Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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SAFETY EYEWEAR
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[01] This application is related to and claims priority from earlier filed
U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Serial No. 61/156,564 filed March 2, 2009, continuation-in-part of
earlier filed U.S.
Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/344,346 filed September 28, 2009,
continuation-in-part
of earlier filed U.S. Design Patent Application Serial. No. 29/344,351 filed
September 28, 2009,
continuation-in-part of earlier filed U.S. Design Patent Application Serial
No. 29/344,352 filed
September 28, 2009, continuation-in-part of earlier filed U.S. Design Patent
Application Serial
No. 29/344,355 filed September 28, 2009, continuation-in-part of earlier filed
U.S. Design Patent
Application Serial No. 29/344,356, and earlier filed U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Serial
No. 61/246,781 filed September 29, 2009, the entire contents of all
applications are incorporated
herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[02] The present invention relates generally to safety eyewear and more
particularly to a
safety eyewear including, alone or in combination, a nose piece structure with
multiple axes of
adjustment, a horizontal ledge defined within a lens of the safety eyewear for
attaching a nose
piece structure, a wicking device attached to the safety eyewear to remove or
absorb perspiration,
a coloration or tinting of an outer peripheral edge of a lens for indicating a
performance
characteristic of safety eyewear or a lens and/or selected absorption of
visible wavelengths of
light, or temple bars of the safety eyewear having adjustable width.
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[03] Wearing of eyeglasses and the like while engaged in vigorous activity can
be difficult for
various reasons. One reason is a fundamental inability of most eyeglass frames
to remain
properly attached to the wearer's face whenever the wearer is engaged in
activity including rapid
or extensive movements of the head and/or body. A conventional eyeglass having
this
disadvantage likely will become detached from the wearer's face in such
instances, especially
during activities which generate perspiration.
[04] Another reason is a general discomfort associated with wearing eyeglasses
in conjunction
with a helmet, hat or other headgear, which is commonly worn when
participating in vigorous
activities, such as skiing, bike riding, rafting, climbing, motorcycling, etc.
With many known
eyeglass designs, nose pieces can be bulky or non-conforming to a user's nose
such that when
worn with a helmet, the nose can be uncomfortably and often painfully pressed
against the nose
piece structure. Further, some devices and mechanisms coupled to the nose
piece structure and
designed to keep the eyeglasses on the wearer's face act only to magnify this
discomfort.
[05] Another reason is the lack of adjustment features in many eyeglasses that
prevent
customization of the eyewear to the wearer's face. Such customization allows
individual fitting
of the eyewear to that wearer's individual facial profile for comfort and
security when in use.
Many eyeglasses today lack the customization necessary to adapt to various
head shapes and
ethnic profiles.
[06] Many people wear eyeglasses for reasons other than, or in addition to,
vision correction.
Well-known examples are the large number of different types of "sunglasses"
that reduce the
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intensity (and/or change the wavelength) of light reaching the wearer's eyes.
Other well-known
examples are so-called "safety glasses" usually used for eye protection
against identified hazards
in industrial, occupational and laboratory environments. Yet other well-known
examples are
various "goggles" and the like.
[07] To address the concerns raised by the need for eyewear that will remain
on the wearer's
face during vigorous activity, various schemes have been adopted. For example,
certain types of
eyewear, notably goggles and certain types of eyeglasses, employ a strap,
elastic band, cord, or
analogous feature (usually adjustable) that extends fully around the rear of
the wearer's head,
rearwardly of the ears. Unfortunately, although these features are effective,
they can be
uncomfortable and are usually not favored for use when style is important.
Also, eyewear with
this feature is difficult to put on and take off, especially when the wearer
is also wearing a hat or
helmet. Other types of eyewear have temple pieces with metal-like,
semicircular, "wrap-around"
ear-engaging portions that curve downward fully behind the wearer's ears.
[08] The prior art safety eyewear suffers from a couple of disadvantages.
Specifically, the
prior art does not allow for safety eyewear including a nose piece structure
with multiple axes of
adjustment, a horizontal ledge defined within a lens of the safety eyewear for
attaching a nose
piece structure, a wicking device attached to the safety eyewear to remove or
absorb perspiration,
a coloration or tinting of an outer peripheral edge of a lens for indicating a
performance
characteristic of safety eyewear or a lens and selected absorption of visible
wavelengths of light,
temple bars of the safety eyewear having adjustable width. Accordingly, it
would be desirable in
the art to have a safety eyewear that includes a nose piece structure with
multiple axes of
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adjustment, a horizontal ledge defined within a lens of the safety eyewear for
attaching a nose
piece structure, a wicking device attached to the safety eyewear to remove or
absorb perspiration,
a coloration or tinting of an outer peripheral edge of a lens for indicating a
performance
characteristic of safety eyewear or a lens and selected absorption of visible
wavelengths of light,
temple bars of the safety eyewear having adjustable width.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[09] The invention preserves the advantages of prior safety eyewear. In
addition, it provides
new advantages not found in currently available safety eyewear and overcomes
many
disadvantages of such currently available safety eyewear.
[10] The safety eyewear of the present invention includes, alone or in
combination, a nose
piece structure with multiple axes of adjustment, a horizontal ledge defined
within a lens of the
safety eyewear for attaching a nose piece structure, a wicking device attached
to the safety
eyewear to remove or absorb perspiration, a coloration or tinting of an outer
peripheral edge of a
lens for indicating a performance characteristic of safety eyewear or a lens
and selected
absorption of visible wavelengths of light, temple bars of the safety eyewear
having adjustable
width.
[11] The nose piece structure is configured to provide adjustment along one or
more axes.
The nose piece structure includes a nose support and a nose pad. The present
invention relates to
safety eyewear having a nose piece structure with multiple axes of adjustment.
The nose piece
structure includes a nose support and a nose pad. The nose support having a
substantial inverse
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V or U shape configured for attachment to a portion of eyewear. The nose pad
has a metal core
overmolded with a soft deformable material which can be adjusted along an
axis. An insert
portion of the metal core extends outside of the material of the nose pad
along a horizontal axis
for insertion within the receiving portion of the nose support. The nose pad
defines multiple non-
uniform fins for comfort and adjustment along an axis. The receiving portion
and the insert
portion attached together to allow adjustment of the nose pad along an axis.
[12] The safety eyewear of the present invention includes a horizontal ledge
defined within a
lens of the safety eyewear for attaching the nose piece structure. The safety
eyewear including a
frame and a lens for at least one temple bar hingedly connected to the frame.
The nose piece
structure configured for attachment to a central portion of the lens. The nose
piece structure
having a channel defining horizontal ledge indents for mating engagement with
horizontal ledge
protrusions defined within the central portion of the lens. The central
portion of the lens defining
horizontal ledge protrusions for inserting within the ledge indents of the
nose piece structure
when the nose piece structure and the lens are attached together. In another
embodiment, the
channel of the nose piece structure defines horizontal ledge protrusions for
mating engagement
with horizontal ledge indents defined within the central portion of the lens.
