JP2002306528A - Ear cover device and ear warmth retaining frame - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve ear muffs for protecting the ears of an individual. SOLUTION: The ear cover device extended on the head or back of the neck of a wearing person is formed from a flexible band and two ear cups attached on both ends thereof. This band is configured to be mounted on the rear head part of the cover device by expanding a space between both the ear cup members because of flexibility thereof. Each of ear cups is equipped with a conical frame portion having a central opening. Cloth covers such a conical portion of the ear cup and the flexible band. The conical portion forms a pocket together with the cloth. Suitable materials can be used for retaining the warmth of ears, protecting the ears and applying comfort. By inserting an earphone into the pocket, an ear protector and a headphone can be combined. The ear cups can be hinged on the band and the cover device can be folded in the case of no use as well.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a cover which is worn on an individual's ear to protect it. The cover is configured to extend behind the head or neck of the individual when worn. The invention also relates to an ear protection device incorporating an audio earphone or the like.

[0002]

This application is a continuation-in-part of pending US application Ser. No. 08 / 460,587, filed Jun. 2, 1995. Many devices for covering an individual's ear for heat retention and the like are known. Some of these devices, commonly known as "ear muffs", are disclosed in US Patent No. 3,249,949 to Rosenberg et al. And US Patent No. 3,509,580 to Rubinstein et al. These prior art earmuffs have a band that wraps overhead, the enlarged end of which covers the ears to keep it warm and protected.

[0003] Another means of securing the ear protection structure is Ro.
No. 2,070,216 to Senberg, which is in the form of a headband. Edwards US Patent
U.S. Pat. No. 5,201,856 shows a device that is wrapped around an individual's temporal and is attached to the eyeglass arm at the front end. U.S. Pat. No. 5,339,467 to Brinkley shows an ear protection device that is worn on the edge of the ear and maintains its position without a fastening strap or the like.

[0004] US Patent No. 548,738 to Ballard shows an ear and neck protection device that is wrapped around the occiput of an individual and covers the neck at a location below the collar. Triplett, U.S. Pat. No. 2,671,221, shows an ear protection device wrapped around the back of an individual and hinged at its center. Incorporating audio speakers into earmuff or headband devices has long been practiced. Krawangna U.S. Pat. No. 3,787,899 shows an earmuff with audio speakers. Spates U.S. Pat.No. 4,864,619
The numbers indicate the stereo headset in the headband. U.S. Pat. No. 5,257,420 to Byrne, Jr. shows a cover for a standard headphone.

[0005]

Although various types of earmuffs and headbands exist, it is an object of the present invention to further improve the conventional ear protection device.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a cover device that is worn over an individual's ear. The cover device preferably extends between the ears and covers the back of the head or neck of the individual. According to the present invention, a cover device configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around the head or neck comprises a band having one central curved portion and two opposing ends, Comprises two ear cups attached to opposite ends of the band by mounting flanges and having a cup portion having a central opening, and cloth means covering both sides of the band and the ear cups, the center curved portion of the band And a mounting flange with said cup portion forcing said ear cups inward in opposite directions from opposite ends of said band. In a preferred embodiment, the cup is frustoconical. In a preferred embodiment, the mounting flange is formed integrally with the cup portion at an inclined angle. In a preferred form, the cloth means forms a pocket in the cup portion of the ear cup. Another form of the cover device according to the present invention, which is configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around the head or neck, has a first curved portion and a second curved portion, and Two ear cups including a cup with a central opening and a band of adjustable relative length, one end of each said curved portion being overlapped and slidably mounted on each other;
One ear cup is attached to the end of the first and second curved portions opposite the overlapped end, and attachment of the cup to the band causes rotation of the cup portion about its attachment. Two ear cups, and cloth means covering both sides of the band and the ear cups. In a preferred form, the cloth means surrounds the band and the ear cup. In a preferred embodiment, the cup is frustoconical. Another form of the cover device according to the present invention, which is configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around the head or neck, has a first curved portion and a second curved portion. An adjustable relative length band with one end of the curved portion overlapping and slidably mounted on each other; two ear cups respectively mounted on the free ends of the first and second curved portions; The band includes a cloth means covering both sides of the ear cup, the ear cup forming a cavity formed by two support flanges and a semi-circular frame portion extending between opposing protrusions of the support flange. The semi-circular frame portion and the support flange form a central opening, and a mounting flange projects from the support flange in a direction opposite to the semi-circular frame portion, the mounting flange connecting the ear cup. And characterized in that it comprises a means for rotatably mounting the free end of the second curved portion. In a preferred embodiment, the two support flanges are formed in a V-shape, and the mounting flange projects from a top of the support flange. In a preferred embodiment, the cloth means forms a pocket in the cavity of the ear cup. In a preferred embodiment, the cloth means is composed of a plurality of cloth pieces. In a preferred embodiment, the two ear cups are rotatably engaged in position at free ends of the first and second curved portions and are in line with the band. In a preferred embodiment, the portion of the band adjacent to the end of the first curved portion is not wider than the end of the first curved portion of the band, and the portion of the band adjacent to the end of the second curved portion is It is not wider than the end of the second curved portion of the band. In a preferred embodiment, the band and the two support flanges direct the ear cups inwards in opposite directions to maintain the position of the device. In a preferred form, the device maintains a position around the back of the head or neck of the individual without supporting the upper part of the head of the individual.

