JP2004041804A - Ear cover device and ear heat insulating frame - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ear cover device and ear heat insulating frame which improve earmuffs for protecting individual ears. <P>SOLUTION: The ear cover device which extends to the back of the head or neck of a wearer consists of a flexible band and two ear cups attached to its both ends. This band expands a space between both ear cup members by its flexibility and enables a cover device to wear on the back of the head. Each ear cup has a truncated cone type frame part with a central opening. A fabric covers this truncated cone type part and the flexible band of the ear cup. The truncated cone type part forms a pocket with the fabric. A suitable material can be used for providing the heat insulation and protection of ears and comfortable properties. When an earphone is inserted into the pocket, an ear protecting device and a headphone can be combined. By hinging the ear cup on the band, the cover device may be folded when it is not used. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

The present invention relates to a cover that is worn on and protects an individual's ear. The cover is configured to extend behind the head or neck of an individual when worn.
The invention also relates to an ear protection device incorporating an audio earphone or the like.

This application is a continuation-in-part of pending US patent application Ser. No. 08 / 460,587, filed on Jun. 2, 1995.

Many devices are known for covering an individual's ear for heat retention and the like. Some of these devices, commonly known as "ear muffs", are disclosed in Rosenberg et al. U.S. Pat. No. 3,249,949 and Rubinstein et al. U.S. Pat. No. 3,509,580. These prior art earmuffs have a band that wraps over the head, the enlarged ends of which cover the ears to keep them warm and protected.

Another means of securing the ear protection structure is disclosed in US Patent No. 2,070,216 to Rosenberg, which is in the form of a headband. Edwards in U.S. Pat. No. 5,201,856 shows a device that is wrapped around the temporal side of an individual 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.

US Patent No. 548,738 to Ballard shows an ear and neck protection device that is wrapped around the back of the 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 a practice. Krawangna U.S. Pat. No. 3,787,899 shows an earmuff with audio speakers. Spates U.S. Pat. No. 4,864,619 shows a stereo headset in a headband. U.S. Pat. No. 5,257,420 to Byrne, Jr. shows a cover for a standard headphone.

Various earmuffs and headbands exist, but an object of the present invention is to further improve the conventional ear protection device.

The present invention relates to a cover device worn on 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 having cup portions attached to opposite ends of said band by mounting flanges and having a central opening, and cloth means covering both sides of said band and said ear cups, wherein the central curved portion of said band And a mounting flange with said cup portion directs said ear cups inwards in opposite directions from opposite ends of said band.

に お い て In a preferred embodiment, the cup portion has a truncated cone shape.

In a preferred embodiment, the mounting flange is formed integrally with the cup portion at an inclined angle.

In a preferred embodiment, 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; One end of each of the curved portions is overlapped with each other and slidably attached to each other. 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. An ear cup and cloth means for covering the band and both sides of the ear cup.

In a preferred embodiment, the cloth means surrounds the band and the ear cup.

に お い て In a preferred embodiment, the cup portion has a truncated cone shape.

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 having 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, and The band includes a band and 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 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. 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 an apex 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 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 individual's head or neck without supporting the upper part of the individual's head.

The present invention further provides an ear insulation frame, the ear insulation frame having a first curved portion having a protrusion at a first end and a passage at a second end, and a protrusion at a first end. A band having a second curved portion having a passage at a second end thereof, each said passage having a first slot allowing sliding of an opposed curved portion of the band, and a band of the band. A second slot portion for allowing the protrusion of the opposed curved portion to slide, whereby one end of each of the first and second curved portions overlaps and is slidably attached to the opposed curved portion; The relative length of the band is adjusted.

In a preferred embodiment, the ear insulation frame further comprises two ear cups having mounting heads, each mounting head being mounted on one protrusion of one curved portion of the band.

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 to provide the band. When adjusting the overall length of the two curved portions, it is configured to resist the relative sliding movement of the two curved portions.

Furthermore, 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, said cloth means and said ear cup form a pocket, and opening means are formed in said cloth means for inserting an earphone into said 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 embodiment, the ear cup is hingedly connected to both ends of the band.