[13] The safety eyewear of the present invention includes the wicking device
attached to a
frame of the safety eyewear to remove or absorb perspiration. In one
embodiment, the wicking
device includes a brow-bar, sub-frame, and wicking material. The sub-frame
removably or
permanently attached to the frame of the safety eyewear using a variety of
means for attachment
to the eyewear frame. The brow bar removably or permanently attached using
variety of means
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for attachment to the sub-frame. The wicking material removably or permanently
attached using
a variety of means for attachment to the brow bar. It is also contemplated
that the wicking
device may include additional combinations such as the brow-bar and the
wicking material or
sub-frame and wicking material using a variety of means for attachment to the
eyewear.
[14] The safety eyewear of the present invention includes a coloration or
tinting of an outer
peripheral edge of a lens for indicating a performance characteristic of
safety eyewear or a lens
and selected absorption of visible wavelengths of light. In one embodiment,
the eyewear
includes a VLT rated lens having a light visible tint or slight mist tint to
provide ornamental
coloration of the outer peripheral lens edge. The lens has a roughened or
textured cut along an
outer peripheral edge of the lens to diffract light. The outer peripheral lens
edge is color coded
according to a performance characteristic of the lens or the eyewear. In
operation, the
ornamental color of the outer peripheral edge of the lens is activated upon
the diffraction of light
along the roughed or texture outer peripheral edge of the lens while still
meeting industry VLT
requirements for a substantially clear lens.
[15] The safety eyewear of the present invention includes temple bars with
adjustable width.
The safety eyewear including a frame, at least one temple bar hingedly
connected to the frame,
and a hinge assembly hingedly connected to the at least one temple bar and the
frame to facilitate
increasing or decreasing inward adjustment of the temple bar. An adjustment
badge of the hinge
assembly provides a means for adjusting the inward adjustment of the temple
bar. The
adjustment badge, as it moves forward, decreases range of inward pivotal
movement of said at
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least one temple bar, and wherein said adjustment badge, as it moves rearward,
increases range
of inward pivotal movement of said at least one temple bar.
[16] It is an object of the present invention to provide a nose piece
structure with multiple axes
of adjustment.
[17] It is another object of the present invention to provide a horizontal
ledge defined within a
lens of the safety eyewear for attaching a nose piece structure.
[18] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wicking device
attached to the
safety eyewear to remove or absorb perspiration.
[19] It is also another object of the present invention to provide a
coloration or tinting of an
outer peripheral edge of a lens of the safety eyewear for indicating a
performance characteristic
of safety eyewear or a lens and/or selected absorption of visible wavelengths
of light.
[20] A further object of the present invention is to provide temple bars of
the safety eyewear
having adjustable width.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[21] The novel features which are characteristic of the present invention are
set forth in the
appended claims. However, the invention's preferred embodiments, together with
further objects
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and attendant advantages, will be best understood by reference to the
following detailed
description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
[22] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the safety eyewear in accordance with the
present
invention including a nose piece structure, a horizontal ledge defined within
the lens, a wicking
device, a coloration or tinting of an outer peripheral edge of the lens, and
temple bars having
adjustable width;
[23] FIG. 2 is a front view thereof;
[24] FIG. 3 is a rear view thereof;
[25] FIG. 4 is a right view thereof, the left view is a mirror image thereof;
[26] FIG. 5 is a top view thereof;
[27] FIG. 6 is a bottom view thereof;
[28] FIG. 7A is perspective view of the nose piece structure of the safety
eyewear showing an
example of a first position of adjustment of the nose pad relative to the nose
pad mount;
[29] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the nose piece structure of the safety
eyewear showing
an example of second position of adjustment of the nose pad relative to the
nose pad mount;
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[30] FIG. 8 is a bottom exploded view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A;
[31] FIG. 9 is a side view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A;
[32] FIG. 10 is top view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A;
[33] FIG. 1 IA is a rear view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A showing
an example of a
first position of adjustment of the nose pad along an axis;
[34] FIG. 11B is a rear view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A showing an
example of a
second position of adjustment of the nose pad along an axis;
[35] FIG. 11C is a rear view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A showing an
example of a
third position of adjustment of the nose pad along an axis;
[36] FIG. 12A is a rear view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A showing an
example of a
first position of adjustment of the fins along an axis;
[37] FIG. 12B is a rear view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A showing an
example of a
second position of adjustment of the fins along an axis;
[38] FIG. 13 is bottom exploded view of an alternative embodiment of FIG. 7A;
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[39] FIG. 14 is a side view of the nose piece structure of FIG. 7A attached to
the safety
eyewear;
[40] FIG. 15A is a front view of the horizontal ledge defined within the lens
of the safety
eyewear;
[41] FIG. 15B is a partial view of the lens of FIG. 15A having the horizontal
ledge ;
[42] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the wicking device of the safety
eyewear;
[43] FIG. 17 is a front view thereof;
[44] FIG. 18 is a rear view thereof,
[45] FIG. 19 is a left view thereof, the right view is a mirror image thereof,
[46] FIG. 20 is a top view thereof,
[47] FIG. 21 is bottom view thereof,
[48] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the wicking device of Fig. 16;
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[49] FIG. 23A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of FIG. 16;
[50] FIG. 23B is a top view of an alternative embodiment of FIG. 16;
[51] FIG. 24 is a partial view of the inner surface of the frame connection
portion;
[52] FIG. 25A is a perspective view of an example of a snap mechanism for
connecting the
wicking bar to the wicking sub-frame;
[53] FIG. 25B is a perspective view of another example of a snap mechanism for
connecting
the wicking bar to the wicking sub-frame;
[54] FIG. 25C is a perspective view of another example of a snap mechanism for
connecting
the wicking bar to the wicking sub-frame;
[55] FIG. 26A is a cross-sectional view of a wicking device including a
wicking sub-frame
and wicking material;
[56] FIG. 26B is a cross-sectional view of another example of a wicking device
including a
wicking sub-frame and wicking material;
[57] FIG. 26C is a cross-sectional view of another example of a wicking device
including a
wicking sub-frame and wicking material;
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[58] FIG. 27 is a crosss-sectional view of a holding mechanism used for
attaching the brow
bar area to the wicking sub-frame;
[59] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the wicking
device;
[60] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the wicking bar and wicking material of
FIG. 28;
[61] FIG. 30 is a partial view of the wicking bar of FIG. 29 directly attached
to the frame;
