Patent Publication Number: US-2022225701-A1

Title: Non-medical face mask

Description:
FIELD 
     This application relates to the field of personal protective equipment, and more particularly to a non-medical face mask that can be worn to mitigate transmission of contagions. 
     INTRODUCTION 
     Non-medical face masks are well known. Such face masks are typically worn so that they cover the user&#39;s nose and mouth to inhibit passage of virus-carrying droplets. In this way, face masks can be worn to mitigate the spread of contagions, such as coronavirus, influenza, and other respiratory viruses. Known face masks are held against the user&#39;s face by elastic straps that wrap around the user&#39;s ear. Elastic straps cause stress and discomfort on the user&#39;s ears and can even cause sores after prolonged use. 
     Users have heads and ears in a variety of shapes and sizes. Furthermore, everyone has their own preferences when it comes to how to wear their face mask. For example, some users may prefer to wear their face mask as tight to their face as possible, while others may prefer a looser fit if they are required to wear their face mask for extended periods of time. Known face masks do not account for such variance, offering little in the way of adjustability and/or customization. 
    
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
         FIGS. 1A-1D  are perspective, front, side, and rear views, respectively, of a user wearing an exemplary non-medical face mask; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a unitary retaining bead of the face mask of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIGS. 3A-3B  are perspective views of the face mask of  FIG. 1A , with the retaining bead in different positions; 
         FIG. 4  is a detailed view of region A in  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the face mask of  FIG. 1A  shown hanging from a user&#39;s neck while not in use; 
         FIGS. 7A-7C  are side views of a user wearing the face mask of  FIG. 1A , with the retaining bead in a raised position, an intermediate position, and a lowered position, respectively; 
         FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of a bendable nose bar that may be used with the face mask of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 9  is a side view of the face mask of  FIG. 1A ; and 
         FIGS. 10A-10B  are perspective and front views, respectively, of another exemplary non-medical face mask. 
     
    
    