In a preferred embodiment, the hinged connection between the end and the band is formed by an integral 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 functional to be worn by all individuals for ear protection. It is also intended to form an ear cover device.

For the purpose of describing the present invention, the form that is presently preferred is shown in the drawings, but it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this configuration or device itself.

The accompanying drawings show various forms of the ear cover device according to the present invention, and the same reference numerals refer to the same parts. As shown in FIG. 1, the ear cover device is generally designated by the reference numeral 10. The ear cover device 10 is configured to cover and wear 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 includes 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. 2 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 is created by the curvature of the band 14 and the shape of the frame of the ear cover 16 (details are shown in other figures). 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. The increased distance between the two ear covers 16 allows the ear cover device 10 to be worn on the head of the individual 12, as shown in FIG. 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.

FIGS. 3 to 5 show the frame structure of the ear cover device 10. This frame comprises one flexible band 18 and two ear cup frame members 20. The ear cup 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 attachment portion 22 is formed at an 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 frustoconical portion 24 is configured to be in the range of about 90-160 °, preferably about 145 °. The flexible band 18 has an end 26 that engages the mounting portion 22 of the ear cup frame member 20. As shown in FIG. 3, the end 26 engages a slot 28 in the mounting portion 22 and is secured thereto by a rib 30. At the end 26, a claw (not shown) may be provided at the end 26 of the flexible band 18 so that the ear cup frame member 20 does not come off between the two ribs 30.

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 ends are formed by bending the ends of the curved portion 32 and are separated by a distance X as shown in FIG. This distance X is preferably about 3.5 to 4.5 inches (about 8.9 to 11.4 cm), and more preferably 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 and the like can be used. Prior to mounting the ear cover device 10 on the head 12, the band 18 is sufficiently large so that the relative distance X between the two ends 26 can be increased 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 desirably 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 base of the frustoconical portion is configured to be in the range of about 2.7-4 inches (preferably about 6.9-10.2 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 this height is about 0.25 inches (about 0.6 cm), the sidewall angle 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 an ear cover device 10 having a pair of speakers or earphones 36 and speaker wires 38 incorporated therein. The earphone 36 and the speaker wire 38 are also shown in FIG. 7B separately from the ear cover device 10. 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).

6 and 7 (A), the ear cover device 10 includes 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 illustrated, 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 retain 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, the slots 44 are located adjacent to the respective ear covers 16.

布 As shown in FIGS. 8A to 8F, the cloth cover 40 is composed of a plurality of layers. FIG. 8A shows a plan view of the ear cover device 10 in the deployed position. 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 also covers the inner surfaces of the band 18 and the ear cup 20 frame member.

複数 Multiple layers of fabric are used to form the fabric cover 40 for the ear cover device 10. These layers are shown generally in FIGS. 8 (C)-(F). FIG. 8C 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. The inner cloth cover 52 substantially covers the inner surface of the band 18. The inner cloth cover 52 overlaps the central portion 56 shown in FIG. The central portion 56 has a set of bands 42 and openings 60 at its center and a circular portion 58 at each end. A center opening 62 is provided inside the circular portion 58. 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. An 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 is located above the central opening 62 of the circular portion 58 and the corresponding central portion 56. A curved boundary 66 is provided adjacent one end of the inner ear member 64 and forms a slot 44 for inserting the earphone 36 in the final structure, as shown in FIGS.

層 These layers of the cloth cover 40 are joined by sewing or the like. The fabric cover can include an outer pipe 68. This pipe 68 may be formed as part of one of the layers of the fabric cover 40 or added to it as a separate element.

Any number of materials can be used to construct the fabric cover 40. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the pipe 68 may be a wear-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 inner ear member 64 are preferably made of a synthetic fleece lining material to provide warmth and comfort. This inner ear member 64 directly contacts the individual 12. It is also possible for the exposed outer shell 46 to be made of a fleece material. The fleece material has been found to adequately protect each component and to allow sound to pass.

