Patent Description:
Filtering type face masks, configured to filter air from particles suspended therein, are known to be provided with a concave portion shaped to embrace the portion of the user's face where the nose and mouth are located. These face masks comprise a filtering septum adapted to filter the air and positioned in the concave portion. Alternatively, the entire concave portion is made of a filter material such as a fabric or a non-woven fabric. These face masks are held in place on the user's face by elastic bands that surround the user's nape of the neck or ears to pull the concave portion in contact with the user's face.

A known problem with these filtering face masks is that the elastic band tends to stretch during use, becoming less effective in holding the concave portion pressed to the nose and mouth. In addition, elastic bands tend to mark the area of the head they contact, particularly in the area at the back of the ears.

<CIT> proposes as solution to put an adhesive on the periphery of the face mask, in order to glue the mask on the face of the user. <CIT> discloses a personal protective equipment according to the preamble of claim <NUM>.

<CIT> proposes as solution an earpiece pivotally connected to the facemask.

An object of the present invention is to provide a solution alternative and more efficient than the prior art solutions, within the context of a simple and rational solution and at a contained cost.

Such object is achieved by the features of the invention indicated in the independent claim. The dependent claims outline preferred and/or particularly advantageous aspects of the invention.

The invention makes available a personal protective equipment comprising:.

This solution makes a personal protective equipment available in which the concave portion of the face mask remains in place on the user's face in a particularly effective way even after prolonged use.

This personal protective equipment is also comfortable to put on and take off in very short times and avoids irritations and/or marks left by the elastic bands of known face masks. According to one aspect of the invention, the quick coupling device may be of the magnetic type or of the quick release mechanical type.

In this way, a quick coupling device is made available that allows the face mask to be put on or taken off quickly and easily, e.g. with just one hand of the user, without the need to operate any mechanism and/or without the need for special tools.

One aspect of the invention further provides that the quick coupling device may be of a magnetic type and one between the first portion and the second portion may comprise a magnet.

In this way, a functional quick coupling device is made available for a stable and secure connection.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the adhesive tape may comprise an inner face at least partially covered with an adhesive substance, i.e. a film of an adhesive substance, and an opposite outer face.

Thanks to this solution, an effective wearable element is made available, which is easy to manufacture and cost effective.

An aspect of the invention further provides that the outer face of the adhesive tape may comprise a housing pocket inside which the second portion of the quick coupling device is housed.

In this way, a wearable element is made available which allows to ensure a practical and immediate connection between the first portion and the second portion of the quick coupling device, and thus a simple coupling of the face mask to the wearable element.

According to one aspect of the invention, the first portion of the quick coupling device may be irremovably fixed to the face mask.

In particular, one aspect of the invention provides that the first portion of the quick coupling device may be sewn or embedded or glued or incorporated in the material that the face mask is made of.

According to another aspect of the invention, the face mask may comprise a pair of elastic bands arranged at the ends and wherein the first portion is irremovably fixed to said elastic bands.

Further features and advantages of the invention will be more apparent after reading the following description provided by way of non-limiting example, with the aid of the accompanying drawings.

With particular reference to these figures, <NUM>,<NUM>' globally indicates a personal protective equipment, that is a piece of equipment adapted to be worn by a user aimed at protecting from (or limiting the probability of breathing) particles suspended in the air. In particular, this personal protective equipment is substantially a kit consisting of a filtering type face mask and a support for said face mask, as will be better illustrated below.

The personal protective equipment <NUM>,<NUM>' comprises a filtering face mask <NUM> adapted to embrace a portion of the user's face so as to inscribe his mouth and nose. The face mask <NUM> may for example be one between a surgical mask, an FFP2 mask, an FFP3 mask, an N95 mask, or an N99 mask, or any mask configured to filter the air in an environment. For example, the face mask <NUM> may be deformable, deformable meaning that it can be bent without compromising the structural integrity thereof.

The face mask <NUM>, in any case, comprises a concave portion <NUM>, with concavity facing the user's face and circumscribing the user's mouth and nose.

The concave portion <NUM> has a concave inner face <NUM> facing the nose and the mouth of the user and an opposite convex outer face <NUM> facing the external environment.

