WO2012096667A1

WO2012096667A1 - Protective gear

Info

Publication number: WO2012096667A1
Application number: PCT/US2011/021207
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rong Chen Chang
Original assignee: Wrong Gear, Inc.
Priority date: 2011-01-13
Filing date: 2011-01-13
Publication date: 2012-07-19

Abstract

A protective head gear for a user having an outer panel, an inner panel, a liner panel, a retention pleat on the inner panel, a respirator, and an indexed fastener. The outer panel is disposed relative to the inner panel to provide efficacious spatial separation. The fastener is formed to adjustably and releasably secure at least a portion of the gear to the user. An indexing element is attached to the fastener, and is formed of material tactilely different from the fastener, the outer panel, or the inner panel, to permit the user to unambiguously locate the point of fastening. The outer panel, inner panel, liner panel, and respirator, can be composed of fabrics having one or more layer, and one layer can have a repellent characteristic different from another. The head gear can also include elastic members for expansion and contraction.

Description

TITLE

PROTECTIVE GEAR

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001 ] The present invention is generally related to an article of clothing or garment, and, more particularly, to a garment which may be used to cover and protect a user's head, neck, and adjacent regions.

BACKGROUND ART

[002] Scarves, bandannas, keffiyehs, and shemaghs (collectively, head gear) have long been used to protect the head and face of the wearer from heat, cold, wind, precipitation, mud, sand, and dust. Often head gear is provided as a large square, which is folded, wrapped, or twisted around the user to provide protection, visibility, and ease of use. One popular style of wearing such head gear includes folding the large square into a triangle, which facilitates wrapping the head gear around the user's face and head. In general, the head gear can be secured to the user's head by tying and knotting together two triangle ends, employing varying degrees of snugness in hopes of a correct, secure, and lasting tie-off.

[003] In addition, existing head gear can be made of natural, primarily hydrophilic fibers, such as cotton, which while often comfortable, can become saturated with water, including the breath of the user. Natural fabrics also can stretch, lose shape, and be susceptible to slipping off of the user's face unless frequently re- knotted. Other often used fibers also may tend to stretch or become misshapen, so that the head gear secured around the user's face may become inconveniently misaligned or may slip off the user's nose and face. Therefore, typical head gear tend to be ill-suited for active individuals, such as athletes, dancers, off-road vehicle riders, extreme sports enthusiasts, soldiers, or open-range cattle management personnel. SUMMARY

[004] Non-exclusive, non-limiting embodiments of the invention illustrated herein provide a protective head gear for a user, which includes an outer panel having an outer obverse side, an outer reverse side, an outer base and an outer apex generally perpendicular to the base. The protective head gear also has an inner panel including an inner obverse side, an inner reverse side, an inner base and, an inner apex generally perpendicular to the inner base. In certain embodiments a portion of the outer base of the outer panel is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base of the inner panel. In embodiments, an efficacious spatial gap is formed when the portion of the outer base of the outer panel is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base of the inner panel. Typically, a portion of the outer reverse side is proximate to a portion of the inner obverse side, with a spatial separation being disposed between the outer reverse side and the inner obverse side. A retention pleat is formed, to retain a portion of the user, in the inner panel at least in proximity with the inner base midpoint, and positioned approximately distally to, and in parallel with the inner apex. In general, a fastener is attached to at least one end of the outer panel, the inner panel, or both. The fastener is formed to adjustably and releasably secure at least a portion of the inner panel to the user. [005] In some embodiments, the protective head gear further includes a respirator panel attached to an upper portion of the reverse side of the inner panel, approximately rearward of the retention pleat and approximately midpoint along the inner panel. Alternatively, some embodiments of the protective head gear further include an indexing device affixed to an end of the obverse side of the outer panel. The indexing device is indexingly and removably affixed to a portion of the fastener. In selected protective head gear embodiments with the respirator, an indexing device affixed to an end of the obverse side of the outer panel, with the indexing device being indexingly and removably affixed to a portion of the fastener. The respirator panel of the protective head gear further can include a perforated cloth having an at least partly hydrophobic absorption characteristic. Also, in selected embodiments, the obverse side of the outer panel of the protective head gear further includes an at least partly hydrophobic absorption characteristic.

[006] In some embodiments, the protective head gear further includes openings for the passage of earphone wires or similar devices. For instance, slits in the panels, or loops attached to the panels, may be provided in proximity to a user's ears. Earphone wires may pass from an earpiece located on or in the user's ears, through the openings in the head gear and then to a portable electronic device such as an mp3 player strapped to the user. As the user turns his or her head, the spatial relationship of the openings of the head gear to the user's ears stays relatively constant. As such, the portions of the wires in proximity to the ears will tend to move with the head gear, rather than dangling from the user's ears and therefore may be out of the way from unwanted interference. These embodiments may help prevent the earphone wires from getting tangled and pulling at, or falling out of, the user's ears during the course of activities such as snowboarding and skiing.

[007] In some embodiments, the protective head gear further includes elastic members, such as elastic straps, coupled to the panels. For example, elastic straps may be sewn into the bases of the inner and outer panels, so that in a resting state portions of the inner and outer panels may appear to be bunched up. In these embodiments, the elastic may provide flexibility to the head gear such that the head gear may stretch and contract to be suitable for numerous applications and users. For example, the user may slip the head gear over their head and onto their face, as well as lower the head gear down to their neck, all without the need to make multiple adjustments to the fastener. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the elastic may enable one head gear to be used by different people with different sized heads without the need to adjust the fastener. The elastic may also help to securely retain the protective head gear on the user's head, for example, in connection with changes in material dimensions that may occur in connection with weather conditions or over time as the head gear is used and washed.

