US20060090234A1 - Protective mask for paintball - Google Patents
Protective mask for paintball Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060090234A1 US20060090234A1 US11/210,821 US21082105A US2006090234A1 US 20060090234 A1 US20060090234 A1 US 20060090234A1 US 21082105 A US21082105 A US 21082105A US 2006090234 A1 US2006090234 A1 US 2006090234A1
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- Prior art keywords
- lens
- mask
- face
- housing
- strap
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/08—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions
- A63B71/10—Body-protectors for players or sportsmen, i.e. body-protecting accessories affording protection of body parts against blows or collisions for the head
Definitions
- the present invention is related to a protective mask for high-impact games such as paint ball, and more particularly to a construction of a new face-engaging portion and new lens locking assembly protecting the user's eyes and face from projectiles.
- a removable lens on a facemask is preferred by consumers because one can purchase the style of face mask that appeals or fits most comfortably, and simply change the lens once it wears out, becomes damaged or must have different characteristics (e.g.: tinted for bright sunlight applications).
- This solution is economical, environmentally-friendly, and practical. Instead of having several masks, the user has one mask and several lenses depending on the desired application.
- the lens locking mechanism must be designed so that the lens cannot detach from the facemask by accident. Such accidents may be caused by a projectile striking the lens, improper lens installation by the user, or the facemask hitting an object. These events happen often in the game of paintball. Therefore, there is necessity for means to positively immobilize a lens in its housing on a facemask, such that if the lens locking procedure is not followed correctly, the facemask is rendered unusable.
- Protective masks are used in high-impact sports games where flying objects or projectiles are used to hit intended targets such as players of an opposing team. Due to the fact that flying objects are capable of causing bodily damage, most sensitive areas of players, such as eyes and face, are covered by a protective mask that is expected to be comfortable and safe.
- the present invention overcomes this disadvantage by making the facemask unusable until the user properly immobilizes the lens in its housing on the facemask.
- the strap that holds the facemask on the head has been integrated as the key element in immobilizing the lens.
- the user cannot wear the facemask without the strap attached to both sides of the mask, and the strap cannot be properly attached without the lens being correctly immobilized.
- the user has no choice but to correctly immobilize the lens if he wants to wear the mask.
- the face engaging portion of any paint ball mask serves two main purposes:
- the strap that holds the facemask on the head has been integrated as the key element of the design.
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the face mask according to the present invention.
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective back view of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 shows a perspective back view of FIG. 1 stretched to see face engaging portion.
- FIG. 4 shows a perspective (fragmental) back view of FIG. 1
- FIG. 5 shows a perspective side view of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 shows a perspective back view of FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 7 shows a perspective back view of a face-engaging portion according to the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is another perspective front view of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 9 a is a perspective inside view of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 b is an outside view of FIG. 9 a.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the strap clip element.
- FIG. 10 a is a front view of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 10 b is a side view of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 10 c is another side view of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the lock immobilizing element.
- FIG. 11 a is a side view of FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 11 b is a front view of FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 11 c is another side view of FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the lens locking element.
- FIG. 12 a is a front view of FIG. 12 .
- FIG. 12 b is a side view of FIG. 12 .
- FIG. 12 c is a side view of FIG. 12 .
- FIG. 1 shows a face mask 10 according to the present invention comprising a main rigid body frame 11 consisting of an upper part comprising brow portion 12 , opposite side temple portions 14 and 16 comprising lens receiving portions 17 and 18 , a nose bridge portion 19 and upper cheek portions 20 and 21 . Those portions form a housing for the lens 50 .
- the lower portion of the frame 11 comprises cheek portions 22 and 23 and chin portion 24 .
- the first semi-rigid part 13 of face mask 10 comprises a forehead portion 25 , two ear portions 26 and 27 depending from the extreme ends of said forehead portion 25 , and two jowl portions 28 and 29 depending from said ear portions.
- the second semi-rigid part 30 of face mask 10 comprises a nose and mouth protection portion 31 .
