Face mask for athletes and long-term wear

Abstract

A face mask that may be constructed from a series of interchangeable pieces that will form a mask that does not rest against the user's face and may allow for increased breathability and sealing.

1 . A face masking system comprising:
 a set of structural components including at least a nose clip and a neck strap;   an intermediate frame coupled to each of the set of structural components, the intermediate frame having sufficient structural rigidity to be supported solely by the set of structural components; and   a fabric element attached to the intermediate frame.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the intermediate frame includes grommets that couple to at least one of the set of structural components. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the intermediate frame is made of a structural foam. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 3 , wherein the structural foam defines a series of holes therein. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the intermediate frame is made of a moldable polymer mesh. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the intermediate frame is made of a filter medium held by a rubber border. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the fabric is attached to the intermediate frame with a set of snaps. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the fabric includes a set of pockets that engage with the intermediate frame. 
     
     
         9 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the fabric is adhered to the intermediate frame. 
     
     
         10 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the intermediate frame is made of a moldable polymer mesh;   the structural components further comprise a plurality of border pieces;   the nose clip is held to the moldable polymer mesh with at least two grommets; and   the intermediate frame includes an attachment means that facilitates removable and replaceable connection with the fabric element.   
     
     
         11 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the intermediate frame is made of a structural foam defining a plurality of holes therein;   the structural components further comprise a plurality of border pieces;   the nose clip is held to the structural foam with at least two grommets; and   the intermediate frame includes an attachment means that facilitates removable and replaceable connection with the fabric element.   
     
     
         12 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein:
 the intermediate frame is a filter medium held by a rubber border;   the structural components further comprise a plurality of border pieces;   the nose clip is held to the rubber border with at least two grommets; and   the intermediate frame includes an attachment means that facilitates removable and replaceable connection with the fabric element.