MASK RETAINING LANYARD DEVICE

Abstract

Apparatus and associated methods relate to a mask retaining lanyard device. In an illustrative example, the mask retaining lanyard device may include an accessory retaining lanyard, an accessory retaining module coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard for releasably couple to an accessory object, and a mask retaining lanyard portion coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to a facemask. The mask retaining lanyard portion, for example, may include two mask retaining arms. For example, each of the mask retaining arms may be fixedly attached to the accessory retaining lanyard in one end and configured to releasably couple to the facemask in the other end. Various embodiments may advantageously allow the facemask to be selectively operated between a stowage mode and a deployed mode while providing convenient access to often used accessories.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/122,521, titled "MASK RETAINING LANYARD DEVICE," filed by Ri' card Hulett on Dec. 8, 2020.

[0002] This application incorporates the entire contents of the foregoing application(s) herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] Various embodiments relate generally to lanyard devices.

BACKGROUND

[0004] A lanyard may include a cord, strap, string, rope, and/or ribbon-type device commonly worn around the neck which may be used to carry keys, accessories, or some form of identification. Lanyards often feature a ring, hook, spring, clip, or other type of mechanism at the lower end of the device for coupling with the desired item. There are many uses for lanyards, but many people use lanyards as a convenient way to carry identification or keys while on a job site, around school, or possibly while traveling. The use of lanyards can be traced back over hundreds of years to military officers who would sometimes use lanyard-style devices to carry weapons or secure accessories in place while traveling.

[0005] Modern lanyards are produced in a variety of styles and may include many different materials in their construction. Quite often, lanyards are produced from polyester, cloth, string, silk, satin, nylon, and sometimes leather. Some lanyards feature colorful designs or logos to distinguish the wearer's affiliation with some organization, or perhaps to show support for a sports team, charitable foundation, or local business. Whatever their purposes, modern lanyards remain popular due to their efficiency, comfort, and convenience for allowing the user to free up their hands while working or performing a task.

[0006] Currently, almost all countries are dealing with a global health pandemic relating to the spread of the COVID-19 virus. As a result, facemasks and their use have become universal and necessary in fighting and/or mitigating the spread of the virus. In general, a facemask is a covering that may be secured over the face of a user by some sort of securing means. Some facemasks are configured with straps that go around each ear of the user. Others are more specialized in their construction. A facemask may provide a protective barrier designed for placement over the mouth and nose of the wearer.

SUMMARY

[0007] Apparatus and associated methods relate to a mask retaining lanyard device. In an illustrative example, the mask retaining lanyard device may include an accessory retaining lanyard, an accessory retaining module coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard for releasably couple to an accessory object, and a mask retaining lanyard portion coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to a facemask. The mask retaining lanyard portion, for example, may include two mask retaining arms. For example, each of the mask retaining arms may be fixedly attached to the accessory retaining lanyard in one end and configured to releasably couple to the facemask in the other end. Various embodiments may advantageously allow the facemask to be selectively operated between a stowage mode and a deployed mode while providing convenient access to often used accessories.

[0008] Various embodiments may achieve one or more advantages. In some embodiments, a facemask may, for example, be advantageously supported in a convenient location. Some embodiments may advantageously, for example, allow hands-free storage of a facemask. Some embodiments may advantageously allow one-handed operation of a facemask between a stowed and deployed mode. Various embodiments may, for example, advantageously prevent contamination and/or soiling of a breathing surface of a facemask and/or of clothing.

[0009] For example, some embodiments may advantageously provide a coupling mechanism for selectively connect both ends of the accessory retaining lanyard. Some embodiments may, for example, advantageously reduce discomfort on a user's neck during use.

[0010] The details of various embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 presents a front perspective view of an exemplary mask retaining lanyard device.

[0012] FIG. 2 and FIG. 2A present a sectional close-up view of a right mask clip from the exemplary mask retaining lanyard device described in FIG. 1.

[0013] FIG. 3 presents a perspective view of an exemplary mask retaining lanyard device `in-use` showing a facemask retained by the device.