[62] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the wicking
device;
[63] FIG. 32A is perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the wicking
sub-frame;
[64] FIG. 32B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the
wicking sub-frame;
[65] FIG. 32C is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the wicking sub-
frame;
[66] FIG. 32D is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the wicking sub-
frame;
[67] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the colored tinting along the outer
peripheral edge of the
lens;
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[68] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the colored
tinting along the
outer peripheral edge of the lens;
[69] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the colored
tinting along the
outer peripheral edge of the lens;
[70] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the safety eyewear of the present
invention having
temples with width adjustment;
[71] FIG. 37 is an exploded view of the hinge assembly providing the
adjustment of the
temple width;
[72] FIG. 38 is an exploded view of the hinge assembly providing the
adjustment of the
temple width;
[73] FIG. 39A is a side view of the temple bar of the present invention with
the adjustment
badge in the rearward position;
[74] FIG. 39B is a side view of the temple bar of the present invention with
the adjustment
badge in the forward position;
[75] FIG. 40 is a top view of the safety eyewear of FIG. 36;
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[76] FIG. 41 is a top view of the safety eyewear of FIG. 36;
[77] FIG. 42 is a top view of the safety eyewear of FIG. 36;
[78] FIG. 43 is a front perspective view of an another embodiment of the
safety eyewear;
[79] FIG. 44 is a front view thereof;
[80] FIG. 45 is a rear view thereof;
[81] FIG. 46 is a right view thereof;
[82] FIG. 47 is a left view thereof;
[83] FIG. 48 is a top view thereof;
[84] FIG. 49 is a bottom view thereof;
[85] FIG. 50 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the safety
eyewear;
[86] FIG. 51 is a front view thereof;
[87] FIG. 52 is a rear view thereof;
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[88] FIG. 53 is a right view thereof;
[89] FIG. 54 is a left view thereof;
[90] FIG. 55 is a top view thereof;
[91] FIG. 56 is a bottom view thereof;
[92] FIG. 57 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the safety
eyewear;
[93] FIG. 58 is a front view thereof;
[94] FIG. 59 is a rear view thereof;
[95] FIG. 60 is a right view thereof;
[96] FIG. 61 is a left view thereof;
[97] FIG. 62 is a top view thereof; and
[98] FIG. 63 is a bottom view thereof.
S067 P01801-PCT
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[99] Now referring generally to FIGS. 1-6, the safety eyewear 100 of the
instant invention is
illustrated and generally indicated. As will hereinafter be more fully
described, the safety
eyewear 100 includes, either alone or in combination, a nose piece structure
200 with multiple
axes of adjustment, a horizontal ledge 300 defined within a lens 120 of the
safety eyewear 100
for attaching the nose piece structure 200, a wicking device 400 attached to
the safety eyewear
100 to remove or absorb perspiration, a coloration or tinting 500 of an outer
peripheral edge
120A of the lens 120 for indicating a performance characteristic of the safety
eyewear 100 or the
lens 120 and/or selected absorption of visible wavelengths of light, or temple
bars 600, 620 of
the safety eyewear 100 having adjustable width to accommodate a head of a
user. By having one
or more of these elements 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 of the safety eyewear 100
alone or in
combination, the safety eyewear 100 provides a more versatile adjustment and
better designed
experience for the user, while reliably meeting national and international
performance standards
for impact resistance and other standards.
Nose Piece with Multiple Axes of Adjustment
[100] Referring to FIGS. 7A-14, the safety eyewear 100 of the present
invention includes a
nose piece structure 200 with at least one or more axes (P, Q, R) of
adjustment. The nose piece
structure 200 includes a nose support 210 and a nose pad 220 which are
attached at a single point
of attachment with a common axis. The nose support 210 generally has a
substantial inverse V
or U shape and is configured for attachment to a central portion of the lens
120 of the safety
eyewear 10, preferably a lower central portion of the lens 120. The nose
support 210 includes
an inner wall 21 OA and an outer wall 21 OB to define a channel 211 between
the inner 21 OA and
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outer wall 210B for seating within the central portion or a bridge area of the
eyewear 10. A
bottom end profile of each end of the channel generally defines an "L" shape.
In one
embodiment, the inner wall 210A has a height substantially greater than the
height of the outer
wall 210B.
[ 101 ] The channel 211 defines one or more ledge indents 212, 213 for mating
engagement with
one or more horizontal ledge protrusions 312, 313 defined within the central
portion of the
eyewear 100. Of course, the configuration may be reversed with the channel 211
defining one or
more ledge protrusions (not shown) for mating engagement with one or more
horizontal ledge
indents (not shown) defined within the central portion of the eyewear 100.
[102] The inner wall 210A, closest to the nose pad 220, includes a receiving
portion 230
defined on an inner surface of the inner wall 210A for receiving an insert
portion 240 formed
with the nose pad 220. The receiving portion 230 protrudes from the inner wall
210A along a
substantially horizontal axis. The receiving portion 230 is formed near a
middle area or apex of
the nose support 210 adjacent a top upper edge of the nose support 210.
[103] The receiving portion 230 having a central area 231 defining a semi-
circle shape and
adjacent opposing side areas 232, 233 defining generally rectangular shapes
located on either
side of the central area 231. In one embodiment, the height of the receiving
portion 230 is
approximately equal to a height of the inner wall 210A. A transverse slot 233
extends across a
width of the central area 231 of the receiving portion 230 with dimensions
suitable for
engagement with the insert portion 240. A receiving portion aperture 234 is
defined through a
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top area of the central area 231 and through a bottom area of the central area
231 along a vertical
axis.
[104] The nose pad 220 includes an insert portion 240. The nose pad 220
includes a wire or
metal core insert (not shown) which is over molded with a soft molding or
deformable material
which is comfortable to a user's nose. The insert portion 240 of the metal
core extends outside of
the molding material along a substantially horizontal axis for insertion or
engagement within the
receiving portion 230 of the nose support 210. The insert portion 240 of the
metal core made of
material to provide adjustment along an axis of the nose piece structure 200.
In one
embodiment, the insert portion 240 is formed on an inner surface of the nose
pad 220 and
protruding from the inner surface along a substantially horizontal axis. The
insert portion 240
formed near a middle area or apex of the nose pad 220 near a top edge of the
nose pad 220. The
insert portion 240 including a horizontal flange proportionally sized for
engagement within the
receiving portion 230. The insert portion aperture 244 defined through the
insert portion 240
along a vertical axis. In one embodiment, the insert portion 240 generally
defines a square shape
but of course the invention is not limited to this particular shape.
[105] It is important to point out the benefits of the nose pad 220 during the
manufacturing
process. The nose pad 220, due to its unique configuration, can facilitate the
manufacturing
process. In particular, the nose pad 220 includes a wire or metal core insert
which is overmolded
with a soft molding or deformable material. The flexibility of the nose pad
220 allows it to be
molded in a flat configuration which greatly simplifies the manufacturing
process.
