CA2289874C - Eyesight protection apparatus with attached earplugs - Google Patents
Eyesight protection apparatus with attached earplugs Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2289874C CA2289874C CA002289874A CA2289874A CA2289874C CA 2289874 C CA2289874 C CA 2289874C CA 002289874 A CA002289874 A CA 002289874A CA 2289874 A CA2289874 A CA 2289874A CA 2289874 C CA2289874 C CA 2289874C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- attached
- earplug
- human
- temple
- eyesight
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C5/00—Constructions of non-optical parts
- G02C5/14—Side-members
- G02C5/143—Side-members having special ear pieces
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F11/00—Methods or devices for treatment of the ears or hearing sense; Non-electric hearing aids; Methods or devices for enabling ear patients to achieve auditory perception through physiological senses other than hearing sense; Protective devices for the ears, carried on the body or in the hand
- A61F11/06—Protective devices for the ears
- A61F11/08—Protective devices for the ears internal, e.g. earplugs
- A61F11/12—External mounting means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F9/00—Methods or devices for treatment of the eyes; Devices for putting-in contact lenses; Devices to correct squinting; Apparatus to guide the blind; Protective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand
- A61F9/02—Goggles
- A61F9/029—Additional functions or features, e.g. protection for other parts of the face such as ears, nose or mouth; Screen wipers or cleaning devices
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C11/00—Non-optical adjuncts; Attachment thereof
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C3/00—Special supporting arrangements for lens assemblies or monocles
- G02C3/003—Arrangements for fitting and securing to the head in the position of use
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C5/00—Constructions of non-optical parts
- G02C5/02—Bridges; Browbars; Intermediate bars
- G02C5/06—Bridges; Browbars; Intermediate bars with resilient means
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C5/00—Constructions of non-optical parts
- G02C5/14—Side-members
- G02C5/146—Side-members having special front end
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C5/00—Constructions of non-optical parts
- G02C5/14—Side-members
- G02C5/20—Side-members adjustable, e.g. telescopic
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C2200/00—Generic mechanical aspects applicable to one or more of the groups G02C1/00 - G02C5/00 and G02C9/00 - G02C13/00 and their subgroups
- G02C2200/08—Modular frames, easily exchangeable frame parts and lenses
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C2200/00—Generic mechanical aspects applicable to one or more of the groups G02C1/00 - G02C5/00 and G02C9/00 - G02C13/00 and their subgroups
- G02C2200/16—Frame or frame portions made from rubber
Abstract
An eyesight and hearing safety apparatus (20) for use by a human being. The apparatus comprises a front guard portion (22) including a front transparent panel for protecting the eyesight of the human being. The apparatus further comprises a first and a second earplug (38 and 40) for protecting the hearing of the human being. The apparatus further comprises a first temple having a first attachment end and a first support end. The first attachment end is hingedly attached to one end of the front guard portion. The first earplug is attached to the first temple adjacent the first support end. The first temple and the first earplug support the front guard portion from a respective auditory canal when the human being is wearing the apparatus. The apparatus further comprises a second temple having a second attachment end and a second support end. The second attachment end is hingedly attached to the other end of the front guard portion. The second earplug is attached to the second temple adjacent the second support end. The second temple and the second earplug support the front guard portion from a respective auditory canal when the human being is wearing the apparatus. The first and second temples may be adjustable to horizontally and vertically position the respective earplug for comfortable insertion into the respective auditory canal of the human being.
Description
Eyesight Protection Apparatus with Attached Earplugs BACKGROUND OF THE INTENTION
The present inve:ntion relates, in general, to safety devices, and in particular, to devices which protect the eyesight and hearing of a human being from injury.
It is often desired to protect the eyes of a human being from being injured by flying debris at the workplace a.-~d to protect the hearing of a human being from being injured due to exces~;ive noise at the workplace. Well-known solutions for this problem include providing separate safety glasses and earplugs. A problem occurs because a human being, such as an employee, can use only one protection device: when both are needed for proper protection in the work environment. Other well-known solutions for this problem include providing safety glasses with earplug~~ attached to the safety glasses in some manner. The problem with these solutions is that a 2o human being can wear the safety glasses without using the earplugs, thus, causing damage to his or her hearing. As an example, Leight, L7.S. Patent No. 3,943,925 provides a hearing protector as~;embly which can be attached to safety glasses. The protector assembly can be completely removed from the safety glasses, and in addition the assembly includes a brake (70) which can hold the earplug away from the ear.
It is therefore desirable to have an eyesight and hearing safety device: which by design requires a human being to use both safety glasses and earplugs, thus, protecting the eyes and the hearing of the human being from harm.
Some of th.e following references may also be relevant W0~98/55894 PCT/US98/09044 to the present invention: Malcom, U.S. Patent No.
The present inve:ntion relates, in general, to safety devices, and in particular, to devices which protect the eyesight and hearing of a human being from injury.
It is often desired to protect the eyes of a human being from being injured by flying debris at the workplace a.-~d to protect the hearing of a human being from being injured due to exces~;ive noise at the workplace. Well-known solutions for this problem include providing separate safety glasses and earplugs. A problem occurs because a human being, such as an employee, can use only one protection device: when both are needed for proper protection in the work environment. Other well-known solutions for this problem include providing safety glasses with earplug~~ attached to the safety glasses in some manner. The problem with these solutions is that a 2o human being can wear the safety glasses without using the earplugs, thus, causing damage to his or her hearing. As an example, Leight, L7.S. Patent No. 3,943,925 provides a hearing protector as~;embly which can be attached to safety glasses. The protector assembly can be completely removed from the safety glasses, and in addition the assembly includes a brake (70) which can hold the earplug away from the ear.
It is therefore desirable to have an eyesight and hearing safety device: which by design requires a human being to use both safety glasses and earplugs, thus, protecting the eyes and the hearing of the human being from harm.
Some of th.e following references may also be relevant W0~98/55894 PCT/US98/09044 to the present invention: Malcom, U.S. Patent No.
3,384,903, issued May 28, 1968; Davis, U.S. Patent No.
3,620,608, issued November 16, 1971; Leight, U.S. Patent No. 3,943,925, issued March 16, 1976; Walters et al., U.S.
Patent No. 4,153,348, issued May 8, 1979; Andersson, U.S.
Patent No. 4,671,265, issued June 9, 1987; Sonthonnax, U.S. Patent No. 4,848,892, issued July 18, 1989; Kahaney, U.S. Patent No. 4,955,708, issued September 11, 1990;
Grozil, U.S. Patent No. 5,074,375, issued December 24, l0 1991; Pyle, U.S. Patent No. 5,475,449, issued December 22, 1995; and Huhtala, U.S. Patent No. 5,541,677, issued July 30, 1996. None of these references, either singly or in combination, disclose or suggest the present invention.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is an eyesight and hearing safety apparatus for use by a human being. The apparatus comprises a front guard portion, a first and a second earplug, and a first and a second temple. The front guard portion includes a front transparent panel for protecting the eyesight of the human being and a bridge portion for supporting the front guard portion. The front guard portion has a left front guard portion end and a right front guard portion end. The first and second earplugs are for supporting the front guard portion from a respective auditory canal when the human being is wearing the apparatus to protect the eyesight and hearing of the human being. The first temple has a first attachment end and a first support end. The first attachment end is attached to the left front guard portion end. The first earplug is attached to the first temple, adjacent the first support end. The second temple has a second attachment end and a second support end. The second attachment end is attached to the right front guard portion end. The second earplug is attached to the second temple, adjacent said second support end. The bridge portion, the first earplug, and the second earplug provide the only means of supporting the front guard portion when the human being is wearing the apparatus to protect the eyesight and hearing of the human being.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an eyesight and hearing safety apparatus which requires a human being to use both eyesight and hearing protection while wearing t:he apparatus .
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an eye:;ight and hearing safety apparatus which can be firmly secured in place so that the human being can be very physicall~~ active while wearing the apparatus.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
Fig. 1 is a per:apective view of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the front guard portion.
Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a first temple and of ~~ first: side transparent panel.
Fig. 4 is a different perspective view of the portion of the first temple :>hown in Fig. 3.
Fig. 5 is a per:>pective view of another portion of the first temple shooan adjusted to a first vertical position.