[008] In some embodiments, the head gear may include a liner panel having a liner obverse side, liner reverse side, a liner base and a liner apex generally perpendicular to the liner base. The liner panel may be formed from an insulating material to keep the user warm in cold weather and may be sewn or otherwise coupled to the inner panel and/or outer panel. The liner panel may also be formed with an opening to accept a respirator panel. As the liner panel may be made from a relatively dense and insulating material such as fleece, an opening may be formed in the liner panel for the placement of the respirator panel. In this configuration, one gains the benefit of a warm insulating liner for cold conditions while also maintaining the ability to breathe freely through the respirator portion of the head gear. As the liner panel may, in some embodiments, be made from a denser material than the materials of either the inner or outer panels, the liner panel may tend to restrict the flexibility of the head gear and inhibit the ability of the head gear to conform to a user's head. To improve flexibility and comfort to the user, the liner panel may have a base width less than the corresponding base widths of the inner and/or outer panels such that the liner panel may be narrower than either the outer panel or inner panel. With less liner material used along the base of the head gear, the head gear may retain flexibility and thus retain the ability to conformingly wrap around a user's head.

[009] Other non-exclusive, non-limiting embodiments of the invention illustrated in the form of a protective head gear for a user, include an outer panel having an outer obverse side, an outer reverse side, a outer base, and an outer apex generally perpendicular to the base. The gear also can include an inner panel having an inner obverse side, an inner reverse side, an inner base and an inner apex generally perpendicular to the inner base. Typically, a portion of the outer base of the outer panel is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base of the inner panel, and an efficacious spatial gap is formed when the portion of the outer base of the outer panel is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base of the inner panel. Moreover, a portion of the outer reverse side is proximate to a portion of the inner obverse side, and a spatial separation is disposed between the outer reverse side and the inner obverse side.

[001 0] Other non-exclusive, non-limiting embodiments of the invention illustrated in the form of a protective head gear for a user, include an outer panel having an outer obverse side, an outer reverse side, a outer base, and an outer apex generally perpendicular to the base. The gear also can include an inner panel having an inner obverse side, an inner reverse side, an inner base and an inner apex generally perpendicular to the inner base. Typically, a portion of the outer base of the outer panel is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base of the inner panel, and an efficacious spatial gap is formed when the portion of the outer base of the outer panel is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base of the inner panel. Moreover, a portion of the outer reverse side is proximate to a portion of the inner obverse side, and a spatial separation is disposed between the outer reverse side and the inner obverse side. The gear can also include a liner panel have a liner obverse side, a liner reverse side, a liner base and a liner apex generally perpendicular to the liner base. The liner panel may be made out of an insulating material to retain body heat in cold weather conditions. The width of the liner panel along the base may be narrower than the corresponding widths of the outer and/or inner panels, such that the head gear remains flexible when wrapped around a user's head. The liner panel may also be formed with an opening therein that may generally conform to the dimensions of a respirator panel.

[001 1 ] In these embodiments, a retention pleat, to retain a portion of the user within the gear, is formed in the inner panel at least in proximity with the inner base midpoint and positioned approximately distally to and in parallel with the inner apex of the inner panel. In addition, a fastener is attached to at least one end of one or both of the outer panel and the inner panel; and the fastener is formed to adjustably and releasably secure at least a portion of the inner panel to the user.

[001 2] These example embodiments have a respirator panel attached to an upper portion of the reverse side of the inner panel and/or the liner panel, approximately rearward of the retention pleat and approximately midpoint along the inner panel and/or the liner panel. An indexing device is affixed to an end of the obverse side of the outer panel, and the indexing device is indexingly and removably affixed to a portion of the fastener.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[001 3] The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not by limitation in the accompanying figures, in which like references indicate similar elements, and in which:

[001 4] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a front view of an embodiment of protective gear 1 00 in accordance with the teaching of the invention herein;

[001 5] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a rear view of an embodiment of protective gear 1 00 in accordance with the teaching of the invention herein;

[001 6] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a front view of an embodiment of protective gear 1 00 in accordance with the teaching of the invention herein, as may be disposed on a user; [001 7] FIG. 4A is an illustration of a right side view of an embodiment of protective gear 1 00 in accordance with the teaching of the invention herein, as may be disposed on a user; and

[001 8] FIG. 4B is an illustration of a left side view of an embodiment of protective gear 1 00 in accordance with the teaching of the invention herein, as may be disposed on a user;

[001 9] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a front view of an embodiment of protective gear 200 in accordance with the teaching of the invention herein;

[0020] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a rear view of an embodiment of protective gear 200 in accordance with the teaching of the invention herein; and

[0021 ] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a left side view of an embodiment of protective gear 200 in accordance with the teaching of the invention herein, as may be disposed on a user.

[0022] Skilled artisans appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates a front plan view of an embodiment of gear 1 00. FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of an embodiment of gear 1 00, as maybe worn by user 1 01 . Regarding FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, protective gear 1 00, which can be in accordance with present embodiments, may include, without limitation, outer panel 1 05, inner panel 1 1 0, and respirator panel 1 25 (shown in FIG. 2). In general, one or more of outer panel 1 05 , inner panel 1 1 0, and respirator panel 1 25 may be constituted of natural, man-made or manufactured material, or a composite thereof, may be plain or treated material, may be woven or non-woven cloth, and may be constituted of a hydrophobic material, a hydrophilic material, or a hygroscopic material or may be a functional combination of two or more layers of hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or hygroscopic materials. One or both of panels 1 05, 1 1 0 may be a sized portion of cloth, which may be unilayer cloth or multilayer cloth, and may be generally soft and flexible. Of course, additional panels other than 1 05, 1 1 0 may be used to form gear 1 00. Although panels 1 05, 1 1 0 may be of a similar shape and size, it is contemplated that panels 1 05, 1 00, as well as additional panels, if any, may be of different size and shape. Panels 1 05, 1 1 0 may be joined, at least in part, by sewing, by use of a fusible bonding agent, or by both.