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a non-medical face mask is disclosed. The face mask may include a mask body, a left cord, a right cord, and a unitary retaining bead having a cord constraining passage. The mask body may have upper and lower body edges spaced apart from one another by laterally opposed left and right body edges. The mask body may have a left cord channel along the left body edge and a right cord channel along the right body edge. The left cord may extend from a left cord first end through the left cord channel to a left cord second end. The left cord may be slidable within the left cord channel. The left cord may have a left cord first segment proximate the left cord first end and a left cord second segment proximate the left cord second end. The right cord may extend from a right cord first end through the right cord channel to a right cord second end. The right cord may be slidable within the right cord channel. The right cord may have a right cord first segment proximate the right cord first end and a right cord second segment proximate the right cord second end. Each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment may pass through the cord constraining passage. The cord constraining passage may be sized to frictionally engage the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment such that the unitary retaining bead is held in place along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment. The unitary retaining bead may be slidable along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment to advance the unitary retaining bead toward the mask body. 
     In another aspect, a non-medical face mask is disclosed. The face mask may include a mask body, a left cord, a right cord, and a unitary retaining bead having a cord constraining passage. The mask body may have upper and lower body edges spaced apart from one another by laterally opposed left and right body edges. The mask body may have a left cord channel along the left body edge and a right cord channel along the right body edge. The left cord may extend from a left cord first end through the left cord channel to a left cord second end. The left cord may have a left cord first segment proximate the left cord first end and a left cord second segment proximate the left cord second end. The right cord may extend from a right cord first end through the right cord channel to a right cord second end. The right cord may have a right cord first segment proximate the right cord first end and a right cord second segment proximate the right cord second end. Each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment may pass through the cord constraining passage. The cord constraining passage may be sized to frictionally engage the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment such that the unitary retaining bead is held in place along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment. The unitary retaining bead may be slidable along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment to advance the unitary retaining bead toward the mask body. The left cord first and second ends may be tied through a left cord knot. The right cord first and second ends may be tied through a right cord knot. The left cord knot may obstruct removal of the unitary retaining bead from the left cord first and second ends. The right cord knot may obstruct removal of the unitary retaining bead from the right cord first and second ends. 
     In another aspect, a non-medical face mask is disclosed. The face mask may include a mask body, a left cord, a right cord, and a unitary retaining bead having a cord constraining passage. The mask body may have upper and lower body edges spaced apart from one another by laterally opposed left and right body edges. The left cord may extend from a left cord first end to a left cord second end. The left cord may have a connection to the left body edge between the left cord first and second ends The left cord may have a left cord first segment proximate the left cord first end and a left cord second segment proximate the left cord second end. The right cord may extend from a right cord first end to a right cord second end. The right cord may have a connection to the right body edge between the right cord first and second ends. The right cord may have a right cord first segment proximate the right cord first end and a right cord second segment proximate the right cord second end. Each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment may pass through the cord constraining passage. The cord constraining passage may be sized to frictionally engage the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment such that the unitary retaining bead is held in place along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment. The unitary retaining bead may be slidable along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment to advance the unitary retaining bead toward the mask body. The left cord first and second ends may be tied through a left cord knot. The right cord first and second ends may be tied through a right cord knot. The left cord knot may obstruct removal of the unitary retaining bead from the left cord first and second ends. The right cord knot may obstruct removal of the unitary retaining bead from the right cord first and second ends. 
     DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS 
     Numerous embodiments are described in this application and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not intended to be limiting in any sense. The invention is widely applicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent from the disclosure herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention may be practiced with modification and alteration without departing from the teachings disclosed herein. Although particular features of the present invention may be described with reference to one or more particular embodiments or figures, it should be understood that such features are not limited to usage in the one or more particular embodiments or figures with reference to which they are described. 
     The terms “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the embodiment”, “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the present invention(s)”, unless expressly specified otherwise. 
     The terms “including”, “comprising” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise. A listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise. 