FIGS. 9-23 show examples of hinges used to construct the connection between the mounting portion 22 of the ear cup frame member 20 and the frustoconical portion 24. FIG. Each example will be described below. These examples have an integral hinged structure. The living hinge used in the present invention has a small cross-section between the base flange and the mounting flange, and comprises a continuous plastic structure that allows 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, and when not in use, the ear cover 16 can be folded into the band 14 to reduce the size of the ear cover device 10. The mounting flange 72 is provided with a rivet hole 76. The engagement between the mounting portion 22 'and the flexible band 18 (not shown in FIG. 9) may be provided by rivets (not shown). Rotation of the ear cup frame member 20 'about the rivet hole or opening 76 allows the ear cover 16 to be folded into the band 14 portion.

FIG. 10 shows another example of an ear cup frame member 20 "having a frustoconical frame portion 24 and an improved integral hinge 70 '. The mounting portion 22" includes an inverted T-shaped mounting flange 72. 'And an L-shaped base flange 74'. The connection between the inverted T-shaped mounting flange 72 'and the L-shaped base flange 74' forms an integral hinge 70 'to limit the amount of outward rotation of the frustoconical portion 24 relative to the mounting portion 22 ". This hinge 70 'allows the frustoconical portion 24 to rotate inward toward the mounting portion 22 "when the ear cover device 10 is folded. A rivet hole 76 is again provided in the mounting flange 72 'to secure the mounting portion 22 "to the end of the flexible band 18 (described above).

FIG. 11 shows yet another example of an ear cup frame member 20 "". In this example, the mounting flange 72 "is substantially flush with the base flange 74", with a hinge 70 "therebetween. Is provided. Slots or grooves are provided as part of this integral hinge 70 "to allow the frustoconical portion 24 to rotate inwardly by a limited amount relative to the mounting flange 72". Also in this example, mounting flange 72 "is secured to band 18 (described above) by rivet holes 76 or 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 "". In this example, a base flange 74 "". Comprises an L-shaped member in which one leg of the L is substantially flush with the mounting flange 72 "". There is an integral part between the L-shaped flange 74 "" and the mounting flange 72 "". A hinge 70 "" is provided and the projection of the L-shaped flange 74 "" serves to prevent the frustoconical portion 24 from fully rotating relative to the mounting flange 72 "'.

FIGS. 13 to 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.

台 In FIG. 13, the frustoconical portion 24 has a protruding tab 78. The 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 part 80 of the hinge 82 has a flat base 81 and a curved projection 84. A curved projection 84 encloses 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 comprises a protruding tab 78 'having a central slot. A tab 86 on the fixed portion 88 engages in a slot in the tab 78. A pin 90 forms the hinge axis and extends through the ends of the tabs 78 and 86.

FIG. 15 shows another example of the hinge structure for the ear cup frame. The frustoconical portion 24 has two projections 92 formed on the inner surface. The protrusion 92 engages both sides of a protruding tab 86 'formed as part of the fixed portion 88. A pin (not shown) forms a hinge axis and extends through projection 92 and tab 86 'of fixed portion 88.

FIG. 16 shows an integral hinge having a shape similar to that of the example of FIG. Hinge 94 has a V-shaped notch 95 formed in flat portion 96. A mounting head 98 projects from the left side element of the flat portion 96 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 an integral hinge. The hinge 100 is formed between the first base member 102 and the second base member 104. The 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. The displacement of hinge 100 is shown by the dotted line.

FIG. 18 shows an integral hinge having a shape similar to that of the example of FIG. 10 described above. The first base member 106 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 shown 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 formed between the first base member 114 and the second base member 116. The first and second base members 114 and 116 each have a curved portion at each end to enable the hinge 112 to be formed. The curved ends interengage to limit downward rotation of the second base member 116 (as shown). The upward rotation of the member 116 is indicated by a dotted line.