The present invention further provides an ear insulation frame, the ear insulation frame having a protrusion at a first end and a passage at a second end, and a first curved portion at the first end. A band having a second curved portion having a protrusion and having a passage at a second end, each said passage having a first slot allowing sliding of an opposed curved portion of the band; and The band has a second slot portion that allows the protrusion of the opposed curved portion to slide, whereby one end of each of the first and second curved portions overlaps and is slidable on the opposed curved portion. The band is attached to adjust a relative total length of the band. In a preferred embodiment, the ear insulation frame further comprises two ear cups having a mounting head,
Each of the mounting heads is one of the curved portions of the band.
Mounted on two protrusions. In a preferred embodiment, the passage of the first curved portion of the band is formed integrally with the first curved portion of the band, and the passage of the second curved portion of the band is integral with the second curved portion of the band. Is formed. In a preferred embodiment, the first curved portion of the band has a series of ridges on an inner surface thereof, the ridges engaging with a fold formed by a second curved portion of the band, and When adjusting the overall length of the two curved portions, it is configured to resist the relative sliding movement of the two curved portions. Further, another form of the cover device according to the present invention, which is configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around the back of the head, may have one central curved portion and two ends. A flexible band, two earcups, one of which is attached to each end of the band, at least a portion of the earcup being frustoconical and having a central opening, and the earcup And a cloth means for covering the flexible band. In a preferred form, the cloth means and the ear cup form a pocket, and opening means are formed in the cloth means for inserting an earphone into the pocket. In a preferred form, the flexible bun has an inside and an outside, each said ear cup has an inside and an outside, and said cloth means covers the inside and outside of said flexible band, and It covers the inside and outside of the ear cup. In a preferred form, the ear cup is hingedly connected to both ends of the band. In a preferred form, the hinged connection between the end and the band is formed by a living hinge.

Further, the present invention uses a specific dimensional relationship between the ear cup and the band, uses specific materials for the manufacture of the cover device, and is comfortable and worn by all individuals for ear protection. It is also intended to form a functional ear cover device.

[0009]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS For the purpose of describing the present invention, the presently preferred embodiment is shown in the drawings, but it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this configuration or device itself. is there. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings show various forms of an ear cover device according to the present invention, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts. As shown in FIG. 1, the ear cover device is generally designated by the reference numeral 10. This ear cover device 10
It is configured to be worn over the ears of the individual 12.
When worn, the device 10 extends along the back of the wearer's head and neck.

The ear cover device 10 has one band portion 14 and two ear cover portions 16. One side of the ear cover device 10 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the band portion 14 has a narrower width than the ear cover portion 16. This dimensional relationship can be varied in many ways without departing from the spirit of the invention. FIG.
Shows a plan view of the ear cover device 10 of FIG. In the position A of FIG. 2, the ear cover device 10 is shown in a normal rest position in which the ear cover portions 16 are adjacent to each other. The rest position of the ear cover part depends on the curvature of the band part 14 and the shape of the frame of the ear cover part 16 (details are shown in other figures).
Created by As shown in FIG. 2, the position “B” shows the ear cover portion 16 displaced outward mainly due to the bending of the band 14. By increasing the distance between the two ear cover parts 16, as shown in FIG.
Can be worn on the head of the individual 12. The spring force generated by the flexible band 14 of the ear cover device 10 allows the ear cover 16 to engage the temporal side of the individual 12. The spring force of the band is sufficient to engage the head 12 so that the ear cover device 10 does not fall off. However, it is desirable that this spring force be limited so that the wearing of the ear cover device is not uncomfortable.

3 to 5 show the frame structure of the ear cover device 10. FIG. This frame comprises one flexible band 18 and two ear cup frame members 20. The earcup frame member 20 includes a mounting portion or flange 22 and a frustoconical frame portion 24. The mounting part 22 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 is integrated with a frustoconical part 24. The mounting portion 22 is formed at a certain angle with respect to the surface of the truncated conical portion 24. This angle helps to position the ear cover 16 in the inward position "A", as shown in FIG.
The angle between the flange 22 and the truncated cone 24 is about 9
It is configured to be in the range of 0-160 °, preferably about 145 °. The flexible band 18 has an end 26 engaged with the mounting portion 22 of the ear cup frame member 20. As shown in FIG. 3, the end 26 is
The second slot 28 engages and is secured there by a rib 30. At the end 26, two ribs 30
So that the ear cup frame member 20 does not come off from between
A claw (not shown) may be provided at the end 26 of the flexible band 18.

As shown, the flexible band 18 has one curved portion 32 and two ends 26. Preferably, the curved portion 32 has a radius of curvature of about 21/4 inches (about 13.3 cm). The end has a curved portion 32
And is separated by a distance X as shown in FIG. This distance X is about 3.5-4.
Preferably, it is 5 inches (about 8.9 to 11.4 cm), particularly about 3.9 inches (about 9.9 cm). End 26 is straight and integral with curved portion 32. The band 18 is preferably made of a stainless steel type material, but other materials including polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene, etc. can be used. Before attaching the ear cover device 10 to the head 12, the band 18 is sufficiently large so that the relative distance X between the both ends 26 can be enlarged and the ear cup frame members 20 can be separated from each other (see FIG. 1). It is necessary to have flexibility.