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[106] The nose pad 220 and the nose support 210 are joined together by a
variety of means
with mainly a single point of attachment. The insert portion aperture 244 and
the receiving
portion aperture 234 are respectively positioned along a common axis when the
insert portion
240 is inserted into the receiving portion 230. The receiving portion 230 and
the insert portion
240 joined together by means for attachment to allow adjustment of said nose
pad along an axis.
For example, a fastener, such as a screw, may be vertically routed through the
insert portion
aperture 244 and the receiving portion aperture 234 to attach the insert
portion 240 to the
receiving portion 230 while permitting adjustment along one or axes. In
another embodiment, a
fastener is not required and the nose pad 220 and the nose support 210 are
snapped together.
[107] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the nose pad 220 generally defines an
inverted V or U
shape with two sides 220A, 220B defining fins 222 therein along an outer
surface. The nose pad
220 is movable relative to the nose support 210 along an axis P of adjustment.
As illustrated in
FIG. 7A, an example of a first position of the nose pad 220 relative to the
nose support 210 is
shown. As illustrated in FIG. 7B, an example of a first position of the nose
pad 220 relative to
the nose support 210 is shown. Of course, it is contemplated that nose pad 220
is movable
relative to the nose support 210 to accommodate a range of user's noses having
different
dimensions and sizes.
[108] The nose pad 220 has a recessed area 224 about the insert portion 240 to
accommodate a
range of axial movement of the nose pad 220 relative to the nose support 210.
The width of the
recessed area of the nose pad 220 is greater than or approximately equal to
the width of the
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receiving portion 230. The receiving portion 230 has a recessed or cut-out
area defining a semi-
circle which facilitates the free movement of the nose pad 220.
[109] Referring to FIGS. 11A-11C, the nose pad 220 having the two sides 220A,
220B is
movable relative to one another along an axis Q of adjustment. The metal core
insert (not
shown) of the nose pad 220 is flexible to provide an adjustment along an axis
wherein the two
sides 220A, 22B are movable relative to one another. As illustrated in FIG. 1
IA, an example of
a first position of the two sides 220A, 220B relative to one another is shown
which generally
defines approximately 90 degree angle. As illustrated in FIG. 11B, an example
of a second
position of the two sides 220A, 220B relative to one another is shown which
generally defines
approximately 60 degree angle. As illustrated in FIG. 11 C, an example of a
third position of the
two sides 220A, 220B relative to one another is shown which generally defines
approximately 45
degree angle. Of course, it is contemplated that the two sides 220A, 220B of
the nose pad 220
are moved to an angle ranging from 0 to 360 degrees to accommodate a range of
user's noses
having different dimensions and sizes.
[110] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, one or more fins 222 of the nose pad 220
are movable
for another axis R of adjustment. In one embodiment, the fins 222 are non-
uniform and defined
within the outer surface of the nose pad 220. In another embodiment, the fins
222 are equally
spaced apart with varying depths. For example, the fins 222 may include three
fins with a
similar, deeper thread and two fins with a shallow thread. The nose pad 220
defines uniform or
non-uniform fins or fingers for adjustment of angle to nose to provide comfort
and adjustment to
the user, as well as to accommodate differing ethnic profiles. In one
embodiment, at least three
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or more the fins 222 or fingers define a rectangular shape. Of course, it is
understood that the
fins 222 may define a shape other than rectangular, such as square, circular,
triangular, or any
other type of shape which can provide an adjustment of the angle to the nose
to provide comfort
and adjustment to the user. The fins 222 providing an adjustment along an axis
of the nose piece
200 structure which enhances retention and slippage of nose piece structure
from a user's nose.
For example, as illustrated FIG. 12A, the fins 222 may be adjusted to a first
position to
accommodate a user's nose. In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 12B, the
fins be adjusted
to a second position to accommodate a user's nose. Of course, it is
contemplated that an angle
range different from those examples may be used to accommodate a range of
user's noses having
different dimensions and sizes.
[109] Referring to FIG. 13, an alternative embodiment 200B of the nose piece
structure 200 is
illustrated. The nose piece structure 200B generally includes a nose support
210B and a nose
pad 220B similar to nose piece structure 200 except for the insert portion
240B and the receiving
portion 230B. The insert portion 240B defines a tab or flange extending from
the nose pad
220B. The receiving portion 230B generally defines a square shape with a slot
therein for
receipt of the tab or flange. There insert portion 240B snaps into the
receiving portion 230B at a
single point of attachment to secure the nose pad 220B to the nose support
210B.
[110] Referring to FIG. 14, in operation, the nose piece structure 200 is
attached to the central
portion of the lens 120 of the safety eyewear 100. The central portion of the
safety eyewear 100
being inserted in and between the inner 21 OA and the outer wall 21OB of the
nose support 210
until the horizontal ledge protrusions 312, 313 defined within the lens 120
engages the ledge
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indents 212, 213 defined within the channel 211 of the nose support 210. Once
the nose piece
structure 200 is attached to the central portion of the lens 120, the nose
piece structure 200 can
be adjusted along more than one axis. For example, an axis of adjustment is
the movement of
the two sides 220A, 220B of the nose pad 220 relative to one another. Another
axis of
adjustment is the movement of the fins 222 defined within the nose pad 220.
Also, another axis
of adjustment is the movement of the nose pad 220 relative to the nose support
210. Overall, the
nose piece structure 200 allows for multiple axis of adjustment in at least a
vertical or horizontal
plane. It should be noted that the nose pad 220, the fins 222, and the two
sides 220A, 220B, may
be moved along any axis, any angle from 0 to 360 degrees, or in any direction
relative to the
nose support 210 to provide comfortable fit to a user.
Horizontal Ledge for Lens
[111] Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, the safety eyewear 100 of the present
invention
includes a lens 120 having at least one horizontal ledge 300, 302 for securing
the lens 120 to the
nose piece structure 200. The safety eyewear 100 includes a frame 110, the
lens 120, and at least
one temple bar 600, 620 hingedly connected to the frame 110. The nose-piece
structure 200
includes a nose pad 210 and a nose support 220. The nose piece structure 200
is configured for
permanent or releasable attachment to a central portion of the lens 120.
The horizontal ledge 300, in one embodiment, defines horizontal ledge
protrusions 312, 313 or
bumps on the lens 120 for mating engagement with ledge indents 212, 213
defined within the
channel 211 of the nose piece structure 200. The central portion, or
preferably the lower central
portion of the lens 120, defines horizontal ledge protrusions 312, 313 for
engagement within the
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ledge indents 212, 213 when the nose piece structure 200 and the lens 120 are
attached or
snapped together.
[112] In one embodiment, the central portion of the lens 120 has a recessed
area 314 that
includes two horizontal ledges 300, 302. The recessed area 314 of the lens
defines an inverted
V-shape or U-shape and is formed in the lower central portion of the lens 120.