- a face engaging portion 32 is attached on the inner surface of the mask 10 around the forehead, temples, cheeks and nose areas to facilitate a gasket-like function to prevent paint fragments from coming in contact with the wearer's eyes.
- the configuration of face engaging portion facilitates a secure support and is provided to hold or anchor the mask onto the user's face.
- the configuration of said portion 32 also ensures fit on wearer's face.
- Preferable face engaging portion consists of a continuous wall 34 extending inwardly substantially perpendicular from the inner surface 36 of the rigid frame 11 .
- a peripheral edge 38 of said continuous wall 34 is extending inwardly vertically to form a substantially flat surface adapted to comfortably engage respective forehead, temple and nose portions of the wearer.
- Two symmetrical nose lips 42 extend outwardly inwardly from nose portion 40 of gasket 32 and provide more comfortable fitting on user's face.
- Face mask 10 is also provided with a visor 44 attached to the front upper portion of the mask to provide extra protection against flying objects and sunlight.
- visor 44 is made from rigid material similar to rigid frame 11 .
- the face engaging portion or gasket 32 is made of a resilient “rubber-like” material, such as plastic or elastomer by means of molding and has configuration of a molded gasket or polyseal.
- said portion 32 is directly molded or overmolded onto the inner surface of frame.
- Polyseal gasket 32 of the present invention is made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) manufactured by Santroprene Advanced Elastomer Systems, a division of ExxonMobil Chemical.
- TPE is a diverse family of rubber-like materials that, unlike conventional vulcanized rubber, can be processed and recycled like thermoplastic materials. TPEs provide functional performance and properties similar to conventional thermoset rubber products, but can be processed with the speed, efficiency and economy of thermoplastics. In addition to simpler processing, principal advantages of TPEs compared to thermoset rubber products include easier recycling of scrap and closer, more economical control of dimensions and product quality.
- TPEs are used in a variety of applications in the automotive, construction, medical, food and beverage, electrical, appliance and consumer electronic markets.
- TPE is hypo-allergenic and keeps its original shape once molded.
- the rigidity of TPE product is measured with a unit called “duro”, being a number between 30 and 80. The higher the duro number, the more rigid the product. For example, duro number in the face engaging portion of goggle shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,588 to UVEX is measured to be around 35. At the same time, duro number of the face engaging portion 24 of the present invention is 70 with possibility to be decreased to 55. Due to the lower duro of U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,588, it would not be operable for the purpose of the present invention due to the stress and environment (paint ball game) destined for the product.
- the UVEX product is designed as lab equipment for an environment of dust and chemical splashes. The lens of this product sold to the public has an engraved warning clearly stating “not for paint ball use”.
- the mask of the present invention is destined to be used on a paint ball field. In typical use, the mask will be exposed to temperatures between 20 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- the gasket must remain in its original shape. If duro is as low as it is in the UVEX patent, the gasket will eventually lose its intended form and the mask will become useless. Thus, the gasket must be made with a duro of a minimum of 55.
- the present invention is manufactured in two steps:
- the mask according to the present invention is made in one size which fits at least 50% of users.
- the face engaging portion or gasket does not include any size-adjusting lips on the temples such as those on U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,588 since the TPE's high duro of the present invention would firstly cause abrasion on the wearer's face, and secondly pose a safety risk due to exposed openings on the temples.
- face engaging portion or gasket of the present invention is not restricted to the face mask shown on accompanying drawings and can be used in any other face mask provided for paint ball game.
- Strap clip element 56 in substantially a “T” configuration.
- Strap clip element 56 comprises a strap eye 58 located at one extremity forming the upper part of said “T”, and guide tracks 60 and resilient retaining clip 62 form the leg part of said “T”.
- Said strap eye 58 comprises a rectangle with an elongated opening that holds a strap (not shown).
- Said guide tracks 60 comprise two elongated protrusions located length-wise along the outside face of element 56 .
- Resilient retaining clip 62 is located substantially between said guide tracks 60 .
- Said retaining clip 62 extends beyond said guide tracks 60 , said extension being in cross-section of an “L” configuration, and resembling a rounded tongue.