     As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be “coupled”, “connected”, “attached”, “joined”, “affixed”, or “fastened” where the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate parts), so long as a link occurs. As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be “directly coupled”, “directly connected”, “directly attached”, “directly joined”, “directly affixed”, or “directly fastened” where the parts are connected in physical contact with each other. As used herein, two or more parts are said to be “rigidly coupled”, “rigidly connected”, “rigidly attached”, “rigidly joined”, “rigidly affixed”, or “rigidly fastened” where the parts are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. None of the terms “coupled”, “connected”, “attached”, “joined”, “affixed”, and “fastened” distinguish the manner in which two or more parts are joined together. 
       FIGS. 1A-1D  show a non-medical face mask  100  worn by a user  102 . Face mask  100  includes a mask body  104 , a left cord  106 , a right cord  108  and a unitary retaining bead  110 . As shown in  FIGS. 1C and 1D , unitary retaining bead  110  cooperates with left cord and right cords  106 ,  108  to hold mask body  104  against the user&#39;s face. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1B , mask body  104  has upper and lower body edges  112 ,  114  spaced apart from one another by laterally opposed left and right body edges  116 ,  118 . As shown, mask body  104  is sized to cover the user&#39;s nostrils and mouth. By covering the user&#39;s nostrils and mouth, mask body  104  can impede user-expelled droplets from entering the surrounding environment. Mask body  104  can also impede entry of droplets from the surrounding environment into the user&#39;s nostrils and mouth. These droplets may be carriers of contagions, such as COVID-19 or influenza, for example. As a result, users can help limit peer-to-peer transmission of such contagions by wearing face mask  100  over their mouth and nostrils. 
     In the example shown, mask body  104  is worn so that upper body edge  112  spans laterally across the user&#39;s face, i.e. below the eyes. Upper body edge  112  has a central nose-engaging region  120  that sits on the bridge of the user&#39;s nose. Accordingly, the user&#39;s nose may act as a support for mask body  104 . As best shown in  FIG. 1C , lower body edge  114  wraps underneath the user&#39;s chin, i.e. from ear-to-ear. Positioning mask body  104  in such a way allows the lower part of mask body  104  to effectively “cup” the user&#39;s chin, providing an enclosed fit that can limit the passage of contagion-carrying droplets. 
     Mask body  104  can be made from various types of material. Pliant fabrics can readily conform to the unique shape of each user&#39;s face, thereby promoting user comfort. In addition, pliant fabrics permit mask body  104  to be folded for convenient storage while not in use. For example, the pliant fabric may comprise cotton, flannel, chiffon, silk, or a combination thereof. Mask body  104  may include one or more layers of pliant fabric. In some embodiments, mask body  104  may include multiple layers of pliant fabric. Compared to a mask body  104  with a single layer of pliant fabric, a mask body  104  with multiple layers of pliant fabric may make it more difficult for droplets to pass through. For example, mask body  104  may include three layers of tightly woven cotton to effectively prevent against the passage of droplets. In some embodiments, the outer layers of pliant fabric may be selected for softness (e.g. cotton or silk), and the inner layer(s) of pliant fabric may be selected for their efficiency at filtering contagion. For example, an inner layer may include a filter material, such as a non-woven filter material (e.g. non-woven polypropylene). In alternative embodiments, mask body  104  may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as a hard or soft plastic. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1A and 1C , left and right cords  106 ,  108  may be connected to mask body  104  in any manner that allows cords  106 ,  108  to cooperate with unitary retaining bead  110  to securely hold mask body  104  to a user&#39;s head. In the illustrated example, mask body  104  has a left cord channel  122  along the left body edge  116  and a right cord channel  124  along the right body edge  118 . Left and right cord channels  122 ,  124  are sized so that corresponding left and right cords  106 ,  108  can pass therethrough. Left and right cord channels  122 ,  124  can be formed in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, left and right cord channels  122 ,  124  can be formed by the pliant fabric of mask body  104  itself. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1C , left and right cord channels  122 ,  124  are bounded by corresponding first and second hems  126 ,  128  of the pliant fabric at laterally opposed fabric ends. In alternative embodiments, left and right cord channels  122 ,  124  can be provided by hollow tubes attached along left and right body edges  116 ,  118  of mask body  104 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1D , left cord  106  extends from a left cord first end  130 , through left cord channel  122 , to a left cord second end  132 . Similarly, right cord  108  extends from a right cord first end  134 , through right cord channel  124 , to a right cord second end  136 . In the example shown, left and right cords  106 ,  108  are slidable within corresponding left and right cord channels  122 ,  124 . Alternatively, left and right cords  106 ,  108  may not be slidable within corresponding left and right cord channels  122 ,  124 . For example, left and right cords  106 ,  108  may be sewn to mask body  104  along corresponding left and right channels  122 ,  124 . Being able to slide the left and right cords  106 ,  108  within corresponding cord channels  122 ,  124  can provide users of these face masks  100  with greater adjustability compared to those where left and right cords  106 ,  108  cannot slide within corresponding left and right cord channels  122 ,  124 . Conversely, face masks  100  in which left and right cords  106 ,  108  cannot slide within corresponding left and right cord channels may simplify operation and/or improve durability compared to those where left and right cords  106 ,  108  can slide within corresponding left and right cord channels  122 ,  124 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , unitary retaining bead  110  has a cord constraining passage  146 . Cord constraining passage  146  extends completely through unitary retaining bead  110  (i.e. from one end to the other). Cord constraining passage  146  may have any physical configuration (e.g. shape) suitable to make frictional engagement with cords  106 ,  108  passing therethrough. In the example shown, cord constraining passage  146  is cylindrical. In alternative embodiments, the cross-section of cord constraining passage  146  may have another regular shape (e.g. rectangular, triangular, ovular, etc.) or irregular shape (e.g. cardiod shape, or clover shape). As used herein, the term “unitary” as it pertains to unitary retaining bead  110  means that unitary retaining bead  110  is free of moving parts, such as push buttons or springs. Unitary retaining bead  110  may be made of various types of materials, such as metal, glass, wood, ceramic, or plastic. Plastic beads may be advantageous due to their relatively low cost and weight. However, ceramic and metal beads may be more durable than plastic beads. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1D , left cord  106  has a left cord first segment  138  proximate the left cord first end  130  and a left cord second segment  140  proximate the left cord second end  132 . Similarly, right cord  108  has a right cord first segment  142  proximate the right cord first end  134  and a right cord second segment  144  proximate the right cord second end  136 . As shown, each of left cord first segment  138 , left cord second segment  140 , right cord first segment  142  and the right cord second segment  144  are fed through cord constraining passage  146  ( FIG. 2 ). 
     Cord constraining passage  146  ( FIG. 2 ) is sized to frictionally engage left cord first segment  138 , left cord second segment  140 , right cord first segment  142  and right cord second segment  144  such that retaining bead  110  is held in place along each of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144 . That is, unitary retaining bead  110  can maintain its position by virtue of the friction generated between cord constraining passage  146  and each of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144 . A user is able to slide retaining bead  110  (e.g. with their fingers) in either direction along cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  when that user applies a force sufficient to overcome the friction generated along cord constraining passage  146 . 
     A comparison of  FIGS. 3A and 3B  illustrates an example advancement of unitary retaining bead  110  along each of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  toward mask body  104 . Such advancement may be performed by a user in order to secure (i.e. tighten) mask body  104  against their face. For example,  FIGS. 1C and 1D  show unitary retaining bead  110  advanced until reaching the nape of the user&#39;s neck. In this position, unitary retaining bead  110  and left and right cords  106 ,  108  cooperate to hold mask body  104  firmly against the user&#39;s face. To loosen or remove mask body  104 , the user can slide unitary retaining bead  110  in the opposite direction (i.e. away from mask body  104  along cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144 ). 
     Face mask  100  offers a reduction in pressure and stress applied to the user by not requiring straps to be wrapped around the ears to support mask body  104  on the user&#39;s face. Using face mask  100  may reduce or eliminate the pressure, stress and/or sores commonly caused by face masks with elastic ear straps. 
     Various shapes of mask body  104  are possible. Referring to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the illustrated mask body  104  is concave so that additional room is provided around the user&#39;s nose and mouth. Mask body  104  has an enlarged nose region  148 , which contributes to this additional room around the user&#39;s nose. This room around the nose and mouth may make it easier for the user to breathe while wearing face mask  100 . The room around the nose and mouth afforded by the concave shape of mask body  104  may also increase user comfort by applying less stress on the user&#39;s face and, more specifically, the user&#39;s nose. 
       FIGS. 10A-10B  show a face mask  100  having a mask body  104 ′ with a different shape than mask body  104  of  FIGS. 3A-3B . Similar to mask body  104 , mask body  104 ′ has upper and lower body edges  112 ,  114  spaced apart from one another by laterally opposed left and right body edges  116 ,  118 . As shown, mask body  104 ′ has an extended lower body edge  114  to give mask body  104 ′ an elongated shape that covers the user&#39;s mouth and chin. By not wrapping around the user&#39;s chin, mask body  104 ′ may simplify breathing as expelled air from the user&#39;s mouth and nose can more readily pass around mask body  104 ′. Furthermore, the elongated shape of mask body  104 ′ may be well suited for user&#39;s with beards. Instead of pinching the user&#39;s bead along lower body edge  114 , the shape of mask body  104 ′ allows it to cover (i.e. drape) a portion or all of the user&#39;s beard. This may improve user comfort and/or aesthetic appeal while wearing face mask  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , unitary retaining bead  110  is shown trapped on cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  inboard of cord ends  130 ,  132 ,  134 ,  136 . This can prevent unitary retaining bead  110  from disengaging with any of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142  and  144  (e.g. due to over sliding retaining bead  110  in the direction away from mask body  104 ). There are a variety of suitable ways to trap retaining bead  110  on cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144 . For example, left cord first end  130 , left cord second end  132 , right cord first end  134  and right cord second end  136  can be tied into a single knot after being passed through cord constraining passage  146  ( FIG. 2 ). Being larger than cord constraining passage  146 , this knot can prevent left cord first end  130 , left cord second end  132 , right cord first end  134  and right cord second end  136  from being pulled back through cord constraining passage  146 . In other embodiments, mechanical fasteners (e.g. clamps, clips, etc.) may be used to tie left cord first end  130 , left cord second end  132 , right cord first end  134  and right cord second end  136  after they are passed through cord constraining passage  146 . Like the knot, the size of the mechanical fastener may prevent left cord first end  130 , left cord second end  132 , right cord first end  134  and right cord second end  136  from being pulled back through cord constraining passage  146 . 
     In at least one embodiment (not shown), left cord first end  130  and right cord first end  134  are fed through cord constraining passage  146  and tied into a first cord knot. Similarly, left cord second end  132  and right cord second end  136  are fed through cord constraining passage  146  and tied into a second cord knot. Tying left cord first end  130  and right cord first end  134  separately from left cord second end  132  and right cord second end  136  may enhance mask adjustability. In such a configuration, left cord first segment  138  and right cord first segment  142  can be slid together through cord constraining passage  146  independently of left cord second segment  140  and right cord second segment  144 . This can allow the user to better customize the upper and lower fit of mask body  104  over their face. For example, the user may prefer mask body  104  held tighter against their face along upper body edge  112  than lower body edge  114 . 
