Stress reducing, light blocking, sleeping mask to improve sleep and overall health

Abstract

The stress reducing sleep mask uses a construction of layered lightweight fabrics that, when combined through the manufacturing process, effectively block light, enhance air flow, and improve comfort. The unique combination of materials and molded construction (forming) allows the mask to conform as needed around specific facial anatomical landmarks, reducing gaps that allow light filtration. This device includes a refined headband adjustment, which eliminates the need for uncomfortable buckles, or applications that create other forms of discomfort due to sleeping position or hair entanglements. An integrated acupressure device, which has been shown in clinical studies to induce calm and relaxation, helps users to fall asleep more easily. The pressure of the device can be controlled through adjustment of the headband.

Claims

1. A sleeping mask comprised of a molded, anatomically-conforming design with multi-layers of fabric or other similar materials that are free-floating and not adhered to one another for the purpose of promoting light blocking, air movement, and moisture evaporation.

2. A sleeping mask which includes an acupressure device for stress relief and relaxation, located at the Yin Tang point, superior to the bridge of the nose and midway between the medial ends of the eyebrows.

3. A sleeping mask with a detachable headband, connecting to the facial surface of the anatomically conforming mask, for the purpose of adjusting fit specific to the desire of individual consumers.

4. A sleeping mask from claims 1 and 3 which includes an acupressure device for stress relief and relaxation, located at the Yin Tang point, located superior to the bridge of the nose and midway between the medial ends of the eyebrows.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 shows the molded mask with anatomical contours.

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates the molded domes creating space in front of the eyes.

[0015] FIG. 3 presents the inner lining of the mask.

[0016] FIG. 4 displays a cutout view of the molded and layered construction of the mask.

[0017] FIG. 5 shows a rear view of the detachable headband.

[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates the front view of the detachable headband.

[0019] FIG. 7 displays the attachment points of the headband on the molded sleeping mask.

[0020] FIG. 8 presents a cutout view of the mask, highlighting the acupressure mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. The terms “comprises” or “comprising,” when used in this specification, indicate the presence of stated features, elements, or components, but do not preclude the presence of one or more other features or elements.

[0022] In describing the invention, it will be understood that a number of features, or components, will be disclosed. Each of these has unique benefits, and each can also be used in conjunction with one or more, or in some cases, all of the other disclosed features or components. For the sake of clarity, therefore, this description will refrain from attempting to identify every possible combination of benefits derived from this invention. Nevertheless, this specification should be read with the understanding that such combinations are completely within the scope of the invention and claims.

[0023] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. The present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated by the figures or description below.

[0024] The present invention will now be described by referencing the appended figures representing preferred embodiments. FIG. 1 depicts a front view of the sleeping mask according to the various embodiments of the current invention. The molded construction improves the interface between the mask and face by following the specific anatomical facial contours, above the eyebrows, along the cheek bones, and at the temples, as illustrated (1-6). The soft, pliable nose cutout (7) permits the mask to follow the contours of the nose and cheeks and eliminates voids beneath the eyes. These embodiments form a close connection to facial anatomical landmarks, when the mask is secured against the head, ensuring an uninterrupted fit for improved light blocking.

[0025] The molded construction of this invention includes embodiments seen in FIG. 2. The two dome-like voids in front of the eyes (8,9) increase the distance between the mask's surface and the eyelashes, eliminating unnecessary contact which may disrupt sleep.

[0026] FIG. 3 provides a magnified view of the material on the facial surface of the sleeping mask. The embodiments herein (10) include a closed cell, perforated foam core, promoting breathability and light-damping, and a machine washable, 3-dimensional single mesh lining, against the face, which increases comfort.

[0027] A section view of the sleeping mask is seen in FIG. 4, illustrating the molded, layered construction of the invention. The outer, baffle layer (11) deflects and diffuses light, while an air gap (12) between the outer and inner layers reduces overall weight and increases air circulation and overall comfort. The domed curvature anterior to the eyes can also be seen in the section.

[0028] An embodiment of this invention is the detachable headband (FIG. 5). Potential embodiments of this feature may include stretchable materials with nominal body, to hold shape, provide comfort and promote air permeability. Removing the headband prior to machine washing increases product durability and hygiene. The contoured ends of the headband (13) attach to the lateral corners of the eye shade, providing a secure fit. Embodiments of the diagonal cutouts in the headband (14) comprise either laser or die cuts. These cutouts permit stretching in the headband, improving adjustability, fit and comfort. The head-facing surface of the headband is illustrated in FIG. 6. A hook and loop fastener (15) is placed at the outer ends of the headband, which when wrapped around the head, interfaces with the eye shade at its lateral corners.

[0029] FIG. 7 shows the interface between the eye shade and the headband. As illustrated the hook and loop element on the headband connects with its counterpart on the eye shade at its lateral corners (16,17). The particular embodiment of this placement is to position the joined components of the sleeping mask just forward of the temples. The location of the closures, forward of the temples, is least likely to result in pressure points arising from the head pressing onto the elements, regardless of the position in which one sleeps. This position also reduces the likelihood of hair getting snagged in the closure.

[0030] FIG. 8 provides a section view of the center of the invention, with particular focus on the highlighted feature (18). As illustrated on the right side of the figure, an embodiment includes a raised protuberance located above the bridge of the nose and between the eyebrows. The corresponding location on the face is an established acupressure site known as the Yin Tang point. Light compression of the Yin Tang point has been associated with stress reduction, induced calm, and improved sleep. Compression of the Yin Tang point may be modified by adjusting the headband and subsequently, the tightness of the sleeping mask.