Fig. SA i~~ a perspective view of the other portion of 3o the first temple shown adjusted to a second vertical position.
Fig. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of a first and a second earplug and suspending means.
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of a second temple and of a second side transparent panel.
Fig. 8 is a different perspective view of the portion of the second temple shown in Fig. 7.
Fig. 9 is a perspective view of another portion of the second temple shown adjusted to a first vertical position.
Fig. 9A is a perspective view of the other portion of the second temple shown adjusted to a second vertical position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to Figs. 1-9A, the present invention is seen to compriae an .eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20. Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, eyesight and hearing 5 safety apparatus 20 .is seen to comprise a front guard portion 22 having a .left front guard portion end 24 and a right front gu~3rd portion end 26. The front guard portion 22 includes a :Front 'transparent panel 28 for protecting the eyesight o:E a hwnan being. The front transparent panel 28 is preferably constructed from a well known clear plastic material suitable for viewing therethrough. The front guard portion 22 includes a well known bridge portion 30 for supporting the front guard portion 22 on the nose of a human ldeing. The front guard portion 22 preferably includes ,an elongated resilient member 32. The front transpar~=_nt pa:nel 28 is disposed adjacent to the elongated resilient member 32 and is preferably attached to the elongate=d resilient member 32. The elongated resilient member 32 is preferably constructed in the shape of a curve and includes the well known bridge portion 30 depending therefrom. The bottom surface of the elongated resilient member 32 :has a first groove (hidden) and the top surface of the bridge portion 30 has a second groove (hidden). The first and second grooves are for securing the front transparent panel 28 as is well known in the art. The elongated resilient member 32 preferably includes the left front guard portion end 24 and the right front guard portion end 26. Further details concerning the construction and operation of the elongated resilient member 32 will be described in a following section.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 6, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 is seen to further comprise a first earplug 38 and a second earplug 40 for supporting the front guard portion 22 from a respective auditory canal when the human being is wearing the apparatus 20 to protect the eyesight and hearing of the human being. The first and second earplugs 38, 40 are preferably constructed to each have multiple curved elements 42 for snugly engaging the auditory canal. The diameter of each curved element 42 decreases as the particular curved element 42 is located closer to the end which first engages the auditory canal. Each earplug 38, 40 preferably further includes an attachment stem 43 for l0 attaching the earplugs 38, 40 to the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20. Each earplug 38, 40 is preferably constructed from a well known rubber material.
Referring to Fig. 1, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 is seen to further comprise a first temple 44 having a first attachment end 46 and a first support end 48. The first attachment end 46 is attached to the left front guard portion end 24, preferably by well known hinge means, such as first hinge 50. The first earplug 38 is 2o attached to the first temple 44, preferably adjacent the first support end 48. The first temple 44 is constructed to have a shape so that the first earplug 38 can be inserted into the left auditory canal of the human being and so that the first earplug 38 will support the front guard portion 22 when inserted into the left auditory canal of the human being.
Referring to Fig. 1, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 is seen to further comprise a second temple 52 having a second attachment end 54 and a second support end 56. The second attachment end 54 is attached to the right front guard portion end 26, preferably by well known hinge means, such as second hinge 58. The second earplug is attached to the second temple 52, preferably 35 adjacent the second support end 56. The second temple 52 is constructed to have a shape so that the second earplug 40 can be inserted into the right auditory canal of the human being arc. so that the second earplug 40 will support the front guard: portion 22 when inserted into the right auditory canal of the: human being.
The first and second earplugs 38, 40 and the bridge portion 30 coo~~erate to support the front guard portion 22 on the head of the human being. The bridge portion 30 l0 supports the front guard portion 22 on the nose of the human being. When inserted into the left auditory canal, the first earplug 38 supports the first temple 44, preferably adjacent the first support end 48. The first temple 44 is attached) to the left front guard portion end 24 so that the first earplug 38 supports the left side of the front guard) portion 22. Similarly, the second earplug 40 supports the: second temple 52, preferably adjacent the second support end 5E.. The second temple 52 is attached to the right front guard portion end 26 so that the second 2o earplug 40 supF~orts t:he right side of the front guard portion 22.
Preferable, the first and second temples 44, 52 are formed so that the first and second support ends 48, 56 are laterally dlisplac;ed towards each other, so that the first and second support ends 48, 56 are displaced lower than the respecaive first and second attachment ends 46, 54, and so that: the first and second support ends 48, 56 are angled slightly upward to facilitate in placing the first 38 and second 4~0 earplugs into the respective auditory canal of the: human being.
Referring to Fic~s. 1 and 2, the elongated resilient member 32, preferably allows the front guard portion 22 to flex slightly outward in response to an applied outward pressure while the apparatus 20 is being placed on or removed from the head of the human being. While on the head of the human being, the elongated resilient member 32 creates an inward pressure respectively at the left and right front guard portion ends 24, 26, and this inward pressure is transmitted along the first and second temples 44, 52 to comfortably secure the first and second earplugs 38, 40 in the respective auditory canal. The elongated resilient member 32 is preferably constructed from a well l0 known resilient material, such as, for example, plastic.
Preferably, the bridge portion 30, the first earplug 38, and the second earplug 40 provide the only means of supporting the front. guard portion 22 when the human being is wearing the apparatus 20 to protect the eyesight and hearing of the human being. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 does not require the temples 44, 52 to include portions to support the apparatus 20 on the top of the ears, nor does the apparatus 20 require a strap to support the apparatus 20 around the back of the head of the human being. If the first and second earplugs 38, 40 are removed and the apparatus 20 is worn by the human being, the first and second support ends 48, 56 will apply an uncomfortable pressure against the ears of the human being, thus, deterring wearing of the apparatus 20 without the first and second earplugs 38, 40. Additionally, without the first and second earplugs 38, 40, the front guard portion 22 will not be firmly secured in place as will be the case when the first and second earplugs 38, 40 3o are inserted into the respective auditory canals of the human being.
Referring to Figs. 1, 5, and 6 the first temple 44 preferably includes a first means of attaching the first earplug 38 to the first temple 44. The first means of attaching preferably comprises a first aperture 60 extending through the first temple 44 adjacent the first support end 48. The first aperture 60 preferably has a first slot 62 through which the attachment stem 43 of the first earplug 3B can :be forced so that it is secured in the first aperture 60. While secured in the first aperture 60, the first earplug 38 is preferably attached to the first temple 44 at a fixed first predetermined location of attachment along a length of the first temple 44. The first earplug 38 is preferably attached to the first temple 44 to have a position which is substantially non-adjustable along the length of the first temple 44 with respect to the first predetermined location of attachment.
Once the first earplug 38 is secured in the first aperture 60, the first earplug 38 can be removed by forcing the attachment stem 43 of the first earplug 38 through the first slot 62 in the opposite direction. The removed first earplug 38 can then be cleaned or replaced as is necessary. The first means of attaching could comprise other well known means for attaching the first earplug 38 to the first temple 44 such as, for, example, a screw or an end plug extending through the first aperture 60 and into the first earplug 38.
Referring to Fig's. 1, 6, and 9 the second temple 52 preferably includes a second means of attaching the second earplug 40 to the second temple 52. The second means of 30- attaching preferably comprises a second aperture 64 extending through the second temple 52 adjacent the second support end 56. The second aperture 64 preferably has a second slot 65 through which the attachment stem 43 of the second earplug 40 can be forced so that it is secured in the second aperture 6.4. While secured in the second aperture 64, the second earplug 40 is preferably attached to the second temple 52 at a fixed second predetermined location of attachment along a length of the second temple 52. The second earplug 40 is preferably attached to the 5 second temple 52 to have a position which is substantially non-adjustable along the length of the second temple 52 with respect to the second predetermined location of attachment.
1o Once the second earplug 40 is secured in the second aperture 64, the second earplug 40 can be removed by forcing the attachment stem 43 of the second earplug 40 through the second slot 65 in the opposite direction. The removed second earplug 40 can then be cleaned or replaced as is necessary. The second means of attaching could comprise other well known means for attaching the second earplug 40 to the second temple 52 such as, for, example, a screw or an end plug extending through the second aperture 64 and into the second earplug 40.