- FIGS. 11 to 11 c show the lock immobilizing element 72 . It comprises a front face 74 of a substantially trapezoid configuration and shackle 76 . Said shackle 76 protrudes outwardly from the rear face of lock immobilizing element 72 .
- FIGS. 12 to 12 c show the lens locking element 64 , which is substantially in an “H” configuration.
- Lens locking element 64 comprises rear portion 66 , retaining wedge 68 and tabs 70 .
- Rear portion 66 comprising the upper portion of said “H”, is an opening substantially in the same shape as the trapezoid shape of lock immobilizing element 72 's front face 74
- Retaining wedge 68 is located between the bottom legs of said “H”, and comprises a gradual incline (see FIG. 12 ).
- Tabs 70 located on the back of lens locking element 64 , comprise two lateral protrusions with retaining notches on their tips.
- strap clip element 56 , lock immobilizing element 72 and lens locking element 64 cooperate thus: front face 74 of immobilizing element 72 's edges mate with edges of rear portion 66 of locking element 64 .
- Shackle 76 coplanar to lens locking element 64 , protrudes substantially behind lens locking element 64 .
- Strap clip element 56 's guide tracks 60 abut the inside portion of shackle 76 , and resilient retaining clip 62 protrudes from shackle 76 on the side opposite to strap eye 58 .
- Strap clip element 56 , lens locking element 64 and lens immobilizing element 72 comprise a lens locking means of lens locking assembly of the present invention. They are adapted to cooperate together to facilitate simultaneous locking of the support strap to the mask and to lock lens within its housing, which is unique feature of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 represents the lens locking apparatus in its operational state.
- Lens extremity 48 is identical to the lens extremity in U.S. Pat. No. 6,381,749 (identified as element 44 ), and will not be discussed here.
- Said extremity 48 is retained in facemask 10 by bridge 17 and is immobilized by an outwardly pushing force of lens locking element 64 's retaining wedge 68 (see FIG. 6 ).
- Element 64 would slide back and forth along slots 52 (as can be seen on FIG. 8 ) if it were not for lock immobilizing element 72 (see FIG. 1 ).
- lock immobilizing element 72 is retained by strap clip element 56 , and strap 78 is attached to strap eye 58 of strap clip element 56 .
- lens extremity 48 under bridge 17 and lens 50 's resiliency snaps said lens into place.
- Lens locking element 64 slides forward toward lens extremity 48 so that retaining wedge 68 abuts the inside portion of lens extremity 48 , thus making it impossible to apply any inward pressure onto said extremity 48 .
- Element 64 's tabs 70 are held in place by slots 52 .
- lock immobilizing element 72 is inserted in such a way that its shackle 76 fits through slot 51 of mask (see FIG. 8 ) and its front face 74 mates with the rear portion 66 of locking element 64 (see FIG. 9 b ). As seen on FIG. 6 , shackle 76 protrudes inwardly through slot 51 . Strap clip element 56 is inserted through shackle 76 in such a way that guide tracks 60 abut the inner walls of shackle 76 (see FIG. 9 a ), and the resilient retaining clip 62 snaps into place thus immobilizing guide tracks 60 and retaining clip 62 inside shackle 76 . Strap 78 is attached to strap eye 58 , and the entire assembly is ready for use.
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- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present application is based on
provisional applications 60/622940 filed Oct. 29, 2004 and 60/663256 filed Mar. 21, 2005. - The present invention is related to a protective mask for high-impact games such as paint ball, and more particularly to a construction of a new face-engaging portion and new lens locking assembly protecting the user's eyes and face from projectiles.
- A removable lens on a facemask is preferred by consumers because one can purchase the style of face mask that appeals or fits most comfortably, and simply change the lens once it wears out, becomes damaged or must have different characteristics (e.g.: tinted for bright sunlight applications). This solution is economical, environmentally-friendly, and practical. Instead of having several masks, the user has one mask and several lenses depending on the desired application.