[0014] FIG. 4 presents an alternate perspective view of an exemplary mask retaining lanyard device `in-use` showing a facemask uncoupled from the device.

[0015] FIG. 5 presents a perspective view of the exemplary mask retaining lanyard device from FIG. 4 `in-use` showing a facemask retained by the device.

[0016] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0017] To aid understanding, this document is organized as follows. First, to help introduce discussion of various embodiments, a mask retaining lanyard system is introduced with reference to FIGS. 1-2A. Second, that introduction leads into a description with reference to FIGS. 3-5 of some exemplary embodiments of mask retaining lanyard systems in illustrative use-case scenarios. Finally, the document discusses further embodiments, exemplary applications and aspects relating to mask retaining lanyard systems.

[0018] Shown throughout the figures, various implementations of a mask retaining lanyard device are described. In some implementations, the mask retaining lanyard device may include a mask retaining lanyard and an accessory retaining lanyard. For example, the accessory retaining lanyard may include an accessory clip. The accessory clip may be, as an example without limitation, suited for connecting with almost any item having a loop, slot, hole, or ring such as a key ring or an identification card. In some examples, the mask retaining lanyard may include clips at each end. In various embodiments, the clips may be advantageously useful for gripping and retaining the sides or loops of a facemask device.

[0019] FIG. 1 presents a front perspective view of an exemplary mask retaining lanyard device. The mask retaining lanyard device 100 includes an accessory retaining lanyard 110, a right mask retaining arm 130, a left mask retaining arm 140, and an accessory clip 160. The depicted accessory retaining lanyard 110 includes a top portion 112, a bottom portion 114, a left side 116, a right side 118, an accessory retaining lanyard outer surface 120, and an accessory retaining lanyard inner surface 122. The right mask retaining arm 130 is, in the depicted example, coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard inner surface 122 at a right coupling point 132 generally near the top portion 112 of the device 100. In the depicted example, the left mask retaining arm 140 is coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard inner surface 122 at a left coupling point 142 generally near the top portion 112 of the device 100.

[0020] Unification of the right mask retaining arm 130 to the accessory retaining lanyard 110 at the right coupling point 132 and/or of the left mask retaining arm 140 at the left coupling point 142 may be achieved in a process of original manufacturing of the device 100. In some embodiments assembly of the retaining arm(s) to the accessory retaining lanyard 110 at the corresponding coupling point(s) may, for example, include adhesive (e.g., glue, epoxy). In some embodiments assembly may include mechanical fastener(s) (e.g., snaps, rivets, hook and loop fasteners). In some embodiments assembly may include stitching (e.g., a decorative pattern of filaments at least partially passing through lanyard and the arm repeatedly).

[0021] The right mask retaining arm 130 includes a right mask retaining lanyard inner surface 136 and a right mask retaining lanyard outer surface 138. As depicted, the right mask retaining arm 130 also includes a right mask clip 134 coupled to the right mask retaining lanyard inner surface 136.

[0022] The left mask retaining arm 140 includes a left mask retaining lanyard inner surface 146 and a left mask retaining lanyard outer surface 148. The left mask retaining arm 140 includes a left mask clip 144 coupled to the left mask retaining lanyard inner surface 146. The right mask clip 134 and the left mask clip 144 may be configured to retain the sides and/or the ear-loops from a standard facemask device (not shown).

[0023] In the depicted example, the accessory clip 160 is coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard 110 at the bottom portion 114 of the device 100 by an accessory clip fastener 170. For example, the accessory clip fastener 170 may be configured to penetrate the accessory retaining lanyard 110 going from the accessory retaining lanyard outer surface 120 to the accessory retaining lanyard inner surface 122. In some embodiments, the accessory clip fastener 170 may, for example, rotatably couple the accessory clip 160 to the bottom portion 114 (e.g., by providing a swivel joint).