The recessed area
314 includes a perimetral edge 316 or outermost edge. At least one more
opposing, horizontal
ledge protrusions 312, 313 extend inwardly from the perimetral edge 316. Each
protrusion 312,
313 defines a first horizontal ledge 300 and a second horizontal ledge 302.
The first horizontal
ledge 300 and the second horizontal ledge 302 including a substantially
horizontal projection
300A, 302, forming a narrow shelf on the lens 120 for engaging with the ledge
indents 212, 213
of the nose-piece structure 200. A ledge support area 300B, 302B for both the
first and second
horizontal ledges 300, 302 extends along a downward slope towards a bottom end
of the recessed
area 314. Each ledge support area 300B, 302B defines a gradual declining
portion and a less
gradual or steeper declining portion. The first horizontal ledge 300 and the
second horizontal
ledge 300 substantially aligned along a common, horizontal ledge axis S.
[113] A top portion 314A of the recessed area 314 extends above the common,
horizontal ledge
axis S. In one embodiment, the top portion 314A of the recessed area 314 has a
mushroom-
shape. More importantly, the top portion 314A of the recessed area 314
provides a sufficient
clearance area to allow for ledge indents 212, 213 within the channel 211 of
the nose support 210
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to clear a corner of the horizontal ledge 300, 302. The nose support 210 has
ledge indents 212,
213 which are proportionally sized to snap over the horizontal ledges 300,
302.
[114] A bottom portion 314B of the recessed area 314 extends below said
common, horizontal
ledge axis S. The bottom portion 314B includes a height fifty percent or more
than the height of
the top portion 314A of the recessed area 314. The width of the bottom portion
314B increases
from the common horizontal ledge axis S to a bottom end of the recessed area
314. The width of
the bottom end of the recessed area 314 is fifty percent or more than the
height of the bottom
portion 314A or the top portion 314B.
[115] When the ledge indents 212, 213 of the nose piece structure 200 engages
the horizontal
ledge protrusions 312, 313 of the lens 120, the nose piece structure 200 has a
more secure
connection to the lens 120. Of course, the configuration may be reversed with
the channel 211
defining one or more ledge protrusions (not shown) for mating engagement with
one or more
horizontal ledge indents (not shown) defined within the central portion of the
eyewear 100.
Wicking Device for Safety Eyewear
[116] Referring to FIGS. 16-32D, the safety eyewear 100 of the present
invention includes a
wicking device 400 or assembly for releasable attachment to the eyewear frame
110 for
removing moisture or sweat from or near the eyewear 100. The wicking device
400 includes one
or more of the following: a wicking sub-frame 410, a wicking bar 420, and an
absorbent or
wicking material 430 attached to either the wicking bar 420 or the wicking sub-
frame 410. In one
embodiment, the wicking sub-frame 410 is attached to the eyewear 110, the
wicking bar 420 is
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attached to the wicking sub-frame 410, and the wicking material 430 is
attached to the wicking
or brow bar 420. The sub-frame 410 and brow bar 420 define mating shapes for
interlocking
into one another which secures the sub-frame 410 to the brow bar 420. Note,
there are numerous
configurations of the wicking device 400 which will be further discussed
below.
[117] The wicking sub-frame 410 has a proximal and a distal end and is
removably or
permanently attached to the eyewear frame 110. In a preferred embodiment, the
wicking sub-
frame 410 or wicking bar 420 is removably attached at the end pieces 110A, 1 l
OB of the frame
110. In one embodiment, the wicking sub-frame 410 is a single piece plastic
bar defining an "L
shape which follows the contour of the top and inner periphery of the brow
area of the frame
110. A portion of the wicking sub-frame 410 contacts or engages the frame 110
along an inner
periphery or top of the brow area of the frame 110. In particular, the wicking
sub-frame 410 has
a length sufficient to accommodate the length of the brow bar 420.
[118] The wicking sub-frame 410 may define apertures, recesses, slots, or
other receiving
portions 412A, 412B at a distal and proximal ends of the sub-frame 410 to
allow the brow bar
420 to be inserted therein for securing purposes. Of course, the sub-frame 410
may also include
protrusions, extensions, hooks, or other insert portions 412 for engaging a
receiving portion 422
of the brow or wicking bar 420 for securing the sub-frame 410 to the frame
110.
[119] The sub-frame 410 may also include recesses, slot, apertures, or other
receiving portions
at the proximal and distal ends for receiving an insert portion of the frame
110 for securing the
sub-frame 410 to the frame 110. Of course, the sub-frame 410 may also include
protrusions,
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extensions, hooks, or other inserts portions 414A, 414B at the proximal and
distal ends for
engaging a receiving portion of the frame 110 for securing the sub-frame 410
to the frame 110.
In one embodiment, the sub-frame 410 may snap into the inner frame 110 of the
eyewear 100 or
by other methods known in the art.
[120] Referring to FIGS. 23A-32D, there are a variety of methods for removably
attaching or
releasably securing the proximal and distal ends of the sub-frame 410 to the
wicking bar 420. In
one embodiment, the wicking sub-frame 400B includes injection molded plastic
end pieces 410B
with a locking or snap mechanism 411B therein. The injection molded end pieces
410B provide
a locking or snap mechanism 411B for inserting the wicking bar 420. The
locking mechanism
may include a Tinnerman (Fig. 25A), S-wedge post (Fig. 25B), or a snap
mechanism (Fig. 25C)
as illustrated. Once the wicking bar 420B is inserted into the locking
mechanism 411B, a lock
releasably or permanently secures the wicking bar 420B into the wicking sub-
frame 410B. The
proximal and distal end of the wicking bar 420B then snaps into or attaches to
the proximal and
distal ends of the plastic end pieces 410B. Thereafter, the sub-frame 410B is
attached to the
frame 110 of the eyewear 100.
[ 121 ] In one embodiment, the wicking sub-frame 410B includes a snap hook
detail 411 C,
mechanism snaps, protrusion, or insert portion 411D which engages a mating cut-
out or
receiving portion 112 on the eyewear frame 110. In another embodiment,
illustrated in FIG.
29D, a sub-frame 410K may be attached to the brow area of the frame 110 using
a holding
mechanism 460 as shown.
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[122] The wicking or brow bar 420 is a flexible bar made of plastic or spring
steel which
provides a platform for the wicking material 430 attached to the brow bar 420.
