TWM553618U - Ear cover assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

Described is an ear cover assembly having two ear covers, each ear cover having a rotatable mounting located in an upper portion of the ear cover and a resilient frame comprising a right end portion, a central portion, and a left end portion. Each of the right end portion and the left end portion being configured to attach to a respective one of the ear covers via the rotatable mounting. The central portion is configured to orient the right end portion and the left end portion to hold ear covers opposite one another for placement in use to cover a wearer's ears, and to support an eye cover assembly. The resilient frame is configured to apply clamping force to urge the ear covers inwardly to hold the assembly in place on the wearers head. The rotational mounting is configured to limit relative movement between the frame and ear cover in a direction perpendicular to a main axis of rotation of the mounting, and the relative geometry of the frame and rotational mounting are configured to distribute clamping force over the ear cover.

Description

Earmuff assembly

The field of creation is for eye mask and earmuff assemblies that support the earmuffs on the wearer's head without headband and also support the eyewear. Applications for this component include the combination of ear and eye protection for secure ear and eye protection or consumer products.

Eye protection safety equipment such as safety goggles or anti-glare covers are known. These devices provide a barrier in front of the wearer's eyes for protection against scattering particles or liquid spray. The barrier layer will typically be transparent or translucent to enable the wearer to see through the barrier layer. Conventional hearing protection safety devices include earmuffs or earplugs that are worn to attenuate sound or silence to minimize hearing damage that can occur from exposure to noisy environments. Earmuff-style ear protectors provide more effective hearing protection than earplugs and are therefore preferred for use in many environments. In some workplaces, it is mandatory to wear safety equipment such as goggles, ear protection, and head guards.

The problem of the earmuffs is the sealed state of the wearer's ear made of soundproofing filler. If the safety glasses or even normal glasses are worn, the sealing state will be broken, thus reducing the provided soundproofing performance. Again, the earmuffs are typically held in place by the headband, which can interfere with the cap, such as a safety head guard. In some applications, this problem is overcome by providing a safety cap with an earmuff attached, and in some cases a safety glare shield. However, this is an integrated full-featured device that provides "all or nothing" protection, such as when the wearer removes their helmet, they also remove the hearing protection and eye protection. There may be some cases where it is safe Hat protection is not necessary or desirable, but other hats will be useful, such as cutting grass in the open air, and we would prefer to wear a hat that provides sun protection and a cooler than a hard hat.

There is a demand for the practicality and comfort of pursuing safety equipment. The solution that has been proposed is to provide a combined eye protection and ear protection device to which the goggles are mounted. Some of the proposed devices include a headband to help support the device on the wearer's head, which can interfere with the cap. Other proposed solutions use tension from the goggles to hold the device in place on the wearer's head. It may be difficult to achieve this by providing the goggles with the tension of the earmuffs on the wearer's ears and holding the earmuffs in place without the use of the headband. Therefore, the headband or the helmet-mounted earmuffs are still typically used in the past.

The present invention provides an earmuff assembly comprising: two earmuffs, each earcup having a rotatable mount in the upper portion of the earmuff; an elastic frame comprising a right end portion, a central portion, and a left end portion Each of the right end portion and the left end portion is configured for attachment to an individual one of the ear cups via the rotatable mount; the central portion is configured for the right end portion And the left end portions are oriented to face each other in use to retain the ear cups, cover the wearer's ears, and support the eyecup assembly; the elastic frame is configured to apply a clamping force, Retaining the earmuff assembly inwardly on the wearer's head in an inwardly biased manner; the rotary mount is configured to limit the direction perpendicular to the rotational main axis of the mount The relative motion between the frame and the earmuffs, and the relative geometry of the frame and the rotary mount, are configured to distribute the clamping force over the earmuff.

In some implementations, the relative geometry of the frame and the rotary mount A torque can be applied.

In some embodiments, the torsional force is provided by the frame elasticity and the angular orientation of the left and right end portions in the individual rotary mounting members when worn.

In some embodiments, each of the individual rotary mounts is configured to hold the individual left end portion and the right end portion such that the individual left end portion and the right end portion are stuck in any rotational orientation. The lowest part of the rotary mounting member is at an angle from the center of the earmuff to the highest portion of the left end portion and the right end portion that is caught in the rotary mounting member. This torque is caused when worn.

In some implementations, each of the rotary mounts is oriented such that the plane of rotation is at an angle relative to a plane passing through the ear cover and the ear contact surface, and includes for receiving the individual left end portion and the right end portion a passageway that is offset from a rotational main axis of the mounting member toward a center of the ear cap, wherein the left end portion and the right end portion are configured to engage one or more surfaces in the passageway, The surface in the channel is constructed such that in a rotational position when the channel is substantially perpendicular to the meridian line passing through the center of the earmuff, the surfaces cause the individual left end portion and The right end portion is longitudinally twisted to cause the torsion when worn, and in a rotational position when the passageway is substantially parallel to the meridian passing through the center of the earmuff, since the passageway passes the earmuff The angle at which the ears contact the plane of the surface causes the individual left end portions and the right end portions to flex in the longitudinal direction to provide the torsional force when worn.

In one embodiment, the left end portion and the right end portion have planar portions for engaging the surfaces within the rotating mount.

A rotary mount for each earcup can be included in a fixed position in a rotating mount socket in the upper portion of the earcup, and one or more rotary assembly components are received in the socket Forming a rotary plug including the passage, and wherein the socket is oriented such that The plane of rotation of the plug is at an angle relative to a plane passing through the ear contacting surface of the ear cup.

In one embodiment, the two ear cups are asymmetrical and include a left ear cup and a right ear cover such that the socket of each ear cup is oriented such that the rotation plane of the plug passes through the The ear cup is at an angle to the plane of the ear contact surface, while allowing the exact same plug to be used to assemble the rotary mount for each of the left and right ear cups.

In one embodiment, the frame includes an elastic skeleton that spans the right end portion, the central portion, and the left end portion of the frame and provides elasticity to apply the clamping force. In one example, the elastic frame is a long curved band and is substantially flat through the left end portion and the right end portion. The belt may be formed of an elastic metal.

In another alternative embodiment, the tape has a composite structure of elastomeric material contained in one or more layers of the laminate structure.

The frame may additionally comprise a non-metallic coating. In an embodiment, the non-metallic cladding layer increases the elasticity of the frame.

The frame can additionally include a non-elastic eyewear assembly mount that is configured to mount the eyecup assembly to the central portion.

In one embodiment, the earmuff assembly is configured to allow adjustment of the position of each earcup along the respective left or right end portion.