For example, the concave portion <NUM> comprises a perimeter edge <NUM> closed substantially into a ring, for example shaped, which is adapted to come into contact at least partially with the user's face.

In practice, the perimeter edge <NUM> is adapted to rest on the user's nose and cheeks, and protrude beyond the user's chin.

The concave portion <NUM>, when the perimeter edge <NUM> rests on the user's face, delimits a (substantially) closed volume communicating with the user's mouth and nose.

The concave portion <NUM> is a shaped body having a thin thickness (less than <NUM>), and is provided with a material having, for example, reduced tensile elasticity, for example in a fabric and/or a non-woven fabric, preferably a multi-layered material in a fabric and/or a non-woven fabric.

The concave portion <NUM>, for example as in the case of surgical or FFP2 masks or in any case all those not provided with a valve to regulate the passage of air between the external environment and the environment created between the concave portion and the user's face, is made entirely of a multi-layered filtering material configured to filter the air from particles suspended therein.

One layer the multi-layered material of the concave portion <NUM> may be provided with is, for example, made of a hydrophobic material.

In addition to or as an alternative to the multi-layered material of the concave portion <NUM> described above, the face mask <NUM> may comprise a filtering septum housed in the concave portion and adapted to filter air from particles suspended therein. In such a case, the concave portion <NUM> is not filtering, but substantially hermetic.

The filtering septum (not shown in the Figure) is for example grafted, preferably rigidly fixed without residual degrees of freedom, at a through opening (not shown) made in the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>, preferably but not limitedly at a central area of the concave portion <NUM>.

In particular, the through opening in which the filtering septum is fixed may be made at the concave portion <NUM> so as to cross it in a substantially orthogonal direction.

The face mask <NUM> comprises, for example, a conformable nose pad adapted to give adherence to the face mask at the user's nose.

Such a conformable nose pad comprises a nasal bar <NUM> adapted to adapt to the user's nose in order to allow adherence of the perimeter edge <NUM> of the concave portion <NUM> at the user's nose.

The nasal bar <NUM> is connected to the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>, for example near the perimeter edge <NUM>, preferably at an upper portion of the convex outer face <NUM> of the concave portion <NUM> adapted to rest on the user's nose.

Preferably, the nasal bar <NUM> is rigidly fixed at the upper portion of the convex outer face <NUM> of the concave portion <NUM>, for example by gluing or other known fixing techniques. For example, the nasal bar <NUM> is made of a ductile material that can be manually deformed by the user.

The conformable nose pad may also comprise a cushion (not shown in the Figure) adapted to provide additional comfort when resting the face mask <NUM> at the user's nose.

The face mask <NUM> further comprises retaining means adapted to exert a traction action of the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask towards the face of the user.

Such retaining means comprise a plurality of straps or lanyards <NUM>, for example two in number, surrounding the nape of the neck or ears of the user with the function of holding at least part of the perimeter edge <NUM> of the concave portion <NUM> in contact with the user's face.

Each strap or lanyard <NUM> may be made of a single elastic type material, for example an interwoven fabric comprising elastic fibres.

Each strap or lanyard is preferably between <NUM> and <NUM> long and has a circular or rectangular cross-section. If the section is circular, the diameter of the section is less than <NUM>-<NUM>, if the section is rectangular, the minimum thickness of the section is less than <NUM>-<NUM>.

In particular, said straps <NUM> are adapted to be fixed by respective fixing means <NUM> to the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>, preferably at the perimeter edge <NUM>.

In the example shown in <FIG>, the fixing means <NUM> are a plurality, preferably two pairs of fixing means, for example symmetrically arranged with respect to the sagittal mid-plane of the face mask.

The fixing means <NUM> can be constituted by heat sealing which rigidly joins one end of the strap <NUM> to the concave portion <NUM>.

Alternatively, the fixing means may comprise a hole made at a part of the perimeter edge <NUM>, adapted to be engaged by a respective end of a strap <NUM>.

As a further alternative, each respective end of a strap <NUM> is adapted to engage the respective hole <NUM> from the outside and to be locked therein, for example by gluing, at the concave inner face <NUM> of the concave portion <NUM> (of the face mask <NUM>).