Referring to Figs. 1, 3, and 4, the first temple 44 preferably includes first horizontal adjustment means 66 for horizontally adjusting the first earplug 38 to a selected horizontal position. First horizontal adjustment means 66 preferably includes a first front temple portion 68. The first front temple portion 68 has an end which serves as the first attachment end 46 of the first temple 44. The first front temple portion 68 is preferably constructed in the shape of a sleeve having a rectangular 3o cross section. The first front temple portion 68 has a first receiving end 70 and a first channel 72 extending longitudinally from the first receiving end 70 and into the interior of the first front temple portion 68.
Referring to Fig. 4, a first outward side 74 of the first front temple portion 68 has a first hole 76 extending therethrough. First horizontal adjustment means 66 preferably furt:her includes a first resilient member 78 having a first resil_Lent member attachment end 80 and a first resilient: membE:r tab end B2. The first resilient member attachment end 80 is attached to the first outward side 74 of the first front temple portion 68, adjacent the first attachment end 46. Fig. 3 shows the first resilient member 78 in it:s nornnal in-use position, while Fig. 4 shows the first: resi7Lient member 78 in a lifted position.
to The first resi7.ient member 78 includes a first pin 84 which removably extends through the first hole 76. The first resilient: membE:r 78 includes a first tab 86 adjacent the first resi7.ient naember tab end 82. The first pin 84 can be retracted from the first hole 76 by lifting the first tab 86 away from the first outward side 74 of the first front temple portion 68 as shown in Fig. 4. The first resilient: membE:r 78 is constructed from a well known resilient material, such as a resilient plastic or metal.
2o Referring to Fic~. 5, the first temple 44 preferably includes a first real- temple portion 88 including a first arm 90 having ~~ first: arm end 92 being connected to a first deformab7.e shape retaining member 94 at the first arm end 92. Tree first deformable shape retaining member 94 preferably includes the first support end 48 and is attached to thE~ first: earplug 38 (shown in Fig. 1) . First horizontal adjustment: means 66 preferably includes the first arm 90, and the first arm 90 is sized for receipt into the first channE:l 72 (shown in Fig. 3). The first arm 90 has a first plurality of apertures 96 for selectively rec:eivinc~ the first pin 84 (shown in Fig. 4) to horizontally position the first earplug 38 (shown in Fig. 2 ) . Referring t:o Figs . 1, 3, 4, and 5, the horizontal position of the first earplug 38 can be changed by first lifting the first tab 86 to retract the first pin 84 from the first hole 76 and one of the first plurality of apertures 96. Next, the horizontal position of the first earplug 38 can be changed so that another one of the first plurality of apertures 96 is aligned with the first hole 76. Finally, the first tab B6 is released, the first pin 84 is forced into the selected one of the first plurality of apertures 96 by the first resilient member 78, and the first earplug 38 is secured into the selected horizontal position.
Referring to Figs. 1, 5, and 5A, the first temple 44 preferably includes first vertical adjustment means 98 for vertically adjusting the first earplug 38 to a selected vertical position. First vertical adjustment means 98 preferably includes the first deformable shape retaining member 94 which is selectively adjustable to vertically position the first earplug 38. The first deformable shape retaining member 94 is preferably constructed by including a first wire 100 inside a flexible material, such as a 2o suitable plastic or rubber material. The first deformable shape retaining member 94 is attached to the first arm end 92. The first arm 90 and the first deformable shape retaining member 94 form the first rear temple portion 88 which preferably has a shape substantially in the form of an S or Z. Notably, the first deformable shape retaining member 94 is preferably constructed laterally inwardly with respect to the first arm 90. The first deformable shape retaining member 94 can be can be vertically adjusted to selectively vertically position the first earplug 38 by applying sufficient force to the first deformable shape retaining member 94 in the desired vertical direction. The first deformable shape retaining member 94 will remain in the vertically adjusted position until sufficient force is applied to position the first deformable shape retaining member 94 to a different vertical position. Figs. 5 and 5A show the first deformable shape retaining member 94 adjusted to two different vertical positions.
Referring to Fic~s. 1, 7, and 8, the second temple 52 preferably inc7.udes :>econd horizontal adjustment means 102 for horizontal7.y adjusting the second earplug 40 to a selected horizontal position. Second horizontal adjustment means 102 preferably includes a second front temple portion 104. The second front temple portion 104 has an end which serves as the second attachment end 54 of the second temple 52.. The second front temple portion 104 is preferably c:onstructed in the shape of a sleeve having a rectangular cross section. The second front temple portion 104 ha:> a second receiving end 106 and a second channel 108 ext:endinc~ longitudinally from the second receiving end 1.06 and into the interior of the second front temple portion 104. Referring to Fig. 8, a second outward side 11.0 of t:he second front temple portion 104 has a second hale 11:? extending therethrough. Second horizontal adjustment= means 102 preferably further includes a second re:>ilient member 114 having a second resilient member attachment end 116 and a second resilient member tab end 118. The second resilient member attachment end 116 is attached to the second outward side 110 of the second front temple portion 104, adjacent the second attachmE:nt end 54. Fig. 7 shows the second resilient member 114 in its normal in-use position, while Fig. 8 shows the second resilient member 114 in a lifted position. The second resilient member 114 includes a second pin 120 which removably extends through the second hole 112. The second resilient member 114 includes a second tab 122 adjacESnt the second resilient member tab end 118. The :second pin 120 can be retracted from the second hole 11:? by lifting the second tab 122 away from the second outward side 110 of the second front temple portion 104 as shown in Fig. 8. The second resilient member 114 is constructed from a well known resilient material, such as a resilient plastic or metal.
Referring to Fig. 9, the second temple 52 preferably includes a second rear temple portion 124 including a second arm 126 having a second arm end 128 being connected to a second deformable shape retaining member 130 at the second arm end 128. The second deformable shape retaining member 130 preferably includes the second support end 56 and is attached to the second earplug 40 (shown in Fig.
1). Second horizontal adjustment means 102 preferably includes the second arm 126, and the second arm 126 is sized for receipt into the second channel 108 (shown in Fig. 7). The second arm 126 has a second plurality of apertures 132 for selectively receiving the second pin 120 (shown in Fig. 8) to horizontally position the second earplug 40 (shown in Fig 1). Referring to Figs. 1, 7, 8, and 9, the horizontal position of the second earplug 40 can be changed by first lifting the second tab 122 to retract the second pin 120 from the second hole 112 and one of the second plurality of apertures 132. Next, the horizontal position of the second earplug 40 can be changed so that another one of the second plurality of apertures 132 is aligned with the second hole I12.
Finally, the second tab 122 is released, the second pin 120 is forced into the selected one of the second plurality of apertures 132 by the second resilient member 114, and the second earplug 40 is secured into the selected horizontal position.
Referring to Figs. 1, 9, and 9A, the second temple 52 preferably includes second vertical adjustment means 134 for vertically adjusting the second earplug 40 to a selected vertic:al po;>ition. Second vertical adjustment means 134 preferably includes the second deformable shape retaining member 130 which is selectively adjustable to vertically position t:he second earplug 40. The second 5 deformable shape retaining member 130 is preferably constructed by including a second wire 136 inside a flexible material, such as a suitable plastic or rubber material. The second deformable shape retaining member 130 is attached to the second arm end 128. The second arm l0 126 and the second deformable shape retaining member 130 form the second rear temple portion 124 which preferably has a shape sux>stantially in the form of an S or Z.
Notably, the second deformable shape retaining member 130 is preferably constructed laterally inwardly with respect 15 to the second arm 12E>. The second deformable shape retaining member 130 can be can be vertically adjusted to selectively po:cition the second earplug 40 by applying sufficient force to t:he second deformable shape retaining member 130 in t:he desired vertical direction. The second 2o deformable shad>e retaining member 130 will remain in the vertically adjusted position until sufficient force is applied to position t:he second deformable shape retaining member 130 to a~ diffE:rent vertical position. Figs. 9 and 9A show the second deformable shape retaining member 130 adjusted to two different vertical positions.
The first and second temples 44, 52 can be adjusted by using the respective horizontal adjustment means 66, 102 and the re~~pective vertical adjustment means 98, 134.
3o In this manner, the first and second earplugs 38, 40 can be positioned t:o be secured in the auditory canals of human beings with different sized and shaped heads. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 will be securely held in place amd thE: human being can be very physically active .