FIG. 20 shows still another example of the integral hinge 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 upward rotation of the tab 126 about the hinge 124 is limited, as shown by the dotted line. The upper surface of tab 126 engages the end of curved portion 130. The hinge 124 is formed by pressing a 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 engaging 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 formed between the first flat member 144 and the L-shaped second member 146. When the hinge 142 is folded, the L-shaped second member 146 engages the upper surface of the second member 146 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 in the folded position (FIGS. 25 and 27). For the purpose 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 have a cloth cover similar to the example shown in each of the above-mentioned figures.

The band 18 'of the device 10' comprises 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 encased 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 may be (for example) encased around one end of the first member 154 and attached thereto. These rings are also wound around a central portion of the second member 156. As shown in FIG. 26, in the final assembly, the end 160 of the band 18 '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. To reduce the overall length of the band 18 ', the two encased portions 158 and 159 are moved away from each other (the overlap 162 of both portions is longer, but the overall length of the band 18' is shorter).

25 and 26, the frustoconical portion 24 'forms the entire ear cup 164. The connection between the ends 160 of the band 18 'may be a socket or a socket at the end of the band 18' and a mounting head 166 similar to the example of FIG. 16 (mounting head 98, also shown in FIGS. 19-22). It is desirable to form with an opening. 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 to use 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 pivot about the mounting head 166 and the end of the band 18'.

As shown in FIG. 27, one frustoconical portion 24 'formed inside the ear cover portion 16' is flattened with respect to the opposite ear cover portion 16 '(which also rotates). Rotating so that the central portion 14 (covering the band 18 ') forms a circular (or at least semi-circular) side wall between the parallel ear cover portions. In this way, the folded ear cover device 10 'can hold the speaker wires 38 and the male jacks 39 (each indicated by a dotted line). Speakers 36 (also shown in dashed lines) are located in the ear covering device at the central fabric portion (FIG. 8E), the center opening 62 of each outer shell 46 (FIG. 8C) and the inner ear member 64 (FIG. 8F). It is held in the formed pocket.

FIGS. 28-38 show an embodiment of a frame for an ear protection device. The frame in this example is indicated by reference numeral 210. 28 and 29, the ear cup frame member 212 is shown. The ear cup frame member 212 includes a semi-circular frame member 214 at one end, two support flanges 216, 218 formed as a central V-shaped portion, a mounting portion or flange 220, and two cup extensions 222, 224. And an improved ear cavity having: This improved ear cavity is shown in FIG. Semi-circular frame portion 214 forms a central opening 226 with support flanges 216,218. The mounting flange 220 extends outward from the V-shaped apex of the support flanges 216,218.

外側 As shown in detail in FIGS. 29 and 30, the outer line of the cavity of the ear cup frame member 212 is formed by cup extensions 222, 224 with a semi-circular frame portion 214. 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 includes a band 230 including a first curved portion 232 and a second curved portion 234. The two band portions 232 and 234 overlap and engage each other via passages 236 and 238. The passage 236 is located at one end of the band portion 234 opposite the band end 228. A passage 238 that forms part of the band portion 232 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 and is configured to resist 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 allows passage of band end 226 of band portion 232 to passage 236 and passage of band end 228 of band portion 234 to passage 238. Each band end 226 and 228 has a protruding tab 242 and 244 extending beyond an opening 246 and 248, respectively, which receives the mounting head 250 of both ear cup frame members 212.

The openings 246, 248 in the mounting head 250 and the band portions 232, 234 allow for 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 transmits 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. The engagement of the ridges 256, 258 into the slots formed by the ridges 254 of the mounting flange 220 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 shows a cross section of the 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. A protruding tab 242 extends outwardly from end 226 of band portion 232. Extending 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 width smaller than the main body of the band portion 232. As shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, the tab 242 is integrally formed with the band end 226 and protrudes from its lower or inner surface. Accordingly, 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 edges of the first slot portion 260 within the passage 236 assist in engaging the rib 240 with the inner surface of the band portion 232.

FIG. 32 shows, in cross section, the engagement between the passage 238 of the band portion 232 and the band portion 234. 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. A second slot portion 268 is formed adjacent the first slot portion 266 and passes through a thickened portion of end 244 (described in more detail below).