- The lens locking mechanism must be designed so that the lens cannot detach from the facemask by accident. Such accidents may be caused by a projectile striking the lens, improper lens installation by the user, or the facemask hitting an object. These events happen often in the game of paintball. Therefore, there is necessity for means to positively immobilize a lens in its housing on a facemask, such that if the lens locking procedure is not followed correctly, the facemask is rendered unusable.
- Protective masks are used in high-impact sports games where flying objects or projectiles are used to hit intended targets such as players of an opposing team. Due to the fact that flying objects are capable of causing bodily damage, most sensitive areas of players, such as eyes and face, are covered by a protective mask that is expected to be comfortable and safe.
- There is known U.S. Pat. No. 6,381,749 for “Protective Mask with Anchor Clamp for Physical Games” to Cyr that embodies a lens, a lens receiving portion, engagement portions that mount the lens to the body, and a pair of anchor clamps to further secure the engagement of the lens to the mask body. This configuration achieved the desired result as described above, but only if the user actually made the effort to engage the anchor clamps. This invention's defect was that the facemask was useable without engagement of the anchor clamps; it is impossible to ensure that every user will engage the anchor clamps before putting on the mask, which constitutes a major disadvantage.
- The present invention overcomes this disadvantage by making the facemask unusable until the user properly immobilizes the lens in its housing on the facemask. The strap that holds the facemask on the head has been integrated as the key element in immobilizing the lens. In essence, the user cannot wear the facemask without the strap attached to both sides of the mask, and the strap cannot be properly attached without the lens being correctly immobilized. The user has no choice but to correctly immobilize the lens if he wants to wear the mask.
- There is known U.S. Pat. No. 6,560,788 to Beltrani for “Swimming or Diving Goggles” provided with a frame having a surrounding made of flexible material and capable of being applied hermetically to the user's face.
- There is also known U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,588 to Canavan for “Snap together Protective Goggle” comprising a rigid frame provided with a resilient face engaging portion having convex bulges in the temple-engaging areas.
- There is also known U.S. Pat. No. 6,381,749 to Cyr for “Protective mask” designed to be used for paint ball provided with a face engaging portion made of foam.
- The face engaging portion of any paint ball mask serves two main purposes:
-
- used as a gasket to prevent paint fragments from coming in contact with user's eyes;
- used as a support to hold or anchor the mask on the face;
- ensures a proper fit on user's face.
- All known masks designed for paint ball, including U.S. Pat. No. 6,381,749, use open-cell foams that are die-cut and glued on the inside surface of the frame. However, all these foam designs have the following disadvantages:
- they do not adhere securely to the frame;
- they are not 100 % hypoallergenic;
- they are not easy to clean for hygiene needs;
- they require labor-intensive gluing process.
- It is an object of the present invention to overcome the above described problems. It is still another object of the present invention to eliminate the problem of poor adhesion and to improve the durability of the product. It is yet another object of the present invention to facilitate easier cleaning after use.
- It is yet another object of the present invention to make the facemask unusable until the user properly immobilizes the lens in its housing on the facemask. The strap that holds the facemask on the head has been integrated as the key element of the design.