[0024] Current head gear commonly in use may formed from a single, folded panel of fabric, in which one fold may hang closely to an adjacent fold of fabric, and which may not provide an efficacious spatial gap between adjacent layers. Gear 1 00 may be fabricated of two or more panels of fabric, which may be selectively attached to form at least one efficacious spatial gap 1 1 1 between two of the two or more panels of fabric. In some embodiments, efficacious spatial gap 1 1 1 can be accomplished by providing a front panel 1 05, which may be partially attached to rear panel 1 1 0, and may hang loosely from rear panel 1 1 0. An efficacious air gap can be formed by providing standoffs to at least one panel, so that their effect may facilitate air gap efficacy. In certain embodiments, an efficacious air gap can be provided by a panel that drapes loosely relative to a rearward panel and that may include standoffs 1 90, for example, along at least a portion of the periphery of front panel 105.

[0025] Panel 1 10 also may exhibit some hydrophilic characteristics, further contributing to the comfort of user 101 by moderating ambient nuisances as it reduces the moisture trapped within panel 1 10 against the face of user 1 01 . Panel 105 may be provided with hydrophobic characteristics, for example, to afford ambient moisture protection to user 101 , although some embodiments may not employ such a characteristic.

[0026] A spatial gap between inner panel 1 10 and outer panel 1 05 may provide insulative or filtering functions, or both, between the exterior of outer panel 105 and the interior of inner panel 1 10. As a result, protective gear may be useful for use in outdoor activities, where inhalation of dust, dirt, snow, ice, rain, or hot or cold air, can be mitigated. Protective gear 1 00 may be worn by user 101 , alone, or in combination with one or more other garments, such as jacket 1 65, goggles 1 70, and helmet 1 80.

[0027] One or both of outer panel 105 and inner panel 1 10 can be shaped having a generally triangular form, including panel base 1 07, 1 1 2, respectively, with two panel sides extending from the panel base to a panel apex. Typically, a reverse surface of outer panel 1 05 can be proximate to the obverse surface of inner panel 1 10. Gear 1 00 can be configured such that inner panel 1 10 may be placed adjacent to a portion of the head of user 1 01 , which may include the face. For example, inner panel 1 1 0 may be sized and shaped to be circumferentially disposed on the head of user 101 . In general, inner panel 1 10 may be sized between about one foot to about three feet along inner base 1 1 2, with an example size being about two feet (about 60 cm.), as measured along inner base 1 1 2. In addition, inner panel 1 10 may be sized between about one-half foot to about three feet, as measured from inner base 1 1 2 to inner apex 1 1 5, with an example size being about one foot (about 30 cm).

[0028] Dimensions of outer panel 105 may be similar to dimensions of inner panel 1 10, or may be different. In some embodiments, outer panel 1 10 can have dimensions that may be up to 50% different from those of inner panel 1 10, with the difference being larger or smaller. Outer panel 105 can be detachably, or permanently, attached to inner panel 1 10, at least in part. Also, outer base 107 of outer panel 105 may be attached in part, or in whole, with inner base 1 12 of inner panel 1 10. In certain embodiments, at least one portion of outer base 107 can be attached to at least one portion of inner base 1 1 2. For example, predetermined portions of ends of outer base 1 07 may be affixed near predetermined sections of ends of inner base 1 1 2, with at least a portion of outer base 1 07 being unattached to inner base 1 1 2, producing a layered, draped appearance to gear 100, as illustrated. In general, outer panel 105 of selected embodiments of gear 100 can be disposed loosely and at least partially apart from inner panel 1 10. Inner panel 1 10 may be formed to allow at least a portion of inner base 1 1 2 to become proximate to, or covered by, goggles 1 70; with corresponding outer panel 105 being formed to drape beneath goggles 1 70, as illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0029] Typically, retention pleat 1 50 can be disposed near the approximate midpoint of inner base 1 1 2, and can be sized and shaped to at least partly and releasably retain a portion of user 101 , for example, user nose 102. Retention pleat 1 50 can be a single pleat, a double pleat, or any other suitable gather; a pucker; an overlap; a pocket; a bulge; a bend; a crease; a crimp; a flexure; a fold; a plication; a tuck; or a functionally similar material fold. Retention pleat 1 50 may be formed on inner panel 1 1 0 for example, by stitching, by pre-stressing, by thermoforming, or by applying a fusible bonding agent or flexible bonding agent, suitable for producing a soft, generally non-obtrusive retention pleat 1 50. A fusible bonding agent may include, without limitation, a fusible web, interlining, fabric, yarn, thread, liquid, foam, resin, film, or powder, which may include one or more of polyethylene, polyethylene copolymers, polypropylene, polyester, or polyamide. In some embodiments, retention pleat 1 50 may be formed or augmented by an elastic or deformable portion, for example, using shaped foam, elastic fabric, or a formed plastic or metallic stay.

[0030] In general, though, a soft, pliant retention pleat 1 50 in the form of a simple pleat can suffice, and may minimize injury, which may occur from a vigorous or even forceful thrust of retention pleat 1 50 against a proximate portion of the body of user 1 01 . As shown in FIG. 3, retention pleat 1 50 having soft, pliant characteristics may assist with gear 1 00 being held in place proximate to goggles 1 70 and on the face of user 1 01 , without being displaced during active use by a movement of goggles 1 70. Panels lacking retention pleat 1 50 tend to create a gap on one or both sides of an extended portion of a user 1 01 , for example, on one or both sides of user's nose. Such panels tend to slip, or be pulled from, an intended position on the user. Retention pleat 1 50 may be applied, for example, to inner panel 1 1 0, as described by the teachings herein, so that at least panel 1 1 0 may generally be retained in position on the user, despite tugging, pulling, or torsioning of gear 1 00, inner panel 1 1 0, or both. [0031 ] In general, outer panel 105 may include first outer tab extension 1 14 on an outer base 107 first end and second outer tab extension 1 1 6 on an outer base 107 second end. Similarly, inner panel 1 10 may include first inner tab extension 1 22 on an inner base 1 1 2 first end and second inner tab extension 1 24 on an inner base 1 1 2 second end. At least a portion of first outer tab extension 1 14 may be affixed to at least a portion of first inner tab extension 1 22, and at least a portion of second outer tab extension 1 1 6 may be affixed to at least a portion of second inner tab extension 1 24.