The ear cup frame member 20 is preferably made of a plastic material such as nylon. The frustoconical portion 24 at each end of the frame has a central opening 34. The diameter of the frustoconical portion at the base is about 2.7-
It is configured to be in the range of 4 inches (about 6.9 to 10.2 cm), and preferably about 3 inches (about 7.6 cm).
The height of the frusto-conical portion is preferably in the range of about 0.2-0.5 inches (about 0.5-1.3 cm). If the height is about 0.25 inches (about 0.6 cm), the angle of the side wall is preferably about 45 degrees. The frustoconical portion 24 is configured to fit around the ear when the ear cover device 10 is worn.

FIG. 6 shows a pair of speakers or earphones 3.
6 shows an ear cover device 10 having a speaker wire 6 and a speaker wire 38 incorporated therein. The earphone 36 and the speaker wire 38 are separate from the ear cover device 10 in FIG.
Also shown in (B). The speaker wire 38 has a standard male jack 39 at its end for connection to a personal radio, tape player or the like (not shown).

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7A, an ear cover device 1 is shown.
0 comprises a band 18 and an ear cup frame member 20 as shown in FIGS. The band 18 and the ear cup frame member 20 are covered with a cover 40 made of a cloth material. As shown, the band portion 14 and the ear cover portion 16 are covered with a cloth cover 40, respectively. The fabric cover 40 includes a set of bands 42 that engage and hold the speaker wires 38 within the ear cover device 10. Further, a pocket for holding the earphone 36 is formed in the ear cup frame member 20. The earphone 36 can be inserted into the pocket through the slot 44 of the cloth cover 40. As shown, this slot 44 is provided in each ear cover 1
6 is located adjacent to.

As shown in FIGS. 8A to 8F, the cloth cover 40 has a plurality of layers. In FIG. 8A,
A plan view of the ear cover device 10 in a deployed position is shown. The cloth cover 40 completely covers the outer surface of the band and the ear cup frame member 20. As shown in FIG. 8B, the cloth cover 40 includes the band 18 and the ear cup 20.
The inner surface of the frame member is also covered.

To form the fabric cover 40 for the ear cover device 10, multiple layers of fabric are used. These layers are shown generally in FIGS. 8 (C)-(F). FIG.
(C) shows the outer shell 46 with a central tapered portion 48. FIG. 8D shows the inner cloth cover 52 exposed between the bands 42 when assembled as shown in FIG. This inner cloth cover 52
Substantially covers the inner surface of the band 18. The inner cloth cover 52 has a central portion 56 shown in FIG.
And overlap. The central portion 56 has a set of bands 42 and openings 60 at its center and a circular portion 58 at each end. Inside the circular portion 58 is a central opening 62.
Is provided. The central portion 56 is located inside the ear cover device 10 and is configured to at least partially cover the inner cloth cover 52. Inner ear member 64
Covers the circular portion 58 of the band fabric 56. As shown in FIG. 8F, the inner ear member 64 has a substantially circular shape. The inner ear member 64 includes the circular portion 5.
8 and corresponding central portion 56 above central opening 62. A curved border 66 is provided adjacent one end of the inner ear member 64 to form a slot 44 for inserting the earphone 36 in the final structure, as shown in FIGS.

These layers of the cloth cover 40 are joined by sewing or the like. The fabric cover can include an outer pipe 68. The pipe 68 is attached to the cloth cover 4.
0 may be formed as part of one of the layers or added to it as a separate element. Any number of materials can be used to construct the fabric cover 40. FIG.
As shown in (A) and (B), the pipe 68 may be an abrasion resistant cotton blend or may be entirely synthetic. The exposed outer shell 46 is a sealed cell type neoprene or other moisture resistant cloth coated with nylon. The inner center tapered cloth cover 52 and the inner ear member 64 are desirably made of a synthetic fleece lining material to provide warmth and comfort. This inner ear member 64
Contact person 12 directly. The exposed outer shell 46 can also be made of a fleece material. The fleece material has been found to adequately protect each component and to allow sound to pass.

FIGS. 9 to 23 show the ear cup frame member 2.
An example of a hinge used to make the connection between the zero attachment portion 22 and the frustoconical portion 24 is shown.
Each example will be described below. These examples are
It has an integral hinge type structure. The one-piece hinge used in the present invention has a continuous plastic structure that has a small cross-section between the base flange and the mounting flange to allow bending between the flanges. The shape of each hinge will be described in more detail.