[0024] FIG. 2 and FIG. 2A present a sectional close-up view of a right mask clip 134 from the exemplary mask retaining lanyard device described in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the mask retaining lanyard device 100 includes an accessory retaining lanyard 110, a right mask retaining arm 130 attached to the accessory retaining lanyard 110 at a right coupling point 132, and a left mask retaining arm 140 attached to the accessory retaining lanyard 110 at a left coupling point 142. The unification of the right mask retaining arm 130 and the left mask retaining arm 140 to the accessory retaining lanyard 110 at the right coupling point 132 and the left coupling point 142 respectively may, for example, be achieved in the process of original manufacturing of the device 100. In some embodiments the mask retaining arm(s) may, for example, be removably coupled. In some embodiments the mask retaining arm(s) may be fixedly coupled (e.g., in fixed orientation and/or alignment relative to the accessory retaining lanyard 110). In some embodiments the mask retaining arms may be rotatably coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard 110. In some embodiments the mask retaining arms may be coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard after manufacturing (e.g., replaceable and/or installable by a user).

[0025] In this example, the mask retaining lanyard device 100 includes an accessory clip 160 having a spine 162, a basket portion 164, a gate 166, and an accessory clip gate spring 168. The accessory clip gate spring 168 may, for example, be suited for keeping the gate 166 biased in a `closed position,` in such a manner that the gate 166 must be manually actuated to retain an accessory therein upon the basket portion 164. The accessory clip 160 may be coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard 110 of the device 100 by an accessory clip fastener 170. The accessory clip fastener 170 may include an inner ring 172, and outer ring 174, and a shank 176. The shank 176 may be configured to penetrate through the accessory retaining lanyard 110 and connect both the inner ring 172 and the outer ring 174. The inner ring 172 and the outer ring 174 may therefore hold the accessory clip fastener 170 and accessory clip 160 in position on the accessory retaining lanyard 110.

[0026] The left mask clip 144 as described in FIG. 1 is positioned in this example at a left mask retaining lanyard end portion 152. The left mask clip includes a left mask clip spring 190, a left mask clip upper arm 192, and a left mask clip lower arm 194. The left mask clip upper arm 192 includes, as depicted, an upper arm proximal end 230 and an upper arm distal end 232. The left mask clip lower arm 194 also includes a lower arm proximal end 234 and a lower arm distal end 236. The left mask clip 144 may be manually actuated by pressing the upper arm proximal end 230 and the lower arm proximal end 234 together. The upper arm distal end 230 and lower arm distal end 236 may thereby be separated and ready for placing a portion of a facemask therein.

[0027] These features are similarly disclosed on the right mask clip 134, which will now be presented in a sectional close-up view in FIG. 2A. As with the left mask clip 144, the right mask clip 134 is coupled to a right mask retaining lanyard end portion 150. The right mask clip 134, as depicted, includes a right mask clip spring 180, a right mask clip upper arm 182, and a right mask clip lower arm 184. The right mask clip upper arm 182 includes an upper arm proximal end 230 and an upper arm distal end 232. The right mask clip lower arm 184 includes a lower arm proximal end 234 and a lower arm distal end 236. The right mask clip spring 180 may be configured to bias the right mask clip upper arm 182 and right mask clip lower arm 184 in a `closed position` until (manually) compressed by the user, such as described for the left mask clip 144.

[0028] FIG. 3 presents a perspective view of an exemplary mask retaining lanyard device `in-use` showing a facemask retained by the device. As disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 1-2A, the mask retaining lanyard device 100 includes, in the depicted example, an accessory retaining lanyard 110, a right mask retaining arm 130, a left mask retaining arm 140, and an accessory clip 160. The right mask retaining arm 130 is coupled to a right mask clip 134. The left mask retaining arm 140 is coupled to a left mask clip 144. The right mask clip 134 and the left mask clip 144 may be configured to removably couple with a facemask 200.