Furthermore, it is not excluded that the fixing means <NUM> may be defined by hooks, buttons, seams and/or for example by fins made, for example, as a single body with the perimeter edge <NUM> of the concave portion <NUM>, on which the straps <NUM> may be rigidly fixed by gluing. The personal protective equipment <NUM>,<NUM>' further comprises a support apparatus <NUM>,<NUM>' for the face mask <NUM> adapted to exert a pulling action of the face mask towards the face of the user, or adapted to hold the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM> in place on the user's face.

In practice, the support apparatus <NUM>,<NUM>' can be used as an alternative to the retaining means of the face mask described above.

In particular, the personal protective equipment <NUM>,<NUM>' comprises a pair of identical support apparatuses <NUM>,<NUM>', adapted to exert a pulling action of the face mask <NUM> towards the face of the user in a symmetrical manner with respect to the sagittal mid-plane of the face mask itself.

Each support apparatus <NUM>,<NUM>' comprises a wearable element, meaning by wearable element an element that can be directly fixed to the user's body or to a further element worn by the user.

The wearable element, in an embodiment not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, may for example comprise, i.e. consists of, a pair of circumaural temples <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>.

Each of said circumaural temples <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> is shaped to be coupled externally to an ear of the user, externally surrounding the auricle so as to position itself between the skull and the auricle, resting above the ear.

Preferably, the circumaural temple <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> is formed by a monolithic body preferably made of a substantially rigid material, i.e. one that does not deform under the normal working loads to which it is subjected.

For example, the material of the circumaural temple <NUM> has a percentage value of elongation at break of less than <NUM>%, according to the UNI EN ISO <NUM> standard. Preferably, the material of the temple body has a percentage value of elongation at break of less than <NUM>%, according to the UNI EN ISO <NUM> standard.

In a first variant of the circumaural temple <NUM>, and first embodiment of the wearable element not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, it comprises for example a C-shaped, or curved portion, which directly contacts an outer portion of the auricle to surround it at the rear, a first supporting end <NUM>, and a second coupling end <NUM> between which the C-shaped portion <NUM> is interposed.

At least the C-formed portion <NUM> is elongated, i.e., less thick than long, e.g., the thickness is greater than <NUM> along the entire longitudinal extent of the C-formed portion.

The first supporting end <NUM> of the circumaural temple <NUM> has for example greater radial dimensions than the radial dimensions of the C-shaped portion <NUM> thereof, in order to allow a stable support of the circumaural temple <NUM> on the user's ear.

In use, the first supporting end <NUM> is proximal to an upper portion of the auricle, i.e. to the tragus of the user's ear.

The second coupling end <NUM> of the circumaural temple protrudes from the C-shaped portion <NUM> on the opposite side with respect to the first supporting end <NUM>.

In particular, the second coupling end <NUM> protrudes towards the face of the user, or towards the face mask <NUM> (when worn), passing, for example, in use, under the user's ear lobe.

In a second variant of the circumaural temple <NUM> , and second embodiment of the wearable element not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, illustrated of <FIG>, it comprises a C-shaped, i.e. curved, portion which directly contacts an outer portion of the auricle to surround it at the rear, a first coupling end <NUM>, and a second supporting end <NUM> between which the C-shaped portion <NUM> is interposed, which C-shaped portion is substantially similar to the C-shaped portion of the first embodiment of the wearable element. At least the C-formed portion <NUM> is elongated, i.e., less thick than long, e.g., the thickness is greater than <NUM> along the entire longitudinal extent of the C-formed portion.

The second supporting end <NUM> of the circumaural temple <NUM> has for example greater radial dimensions than the radial dimensions of the C-shaped portion <NUM> thereof, in order to allow a stable support of the circumaural temple <NUM> on the user's ear. Preferably this portion is also flattened.

The second supporting end <NUM> protrudes from the C-shaped portion <NUM> passing, for example, in use, below the user's earlobe.