     In the example shown, after being fed through cord constraining passage  146 , left cord first and second ends  130 ,  132  are tied through a left cord knot  150 , and right cord first and second ends  134 ,  136  are tied through a right cord knot  152 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , cord knots  150 ,  152  are preferably tied so that only a short tail is left. By virtue of its size relative to cord constraining passage  146 , left cord knot  150  obstructs removal of retaining bead  110  from left cord first and second ends  130 ,  132 . Similarly, the size of right cord knot  152  obstructs removal of retaining bead  110  from right cord first and second ends  134 ,  136 . In some embodiments, left and right cord knots  150  and  152  are fused to make the knots  150 ,  152  permanent and thereby impede unknotting and/or fraying. This may increase the lifespan of face mask  100 . For example, where polyester cords are used, each cord knot  150 ,  152  may be fused by holding it over a heat source, such as a flame or resistive heating element. The polyester melts and resolidifies as it cools, fusing the knots. 
     Tying left cord first and second ends  130 ,  132  separately from right cord first and second ends  134 ,  136  as shown may provide benefits from a mask adjustability standpoint. In this configuration, left cord first and second segments  138 ,  140  can be slid together through cord constraining passage  146  independently of right cord first and second segments  142 ,  144 . This can allow the user to independently adjust the fit of mask body  104  on opposite sides of their face. For example, a user with a hearing aid on their left ear may require a looser mask fit on that side of their face. 
     As described above, cord constraining passage  146  ( FIG. 2 ) is sized to frictionally engage left cord first segment  138 , left cord second segment  140 , right cord first segment  142  and right cord second segment  144 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , a portion of each cord segment  138 ,  140 ,  142  and  144  that is within the cord constraining passage  146  is compressed by unitary retaining bead  110 . 
     Each of left cord first segment  138 , left cord second segment  140 , right cord first segment  142  and right cord second segment  144  have an “uncompressed” cord cross-sectional area (i.e. a cross-sectional area when not compressed by unitary retaining bead  110 ). Retaining bead  110  compresses cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142  and  144  such that the sum of the cross-sectional areas of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  within the cord constraining passage  146  is reduced by at least 25% (e.g. reduced by 25% to 75%). This degree of compression of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 ,  144  within cord constraining passage  146  can generate the friction necessary to maintain the position of retaining bead  110  along cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 ,  144 . At the same time, this degree of compression of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 ,  144  within cord constraining passage  146  still allows a user to slide retaining bead  110  along cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 ,  144  through the application of a reasonable amount of force. 
     In some embodiments, the sum of the cord cross-sectional areas of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  may be about 1.8 to 2.8 times greater than a cross-sectional area of cord constraining passage  146 . More preferably, the sum of the cord cross-sectional areas of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  may be about 2.0 to 2.5 times greater than a cross-sectional area of cord constraining passage  146 . As an example, each cord segment  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  may have a cord cross-sectional area of about 7 mm 2 . Accordingly, the sum of the cross-sectional areas is about 28 mm 2  (7 mm 2 +7 mm 2 +7 mm 2 +7 mm 2 ). Cord constraining passage  146  may have a cross-sectional area of about 12.5 mm 2 . In this example, the sum of the cord cross-sectional areas of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  is about  2 . 2  times greater than a cross-sectional area of cord constraining passage  146  (28 mm 2 ÷12.5 mm 2 ). 
     Left and right cords  106 ,  108  may be made of various types of materials. For example, left and right cords  106 ,  108  may comprise polyester, nylon, polypropylene, aramid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, left and right cords  106 ,  108  may be one of a braided polyester cord, a braided nylon cord, a braided polypropylene cord, and a braded aramid cord. In other embodiments, left and right cords  106 ,  108  may be one of a twisted polyester cord, a twisted nylon cord, a twisted polypropylene cord, and a twisted aramid cord. Braided cord may provide one or more advantages over twisted cord. For example, braided cord is generally stronger, smoother to the touch, more durable, less stretchable than twisted cord. However, twisted cord is typically less expensive than braided cord. Lower costs may be an important consideration for establishments (e.g. retail, dining, medical, or government service) who may purchase hundreds or thousands of non-medical face mask  100  for use by their patrons. 
     Left and right cords  106 ,  108  may have a length that allows face mask  100  to be loosened and worn around the neck ( FIG. 6 ). For example, left and right cords  106 ,  108  may be between 70 and 100 cm in length. More preferably, left and right cords  106 ,  108  are between 80 and 90 cm in length. In the example shown, left and right cords  106 ,  108  have the same cord length. Left and right cords  106 ,  108  of similar length may simplify use and/or manufacturing of face mask  100 . Alternatively, left and right cords  106 ,  108  may have different cord lengths. For example, left cord  106  may have a cord length of 85 cm and right cord  108  may have a cord length of 90 cm. 
     Left and right cords  106 ,  108  may have an elasticity of less than 20%. More preferably, left and right cords  106 ,  108  have an elasticity less than 10%. In this context, elasticity is defined as: 
     