WO 98/55894 PCT/Z.1S98/09044 Referring to Figs. 1 and 3, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 preferably includes a first side transparent panel 138 being disposed adjacent the first temple 44 and preferably being attached to the first front temple portion 68 by means well known in the art.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 7, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 preferably includes a second side transparent panel 140 being disposed adjacent the second temple 52 and preferably being attached to the second l0 front temple portion 104 by means well known in the art.
The first and second side transparent panels 138, 140 are preferably constructed from a well known clear plastic material suitable for viewing therethrough.
Referring to Fig. 6, each earplug 38, 40 preferably includes a ball 142 being attached at one end to the attachment stem 43 and having an earplug aperture 144 at the other end. The earplug aperture 144 leads to a reception cavity (hidden) constructed inside the ball 142.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 6, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 preferably includes suspending means 148 for suspending the apparatus 20 from the neck of a human being. Suspending means 148 preferably comprises an elongated securing tiepiece 150. The elongated securing tiepiece 150 is preferably constructed from rubber, but, may be constructed from woven fibers, leather, plastic, or any other well known suitable material. Suspending means 148 includes detaching means 152 for detaching suspending means 148 from the apparatus 20 in response to an applied force. Detaching means 152 preferably comprises a first retaining element 154 attached to one end of the elongated securing tiepiece 150 and a second retaining element 156 attached to the other end of the elongated securing tiepiece 150. The first and second retaining elements WO-98/55894 PCTlUS98/09044 154, 156 are constru<aed to be removably received into the earplug aperture 144 and reception cavity of each respective earplug 3f3, 40. When the first and second retaining elemE~nts 154, 156 are received in the respective reception cavil=ies, t=he eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 can be removed from the head of the human being, and the human being can suspend the apparatus 20 from his or her neck., If the apparatus 20 should accidentally be=come caught in a piece of machinery, one or both of the rei:aininc~ elements 154, 156 will be removed from the respecaive reception cavity due to the force of the machinery pulling on the apparatus 20. In this manner, injury that could be caused by the machinery is prevented. The, first. and second retaining elements 154, 156 can be constructed from well known materials such as rubber or plasi=ic.
Although l.he pre=sent invention has been described and illustrated wii~h respect to a preferred embodiment and a preferred use i:herefo r, it is not to be so limited since modifications and changes can be made therein which are within the ful_L intended scope of the invention.
3,620,608, issued November 16, 1971; Leight, U.S. Patent No. 3,943,925, issued March 16, 1976; Walters et al., U.S.
Patent No. 4,153,348, issued May 8, 1979; Andersson, U.S.
Patent No. 4,671,265, issued June 9, 1987; Sonthonnax, U.S. Patent No. 4,848,892, issued July 18, 1989; Kahaney, U.S. Patent No. 4,955,708, issued September 11, 1990;
Grozil, U.S. Patent No. 5,074,375, issued December 24, l0 1991; Pyle, U.S. Patent No. 5,475,449, issued December 22, 1995; and Huhtala, U.S. Patent No. 5,541,677, issued July 30, 1996. None of these references, either singly or in combination, disclose or suggest the present invention.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is an eyesight and hearing safety apparatus for use by a human being. The apparatus comprises a front guard portion, a first and a second earplug, and a first and a second temple. The front guard portion includes a front transparent panel for protecting the eyesight of the human being and a bridge portion for supporting the front guard portion. The front guard portion has a left front guard portion end and a right front guard portion end. The first and second earplugs are for supporting the front guard portion from a respective auditory canal when the human being is wearing the apparatus to protect the eyesight and hearing of the human being. The first temple has a first attachment end and a first support end. The first attachment end is attached to the left front guard portion end. The first earplug is attached to the first temple, adjacent the first support end. The second temple has a second attachment end and a second support end. The second attachment end is attached to the right front guard portion end. The second earplug is attached to the second temple, adjacent said second support end. The bridge portion, the first earplug, and the second earplug provide the only means of supporting the front guard portion when the human being is wearing the apparatus to protect the eyesight and hearing of the human being.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an eyesight and hearing safety apparatus which requires a human being to use both eyesight and hearing protection while wearing t:he apparatus .
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an eye:;ight and hearing safety apparatus which can be firmly secured in place so that the human being can be very physicall~~ active while wearing the apparatus.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
Fig. 1 is a per:apective view of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the front guard portion.
Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a first temple and of ~~ first: side transparent panel.
Fig. 4 is a different perspective view of the portion of the first temple :>hown in Fig. 3.
Fig. 5 is a per:>pective view of another portion of the first temple shooan adjusted to a first vertical position.
Fig. SA i~~ a perspective view of the other portion of 3o the first temple shown adjusted to a second vertical position.
Fig. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of a first and a second earplug and suspending means.
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of a second temple and of a second side transparent panel.
Fig. 8 is a different perspective view of the portion of the second temple shown in Fig. 7.
Fig. 9 is a perspective view of another portion of the second temple shown adjusted to a first vertical position.
Fig. 9A is a perspective view of the other portion of the second temple shown adjusted to a second vertical position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to Figs. 1-9A, the present invention is seen to compriae an .eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20. Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, eyesight and hearing 5 safety apparatus 20 .is seen to comprise a front guard portion 22 having a .left front guard portion end 24 and a right front gu~3rd portion end 26. The front guard portion 22 includes a :Front 'transparent panel 28 for protecting the eyesight o:E a hwnan being. The front transparent panel 28 is preferably constructed from a well known clear plastic material suitable for viewing therethrough. The front guard portion 22 includes a well known bridge portion 30 for supporting the front guard portion 22 on the nose of a human ldeing. The front guard portion 22 preferably includes ,an elongated resilient member 32. The front transpar~=_nt pa:nel 28 is disposed adjacent to the elongated resilient member 32 and is preferably attached to the elongate=d resilient member 32. The elongated resilient member 32 is preferably constructed in the shape of a curve and includes the well known bridge portion 30 depending therefrom. The bottom surface of the elongated resilient member 32 :has a first groove (hidden) and the top surface of the bridge portion 30 has a second groove (hidden). The first and second grooves are for securing the front transparent panel 28 as is well known in the art. The elongated resilient member 32 preferably includes the left front guard portion end 24 and the right front guard portion end 26. Further details concerning the construction and operation of the elongated resilient member 32 will be described in a following section.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 6, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 is seen to further comprise a first earplug 38 and a second earplug 40 for supporting the front guard portion 22 from a respective auditory canal when the human being is wearing the apparatus 20 to protect the eyesight and hearing of the human being. The first and second earplugs 38, 40 are preferably constructed to each have multiple curved elements 42 for snugly engaging the auditory canal. The diameter of each curved element 42 decreases as the particular curved element 42 is located closer to the end which first engages the auditory canal. Each earplug 38, 40 preferably further includes an attachment stem 43 for l0 attaching the earplugs 38, 40 to the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20. Each earplug 38, 40 is preferably constructed from a well known rubber material.
Referring to Fig. 1, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 is seen to further comprise a first temple 44 having a first attachment end 46 and a first support end 48. The first attachment end 46 is attached to the left front guard portion end 24, preferably by well known hinge means, such as first hinge 50. The first earplug 38 is 2o attached to the first temple 44, preferably adjacent the first support end 48. The first temple 44 is constructed to have a shape so that the first earplug 38 can be inserted into the left auditory canal of the human being and so that the first earplug 38 will support the front guard portion 22 when inserted into the left auditory canal of the human being.
Referring to Fig. 1, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 is seen to further comprise a second temple 52 having a second attachment end 54 and a second support end 56. The second attachment end 54 is attached to the right front guard portion end 26, preferably by well known hinge means, such as second hinge 58. The second earplug is attached to the second temple 52, preferably 35 adjacent the second support end 56. The second temple 52 is constructed to have a shape so that the second earplug 40 can be inserted into the right auditory canal of the human being arc. so that the second earplug 40 will support the front guard: portion 22 when inserted into the right auditory canal of the: human being.