In one
embodiment, the wicking bar 420 is configured for receiving the wicking
material which is
shaped into a tubular sleeve. Preferably, the wicking bar 420 has a
cylindrical or rounded shape
for slipping or inserting the tubular wicking material 430. The surface of the
wicking bar 420 is
sufficiently smooth to allow the tubular wicking material 430 to pass over the
length of the brow
bar 420 without tearing or stacking up. The wicking bar 420 has a circular
shape which follows
along the inner outline of the frame 110 of the eyewear 100. The wicking bar
420 is releasably
or permanently attached to the sub-frame 410 or directly to the frame 110 of
the eyewear 100
itself. In one embodiment, the wicking bar 420 is snap fit into the sub-frame
410. In another
embodiment, the shape of the wicking bar 420 may be L shaped, oval, or
rectangular, or other
shapes suitable for resting upon a user's brow area.
[123] The wicking material 430 attached to the wicking bar 420 is used for
removing or
absorbing sweat or moisture from the brow or face of a user. It is
contemplated that the wicking
material 430 may have a tubular shape of mesh fabric or other types of
stitching. Note, the
wicking material may have a shape other than tubular for attachment to the
wicking bar 420.
The wicking material 430 may be permanently or removably attached to the
wicking bar 420.
The wicking material 430 may include a moisture absorbent fabric or other
wicking material for
removing moisture. Some examples of other wicking material may include Sorbtek
or other
absorbent fabric or sponge material, such as a foam pad or foam material, for
absorbing or
removing moisture or perspiration for the face of a user.
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[124] The absorbent material or wicking material 430 may be attached and end-
sealed by a
variety of methods known in the art including the following: heat shrink,
burning, welding,
dipping, overmolding, melting, applying adhesive, overlaying, snapping into,
and coating similar
to a shoelace tip. The configuration of the wicking material 430 and the brow
bar 420 may
determine how the wicking material 430 and the brow bar 420 are attached and
how the end-seal
of the wicking material 430 is achieved. These are merely examples of possible
methods for
attaching the wicking material 430 to the brow bar 420 or the sub-frame 410.
Most importantly,
any method of attaching the wicking material 430 should prevent fraying of
yarn ends and stack
up of material.
[125] In one embodiment, the wicking material 430 may be a combination of both
a closed cell
material and stitched fabric material. First, a foam material is die cut and
attached to the brow
bar 420 with low initial tack adhesive. Next, a wicking material 430 is slid
over the brow bar
430 with attached foam to provide further pressure, conformance to head, and
comfort to the
user. It should be noted that the tubular wicking material 430 or sleeve may
be subdivided into
more than one piece to facilitate pulling over the wicking bar 420, sub-frame
410, or attachment
to the frame 110 of the eyewear 100 directly.
[126] Referring to FIGS. 26A-C, there are a number of other possible
embodiments for the
wicking device 400. As illustrated in FIG. 26A, an L shaped sub-frame 410C
having a mesh
wicking material 430 covering the sub-frame 410C is attached to the existing
frame 110 of the
eyewear 100. Of course, the wicking bar or a combination of the sub-frame and
wicking bar
may be substituted with the wicking sub-frame 420C. As illustrated FIG. 26B, a
wicking sub-
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frame 41 OD made of a mixture of TPU 440B (thermoplastic polyurethane) and
rigid or structural
plastic 440A has a mesh wicking material 430D over the wicking sub-frame 410D
which is
attached to the existing frame 110 of the eyewear 100. Of course, the wicking
bar or a
combination of the sub-frame and wicking bar may be substituted for the
wicking sub-frame
410D. As illustrated in FIG. 26C, a wicking sub-frame 410E includes a mixture
of foam 450A
and plastic material 450B with a mesh wicking material 430E over the wicking
sub-frame which
is attached to the existing frame 110 of the eyewear 100. Of course, the
wicking bar or a
combination of the sub-frame and wicking bar may be substituted for the
wicking sub-frame
410E.
[127] Referring to FIGS. 27-32D, the wicking device 400F includes the wicking
bar 420F and
absorbent or wicking material 430F without a sub-frame. The wicking bar 420F
may contain a
connection mechanism at its distal and proximal ends for being secured to the
inside of the
eyewear frame 110. In one embodiment, the wicking bar 420F has a hook at a
proximal and
distal end for snapping into a recess or aperture defined with the frame 110.
Another method of
attachment of the brow bar 420G directly to the inner frame 110 includes a
snap mechanism
422G located on a middle portion of the wicking bar 420F which engages the
aperture 412G
located on the frame 110.
[128] In another embodiment, the wicking device 400 includes a sub-frame 410
and absorbent
material or wicking material 430 without a brow or wicking bar 420. The sub-
frame 410 has a
proximal and distal end which is removably attached to the brow area of the
eyewear frame 110.
In one embodiment, the sub-frame 410 defines an "L" shape and travels along an
inner periphery
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of the brow bar area of the frame 110. The proximal and distal ends of the sub-
frame 410
including raised protrusions which interfittingly engage recess areas defined
with end pieces of
the eyewear. It is contemplated that additional methods known in the art for
joining the sub-
frame and the eyewear may be done also such as adhesives, fasteners, etc.
[129] The wicking material 430 is pulled over the sub-frame 410 and then the
sub-frame 410
and the frame 110 of the eyewear are snapped or attached together. Referring
to FIGS. 32A-D,
in one embodiment, the sub-frame is a series of one or more pieces 41 OH (one
piece), 410I (two
pieces-A, B), 410J (three pieces - A, B, C) joined together by a variety of
attachment
mechanisms, such as illustrated in Fig. 32B. For example, the sub-frame 410J
is divided into a
main band and two end pieces for engagement to the frame 110 of the eyewear.
The band of the
sub-frame 410J snappingly engages the two end pieces for either permanent or
releasable
attachment. In this case, one of the end pieces may be integrally or
permanently attached to the
band, while the opposite end is detachable in order to allow the wicking
material 430 to be easily
slid over the band and sealed in place before securing it in its final
assembled position. Of
course, the sub-frame 410 and the wicking bar 420 may be divided into less
than or greater than
three pieces.
[130] In one embodiment, the wicking material is mesh fabric stitched into a
sleeve and pulled
along the brow bar to cover it. In another embodiment, the sub-frame is
interlocked with
thermoplastic polyurethane and surrounded by the wicking material which is
mesh fabric. In
another embodiment, the sub-frame is attached to foam material and surrounded
by the wicking
material which is mesh fabric. To strengthen the connection, the sub-frame may
also include a
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holding mechanism for securing the sub-frame to the brow area of the eyewear.
In another
embodiment, the sub-frame includes two or more pieces which are snapped
together and each
piece has wicking material situated over the sub-frame.
[131] In one embodiment, the wicking sub-frame 410 is a single piece that
includes an insert
portion 414A, 414B at each end. Each insert portion 414A, 414B of the sub-
frame 410 is
engaged within a corresponding receiving portion defined within the end pieces
of the eyewear
frame. The sub-frame further includes receiving portions at each end to allow
insert portions of
the brow bar to be inserted therein. The brow bar matingly engages a contour
of the subframe
along a substantial portion of its length, the brow bar slightly raised above
an upper surface of
the sub-frame. To further secure the sub-frame to the eyewear, a central
protrusion extends from
the sub-frame near a central portion of the upper eyeframe area. The central
protusion engages a
receiving aperture within the brow bar to secure the brow bar the sub-frame.