In one embodiment, the rotary mounting member is constructed with a passage to allow the rotary mounting member to slide along the respective left end portion or the right end portion.

In one embodiment, the left end portion and the right end portion further comprise a pawl portion, and the rotary mounting member is configured for the pawl portion provided on the respective left end portion and the right end portion Engagement to inhibit unintentional sliding of the rotary mounting member along the respective left or right end portions.

In another alternative embodiment, the rotary mounting member and the individual left end portion The surface friction between the portion or the right end portion prohibits unintentional sliding of the rotary mounting member along the respective left or right end portions.

The earmuffs can be earmuff style ear protectors constructed to provide hearing protection for the wearer. In one embodiment, each ear protector includes an inner soundproof portion adapted to rest against the outer ear of the wearer and substantially or completely cover the outer ear of the wearer; and the outer body is made of a hard material It is made and attached to the inner soundproof portion, wherein the rotary mount is attached to the outer casing of the ear protector.

In one embodiment, the outer casing has a removable portion adapted to be selectively removed and replaced, whereby an aperture is formed in the outer casing when the removable portion is removed .

In one embodiment, the sound insulation quality of the ear protector can be adjusted by adding or removing additional sound insulating material through the apertures in the outer casing.

In an embodiment, at least one of the ear cups includes an electronic device including a receiver and a horn. The receiver can be a wireless transceiver.

In one embodiment, the earmuff is constructed as a pair of earphones.

In one embodiment, the earmuffs are constructed as left and right stereo headphones.

In some implementations, the eye shield assembly includes a goggle assembly. For example, in some implementations, the goggle assembly can be constructed as any of safety glasses, eye protection masks, or masks.

In another embodiment, the eye shield assembly is constructed for use with sunglasses.

In some implementations, the eye shield assembly can be configured to include a vision correction lens.

In an embodiment, the eyecup assembly is configured to be capable of removing an attached vision correction lens.

In one embodiment, the eye shield assembly includes an integrated vision correction lens.

In an embodiment, the eyecup assembly is removably attached to the frame.

An embodiment further includes a microphone assembly. In one embodiment, the microphone assembly is mounted on a lever for positioning the microphone assembly next to the wearer's mouth, the lever being attached to the earmuffs via a second rotary mount One of them.