FIG. 9 shows an example of a mounting portion 22 'for the ear cup frame member 20'. The frustoconical portion 24 shown in FIG. 9 is configured in much the same way as described above. However, the connection between the frusto-conical portion 24 and the mounting portion is not configured to be rigid. An integral hinge 70 is provided between the mounting flange 72 and the base flange 74. The integral hinge 70 allows the ear cup frame member 20 to rotate,
When not in use, the ear cover part 16 is folded into the band part 14, and the size of the ear cover device 10 can be reduced. The mounting flange 72 is provided with a rivet hole 76. The mounting portion 22 'and the flexible band 18 (FIG. 9)
(Not shown) may be provided by rivets (not shown). Rivet hole or opening 7
The rotation of the ear cup frame member 20 ′ about 6 allows the ear cover 16 to be folded into the band 14.

FIG. 10 shows another example of an ear cup frame member 20 "having a frustoconical frame portion 24 and an improved integral hinge 70 '.
It has an inverted T-shaped mounting flange 72 'and an L-shaped base flange 74'. This inverted T-shaped mounting flange 7
The connection between 2 'and L-shaped base flange 74' forms an integral hinge 70 ', which limits the amount of outward rotation of frustoconical portion 24 relative to mounting portion 22 ". Allows the frustoconical portion 24 to rotate inward toward the mounting portion 22 "when the ear cover device 10 is folded. Attach the mounting portion 22 "to the flexible band 1
In this example, the mounting flange 72 'is also provided with a rivet hole 76 for fixing to the end 8 (described above).

FIG. 11 shows the ear cup frame member 20 "'.
Is shown. In this example, the mounting flange 72 "is substantially coplanar with the base flange 74", with a hinge 70 "between them. A slot or groove is provided as part of the integral hinge 70", and a truncated cone. The shaped part 24 can be rotated inwardly by a limited amount with respect to the mounting flange 72 ".
6 or secured to the band 18 (described above) by rivets (not shown).

12 shows yet another example of an ear cup frame member 20 "" with a hinge 70 "" formed as part of the mounting portion 22 "". The base flange of this example. 74 "'indicates that one of the legs of the L
An L-shaped member is provided which is substantially flush with the 2 "". The L-shaped flange 74 "" and the mounting flange 72 "".
And an integral hinge 70 "" is provided between which the projections of the L-shaped flange 74 "" serve to prevent the frustoconical portion 24 from fully rotating relative to the mounting flange 72 "'. .

FIGS. 13-15 show another example of a hinge for an ear cup frame member. These hinges are configured in a press-fit relationship to secure adjacent elements and / or include pins. In FIG. 13, the frustoconical portion 24 includes a protruding tab 78. This tab 78 has an end with a circular cross section and forms the axis of the hinge 82. Tab 78 is formed integrally with frustoconical portion 24. The fixed portion 80 of the hinge 82 has a flat base 81 and a curved projection 84. Curved projection 8
4 envelops the end of the protruding tab 78 to form a hinge. The flat base 81 of the fixed part 80 limits the outer rotation of the frustoconical part 24.

In FIG. 14, the frustoconical portion has a protruding tab 78 'having a central slot. Fixed part 8
A tab 86 on 8 engages in a slot in tab 78. Pin 90 forms the hinge axis and tabs 78 and 86
Through the end of the FIG. 15 shows another example of the hinge structure for the ear cup frame. The frustoconical portion 24 has two protrusions 92 formed on the inner surface. Protrusions 92 engage opposite sides of a protruding tab 86 ′ formed as part of a fixed portion 88. A pin (not shown) forms the axis for the hinge, and the protrusion 92 and the fixed portion 88
Tab 86 '.

FIG. 16 shows an integral hinge having a shape similar to the example of FIG. The hinge 94 is connected to the flat portion 9
6 has a V-shaped notch 95 formed therein. Flat part 9
A mounting head 98 projects from the left side element of 6 and is inserted into an opening (not shown) at the end 26 of the band 18. Pressing the mounting head 98 into the opening in the end 26 creates a pivot point similar to the rivet mounting structure used in the examples of FIGS. The displacement of the integral hinge 94 is shown by a dotted line.

FIG. 17 shows still another example of the integral hinge. The hinge 100 is a first base member 102
And the second base member 104. Second
Base member 104 includes a mounting head 98 similar to the configuration of FIG. However, in this example, the first base member is not flush with the second base member. Hinge 10
A displacement of 0 is indicated by a dotted line.

FIG. 18 shows an integral hinge having a shape similar to that of the example of FIG. 10 described above. First base member 10
6 forms an inverted T-shaped member and is provided together with the L-shaped base member 108. The hinge 110 is formed between the first and second base members 106 and 108. The right protrusion of the first base member 106 (shown in FIG. 18) limits the downward rotation of the second base member 108. The movement of the second base member 108 is indicated by a dotted line.

FIG. 19 shows still another example of the integral hinge type mounting structure for the ear cup member. The hinge 112 is connected to the first base member 114 and the second base member 11.
6 is formed. First and second base members 1
14 and 116 have a curved portion at each end to enable the hinge 112 to be formed. The curved ends engage each other to form a second base member 116 (as shown).
Is restricted from pivoting downward. The upward rotation of the member 116 is indicated by a dotted line.

FIG. 20 shows still another example of the integral hinge type structure. In this example, hinge 118 is formed between two L-shaped members 120 and 122. These L-shaped members are located at positions facing each other so that the protrusions in the longitudinal direction do not form a plane. Also in this configuration, downward rotation of the right L-shaped member 122 is restricted. The upward rotation of the member 122 is indicated by a dotted line in FIG.