[0029] A facemask 200 includes, as depicted, a right side 202, a left side 204, a top surface 206, and a bottom surface 208. The facemask 200 also includes a right ear-loop 210 affixed to the right side 202 and a left ear-loop 212 affixed to the left side 204. As illustrated, the user may frictionally retain the facemask 200 by placing either the right side 202 and/or the right ear-loop 212 within the right mask clip 134 and the left side 204 and/or the left ear-loop 214 within the left mask clip 144. While retained within the right mask clip 134 and the left mask clip 144 of the right mask retaining arm 130 and the left mask retaining arm 140, the facemask top surface 206 may be supported away from the user's body in a safe and protected manner.

[0030] If desired, the mask retaining lanyard device 100 may couple with the facemask 200 in an inverse configuration having the right side 202 of the facemask 200 retained within the left mask clip 144, while the left side 204 is retained within the right mask clip 134. This configuration may allow the user to keep the facemask bottom surface 208 exposed away from the user's body if preferred. Either configuration may be suitable for making sure that the facemask 200 item is efficiently and safely stored while not is use so that it may not be lost, damaged, or stolen.

[0031] The user may, for example, selectively operate the facemask 200 between a deployed mode (e.g., covering the user's face and nose) and a stowed mode (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 3), as depicted by the double-ended arrow. In the stowed mode, the facemask 200 may be supported, by the mask retaining arms, cranially to the accessory clip 160. Accordingly, various embodiments may advantageously prevent the facemask 200 from being tangled with an accessory (e.g., the accessory clip 160, an accessory attached to the accessory clip 160). Various embodiments may advantageously prevent the facemask 200 from covering an accessory (e.g., an ID badge).

[0032] The top surface 206 may, for example, be supported outward (e.g., due to biasing of the left mask retaining arm 140 and the right mask retaining arm 130) in a stowed state (depicted). The user may grasp the facemask 200 (e.g., by the bottom surface 208) and rotate the facemask 200 onto the user's face such that the top surface 206 is against the user's face. Accordingly, the top surface 206 may, for example, be prevented from being contaminated and/or soiled by the user's clothing and/or skin. Sputum and/or other discharge from the user's mouth on the top surface 206 may, for example, be prevented from contaminating the user's neck/chest and/or soiling the user's clothing.

[0033] In some embodiments the arms (e.g., right mask retaining arm 130, left mask retaining arm 140) may be configured (e.g., length, orientation) such that the facemask 200 may be operated into a deployed mode by a user without decoupling the facemask 200 from the lanyard device 100 (e.g., from the right mask clip 134 and the left mask clip 144). Accordingly, the user may selectively operate the facemask 200 between the deployed and the stowed mode while allowing the mask to remain coupled to the lanyard device 100. Various embodiments may advantageously allow a wearer to keep the facemask 200 in a convenient location in a stowed and a deployed mode.

[0034] FIG. 4 presents an alternate perspective view of an exemplary mask retaining lanyard device in an illustrative use-case scenario showing a facemask uncoupled from the device. as depicted, the mask retaining lanyard device 100 includes an accessory retaining lanyard 110, a right mask retaining arm 130, a left mask retaining arm 140, and an accessory clip 160. The right mask retaining arm 130 includes a right mask retaining lanyard snap 322. The left mask retaining arm 140 includes a left mask retaining lanyard snap 332. The right mask retaining lanyard snap 322 and the left mask retaining lanyard snap 332 may be configured to removably couple with a snapping facemask 300. in the depicted example, the snapping facemask 300 includes a right side 302, a left side 304, a top surface 306, and a bottom surface 308, a right snap 320, and a left snap 330. The snapping facemask 300 includes a right ear-loop 310 affixed to the right side 302 and a left ear-loop 312 affixed to the left side 304.

[0035] As illustrated, the user may frictionally retain the snapping facemask 300 by snapping the right snap 320 to the right mask retaining lanyard snap 322 and the left snap 330 to the left mask retaining lanyard snap 332. While the snaps remain connected, the snapping facemask top surface 306 may, for example, be supported away from the user's body in a safe and protected manner. If desired, the mask retaining lanyard device 100 may couple with the snapping facemask 300 in an inverse configuration having the right snap 320 coupled to the left mask retaining lanyard snap 332, while the left snap 330 is coupled to the right mask retaining lanyard snap 322. This configuration may, for example, allow the user to keep the snapping facemask bottom surface 308 exposed away from the user's body if preferred. Either configuration may be suitable for making sure that the snapping facemask 300 item is efficiently and safely stored while not is use so that it may not be lost, damaged, or stolen. As illustrated here in FIG. 4, the snapping facemask 300 remains in an `uncoupled` position.

