanging member according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the mask ear hanging member is joined to the outer surface of the mask body.