[0032] Indexing device 1 95 may be disposed on the obverse of outer panel 105 approximately at an end of outer base 107. First fastener element 1 30 generally is disposed generally opposite indexing element 1 95, and generally at another end on the obverse side of panel 105. For example, indexing element 1 95 may be affixed to first outer tab extension 1 14 and first fastener element 1 30 may be affixed to second outer tab extension 1 16. Of course, an opposite orientation also could be provided.

[0033] For simplicity, a two-element fastener is depicted as being used with gear 100, although a fastener used with gear 1 00 is not so limited. A non- limiting example of a two-element fastener, which may be used with gear 100, includes a hook-and-loop type fastener, with a loop portion generally corresponding to fastener element 1 31 (not shown) and a hook portion generally corresponding to corresponding to fastener element 1 30. In embodiments with fabric hook-and-loop fasteners, fastener tabs 1 30, 1 31 are disposed to adjustably overlap, so that user 101 (not shown) may comfortably and removably don gear 100. Alternatively, fastener 1 30, 1 31 may be, without limitation, a button- (or stud-) and-eyelet closure, a hook-and-eye closure, a snap closure, a tie closure, a toggle, or a clasp closure. However, as noted relative to retention pleat 1 50, use of a generally soft, pliant, and secure yet easy-to-remove closure may minimize injury which may occur from a vigorous or even forceful thrust of fastener 1 30, 1 31 against a proximate portion of the body of user 1 01 .

[0034] Indexing device 1 95 may be constituted of a firm, flexible material, such as a leather, a rubber, or a plastic material, which may be perceived through user gloves (not shown). Indexing device 1 95 may facilitate placement or adjustment of gear 1 00 on user 101 , as well as provide user 1 01 with perceptible indicia by which fastener elements 1 30, 1 31 may quickly be undone or adjusted in relative position, or that gear 1 00 may rapidly be removed from user 1 01 .

[0035] Second fastener element 1 31 generally is disposed on the reverse of a portion of gear 100, substantially adjacent and rearward to indexing element 195. For example, in a configuration where indexing element 1 95 is disposed on the obverse side and affixed to first outer tab extension 1 14, at least a portion of second fastener element 1 31 may be affixed to first inner tab extension 1 22. The general configuration of embodiments having these features can include gear 100 being wrapped around the head of user 101 , and aligned so that at least a portion of first fastener element 1 30 is releasably affixed to at least a portion of second fastener element 1 31 .

[0036] Turning to FIG. 2, a plan view of inner panel 1 10 of the reverse side of gear 1 00 is depicted. FIG. 2 is a. Inner panel 1 1 0 includes first tab extension 1 22 on an inner base first end and a second tab extension 1 24 on an inner base second end. Each of tab extensions 1 22, 1 24 extend horizontally from respective portions of inner base 1 1 2. In selected embodiments, a portion of outer base 1 07 of outer panel 1 05 is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of inner base 1 1 2 of inner panel 1 1 0. First tab extension 1 64, which may be disposed on one end of inner base 1 1 2, may be attached to form a common first tab extension 1 62 with first outer tab extension 1 1 4 on outer base 1 07 and, similarly, second inner tab extension 1 22 on a substantially other end of inner base 1 1 2 forms a common second tab extension 1 64 with second outer tab extension 1 1 6 of outer base 1 07. Outer panel 1 05 may be attached to inner panel 1 1 0 to create a spatial separation between the reverse side of outer panel 1 05 and the obverse side of inner panel 1 1 0.

[0037] One or more of indexing element 1 95 , first fastener element 1 30, or second fastener element 1 31 also may be affixed to a respective one of a common tab extension. For example, indexing element 1 95 may be affixed to the obverse side of common first tab extension 1 62 ; second fastener element 1 31 may be affixed to the reverse side of common first tab extension 1 62; and first fastener element 1 30 may be affixed to the obverse side of common second tab extension 1 64.

[0038] The material of respirator panel 1 25 may be woven, non-woven, knitted, or perforated, at least in part. Typically, respirator panel 1 25 may be provided as fabric having a capability of wicking moisture away from the immediate area of contact with user 1 01 . In one non-limiting example, respirator panel 1 25 may be constituted of 1 00% polyester open mesh jersey cloth, which may be at least partially hydrophobic. A respirator constituted of 1 00% ventilated polyester mesh material on the face /mouth area for comfort and may help to prevent expired moisture from fogging goggles 1 70. However, perforated, porous, or open-weave cloth other than open mesh jersey cloth also may be used effectively. Panel 1 25 may be provided as a U-shaped portion of material having a width of between about two inches to about eight inches wide, and a height of between about two inches to about eight inches high. Respirator panel 1 25 may be attached, in part or in whole, by sewing, by fusible fabric bonding, or by both. In FIG. 2, "width" can be a dimension measured generally parallel to base 1 1 2, and "height" can be a dimension measured generally perpendicular to "width. A typical respirator panel 1 25 may be about five inches wide and about five inches high, although other dimensions and configurations certainly are within the scope of the present teachings. Panel 1 25 can be disposed near the approximate midpoint of inner base 1 1 2, adjacent to retention pleat 1 50. Panel 1 25 can be sewn, bonded, or welded to an inner surface of inner panel 1 1 0. An air gap or pocket may form between panel 1 25 and panel 1 1 0 and, by extension, between a portion of user 1 01 in proximity with panel 1 25. Such an air gap may provide respite from ambient environmental conditions, including wind, rain, snow, ice, cold, sand, dust, or heat.