[0036] FIG. 5 presents a perspective view of the exemplary mask retaining lanyard device from FIG. 4 `in-use` showing a facemask retained by the device. As disclosed at least with reference to FIGS. 1-3, the mask retaining lanyard device 100, as depicted, includes an accessory retaining lanyard 110, a right mask retaining arm 130, a left mask retaining arm 140, and an accessory clip 160. The right mask retaining arm 130 includes a right mask retaining lanyard snap 322. The left mask retaining lanyard includes a left mask retaining lanyard snap 332. The right mask retaining lanyard snap 322 and the left mask retaining lanyard snap 332 may be configured to removably couple with the snapping facemask 300. The snapping facemask 300, as depicted, includes a right side 302, a left side 304, a top surface 306, a bottom surface 308, a right snap 320, and a left snap 330. The snapping facemask 300 includes, as depicted, a right ear-loop 310 affixed to the right side 302 and a left ear-loop 312 affixed to the left side 304.

[0037] As illustrated, the user may frictionally retain the snapping facemask 300 by snapping the right snap 320 to the right mask retaining lanyard snap 322 and the left snap 330 to the left mask retaining lanyard snap 332. While the snaps remain connected, the snapping facemask top surface 306 may be supported away from the user's body in a safe and protected manner. If desired, the mask retaining lanyard device 100 may couple with the snapping facemask 300 in an inverse configuration having the right snap 320 coupled to the left mask retaining lanyard snap 332, while the left snap 330 is coupled to the right mask retaining lanyard snap 322. This configuration may allow the user to keep the snapping facemask bottom surface 308 exposed away from the user's body if preferred. Either configuration may be suitable for making sure that the snapping facemask 300 item is efficiently and safely stored while not is use so that it may not be lost, damaged, or stolen. As illustrated here in FIG. 5, the snapping facemask 300 is presented in a `coupled` or retained position, and the mask (selectively operated) in a stowed position not on the user's face and supported by the lanyard device 100.

[0038] Although various embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, other embodiments are possible. For example, although an exemplary system has been described with reference to FIGS. 1-5, other implementations may be deployed in other industrial, scientific, medical, commercial, and/or residential applications.

[0039] In various implementations, the device may include a lanyard construction including an accessory retaining lanyard and a mask retaining lanyard. For example, the accessory retaining lanyard may include an accessory clip. In some implementations, the accessory clip may be suited for connecting with items that are including a loop, slot, hole, and/or ring. For example, the accessory clip may be configured to connect to a key ring or an identification card.

[0040] The mask retaining lanyard may include clips at each end. These clips may be configured with tension springs that allow for moderate resistance against an object. The clips may, for example, be especially useful for gripping and retaining the sides or loops of a facemask device. In this manner, the user may always make sure to keep track of their facemask without sacrificing space on their lanyard clip or needing to hold their facemask by hand.

[0041] In some embodiments the mask retaining lanyard device may be configured with snaps on both the right mask retaining lanyard and the left mask retaining lanyard. In this version, a snapping facemask may also be included. The mask retaining lanyard device may, for example, be configured for carrying both a personal item/accessory such as keys and/or an identification card (e.g., along with a facemask) while not in use.

[0042] In various embodiments, fasteners and/or coupling modules may be configured at the ends of the mask retaining lanyard portions for retaining a facemask therein. For instance, the left mask retaining lanyard and the right mask retaining lanyard may include hook and loop fasteners configured to couple with complimentary hook and loop fastening portions on a facemask. Additional designs, custom indicia, and decorative adornments may also be contemplated, including but not limited to, jewels, beads, jewelry-like adornments, necklace-style lanyard portions, etc.