36-38 show the structure of the end 244 of the band portion 234 attached to the ear cup frame member 212. End 244 of band portion 234 is provided with a raised area adjacent opening 248 for receiving mounting head 250 (FIGS. 28-30). As shown in greater detail in FIGS. 37 and 38, this raised region surrounds the opening 248 and has a width that is less than the main width of the band portion 234. This step in the thickness of the band portion allows the end 244 of the band portion 234 to pass through the passage 238 (FIG. 32) during assembly. In particular, the raised area of band end 244 passes through second slot portion 268 of this passage 238.

The openings 246 and 248 in the ends 242 and 244 of each band 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 periphery of the opening forming the lower chamber 272. The rib 274 projects into the upper chamber 272 of the openings 246 and 248. The rib 274 is discontinuous and the slot 268 extends through the rib 274 to the side wall of the lower chamber 274.

As shown in FIG. 30, the mounting head 250 has 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. The mounting head 250 of the separate ear cup frame member 212 is inserted into the openings 246 and 248 of the ends 242 and 244 of the two head portions 232 and 234, 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. The enlarged end of the mounting head 250 has a larger diameter than the opening formed by the lower chamber 272. The enlarged end is pressed into the upper chamber 270 through the opening of the lower chamber 272. The radial slots 268 deform the sidewalls of the lower chamber 272 as the mounting head 250 is inserted into the openings 246,248. 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 limits the axial movement of the mounting head 250 in the openings 246,248. A 180 ° arc portion of the rib 274 extending between the slots 266 and 268 is located on the side of the opening 246 and 248 opposite to the protruding ends 242 and 244. This arrangement stabilizes the engagement between the openings 246, 248 and the mounting head 250 and reduces play between the band 230 and the ear cup frame member 212.

全体 The overall structure of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28-38 is generally larger than the structure of the earlier embodiments. Further, the hollow portion of the ear cup frame member 212 is configured to have a semicircular inner shape due to the provision of the support flanges 216 and 218 and the relationship with the mounting flange 220.

フ レ ー ム The example frame 210 shown in FIGS. 28-38 has a fabric cover similar to that previously described. In addition, a speaker as shown in FIGS. 6, 7b, 27 can be provided inside the ear cover device 210.

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 can be embodied without departing from the spirit or gist of the present invention, and therefore, the present invention is not limited to the description of the present specification, and the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Reference should be made to the appended claims as an indication.

1 shows one embodiment of the cover device intended to be worn by an individual. It is a top view of an ear cover device concerning the present invention. It is a side view of the frame of the cover device of the present invention. It is a front view of the frame of the cover device of the present invention. It is a bottom view of the frame of the cover device of the present invention. 2 shows a cover device incorporating a headphone speaker. (A) and (B) show the components and the headphone speaker of the cover device shown in FIG. (A)-(F) show a set of cover panels forming the fabric cover of the present invention. 5 shows an embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention. 5 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention. 5 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention. 5 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention. 5 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention. 5 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention. 5 shows another embodiment of the means for hingedly connecting the ear cover device of the present invention. Figure 4 shows a side view of an embodiment of an "integral hinge" used in the cover device of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an “integral hinge” used in the cover device of the present invention. 4 shows a foldable frame for an ear cover device. 26 shows the foldable frame of FIG. 25 in the deployed position. Figure 2 shows the ear cover device of the present invention in a folded position. FIG. 7 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. 30 shows a side view of the embodiment of the frame shown in FIGS. 28 and 29. FIG. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the frame shown in FIG. 30, taken along line 31-31. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the frame shown in FIG. 30 taken along line 32-32. FIG. 31 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. 34 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 33 taken along the line 35-35. FIG. 31 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. 37 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 36 taken along the line 38-38.