The first and second earplugs 38, 40 and the bridge portion 30 coo~~erate to support the front guard portion 22 on the head of the human being. The bridge portion 30 l0 supports the front guard portion 22 on the nose of the human being. When inserted into the left auditory canal, the first earplug 38 supports the first temple 44, preferably adjacent the first support end 48. The first temple 44 is attached) to the left front guard portion end 24 so that the first earplug 38 supports the left side of the front guard) portion 22. Similarly, the second earplug 40 supports the: second temple 52, preferably adjacent the second support end 5E.. The second temple 52 is attached to the right front guard portion end 26 so that the second 2o earplug 40 supF~orts t:he right side of the front guard portion 22.
Preferable, the first and second temples 44, 52 are formed so that the first and second support ends 48, 56 are laterally dlisplac;ed towards each other, so that the first and second support ends 48, 56 are displaced lower than the respecaive first and second attachment ends 46, 54, and so that: the first and second support ends 48, 56 are angled slightly upward to facilitate in placing the first 38 and second 4~0 earplugs into the respective auditory canal of the: human being.
Referring to Fic~s. 1 and 2, the elongated resilient member 32, preferably allows the front guard portion 22 to flex slightly outward in response to an applied outward pressure while the apparatus 20 is being placed on or removed from the head of the human being. While on the head of the human being, the elongated resilient member 32 creates an inward pressure respectively at the left and right front guard portion ends 24, 26, and this inward pressure is transmitted along the first and second temples 44, 52 to comfortably secure the first and second earplugs 38, 40 in the respective auditory canal. The elongated resilient member 32 is preferably constructed from a well l0 known resilient material, such as, for example, plastic.
Preferably, the bridge portion 30, the first earplug 38, and the second earplug 40 provide the only means of supporting the front. guard portion 22 when the human being is wearing the apparatus 20 to protect the eyesight and hearing of the human being. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 does not require the temples 44, 52 to include portions to support the apparatus 20 on the top of the ears, nor does the apparatus 20 require a strap to support the apparatus 20 around the back of the head of the human being. If the first and second earplugs 38, 40 are removed and the apparatus 20 is worn by the human being, the first and second support ends 48, 56 will apply an uncomfortable pressure against the ears of the human being, thus, deterring wearing of the apparatus 20 without the first and second earplugs 38, 40. Additionally, without the first and second earplugs 38, 40, the front guard portion 22 will not be firmly secured in place as will be the case when the first and second earplugs 38, 40 3o are inserted into the respective auditory canals of the human being.
Referring to Figs. 1, 5, and 6 the first temple 44 preferably includes a first means of attaching the first earplug 38 to the first temple 44. The first means of attaching preferably comprises a first aperture 60 extending through the first temple 44 adjacent the first support end 48. The first aperture 60 preferably has a first slot 62 through which the attachment stem 43 of the first earplug 3B can :be forced so that it is secured in the first aperture 60. While secured in the first aperture 60, the first earplug 38 is preferably attached to the first temple 44 at a fixed first predetermined location of attachment along a length of the first temple 44. The first earplug 38 is preferably attached to the first temple 44 to have a position which is substantially non-adjustable along the length of the first temple 44 with respect to the first predetermined location of attachment.
Once the first earplug 38 is secured in the first aperture 60, the first earplug 38 can be removed by forcing the attachment stem 43 of the first earplug 38 through the first slot 62 in the opposite direction. The removed first earplug 38 can then be cleaned or replaced as is necessary. The first means of attaching could comprise other well known means for attaching the first earplug 38 to the first temple 44 such as, for, example, a screw or an end plug extending through the first aperture 60 and into the first earplug 38.
Referring to Fig's. 1, 6, and 9 the second temple 52 preferably includes a second means of attaching the second earplug 40 to the second temple 52. The second means of 30- attaching preferably comprises a second aperture 64 extending through the second temple 52 adjacent the second support end 56. The second aperture 64 preferably has a second slot 65 through which the attachment stem 43 of the second earplug 40 can be forced so that it is secured in the second aperture 6.4. While secured in the second aperture 64, the second earplug 40 is preferably attached to the second temple 52 at a fixed second predetermined location of attachment along a length of the second temple 52. The second earplug 40 is preferably attached to the 5 second temple 52 to have a position which is substantially non-adjustable along the length of the second temple 52 with respect to the second predetermined location of attachment.
1o Once the second earplug 40 is secured in the second aperture 64, the second earplug 40 can be removed by forcing the attachment stem 43 of the second earplug 40 through the second slot 65 in the opposite direction. The removed second earplug 40 can then be cleaned or replaced as is necessary. The second means of attaching could comprise other well known means for attaching the second earplug 40 to the second temple 52 such as, for, example, a screw or an end plug extending through the second aperture 64 and into the second earplug 40.
Referring to Figs. 1, 3, and 4, the first temple 44 preferably includes first horizontal adjustment means 66 for horizontally adjusting the first earplug 38 to a selected horizontal position. First horizontal adjustment means 66 preferably includes a first front temple portion 68. The first front temple portion 68 has an end which serves as the first attachment end 46 of the first temple 44. The first front temple portion 68 is preferably constructed in the shape of a sleeve having a rectangular 3o cross section. The first front temple portion 68 has a first receiving end 70 and a first channel 72 extending longitudinally from the first receiving end 70 and into the interior of the first front temple portion 68.
Referring to Fig. 4, a first outward side 74 of the first front temple portion 68 has a first hole 76 extending therethrough. First horizontal adjustment means 66 preferably furt:her includes a first resilient member 78 having a first resil_Lent member attachment end 80 and a first resilient: membE:r tab end B2. The first resilient member attachment end 80 is attached to the first outward side 74 of the first front temple portion 68, adjacent the first attachment end 46. Fig. 3 shows the first resilient member 78 in it:s nornnal in-use position, while Fig. 4 shows the first: resi7Lient member 78 in a lifted position.
to The first resi7.ient member 78 includes a first pin 84 which removably extends through the first hole 76. The first resilient: membE:r 78 includes a first tab 86 adjacent the first resi7.ient naember tab end 82. The first pin 84 can be retracted from the first hole 76 by lifting the first tab 86 away from the first outward side 74 of the first front temple portion 68 as shown in Fig. 4. The first resilient: membE:r 78 is constructed from a well known resilient material, such as a resilient plastic or metal.
2o Referring to Fic~. 5, the first temple 44 preferably includes a first real- temple portion 88 including a first arm 90 having ~~ first: arm end 92 being connected to a first deformab7.e shape retaining member 94 at the first arm end 92. Tree first deformable shape retaining member 94 preferably includes the first support end 48 and is attached to thE~ first: earplug 38 (shown in Fig. 1) . First horizontal adjustment: means 66 preferably includes the first arm 90, and the first arm 90 is sized for receipt into the first channE:l 72 (shown in Fig. 3). The first arm 90 has a first plurality of apertures 96 for selectively rec:eivinc~ the first pin 84 (shown in Fig. 4) to horizontally position the first earplug 38 (shown in Fig. 2 ) . Referring t:o Figs . 1, 3, 4, and 5, the horizontal position of the first earplug 38 can be changed by first lifting the first tab 86 to retract the first pin 84 from the first hole 76 and one of the first plurality of apertures 96. Next, the horizontal position of the first earplug 38 can be changed so that another one of the first plurality of apertures 96 is aligned with the first hole 76. Finally, the first tab B6 is released, the first pin 84 is forced into the selected one of the first plurality of apertures 96 by the first resilient member 78, and the first earplug 38 is secured into the selected horizontal position.
Referring to Figs. 1, 5, and 5A, the first temple 44 preferably includes first vertical adjustment means 98 for vertically adjusting the first earplug 38 to a selected vertical position. First vertical adjustment means 98 preferably includes the first deformable shape retaining member 94 which is selectively adjustable to vertically position the first earplug 38. The first deformable shape retaining member 94 is preferably constructed by including a first wire 100 inside a flexible material, such as a 2o suitable plastic or rubber material. The first deformable shape retaining member 94 is attached to the first arm end 92. The first arm 90 and the first deformable shape retaining member 94 form the first rear temple portion 88 which preferably has a shape substantially in the form of an S or Z. Notably, the first deformable shape retaining member 94 is preferably constructed laterally inwardly with respect to the first arm 90. The first deformable shape retaining member 94 can be can be vertically adjusted to selectively vertically position the first earplug 38 by applying sufficient force to the first deformable shape retaining member 94 in the desired vertical direction. The first deformable shape retaining member 94 will remain in the vertically adjusted position until sufficient force is applied to position the first deformable shape retaining member 94 to a different vertical position. Figs. 5 and 5A show the first deformable shape retaining member 94 adjusted to two different vertical positions.