[0039] Panel 1 1 0 may have a greater fabric density, or thickness, than panel 1 05. Panel 1 1 0 also may be configured to have longer sides than panel 1 05, and be capable of being tucked inside of another garment worn by user 1 01 , such as, without limitation, a jacket, a shirt, a duster, or a pullover top.

[0040] A plurality of standoffs, generally at 1 90, may be disposed on one or more vertically-inclined edges of panel 1 05, which depend from base 1 07, and may assist in preserving at least partial spatial separation between outer panel 105 and inner panel 1 1 0. Standoff 1 90 may be formed generally along outer base 107 by sizing outer panel 1 05 to drape or fold generally parallel to inner base 1 1 2. Spatial separation may facilitate at least some air entrapment between panels 105 and 1 1 0, may prevent panel 1 05 from lying flat against panel 1 10, and may enhance the effects of respired air warming, airborne particle filtration, or air moisture management, which may be desirable in harsh environments. For example, exhaled air may warm panels 1 05 and 1 10 under cold ambient conditions, so that inhaled air may be warmed during inhalation. At the same time, the at least partial spatial separation between panels 1 05 and 1 1 0 tends to inhibit condensation of moisture on outer panel 1 05, proximal to the nose and mouth, increasing comfort to the user. A cooling effect similarly may be produced in hot environments, for example, by providing a zone for expired moisture to evaporate and to moderate the temperature and humidity of inhaled air. In addition, inhaled air particulate can be filtered out of incoming air by one or both of panels 105 and 1 10, with standoffs 1 90 permitting an alternate path for air flow through panel 1 1 0 should the fabric pores of panel 105 become clogged, for example, with dust.

[0041 ] Standoffs 1 90 can be formed from gathered threads from panel 105 edges, which may be knotted to fashion a standoff body of sufficient dimension to produce the desired standoff effect between panels 105 and 1 1 0. Alternately, standoffs 1 90 may be portions of string, yarn, leather, plastic, or other material capable of hanging generally freely and pendently from the respective point of attachment on panel 1 05. Standoffs 1 90 also may include bodies having one or more ornamental beads, baubles, adornments, or trinketry, along with, or in place of knotted gathered threads, although embodiments of gear 1 00 may use generally soft, pliant material for standoffs 1 90, for example, to minimize injury which may occur from a vigorous or even forceful thrust of standoffs 1 90 against a proximate portion of the body of user 1 01 .

[0042] FIG. 4A illustrates a right side view of an embodiment of gear 1 00, relative to FIG. 3, as maybe worn by user 1 01 . Gear 1 00 is illustrated as being disposed such that inner panel 1 1 0 may be held in contact with a portion of user 1 01 , with outer panel 1 05 being attached thereto, yet sized and shaped to provide a spatial separation therebetween. In FIG, 4A, the depicted embodiment of gear 1 00 can include inner panel 1 1 0, outer panel 1 05, a plurality of standoffs 1 90, and indexing element 1 95. Indexing element 1 95 provides user 1 01 with a tactile indication of fastener location. Indexing element 1 95 may be removably fixed in position, for example, generally behind and to the side of the head of user 1 01 , and disposed in a manner allowing a user wearing thick, heavy-duty gloves, to perceive and easily manipulate indexing element 1 95. Such access and ease of manipulation may simplify the task of user 1 01 of quickly adjusting the fit of gear 1 00 around user 1 01 , or of rapidly locating the place of attachment and remove gear 1 00 completely. FIG. 4B illustrates a left side view of an embodiment of gear 1 00, relative to FIG. 3A, as maybe worn by user 1 01 . In FIG. 4B, the depicted embodiment of gear 1 00 can include inner panel 1 1 0, outer panel 1 05, a plurality of standoffs 1 90, and a portion of common tab with loop portion of fastener.

[0043] FIG. 5 illustrates a front plan view of another embodiment of gear. Protective gear 200 may include, without limitation, outer panel 205, inner panel 21 0, liner panel 251 (shown in FIG. 6), and respirator panel 225 (also shown in FIG. 6). In general, one or more of outer panel 205, inner panel 21 0, liner panel 251 , and respirator panel 225 may be constituted of natural, man-made or manufactured material, or a composite thereof, may be plain or treated material, may be woven or non-woven cloth, and may be constituted of a hydrophobic material, a hydrophilic material, or a hygroscopic material or may be a functional combination of two or more layers of hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or hygroscopic materials. In some embodiments, liner panel 251 may be formed from fleece, bamboo charcoal, or other suitable materials known to skilled artisans. According to application, other panels of gear 1 00 and 200 may be formed from these and similar materials as well. As liner panel 251 may generally reside on a user's face, it may be made out of a soft material that is comfortable to a user's skin and conformable to a user's face. Moreover, liner panel 251 may provide insulating characteristics to the head gear 200 and thus be useful in cold weather conditions. Any or all of the panels 205, 21 0, 225, 251 may also be a sized portion of cloth, which may be unilayer cloth or multilayer cloth, and may be generally soft and flexible. Of course, additional panels other than 205, 21 0, 225 and 251 may be used to form gear 200. Although panels 205, 21 0, and 25 1 may be of a similar shape and size, it is contemplated that panels 205, 21 0, and 251 as well as additional panels, if any, may be of different size and shape. Panels 205, 21 0, and 251 may be joined, at least in part, by sewing, by use of a fusible bonding agent, or by both.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 6, liner panel 251 is configured with a liner obverse side 252 (not shown), liner reverse side 254, liner base 256, and liner apex 258. Measured on the horizontal axis, the width of liner base 256 is less than the base widths of the outer panel 205 and inner panel 21 0 in this embodiment. This decreased width may facilitate improved flexibility of the head gear 200. In particular, when adding liner panel 251 to the outer 205 and inner panels 210, the flexibility of the head gear may decrease, particularly when the liner material is thick, dense, and/or relatively rigid. In this embodiment, by shortening the width of liner base 256 to less than the base of the outer 205 and inner panels 210, flexibility and comfort of the head gear 200 may be maintained, while also retaining the insulating characteristics of the liner panel 251 . Liner panel 251 may also provide increased stability to the head gear 200, useful in windy conditions and thus may generally aid in blocking cold wind from a user's neck and surrounding areas to increase the comfort of the user in cold weather conditions. Liner panel 251 also may also exhibit some hydrophilic characteristics, further contributing to the comfort of user by moderating ambient nuisances as it reduces the moisture trapped within liner panel 251 against the face of user.