4a‧‧‧ earmuffs

4b‧‧‧ earmuffs

100‧‧‧ earmuff assembly

110‧‧‧ earmuffs

120‧‧‧Rotatable mounts

130‧‧‧ Frame

210‧‧‧ center part

220‧‧‧right part

230‧‧‧ left end

240‧‧‧ earmuffs

250‧‧‧ earmuffs

260‧‧‧ eye mask assembly

410‧‧‧ earmuffs

420‧‧‧Installation

430‧‧‧ earmuffs

435‧‧‧ earmuffs

440‧‧‧Eccentrically mounted belt

450‧‧‧ upper

455‧‧‧ lower

460‧‧‧ Center

470‧‧‧distance d

505‧‧‧ line

510‧‧‧Clamping force

520‧‧‧Power application point

530‧‧‧ top edge

535‧‧‧ bottom edge

540‧‧‧distance d1

550‧‧‧distance d2

605‧‧‧ Straight line

610‧‧‧ earmuffs

615‧‧‧ frames

620‧‧‧Rotary mounts

630‧‧‧ eye mask

640‧‧‧ earmuffs

650‧‧‧ angle

660‧‧‧ head

680‧‧‧ side

710‧‧‧ Frame end

720‧‧‧ earmuff side

740‧‧‧ Strength

750‧‧‧Repose position

810‧‧‧Rotation axis

820‧‧‧Rotary mounts

830‧‧‧End

840‧‧‧ side edge

850‧‧‧With

910‧‧‧Top position

920‧‧ ‧ eye-catching position

Section 930‧‧‧

Section 940‧‧‧

950‧‧‧ earmuffs

1010‧‧‧Repose position

1020‧‧‧ outward flexing position

1030‧‧‧Outward deflection

1110‧‧‧Repose position

1120‧‧‧ Wearing position

1210‧‧‧ earmuffs

1220‧‧‧Installation

1230‧‧‧Upper edge

1240‧‧‧ bottom edge

1250‧‧‧ Frame

1260‧‧‧Rotation axis

1270‧‧‧ earmuffs

1330‧‧‧ top edge

1340‧‧‧ bottom edge

1350‧‧‧ frames

1360‧‧‧Applying point

1410‧‧‧End

1450‧‧‧ Frame

1610‧‧‧ channel

1620‧‧‧Rotary mounts

1650‧‧‧ Frame

Section 1670‧‧‧

1710‧‧‧ Earmuffs

1715‧‧‧ Ear contact edge

1720‧‧‧Rotary mounts

1725‧‧‧Rotating plane

1730‧‧‧ passage

1735‧‧‧Rotating main axis

1740‧‧‧ Earmuffs Center

1750‧‧‧ Frame end

1760‧‧‧ Meridian

1810‧‧‧ earmuffs

1815‧‧‧ earmuffs

1820‧‧‧ socket

1821‧‧‧Small lock components

1822‧‧‧Large lock components

1823‧‧‧Large lock components

1825‧‧‧ socket

1830‧‧‧Assembled components

1835‧‧‧Rotary Mounting Plugs

1840‧‧‧Assembled components

1850‧‧‧ channel

1855‧‧‧An angled surface

2110‧‧‧Main rotary plug components

2111‧‧‧ bayonet features

2112‧‧‧ bayonet features

2113‧‧‧ bayonet features

2120‧‧‧spring arm

2150‧‧‧ channel

Embodiments of all aspects of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, and FIG. 1 shows an example of a combined eye and ear protector according to an embodiment of the present invention; 2a to 2d show the device of Fig. 1 from different angles; Figs. 3a to 3d illustrate the range of motion of the eyecup frame relative to the earcup; Figs. 4a and 4b illustrate the central positioning mounting for the earmuff 4a and for positioning in the ear The difference in the force application of the mounting member in the upper portion of the cover 4b; FIG. 5 illustrates the power distribution problem as a side view of the person wearing the ear protector and the eye protection device of FIG. 1, indicating that the goggles are raised; FIG. The earmuffs in the initial (resting) position; Figure 7 shows the earmuff of Figure 6 in the position on the wearer's head; Figure 8 illustrates the frame that flexes when worn on the top of the head, The earmuff is mounted at a preload angle; Figure 9 represents the top of the head and the position of the eyecup strip; Figure 10 illustrates the rest and the end of the frame when flexed in the position on the top of the head; Figure 11 compares Describe the rest when wearing in the eye-catching position (lower position) and the end of the frame 12 illustrates the embodiment of the cap-like state, so that the frame located in the head and on the left; Fig. 13 illustrates the cap of FIG. 12, so that the frame bit position, and left-eye shutter; Figure 14 illustrates the earmuff of Figure 12 with the frame in the eye-catching position and the earmuff in the wearing position; Figure 15 illustrates the torque applied by the frame in the eye-catching position when worn; Figures 16a and 16b illustrate the passages for gripping the ends of the frame in the embodiment of the earmuff assembly; Figures 17a and 17b illustrate the geometry of the earmuffs and the rotary mounting member in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 18 illustrates an embodiment of a rotary mount for an asymmetrical earmuff; Figure 19 shows a left earmuff; Figure 20 shows the left earcup and a rotary mount ready for assembly; Figures 21a through 21d show Various views of the main components of the rotatable mount example of 18; and Figures 22a through 22c illustrate adjusting the position of the earmuff along the end of the frame.

An aspect of the present invention provides an earmuff assembly having an elastic frame attached to an earmuff via a rotatable mount located in an upper portion of the earmuff, the elastic frame being configured to apply a clamping force to The earmuff is held in place over the wearer's ear, and the geometry of the frame and the rotary mount are configured to distribute the clamping force over the earmuff to be worn when worn The assembly is held in place. As such, the earmuff assembly can be supported in position by the rotationally mounted frame rather than the headband. For example, in one embodiment, the frame is strapped to support the safety glasses, the strap supporting both the safety glasses and the earmuffs when worn. This embodiment does not have a headband and can therefore be worn with a variety of headwear, such as a hard hat, a wide-brimmed sun hat, a beanie, and the like. In another embodiment, the frame can support the sunglasses. The ear cups can be any type of earmuffs, such as hearing protection earmuffs, earphones, headphones, thermal earmuffs, and the like.

An embodiment of the earmuff assembly is illustrated in Figure 1, and various views are shown in Figures 2a through 2d. The earmuff assembly 100 includes two earmuffs 110, each earcup having a The rotatable mount 120 in the upper portion of the cover 110 and the elastic frame 130 including the right end portion 220, the central portion 210 and the left end portion 230. Each of the right end portion 220 and the left end portion 230 is configured for attachment to an individual one of the ear cups 240, 250 via the rotatable mount 120. The central portion 210 is configured to orient the right end portion 220 and the left end portion 230 to be in position relative to one another in use, retaining the ear cups 240, 250 to cover the wearer's ear, and The eyecup assembly 260 is supported. The elastomeric frame 130 is configured to apply a clamping force to urge the ear cups 240, 250 inwardly to retain the assembly in position on the wearer's head. The rotary mounting member 120 is configured to limit the relative movement between the frame 130 and the ear cups 240, 250 in a direction perpendicular to the main axis of rotation of the mounting member, and the relative orientation of the frame 130 and the rotary mounting member 120 The geometry is configured to distribute the clamping force over the earmuff.

Applicants have previously devised a combined ear protector and eye protection device having an earmuff style protector held in position on the wearer's head by tension provided by the goggle assembly, and There is no need to support the headband. A comprehensive description of the Applicant's original combination of hearing and eye protection devices can be found in International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2010/022440, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. An advantage of the device designed by the Applicant is that the goggle assembly is coupled to the two earmuffs ear protectors using a mounting member that faces the upper edge of the ear protector. This means that when worn, each connection between the ear protector and the visor assembly will be positioned towards the top or top of the wearer's ear relative to the wearer's ear. This high pivot mounting position provides a number of advantages, including any one or more of the following: ‧ allows the ear protector to be swung away from the wearer's ear without disturbing the goggles; ‧ the goggles are easily rotated away from the fit The wearer's eyes (eg to the top of the head) without interfering with the ear protector; ergonomically designed to allow the goggle assembly to be shaped like more general safety glasses and/or to enable normal glasses to be The device is easier to wear together; and ‧ the majority of the ear protector cover is exposed, enabling the space to be utilized for other items, such as being more product competitive or for changing the aperture of the earmuff assembly - such as adding another insulation or A device, such as a Bluetooth headset.

A combined self-standing ear and eye protection device without a headband has been previously proposed, where a rotary mount for the eye protection or anti-glare cover is centrally positioned over the ear protector. This is because the center mount will evenly distribute the clamping force over the ear protector to hold the ear protector in place on the wearer's ear. Moving the mounting point to the upper portion of the ear protector device presents a technical problem that will effectively distribute the clamping force over the earmuff to support the device in position without the need to support the headgear.

Figure 4a schematically illustrates an embodiment of an earmuff 410 having a centrally located mounting member 420, such as the same as the conventionally supported overhead headband. The force from the belt is applied to the center of the earmuff, which results in a uniform distribution of forces. The point clamping force (10F) applied to the centrally located mounting point 420 is evenly distributed over the ear cup 410 so that the force on the top of the ear cup 430 (5F) is equivalent to The force of the bottom of the earmuff 435 (5F). This is due to the symmetry of the point 420 that the ear cup is applied about the clamping force. However, when the mounting point for the rotary mount is not the center of the earmuff, the force applied to one point (i.e., the clamping force) is no longer evenly distributed over the earmuff. Figure 4b illustrates this problem, where an eccentrically mounted strap (high pivot point) 440 is used which is applied eccentrically, resulting in an uneven distribution of forces. The mounting member 440 is biased from the center of the ear cup 460 by a distance d 470. Since the eccentric mount 440 causes a non-uniform force (10F) distribution, a stronger clamping force (7.5F) than the lower portion 455 (2.5F) of the ear cap 410 is applied to the upper portion 450. The difference in the external force of the upper portion 450 and the lower portion 455 of the ear cup 410 will depend on the position of the mounting member 440 relative to the center 460 of the ear cup 410. As shown in FIG. 5, the force distribution problem can be represented by a line 505 from the top edge 530 to the bottom edge 535 of the earmuff, and a point 520 along the line 505 represents the mounting position and thus The The clamping force 510 of the belt is applied at this point 520, which is distributed along the line 505. The force application point 520 is located at a distance d1 540 from the top edge 530, and the distance between the top 530 and the bottom edge 535 is d2 550. This force distribution can be calculated: F x d1=R1 x d2 [Equation 1]

Here, F is the applied point force, d1 is the distance from the force applying point 520 to the top edge 530, d2 is the distance between the top edge 530 and the bottom edge 535, and R1 is at the bottom edge 535. Reaction force. This force is based on the distance from the point at which the force is applied. Here d1=1 and d2=4, the force at the individual end is calculated:

As such, the force at the top edge 530 is R2 = 7.5F, and the force at the bottom edge 535 is R1 = 2.5F. It is indicated that the application of the eccentric force of the high mounting point will result in uneven clamping pressure.