[0043] The accessory clip may be suited for connecting with almost any item having a loop, slot, hole, or ring such as a key ring or an identification card. The mask retaining lanyard may include clips at each end. These clips may be configured with tension springs that allow for moderate resistance against an object. The clips may serve as a retaining means and be especially useful for gripping and retaining the sides or loops of a facemask. In this manner, the user may advantageously make sure to keep track of their facemask without sacrificing space on their lanyard clip or needing to hold their facemask by hand.

[0044] In some implementations, the mask retaining lanyard may be structured and arranged as two separate lanyard portions serving as a left lanyard and a right lanyard. The lanyard portions may be constructed from a nylon-type material. The left and right lanyards may be coupled to the inner surface of the accessory retaining lanyard. The clips used at the end of the right and left mask retaining lanyards may be alligator-style clips having an upper and lower arm. The clips may be actuated by applying simple pressure with two or more fingers. These arms may be configured to provide sufficient gripping strength to grasp and retain a facemask throughout a standard workday or outing. For example, the mask retaining lanyard device may be operated in a deployed mode when the facemask is covering a face of a wearer, and a stowage mode when the mask retaining lanyard retains the facemask below the face of the wearer and cranially to the accessory retaining lanyard.

[0045] In an exemplary aspect, a retaining module(s) used on the right and left mask retaining lanyard portions may be configured as snaps. In another aspect, the snaps may be self-sustaining and wrap back around upon themselves for coupling an item therein.

[0046] In an exemplary aspect, the snaps may include a corresponding set of snaps on the sides of a snapping facemask. In this aspect, a snap on the right side of the snapping facemask may couple with a snap on the right mask retaining lanyard. In similar fashion, a snap on the left side of the snapping facemask may couple with a snap on the left mask retaining lanyard.

[0047] In another aspect, the retaining module(s) may include a hook and loop fastener. In this aspect, a hook and loop fastener on the right side of the facemask may couple with a corresponding and opposing hook and loop fastener on the right mask retaining lanyard. In similar fashion, a hook and loop fastener on the left side of the facemask may couple with a corresponding and opposing hook and loop fastener on the left mask retaining lanyard.

[0048] In some embodiments mask retaining module(s) may, for example, include one or more magnets. For example, magnetic modules may be coupled to the lanyard end portion 150 and the lanyard end portion 152, respectively. The magnetic modules may, for example, be configured to releasably engage magnetic modules on a facemask. In some embodiments, magnetic modules may be provided to be (releasably) coupled (e.g., magnetic pairs configured to `sandwich` the facemask) to the facemask.

[0049] In an exemplary aspect, the mask retaining lanyard may not be separated into left and right mask retaining lanyards. In some embodiments a mask retaining lanyard may be configured as a single mask retaining lanyard that couples to the accessory retaining lanyard such that mask retaining arm(s) extend inward (e.g., towards a centerline) from the accessory retaining lanyard. The mask retaining lanyard may, for example, be coupled to the top-inner surface of the accessory retaining lanyard.

[0050] In an exemplary aspect, the mask retaining lanyard device may be at least partially constructed from an elastic-type material. In some embodiments, the mask retaining lanyard device may be at least partially constructed from a cotton-based material. In various embodiments, the mask retaining lanyard device may include a design and/or decorative indicia on outer and/or inner surface(s).

[0051] In another aspect, the mask retaining lanyard device may include a jeweled portion. The jeweled portion may be configured as a surface featuring jewels and/or a jewelry-like design including, by way of example and not limitation, beads, stones, or other jewelry-like designs.

[0052] In some embodiments mask retaining arms may be coupled to an outer surface of the accessory retaining lanyard. For example, the right mask retaining arm 130 and/or the left mask retaining arm 140 may, for example, be coupled to the lanyard outer surface 120.

[0053] In various embodiments cushioned (e.g., filter, padded) material may be provided. For example, a cushion may be disposed on and/or about the top portion 112. The cushion may, for example, be slidably coupled over the lanyard 110. The cushion may, for example, be releasably coupled to the lanyard 110. The cushion may, for example, be wrapped around (e.g., snapped, hook-and-loop fabric secured, magnet) around the top portion 112.