The first coupling end <NUM> of the circumaural temple <NUM> protrudes from the C-shaped portion <NUM> towards the second supporting end <NUM>, so that in use the first coupling end <NUM> protrudes from an upper portion of the auricle, i.e. to the tragus of the user's ear, downwards.

In a third variant of the circumaural temple <NUM>, and third embodiment of the wearable element not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, illustrated of <FIG>, the circumaural temple <NUM> is shaped like the circumaural temple <NUM> of the second variant, with the exception of the first coupling end, which will be explained right below.

The circumaural temple <NUM> thus comprises a C-shaped, i.e. curved, portion, which directly contacts an outer portion of the auricle to surround it at the rear, a first coupling end <NUM>, and a second support end <NUM> between which it is interposed the C-shaped portion <NUM>.

In particular, the first coupling end <NUM>, in this third embodiment of the wearable element, comprises a first body <NUM> and a second body <NUM> hinged together with respect to a hinge axis.

For example, such a hinge axis is horizontal in use.

The first body <NUM> of the first coupling end <NUM> of the circumaural temple <NUM> is substantially similar to the first coupling end <NUM> of the circumaural temple <NUM>.

Thus, the first body <NUM> protrudes from the C-shaped portion <NUM> towards the second supporting end <NUM>, so that in use the first body <NUM> of the first coupling end <NUM> protrudes from an upper portion of the auricle, i.e. to the tragus of the user's ear, downwards.

The first body <NUM> of the first coupling end <NUM> may be provided with a through hole <NUM>, for example a threaded through hole, the axis of which defines the hinge axis of the first coupling end <NUM>.

The second body <NUM> of the first coupling end <NUM> is adapted to be hinged to the first body <NUM>, for example so as to protrude, in use, below the first body <NUM>.

Said second body <NUM> may also be provided with a through hole <NUM>, for example a threaded hole.

In said third embodiment, the wearable element <NUM> also comprises threaded connection means, for example a screw <NUM>, adapted to allow the coupling of the first body <NUM> to the second body <NUM>, at the respective through holes <NUM>, <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown of <FIG>, the second body <NUM> of the first coupling end <NUM> is cylindrical in shape and is provided with an elongated portion adapted to be hinged to the first body <NUM>.

It is not excluded that the second body <NUM> may be of any adapted shape to allow a connection with the first body <NUM> of the first coupling end <NUM>.

Furthermore, it is not excluded that the first body <NUM> and the second body <NUM> may be coupled by means of a spherical joint or any other connection means allowing at least one degree of rotational freedom of the second body <NUM> with respect to the first body <NUM>. In a fourth embodiment of the invention not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, illustrated in <FIG>, the wearable element <NUM> is shaped to be fixed to the temple of a pair of eyeglasses.

Preferably, two wearable elements <NUM> are provided which are shaped so as to be crossed each by a respective temple of a pair of eyeglasses, protruding outwards in a direction away therefrom.

Each wearable element is, for example, substantially L-shaped and comprises a first longitudinal coupling end <NUM>, an intermediate portion <NUM>, and a second longitudinal coupling end <NUM>.

The first coupling end <NUM> of the wearable element <NUM> comprises a through hole <NUM> adapted to be crossed by the eyeglass temple.

This through hole <NUM> is shaped so as to have a diameter which may be (at least slightly) less than the diameter (or the overall radial dimension) of the temple of a pair of eyeglasses, in order to permit a stable fixing by interference of the wearable element <NUM> to said temple.

Preferably the through hole <NUM> has a diameter comprised between <NUM> and <NUM>.

The wearable element <NUM>, at the through hole <NUM>, may be at least partially made of a flexible material, i.e., capable of deforming to allow the coupling to the eyeglass temple, for example such material may be rubber.

At the through hole <NUM>, the wearable element <NUM> may also have a high degree of roughness in order to improve stability on the temple.

Furthermore, at least part of the wearable element <NUM> is made of a substantially rigid material, i.e. not deformable under the loads to which it is subjected in use, which may be covered by the portion of a flexible material (rubber).

The intermediate portion <NUM> of the wearable element <NUM> extends from the first coupling end <NUM> in a transverse direction, for example perpendicular, to a central axis of the through hole <NUM>.