To compensate for the uneven clamping force due to the high mounting position, the geometry of the frame and the rotary mount are configured to distribute the clamping force over the earcup. In various embodiments, the rotary mounting member is configured to limit relative movement between the frame and the earmuff in a direction perpendicular to a major axis of rotation of the mounting member, and the relative orientation of the frame and the rotary mounting member The geometry is configured to distribute the clamping force over the earmuff.

In one embodiment, the frame is configured to apply a torsion to the earmuff to provide additional clamping force at the lower end of the earcup. In such embodiments, the elasticity of the frame is utilized to apply an angular force to the earmuff to increase the force applied to press the lower portion of the ear cup to the wearer's head inwardly. An embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 6, where the earmuffs 610 in the initial (resting) position are held by the geometry of the frame 615 and the rotary mount 620. At one angle, the lower edge of the earcup 640 will be more inwardly toward the wearer's head 660 than the top of the eyecup 630, so that the side 680 of the earmuff 610 that will contact the wearer's head 660 will be contacted. The line 605 is held at an angle 650 relative to the line, which is used to model the point force distribution. Moreover, in this embodiment, the rotary mounting member 620 is configured to hold the end of the frame 615, which is clamped in the mounting member in a substantially fixed position, and in the mounting member In the rotating portion, the relative angular movement between the earmuff and the frame perpendicular to the axis of rotation is thereby limited. By holding the frame and the rotating portion of the mounting member in a relatively fixed position, the frame can apply an angular force to the earcup at a position on the wearer's head 660, such as, for example, Shown in Figure 7. Figure 7 shows the earmuff 610 of Figure 6 in a position on the wearer's head 660. In Figure 7, the frame 615 is flexed 710 outwardly from the rest position 750, and thus an angular force is applied to increase the force 740 applied to the lower edge 640 of the earmuff. The combination of the frame clamping force and the additional torque creates a uniform clamping force over the side 720 of the ear cup that contacts the wearer's head 660. In one embodiment, the preload angle for the earmuff to provide torque to the frame is about 10 degrees.

In one embodiment, the relative geometry of the frame and the rotary mount exert a torque. The frame is retained in a relatively fixed position within the rotatable portion of the rotary mount to limit relative movement between the frame and the mount perpendicular to the main axis of rotation of the rotary mount. The frame and the rotary mount are constructed such that the earmuff is held at a preloaded angle when resting and at an angle inwardly at the bottom of the earmuff. This can be achieved by having the ear contacting surface of the earmuff at an angle relative to the rotary mounting. For example, the rotary mounting member can be a disk and a pivotal mounting such that the end of the frame is positioned within the disk to allow force from the frame to be distributed over the disk. The disc 620 is angled relative to the side 720 of the earmuff, causing the end of the frame to flex outwardly 710 when in the position on the wearer's head. It should also be noted that the rotational axis 810 of the rotary mount is perpendicular to the disc and will be angled toward the center of the wearer's ear rather than toward the top of the ear.

The frame can be formed to have a curved band 850 that is curved around the wearer's head and across the face, having a relatively straight side edge 840 and an end 830 for engaging the rotary mount 820. In the example shown in Figure 8, the end 830 is configured for flexing to provide the additional torsion while the sides 840 remain fairly straight and parallel to the wearer's head for ease of use in The movement between the eye-catching position and the position on the top of the wearer's head or below. For example, materials having different elastic properties can be used in different parts of the frame. In another example, the thickness of the strip, and thus the elastic properties, can vary differently in different regions of the strip. Alternatively, the frame can be formed in a variety of curves or bends to control flexing and frame shape in the resting and wearing position. Other implementations are foreseeable.

In one embodiment, the torque is provided by the frame elasticity and the angular orientation of the left and right end portions within the individual rotary mounting members when worn. Figures 7 and 8 show the torque applied by the frame when in the position above the head. However, as shown in FIG. 9, the earmuff assembly is configured to move the frame between at least one of the top positions 910 and the eye-catching position 920. Sections 930 and 940 are shown in more detail in Figures 10 and 11 to further illustrate the end of the frame for the present embodiment when resting and when worn on the overhead and eye-catching positions, respectively. . Figure 10 provides a comparative illustration of the end of the frame for the position 930 on top of the head. As noted above, in the overhead position, the end of the frame 910 will be straight at rest 1010 and flex outwardly 1020 when worn. In this example, when the frame is overhead (upright), the band will flex about 10 degrees when worn to apply torque to the earmuff. The amount of outward deflection 1030 of the frame material and the elasticity determine the torsional force applied to the earcup 950 through the end of the frame.

When in the eye-catching position, the frame is made horizontal and the torque still needs to be applied. To apply additional force to compress the lower portion of the earcup inwardly and provide a more uniform clamping force in the eye-catching position, the frame is configured to also be longitudinally distorted (e.g., 10 degree twist). As shown in FIG. 11, in the eye-catching position, the frame is relatively stationary when it is worn 1120. The longitudinal distortion provides additional torque. In the wearing position 1120, the end of the frame 910 is longitudinally twisted to cause the lower edge of the frame to be angled outwardly relative to the wearer's head. This torque provides additional clamping force to the underside of the earmuff.

It will be appreciated that the biasing of the mounting position results in the frame being resiliently imparting a torque to the frame of the lower edge of the earmuff, any configuration of the earmuffs and the mounting member to improve clamping of the ear cups. And any such organization is considered to be within the scope of this creation.

In one embodiment, the relative geometry of the mount and the frame provides for the torque of the frame in both the overhead and the eye-catching positions. Embodiments can also be located below the lower portion of the frame. In one embodiment, each of the rotary mounts is configured to hold the end of the individual frame such that any orientation of the frame when the frame is worn, the end of the frame is clamped within the mount The lowest portion is angled outwardly relative to the uppermost portion of the frame portion held in the mounting member to thereby cause the torque when worn. It will be appreciated that maintaining the lowest edge of the frame at an angle will cause the frame to resiliently apply a torsion while pressing the lower edge inwardly. When lowered to the eye-catching position to apply additional torque, the frame can be longitudinally distorted such that the rotational mount is at an angle that is at an angle to the side of the earcup (as illustrated) in Figures 6-8.