- Referring now to drawings,
-
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the face mask according to the present invention. -
FIG. 2 shows a perspective back view ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 shows a perspective back view ofFIG. 1 stretched to see face engaging portion. -
FIG. 4 shows a perspective (fragmental) back view ofFIG. 1 -
FIG. 5 shows a perspective side view ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 shows a perspective back view ofFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 7 shows a perspective back view of a face-engaging portion according to the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is another perspective front view ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 9 a is a perspective inside view of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 b is an outside view ofFIG. 9 a. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the strap clip element. -
FIG. 10 a is a front view ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 10 b is a side view ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 10 c is another side view ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the lock immobilizing element. -
FIG. 11 a is a side view ofFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 11 b is a front view ofFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 11 c is another side view ofFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the lens locking element. -
FIG. 12 a is a front view ofFIG. 12 . -
FIG. 12 b is a side view ofFIG. 12 . -
FIG. 12 c is a side view ofFIG. 12 . - Referring to drawings,
FIG. 1 shows aface mask 10 according to the present invention comprising a mainrigid body frame 11 consisting of an upper part comprisingbrow portion 12, oppositeside temple portions 14 and 16 comprisinglens receiving portions 17 and 18, anose bridge portion 19 andupper cheek portions lens 50. The lower portion of theframe 11 comprisescheek portions chin portion 24. - The first
semi-rigid part 13 offace mask 10 according to the present invention comprises aforehead portion 25, twoear portions 26 and 27 depending from the extreme ends of saidforehead portion 25, and twojowl portions - The second
semi-rigid part 30 offace mask 10 comprises a nose andmouth protection portion 31. - A
face engaging portion 32 is attached on the inner surface of themask 10 around the forehead, temples, cheeks and nose areas to facilitate a gasket-like function to prevent paint fragments from coming in contact with the wearer's eyes. The configuration of face engaging portion facilitates a secure support and is provided to hold or anchor the mask onto the user's face. The configuration of saidportion 32 also ensures fit on wearer's face. - Preferable face engaging portion consists of a
continuous wall 34 extending inwardly substantially perpendicular from the inner surface 36 of therigid frame 11. Aperipheral edge 38 of saidcontinuous wall 34 is extending inwardly vertically to form a substantially flat surface adapted to comfortably engage respective forehead, temple and nose portions of the wearer. Twosymmetrical nose lips 42 extend outwardly inwardly fromnose portion 40 ofgasket 32 and provide more comfortable fitting on user's face. -
Face mask 10 is also provided with avisor 44 attached to the front upper portion of the mask to provide extra protection against flying objects and sunlight. Preferably,visor 44 is made from rigid material similar torigid frame 11. - Preferably, the face engaging portion or
gasket 32 is made of a resilient “rubber-like” material, such as plastic or elastomer by means of molding and has configuration of a molded gasket or polyseal. In one embodiment, saidportion 32 is directly molded or overmolded onto the inner surface of frame.Polyseal gasket 32 of the present invention is made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) manufactured by Santroprene Advanced Elastomer Systems, a division of ExxonMobil Chemical. - TPE is a diverse family of rubber-like materials that, unlike conventional vulcanized rubber, can be processed and recycled like thermoplastic materials. TPEs provide functional performance and properties similar to conventional thermoset rubber products, but can be processed with the speed, efficiency and economy of thermoplastics. In addition to simpler processing, principal advantages of TPEs compared to thermoset rubber products include easier recycling of scrap and closer, more economical control of dimensions and product quality.
- TPEs are used in a variety of applications in the automotive, construction, medical, food and beverage, electrical, appliance and consumer electronic markets. TPE is hypo-allergenic and keeps its original shape once molded.
- The rigidity of TPE product is measured with a unit called “duro”, being a number between 30 and 80. The higher the duro number, the more rigid the product. For example, duro number in the face engaging portion of goggle shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,588 to UVEX is measured to be around 35. At the same time, duro number of the
face engaging portion 24 of the present invention is 70 with possibility to be decreased to 55. Due to the lower duro of U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,588, it would not be operable for the purpose of the present invention due to the stress and environment (paint ball game) destined for the product. The UVEX product is designed as lab equipment for an environment of dust and chemical splashes. The lens of this product sold to the public has an engraved warning clearly stating “not for paint ball use”. - The reason the present invention's duro cannot be below 55 is as follows: the mask of the present invention is destined to be used on a paint ball field. In typical use, the mask will be exposed to temperatures between 20 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Typically, the user will repeatedly bump the mask on hard surfaces, paint balls will hit the mask at speeds of approximately 260 feet per second, and the mask will be cleaned after every day of use. Throughout its life of heat waves, being soaked with perspiration, abrupt impacts and mistreatment, the gasket must remain in its original shape. If duro is as low as it is in the UVEX patent, the gasket will eventually lose its intended form and the mask will become useless. Thus, the gasket must be made with a duro of a minimum of 55.