Explanation of reference numerals

10 ear cover devices 14, 18, 230 flexible band 16 ear covers 20, 212 ear cup frame member 22 mounting part (flange)
24 ... Frame part (frustum-shaped part)
32, 34, 232, 234 Curved portion 40 Cloth cover 44 Slots 70, 82, 94, 100, 110, 112, 118, 124, 142 Hinge 74 Base flange 256, 258 Ridge

Claims (24)

A cover device configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around the back of the head or neck,
A band having one central curved portion and two opposing ends,
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 of the band and the mounting flange with the cup portion cause the ear cups to move inward in opposite directions from opposite ends of the band. The ear cover device according to claim 1, wherein the cup portion has a truncated cone shape. The ear cover device according to claim 1, wherein the mounting flange is formed integrally with the cup portion at an inclined angle. 2. The ear cover device according to claim 1, wherein the cloth means forms a pocket in a cup portion of the ear cup. A cover device configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around the back of the head or neck,
A band having a first curved portion and a second curved portion, one end of each of the curved portions being overlapped with each other and slidably mounted, and having an adjustable relative overall length;
Two ear cups including a cup portion having a central opening, wherein one ear cup is attached to an end of the first and second curved portions opposite the overlapped end and the band of the cup; A cover device, comprising: two ear cups whose attachment to the cup allows rotation of the cup portion about its attachment, and cloth means covering both sides of the band and the ear cup. The cover device according to claim 5, wherein the cloth means surrounds the band and the ear cup. The cover device according to claim 5, wherein the cup portion has a truncated cone shape. A cover device configured to cover an individual's ear and extend around the back of the head or neck,
A band having a first curved portion and a second curved portion, one end of each curved portion overlapping each other and slidably mounted, and having a relative adjustable overall length;
Two ear cups respectively attached to the free ends of said first and second curved portions, and cloth means covering both sides of said band and said ear cups;
The ear cup forms 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 defining a central opening. A mounting flange is formed from the support flange in a direction opposite to the semi-circular frame portion, the mounting flange including means for rotatably mounting the ear cup to the free ends of the first and second curved portions. , Cover device. 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. 9. The cover device according to claim 8, wherein the cloth means forms a pocket in the cavity of the ear cup. 9. The cover device according to claim 8, wherein said cloth means is composed of a plurality of cloth pieces. 9. The cover device of claim 8, wherein 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. 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 the second portion of the band. 9. The cover device according to claim 8, wherein the cover device is not wider than an end of the two curved portions. 9. The cover device of claim 8, wherein the band and the two support flanges direct the ear cups inwards in opposite directions to maintain the position of the device. 9. 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 individual's head. A first curved portion having a projection at a first end and having a passage at a second end; and a second curved portion having a projection at a first end and having a passage at a second end. Including the band,
Each of the passages has a first slot to allow sliding of the opposed curved portion of the band, and a second slot to allow sliding of the protrusion of the opposed curved portion of the band; An ear insulation frame, wherein one end of each of the first and second curved portions overlaps and is slidably mounted on the opposed curved portion to adjust the relative overall length of the band. 17. The ear warming frame of claim 16, further comprising two ear cups having mounting heads, each said mounting head being mounted on one protrusion of one curved portion of the band. 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 formed integrally with the second curved portion of the band. 17. The ear warming frame of claim 16, wherein: 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 to adjust the overall length of the band. 17. The ear warming frame of claim 16, wherein the ear warming frame is configured to resist relative sliding movement of the two curved portions when performing. A cover device configured to cover an individual's ears and extend around the back of the head,
A 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 frustoconical and has a central opening; and the ear cup and the flexible A cover device including a cloth means for covering the conductive band. 21. The cover device of claim 20, wherein the cloth means and the ear cup form a pocket, and an opening means is formed in the cloth means for inserting an earphone into the pocket. The flexible bant 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 an inside of each of the ear cups. 21. The cover device according to claim 20, wherein the cover device covers the outside. 21. The cover device according to claim 20, wherein the ear cup is hingedly connected to both ends of the band. 24. The cover device according to claim 23, wherein the hinged connection between the end and the band is formed by an integral hinge.

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