[0045] Respirator panel 225 can be disposed near the approximate midpoint of liner base 256, adjacent to retention pleat 250. Panel 225 can be sewn, bonded, or welded to liner panel 251 as shown in FIG. 6. Panel 225 can also be sewn, bonded, or welded to an inner surface of inner panel 21 0 or affixed in other manners to the headgear 200 without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0046] One or both of outer panel 205 and inner panel 210 can be shaped having a generally triangular form, including panel base 207, 21 2, respectively, with two panel sides extending from the panel base to a panel apex. While the liner panel 251 can also have a generally triangular form, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5-6, the triangular shape is truncated on both sides, enhancing flexibility of the layered gear 200. Typically, a reverse surface of outer panel 205 can be proximate to the obverse surface of inner panel 21 0. In general, inner panel 21 0 may be sized between about one foot to about three feet along inner base 21 2, with an example size being about two feet (about 60 cm.), as measured along inner base 21 2. In addition, inner panel 21 0 may be sized between about one-half foot to about three feet, as measured from inner base 21 2 to inner apex 21 5 (as shown in FIG. 5), with an example size being about 1 4 inches (about 35 cm). Gear 200 can be configured such that liner panel 25 1 may be placed adjacent to a portion of the head of user, which may include the face.

[0047] Liner panel 251 may be sized and shaped to be disposed on the face of user and may be sized between about one-half foot and about three feet along liner base 256, with an example size being about 1 6 inches (about 40 cm.), as measured along liner base 256. In addition, liner panel 251 may be sized between about one-half foot to about three feet, as measured from liner base 256 to liner apex 258, with an example size being about 1 4 inches (about 35 cm).

[0048] Dimensions of outer panel 205 may be similar to dimensions of inner panel 21 0, or may be different. For example, outer panel may be sized between about one foot to about three feet along outer base 207 and may be sized between about one-half foot to about three feet, as measured from outer base 207 to outer apex 297 (as shown in FIG. 5). In some other embodiments, outer panel 21 0 can have dimensions that may be up to 50% different from those of inner panel 21 0, with the difference being larger or smaller.

[0049] In some embodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 5-6, outer panel 205 and/or inner panel 21 0 can have dimensions different from those of liner panel 251 . Liner panel 251 can be detachably, or permanently, attached to inner panel 21 0 and/or outer panel 205. In this embodiment, all sides of liner panel 251 are sewn to inner panel 21 0. In other embodiments, liner panel 251 may be coupled to inner 21 0 and/or outer panels 205 in a variety of other manners. For instance, upright sides 272, 274 of liner panel may remain free from inner panel 21 0. The remaining outer edges of liner panel 251 may be sewn or bonded to inner panel 21 0. Also, outer base 207 of outer panel 205 and/or inner base 21 2 of inner panel 21 0 may be attached in part, or in whole, with liner base 256 of liner panel 251 . In certain embodiments, at least one portion of outer base 207 (shown in FIG. 7) and/or inner base 21 2 can be attached to at least a portion of liner base 256. As shown in FIG. 6, liner panel 251 is coupled to inner panel 21 0 along the respective bases of the panels, the upright sides 272, 274 of liner panel, and the remainder of the liner panel. In this embodiment, liner panel 251 is formed with a U-shaped opening along its base. The respirator panel 225 is sized similarly and sewn into the U-shaped opening, although the respirator may be coupled to the liner panel or the inner panel in other ways. This configuration provides warmth and comfort to the user while maintaining acceptable breathing air circulation. For instance, when the liner panel 251 is made from fleece, such material may provide heat retaining insulation and comfortably rest on a user's face. However, when placed in front of the user's nose and/or mouth, the fleece may, in some instances, make it difficult for the user to breath. With the incorporation of the respirator panel 225, air may pass to and from the user through the inner 21 0, outer 205, and respirator panels 225. Because the remainder of the panels may be formed from materials such as cotton that generally support breathability, air flow to and from the user is retained. The liner panel 251 may also enhance the rigidity of the gear 200 by providing another layer of material to protect against the elements. In particular, wind may be partly blocked from contacting the user's neck by way of the increased rigidity of the gear 200 with the liner panel. As shown in FIG. 6, with a base width less than that of the outer 205 or inner 21 0 panels, the liner panel 251 may be configured to minimally inhibit the flexibility of the head gear 200 and thus the ability of the head gear to conformingly wrap around the user's head and to be comfortable to the user.