       
         
           
             
               
                 
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     Operation of face mask  100  can be simplified through the use of left and rights cords  106 ,  108  that are relatively inelastic (i.e. have an elasticity below 20%). If left and right cords  106 ,  108  were easily stretched, sliding retaining bead  110  along cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  would be cumbersome (i.e. cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 ,  144  would bunch up adjacent retaining bead  110 ). Further, cord durability is generally inversely correlated with increasing cord elasticity. That is, cords with a lower elasticity tend to last longer than cord with a higher elasticity. Accordingly, using left and right cords  106 ,  108  that are relatively inelastic can increase the lifespan of face mask  100 . Still, in alternative embodiments, cords  106 ,  108  may have an elasticity greater than 20%. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , face mask  100  can be conveniently worn around the neck of user  102  at times when contagion protection is not needed (e.g. when alone outdoors in open air). In these cases, the user  102  can loosen mask body  104  from their face by sliding retaining bead  110  away from their head and then lower or drop mask body  104  to their chest. When protection is again needed, the user  102  can raise mask body  104  up to their face and advance retaining bead  110  toward their head until mask body  104  is sufficiently secure. Being able to let mask body  104  hang from the neck can be particularly advantageous for users who frequently transition between situations where contagion protection is needed and not needed. It may also act to reduce the frequency with which face mask  100  is misplaced or lost since it can be easily kept around the user&#39;s neck when not in use (i.e. instead of being unintentionally forgotten somewhere). 
       FIGS. 7A-7C  illustrate different exemplary ways in which face mask  100  can be worn.  FIG. 7A  shows user  102  with retaining bead  110  in a raised position against the back of her head (e.g. above hair bun  154 ).  FIG. 7B  shows user  102  with retaining bead  110  positioned in an intermediate position against the back of her head (e.g. just below hair bun  154 ).  FIG. 7C  shows user  102  with retaining bead  110  in a lowered position against the back of her head. In each of these positions, left and right cords  106 ,  108  do not wrap around the user&#39;s ears for support. As a result, face mask  100  does not apply any pressure to the back of the user&#39;s ears when it is worn. 
     As described above, the friction generated between cord constraining passage  146  and cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142 , and  144  acts to retain the position of retaining bead  110 . It is the position of the retaining bead  110  along each of cord segments  138 ,  140 ,  142  and  144  that dictates the tightness/looseness of the face mask  100 . With the generated friction holding the retaining bead  110  in a static position, little additional support is needed from the user&#39;s head to keep mask body  104  held firmly against the user&#39;s face. As a result, face mask  100  can provide the user with a comfortable mask wearing experience. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1B , mask body  104  includes a laterally extending nose bar channel  168  located along upper mask body edge  112 . It may be convenient to centrally locate nose bar channel  168  along upper mask body edge  112  (e.g. as shown); however, this does not need to be the case. For example, nose bar channel  168  can be offset toward either one of left or right body edges  116 ,  118 . Nose bar channel  168  is sized so that a bendable nose bar is insertable therein. Bendable nose bars allow the user to adjust the fit of upper body edge  112  over their nose according to their own preferences. For example, a user may bend nose bar  174  to conform to the shape of their nose to close gaps between the body upper edge  112  and the user&#39;s face. In turn, this may mitigate the escape of exhaled air through such gaps, reduce the spread of contagions in such exhaled air, and prevent users&#39; glasses from fogging due to contact with the exhaled air. 
     Nose bar channel  168  may be formed in any manner that allows channel  168  to retain a nose bar  174  ( FIG. 8 ). For example, nose bar channel  168  may be formed by the pliant fabric of mask body  104 . In the example shown, adjacent layers of pliant fabric are sewn together to create nose bar channel  168 . Alternatively, nose bar channel  168  may be formed by joining (e.g. sewing) an additional piece of fabric to the inner surface of mask body  104  adjacent body upper edge  112  with one or more edges of the appended piece of fabric left detached to form a bar insertion opening. 
     In the example shown, nose bar channel  168  has a closed end  170  and an opposed open end  172  (also referred to as nose bar insertion opening  172 ). A bendable nose bar, such as bendable and resilient nose bar  174  shown in  FIG. 8 , can be inserted into nose bar channel  168  through open end  172 . The nose bar can also be removed from open end  172 , e.g. to substitute in a new nose bar or to remove the nose bar all together. In one embodiment, a kit is provided that includes face mask  100  and at least two nose bars  174  ( FIG. 8 ). For example, 2 to 10 nose bars  174  may be included in the kit. Accordingly, the kit provides the user with at least one replacement nose bar  174 . This could be particularly beneficial in situations where the primary nose bar  174  is misplaced, damaged and/or looses its resiliency through repeated use. 
     Closed end  170  of nose bar channel  168  can be sealed in any suitable manner. In the example shown, closed end  170  of nose bar channel  168  is stitched closed. In some embodiments, the position of closed end  170  is associated with the length of the nose bar so that when the nose bar is fully inserted into the nose bar channel  168 , the nose bar is centrally aligned with upper body edge  112 . In alternative embodiments, end  170  of nose bar channel  168  is also open so that nose bar  174  may be inserted through either end  170 ,  172 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , left cord channel  122  extends from a left channel upper exit  156  to a left channel lower exit  158 . Advancing retaining bead  110  toward mask body  104  (in direction  160 ) reduces a portion  162  of left cord  106  that extends from retaining bead  110  to each of left channel upper and lower exits  156 ,  158  (i.e. total length of portion  162  is reduced). 
     For greater clarity, portion  162  of left cord  106  is shaded in  FIG. 9  to distinguish it from the rest of left cord  106 . Making portion  162  of left cord  106  smaller has a mask tightening effect. On the other hand, making portion  162  of left cord  106  larger (i.e. by sliding retaining bead  110  in direction  164 ) has a mask loosening effect. This applies mutatis mutandis to right cord  108 , right cord channel  124  and retaining bead  110 . 