- The present invention is manufactured in two steps:
-
- Firstly, main
rigid body frame 11 is molded from hard plastic; - Secondly, both semi-rigid portions and face engaging portion are overmolded onto
rigid body frame 11. This is the least expensive manufacturing method, although present invention is not restricted to such method and it is possible to glue or mechanically attach theface engaging portion 24 to therigid frame 11 by means of rivets, screws or the like.
- Firstly, main
- The mask according to the present invention is made in one size which fits at least 50% of users. The face engaging portion or gasket does not include any size-adjusting lips on the temples such as those on U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,588 since the TPE's high duro of the present invention would firstly cause abrasion on the wearer's face, and secondly pose a safety risk due to exposed openings on the temples.
- The shape of such gasket-like polyseal provides the comfort and stability of foam without any known disadvantages of said foam.
- It must be emphasized that the face engaging portion or gasket of the present invention is not restricted to the face mask shown on accompanying drawings and can be used in any other face mask provided for paint ball game.
- Referring to FIGS. 10 to 10 c, there is shown
strap clip element 56 in substantially a “T” configuration.Strap clip element 56 comprises astrap eye 58 located at one extremity forming the upper part of said “T”, and guidetracks 60 andresilient retaining clip 62 form the leg part of said “T”. Saidstrap eye 58 comprises a rectangle with an elongated opening that holds a strap (not shown). Said guide tracks 60 comprise two elongated protrusions located length-wise along the outside face ofelement 56.Resilient retaining clip 62 is located substantially between said guide tracks 60. Said retainingclip 62 extends beyond said guide tracks 60, said extension being in cross-section of an “L” configuration, and resembling a rounded tongue. - FIGS. 11 to 11 c show the
lock immobilizing element 72. It comprises afront face 74 of a substantially trapezoid configuration andshackle 76. Saidshackle 76 protrudes outwardly from the rear face oflock immobilizing element 72. - FIGS. 12 to 12 c show the
lens locking element 64, which is substantially in an “H” configuration.Lens locking element 64 comprisesrear portion 66, retainingwedge 68 andtabs 70.Rear portion 66, comprising the upper portion of said “H”, is an opening substantially in the same shape as the trapezoid shape oflock immobilizing element 72'sfront face 74Retaining wedge 68 is located between the bottom legs of said “H”, and comprises a gradual incline (seeFIG. 12 ).Tabs 70, located on the back oflens locking element 64, comprise two lateral protrusions with retaining notches on their tips. - Referring to
FIGS. 9 a and 9 b,strap clip element 56, lock immobilizingelement 72 andlens locking element 64 cooperate thus:front face 74 of immobilizingelement 72's edges mate with edges ofrear portion 66 of lockingelement 64.Shackle 76, coplanar tolens locking element 64, protrudes substantially behindlens locking element 64.Strap clip element 56's guide tracks 60 abut the inside portion ofshackle 76, andresilient retaining clip 62 protrudes fromshackle 76 on the side opposite tostrap eye 58.Strap clip element 56,lens locking element 64 andlens immobilizing element 72 comprise a lens locking means of lens locking assembly of the present invention. They are adapted to cooperate together to facilitate simultaneous locking of the support strap to the mask and to lock lens within its housing, which is unique feature of the present invention. - Referring now to the drawings,