Referring to Fic~s. 1, 7, and 8, the second temple 52 preferably inc7.udes :>econd horizontal adjustment means 102 for horizontal7.y adjusting the second earplug 40 to a selected horizontal position. Second horizontal adjustment means 102 preferably includes a second front temple portion 104. The second front temple portion 104 has an end which serves as the second attachment end 54 of the second temple 52.. The second front temple portion 104 is preferably c:onstructed in the shape of a sleeve having a rectangular cross section. The second front temple portion 104 ha:> a second receiving end 106 and a second channel 108 ext:endinc~ longitudinally from the second receiving end 1.06 and into the interior of the second front temple portion 104. Referring to Fig. 8, a second outward side 11.0 of t:he second front temple portion 104 has a second hale 11:? extending therethrough. Second horizontal adjustment= means 102 preferably further includes a second re:>ilient member 114 having a second resilient member attachment end 116 and a second resilient member tab end 118. The second resilient member attachment end 116 is attached to the second outward side 110 of the second front temple portion 104, adjacent the second attachmE:nt end 54. Fig. 7 shows the second resilient member 114 in its normal in-use position, while Fig. 8 shows the second resilient member 114 in a lifted position. The second resilient member 114 includes a second pin 120 which removably extends through the second hole 112. The second resilient member 114 includes a second tab 122 adjacESnt the second resilient member tab end 118. The :second pin 120 can be retracted from the second hole 11:? by lifting the second tab 122 away from the second outward side 110 of the second front temple portion 104 as shown in Fig. 8. The second resilient member 114 is constructed from a well known resilient material, such as a resilient plastic or metal.
Referring to Fig. 9, the second temple 52 preferably includes a second rear temple portion 124 including a second arm 126 having a second arm end 128 being connected to a second deformable shape retaining member 130 at the second arm end 128. The second deformable shape retaining member 130 preferably includes the second support end 56 and is attached to the second earplug 40 (shown in Fig.
1). Second horizontal adjustment means 102 preferably includes the second arm 126, and the second arm 126 is sized for receipt into the second channel 108 (shown in Fig. 7). The second arm 126 has a second plurality of apertures 132 for selectively receiving the second pin 120 (shown in Fig. 8) to horizontally position the second earplug 40 (shown in Fig 1). Referring to Figs. 1, 7, 8, and 9, the horizontal position of the second earplug 40 can be changed by first lifting the second tab 122 to retract the second pin 120 from the second hole 112 and one of the second plurality of apertures 132. Next, the horizontal position of the second earplug 40 can be changed so that another one of the second plurality of apertures 132 is aligned with the second hole I12.
Finally, the second tab 122 is released, the second pin 120 is forced into the selected one of the second plurality of apertures 132 by the second resilient member 114, and the second earplug 40 is secured into the selected horizontal position.
Referring to Figs. 1, 9, and 9A, the second temple 52 preferably includes second vertical adjustment means 134 for vertically adjusting the second earplug 40 to a selected vertic:al po;>ition. Second vertical adjustment means 134 preferably includes the second deformable shape retaining member 130 which is selectively adjustable to vertically position t:he second earplug 40. The second 5 deformable shape retaining member 130 is preferably constructed by including a second wire 136 inside a flexible material, such as a suitable plastic or rubber material. The second deformable shape retaining member 130 is attached to the second arm end 128. The second arm l0 126 and the second deformable shape retaining member 130 form the second rear temple portion 124 which preferably has a shape sux>stantially in the form of an S or Z.
Notably, the second deformable shape retaining member 130 is preferably constructed laterally inwardly with respect 15 to the second arm 12E>. The second deformable shape retaining member 130 can be can be vertically adjusted to selectively po:cition the second earplug 40 by applying sufficient force to t:he second deformable shape retaining member 130 in t:he desired vertical direction. The second 2o deformable shad>e retaining member 130 will remain in the vertically adjusted position until sufficient force is applied to position t:he second deformable shape retaining member 130 to a~ diffE:rent vertical position. Figs. 9 and 9A show the second deformable shape retaining member 130 adjusted to two different vertical positions.
The first and second temples 44, 52 can be adjusted by using the respective horizontal adjustment means 66, 102 and the re~~pective vertical adjustment means 98, 134.
3o In this manner, the first and second earplugs 38, 40 can be positioned t:o be secured in the auditory canals of human beings with different sized and shaped heads. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 will be securely held in place amd thE: human being can be very physically active .
WO 98/55894 PCT/Z.1S98/09044 Referring to Figs. 1 and 3, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 preferably includes a first side transparent panel 138 being disposed adjacent the first temple 44 and preferably being attached to the first front temple portion 68 by means well known in the art.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 7, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 preferably includes a second side transparent panel 140 being disposed adjacent the second temple 52 and preferably being attached to the second l0 front temple portion 104 by means well known in the art.
The first and second side transparent panels 138, 140 are preferably constructed from a well known clear plastic material suitable for viewing therethrough.
Referring to Fig. 6, each earplug 38, 40 preferably includes a ball 142 being attached at one end to the attachment stem 43 and having an earplug aperture 144 at the other end. The earplug aperture 144 leads to a reception cavity (hidden) constructed inside the ball 142.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 6, the eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 preferably includes suspending means 148 for suspending the apparatus 20 from the neck of a human being. Suspending means 148 preferably comprises an elongated securing tiepiece 150. The elongated securing tiepiece 150 is preferably constructed from rubber, but, may be constructed from woven fibers, leather, plastic, or any other well known suitable material. Suspending means 148 includes detaching means 152 for detaching suspending means 148 from the apparatus 20 in response to an applied force. Detaching means 152 preferably comprises a first retaining element 154 attached to one end of the elongated securing tiepiece 150 and a second retaining element 156 attached to the other end of the elongated securing tiepiece 150. The first and second retaining elements WO-98/55894 PCTlUS98/09044 154, 156 are constru<aed to be removably received into the earplug aperture 144 and reception cavity of each respective earplug 3f3, 40. When the first and second retaining elemE~nts 154, 156 are received in the respective reception cavil=ies, t=he eyesight and hearing safety apparatus 20 can be removed from the head of the human being, and the human being can suspend the apparatus 20 from his or her neck., If the apparatus 20 should accidentally be=come caught in a piece of machinery, one or both of the rei:aininc~ elements 154, 156 will be removed from the respecaive reception cavity due to the force of the machinery pulling on the apparatus 20. In this manner, injury that could be caused by the machinery is prevented. The, first. and second retaining elements 154, 156 can be constructed from well known materials such as rubber or plasi=ic.
Although l.he pre=sent invention has been described and illustrated wii~h respect to a preferred embodiment and a preferred use i:herefo r, it is not to be so limited since modifications and changes can be made therein which are within the ful_L intended scope of the invention.
Claims (10)
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An eyesight and hearing safety apparatus for use by a human being, said apparatus comprising:
(a) a front guard portion including a front transparent panel for protecting the eyesight of a human being and having a left front guard portion end and a right front guard portion end;
(b) a left temple being attached to said left front guard portion end, said left temple including a substantially fixed-length left shape-retaining member;
(c) a right temple being attached to said right front guard portion end, said right temple including a substantially fixed-length right shape-retaining member;
and (d) a left and a right earplug, said left and right earplugs being for supporting said front guard portion from respective left and right auditory canals of the human being when the human being is wearing said apparatus, said left earplug being attached to said left shape-retaining member in fixed relation thereto and said right earplug being attached to said right shape-retaining member in fixed relation thereto.
(a) a front guard portion including a front transparent panel for protecting the eyesight of a human being and having a left front guard portion end and a right front guard portion end;
(b) a left temple being attached to said left front guard portion end, said left temple including a substantially fixed-length left shape-retaining member;
(c) a right temple being attached to said right front guard portion end, said right temple including a substantially fixed-length right shape-retaining member;
and (d) a left and a right earplug, said left and right earplugs being for supporting said front guard portion from respective left and right auditory canals of the human being when the human being is wearing said apparatus, said left earplug being attached to said left shape-retaining member in fixed relation thereto and said right earplug being attached to said right shape-retaining member in fixed relation thereto.
2. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which said left and right shape-retaining members are deformable.
3. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which said apparatus is free of support means for supporting said apparatus from the human being's ears other than said left and right earplugs.
4. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which said left and right temples each include means for horizontally adjusting the respective left and right earplugs to respective selected horizontal positions.
5. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which said apparatus further includes a left side transparent panel being disposed adjacent said left temple, and a right side transparent panel being disposed adjacent said right temple.
6. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which said apparatus further includes suspending means for suspending said apparatus from the neck of a human being; said suspending means including an elongated tiepiece having left and right ends and including left and right retaining elements respectively attached to said left and right ends of said elongated tiepiece; said left and right earplugs respectively having left and right cavities thereinto, with said left and right retaining elements being respectively removably received into said left and right cavities.
7. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which said front guard portion further includes an elongated resilient member attached to said front transparent panel for biasing, when the human being is wearing said apparatus, said left and right earplugs respectively inwardly into the left and right auditory canals of the human being.
8. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus as recited in claim 1, in which said left and right shape-retaining members are deformable; said left and right temples each include means for horizontally adjusting the respective left and right earplugs to respective selected horizontal positions; and said apparatus being free of support means for supporting said apparatus from the human being's ears other than said left and right earplugs.
9. The eyesight and hearing safety apparatus as recited in claim 8, in which said front guard portion further includes an elongated resilient member attached to said front transparent panel for biasing, when the human being is wearing said apparatus, said left and right earplugs respectively inwardly into the left and right auditory canals of the human being.
10. An eyesight and hearing safety apparatus for use by a human being, said apparatus comprising:
(a) a front guard portion having a left front guard portion end and a right front guard portion end; said front guard portion including:
i. an elongated resilient member; and ii. a front transparent panel being attached to said elongated resilient member, said front transparent panel being for protecting the eyesight of the human being;
(b) a first and a second earplug, said first and second earplugs being for supporting said front guard portion from a respective auditory canal when the human being is wearing said apparatus;
(c) a first temple including:
a first sleeve portion having a first attachment end being attached to said left front guard portion end, a first receiving end, and a first hole extending through a first outward side of the first sleeve portion;
ii. a first resilient member being attached to said first sleeve portion and including a first pin for removably extending through said first hole;
iii. a first arm being sized for receipt into said first sleeve portion, said first arm having a first arm end and a first plurality of apertures for selectively receiving said first pin to horizontally position said first earplug, iv a first deformable shape retaining member being selectively adjustable to vertically position said first earplug, said first deformable shape retaining member being attached to the first arm end and including a first support end, said first earplug being attached to said first deformable shape retaining member adjacent said first support end;
(d) a second temple including:
i. a second sleeve portion having a second attachment end being attached to said right front guard portion end, a second receiving end, and a second hole extending through a second outward side of the second sleeve portion, ii a second resilient member being attached to said second sleeve portion and including a second pin for removably extending through said second hole, iii. a second arm being sized for receipt into said second sleeve portion, said second arm having a second arm end and a second plurality of apertures for selectively receiving said second pin to horizontally position said second earplug, iv a second deformable shape retaining member being selectively adjustable to vertically position said second earplug, said second deformable shape retaining member being attached to the second arm end and including a second support end, said second earplug being attached to said second deformable shape retaining member adjacent said second support end;
(e) a first side transparent panel being attached to said first sleeve portion;
(f) a second side transparent panel being attached to said second sleeve portion; and (g) an elongated securing tiepiece removably attached to said first and second earplugs.
(a) a front guard portion having a left front guard portion end and a right front guard portion end; said front guard portion including:
i. an elongated resilient member; and ii. a front transparent panel being attached to said elongated resilient member, said front transparent panel being for protecting the eyesight of the human being;
(b) a first and a second earplug, said first and second earplugs being for supporting said front guard portion from a respective auditory canal when the human being is wearing said apparatus;
(c) a first temple including:
a first sleeve portion having a first attachment end being attached to said left front guard portion end, a first receiving end, and a first hole extending through a first outward side of the first sleeve portion;
ii. a first resilient member being attached to said first sleeve portion and including a first pin for removably extending through said first hole;
iii. a first arm being sized for receipt into said first sleeve portion, said first arm having a first arm end and a first plurality of apertures for selectively receiving said first pin to horizontally position said first earplug, iv a first deformable shape retaining member being selectively adjustable to vertically position said first earplug, said first deformable shape retaining member being attached to the first arm end and including a first support end, said first earplug being attached to said first deformable shape retaining member adjacent said first support end;
(d) a second temple including:
i. a second sleeve portion having a second attachment end being attached to said right front guard portion end, a second receiving end, and a second hole extending through a second outward side of the second sleeve portion, ii a second resilient member being attached to said second sleeve portion and including a second pin for removably extending through said second hole, iii. a second arm being sized for receipt into said second sleeve portion, said second arm having a second arm end and a second plurality of apertures for selectively receiving said second pin to horizontally position said second earplug, iv a second deformable shape retaining member being selectively adjustable to vertically position said second earplug, said second deformable shape retaining member being attached to the second arm end and including a second support end, said second earplug being attached to said second deformable shape retaining member adjacent said second support end;
(e) a first side transparent panel being attached to said first sleeve portion;
(f) a second side transparent panel being attached to said second sleeve portion; and (g) an elongated securing tiepiece removably attached to said first and second earplugs.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/870,433 US5781272A (en) | 1997-06-06 | 1997-06-06 | Eyesight protection apparatus with attached earplugs |
| US08/870,433 | 1997-06-06 | ||
| PCT/US1998/009044 WO1998055894A1 (en) | 1997-06-06 | 1998-05-04 | Eyesight protection apparatus with attached earplugs |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2289874A1 CA2289874A1 (en) | 1998-12-10 |
| CA2289874C true CA2289874C (en) | 2001-05-01 |
Family
ID=25355360
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002289874A Expired - Fee Related CA2289874C (en) | 1997-06-06 | 1998-05-04 | Eyesight protection apparatus with attached earplugs |
Country Status (7)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5781272A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0990190A4 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU742354B2 (en) |