A challenge is located in the eye-catching position to provide this torque to a relatively narrow frame. A narrow frame may be desirable as it would typically require less material to be manufactured, more likely to not limit the line of sight, be lighter, and be more comfortable to wear. Furthermore, having a narrower frame can also allow for more design choices for both aesthetics and functionality. For example, a relatively narrow frame is allowed to act as a skeleton for decorative, sleek design elements, such as a skeleton for a sunglass frame. A relatively narrow frame can be relatively light to enable a relatively heavy eye mask assembly, such as a protective mask, durable safety goggles or an anti-glare cover to be supported.

In an embodiment, the problem is caused by having a bias from the main axis of rotation The center of the earmuff is treated at the frame mounting position within the rotary mount. This has the effect of reducing the distance between the center of the earmuff and the clamping position of the frame when the frame is in the eye-catching position. In sequence, this reduces the difference in the distribution of the clamping force between the upper and lower ends of the earmuff. When the frame is in the eye-catching position, this can require a lower additional torque for more uniform clamping when the frame is in the eye-catching position. This is explained in more detail with reference to Figures 12 to 15. 12 shows the earmuff 1210 attached to the frame 1250 using the rotary mount 1220 with the frame 1250 positioned on top of the head and resting, with the earmuff 1210 at the bottom edge 1240 opposite the upper edge 1230. Pointing into the interior. The clamping force 10F applied by the belt 1250 to the axis of rotation 1260 of the mounting member 1220 (without additional torque in this position) will be unevenly distributed, at the top edge 1230 (7.5F) than the bottom edge 1240 (2.5F) has a strong clamping force. The offset d1 between the force application points 1260 from the center of the earmuff 1270 causes this uneven distribution of forces. As discussed above in an embodiment, the frame is supported in a mounting member that is offset by the pivot point such that in the eye-catching position (horizontal), the frame is retained on the axis of rotation of the mounting member Below, closer to the center of the earmuffs. Figure 13 illustrates the effect of the force distribution when the point at which the clamping force is applied 1360 is closer to the centerline 1270 of the earmuff 1210. In this example, here d2 < d1, the difference in the clamping force distribution of the frame 1350 (10F) between the top edge 1330 (6F) and the bottom edge 1340 (4F) of the earmuff 1210 is less. Thus, when worn, the smaller additional torque that is twisted through the frame in the eye-catching position 1350 is sufficient to hold the earmuff in place. Figure 14 shows the earmuff 1210 in the wearing position, twisting the end 1410 of the frame 1450 to apply additional force to balance the offset (higher) mounting point. In this example, as shown in Figure 15, a distortion of about 7 degrees may be sufficient. It should be understood that since the frame attachment point is below the axis of the rotary mount, which is closer to the center of the eyecup in the eyecup position, the load condition of the earmuff is different between the overhead and the position of the eyecup frame. . And a smaller torque can be used in the eyecup position. This allows the frame to require less distortion.

Figure 16a shows an example of an embodiment in which the channel 1610 for holding the end of the frame 1650 in the rotary mount 1620 allows for the frame to be twisted when the frame 1650 is moved between overhead and to the eye-catching position. The difference. This section 1670 is shown in more detail in Figure 16b. In this embodiment, the channel 1610 has an angled wall to allow some movement of the frame within the channel, and to limit the rotational motion such that the frame will engage the walls, causing distortion of the frame. . In this embodiment, the walls are angled to allow the frame 1650 to move only 3 degrees 1660 within the channel 1610. Thus, the relative angle of the mounting member to the side of the earmuff is 10 degrees, so that the relative angle between the ear cup and the frame is reduced to 7 degrees, as shown in FIG. 16a. . It should be understood that other relative angles can be used in different embodiments, and the geometry selected can also depend on the elasticity of the frame material.

Figures 17a and 17b show an embodiment of the relative geometry of the ear cup and the rotary mounting. The rotary mount 1720 is oriented such that the plane of rotation 1725 is at an angle relative to the plane of the ear contact edge 1715 of the earmuff. The rotary mount 1720 includes a channel 1730 for receiving the frame end 1750 that is offset from the rotational main axis 1735 of the mount 1720 in the direction toward the earmuff center 1740. The frame end 1750 is configured to engage one or more surfaces within the channel 1730. For a wearing position where the earmuff 1710 is attached to the wearer's ear and the frame is lowered to a blindfold position (substantially horizontal), the channel 1730 will be substantially perpendicular to the passing The meridian 1760 of the earmuffs is as shown in Figure 17b. The surface within the channel 1730 is configured such that in a rotational position, the channel is substantially perpendicular to a meridian 1760 passing through the center of the earmuff, the surfaces causing the frame end 1750 to be longitudinally distorted to This torque is caused when worn. A frame 1750 for use in a position on top of the head, as previously shown in Figures 6 through 8, the channel 1730 will be substantially parallel to the meridian 1760 passing through the center of the earmuff, and since the channel 1730 is opposite The plane of the ear contact edge 1715, in contact with the surface of the channel, causes deflection of the end of the frame to cause the torque when worn. Should be Knowing that when the device is worn, the angle of rotation of the rotary mounting member relative to the ear contacting edge and the plane of the biasing channel will cause the lowest portion of the frame to pressurize the wearer's head outwardly. Torque is applied to the rotary mounting member by the frame. This torsion exerts additional force to the lower portion of the earmuff to compensate for the uneven clamping force due to the rotary mount being tied over the center of the earmuff.

In one embodiment, the ends of the frames are planar for engagement with surfaces within the passage of the rotary mount. However, other embodiments are foreseen, such as in one embodiment, the frame may be a wire and the ends bent to engage the channel surfaces. Alternatively, the frame ends can have a contour that is shaped to cooperatively engage a surface within the channel, such as having a projection to engage a surface in the channel. In one embodiment, the frame is substantially a flat, elastic band that is shaped to bend around the wearer's face and has a planar shape for engaging the surface within the rotary mount. Ends.

Preferred embodiments of the earmuffs and the rotary mount assembly are illustrated in Figures 18-20. In this embodiment, each of the ear cups 1810, 1815 includes a rotary mount socket 1820, 1825 in a fixed position in the upper portion of the ear cups 1810, 1815, and one or more are received therein. Rotary assembly components 1830, 1840 in the socket to form a rotary plug that includes a passage 1850 for receiving the end of the frame. The sockets 1820, 1825 are oriented such that the plane of rotation of the plug is at an angle relative to the plane of the ear contacting edge of the ear cup. In this embodiment, the ear cups have a rigid outer casing in which the socket is formed. The hard outer casing is typically used for safety applications and for electronic earphones, which provide good sound insulation properties due to the rigidity. However, other embodiments are also contemplated, such as a soft shell earcup having a rigid frame member for maintaining the relative orientation of the rotary mount and the earmuff edge as described above, this embodiment may be suitable for use with A pair of warm earmuffs and a frame for wearing skiing or otherwise outdoor activities in a cold and bright state form sunglasses.