It is also
contemplated that the wicking material 430 may be attached directly to the
frame of the eyewear
without a brow bar of sub-frame to absorb or remove moisture or perspiration
from a persons'
face.
[132] In operation, the wicking bar device 400 is removably or permanently
attached to the
frame 110 of the eyewear. While a user sweats, the perspiration is absorbed or
removed by the
wicking material 430 on the wicking bar device 400. After usage of the wicking
bar 400, the
wicking bar 400 may be replaced or cleaned by removing the wicking bar 400, or
its individual
components, and replacing or cleaning it. Also, the wicking material 430 may
be removed from
the brow bar 420, sub-frame 410, or the frame 110 of the eyewear for cleaning
or replacing after
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usage. Overall, the wicking bar 400 may be removable, replaceable, washable,
and have easy
mounting and detachment for a user.
Color Mist Tint for Safety Eyewear
[133] Referring to FIGS. 33-35, the safety eyewear 100 of the present
invention includes a
coloration or tinting 500 of an outer peripheral edge 120A of the lens 120 for
indicating a
performance characteristic of the safety eyewear 100 or the lens 120 and/or
selected absorption
of visible wavelengths of light. The VLT (Visible Light Transmission) rated
lens 120 has a light
dye or tint 500 to provide ornamental color and/or selected absorption of
visible wavelengths of
light. The VLT is the percentage of available light allowed to reach the eye.
In a preferred
embodiment, the VLT rating is not less than 85%, such VLT allowing the
transmission of ample
light for use in most indoor settings A range of 74% to 90% or higher than 90%
may also be
used in the present invention. The lens 120 having a roughened or textured cut
along an outer
peripheral edge 120A to facilitate diffraction of light and bring out the tint
of the lens 120. Other
than the outer peripheral textured edge 120A, the tint is not clearly shown,
or instantly
perceivable in the lens 120. The lens 120 having a light visible tint 500, or
mist, along said
roughened or textured cut edge to provide ornamental coloration of the outer
peripheral edge
120A. The outer peripheral edge 120A of the lens 120 may be color coded
according to a
coating provided on the lens 120, indicating the function of the coating. Most
importantly, a
user can see the color 500 of the outer peripheral edge 120A of the lens 120
while still meeting
industry VLT requirements for a substantially clear lens. By having the color
or mist tint 500
occur on the outer peripheral edge 120A, it provides the user with the entire
front and back
surface area of the lens 120 for viewing without interference from coloration.
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[134] For example, a blue mist tint 500 may be provided which is shown when
light diffracts
along the outer peripheral edge 120A having the textured surface. The blue
mist tint, in one
embodiment, may indicate the general purpose, a characteristic of the lens
(i.e. coating), quality,
or a specific targeted purpose of the eyewear 100. A blue mist tint 500 may
indicate a particular
type of coating on the lens 120, such as anti-fogging, anti-glare, hard
coating, or nuisance
reduction. Of course, many tint colors may be used other than blue to indicate
the performance
characteristics or other features of a particular lens or eyewear. For
example, Figs. 35 and 36
show the possibility of different color orientations depending upon the tint
500 and textured cut
along the outer peripheral edge 120A of the lens 120. Of course, it is
possible that the textured
cut along the outer peripheral edge 120A may extend the entire surface of the
outer peripheral
edge 120A or less than the entire surface of the outer peripheral edge 120A.
[135] It is further contemplated that there may be more than one color used
for a series of
eyewear 100 depending upon the environment in which the lens or eyewear is
being used. For
example, a lens may display a tint color 500 of red along the outer peripheral
edge 120A of the
lens 120 if the eyewear 100 is not suitable for the particular environment.
Conversely, a lens 120
may display a tint color 500 of green along the outer peripheral edge 120A if
the lens or the
eyewear 100 is suitable for the particular environment based on prevailing
lighting conditions.
[136] Another benefit of the color coding 500 of the outer peripheral edge
120A of the lens 120
is color therapy and color filtration. Color therapy is known to affect a
person's mood or
demeanor depending upon the desired affect by using color. By using different
color coded
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lenses, the colors used may actually affect the work or job performance of the
user. Color
filtration, in special lighting conditions, is also a known effect of tinting
the lens. By selecting
the proper tint and lens material, certain wavelengths of light may be
filtered in order to attenuate
certain wavelengths for task specific situations even in indoor settings where
overall VLT should
be maximized.
[137] In one embodiment, the eyewear 100 includes a frame 110 and a lens 120
having a mist
or slight tint embedded or integrated within the material of the lens 120
during the manufacturing
process of the lens. The lens 120 has a front surface 120B and a back surface
120C. In one
embodiment, the entire front surface and back surface of the lens 120 has a
VLT rating greater
than or equal to 85%. The lens 120 includes a mist tint or slight tint in the
lens material to
provide ornamental color and selected absorption of visible wavelengths of
light along the outer
peripheral edge 120A of the lens 120. The outer peripheral edge 120A of the
lens 120 has a
roughened or textured cut edge to diffract light. In one embodiment, the outer
peripheral edge
120A of the lens 120 has a VLT rating greater than 50%. The lens 120 has the
slight or mist tint
500 along said roughly cut outer peripheral edge 120A to provide ornamental
coloration of the
lens edge. The lens edge color coded according to a performance characteristic
of the lens 120
or the eyewear 100. In operation, the ornamental color of the lens is
activated upon the
diffraction of light along the outer peripheral edge 120A of the lens 120
while still meeting
industry VLT requirements for a substantially clear front and back surface of
the lens 120.
Temple Bars with Adjustable Width for Safety Eyewear
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[138] Now referring to the FIGS. 36-42, an embodiment of the safety eyewear
100 of the
instant invention having temple bars 600, 620 with adjustable width is
illustrated and generally
indicated. As will hereinafter be more fully described, the eyewear 100
includes a frame 110 and
temple bars 600, 620 hingedly connected to the frame 110 using a novel and
unique hinge
assembly 640 for adjusting the width of the temple bars 600, 620. The hinge
assembly 640
provides for a ratcheting adjustment for the inward angle of the temple bars
600, 620 in the
folded out position. By providing for ratchet adjustment of the width of the
temple bars 600,
620, the temple bars 600, 620 can properly be fitted to securely and
comfortably accommodate a
head of a user.