FIG. 21 illustrates a hinge configuration similar to the example of FIG. 13 described above. This hinge 124 is formed by a tab 126 having a circular end 128, which engages in a curved projection 130 formed on a flat member 132. The tab 126 engages the upper surface of the flat member 132 to limit downward rotation of the tab about the hinge 124. Further, the tab 1 centered on the hinge 124
The upward rotation of 26 is limited as indicated by the dotted line. The upper surface of tab 126 engages the end of curved portion 130. The hinge 124 is formed by pressing the circular end 128 of the tab into the inner surface of the curved protrusion 130.

FIG. 22 shows another example of a hinge similar to the example of FIG. The hinge 134 is formed between the first member 136 and the second member 138. These first and second members have engagement projections formed around the center pin 140. The upward rotation of the second member 138 about the hinge 134 is indicated by a dotted line.

FIG. 23 shows another example of the hinge structure. The hinge 142 is connected to the first flat member 144 and L
It is formed between the character-shaped second member 146. When the hinge 142 is folded, the L-shaped second member 146
The upper surface of the second member 146 is engaged with the lower surface of the first flat member 144. The open state of the hinge 142 is indicated by a dotted line.

FIG. 24 shows another example of the hinge. The hinge 148 is formed between the first flat member 150 and the T-shaped second member 152. The hinge is formed at the center of the T-shape in a manner similar to the structure of the hinge 134 in the example of FIG. 22 and the hinge 142 in the example of FIG. In the inverted position, the upper surface of the T-shaped member 152 engages the lower surface of the flat member 150 to limit rotation about the hinge 148. The rotation of the hinge 150 is shown by a dotted line.

FIGS. 25, 26 and 27 show the foldable ear cover device 10 'in the deployed position (FIG. 26) and the folded position (FIGS. 25 and 27). For purposes of illustration, FIGS. 25 and 26 show only the frame portion of the ear cover device 10 '. However, as shown in FIG. 27, it is configured to include a cloth cover similar to the examples shown in the above-mentioned figures.

The band 18 'of the device 10' includes a first semi-circular member 154 and a second semi-circular member 156, which are engaged with each other to form a continuous arc. This engagement is performed by enclosing a part of each member 156 and 154 around the other member. The encased portion of the first semi-circular member 154 is designated by reference numeral 158. On the other hand, the envelope portion of the second semicircular member 156 is indicated by reference numeral 160.
Instead of mutual encapsulation of the two members, another ring or band (for example) is wrapped around one end of the first member 154,
It may be attached to this. These rings are the second member 15
It is also wound around the center of 6. In the final assembly, as shown in FIG.
0 is comprised of only a single layer, while the central portion 162 of the band 18 'is comprised of two overlapping layers. The two-layer portion can be expanded or contracted by sliding the two members 154 and 156 together so that the encapsulation portions 158 and 159 are closer together. Band 18 '
In order to shorten the overall length of the wrapper, the two encapsulating parts 158 and 159 are moved away from each other (the overlap 162 of the two parts).
Is longer, but the overall length of the band 18 'is shorter).

In FIGS. 25 and 26, the frustoconical portion 2
4 'forms the entire ear cup 164. Band 1
The connection between the ends 160 of the 8 'is a socket or opening at the end of the mounting head 166 and band 18' similar to the example of FIG. 16 (mounting head 98, also shown in FIGS. 19-22). It is desirable to form with. As shown,
The mounting head is inserted into the opening by press-fitting.
Optionally, the end 160 may be provided with an inverted V-shaped notch having a round opening at the top. The shaft of the mounting head in this example is held in the round opening by sliding into the notch and press-fitting. Yet another means is
The use of an opening of the type shown in FIG. 8 where one side is larger than the other. In this example, the enlarged diameter portion of the head portion is inserted into the larger opening, and then the shaft portion slides (by press fitting) into the smaller portion of the opening. Other removable and non-removable fixings (by rivets etc.) are also possible. This type of mounting structure allows the frustoconical portion 24 'to be pivoted about the mounting head 166 and the end of the band 18'.

As shown in FIG. 27, one frusto-conical portion 24 'formed inside the ear cover portion 16' is moved relative to the opposite ear cover portion 16 '(which also pivots). The center portion 14 (band 18 ').
) Form circular (or at least semi-circular) side walls between the parallel ear cover portions. in this way,
The folded ear cover device 10 ′ has a speaker wire 38.
And a male jack 39 (each indicated by a dotted line). Speakers 36 (also shown in dashed lines) are located within the ear covering device in the center fabric portion (FIG. 8E), each outer shell 46 (FIG. 8C) and inner ear member 6.
4 (FIG. 8F) is held in the pocket formed by the central opening 62.