It should be understood that in any embodiment, once the earmuff device is assembled, the device will have left and right configurations to provide the distortion due to the relative orientation between the individual ear cups and the frame. The goggle assembly will typically also have a portion that is shaped to rest on the wearer's bridge of the nose. The device can be assembled using symmetrical ear cups with left and right fabric mounts, and once assembled, is formed to provide a relative angular orientation for the earmuffs. Alternatively, the ear cups can be asymmetrical.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 18, the two ear cups are asymmetrical and the earmuff device comprises a pair of left and right ear cups. In this embodiment, the left and right ear cup housings are asymmetrical due to the offset pivot position for the frame. The sockets 1820, 1825 of each asymmetrical earcup are oriented such that the plane of rotation of the plug of the rotary mount is at an angle relative to the plane passing the edge of the ear contact, allowing the same plug to be used The rotary mount is assembled for each of the left and right ear cups. In this embodiment, the rotary mount plug 1835 (shown assembled in FIG. 20 and also referred to as a pivot joint) includes a primary rotary plug component 1830 and a cover 1840. The primary rotary plug assembly includes an angled face 1855 within the frame receiving passage 1850 to cause the frame angle to be adjusted and distorted in the eyelet orientation as described above. The angle of the surface of the channel 2150 can also be seen in Figure 21d. The primary rotary plug component can be molded into a self-lubricating acetal polymer. The primary rotary plug can also be constructed to use a minimum contact point with the socket to reduce surface friction between the surfaces and to provide rotational portability. Embodiments may also include recesses and recesses to allow dust and debris that may collect in the pivot cavity to be distributed away from the rotating contact surface. This can be a selective feature as it is particularly advantageous for embodiments of the eye and ear safety devices that are constructed for harsh environments, such as industrial or mining. This feature may be less important for implementations that are constructed for urban use, such as for stereo headsets.

The embodiment of the main rotary component is shown in more detail in Figure 21a to In 21d. Figure 21a shows the underside of the primary rotary plug component 2110. The primary rotary plug component 2110 can also include bayonet members 2111, 2112, 2113 for retaining the rotary mount plug in the socket, which are also constructed for individual left or right side operations. The rotary mount is correctly oriented in the socket. For example, this embodiment shows the use of a small bayonet entry lock member 2111 to engage the small lock component 1821 formed in the forward portion of the socket 1820 (shown in Figure 19), and The large bayonet enters the lock members 2112, 2113 to engage the larger lock components 1822, 1823 formed in the socket 1820. An external view of this spring lock member 2113 is also shown in Figure 21c. These socket lock components are constructed in each socket to ensure that the mount has the proper orientation. This means that the same component can be used on either side with the possibility of reduced errors during assembly.

The primary rotary component can also be constructed for spring locking into the socket. In the illustrated embodiment, the larger bayonet members 2112, 2113 comprise spring loaded spring locking members. The rotary mount also includes means for locking the cover to the plug. The rotary mounting member can also include a spring arm 2120 for the pawl adjustment mechanism to enable adjustment of the position of the mounting member along the end of the frame, such as for different head sizes and enabling the The frame position is adjusted, such as by the wearer's chin. Figures 22a through 22c illustrate different positions of the earmuff along the end of the frame.

This embodiment can have manufacturing advantages, such as ease of assembly, by removing the need to ensure correct pairing of the left and right rotary mounting plugs with both the left and right ear cups. The ability to utilize both identical left and right swivel mounts reduces manufacturing costs by reducing parts. This can also be advantageous for managing spare parts and repairs.

The frame is an important component in the assembly, the elasticity of the frame providing both clamping and torsion to hold the earcup in place. The frame includes a central portion that is shaped to surround the wearer's head and orient the earmuff, and is configured for use with the rotary mount Engage the individual left and right ends. The central portion is configured to support an eye mask assembly, which may be any form of anti-glare cover or goggles. The frame can include an elastic skeleton that spans the right end portion, the central portion, and the left end portion of the frame and provides elasticity to apply the clamping force.

In one embodiment, the elastic frame is a slender curved band and is substantially flat through the left end portion and the right end portion. The belt can be formed from an elastic metal. Alternatively, the tape may have a synthetic construction comprising one or more layers of material. The material can be joined or laminated to provide elastic properties. In one embodiment, the tape has a composite structure comprising one or more layers of elastomeric material in a laminated structure.

In one embodiment, the tape has a non-metallic coating. For example, for applications where exposure to metal is undesirable or prohibited, the frame may have a metal frame of polymer coating. In one example, Australian safety regulations for mining operations do not allow the safety device to have any exposed metal. For such applications, if the frame comprises an elastic metal strip, this can be encapsulated in a plastic or another non-metallic cladding.

In one embodiment, the coating layer enhances the elastic properties of the frame. The non-metallic cladding layer can increase the elasticity of the frame. For example, for a metal band style frame, the addition of a plastic cover layer increases the rigidity of the frame and increases the clamping force and torque that can be applied by the frame. For example, if a plastic coating is used, the thickness and/or hardness of the plastic coating can achieve the rigidity of the entire frame. The type of material coating can be selected based on the target of the band properties, and can also be based on the target application for the device. In one embodiment, different cladding layers can be used in different regions of the frame to modify the elastic properties throughout the length of the frame. For example, a substantially rigid or rigid plastic coating can be used in the area of the eyeglass frame in which the eyeglass assembly is mounted. This may be desirable to limit or prevent the deflection of the frame from being transferred to the eyecup assembly. For example, for safety glasses, the frame can include a non-elastic eyewear assembly mount that is configured to mount the eyecup assembly to the central portion.

Eye shield assemblies for security applications may include constructed as safety glasses, eye protection masks or masks. An implementation aspect can include a bulletproof eye shield assembly. In another embodiment, the eye shield assembly can be constructed as a pair of sunglasses. In another embodiment, the eye shield assembly can include an anti-glare cover or lens that is configured to reduce eye strain, such as the anti-glare cover or lens including a material or coating to filter some of the eye fatigue associated with Light wavelength. In one example, the eye shield assembly can be constructed as game glasses that are configured to reduce eye strain by filtering some "blue light" wavelengths associated with eye fatigue. The game eyewear assembly embodiment can also be constructed to enhance game play experience, such as polarized light, capable of stereoscopic effects, reduced screen glare, enhanced image color and contrast, and the like. In another embodiment, the eye shield assembly can include a virtual reality anti-glare cover or goggles, smart glasses, a camera, and the like.