[0050] Turning again to FIGS. 5-6, the protective head gear 200 further includes openings for the passage of earphone wires or similar devices. The openings in this example are formed as loops 276, 278 approximately one inch long and located in proximity to the ears of a user when the head gear is placed around the user's head and over their face. The loops are sewn to the head gear, but may be secured in other suitable manners such as through a bond. Earphone wires may pass from an earpiece located on or in the user's ears, through the loops in the head gear, to a portable electronic device such as an mp3 player. When the user turns his or her head, the portion of the earphone wires close to the ear will tend to move with the head gear 200 (fastened to the user's head). In this configuration, the wires may be less likely to interfere with the mask or pull the earphones from the user's ears as they are kept in an orderly arrangement. The wires may be passed through the head gear 200 either on the outside or inside of the gear, and then passed along to a portable electronic device which may be located on or underneath the user's clothing. In other embodiments, the headgear may be formed with different configurations to support other electronic or similar devices. For instance, the head gear may be formed with slits therein in close proximity to the ears. The slits may accept earphone wires such that the wires pass from the ear, through the slits, and then underneath the headgear to a portable electronic device. The shape and size of the openings may be altered as necessary as well as the number of openings. Furthermore, alternative locations for one or more openings may also be provided.

[0051 ] The head gear shown in FIGS. 5-6 also includes elastic members 282, 284 connected to portions of the panels. In this example, elastic is sewn along the inner and outer bases in equidistant locations. The elastic members are enclosed by the outer 205 and inner panel 21 0 and generally hidden within the headgear. While the head gear 200 is not being worn, portions of the outer 205 and inner 21 0 panels may appear to be folded up as the elastic members contract the head gear along the respective bases. The elastic members 282, 284 may provide flexibility to the head gear 200 for ease of use. For instance, the elastic may be configured such that there is little need to fasten or unfasten the gear after the user fits the gear according to their preference. In particular, the elastic members 282, 284 may be sized such that the mask can be lowered around the neck, placed around the head, and removed from the head while keeping the head gear 200 fastened. This would enable the user to have one setting according to his or her comfort that would not have to be readjusted when the head gear 200 is removed and placed back on. Further, the tension provided by the elastic members 282, 284 may provide a snug, yet comfortable fit when the user fits the head gear 200 to their head. The elastic members also may provide the head gear 200 with versatility such that it can be worn by multiple users with different sized heads to the contraction and expansion properties of the elastic. Further, the head gear 200 can, in some embodiments, be formed without fasteners, such that the elastic members compensate for the expansion of the head gear 200 when it is placed over a user's head and operate to securely retain the head gear on a user's face when the head gear is fitted. The elastic members 282, 284 may also compensate for material deformation in the head gear 200 due to weather and/or use. Particularly, as materials such as cotton tend to deform with varying weather conditions, over time, and with wash cycles, the elastic may compensate for this deformation and retain the headgear's ability to conform to the user's head.

[0052] FIG. 7 illustrates a right side view of an embodiment of gear 200, as may be worn by user 101 . Gear 200 is illustrated as being disposed such that liner panel 251 may be held in contact with a portion of user 1 01 , with inner 210 and outer panel 205 being attached thereto, yet sized and shaped to provide a spatial separation 21 1 between inner and outer panels. The depicted embodiment of gear 200 can include inner panel 21 0, outer panel 205, liner panel 251 (not shown) a plurality of standoffs 290, and indexing element 295. Indexing element 295 provides user 1 01 with a tactile indication of fastener location. Indexing element 295 may be removably fixed in position, for example, generally behind and to the side of the head of user 101 , and disposed in a manner allowing a user wearing thick, heavy-duty gloves, to perceive and easily manipulate indexing element 295. Such access and ease of manipulation may simplify the task of user 101 of quickly adjusting the fit of gear 200 around user 101 , or of rapidly locating the place of attachment and remove gear 200 completely. [0053] Components including, but not limited to, retention pleat 250, first outer tab extension 214, second outer tab extension 21 6, first inner tab extension 222, second inner tab extension 224, first fastener element 230, second fastener element 231 , first tab extension 262, second tab extension 264, standoffs 290, and indexing element 295 may be configured similar to similar elements of head gear 100 shown in FIGS. 1 -4B. Further, outer 1 05, 205 and inner 1 1 0, 210 panels may be formed in a number of shapes including, but not limited to, those illustrated in the figures as well as overall triangular shapes wherein the outer and inner panels of gear 1 00 and 200 generally resemble triangles with the fastening components, as well as the related components, incorporated into the triangular- shaped panels, rather than protruding outwardly along the bases of the panels as shown in the referenced figures.

[0054] Embodiments of gear 100 and 200 are configured to be versatile protective clothing. For example, gear 100 and 200 also can be worn as a neckerchief for warmth in cold weather, yet it also may be configured to be not as hot or uncomfortably thick around the neck of user during hot days as an ordinary shemagh may be. Gear 1 00 and 200 can also incorporate panels, materials and/or substances having anti-microbial properties to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, or protozoans. Gear 100 and 200 also can be easily donned or removed and may be more easily adjusted for use, even if user may be wearing thick gloves.

[0055] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or element of any or all the claims. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are defined as one, or more than one. The term "plurality", as used herein, is defined as two, or more than two. The term "another", as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms "including" and/or "having", as used herein, are defined as "comprising" (i.e., open language). The term "attached", as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly.

[0056] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1 . A protective head gear for a user, comprising:

an outer panel having an outer obverse side and an outer reverse side, the outer panel having a outer base and an outer apex generally perpendicular to the base;

an inner panel having an inner obverse side and an inner reverse side, the inner panel having an inner base, an inner base midpoint, and an inner apex generally perpendicular to the inner base;

a liner panel having a liner obverse side, liner reverse side, and an opening therein, the liner panel having a liner base narrower than the inner base, and a liner apex generally perpendicular to the liner base;

a respirator panel having a respirator obverse side and a respirator reverse side;

a retention pleat formed in the inner panel at least in proximity with the inner base midpoint and positioned approximately distally to and in parallel with the inner apex;

wherein a portion of the outer base is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base, a portion of the liner base is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base, the respirator panel is located at least partly within the opening of the liner panel to facilitate breathing through the protective head gear, an efficacious spatial gap is formed when the portion of the outer base is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base, and the retention pleat is formed to retain a portion of the user.

2. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , further comprising a fastener attached to at least one end of one or both of the outer panel and the inner panel, wherein the fastener is formed to adjustably and releasably secure at least a portion of the inner panel to the user.

3. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of loops coupled at least to the outer panel and configured to accept earphone wires therethrough.

4. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of slits formed in corresponding sections of the outer and inner panels, the slits configured to accept earphone wires therethrough.

5. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of elastic members coupled with at least one of the outer or inner panels and configured to provide stretching capabilities to the head gear.

6. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , wherein the liner panel is comprised of fleece material.

7. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , wherein at least one panel is comprised of bamboo charcoal material.

8. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , wherein at least one panel is comprised of cotton material.

9. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , further comprising an indexing device affixed to an end of the obverse side of the outer panel, wherein the indexing device is indexingly and removably affixed to a portion of the fastener.

10. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , wherein the respirator panel further comprises a perforated cloth having an at least partly hydrophobic absorption characteristic.

1 1 . The protective head gear of Claim 1 , wherein the respirator panel is coupled to the liner panel.

1 2. The protective head gear of Claim 1 , wherein the obverse side of the outer panel further comprises an at least partly hydrophobic absorption characteristic.

1 3. A protective head gear for a user, comprising:

an outer panel having an outer obverse side and an outer reverse side, the outer panel having an outer base and an outer apex generally perpendicular to the base;

an inner panel having an inner obverse side and an inner reverse side, the inner panel having an inner base and an inner apex generally perpendicular to the inner base;

a liner panel configured to at least partly rest against a user's face, the liner panel having a liner obverse side, liner reverse side and an opening therein; a retention pleat formed in the inner panel at least in proximity with the inner base midpoint and positioned approximately distally to and in parallel with the inner apex;

a respirator panel attached to an upper portion of the reverse side of the liner panel, approximately rearward of the retention pleat;

a fastener attached to at least one end of one or both of the outer panel and the inner panel;

an indexing device affixed to an end of the obverse side of the outer panel, wherein the indexing device is indexingly and removably affixed to a portion of the fastener;

wherein a portion of the outer base is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base, a portion of the liner base is at least partly attached to a portion of the inner base, an efficacious spatial gap is formed when the portion of the outer base is at least partly attached to a corresponding portion of the inner base, a portion of the outer reverse side is proximate to a portion of the inner obverse side, a spatial separation is disposed between the outer reverse side and the inner obverse side, portions of the outer panel and inner panel are configured with at least one elastic component such that the head gear may expand and contract, at least one loop opening is coupled to the head gear for accepting an earphone wire therethrough, the retention pleat is formed to retain a portion of the user, the fastener is formed to adjustably and releasably secure at least a portion of the liner panel to the user, and the respirator panel is located at least partly within the opening of the liner panel to facilitate breathing through the protective head gear.

14. A rough-duty face shield for a user having a preselected user body portion, comprising:

a open outer layer composed of a first fabric having a generally large-pore construction, wherein the open outer layer remains efficaciously tight in construction to trap or repel or both particulate matter from intruding from an environment around the user;

a tight inner layer composed of a second fabric, wherein the inner layer is constructed to remain capable of permitting an efficacious air flow to the user between the obverse side of the inner layer and the reverse side of the inner layer, and wherein a portion of the outer layer is affixed to drape over a portion of the inner layer, thereby forming a spatial separation between the inner layer and the outer layer;

a tight liner layer composed of a third fabric having a generally narrow-pore construction, wherein the liner layer is constructed to provide insulating properties to the shield;

a retention pocket formed into the liner layer, generally coinciding with a preselected user body portion, formed to be resiliently and releasably retained on the preselected user body portion during use; and

a respirator formed of a fourth fabric in the liner layer generally proximate to the preselected user body portion, composed of a soft fabric having a generally wide-pore construction, wherein fabric holes of the wide-pore construction are substantially larger than fabric holes of the large-pore construction, and holes of large-pore construction are substantially larger than fabric holes of the narrow- pore construction.

1 5. The rough-duty face shield of Claim 14, wherein at least one of the open outer layer, the tight inner layer, the tight liner layer, the retention pocket, or the respirator is formed from a multilayer fabric.

1 6. The rough-duty face shield of Claim 14, wherein at least a portion of one of the open outer layer, the tight inner layer, the tight liner layer, the retention pocket, or the respirator, is formed from a fabric having a repellent characteristic with respect to a predetermined solvent.

1 7. The rough-duty face shield of Claim 14, wherein at least a portion of the respirator has a hydrophobic repellent characteristic and the predetermined solvent is water.

1 8. The rough duty face shield of Claim 14, further comprising a plurality of standoffs selectively disposed around the periphery of the outer layer and at least partially positioned between the inner layer and the outer layer forming a spatial separation therebetween, wherein the inner layer is formed with a surface area at least 25% larger than the inner layer.

1 9. The rough duty face shield of Claim 14, further comprising an indexed fastener, including a fastener portion attached to one or both base ends of one or both of the inner panel or the outer panel, and an indexing portion attached to a portion of the fastener portion, positioned to identify to the user the location of the fastener portion, relative to other portions of the shield, and formed of a material markedly more firm than the outer layer, the inner layer, the liner layer, and the respirator by which a shield user can unambiguously discern the location of the indexing portion.

20. The rough duty face shield of Claim 14, wherein at least one layer is formed from bamboo charcoal material.

21 . The rough duty face shield of Claim 14, wherein at least one layer is formed from fleece material.