The second coupling end <NUM> of the wearable element <NUM> protrudes transversely, e.g. squared, to the intermediate portion <NUM> in the direction of approach to the user's face.

In particular, the second coupling end <NUM> protrudes towards the user's face, i.e. towards the face mask <NUM> (when worn), along a direction substantially parallel to a central axis of the through hole <NUM>.

In use, the second end <NUM> passes below the eyeglass temple (when worn) to which the wearable element <NUM> is fixed.

In a fifth embodiment not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, the wearable element may also comprise, i.e. consist of, a clothing accessory configured to be removably fixable to a garment, preferably in the form of a pin <NUM>.

For example, in the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pin <NUM> fixed to the breast pocket of a jacket is shown by way of example.

It cannot be ruled out that such a pin <NUM> could be fixed to any garment, e.g. made of fabric.

In particular, the pin <NUM> may comprise a portion in a magnetic material and/or a portion in a ferromagnetic material.

For example, the pin <NUM> comprises a slab-shaped body <NUM> (of thin thickness), preferably provided with a flat face painted and/or with raised lettering, in particular of circular shape and reduced diameter.

Alternatively, the pin <NUM> may comprise a body of any shape and size.

In detail, the slab-like body <NUM> of the pin <NUM> may consist of a magnetic element <NUM>.

It is not excluded, alternatively or additionally, that the slab-shaped body <NUM> of the pin <NUM> may comprise (or consist of) a part of a snap button or a snap closure (or similar).

The pin <NUM> further comprises, for example, a needle <NUM> rigidly fixed to the body of the pin and adapted to pierce the fabric on which the pin is fixed.

Alternatively or additionally, the pin <NUM> may comprise an elastic clamp, a serrated clamp, or any other adapted means for clamping and/or piercing the portion of fabric on which the pin is to be fixed.

In <FIG> and <FIG> is illustrated a wearable element <NUM>' according to the invention. Said wearable element is adapted to be applied removably, for example directly, to the skin of the user.

In said embodiment according to the invention, the wearable element comprises, i.e. consists of, an adhesive tape <NUM>.

For example, in the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the adhesive tape <NUM> applied to the user's face near an ear is shown by way of example.

Preferably, two separate adhesive tapes <NUM> are provided which are adapted to be applied to the user's face, e.g., symmetrically with respect to the sagittal mid-plane of the user's face.

Each adhesive tape <NUM> is shaped as a deformable strip, e.g. substantially quadrangular in shape.

For example, by strip it is intended a slab-shaped body with reduced thickness.

The adhesive tape <NUM> comprises an inner face <NUM>, for example flat, and an opposite outer face <NUM>, for example flat and parallel to the inner face <NUM>.

In the present discussion, the inner face <NUM> means the surface of the adhesive tape <NUM> adapted to contact the skin of the user, and the outer face <NUM> means the surface of the adhesive tape <NUM> facing the external environment.

In particular, the inner face <NUM> of the adhesive tape <NUM> is at least partially covered with an adhesive substance adapted to allow a stable connection of the adhesive tape <NUM> to the skin of the user.

For example, an adhesive substance may be applied to (at least part of) the inner face <NUM> of the adhesive tape <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, the inner face <NUM> of the adhesive tape <NUM> may, for example, comprise a fully adhesive layer.

The adhesive tape <NUM> further comprises a housing pocket <NUM>, the main function of which will be better specified in the following description.

Preferably, said housing pocket <NUM> is made at the outer face <NUM> of the adhesive tape <NUM>, so as to protrude, for example, in a direction orthogonal to the lying plane of said outer face <NUM>, on the opposite side with respect to the inner face <NUM>.

However, it is not excluded that the housing pocket <NUM> may be made at the outer face <NUM> by means of a recess obtained in the material of the adhesive tape <NUM>.

The adhesive tape <NUM> may be made of plastic material or at least comprise a plastic film in contact with the adhesive. Alternatively or additionally, the adhesive tape <NUM> may be made of or comprise a layer of fabric or non-woven fabric.

It is not excluded that the adhesive tape <NUM> may comprise a multi-layered structure, thus constituted by superposition of layers having different material conformation and/or composition.