FIGS. 28 to 38 show an embodiment of a frame for an ear protection device. The frame in this example is code 2
Indicated at 10. 28 and 29, the ear cup frame member 212 is shown. The ear cup frame member 212 has a semicircular frame member 214 at one end and two support flanges 21 formed as a center V-shaped portion.
6,218, an improved ear cavity having a mounting portion or flange 220 and two cup extensions 222,224. This improved ear cavity is shown in FIG.
Is shown in The semicircular frame portion 214 forms a central opening 226 with the support flanges 216,218. The mounting flange 220 is a supporting flange 216, 2
It extends outward from the apex of the eighteen V-shapes.

As shown in detail in FIGS. 29 and 30, the outer line of the cavity of the ear cup frame member 212 includes a semi-circular frame portion 214 and a cup extension 22.
2,224. These support flanges 216, 218 project above the ear cup to form a cavity for receiving the ear. Thus, the ear cup frame member 212 forms an open area formed by the height of the semicircular frame portion 214, the cup extensions 222, 224, and the projections of the support flanges 216, 218 above them.

As shown in FIG. 30, the frame 210 is
The band 230 includes a first curved portion 232 and a second curved portion 234. These two band portions 232
And 234 overlap and engage each other via passages 236 and 238. Passage 236 is at end 2 of the band.
It is located at one end of the band portion 234 opposite 28. The passage 238 forming a part of the band portion 232 is
It is located at the end of the band opposite the mounting end 226. The band portion 232 has notches or ratchet teeth on its inner surface to provide resistance to sliding movement of the passage 236 of the band portion 234 if the entire length of the band 230 is to be extended. These passages 236 and 238 have a lower portion on which the opposing band slides. As can be seen, the thickness of the band ends 226 and 228 increases in the region of the opening 246. The upper portion of the passage is formed by a passage 236 at the band end 226 of the band portion 232.
And the passage of the band end 228 of the band portion 234 into the passage 238. Each band end 226 and 228 has an opening 246 and 2 respectively.
It has projecting tabs 242 and 244 extending beyond 48, the openings receiving the mounting heads 250 of both ear cup frame members 212.

The mounting head 250 and the band portions 232,
The openings 246, 248 of the 234 allow rotation of the ear cup about the axis of the mounting head 250. When the band ends 226, 228 are aligned with the mounting flange 220, the tabs 242 and 244 form a moment arm that transfers the spring force created by the bending of the band 230 to the ear cup frame member. This allows the ear cup frame member to flex and engage around the wearer's ear. The semi-circular portion 214 deforms against the more rigid structure of the support flanges 216, 218 due to the "twist" created by the relief areas 252 on both sides of the ear cup frame 212. In addition, mounting flange 220 includes a plurality of raised ridges 254 on its outer surface. Slots are formed between the ridges, into which the ridges 256 on the inner surface of the tab 242 at the band end of the band portion 232 or the ridges 258 at the end 228 of the band portion 234 engage. Ridge 25 of mounting flange 220
4 into the slot formed by
The engagement of 58 allows the ear cup frame member 212 to be aligned with the band 230. This engagement can be released by slightly rotating the ear cup frame member 212 with respect to the band 230.

FIG. 31 is a sectional view showing an engagement relationship between the passage 236 at the end of the band portion 234 and the band portion 232. As described above, passage 236 has a first slot portion 260 in which the body of band portion 232 is engaged. The passage 236 is also provided with a second slot portion 262 through which the thickened portion of the tab 242 at the end of the band portion 232 passes.

The tab 242 at the end of the band portion 232 is shown in more detail in FIGS. Protruding tab 242
Extend outward from the end 226 of the band portion 232. The extension of the tab 242 creates an additional moment about the engagement of the mounting head 250 (FIGS. 20 and 30) within the opening 246. As shown in FIG. 33, the tab 242 has a narrower width than the main body of the band portion 232. As shown in FIGS.
2 is formed integrally with the band end 226 and protrudes from the lower or inner surface thereof. Therefore, the thickness of the band portion 232 adjacent to the opening 246 is greater than the remaining band portions. However, the increase in the thickness of the end 226 of the band portion 232 by the tab 242 is performed within a limited width. This width limitation is such that the end 226 of the band portion 232 can be inserted through the passage 236 of the mating band portion 234 during assembly. The tab 242 passes through the second slot portion 262, while the body of the band portion 232 passes through the first slot portion (FIG. 31) and overlaps the band portion 234. The difference in width ensures this overlap without excessive movement of band portion 232 within passageway 236. In addition, the edge of the first slot portion 260 in the passage 236 is in contact with the inner surface of the band portion 232 and the rib 2.
Assists with engagement with 40.

FIG. 32 shows the passage 23 of the band portion 232.
The engagement of 8 with band portion 234 is shown in cross section.
The passage 238 is formed similarly to the passage 236 at one end of the band portion 234. The main body of the band 234 is located in the first slot portion 266. 2nd slot part 2
68 is formed adjacent to the first slot portion 266 and a thickened portion of the end portion 244 (described in detail later).
Through.

FIGS. 36-38 show the structure of the end 244 of the band portion 234 attached to the ear cup frame member 212. FIG. End 244 of band portion 234 is provided with a raised area adjacent opening 248 for receiving mounting head 250 (FIGS. 28-30). FIG.
This raised area surrounds the opening 248 and has a width less than the main width of the band portion 234, as shown in more detail in FIGS. Due to this step in the thickness of the band portion, the end 24
4 can pass through passage 238 (FIG. 32). In particular, the raised area of band end 244 passes through second slot portion 268 of this passage 238.