FIG. 1 represents the lens locking apparatus in its operational state.Lens extremity 48 is identical to the lens extremity in U.S. Pat. No. 6,381,749 (identified as element 44), and will not be discussed here. Saidextremity 48 is retained infacemask 10 bybridge 17 and is immobilized by an outwardly pushing force oflens locking element 64's retaining wedge 68 (seeFIG. 6 ).Element 64 would slide back and forth along slots 52 (as can be seen onFIG. 8 ) if it were not for lock immobilizing element 72 (seeFIG. 1 ). As can be seen onFIG. 6 , lock immobilizingelement 72 is retained bystrap clip element 56, andstrap 78 is attached tostrap eye 58 ofstrap clip element 56. - Referring to
FIGS. 6 and 8 , the user firstthreads lens extremity 48 underbridge 17 andlens 50's resiliency snaps said lens into place. User then holdslens locking element 64 so that its retainingwedge 68 faceslens extremity 48, and insertselement 64'stabs 70 into the rear portion ofslots 52 a.Lens locking element 64 slides forward towardlens extremity 48 so that retainingwedge 68 abuts the inside portion oflens extremity 48, thus making it impossible to apply any inward pressure onto saidextremity 48.Element 64'stabs 70 are held in place byslots 52. - To prevent
lens locking element 64 from sliding rearwardly, lock immobilizingelement 72 is inserted in such a way that itsshackle 76 fits throughslot 51 of mask (seeFIG. 8 ) and itsfront face 74 mates with therear portion 66 of locking element 64 (seeFIG. 9 b). As seen onFIG. 6 , shackle 76 protrudes inwardly throughslot 51.Strap clip element 56 is inserted throughshackle 76 in such a way that guide tracks 60 abut the inner walls of shackle 76 (seeFIG. 9 a), and theresilient retaining clip 62 snaps into place thus immobilizing guide tracks 60 and retainingclip 62 insideshackle 76.Strap 78 is attached tostrap eye 58, and the entire assembly is ready for use. - To remove the lens, the procedure is reversed: user puts pressure on retaining
clip 62 towards inner portion oftemple 14 as he pulls back onstrap clip element 56. This will disengage retainingclip 62 and guidetracks 60 frominside shackle 76, andstrap clip element 56 is removed. Lock immobilizingelement 72 is removed fromslot 51, thus freeing lockingelement 64 to slide backwardly alongslots 52 to 52 a. User can then put inward pressure onlens extremity 48, thus causing it to slide out from underbridge 17. - Thus, it can be seen that the objects of the present invention have been satisfied by the structure presented hereinabove. While in accordance with the Patent Statutes, only the best mode and preferred embodiments of the present invention have been presented and described in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto or thereby. Accordingly, for an appreciation of the true scope and breadth of the invention, references should be made to the following claims.
Claims (28)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/210,821 US20060090234A1 (en) | 2004-10-29 | 2005-08-25 | Protective mask for paintball |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US62294004P | 2004-10-29 | 2004-10-29 | |
US66325605P | 2005-03-21 | 2005-03-21 | |
US11/210,821 US20060090234A1 (en) | 2004-10-29 | 2005-08-25 | Protective mask for paintball |
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US20060090234A1 true US20060090234A1 (en) | 2006-05-04 |
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US11/210,821 Abandoned US20060090234A1 (en) | 2004-10-29 | 2005-08-25 | Protective mask for paintball |
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Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050204446A1 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2005-09-22 | Wright Jerry D | Face protector and method of use |
US20070050896A1 (en) * | 2005-05-19 | 2007-03-08 | National Paintball Supply, Inc. | Face mask and goggle system |
US20070186324A1 (en) * | 2006-02-15 | 2007-08-16 | Neville Sheldon | Protective mask |
US20070192946A1 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2007-08-23 | Wright Jerry D | Face protector and method of use |
US20080086795A1 (en) * | 2006-10-12 | 2008-04-17 | Procaps L.P. | Protective face mask |
EP1958676A1 (en) * | 2007-02-12 | 2008-08-20 | SLY, LLC Us | Protective mask having removable lens and detachable head strap |
US20090113607A1 (en) * | 2007-11-02 | 2009-05-07 | Yao-Gwo Gan | Connection of goggle and mask |