In the embodiment, the adhesive tape <NUM> is flexible. In practice, the adhesive tape <NUM> can be folded and/or rolled up (when not in use) without compromising the structural integrity thereof.

It is also not excluded that the adhesive tape <NUM> may be provided with rigid or semirigid/shape memory parts, so as to support its weight (substantially) without flexing.

The support apparatus, i.e., each support apparatus <NUM>,<NUM>' further comprises a quick coupling device <NUM>,<NUM>', i.e., quick coupling-release device, configured to removably interconnect the face mask <NUM> to the wearable element <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>.

In particular, the quick coupling device <NUM>,<NUM>' comprises a first portion <NUM>,<NUM> adapted to anchor to the face mask, and a second portion <NUM>,<NUM> integrally joined with the wearable element <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>.

In particular, the first portion <NUM>,<NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM>,<NUM>' is adapted to be coupled to the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>, for example at a lateral portion thereof, i.e. proximal to the cheeks of the user in use.

The first portion <NUM>,<NUM> and the second portion <NUM>,<NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM>,<NUM>' are further configured to be removably fixed to each other.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM> is provided with an anchoring device <NUM> configured to anchor the first portion <NUM> to said lateral portion of the face mask <NUM>, that is to the concave portion <NUM> thereof. The anchoring device <NUM> is configured to clamp a part of the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>. In particular, the anchoring device <NUM> comprises a first section <NUM> and a second section <NUM> adapted to clamp a part of the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>.

This part is a part of the concave portion <NUM> made of fabric or non-woven fabric.

In one embodiment not shown, one between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> of the anchoring device <NUM> may be embedded in the material that the face mask <NUM> is made of. In particular, one between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> of the anchoring device <NUM> may be inserted or glued or embedded or intersected with the fibres composing the fabric and/or the non-woven fabric of the face mask <NUM>.

The anchoring device <NUM> may comprise an elongated body adapted to pierce a portion of the face mask <NUM>, for example this body protrudes cantilevered from one between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> of the anchoring device <NUM>.

The anchoring device <NUM> may also comprise a threaded connection member, for example a pair of screws, which is configured to clamp the first section <NUM> against the second section <NUM>. Thus, one between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> comprises a through hole and the other one comprises a threaded hole and the threaded connection member is adapted to cross the through hole by screwing into the threaded hole. The threaded connection member comprises a head which then pushes one of the two sections against the other section during screwing.

In one embodiment not illustrated, the anchoring device <NUM> may comprise a button closure, for example with a snap button, or a snap closure (such as a clip buckle, not described in detail as it is known to those skilled in the art).

For example, in the case of the snap button, the first section <NUM> comprises a first part of the snap button and the second section <NUM> comprises a second part of the snap button which is shaped to removably couple the first part. Again in this case, one between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> is rigidly fixed to the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>, which is therefore not clamped between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM>. In practice, one part of the button protrudes from the face mask <NUM> in such a way that the other part of the snap button can be fixed thereto by pressing.

In another embodiment not shown, the one in which the anchoring device <NUM> comprises a clip buckle, the first section <NUM> comprises a first part of the clip buckle and the second section <NUM> comprises a second part of the clip buckle which is shaped to removably couple the first part. Again in this case, one between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> is rigidly fixed to the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>, which is therefore not clamped between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM>. In practice, one part of the clip buckle protrudes from the face mask <NUM> so that the other part of the snap button can be fixed thereto by pressing.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM>, each have a rectangular, slab-like (thin) shape, and each of which is provided with a respective inner face <NUM>,<NUM> and with a respective outer face <NUM>,<NUM> between which the concave portion <NUM> is clamped.

In detail, the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> are joined at a respective first end <NUM>,<NUM> and separated at a respective second end <NUM>,<NUM>, so as to face each other at a respective inner face <NUM>,<NUM>.

The first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> of the anchoring device <NUM> are thus adapted to clamp between them said portion of the face mask <NUM>, at the respective second end <NUM>,<NUM> between the inner faces <NUM>,<NUM> of each section.