[0054] In an exemplary aspect, a mask retaining lanyard device may include an accessory retaining lanyard; an accessory retaining module coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to an accessory object; and, a mask retaining lanyard portion coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to a facemask. The mask retaining lanyard portion may include a first mask retaining arm; and a second mask retaining arm. A proximal end of each of the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm may be fixedly attached to the accessory retaining lanyard. A distal end of each of the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm may be provided with a corresponding distal coupling module configured to releasably couple to the facemask, such that, when the facemask is coupled to the distal coupling modules, the facemask may be selectively operated at least between a deployed mode over a face of a wearer, and a stowage mode wherein the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm retains the facemask below the face of the wearer and cranially to the accessory retaining module.

[0055] The accessory retaining lanyard may further include a coupling device at each end of the accessory retaining lanyard. The coupling device may be configured such that the ends of the accessory retaining lanyard are selectively connected.

[0056] The mask retaining lanyard device may include an outer sleeve configured such that the mask retaining lanyard portion is coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by the outer sleeve.

[0057] The mask retaining lanyard portion may be coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by a pattern of filament repeatedly passing at least partially through the accessory retaining lanyard and the mask retaining lanyard portion.

[0058] The mask retaining lanyard portion may be coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by at least one malleable coupling member passing through each of the accessory retaining lanyard and the mask retaining lanyard portion.

[0059] The distal coupling modules may each include a spring-loaded clip.

[0060] The distal coupling modules may each include a hook.

[0061] The distal coupling modules may each include a magnetic element.

[0062] The distal coupling modules may each include a first snap element configured to releasably engage the facemask when brought into register with a corresponding second snap element coupled to the facemask and a predetermined minimum force is applied urging each first snap element into engagement with the corresponding second snap element.

[0063] In an exemplary aspect, a mask retaining lanyard device may include an accessory retaining lanyard; an accessory retaining module coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to an accessory object; and, a mask retaining lanyard portion coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to a facemask. The mask retaining lanyard portion may include a first mask retaining arm; and a second mask retaining arm. A proximal end of each of the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm may be fixedly attached to the accessory retaining lanyard. A distal end of each of the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm may be provided with a corresponding distal coupling module configured to releasably couple to the facemask.

[0064] When the facemask is couple to the distal coupling module, the facemask may be selectively operated at least between: a deployed mode over a face of a wearer, and a stowage mode when the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm retains the facemask below the face of the wearer and cranially to the accessory retaining module.

[0065] The accessory retaining lanyard may include a coupling device at each end of the accessory retaining lanyard. The coupling device may be configured such that the ends of the accessory retaining lanyard are selectively connected.

[0066] The mask retaining lanyard device may include an outer sleeve configured such that the mask retaining lanyard portion is coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by the outer sleeve.

[0067] The mask retaining lanyard portion may be coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by a pattern of filament repeatedly passing at least partially through the accessory retaining lanyard and the mask retaining lanyard portion.

[0068] The mask retaining lanyard portion may be coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by at least one malleable coupling member passing through each of the accessory retaining lanyard and the mask retaining lanyard portion.

[0069] The distal coupling modules each may include a spring-loaded clip.

[0070] The distal coupling modules each may include a hook.

[0071] The distal coupling modules each may include a magnetic element.

[0072] The distal coupling modules each may include a first snap element configured to releasably engage the facemask when brought into register with a corresponding second snap element coupled to the facemask and a predetermined minimum force is applied urging each first snap element into engagement with the corresponding second snap element.