US20150272259A1 (en) * | 2012-10-26 | 2015-10-01 | Pfanner Schutzbekleidung Gmbh | Protective screen and visor produced therewith for a safety helmet, particularly a forestry worker's helmet |
USD801589S1 (en) | 2006-02-10 | 2017-10-31 | Gi Sportz Direct Llc | Protective mask |
USD826478S1 (en) * | 2016-12-15 | 2018-08-21 | Bor Jye Enterprise Co., Ltd | Mask |
USD826477S1 (en) * | 2016-07-15 | 2018-08-21 | Chun-Nan Chen | Mask |
USD840602S1 (en) * | 2017-06-30 | 2019-02-12 | Uvex Arbeitsschutz Gmbh | Protective mask |
US20220304861A1 (en) * | 2021-03-23 | 2022-09-29 | Aswan International Corp. | Assembled full-face mask |
Citations (4)
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US4250577A (en) * | 1979-07-20 | 1981-02-17 | Smith Robert P | Face mask for use with goggles |
US5617588A (en) * | 1995-03-16 | 1997-04-08 | Uvex Safety, Inc. | Snap together protective goggle construction with toric lens |
US6381749B1 (en) * | 2000-02-09 | 2002-05-07 | Leader Industries Inc. | Protective mask with anchor clamp for physical games |
US6560788B1 (en) * | 1998-12-29 | 2003-05-13 | Technisub Spa | Swimming or diving goggles |
-
2005
- 2005-08-25 US US11/210,821 patent/US20060090234A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2005-08-29 CA CA002518683A patent/CA2518683A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4250577A (en) * | 1979-07-20 | 1981-02-17 | Smith Robert P | Face mask for use with goggles |
US5617588A (en) * | 1995-03-16 | 1997-04-08 | Uvex Safety, Inc. | Snap together protective goggle construction with toric lens |
US6560788B1 (en) * | 1998-12-29 | 2003-05-13 | Technisub Spa | Swimming or diving goggles |
US6381749B1 (en) * | 2000-02-09 | 2002-05-07 | Leader Industries Inc. | Protective mask with anchor clamp for physical games |
Cited By (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070192946A1 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2007-08-23 | Wright Jerry D | Face protector and method of use |
US7168095B2 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2007-01-30 | Wright Jerry D | Face protector and method of use |
US20050204446A1 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2005-09-22 | Wright Jerry D | Face protector and method of use |
US8011026B2 (en) | 2005-05-19 | 2011-09-06 | Kee Action Sports I Llc | Face mask and goggle system |
US20070050896A1 (en) * | 2005-05-19 | 2007-03-08 | National Paintball Supply, Inc. | Face mask and goggle system |
US8549672B2 (en) | 2005-05-19 | 2013-10-08 | Kee Action Sports I Llc | Face mask and goggle system |
USD801589S1 (en) | 2006-02-10 | 2017-10-31 | Gi Sportz Direct Llc | Protective mask |
USD900405S1 (en) | 2006-02-10 | 2020-10-27 | Gi Sportz Direct Llc | Protective mask |
US20070186324A1 (en) * | 2006-02-15 | 2007-08-16 | Neville Sheldon | Protective mask |
US20080086795A1 (en) * | 2006-10-12 | 2008-04-17 | Procaps L.P. | Protective face mask |
US8104095B2 (en) * | 2006-10-12 | 2012-01-31 | GI Sportz Inc. | Protective face mask |
EP1958676A1 (en) * | 2007-02-12 | 2008-08-20 | SLY, LLC Us | Protective mask having removable lens and detachable head strap |
US20090113607A1 (en) * | 2007-11-02 | 2009-05-07 | Yao-Gwo Gan | Connection of goggle and mask |
US20150272259A1 (en) * | 2012-10-26 | 2015-10-01 | Pfanner Schutzbekleidung Gmbh | Protective screen and visor produced therewith for a safety helmet, particularly a forestry worker's helmet |
USD826477S1 (en) * | 2016-07-15 | 2018-08-21 | Chun-Nan Chen | Mask |
USD826478S1 (en) * | 2016-12-15 | 2018-08-21 | Bor Jye Enterprise Co., Ltd | Mask |
USD840602S1 (en) * | 2017-06-30 | 2019-02-12 | Uvex Arbeitsschutz Gmbh | Protective mask |
US20220304861A1 (en) * | 2021-03-23 | 2022-09-29 | Aswan International Corp. | Assembled full-face mask |
US11471329B1 (en) * | 2021-03-23 | 2022-10-18 | Aswan International Corp. | Assembled full-face mask |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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CA2518683A1 (en) | 2006-04-29 |
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