[139] Turning now to FIGS. 36-42, one of the unique features of the safety
eyewear 100 of
the present invention is the ability of the temple bars 600, 620 to be
ratchedly adjusted for
various widths. To allow for ratcheting adjustment, the hinge assembly 640
hingedly or
pivotally connects the temple bar 600, 620 to the frame 110. The hinge
assembly 640 includes a
hinge barrel 643, an adjustment badge 642, and a setting interlock 644. In a
preferred
embodiment, the hinge assembly 640 is hingedly connected to a side edge of the
frame 110.
However, it is contemplated that the hinge assembly 640 can be hingedly
connected to any part
of the frame 110 suitable for allowing for ratcheting adjustment of at least
one temple bar 600,
620.
[140] The hinge barrel 643 is hingedly connected to a proximal end of the at
least one temple
bar 600. The hinge barrel 643 is received within a pivot area defined within
an inner surface of
the proximal end of the temple bar 600, 602. The hinge barrel 643 is
integrally formed with a
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frame connection portion which is configured to attach to the frame 110. Once
the hinge barrel
643 is fixedly attached to the frame 110, preferably a side edge of the frame
110, the temple bar
600, 602 will pivot about the hinge barrel 643 to provide inward movement of
the temple bar
600, 620. The hinge barrel 643 also defines a stop for preventing outward
movement of the
temple bar 600, 620 beyond a certain angle relative to the frame 110.
[141] An adjustment badge 642, shown with a logo, defines a generally
rectangular shape and
includes an inward flange 642A configured for positioning within an adjustment
badge area
defined within an outer surface of the proximal end of the temple bar 600,
620. The inner
surface of the temple bar 600, 620 defines an aperture 600A to accommodate the
slidable
movement of the inward flange 642A forward and rearward. The inward flange
642A is also
configured for attachment to the setting interlock 644 positioned on the inner
surface area of the
proximal end of the temple bar 600, 620. The inward flange 64A, in one
embodiment, has
opposed raised areas on its outer end to facilitate a snap-fit with the distal
end of the setting
interlock 644. The setting interlock 644 is configured to move forward or
rearward in correlation
with movement of the adjustment badge 642 by a user.
[142] The proximal end of the setting interlock 644 defines a series of snap
adjustment
apertures 644A-C for a snap-fit with a snap protrusion 600B defined within the
inner surface of
the temple bar 600, 620. Each snap adjustment aperture 644 A-C defines at
least one setting of
range of inward pivotal movement of the temple bar 600, 620 about the hinge
barrel 643. Each
setting or position of the setting interlock 644 provides an inward angular
adjustment of the
temple bar approximately 5.5 degrees. Of course, the setting interlock 644 may
be configured
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for a different angular adjustment per snap-fit with a snap protrusion by more
than or less than
5.5 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, there are three snap adjustment
apertures for three
different settings or positions, but it should be understood that more than or
less then three
different settings may be used. By ratcheting the snap adjustment apertures
644A-C over the
snap protrusion 600B at different settings, the distal end of the setting
interlock 644 moves
between the hinge barrel 643 and the inner surface of the temple bar 600, 620
which increases or
decreases the range of inward movement of the temple bar 600, 620 about the
hinge barrel 643.
[143] The invention utilizes multi-shot molding techniques. In one embodiment,
the temple bar
600, 620 is made by a dual shot with a wire core insert for hingedly connected
to a side edge of
the frame. Also, a back cover 645 may be attached to the inner surface of the
temple bar 600,
620 to retain and protect the hinge assembly 640.
[144] In operation, when the adjustment badge 642 moves forward, it decreases
the range of
inward pivotal movement of the at least one temple bar 600, 620. When the
adjustment badge
moves forward, it moves the setting interlock 644 forward, which in turn
ratchets the snap
adjustment apertures 644A-C over the snap protrusion 600B forward. The setting
interlock 644,
by moving forward, further positions itself between the hinge barrel 643 and
the inner surface of
the temple bar 600, 620 to reduce or decrease the range of inward pivotal
movement of the
temple bar 600, 620. For example, for a small head adjustment, the adjustment
badge 642 moves
forward to decrease the range of inward pivotal movement of the at least one
temple bar 600,
620.
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[145] When the adjustment badge 642 moves rearward, it increases the range of
inward pivotal
movement of said at least one temple bar 600, 620. When the adjustment badge
642 moves
rearward, it moves the setting interlock 644 rearward, which in turn ratchets
the snap adjustment
apertures 644A-C over the snap protrusion 600B rearward. The setting interlock
644, by moving
rearward, removes itself from between the hinge barrel 43 and the inner
surface of the temple bar
600, 620 to increase the range of inward pivotal movement of the temple bar
600, 620. In
another example, for a large head adjustment, the adjustment badge 642 moves
rearward to
increase the range of inward pivotal movement of the at least one temple bar.
[146] Therefore, it can be seen that the present invention provides a unique
solution to the
problem of providing eyewear 100 which includes a hinge assembly 640 to
provides for
ratcheting adjustment of the width between temple bars 600, 620. By providing
for ratcheting
adjustment of the width, the temple bars 600, 620 can properly be fitted to
accommodate a head
of user with various widths.
[147] Referring to FIGS. 43-63, the eyewear 100B-D of the present invention
may also include
one or more of the following elements: a nose piece structure with multiple
axes of adjustment, a
horizontal ledge defined within a lens of the safety eyewear for attaching a
nose piece structure,
a wicking device attached to the safety eyewear to remove or absorb
perspiration, a coloration or
tinting of an outer peripheral edge of a lens for indicating a performance
characteristic of safety
eyewear or a lens and selected absorption of visible wavelengths of light,
temple bars of the
safety eyewear having adjustable width, alone or in combination thereof. The
illustrations in
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FIGS. 43-63 generally show some of the elements listed above but it should be
noted that a
single element or a combination of the elements above may be within the
eyewear 100.
[148] For example, the eyewear may include wire or metal core temples, soft
pliable temple
tips, and a ratchet mechanism for inclination of the eyewear to accommodate
facial fit. It should
be noted that the utility features referred to above can be employed on any
type of eyewear. In a
preferred embodiment, the eyewear is safety eyewear. The eyewear may be made
of all plastic,
selected metals, a combination of metal and plastic, or other relevant
materials.
[149] In summary, the safety eyewear of the present invention includes a nose
piece structure
with multiple axes of adjustment, a horizontal ledge defined within a lens of
the safety eyewear
for attaching a nose piece structure, a wicking device attached to the safety
eyewear to remove or
absorb perspiration, a coloration or tinting of an outer peripheral edge of a
lens for indicating a
performance characteristic of safety eyewear or a lens and selected absorption
of visible
wavelengths of light, temple bars of the safety eyewear having adjustable
width, alone or in
combination thereof.
[150] It would be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes
and modifications
can be made to the illustrated embodiments without departing from the spirit
of the present
invention. All such modifications and changes are intended to be within the
scope of the present
invention.