Openings 24 at the ends 242 and 244 of each band
6 and 248 are formed by a circular center hole having three protruding slots 268 extending radially outward therefrom. Each opening 246 and 248 includes an upper chamber 270 and a lower chamber 272, as shown in cross-section in FIGS. 34 and 35 and 37 and 38. Upper chamber 270 has a larger diameter than lower chamber 272. A radially extending slot 268 is formed outwardly from the lower chamber 272. Further, a rib 274 is formed surrounding the opening forming the lower chamber 272. This rib 274 has an opening 246
248 project into the upper chamber 272. The rib 274 is discontinuous, and the slot 268 is
4 to the side wall of the lower chamber 274.

As shown in FIG. 30, the mounting head 250 includes a shaft connected at one end to the mounting flange portion 220 of the ear cup frame member 212. This shaft expands at the projecting end of the mounting head 250. Separate ear cup frame member 21
The two mounting heads 250 have two head portions 232,
234 are inserted into openings 246 and 248 of ends 242 and 244, respectively. The opening in the lower chamber 272 has a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft of the mounting head 250 and allows the ear cup frame member 212 to rotate about the axis of the shaft. Mounting head 250
Has a larger diameter than the opening formed by the lower chamber 272. This enlarged end is pressed into the upper chamber 270 through the opening of the lower chamber 272. Radial slot 268 is provided for mounting head 25
When the 0 is inserted into the openings 246, 248, it deforms the side walls of the lower chamber 272. The press-fit relationship between the mounting head 250 and the openings 246, 248 secures the ear cup frame member 212 to the end of the band 230.
Slots 268 provide flexibility to the side walls of lower chamber 272 of opening 246 to facilitate press fitting. Ribs 274 engage a lower portion of the enlarged end of mounting head 250. The rib 274 is provided in the mounting head 2
Limit 50 axial movements. Both slots 266,2
The 180 ° arc of the rib 274 extending between the protruding ends 242 and 244
It is located on the 8th side. With this arrangement, the openings 246,
The engagement between 248 and mounting head 250 is stabilized and play between band 230 and ear cup frame member 212 is reduced.

The overall structure of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28-38 is generally larger than that of the previous embodiment. Further, the hollow portion of the ear cup frame member 212 is configured to have a more semi-circular inner shape due to the provision of the support flanges 216 and 218 and the relationship with the mounting flange 220. The example frame 210 shown in FIGS. 28-38 includes a fabric cover similar to that previously described. In addition, FIGS.
It is also possible to provide a speaker as shown in FIG.

The frame of the above or other embodiments can be made of Crastin® material manufactured by DuPont. The Crastin® material is believed to be less susceptible to moisture changes than typical nylon materials and is less sensitive to temperature changes. These properties of the material and its high modulus of elasticity allow the frame to be thinner than when using a nylon material, as well as the preferred properties of the present invention.

Various other examples may be embodied without departing from the spirit or gist of the present invention,
Accordingly, the invention is not limited to the description herein, but it is necessary to refer to the appended claims as indicating the scope of the invention.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of the cover device intended to be worn by an individual.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of an ear cover device according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a side view of a frame of the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a front view of a frame of the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the frame of the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows a cover device incorporating a headphone speaker.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show components of the cover device shown in FIG. 6 and a headphone speaker.

FIGS. 8A to 8F show a set of cover panels forming the fabric cover of the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 14 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 16 shows a side view of an embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 17 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integrated hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 18 shows a side view of another embodiment of an "integral hinge" used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 19 shows a side view of another embodiment of an "integral hinge" used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 20 shows a side view of another embodiment of an "integral hinge" used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 21 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 22 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integrated hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 23 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integrated hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 24 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 25 shows a foldable frame for an ear cover device.

FIG. 26 shows the foldable frame of FIG. 25 in a deployed position.

FIG. 27 shows the ear cover device of the present invention in the folded position.

FIG. 28 is a partial plan view of another embodiment of the ear cover device of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a side view of the embodiment of the ear cover device shown in FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 shows a side view of the embodiment of the frame shown in FIGS. 28 and 29.

FIG. 31 is a sectional view taken along line 31-31 of the frame shown in FIG. 30;

32 is a cross-sectional view of the frame shown in FIG. 30, taken along line 32-32.

FIG. 33 is a partial detailed view of the frame shown in FIG. 30;

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 33 taken along the line 34-34.

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 33 taken along the line 35-35.

FIG. 36 is a partial detailed view of the frame shown in FIG. 30;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 36 taken along the line 37-37.