     Referring still to  FIG. 9 , left cord channel  122  has a left cord channel length  166  (i.e. from left channel upper exit  156  to left channel lower exit  158 ). Left cord  106  has a left cord length (i.e. from left cord first end  130  to left cord second end  132 ). In some embodiments, a ratio of the left cord length to the left cord channel length is between 18 to 1 and 8 to 1. More preferably, the ratio of the left cord length to the left cord channel length is between 15 to 1 and 10 to 1. As an example, the left cord length may be 86 cm and the left cord channel length may be 6 cm, making the ratio about 14.3 to 1. Having a ratio of the left cord length to the left cord channel length within the ranges above can ensure face mask  100  fits comfortably over the user&#39;s head while being put on. Alternatively, or in addition, a ratio within these ranges can also provide face mask  100  with sufficient slack to be worn around the user&#39;s neck as shown in  FIG. 6 . The above description applies mutatis mutandis to right cord  108  and right cord channel  124 . 
     While the above description provides examples of the embodiments, it will be appreciated that some features and/or functions of the described embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. Accordingly, what has been described above has been intended to be illustrative of the invention and non-limiting and it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments and examples but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole. 
     Items 
     Item 1: A non-medical face mask comprising: 
     a mask body having upper and lower body edges spaced apart from one another by laterally opposed left and right body edges, the mask body having a left cord channel along the left body edge and a right cord channel along the right body edge; 
     a left cord extending from a left cord first end through the left cord channel to a left cord second end, the left cord being slidable within the left cord channel, the left cord having a left cord first segment proximate the left cord first end and a left cord second segment proximate the left cord second end; 
     a right cord extending from a right cord first end through the right cord channel to a right cord second end, the right cord being slidable within the right cord channel, the right cord having a right cord first segment proximate the right cord first end and a left cord second segment proximate the right cord second end; and 
     a unitary retaining bead having a cord constraining passage, each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment passing through the cord constraining passage, the cord constraining passage being sized to frictionally engage the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment such that the unitary retaining bead is held in place along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment, the unitary retaining bead being slidable along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment to advance the unitary retaining bead toward the mask body. 
     Item 2: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     a portion of each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment that is within the cord constraining passage is compressed by the unitary retaining bead. 
     Item 3: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment have a cord cross-sectional area, a sum of the cord cross-sectional areas of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment being about 2 to 2.5 times greater than a cross-sectional area of the cord constraining passage. 
     Item 4: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment have a cord cross-sectional area, and the unitary retaining bead reduces a sum of the cord cross-sectional areas of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment within the cord constraining passage by at least 25%. 
     Item 5: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the unitary retaining bead is trapped on each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment. 
     Item 6: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord first and second ends are tied, and the right cord first and second ends are tied. 
     Item 7: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord first end and the right cord first end are tied, and the left cord second end and the right cord second end are tied. 
     Item 8: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord first and second segments are together slidable through the cord constraining passage independently of the right cord first and second segments. 
     Item 9: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord first segment and the right cord first segment are together slidable through the cord constraining passage independently of the left cord second segment and the right cord second segment. 
     Item 10: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord first and second ends are tied through a left cord knot, and the right cord first and second ends are tied through a right cord knot, the left cord knot obstructing removal of the unitary retaining bead from the left cord first and second ends, and the right cord knot obstructing removal of the unitary retaining bead from the right cord first and second ends. 
     Item 11: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord first end and the right cord first end are tied through a first cord knot, and the left cord second end and the right cord second end are tied through a second cord knot, the first cord knot obstructing removal of the unitary retaining bead from the left cord first end and the right cord first end, and the second cord knot obstructing removal of the unitary retaining bead from the left cord second end and the right cord second end. 
     Item 12: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left and right cord knots are fused to impede unknotting. 
     Item 13: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the first and second cord knots are fused to impede unknotting. 
     Item 14: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left and right cords have an elasticity of less than 10%. 
     Item 15: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left and right cords comprise one of braided polyester, braided nylon, braided polypropylene, and braided aramid. 
     Item 16: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left and right cords comprise one of polyester, nylon, polypropylene, and aramid. 
     Item 17: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord channel extends from a left channel upper exit to a left channel lower exit, the right cord channel extends from a right channel upper exit to a right channel lower exit, and advancing the unitary retaining bead toward the mask body reduces
         i) a portion of the left cord that extends from the unitary retaining bead to each of the left channel upper and lower exits, and   ii) a portion of the right cord that extends from the unitary retaining bead to each of the right channel upper and lower exits.
 