Optical means, such as night vision goggles or binoculars, may also be included in embodiments of the eye shield assembly. In some implementations, the eye shield assembly is configured to include a vision correction lens. The eye shield assembly can be configured to removably attach a vision correction lens. For example, the frame can include an aperture or recess to enable insertion of a vision correction lens. Alternatively, the vision correction lens can be attached to an anti-glare cover that can be mounted on the frame, the anti-glare cover being removable. Alternatively, the anti-glare cover can be secured to the frame and the ear cup can be removably attached to the ear protector. For example, the assembly tool set can include a frame with a sunglass glare shield and a frame with a safety glass glare shield, and a pair of ear cups attachable to either frame. The eye shield assembly can include an integrated vision correction lens. The eye shield assembly can also be removably attached to the frame.

The earmuff assembly can be configured to allow adjustment of the position of each earcup along the respective left or right end portion. For example, the mount can be configured to enable the earmuff to slide along the frame, as shown in Figures 22a-22c. In one embodiment, the rotary mount is constructed with a passage to allow the rotary mount to slide along the end of the individual frame. In an embodiment, the frame end portion includes a pawl portion, and the rotary mounting member is constructed for Engaging with the pawl portion to inhibit unintentional sliding of the rotary mounting member along the end of the frame. For example, the rotary mounting plug shown in Figure 21a includes a pawl adjustment spring to engage a pawl portion on the end of the frame to inhibit unintentional movement along the end of the frame.

In another alternative embodiment, the surface friction between the rotary mounting member and the end of the individual frame prevents unintentional sliding of the rotary mounting member along the end of the individual frame.

The earmuffs can be earmuff style ear protectors constructed to provide hearing protection for the wearer. In one embodiment, each ear protector includes an inner soundproof portion adapted to rest against and substantially or completely cover the wearer's outer ear; and the outer casing is made of a hard material and attached To the inner isolation portion, wherein the rotary mount is attached to the outer casing of the ear protector. In one embodiment, the rotary mounting socket is formed in the rigid outer casing. The housing can include a removable portion adapted to be selectively removed and replaced. For example, this may enable the sound insulation quality of the ear protector to be adjusted by adding or removing additional sound insulating material through the apertures in the outer casing.

In another embodiment, at least one of the ear cups includes an electronic device including a receiver and a speaker. The receiver and speaker can be wired or wirelessly connected to devices such as mobile phones, radios, music players, computers, mixers, and the like. The receiver can be a wireless, such as an FM, AM, DAB receiver. The receiver can also be a wireless transceiver, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, two-way radio, and the like. For example, the earmuffs may include a Bluetooth hands-free communication device for use with devices such as mobile phones, computers or music players. Alternatively, the ear cups can include a two-way radio.

Implementations can also include a microphone that extends from one of the eye shields. The microphone can be part of a two-way radio or telecommunications device. Alternatively, the microphone can be coupled to a computer system or another device via a wired or wireless connection. Embodiments having a microphone can have at least one earcup that incorporates a horn. In an embodiment, the component includes a headset and a microphone wind. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a stereo headset, a microphone, and an eyecup assembly that are configured for gaming. In another alternative embodiment, the assembly can be constructed for use in industrial, law enforcement, protection services, fire or military applications, and includes wireless two-way communication devices in the ear cups and microphones. In one example, the microphone is attached to an earmuff, such as a rod attached to the earmuff via a fixed or adjustable mount that is configured to support immediately when worn A microphone to the wearer's mouth. The lever mount can be a second rotary mount that enables the microphone position to be adjusted relative to the wearer's mount without interfering with the earmuff. In another embodiment, the microphone is embedded in the earmuffs.

In another embodiment, the ear cups are constructed as a pair of earphones. In one example, the ear cups can be stereo headphones. For example, the ear cups can have a wireless Bluetooth or WiFi receiver for listening to music from a mobile phone or music player. In this embodiment, the eye shield can be sunglasses or vision correction glasses.

In some embodiments, the eyecup assembly can have some vision correction properties, such as the eyecup assembly can be configured to enable a prescription lens to be built into the device. The goggle assembly can also be colored and/or polarized to provide protection from sunlight and glare.

A known problem with earmuff style earmuffs is that when wearing safety binoculars or glasses, the soundproof seal between the earmuffs and the wearer's head is broken. The arms of the eyeglasses push the earcup away from the wearer's head, sometimes causing significant clearance. This will reduce the sound protection provided to the wearer. This is a well-known problem with all earmuff style ear protectors currently available on the market. Furthermore, it can be uncomfortable to press the safety glasses or safety goggle arms into the earwear of the wearer's head. The degree of discomfort can also increase as time passes. This is not only a problem with safety equipment, but also for wearing headphones, such as for listening to music with sunglasses or glasses. The embodiment of the present invention provides a solution to this problem by means of a combined earmuff and eye mask device capable of varying configurations.

Those skilled in the art of this creation will appreciate that many improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

In the scope of the subsequent patent application and in the foregoing description, the word "comprising" or such as "comprises" is used as the meaning of the expression language or the need, except where otherwise required. "or" "comprising" is used in the sense of inclusion, that is, the existence of the stated component is specified, but the existence or addition of additional components is not excluded in the various embodiments of the present invention.

It will be appreciated that if any prior art art announcement is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute a license in Australia or any other country that forms part of the common sense in the art.