[0073] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made. For example, advantageous results may be achieved if the steps of the disclosed techniques were performed in a different sequence, or if components of the disclosed systems were combined in a different manner, or if the components were supplemented with other components. Accordingly, other implementations are contemplated within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A mask retaining lanyard device, comprising: an accessory retaining lanyard; an accessory retaining module coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to an accessory object; and, a mask retaining lanyard portion coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to a facemask, wherein the mask retaining lanyard portion comprises: a first mask retaining arm; and a second mask retaining arm; wherein a proximal end of each of the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm is fixedly attached to the accessory retaining lanyard, and a distal end of each of the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm is provided with a corresponding distal coupling module configured to releasably couple to the facemask, such that, when the facemask is coupled to the distal coupling modules, the facemask may be selectively operated at least between: a deployed mode over a face of a wearer, and a stowage mode wherein the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm retains the facemask below the face of the wearer and cranially to the accessory retaining module.

2. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 1, wherein the accessory retaining lanyard further comprises a coupling device at each end of the accessory retaining lanyard, the coupling device configured such that the ends of the accessory retaining lanyard are selectively connected.

3. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 1, further comprising an outer sleeve configured such that the mask retaining lanyard portion is coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by the outer sleeve.

4. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 1, wherein the mask retaining lanyard portion is coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by a pattern of filament repeatedly passing at least partially through the accessory retaining lanyard and the mask retaining lanyard portion.

5. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 1, wherein the mask retaining lanyard portion is coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by at least one malleable coupling member passing through each of the accessory retaining lanyard and the mask retaining lanyard portion.

6. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 1, wherein the distal coupling modules each comprise a spring-loaded clip.

7. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 1, wherein the distal coupling modules each comprise a hook.

8. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 1, wherein the distal coupling modules each comprise a magnetic element.

9. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 1, wherein the distal coupling modules each comprise a first snap element configured to releasably engage the facemask when brought into register with a corresponding second snap element coupled to the facemask and a predetermined minimum force is applied urging each first snap element into engagement with the corresponding second snap element.

10. A mask retaining lanyard device, comprising: an accessory retaining lanyard; an accessory retaining module coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to an accessory object; and, a mask retaining lanyard portion coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to a facemask, wherein the mask retaining lanyard portion comprises: a first mask retaining arm; and a second mask retaining arm; wherein a proximal end of each of the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm is fixedly attached to the accessory retaining lanyard, and a distal end of each of the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm is provided with a corresponding distal coupling module configured to releasably couple to the facemask.

11. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, wherein, when the facemask is couple to the distal coupling module, the facemask may be selectively operated at least between: a deployed mode over a face of a wearer, and a stowage mode when the first mask retaining arm and the second mask retaining arm retains the facemask below the face of the wearer and cranially to the accessory retaining module.

12. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, wherein the accessory retaining lanyard further comprises a coupling device at each end of the accessory retaining lanyard, the coupling device configured such that the ends of the accessory retaining lanyard are selectively connected.

13. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, further comprising an outer sleeve configured such that the mask retaining lanyard portion is coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by the outer sleeve.

14. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, wherein the mask retaining lanyard portion is coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by a pattern of filament repeatedly passing at least partially through the accessory retaining lanyard and the mask retaining lanyard portion.

15. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, wherein the mask retaining lanyard portion is coupled distally to the accessory retaining lanyard by at least one malleable coupling member passing through each of the accessory retaining lanyard and the mask retaining lanyard portion.

16. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, wherein the distal coupling modules each comprise a spring-loaded clip.

17. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, wherein the distal coupling modules each comprise a hook.

18. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, wherein the distal coupling modules each comprise a magnetic element.

19. The mask retaining lanyard device of claim 10, wherein the distal coupling modules each comprise a first snap element configured to releasably engage the facemask when brought into register with a corresponding second snap element coupled to the facemask and a predetermined minimum force is applied urging each first snap element into engagement with the corresponding second snap element.

20. A mask retaining lanyard device, comprising: an accessory retaining lanyard; an accessory retaining module coupled to the accessory retaining lanyard and configured to releasably couple to an accessory object; and, means for releasably coupling a facemask to the accessory retaining lanyard such that, when the facemask is coupled to the means for releasably coupling the facemask, the facemask may be selectively operated at least between: a deployed mode over a face of a wearer, and a stowage mode wherein the means for releasably coupling the facemask retains the facemask below the face of the wearer and cranially to the accessory retaining module.