For example, the inner face <NUM> of the first section <NUM> is adapted, in use, to contact the convex outer face <NUM> of the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>, and the inner face <NUM> of the second section <NUM> is adapted, in use, to contact the concave inner face <NUM> of the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>.

The quick coupling device <NUM> comprises a body of elongated quadrangular shape, for example rectangular, adapted to pierce the lateral portion of the concave portion <NUM> of the face mask <NUM>, preferably near the perimeter edge <NUM> thereof.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM> comprises a pair of reliefs <NUM> (hooks) adapted to allow the straps <NUM> to be coupled (when not in use).

For example, the pair of reliefs <NUM> may emerge orthogonally to the lying plane of the outer face <NUM> of the first section <NUM>.

Again, the pair of reliefs <NUM> may for example be made by carving the outer face <NUM> (and the inner face <NUM>) of the first section <NUM>, so that a portion of the first section <NUM> emerges from the outer face <NUM>.

The second section <NUM> of the anchoring device <NUM> comprises at least one fixing pin <NUM>, preferably a plurality of fixing pins <NUM>, for example two in number, preferably arranged at the second end <NUM> thereof.

In particular, said fixing pins <NUM> are for example integral with the second end <NUM> (of the inner face <NUM>) of the second section <NUM>, and are adapted to retain the face mask <NUM> from the inside.

In detail, the fixing pins <NUM> are adapted to pierce the face mask <NUM>, i.e. the concave portion <NUM> thereof adapted to be clamped between the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM>.

For example, these fixing pins <NUM> are internally hollow, preferably provided with an inner threaded hole.

The first section <NUM> of the anchoring device <NUM> further comprises at least one through hole <NUM>, preferably a plurality of through holes, for example two in number, preferably arranged at the second end <NUM> thereof.

The anchoring device <NUM> comprises, in particular, at least one threaded connection member <NUM>, for example two threaded connection members, adapted to be inserted into the through holes <NUM> of the first section <NUM>.

In particular, the threaded connection members <NUM> are adapted to cross the first section <NUM> (at the through holes <NUM>) and to be screwed into the inner threaded hole of each fixing pin <NUM>.

Said threaded connection members <NUM> are, thereby, adapted to clamp the first section <NUM> against the second section <NUM>, retaining the face mask portion <NUM> between them.

The anchoring device <NUM>, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, comprises at least one portion made of metallic material.

The quick coupling device <NUM>, not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, further comprises a second portion <NUM>,<NUM> integral with (or forming part of) the wearable element <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> and adapted to be fixed to the first portion <NUM>, preferably in a removable manner. For example, this second portion <NUM>,<NUM> is rigidly fixed to the wearable element <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> without residual degrees of freedom, preferably it is partially incorporated in the material of the wearable element <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> or is welded or glued or screwed thereto.

Preferably, the quick coupling device <NUM>,<NUM>' is of a magnetic type. In such a case, the second portion <NUM>,<NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM> comprises, therefore, a magnetic element, i.e. a magnet or a body made of ferromagnetic material.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, the second portion <NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM> comprises, i.e. consists of, a magnet rigidly fixed to the wearable element <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>.

Preferably, if the quick coupling device <NUM> is of a magnetic type and the second portion <NUM> comprises a magnet, the first portion <NUM> is at least partially made of a ferromagnetic metal. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, not covered by the subject-matter of the claims, the entire first portion <NUM>, and for example also the anchoring device <NUM>, is made of ferromagnetic material.

If the wearable element is the circumaural temple <NUM> of the first variant, the second portion <NUM>, i.e., the magnet of the second portion, is rigidly fixed to the second coupling end <NUM>. If the wearable element is the circumaural temple <NUM> in the second variant thereof, the second portion <NUM>, i.e., the magnet of the second portion, is rigidly fixed to the first coupling end <NUM>.

If the wearable element is the circumaural temple <NUM> in the third variant thereof, the second portion <NUM>, i.e. the magnet of the second portion, is rigidly fixed to the first coupling end <NUM>, in particular to the second body <NUM> thereof.

If the wearable element is the body <NUM> adapted to be fixed to the eyeglass temple, the second portion <NUM>, i.e., the magnet of the second portion, is rigidly fixed to the second longitudinal coupling end <NUM>.