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 36 taken along the line 38-38.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Ear cover device 14, 18, 230 ... Flexible band 16 ... Ear cover 20, 212 ... Ear cup frame member 22 ... Attachment part (flange) 24 ... Frame part (frustoconical part) 32, 34, 232 234: curved portion 40: cloth cover 44: slot 70, 82, 94, 100, 110, 112, 118,
124, 142: hinge 74: base flange 256, 258: ridge

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Ronald El. Wilson The Second United States, West Virginia 26105, Vienna, Thirty First Street 705 F Term (Reference) 5D005 BD04 BD09 BD12 BE02

Claims (24)

[Claims] 1. A cover device configured to cover an individual's ear and extend behind a head or neck, comprising a central curved portion and two opposing ends. A band, two ear cups each having a cup portion attached to the opposite end of the band by a mounting flange and having a central opening, and cloth means covering both sides of the band and the ear cup; A cover device wherein the curvature of the central curved portion and the mounting flange with the cup portion cause the ear cups to move inward in opposite directions from the opposite ends of the band. 2. The ear cover device according to claim 1, wherein the cup portion has a truncated cone shape. 3. The ear cover device according to claim 1, wherein the mounting flange is formed integrally with the cup portion at an inclined angle. 4. The ear cover device according to claim 1, wherein said cloth means forms a pocket in a cup portion of said ear cup. 5. A cover device configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around a head or neck, comprising a first curved portion and a second curved portion, One end portion of the curved portion is overlapped with each other and slidably attached to each other, and has an adjustable relative length band; two ear cups including a cup portion having a center opening, wherein one ear cup is the ear cup; Two ends attached to the ends of the first and second curved portions opposite the overlapped end, wherein attachment of the cup to the band allows rotation of the cup portion about its attachment. A cover device, comprising: an ear cup; and cloth means for covering the band and both sides of the ear cup. 6. The cover device according to claim 5, wherein said cloth means surrounds said band and said ear cup. 7. The cover device according to claim 5, wherein the cup portion has a truncated cone shape. 8. A cover device configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around a head or neck, comprising: a first curved portion and a second curved portion; An adjustable relative length band having one end of the curved portion overlapping and slidably attached to each other; two ear cups respectively attached to the free ends of the first and second curved portions; And a cloth means for covering both sides of the band and the ear cup, the ear cup forming a cavity formed by two support flanges and a semi-circular frame portion extending between opposing projections of the support flange. The semicircular frame portion and the support flange form a central opening, and a mounting flange projects from the support flange in a direction opposite to the semicircular frame portion, wherein the mounting flange connects the ear cup to the first. And a means for rotatably mounting to the free end of the second curved portion. 9. The cover device according to claim 8, wherein the two support flanges are formed in a V-shape, and the mounting flange projects from an apex of the support flange. 10. The cover device according to claim 8, wherein said cloth means forms a pocket in a cavity of said ear cup. 11. The cover device according to claim 8, wherein said cloth means is composed of a plurality of cloth pieces. 12. The cover device according to claim 8, wherein the two ear cups are rotatably engaged at predetermined positions at free ends of the first and second curved portions and are in line with the band. 13. The portion of the band adjacent to the end of the first curved portion is not wider than the end of the first curved portion of the band, and the portion adjacent to the end of the second curved portion of the band. 9. The cover device according to claim 8, wherein is not wider than the end of the second curved portion of the band. 14. The cover device of claim 8, wherein the band and the two support flanges turn the ear cups inward in opposite directions to maintain the position of the device. 15. The cover device of claim 8, wherein the device maintains a position around the back of the head or neck of the individual without supporting around the top of the head of the individual. 16. A first curved portion having a protrusion at a first end and a passage at a second end, and a first curved portion having a protrusion at a first end and a passage at a second end. A band having two curved portions, each of said passages having a first slot allowing sliding of the opposed curved portion of the band, and allowing sliding of a protrusion of the opposed curved portion of the band. One end of each of the first and second curved portions overlapping and slidably attached to the opposing curved portion to adjust the relative overall length of the band; flame. 17. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising two ear cups having mounting heads, each mounting head being mounted on one protrusion of one curved portion of the band.
6. The ear warming frame according to 6. 18. The passage of the first curved portion of the band is formed integrally with the first curved portion of the band, and the passage of the second curved portion of the band is integral with the second curved portion of the band. The ear warming frame of claim 16, wherein the ear warming frame is formed integrally. 19. The first curved portion of the band has a series of ridges on an inner surface thereof, the ridges engaging a overlap formed by a second curved portion of the band,
17. The ear warming frame of claim 16, wherein the ear warming frame is configured to resist relative sliding movement of both curved portions when adjusting the overall length of the band. 20. A cover device adapted to cover an individual's ear and extend around the back of the head, the flexible band having one central curved portion and two ends. Two ear cups, one of which is attached to each end of the band, wherein at least a portion of the ear cup is frusto-conical and has a central opening; A cover device including cloth means for covering the flexible band. 21. The cover device according to claim 20, wherein said cloth means and said ear cup form a pocket, and an opening means is formed in said cloth means for inserting an earphone into said pocket. 22. The flexible bunt has an inside and an outside, each of the ear cups has an inside and an outside, and the cloth means covers the inside and outside of the flexible band, and 21. The cover device according to claim 20, wherein the cover device covers the inside and outside of the ear cup. 23. The cover device according to claim 20, wherein the ear cup is hingedly connected to both ends of the band. 24. The hinged connection between the end and the band is formed by a living hinge.
2. The cover device according to 1.