Item 18: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein:
       

     the left cord has a left cord length, the right cord has a right cord length, the left cord channel has a left cord channel length, the right cord channel has a right cord channel length, a ratio of the left cord length to the left cord channel length is between 15 to 1 and 10 to 1, and a ratio of the right cord length to the right cord channel length is between 15 to 1 and 10 to 1. 
     Item 19: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the mask body comprises at least one layer of pliant fabric having laterally opposed left and right fabric ends, and lengths of the left and right cord channels are bounded at least in part by respective hems of the left and right fabric ends. 
     Item 20: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein 
     the mask body comprises a laterally extending nose bar channel located along the upper mask body edge, the nose bar channel having a bendable nose bar insertion opening. 
     Item 21: A kit comprising: 
     the non-medical face mask of any preceding item; and 
     at least two bendable nose bars. 
     Item 22: A non-medical face mask comprising: 
     a mask body having upper and lower body edges spaced apart from one another by laterally opposed left and right body edges, the mask body having a left cord channel along the left body edge and a right cord channel along the right body edge; 
     a left cord extending from a left cord first end through the left cord channel to a left cord second end, the left cord having a left cord first segment proximate the left cord first end and a left cord second segment proximate the left cord second end; 
     a right cord extending from a right cord first end through the right cord channel to a right cord second end, the right cord having a right cord first segment proximate the right cord first end and a right cord second segment proximate the right cord second end; and 
     a unitary retaining bead having a cord constraining passage, each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment passing through the cord constraining passage, the cord constraining passage being sized to frictionally engage the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment such that the unitary retaining bead is held in place along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment, the unitary retaining bead being slidable along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment to advance the unitary retaining bead toward the mask body, 
     wherein the left cord first and second ends are tied through a left cord knot, and the right cord first and second ends are tied through a right cord knot, the left cord knot obstructing removal of the unitary retaining bead from the left cord first and second ends, and the right cord knot obstructing removal of the unitary retaining bead from the right cord first and second ends. 
     Item 23: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord is slidable within the left cord channel and the right cord is slidable within the right cord channel. 
     Item 24: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     a portion of each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment that is within the cord constraining passage is compressed by the unitary retaining bead. 
     Item 25: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment have a cord cross-sectional area, a sum of the cord cross-sectional areas of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment being about 2 to 2.5 times greater than a cross-sectional area of the cord constraining passage. 
     Item 26: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment have a cord cross-sectional area, and the unitary retaining bead reduces a sum of the cord cross-sectional areas of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment within the cord constraining passage by at least 25%. 
     Item 27: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left and right cords have an elasticity of less than 10%. 
     Item 28: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left and right cords comprise one of braided polyester, braided nylon, braided polypropylene, and braided aramid. 
     Item 29: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     each of the left and right cords comprise one of polyester, nylon, polypropylene, and aramid. 
     Item 30: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the left cord channel extends from a left channel upper exit to a left channel lower exit, the right cord channel extends from a right channel upper exit to a right channel lower exit, and advancing the unitary retaining bead toward the mask body reduces
         i) a portion of the left cord that extends from the unitary retaining bead to each of the left channel upper and lower exits, and   ii) a portion of the right cord that extends from the unitary retaining bead to each of the right channel upper and lower exits.
 
Item 31: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein:
       

     the left cord has a left cord length, the right cord has a right cord length, the left cord channel has a left cord channel length, the right cord channel has a right cord channel length, a ratio of the left cord length to the left cord channel length is between 15 to 1 and 10 to 1, and a ratio of the right cord length to the right cord channel length is between 15 to 1 and 10 to 1. 
     Item 32: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     the mask body comprises at least one layer of pliant fabric having laterally opposed left and right fabric ends, and lengths of the left and right cord channels are bounded at least in part by respective hems of the left and right fabric ends. 
     Item 33: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein the mask body comprises a laterally extending nose bar channel centrally located along the upper mask body edge, the nose bar channel having a bendable nose bar insertion opening.
 
Item 34: A kit comprising:
 
     the non-medical face mask of any preceding item; and 
     at least two bendable nose bars. 
     Item 35: A non-medical face mask comprising: 
     a mask body having upper and lower body edges spaced apart from one another by laterally opposed left and right body edges; 
     a left cord extending from a left cord first end to a left cord second end, the left cord having a connection to the left body edge between the left cord first and second ends, the left cord having a left cord first segment proximate the left cord first end and a left cord second segment proximate the left cord second end; 
     a right cord extending from a right cord first end to a right cord second end, the right cord having a connection to the right body edge between the right cord first and second ends, the right cord having a right cord first segment proximate the right cord first end and a right cord second segment proximate the right cord second end; and 
     a unitary retaining bead having a cord constraining passage, each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment passing through the cord constraining passage, the cord constraining passage being sized to frictionally engage the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment such that the unitary retaining bead is held in place along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment, the unitary retaining bead being slidable along each of the left cord first segment, the left cord second segment, the right cord first segment and the right cord second segment to advance the unitary retaining bead toward the mask body, 
     wherein the left cord first and second ends are tied through a left cord knot, and the right cord first and second ends are tied through a right cord knot, the left cord knot obstructing removal of the unitary retaining bead from the left cord first and second ends, and the right cord knot obstructing removal of the unitary retaining bead from the right cord first and second ends. 
     Item 36: The non-medical face mask of any preceding item, wherein: 
     wherein the mask body has a left cord channel and a right cord channel, the connection of the left cord comprises the left cord extending through the left cord channel, and the connection of the right cord comprises the right cord extending through the right cord channel.