In further embodiments not shown in the Figure, the quick coupling device may be of the quick release mechanical type.

In such a case, the first portion and the second portion of the quick coupling device can collectively constitute a button closure, for example with a snap button, or a snap closure (for example a clip buckle).

For example, the first portion of the quick coupling device may comprise a part of a snap button adapted to be locked in a through opening made in the wearable element <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> (which comprises the second part of a snap button).

Again, for example, the first portion of the quick coupling device may comprise a flap adapted to be snapped into a through opening made in the wearable element <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> (which constitutes the second portion of quick coupling device).

In case the wearable element comprises, i.e. consists of, the adhesive tape <NUM>, the second portion <NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM>' preferably comprises a magnet or a body made of ferromagnetic material.

Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of the quick coupling device is irremovably fixed to the face mask <NUM>.

In this case the first portion <NUM> does not comprise the anchoring device <NUM> or alternatively it can be said that the anchoring device can be replaced by an adhesive or in any case any irremovable fixing device, or the first portion of the quick coupling device could be incorporated in the material of the face mask <NUM>.

In particular, the <FIG> illustrate a personal protective equipment <NUM>' comprising:.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM>' is irremovably fixed to the face mask <NUM>.

In particular, the first portion <NUM> of the quick coupling device <NUM> is sewn to or embedded in or glued to or incorporated in the material that which the face mask <NUM> is made of.

In more detail, the face mask <NUM> comprises an end flap <NUM> distal from the sagittal mid-plane of the face mask and in which the first portion <NUM> is positioned.

The wearable element preferably consists only of the adhesive tape <NUM>, which is, for example, shaped like a plaster.

In detail, the adhesive tape <NUM> is shaped as a deformable strip, for example of a substantially quadrangular shape.

The quick coupling device <NUM>' may be of the magnetic type, in which case the first portion <NUM> comprises a magnet or a body of ferromagnetic material. Accordingly, the second portion <NUM> may comprise a magnet or a body made of ferromagnetic material if the first portion comprises the magnet, or it must comprise a magnet if the first portion comprises the body made of ferromagnetic material.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> comprises, i.e. consists of, a magnet and the second portion <NUM> comprises, i.e. consists of, a foil made of ferromagnetic material fixed, preferably rigidly fixed, to the adhesive tape <NUM>.

In more detail, said foil is housed within the housing pocket <NUM> of the outer face <NUM> of the adhesive tape <NUM>, and rigidly fixed therein.

Preferably, the personal protective equipment comprises two adhesive tapes <NUM>, two quick coupling devices <NUM>' and the face mask comprises two end flaps opposite to the sagittal mid-plane of the face mask and in each of which a respective first portion <NUM> of the corresponding quick coupling device is positioned.

In further embodiments not shown in the Figure, the quick coupling device could be of the quick release mechanical type.

For example, the first portion of the quick coupling device could comprise a snap button. In <FIG>, the adhesive tape <NUM> as a wearable element is illustrated only in combination with the fact that the first portion of the quick coupling device is irremovable with respect to the face mask <NUM>, however, it is intuitive that said adhesive tape <NUM> could be used in association with a coupling device such as that illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, as described above.

Therefore, the personal protective equipment is also worthy of independent protection and which comprises:.

In all of the embodiments illustrated, the personal protective equipment <NUM>,<NUM>' is configured to be easily worn and removable from the user's face.

In particular, that is, it preferably takes place by means of magnetic connection.

Claim 1:
Personal protective equipment (<NUM>') comprising:
- a filtering face mask (<NUM>) comprising a concave portion (<NUM>) adapted to receive part of the face of a user and a filtering septum, and
- a support apparatus (<NUM>') for said face mask (<NUM>) which is provided with:
∘ a wearable element comprising an adhesive tape (<NUM>), characterized by
∘ a quick coupling device (<NUM>') provided with a first portion (<NUM>) and a second portion (<NUM>) which are removably fixed to each other and in which the first portion (<NUM>) is fixed to the face mask (<NUM>) and the second portion (<NUM>) is integrally joined with the adhesive tape (<NUM>).