120‧‧‧Rotatable mounts

130‧‧‧ Frame

210‧‧‧ center part

220‧‧‧right part

230‧‧‧ left end

240‧‧‧ earmuffs

250‧‧‧ earmuffs

260‧‧‧ eye mask assembly

Claims (36)

An earmuff assembly comprising: two ear cups, each ear cap having a rotatable mounting member located in an upper portion of the ear cup; an elastic frame comprising a right end portion, a central portion, and a left end a portion; each of the right end portion and the left end portion is configured for attachment to an individual one of the ear cups via the rotatable mount; the central portion is configured for the right end portion And the left end portions are oriented to be in position relative to each other in use to retain the ear cups, cover the wearer's ears, and support an eyecup assembly; the elastic frame is configured to apply clamping a force to hold the earmuff cover inwardly in position on the wearer's head; the rotary mount is configured for rotating a main axis perpendicular to one of the mounts The relative movement between the elastic frame and the earmuff is limited in the direction, and the relative geometry of the elastic frame and the rotary mounting is configured to distribute the clamping force over the earcup. The earmuff assembly of claim 1, wherein the elastic frame and the relative geometry of the rotary mounting member apply a torque. The earmuff assembly of claim 2, wherein the torsion is caused by the elasticity of the elastic frame and the angular orientation of the left end portion and the right end portion in the individual rotary mounting member when worn. Provided. The earmuff assembly of claim 3, wherein each of the individual rotary mounting members is configured to hold the respective left end portion and the right end portion such that for any rotational orientation, the individual The lowest portion of the left end portion and the right end portion that are caught in the rotary mounting member is the highest portion of the left end portion and the right end portion that are caught in the rotary mounting member. The center of the earmuff is angled outwardly to thereby cause the torque when worn. The earmuff assembly of claim 4, wherein each of the rotary mounting members is set Orienting such that its plane of rotation is at an angle relative to a plane passing through the ear cover and the ear contact surface, and includes a passage for receiving the respective left end portion and the right end portion, the passage being supported by the mounting member The main axis of rotation is offset toward the center of the ear cap, wherein the left end portion and the right end portion are configured to engage one or more surfaces in the channel, the surface in the channel being constructed such that When the channel is substantially perpendicular to a rotational position through a meridian of the center of the earmuff, the surfaces cause the left end portion and the right end portion to be longitudinally distorted to cause the wear when worn Torque, and when the channel is substantially parallel to a rotational position of the meridian passing through the center of the earmuff, the surfaces are individual due to the angle of the channel relative to the plane of the ear-to-ear contact surface The left end portion and the right end portion are flexed longitudinally to provide the torque when worn. The earmuff assembly of claim 5, wherein the left end portion and the right end portion have a planar portion for engaging the surfaces in the rotary mounting member. The earmuff assembly of claim 5, wherein the rotary mounting member for each earmuff is included in a fixed position in a fixed position in a rotating mount socket in the upper portion of the earmuff, and One or more rotary assembly components are received in the rotary mount socket to form a rotary plug including the passage, and wherein the rotary mount socket is oriented such that the rotary The plane of rotation of the plug is at an angle relative to the plane passing through the ear cup to the ear contact surface. The earmuff assembly of claim 7, wherein the two ear cups are asymmetrical and include a left ear cover and a right ear cover, such that the rotary mounting member of each ear cover is socketed. Oriented such that the rotational plane of the rotary plug is at an angle relative to the plane passing through the earmuff and the ear contact surface, while allowing the identical rotary plug to be used to assemble the rotary mount for Each of the left and right ear cups. The earmuff assembly of claim 5, wherein the elastic frame comprises an elastic bone The frame spans the right end portion of the elastic frame, the central portion and the left end portion and provides elasticity to apply the clamping force. The earmuff assembly of claim 9, wherein the elastic frame is a slender curved band, and the left end portion and the right end portion are substantially flat. The earmuff assembly of claim 10, wherein the slender bending band is formed of an elastic metal. The earmuff assembly of claim 10, wherein the slender bending strip has a composite structure comprising one or more layers of elastic material in a laminated structure. The earmuff assembly of claim 11, wherein the elastic frame further comprises a non-metallic coating. The earmuff assembly of claim 13, wherein the non-metallic coating layer increases the elasticity of the elastic frame. The earmuff assembly of any of claims 9 to 14, wherein the elastic frame further comprises a non-elastic eyewear assembly mounting member configured to mount an eyecup assembly to the central portion. The earmuff assembly of claim 5, further configured to allow adjustment of the position of each of the ear cups along the respective left end portion or the right end portion. The earmuff assembly of claim 16, wherein the rotary mounting member is constructed with a passage to allow the rotary mounting member to slide along the respective left end portion or the right end portion. The earmuff assembly of claim 17, wherein the left end portion and the right end portion each further comprise a pawl portion, and the rotary mounting member is constructed for being disposed at the individual left end portion The portion engages the pawl portion on the right end portion to inhibit unintentional sliding of the rotary mounting member along the respective left end portion or the right end portion. The earmuff assembly of claim 17, wherein the rotary mounting member and the individual The surface friction between the left end portion or the right end portion prohibits unintentional sliding of the rotary mounting member along the respective left end portion or the right end portion. The earmuff assembly of claim 5, wherein the earmuffs are earmuff style ear protectors configured to provide hearing protection to the wearer. The earmuff assembly of claim 20, wherein each of the ear protectors comprises an inner soundproof portion and an outer casing, the inner soundproof portion being adapted to rest against the outer ear and the essence of the wearer. The outer ear of the wearer is covered or completely covered; and the outer casing is made of a hard material and attached to the inner soundproof portion, wherein the rotary mount is attached to the outer casing of the ear protector. The earmuff assembly of claim 21, wherein the outer casing has a removable portion adapted to be selectively removed and replaced, whereby when the removable portion is removed, An orifice is formed in the outer casing. The earmuff assembly of claim 22, wherein the sound insulation quality of the ear protector can be adjusted by adding or removing additional sound insulating material through the aperture in the outer casing. The earmuff assembly of claim 20, wherein at least one of the ear cups comprises an electronic device comprising a receiver and a speaker. The earmuff assembly of claim 24, wherein the receiver is a wireless transceiver. The earmuff assembly of claim 25, wherein the earmuffs are constructed as a pair of earphones. The earmuff assembly of claim 26, wherein the earmuffs are constructed as left and right stereo headphones. The earmuff assembly of claim 5, further comprising an eye shield assembly, wherein the eye shield assembly comprises a goggle assembly. The earmuff assembly of claim 28, wherein the goggle assembly is constructed as any one of safety glasses, a face shield, or a mask. The earmuff assembly of claim 28, wherein the eyecup assembly is constructed for use with sunglasses. The earmuff assembly of claim 28, wherein the eyecup assembly is configured to include a vision correction lens. The earmuff assembly of claim 31, wherein the eyecup assembly is configured to be capable of removing the attached vision correction lens. The earmuff assembly of claim 31, wherein the eyecup assembly comprises an integrated vision correction lens. The earmuff assembly of any one of claims 28 to 33, wherein the eyecup assembly is removably attached to the elastic frame. The earmuff assembly of claim 24, further comprising a microphone assembly. The earmuff assembly of claim 35, wherein the microphone assembly is mounted on a rod for positioning the microphone assembly next to the wearer's mouth, the rod being mounted via a second rotary A piece is attached to one of the ear cups.