| BR (1) | BR9812264A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2289874C (en) |
| NO (1) | NO995612L (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1998055894A1 (en) |
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| US6176576B1 (en) | 1997-06-06 | 2001-01-23 | Radians, Inc. | Eyewear supported by a wearer's concha of an ear |
| GB2343263B (en) * | 1998-07-13 | 2000-06-28 | Radians Inc | Eyewear |
| US6082855A (en) * | 1998-09-16 | 2000-07-04 | Bacou Usa Safety, Inc. | Earplug attachment for eyeglasses |
| USD418153S (en) * | 1999-02-10 | 1999-12-28 | Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. | Eyeglass radio |
| USD426845S (en) * | 1999-05-03 | 2000-06-20 | Radians, Inc. | Eyewear |
| US6129175A (en) * | 1999-05-07 | 2000-10-10 | Radians, Inc. | Acoustical control plastisol earpieces |
| US6074060A (en) * | 1999-10-07 | 2000-06-13 | Bruce; Joe A. | Eyesight and hearing safety apparatus |
| USD435058S (en) * | 2000-04-04 | 2000-12-12 | Radians, Inc. | Eyewear |
| US7150526B2 (en) * | 2000-06-02 | 2006-12-19 | Oakley, Inc. | Wireless interactive headset |
| US7461936B2 (en) | 2000-06-02 | 2008-12-09 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyeglasses with detachable adjustable electronics module |
| US7278734B2 (en) | 2000-06-02 | 2007-10-09 | Oakley, Inc. | Wireless interactive headset |
| US8482488B2 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2013-07-09 | Oakley, Inc. | Data input management system for wearable electronically enabled interface |
| US20120105740A1 (en) | 2000-06-02 | 2012-05-03 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyewear with detachable adjustable electronics module |
| US7013009B2 (en) | 2001-06-21 | 2006-03-14 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyeglasses with wireless communication features |
| US6729726B2 (en) | 2001-10-06 | 2004-05-04 | Stryker Corporation | Eyewear for hands-free communication |
| US7313246B2 (en) * | 2001-10-06 | 2007-12-25 | Stryker Corporation | Information system using eyewear for communication |
| US6728974B2 (en) * | 2001-10-12 | 2004-05-04 | Jake Wadsworth | Safety goggles with earplugs |
| US7512414B2 (en) * | 2002-07-26 | 2009-03-31 | Oakley, Inc. | Wireless interactive headset |
| USD567935S1 (en) | 2002-11-08 | 2008-04-29 | Resmed Limited | Portion of forehead pad |
| US20050270478A1 (en) * | 2004-06-02 | 2005-12-08 | Bacou-Dalloz Eye & Face Protection | Temple bar assembly for eyeglasses |
| US7559647B2 (en) * | 2004-10-08 | 2009-07-14 | Armando Curiel | Apparatus, system and method for fastening articles to face or head |
| US8596279B2 (en) * | 2005-11-09 | 2013-12-03 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Offset stem for earplug and earplug formed therewith |
| US7686448B2 (en) * | 2006-06-16 | 2010-03-30 | Marie Betts-Johnson | Eyeglass frames |
| EP2095178B1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2015-08-12 | Oakley, Inc. | Wearable high resolution audio visual interface |
| US20080309869A1 (en) * | 2007-06-12 | 2008-12-18 | Chin-Jen Chen | Ear-propped device with an elastic band |
| EP2315563A4 (en) * | 2008-08-19 | 2011-09-28 | Univ Syracuse | Hearing protection apparatus with incorporated eyewear |
| DE102008049338A1 (en) * | 2008-09-29 | 2010-04-08 | Carl Zeiss Ag | Display device i.e. head mounted display device, for displaying image, has retaining element exhibiting extending section extending perpendicularly to axis of ear clips, and sound transmitting element arranged in retaining element |
| US7921468B2 (en) * | 2009-01-15 | 2011-04-12 | Daniel Joseph Conrad Sutton | Eye and ear protector |
| JP5245981B2 (en) * | 2009-03-30 | 2013-07-24 | ブラザー工業株式会社 | Head mounted display |
| US8794758B2 (en) * | 2009-10-22 | 2014-08-05 | Readymax, Inc. | Retractable earplug apparatus for an eyewear assembly and a vest assembly |
| US9351881B2 (en) | 2009-10-22 | 2016-05-31 | Readymax, Inc. | Retractable earplug apparatus for an eyewear assembly |
| US7997721B1 (en) | 2010-07-29 | 2011-08-16 | Burcham Mark A | Safety eyewear device with hearing protection |
| US8523351B1 (en) | 2012-03-09 | 2013-09-03 | Lak Cheong | Eyewear with interchangeable attachment |
| JP5979490B2 (en) * | 2012-10-16 | 2016-08-24 | 和晃 竹谷 | Eyeglass fixture |
| WO2014149631A2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-25 | Oakley, Inc. | Electronic ornamentation for eyewear |
| CN205691887U (en) | 2013-06-12 | 2016-11-16 | 奥克利有限公司 | Modular communication system and glasses communication system |
| USD734807S1 (en) * | 2013-10-14 | 2015-07-21 | Bowen Wu | Eyeglasses with bluetooth for phone and music |
| US9295585B1 (en) | 2014-09-11 | 2016-03-29 | Syracuse University | Ear muffler |
| US9855171B2 (en) | 2015-03-04 | 2018-01-02 | 3R Products, Llc | Safety glasses |
| US9770367B2 (en) | 2015-04-02 | 2017-09-26 | Fast Forward Product Development Llc | Lanyard with integrated ear plugs and retractable sheath |
| USD818260S1 (en) | 2015-04-02 | 2018-05-22 | Cade Andersen | Earplug holder |
| USD794703S1 (en) * | 2015-04-02 | 2017-08-15 | Fast Forward Product Development Llc | Combination eyeglass retainer and earplug holder |
| USD763828S1 (en) | 2015-06-11 | 2016-08-16 | Oakley, Inc. | Headwear accessory |
| USD764568S1 (en) | 2015-06-11 | 2016-08-23 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyeglass |
| USD794113S1 (en) * | 2015-09-11 | 2017-08-08 | Thomas James Cannaliato | Eyeglass retainer |
| AU2017240042B2 (en) | 2016-04-01 | 2019-09-19 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Hearing protection device and method of forming same |
| CN111684340A (en) | 2018-03-22 | 2020-09-18 | 三井化学株式会社 | Eyewear |
| US11717037B2 (en) * | 2018-06-04 | 2023-08-08 | Peter Driessen | Safety garment with integrated earplugs |
| US11520170B2 (en) * | 2019-01-08 | 2022-12-06 | Alexander John | Eyewear mounting device |
| USD913363S1 (en) * | 2019-08-06 | 2021-03-16 | Omar Badran | Eyeglasses strap |
| USD966494S1 (en) * | 2019-08-21 | 2022-10-11 | Chronotech (Pty) Ltd | Earplug set |
| US20230305314A1 (en) * | 2022-01-22 | 2023-09-28 | James Colosimo | Eyeglasses with magnet deployment |
| US20240065351A1 (en) * | 2022-08-31 | 2024-02-29 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Face mask mounts for head mounted devices |
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| US3384903A (en) * | 1965-12-20 | 1968-05-28 | Cesco Safety Products Inc | Eye protective spectacles |
| US3620608A (en) * | 1970-04-06 | 1971-11-16 | Jeannette Davis | Eyeglass assembly |
| US3943925A (en) * | 1973-04-02 | 1976-03-16 | Leight Howard S | Ear protector assembly |
| US4153348A (en) * | 1977-07-05 | 1979-05-08 | The Fibre-Metal Products Company | Adjustable eyeglass temple |
| SE449949B (en) * | 1984-11-29 | 1987-06-01 | Bilsom Ab | EARNESS CONNECTION DEVICE INCLUDING TWO EARNESS CONNECTORS AND AN ELASTIC BOARD |
| US4632104A (en) * | 1985-09-16 | 1986-12-30 | Conrow Robert P | Device for relief of headaches |
| FR2612651B1 (en) * | 1987-03-20 | 1992-01-17 | Int Lunetterie Sa | ADJUSTABLE BRANCH FOR EYEWEAR FRAME |
| GB8818345D0 (en) * | 1988-08-02 | 1988-09-07 | Hellberg Protection Ltd | Eye & hearing protection |
| US4955708A (en) * | 1989-04-20 | 1990-09-11 | Alan Kahaney | Sunglasses having adjustable temples |
| US5074375A (en) * | 1989-10-18 | 1991-12-24 | Grozil Richard S | Hearing protection system assembly |
| US5278999A (en) * | 1993-02-17 | 1994-01-18 | Ronald Brown | Combined ear and eye protection device |
| US5475449A (en) * | 1993-09-22 | 1995-12-12 | Pyle; Nigel | Safety glass/ear plug combination |
| US5541677A (en) * | 1994-12-28 | 1996-07-30 | Keith Huhtala | Spectacles retaining strap with connected earplugs |
| US5619750A (en) * | 1995-12-04 | 1997-04-15 | Allewalt; Donald L. | Eyes-ears-nose protector |
| US5703670A (en) * | 1996-11-19 | 1997-12-30 | Callard; Shawn R. | Earplugs adapted to eyeglasses and combination thereof |
-
1997
- 1997-06-06 US US08/870,433 patent/US5781272A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1998
- 1998-05-04 CA CA002289874A patent/CA2289874C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1998-05-04 BR BR9812264-9A patent/BR9812264A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1998-05-04 AU AU72820/98A patent/AU742354B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1998-05-04 WO PCT/US1998/009044 patent/WO1998055894A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 1998-05-04 EP EP98920191A patent/EP0990190A4/en not_active Withdrawn
-
1999
- 1999-11-16 NO NO995612A patent/NO995612L/en not_active Application Discontinuation
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU742354B2 (en) | 2002-01-03 |
| EP0990190A4 (en) | 2000-10-04 |
| CA2289874A1 (en) | 1998-12-10 |
| US5781272A (en) | 1998-07-14 |
| NO995612L (en) | 1999-12-15 |
| AU7282098A (en) | 1998-12-21 |
| EP0990190A1 (en) | 2000-04-05 |
| WO1998055894A1 (en) | 1998-12-10 |
| NO995612D0 (en) | 1999-11-16 |
| BR9812264A (en) | 2000-07-18 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |