U.S. patent application number 10/957213 was filed with the patent office on 2005-05-19 for interchangeable eyewear assembly.
Invention is credited to Fujiuchi, Toshiro, Lerner, Ira.
Application Number | 20050105041 10/957213 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34421772 |
Filed Date | 2005-05-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050105041 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lerner, Ira ; et
al. |
May 19, 2005 |
Interchangeable eyewear assembly
Abstract
An eyewear system enables a person to switch lenses among a
variety of frames or switch a variety of lenses within a single
frame. The lenses are positioned in one or more subframe assemblies
that can be easily attached to and detached from a frame assembly
that may not otherwise contain lenses.
Inventors: |
Lerner, Ira; (New York,
NY) ; Fujiuchi, Toshiro; (Sakai-gun, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET
FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
34421772 |
Appl. No.: |
10/957213 |
Filed: |
October 1, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60508674 |
Oct 2, 2003 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
351/57 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C03C 3/062 20130101;
G02C 2200/02 20130101; C03C 3/125 20130101; C03C 4/0071 20130101;
G02C 9/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
351/057 |
International
Class: |
G02C 007/08 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An eyeglass assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe
assembly, said frame assembly comprising a pair of temples, said
frame assembly also comprising a front side and a back side, said
back side of said frame assembly being closer to a wearer's face
than said front side, said subframe assembly comprising at least
one lens, said at least one subframe assembly comprising a front
side and a back side, said back side of said subframe assembly
being closer to said wearer's face than said front side of said
subframe assembly, said subframe assembly being secured to said
frame assembly at least in part by at least one pair of magnetic
members such that said front side of said subframe assembly faces
said back side of said frame assembly and said subframe assembly is
at least partially positioned between said frame assembly and said
wear's face, a first magnetic member of said at least one pair of
magnetic members being a magnet that is secured to one of said
frame assembly and said subframe assembly and a second magnetic
member of said at least one pair of magnetic members being a magnet
or a material that is attracted to a magnet and said second
magnetic member being secured to said other of said frame assembly
and said subframe assembly such that said first magnetic member and
said second magnetic member are generally aligned when said
subframe assembly is secured to said frame assembly.
2. The eyewear of claim 1, wherein said subframe assembly comprises
said first magnetic member.
3. The eyewear of claim 2, wherein said first magnetic member is
positioned generally towards said front side of said subframe
assembly.
4. The eyewear of claim 3, wherein said frame assembly comprises
said second magnetic member.
5. The eyewear of claim 4, wherein said second magnetic member is
positioned generally toward said back side of said frame
assembly.
6. An eyeglass assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe
assembly, said frame assembly comprising a front side and a back
side, said back side being closer to a face of a wearer than said
front side, said frame assembly further comprising a first brow
bar, a second brow bar and a bridge connecting said first brow bar
to said second brow bar, said bridge having a first vertical
dimension, a first projection extending from said first brow bar
and a second projection extending from said second brow bar, a
first temple connected to said first projection and a second temple
connected to said second projection; said subframe assembly
comprising a front side and a back side, said back side being
closer to said face of a wearer than said front side, said subframe
assembly further comprising a brow bar, a lens being secured to
said brow bar; said subframe assembly being secured to said frame
assembly such that said front side of said subframe assembly faces
said back side of said frame assembly and such that said front side
of said subframe assembly generally is positioned rearward of said
front side of said frame assembly.
7. The eyewear of claim 6, wherein said front side of said subframe
assembly generally is positioned rearward of said rear side of said
frame assembly.
8. The eyewear of claim 6, wherein said subframe assembly other
than said lens, when secured to said frame assembly, is sized and
positioned to be obscured from view when said eyewear is viewed
from said front.
9. The eyewear of claim 6, wherein said frame assembly does not
comprise any lenses.
10. The eyewear of claim 6 further comprising a second subframe
assembly, said second subframe assembly comprising a front side and
a back side, said back side being closer to the face of the wearer
than said front side, said second subframe assembly further
comprising a brow bar, a lens being secured to said brow bar, said
second subframe assembly also being secured to said frame assembly
such that said front side of said second subframe assembly faces
said back side of said frame assembly and such that said front side
of said second subframe assembly generally is positioned rearward
of said front side of said frame assembly, said first and second
subframe assemblies being positioned side-by-side when secured to
said frame assembly.
11. The eyewear of claim 6, wherein said subframe assembly does not
comprise any temples.
12. The eyewear of claim 6, wherein said subframe assembly does not
comprise any nose pads.
13. The eyewear of claim 6, wherein said frame assembly comprises a
boss that extends rearward and said subframe assembly comprises a
lug that is connected to said brow bar, said lug being positioned
on said boss when said subframe assembly is secured to said frame
assembly.
14. The eyewear of claim 13, wherein said lug comprises a first
magnetic member and said boss comprises a second magnetic member,
said first and second magnetic members being magnetically secured
when said subframe assembly is secured to said frame assembly.
15. The eyewear of claim 14, wherein said first magnetic member is
slightly recessed within said lug and said second magnetic member
extends into said lug when said subframe assembly is secured to
said frame assembly such that said first and second magnetic
members also define a mechanical interlock.
16. The eyewear of claim 6 further comprising a second brow bar, a
second lens being secured to said second brow bar and said second
brow bar being connected to said first brow bar by a bridge, said
bridge being generally obscured from frontal view by said bridge of
said frame assembly when said subframe assembly is secured to said
frame assembly.
17. The eyewear of claim 16 further comprising a member being
connected to said bridge of said frame assembly, said member
defining a valley together with said bridge and said bridge of said
subframe assembly being received within said valley.
18. A method of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system, the eyewear
system comprising a first subframe assembly that comprises a first
lens, a second subframe assembly that comprises a second lens, the
second lens not being matched to the first lens, and a frame
assembly that will accommodate individually both the first subframe
assembly and the second subframe assembly, the method comprising
releasing and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the
frame assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the
frame assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the
frame assembly.
19. A method of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system, the eyewear
system comprising a first subframe assembly that comprises a first
lens and a second lens, a second subframe assembly that comprises a
different first lens and a different second lens, and a frame
assembly that will accommodate individually both the first subframe
assembly and the second subframe assembly, the method comprising
releasing and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the
frame assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the
frame assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the
frame assembly.
20. A method of exchanging frames in an eyewear system, the eyewear
system comprising a first frame assembly that does not comprise a
lens, a second frame assembly that does not comprise a lens, and a
subframe assembly that comprises a lens, the subframe assembly
sized and configured to be accommodated within the first frame
assembly and the second frame assembly, the method comprising
releasing and removing the subframe assembly from behind the first
frame assembly, placing the subframe assembly behind the second
frame assembly and securing the subframe assembly to the second
frame assembly.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
60/508,674, filed on Oct. 2, 2003, which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention generally relates to eyewear frames
and lenses. More particularly, the present invention relates to an
eyewear assembly in which a single set of lenses can be inserted
and removed from behind a plurality of frames or multiple sets of
lenses can be inserted and removed from behind a single frame.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] The cost of quality prescription lenses has risen
dramatically in the past ten years. Many people who wear eyeglasses
today desire so-called progressive lenses in which the power of the
lens varies along the surface of the lens. Unfortunately,
progressive lenses are more expensive than ordinary prescription
lenses or bifocal lenses. Additionally, a type of thin lens that is
designed to replace a relatively thicker lens also is available but
has an elevated cost. Further, coatings and the like can be added
to a lens to, for example, reduce glare or allow the lens to change
tint. These coatings also increase the cost of the lens.
[0006] At the same time, people who wear eyeglasses often purchase
more than one pair of eyeglasses for different functional and
aesthetic reasons. For instance, different eyeglasses may be
purchased to increase strength or comfort, to alter the fit or the
weight, to vary the flexibility or the rigidity or to provide a
different aesthetic look by changing the shape of the frame or the
coloring of the frame. This, of course, requires the purchase of a
complete set of eyewear, including the frame and the expensive
prescription lenses.
[0007] On the other hand, some people purchase more than one pair
of eyewear having a single style of frame but use one of the frames
for tinted lenses and the other for non-tinted lenses. Of course,
these people must then carry both pair of eyewear and must absorb
the additional costs associated with the second frame.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] It would be desirable to create a system of eyewear that
enables a person to use a single pair of lenses with multiple frame
structures or a single frame structure with multiple pairs of
lenses.
[0009] In the first arrangement, the frame structures can vary
among one another by virtue of functionality, features or aesthetic
appearance. As such, variations among the frames can be provided by
design, materials used, coloring, shape, decorations, construction
or the like. Such a system would allow a person who wears eyewear
to have several sets of frames without the need for more than one
set of lenses.
[0010] In the second arrangement, the lenses can vary among one
another by virtue of tinting or magnification features, for
instance. Different eyeglass lenses may also be purchased for
various vision correcting purposes, for purposes such as glare
reduction, magnification, protection from UV rays, lighter weights,
as for aesthetic reasons such as thinness of the lenses, tints and
coloring of the lenses. Thus, a person can maintain a single frame
in which the lenses are removed and replaced quickly and easily to
accommodate changes in the lenses. For instance, sun lenses can be
installed in place of clear lenses or a magnifying lens can be used
in place of a wearer's usual lens.
[0011] Accordingly, one aspect of certain embodiments of the
present invention involves providing a user with one pair of lenses
that can be easily attached and detached to a plurality of
complementary frame designs.
[0012] Another aspect of certain embodiments of the present
invention involves enabling a user to remove the lenses from one
frame and insert the lenses in another frame without the use of
mechanical tools or equipment or enabling a user to remove at least
one lens from a frame and replace that lens with another lens
without the use of mechanical tools or equipment.
[0013] A further aspect of certain embodiments of the present
invention involves enabling an eyeglass wearer to easily attach to
and detach from a single pair of lenses multiple frames without
contacting with one's fingers a region of the lenses through which
one looks.
[0014] An aspect of the present invention also involves an eyeglass
assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe assembly. The
frame assembly comprises a pair of temples, a front side and a back
side. The back side of the frame assembly is closer to a wearer's
face than the front side. The subframe assembly comprises at least
one lens. The subframe assembly also comprises a front side and a
back side. The back side of the subframe assembly is closer to the
wearer's face than the front side of the subframe assembly. The
subframe assembly is secured to the frame assembly at least in part
by at least one pair of magnetic members such that the front side
of the subframe assembly faces the back side of the frame assembly
and the subframe assembly is at least partially positioned between
the frame assembly and the wear's face. A first magnetic member of
the at least one pair of magnetic members is a magnet that is
secured to one of the frame assembly and the subframe assembly and
a second magnetic member of the at least one pair of magnetic
members is a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet and
the second magnetic member being secured to the other of the frame
assembly and the subframe assembly such that the first magnetic
member and the second magnetic member are generally aligned when
the subframe assembly is secured to the frame assembly.
[0015] Another aspect of the present invention involves an eyeglass
assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe assembly. The
frame assembly comprises a front side and a back side with the back
side being closer to a face of a wearer than the front side. The
frame assembly further comprises a first brow bar, a second brow
bar and a bridge connecting the first brow bar to the second brow
bar. A first projection extends from the first brow bar and a
second projection extends from the second brow bar. A first temple
is connected to the first projection and a second temple connected
to the second projection. The subframe assembly comprises a front
side and a back side. The back side is closer to the face of a
wearer than the front side. The subframe assembly further comprises
a brow bar with a lens being secured to the brow bar. The subframe
assembly is secured to the frame assembly such that the front side
of the subframe assembly faces the back side of the frame assembly
and such that the front side of the subframe assembly generally is
positioned rearward of the front side of the frame assembly.
[0016] A further aspect of the present invention involves a method
of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system. The eyewear system
comprises a first subframe assembly that comprises a first lens, a
second subframe assembly that comprises a second lens, the second
lens not being matched to the first lens, and a frame assembly that
will accommodate individually both the first subframe assembly and
the second subframe assembly. The method comprises releasing and
removing the first subframe assembly from behind the frame
assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the frame
assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the frame
assembly.
[0017] A further aspect of the present invention involves a method
of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system. The eyewear system
comprises a first subframe assembly that comprises a first lens and
a second lens, and at least a second subframe assembly that
comprises a different first lens and a different second lens, and a
frame assembly that will accommodate individually each subframe
assembly, which is not limited in number. In other words, three,
four or more subframes can be used. The method comprises releasing
and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the frame
assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the frame
assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the frame
assembly.
[0018] An additional aspect of the present invention involves a
method of exchanging frames in an eyewear system. The eyewear
system comprises a first frame assembly that does not comprise a
lens, a second frame assembly that does not comprise a lens, and a
subframe assembly that comprises a lens where the subframe assembly
is sized and configured to be accommodated within the first frame
assembly and the second frame assembly. The method comprises
releasing and removing the subframe assembly from behind the first
frame assembly, placing the subframe assembly behind the second
frame assembly and securing the subframe assembly to the second
frame assembly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the
present invention will now be described with reference to the
drawings of several preferred embodiments. The illustrated
embodiments are intended to illustrate and not to limit the
invention. The drawings comprise the figures briefly described
below.
[0020] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a first eyewear assembly
comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
[0021] FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the first pair of
lenses.
[0022] FIG. 3 is a side elevation of the first eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the first eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 1.
[0024] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the first
eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 1 with the first pair of
lenses shown removed from the first frame.
[0025] FIG. 6 is a section view taken along the line 6-6 in FIG.
4.
[0026] FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of a second eyewear
assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
[0027] FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses
of the second eyewear assembly.
[0028] FIG. 9 is a side elevation of the second eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 7.
[0029] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the second eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 7.
[0030] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the first pair of lenses as
presented in FIG. 7.
[0031] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the first frame as presented
in FIG. 7.
[0032] FIG. 13 is a section view taken along the line 13-13 in FIG.
12.
[0033] FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of a third eyewear
assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
[0034] FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of the first pair of
lenses of the third eyewear assembly.
[0035] FIG. 16 is a side elevation of the third eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 14.
[0036] FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the third eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 14.
[0037] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a portion of the first pair
of lenses as presented in FIG. 14.
[0038] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a portion of the first
frame as presented in FIG. 14.
[0039] FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a portion of the first pair of
lenses as presented in FIG. 14.
[0040] FIG. 21 is a top plan view of a portion of the first frame
as presented in FIG. 14.
[0041] FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of a fourth eyewear
assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
[0042] FIG. 23 is a front elevation view of the first pair of
lenses of the fourth eyewear assembly.
[0043] FIG. 24 is a side elevation of the fourth eyewear assembly
as presented in FIG. 22.
[0044] FIG. 25 is a top plan view of the fourth eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 22.
[0045] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of the fourth
eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 22 with the first pair of
lenses shown removed from the first frame.
[0046] FIG. 27 is a front elevation view of a fifth eyewear
assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
[0047] FIG. 28 is a front elevation view of the first pair of
lenses of the fifth eyewear assembly.
[0048] FIG. 29 is a side elevation of the fifth eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 27.
[0049] FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the fifth eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 27.
[0050] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a portion of the fifth
eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 27 with the first pair of
lenses shown removed from the first frame.
[0051] FIGS. 32A and 32B are a perspective view of a portion of the
fifth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 27 with the first pair
of lenses shown installed on the first frame.
[0052] FIG. 33 is a front elevation view of a sixth eyewear
assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
[0053] FIG. 34 is a front elevation view of the first pair of
lenses of the sixth eyewear assembly.
[0054] FIG. 35 is a side elevation of the sixth eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 33.
[0055] FIG. 36 is a top plan view of the sixth eyewear assembly as
presented in FIG. 33.
[0056] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a portion of the sixth
eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 33 with the first pair of
lenses shown removed from the first frame.
[0057] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a portion of the sixth
eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 33 with the first pair of
lenses shown installed on the first frame.
[0058] FIG. 39 is a front elevation view of a seventh eyewear
assembly comprising a first frame and a pair of first lenses.
[0059] FIG. 40 is a front elevation view of the pair of first
lenses of the seventh eyewear assembly.
[0060] FIG. 41A is a perspective view of one of the first lenses
being connected to the first frame of the seventh eyewear assembly
as presented in FIG. 39.
[0061] FIG. 41B is a perspective view of the first lens showing in
FIG. 41A after being rotated into position on the first frame of
the seventh eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 39.
[0062] FIGS. 42A and 42B illustrate in front view the fitting of
the lens to the frame shown in FIGS. 41A and 41B.
[0063] FIG. 43 is a front elevation view of the first frame of the
seventh eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 39.
[0064] FIG. 44 is a front elevation view of the pair of first
lenses of the seventh eyewear assembly.
[0065] FIG. 45 is a side elevation view of the seventh eyewear
assembly.
[0066] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of a portion of the seventh
eyewear.
[0067] FIG. 47 is a sectioned view taken along the line 47-47 in
FIG. 46.
[0068] FIG. 48 is a partially sectioned view of a portion of the
seventh eyewear assembly showing a connection between one of the
first lenses and the first frame.
[0069] FIG. 49 is a front elevation view of an eighth eyewear
assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
[0070] FIG. 50 is a front elevation view of the first pair of
lenses of the eighth eyewear assembly.
[0071] FIG. 51 is a top plan view of the eighth eyewear
assembly.
[0072] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a portion of the eighth
eyewear assembly.
[0073] FIGS. 53 and 54 illustrate in schematic fashion that a
single pair of lenses can be used interchangeably with a plurality
of frames to create some flexibility in eyewear fashion and
function.
[0074] FIG. 55 illustrates in schematic fashion that a single frame
assembly can be used with a variety of different lens
combinations.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0075] Prior to describing each of the illustrated embodiments,
some general comments are set forth. As shown in the drawings,
various mechanisms can be provided by which a set of lenses can be
removably connected to a frame assembly. In most embodiments of the
present invention, the lens assembly will be mounted rearward of a
front surface, and more preferably a rear surface, of the frame
assembly. Desirably, the frame assembly will obscure at least a
portion of the lens assembly. As such, certain features, aspects
and advantages of the present invention can be used with
eyeglasses, sunglasses, goggles, protective eyewear and the
like.
[0076] Thus, either the lenses can be replaced by other lenses
relative to a single frame assembly or the frame assembly can be
replaced by another frame assembly relative to the lenses or both.
In one embodiment, auxiliary lenses can be placed behind the
primary lenses such that magnifiers, sun lenses, corrective lenses
or the like can be positioned behind a primary lens. As shown in
FIGS. 53 and 54, a single set of lenses contained in a subframe
assembly can be installed in any number of frame assemblies to
provide completed eyewear. FIG. 53 shows an arrangement with a
mechanical interconnection between the subframe assembly and the
frame assembly while FIG. 54 shows an arrangement with a magnetic
interconnection between the subframe assembly and the frame
assembly. FIG. 55 illustrates the use of a single frame assembly
with subframe assemblies comprising blue lenses, brown lenses and
clear lenses. Other lens variations also can be used.
Configurations such as those shown in FIGS. 53-55 will address the
desires to use either a single set of lenses with multiple frames,
a single frame with multiple sets of lenses or multiples sets of
lenses with multiple frames.
[0077] As used herein and as discussed in further detail below, the
frame assembly preferably comprises a brow bar, a pair of temples
and a bridge but other suitable frame assemblies also can be used.
The frame can be made of any suitable material and in any suitable
manner. Notably, the frame assembly advantageously is not provided
with any lenses that are secured within optical openings of the
frame assembly in any typical fashion.
[0078] Instead, the lenses preferably are mounted in the sub-frame
or in a pair of sub-frames that are independently mountable to the
frame assembly. The sub-frame or sub-frames in the illustrated
arrangements preferably do not feature temples or nose support
pads. Instead, once mounted in the frame assembly, the frame
assembly provides these components. In some embodiments, however,
the frame assembly may be made without the temples and/or the nose
support pads and these components can be mounted to the sub-frame
or sub-frames. Such a construction, however, reduces the illusion
of an integrated frame and lens assembly. The sub-frame preferably
is of the semi-rimless variety to increase the number of frame
assembly variations with which the sub-frame can be used. In some
embodiments, the sub-frame can comprise a very narrow frame,
however, the integrity of the frame assembly can become a concern
in such embodiments.
[0079] The illustrated embodiments depict two general types of
interconnection techniques with which the subframe assembly can be
secured to the frame assembly: magnetic interlock and mechanical
interlock. A combination of a magnetic interlock and a mechanical
interlock also can be used. While a few mechanical interlocking
constructions are illustrated, a variety of other suitable types of
interlocking constructions also can be used. In some arrangements,
these mechanical interlocks can be snap-fit. With respect to the
magnetic interlock, magnetic members are provided on at least one
of the frame assembly or the lens assembly. The magnetic members
can be a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet (e.g.,
a ferrous metal). Therefore, each pair of attracting magnetic
members includes at least one magnetic member that is a magnet
while the other magnetic member may be a magnet or a material that
is attracted to a magnet. The magnetic members can have any
suitable shape and size. The magnetic members can be embedded,
recessed, positioned flush with or raised from the surface to which
or in which the magnetic member is secured. Preferably, a pair of
magnetic members is provided such that one of the pair is in or on
the frame assembly and the other is in or on a corresponding region
of the subframe assembly. The magnetic members can be attached in
any suitable manner, including without limitation, embedding,
adhering, or through the use of a sleeve or housing. In some
embodiments, the frame assembly or the subframe assembly can
include a component made of a magnetic member, such as a brow bar
or the like. The magnetic members can be used to join the frame
assembly to the subframe assembly regardless of whether there is
direct contact between the paired magnetic members. Accordingly,
"magnetically secured" means that the magnetic force between the
respective magnetic members is sufficient to hold the subframe
assembly in a usable position relative to the frame assembly.
[0080] The specific illustrated embodiments now will be described,
beginning with the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-6. In the
arrangement of FIGS. 1-6, the eyewear 100 generally comprises a
frame assembly 102 and a lens subframe assembly 104 (see, for
example, FIG. 2). As introduced above, the lens subframe assembly
104 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 102 rearward of
the frame assembly 102 such that at least a portion of the lens
subframe assembly 104 will be positioned between the frame assembly
102 and the eye of a wearer. As used herein, the term rearward
means on the side adjacent the eyes and forward means in the
opposite direction.
[0081] The frame assembly 102 preferably comprises a brow bar 110,
a pair of temples 112 and a bridge 114. The brow bar 110 and the
temples 112 can be connected in any suitable manner. In the
arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, corresponding hinges 116
connect the temples 112 to the brow bar 110. More particularly,
projections 118 extend from the brow bar 110 and the hinges 116
connect the brow bar 110 to the projections 118. Other suitable
configurations can be used.
[0082] The bridge 114 extends in a region generally corresponding
to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated
arrangement, the brow bar 110 actually is formed in two portions
that are connected by the bridge 114. Other suitable configurations
can be used including, but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at
least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the
bridge 114. Any of the above described components of the frame
assembly 102 may be omitted or integrated with other components in
some embodiments. For instance, the temples 112 can be omitted
where other technology or other structure is used to secure the
eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes. The frame
assembly 102 also can comprise other structures, such as nose pads
and the structures that connect the nose pads to the rest of the
frame assembly 102.
[0083] With reference now to FIG. 2, the lens subframe assembly 104
in the arrangement of FIGS. 1-6 comprises a pair of lenses 120. A
brow bar 122 and a bridge 124 combine in the illustrated
arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe
assembly 104. Preferably, the brow bar 122 and the bridge 124 have
a smaller profile in front view such that the brow bar 122 and the
bridge 124 of the subframe assembly 104 can be concealed by the
brow bar 110 and the bridge 114 of the frame assembly 102, as shown
by the hidden lines in FIG. 1.
[0084] The subframe assembly 104 preferably is of the rimless or
semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of
alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame
assembly while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly 104
to be masked. In the arrangement of FIGS. 1-6, the subframe
assembly 104 comprises a lower nylon cord 126 that secures the
lenses 120 to the brow bar 122. Other manners of securing the
lenses 120 within or to the subframe assembly 104 can be used. For
instance, in some arrangements, the lenses 120 can be secured with
clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling
frames, eyewires or the like.
[0085] As described above, the subframe assembly 104 advantageously
mounts to the frame assembly 102 in a manner that provides an
appearance of integrated eyewear rather than removably connected
lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated arrangement, the
subframe assembly 104 mounts behind the frame assembly 102 and the
mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 102
such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the
sight of one viewing the frame assembly 102 from the front.
[0086] With reference to FIGS. 4 and 6, the bridge 124 of the
subframe assembly 104 is positioned behind the bridge 114 of the
frame assembly 102. A flange 130 extends rearward from the bridge
114 of the illustrated frame assembly 102. The flange can have any
suitable configuration. Desirably, the flange 130 is configured to
have a vertical dimension that is the same as or less than a
vertical dimension of the bridge 114 of the frame assembly 102. The
flange 130 in the illustrated arrangement comprises a wire-type of
member that extends rearward and curves upward to define a hook.
The flange 130 has an offset that is slightly larger than the
thickness of the bridge 124 of the subframe assembly 124. The
bridge 124 of the subframe assembly 104 can be placed in a valley
132 defined between the flange 130 and the bridge 114 of the frame
assembly 102. In a presently preferred configuration, the bridge
124 is supported by the flange 130. In other configurations, the
flange 130 can be omitted or the bridge is not supported by the
flange 130. Using the flange 130 to support the bridge 124
increases the structural integrity and facilitates the fitting of
the subframe assembly 104 to the frame assembly 102.
[0087] With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, an outer portion of the
illustrated subframe assembly 104 comprises lugs 134 that extend
laterally outward from the brow bars 122. The lugs 134 are sized
and configured to abut upon bosses 136 defined on the frame
assembly 102. The bosses 136 can be integrally formed with the
frame assembly 102 or, as in the illustrated arrangement, can be
separate components that are secured to the frame assembly. In the
illustrated arrangement, the bosses 136 advantageously are
positioned behind the projections 118 such that the bosses 136 are
generally concealed as are the lugs 134 when the lugs 134 abut the
bosses 136. Moreover, in the illustrated arrangement, the bosses
136 support the lugs 134 such that the frame assembly 102 supports
the outer portions of the subframe assembly 104. In some
arrangements, the bosses 136 can be positioned above or to one side
of the lugs 134 and interlocking configurations can be used to
connect the two components.
[0088] With continued reference to FIG. 5, the illustrated lugs 134
comprise a lower lip 140. The lower lip 140 preferably is sized and
configured to abut a surface of the respective boss 136. That is,
the lower lip 140 helps secure the lug 134 to the boss 136. To
further secure the lug 134 and the boss 136 together, the eyewear
100 comprises interconnecting components. More particularly, in the
illustrated arrangement, the eyewear 100 comprises a magnetic
interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more
particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed by each lug and boss
combination and comprises a first magnetic member 142 and a second
magnetic member 144. In some configurations, one of the magnetic
members 142, 144 may be slightly recessed and the other of the
magnetic members 142, 144 may extend into the recess to define a
mechanical interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock.
Other suitable configurations also can be used. Also, the magnetic
members 142, 144 can have any desired orientation relative to each
other. In other words, while the illustrated arrangement features
the first magnetic member 142 being positioned above the second
magnetic member 144, other arrangements can place the first
magnetic member 142 to any side of the second magnetic member 144
or can place the first magnetic member 142 below the second
magnetic member 144.
[0089] In use, the illustrated frame assembly 102 generally defines
the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 110, the
bridge 114 and the temples 112. In some arrangements, such as the
illustrated arrangement, the frame assembly 102 also comprises nose
pads. To provide the lenses, a user slips the subframe assembly 104
behind the frame assembly 102 with the bridge 124 of the subframe
assembly 104 slipping into the valley 132 while the lugs 134 are
brought into abutment with the bosses 136. In such a position, the
lugs 134 and the bridge 124 of the subframe assembly are generally
concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses 120 that are
positioned in the subframe assembly 104 appear to be part of the
frame assembly 102. Nonetheless, when the user desires, the lenses
120 and the subframe assembly 104 can be lifted from behind the
frame assembly 102 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe
assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 102 or the lenses 120
and the subframe assembly 104 can be placed in an alternative frame
assembly.
[0090] With reference now to FIGS. 7-13, another arrangement of
eyewear 200 generally comprises a frame assembly 202 and a lens
subframe assembly 204 (see, for example, FIG. 8). The lens subframe
assembly 204 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 202
rearward of the frame assembly 202 such that at least a portion,
and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe assembly 204 will
be positioned between the frame assembly 202 and the head of a
wearer.
[0091] The frame assembly 202 preferably comprises a brow bar 210,
a pair of temples 212 (see FIG. 9) and a bridge 214. The brow bar
210 and the temples 212 can be connected in any suitable manner. In
the arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, corresponding hinges
216 connect the temples 212 to the brow bar 210. More particularly,
projections 218 extend from the brow bar 210 and the hinges 216
connect the brow bar 210 to the projections 218. Other suitable
configurations can be used.
[0092] The bridge 214 extends in a region generally corresponding
to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated
arrangement, the brow bar 210 is formed in two portions that are
connected by the bridge 214. Other suitable configurations can be
used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least
a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge
214. The above described components of the frame assembly 202 may
be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
For instance, the temples 212 can be omitted where other technology
or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the
proximity of the user's eyes and the hinges 216 can be omitted in
some configurations.
[0093] With reference now to FIG. 8, the lens subframe assembly 204
in the arrangement of FIGS. 7-13 comprises a pair of lenses 220. A
brow bar 222 and a bridge 224 combine in the illustrated
arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe
assembly 204. Preferably, the brow bar 222 and the bridge 224 have
a smaller profile in front view such that the brow bar 222 and the
bridge 224 of the subframe assembly 204 can be substantially
concealed by the brow bar 210 and the bridge 214 of the frame
assembly 202, as shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 7.
[0094] The subframe assembly 204 preferably is of the rimless or
semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of
alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame
assembly while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly 204
to be masked. In the arrangement of FIGS. 7-13, the subframe
assembly 204 comprises a lower nylon cord 226 that secures the
lenses 220 to the brow bar 222. Other manners of securing the
lenses 220 within or to the subframe assembly 204 can be used. For
instance, in some arrangements, the lenses 220 can be secured with
clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling
frames, eyewires or the like.
[0095] As described above, the subframe assembly 204 advantageously
mounts to the frame assembly 202 in a manner that provides an
appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of
removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated
arrangement, the subframe assembly 204 mounts behind the frame
assembly 202 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the
frame assembly 202 such that the mounting structures are generally
obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 202 from
the front.
[0096] With reference to FIG. 10, the bridge 224 of the subframe
assembly 204 is positioned behind the bridge 214 of the frame
assembly 202. A protrusion 230 extends rearward from the bridge 214
of the frame assembly 202. In some arrangements, more than one
protrusion 230 can extend rearward from the bridge 214. The
protrusion 230 can have any suitable configuration. Desirably, the
protrusion 230 is configured to have a vertical dimension that is
the same as or less than a vertical dimension of the bridge 214 of
the frame assembly 202.
[0097] The protrusion 230 in the illustrated arrangement comprises
a shelf-like structure with a lip 231 that extends slightly upward
at a rear portion of the protrusion 230. Accordingly, the
protrusion 230 can be said to define a hook. The lip 231 of the
protrusion 230 is offset from the rear of the bridge 214 a distance
that is slightly larger than the thickness of the bridge 224 of the
subframe assembly 224. The bridge 224 of the subframe assembly 204
can be placed in a valley 232 defined between the lip 231 and the
bridge 214 of the frame assembly 202. In a presently preferred
configuration, the bridge 224 is supported by the protrusion
230.
[0098] With continued reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the bridge 224
of the illustrated subframe assembly 204 comprises interlocking
components. While the lip 231 defines one type of interlocking
component, the illustrated arrangement also features a magnetic
interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more
particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed by placing a
magnetic member in at least one of the bridge 214 and the
protrusion 230. In some configurations, such as the illustrated
configuration, at least one first magnetic member 242 is placed in
the bridge 214 and at least one second magnetic member 244 is
placed in the protrusion 230. In some configurations, one of the
magnetic members 242, 244 may be slightly recessed and the other of
the magnetic members 242, 244 may extend into the recess to define
a mechanical interlock in addition to defining a magnetic
interlock. Other suitable configurations also can be used. For
instance, the bridge 224 can be connected to a bottom surface or
side surface of the protrusion 230 or the bridge 214 in some
configurations and the magnetic interlock can be suitably disposed
for such a connection.
[0099] In use, the illustrated frame assembly 202 generally defines
the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 210, the
bridge 214 and the temples 212. To provide the lenses, a user slips
the subframe assembly 204 behind the frame assembly 202 with the
bridge 224 of the subframe assembly 204 slipping into the valley
232. In such a position, the bridge 224 of the subframe assembly is
generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses
220 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 204 appear to be
part of the frame assembly 202. Nonetheless, when the user desires,
the lenses 220 and the subframe assembly 204 can be lifted from
behind the frame assembly 202 and an alternative set of lenses and
subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 202 or the
lenses 220 and the subframe assembly 204 can be placed in an
alternative frame assembly.
[0100] With reference now to FIGS. 14-21, another configuration of
eyewear 300 arranged and configured in accordance with certain
features, aspects and advantages of the present invention is
illustrated. As illustrated, this arrangement comprises a frame
assembly 302 and a subframe assembly 304 connectable together in a
manner that combines portions of the arrangements shown in and
described with reference to FIGS. 1-6 and FIGS. 7-13.
[0101] As illustrated, a bridge 324 of the subframe assembly 304 is
constructed to be mounted to a protrusion 330 that extends from a
bridge 314 of the frame assembly 302. Thus, this interconnection
between the frame assembly 302 and the subframe assembly 304 can be
substantially as that described with respect to the eyewear 200 of
FIGS. 7-13.
[0102] Moreover, as illustrated, the subframe assembly comprises
lugs 334 and the frame assembly comprises bosses 336. These
components can be substantially as that described with respect to
the eyewear 100 of FIGS. 1-6.
[0103] Because these components have been described above, further
is deemed unnecessary and duplicative. Where desired or
appropriate, any of the variations described above also can be used
with the embodiment of FIGS. 14-21.
[0104] With reference now to FIGS. 22-26, another arrangement of
eyewear 400 generally comprises a frame assembly 402 and a lens
subframe assembly 404 (see, for example, FIG. 23). The lens
subframe assembly 404 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly
402 rearward of the frame assembly 402 such that at least a
portion, and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe assembly
404 will be positioned between the frame assembly 402 and the head
of a wearer.
[0105] The frame assembly 402 preferably comprises a brow bar 410,
a pair of temples 412 (see FIG. 24) and a bridge 414. The brow bar
410 and the temples 412 can be connected in any suitable manner. In
the arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 24, corresponding
hinges 416 connect the temples 412 to the brow bar 410. More
particularly, projections 418 extend from the brow bar 410 and the
hinges 416 connect the brow bar 410 to the projections 418. Other
suitable configurations can be used.
[0106] The bridge 414 extends in a region generally corresponding
to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated
arrangement, the brow bar 410 is formed in two portions that are
connected by the bridge 414. Other suitable configurations can be
used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least
a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge
414. The above described components of the frame assembly 402 may
be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
For instance, the temples 412 can be omitted where other technology
or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the
proximity of the user's eyes and the hinges 416 can be omitted in
some configurations.
[0107] With reference now to FIG. 2, the lens subframe assembly 404
in the arrangement of FIGS. 22-26 comprises a pair of lenses 420. A
brow bar 422 and a bridge 424 combine in the illustrated
arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe
assembly 404. Preferably, the brow bar 422 and the bridge 424 have
a smaller profile in front view than the brow bar 410 and bridge
414 of the frame assembly 402 such that the brow bar 422 and the
bridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 can be substantially
concealed by the brow bar 410 and the bridge 414 of the frame
assembly 402, as shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 22.
[0108] The subframe assembly 404 preferably is of the rimless or
semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of
alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame
assembly 402 while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly
404 to be masked. In the arrangement of FIGS. 22-26, the subframe
assembly 404 comprises a lower nylon cord 426 that secures the
lenses 420 to the brow bar 422. Other manners of securing the
lenses 420 within or to the subframe assembly 404 can be used. For
instance, in some arrangements, the lenses 420 can be secured with
clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling
frames, eyewires or the like.
[0109] As described above, the subframe assembly 404 advantageously
mounts to the frame assembly 402 in a manner that provides an
appearance of integrated eyewear rather than removably connected
lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated arrangement, the
subframe assembly 404 mounts behind the frame assembly 402 and the
mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 402
such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the
sight of one viewing the frame assembly 402 from the front.
[0110] With reference to FIG. 25, the bridge 424 of the subframe
assembly 404 is positioned behind the bridge 414 of the frame
assembly 402. A flange 430 extends rearward from the bridge 414 of
the frame assembly 402. The flange 430 can have any suitable
configuration and can be configured to cooperate with the bridge
424 as described above with respect to the eyewear 100 of FIGS. 1-6
and the eyewear 200 of FIGS. 7-13.
[0111] With reference to FIGS. 22 and 26, an outer portion of the
subframe assembly 404 comprises lugs 434 that extend laterally
outward from the brow bars 422. The lugs 434 are sized and
configured to abut upon bosses 436 defined on the frame assembly
102. The bosses 436 can be integrally formed with the frame
assembly 402 or, as in the illustrated arrangement, can be separate
components that are secured to the frame assembly and project
rearwardly therefrom. In the illustrated arrangement, the bosses
436 advantageously are positioned behind the projections 418 such
that the bosses 436 are generally concealed as are the lugs 434
when the lugs 434 abut the bosses 436. The lugs 434 can be
positioned in any desired orientation relative to the bosses 436
and interlocking configurations can be used to connect the two
components.
[0112] In the illustrated arrangement, the bosses 436 generally
comprise magnetic members that are positioned in the projections
418 and the bosses comprise interconnecting components together
with the lugs 434. More particularly, in the illustrated
arrangement, the eyewear 100 comprises a magnetic interlock
comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly,
the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination
and comprises a first magnetic member 442 and a second magnetic
member 444. In some configurations, one of the magnetic members
442, 444 may be slightly recessed and the other of the magnetic
members 442, 444 may extend into the recess to define a mechanical
interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock. Other
suitable configurations also can be used.
[0113] In use, the illustrated frame assembly 402 generally defines
the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 410, the
bridge 414 and the temples 412. To provide the lenses 420, a user
slips the subframe assembly 404 behind the frame assembly 402 with
the bridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 slipping into the
valley defined by the flange 430 while the lugs 434 are brought
into abutment with the bosses 436. In such a position, the lugs 434
and the bridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 are generally
concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses 420 that are
positioned in the subframe assembly 404 appear to be part of the
frame assembly 402. Nonetheless, when the user desires, the lenses
420 and the subframe assembly 404 can be lifted from behind the
frame assembly 402 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe
assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 402 or the lenses 420
and the subframe assembly 404 can be placed in an alternative frame
assembly.
[0114] With reference now to FIGS. 27-32B, another arrangement of
eyewear 500 generally comprises a frame assembly 502 and a lens
subframe assembly 504 (see, for example, FIG. 28). The lens
subframe assembly 504 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly
502 rearward of the frame assembly 502 such that at least a
portion, and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe assembly
504 will be positioned between the frame assembly 502 and the face
of a wearer.
[0115] The frame assembly 502 preferably comprises a brow bar 510,
a pair of temples 512 (see FIG. 29) and a bridge 514. The brow bar
510 and the temples 512 can be connected in any suitable manner. In
the arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30, corresponding
hinges 516 connect the temples 512 to the brow bar 510. More
particularly, projections 518 extend from the brow bar 510 and the
hinges 516 connect the brow bar 510 to the projections 518. Other
suitable configurations can be used.
[0116] The bridge 514 extends in a region generally corresponding
to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated
arrangement, the brow bar 510 is formed in two portions that are
connected by the bridge 514. Other suitable configurations can be
used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least
a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge
514. The above described components of the frame assembly 502 may
be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
For instance, the temples 512 can be omitted where other technology
or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the
proximity of the user's eyes and the hinges 516 can be omitted in
some configurations.
[0117] With reference now to FIG. 28, the lens subframe assembly
504 in the arrangement of FIGS. 27-32B comprises a pair of lenses
520. A brow bar 522 and a bridge 524 combine in the illustrated
arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe
assembly 504. Preferably, the brow bar 522 and the bridge 524 have
a smaller profile in front view than the brow bar 510 and the
bridge 514 of the frame assembly 502 such that the brow bar 522 and
the bridge 524 of the subframe assembly 504 can be substantially
concealed by the brow bar 510 and the bridge 514 of the frame
assembly 502, as shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 27.
[0118] The subframe assembly 504 preferably is of the rimless or
semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of
alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame
assembly while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly 504
to be masked. In the arrangement of FIGS. 27-32B, the subframe
assembly 504 comprises a lower nylon cord 526 that secures the
lenses 520 to the brow bar 522. Other manners of securing the
lenses 520 within or to the subframe assembly 504 can be used. For
instance, in some arrangements, the lenses 520 can be secured with
clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling
frames, eyewires or the like.
[0119] As described above, the subframe assembly 504 advantageously
mounts to the frame assembly 502 in a manner that provides an
appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of
removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated
arrangement, the subframe assembly 504 mounts behind the frame
assembly 502 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the
frame assembly 502 such that the mounting structures are generally
obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 502 from
the front.
[0120] With reference to FIG. 10, the bridge 524 of the subframe
assembly 504 is positioned behind the bridge 514 of the frame
assembly 502. In the illustrated arrangement, the bridge 524 of the
subframe assembly 504 is not directly supported by any structure
associated with the frame assembly 502. In other arrangements, the
bridge 524 may be supported.
[0121] With reference to FIGS. 31, 32A and 32B, the subframe
assembly 504 generally comprises a locking tab 560 that extends
forward from the subframe assembly 504. The illustrated tab 560
comprises an N-shaped configuration but can comprise any suitable
configuration in other arrangements, including a V-shape or a
W-shape configuration. The tab 560 also comprises a clip portion
562 that is defined between a main body 564 and a finger hold 566
of the tab.
[0122] The frame assembly 502 preferably comprises a receptacle
570. The receptacle 570 defines an aperture 572 sized and
configured to accept at least a portion of the tab 560. The
illustrated aperture 572 is generally square or rectangular with a
slot 573 defined along one side. As illustrated in FIG. 32B, the
slot 573 receives the clip portion 562 of the tab 560 when the tab
560 is fully positioned within the receptacle 570. In other words,
a shoulder that is defined at approximately the clip portion 562 is
captured within the receptacle while the clip portion 562 is
positioned in the slot 573 of the aperture 572 with the finger hold
566 protruding from the receptacle 570.
[0123] Thus, in the illustrated arrangement, the tab 560 and the
receptacle 570 define a mechanical interlock. The tab 560 can be
positioned on either one of the frame assembly 502 and the subframe
assembly 504 while the receptacle 570 is positioned on the other.
Positioning the tab 560 on the subframe assembly 504, however,
allows easier removal of the subframe assembly 504 from the frame
assembly 502.
[0124] In use, the illustrated frame assembly 502 generally defines
the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 510, the
bridge 514 and the temples 512. To provide the lenses, a user slips
the subframe assembly 504 behind the frame assembly 502 with the
tab 560 being inserted into the receptacle 570 of the frame
assembly 502. In such a position, the bridge 524 of the subframe
assembly 504 is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear
and the lenses 520 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 504
appear to be part of the frame assembly 502. Nonetheless, when the
user desires, the lenses 520 and the subframe assembly 504 can be
removed from behind the frame assembly 502 and an alternative set
of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly
502 or the lenses 520 and the subframe assembly 504 can be placed
in an alternative frame assembly.
[0125] With reference now to FIGS. 33-38, another configuration of
eyewear 600 arranged and configured in accordance with certain
features, aspects and advantages of the present invention is
illustrated. As illustrated, this arrangement comprises a frame
assembly 602 and a subframe assembly 604 connectable together in a
manner similar to that shown in FIGS. 27-32B. The portions that are
the same as the arrangements described above will not be described
in this embodiment.
[0126] As illustrated, a tab 660 and a receptacle 670 provide a
mechanical interlock. The tab 660 differs from the tab 560
described above in that the tab 660 comprises a bulge 662 that is
received within the receptacle 670 to lock the tab 660 into the
receptacle. As such, the receptacle can have a generally square or
rectangular aperture 672 without the need for a slot such as that
shown in FIG. 31. The bulge 662 can be pushed into the receptacle
670 through the aperture 672. To remove the tab 660 from the
receptacle, a finger hold 666 can be depressed which results in
movement of the bulge into a position that allows the tab 660 to be
withdrawn from the receptacle 670.
[0127] With reference now to FIGS. 39-48, another arrangement of
eyewear 700 generally comprises a frame assembly 702 and a pair of
lens subframe assemblies 704 (see FIG. 44). Each of the lens
subframe assemblies 704 preferably is mountable to the frame
assembly 702 rearward of the frame assembly 702 such that at least
a portion, and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe
assembly 704 will be positioned between the frame assembly 702 and
the eye of a wearer.
[0128] The frame assembly 702 preferably comprises a brow bar 710,
a pair of temples 712 (see FIG. 40) and a bridge 714. The brow bar
710 and the temples 712 can be connected in any suitable manner. In
the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 40, corresponding hinges 716
connect the temples 712 to the brow bar 710. More particularly,
projections 718 extend from the brow bar 710 and the hinges 716
connect the brow bar 710 to the projections 718. Other suitable
configurations can be used.
[0129] The bridge 714 extends in a region generally corresponding
to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated
arrangement, the brow bar 710 is formed in two portions that are
connected by the bridge 714. Other suitable configurations can be
used including but not limited to a brow bar that forms at least a
portion, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge 714.
The above described components of the frame assembly 702 may be
omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
For instance, the temples 712 can be omitted where other technology
or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the
proximity of the user's eyes and the hinges 716 can be omitted in
some configurations.
[0130] With reference now to FIGS. 41A-42B, each of the lenses 720
is secured to the frame assembly 702 with a separate lens subframe
assembly 704. Thus, the lens subframes do not comprise a bridge in
this arrangement. The lens subframe assembly 704 comprises a
version of a brow bar 722 to which the lens 720 is secured. The
brow bar 722 desirably has a smaller profile in front view than the
brow bar 710 of the frame assembly 702 such that the brow bar 722
of the subframe assembly 704 can be substantially concealed by the
brow bar 710 of the frame assembly 702, as shown by the hidden
lines in FIG. 39.
[0131] The subframe assemblies 704 preferably are of the rimless or
semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of
alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame
assembly while allowing the presence of the subframe assemblies 704
to be masked. In the one configuration, the subframe assembly 704
comprises a lower nylon cord 726 that secures the lenses 720 to the
brow bar 722 of the subframe assembly 704. Other manners of
securing the lenses 720 within or to the subframe assembly 704 can
be used. For instance, in some arrangements, the lenses 720 can be
secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners,
encircling frames, eyewires or the like.
[0132] As described above, the subframe assembly 704 advantageously
mounts to the frame assembly 702 in a manner that provides an
appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of
removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated
arrangement, the subframe assembly 704 mounts behind the frame
assembly 702 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the
frame assembly 702 such that the mounting structures are generally
obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 702 from
the front.
[0133] With reference to FIG. 39, the illustrated subframe
assemblies 704 are secured to the frame assembly 702 at in two
locations. In one arrangement, such as the illustrated arrangement,
the subframe assemblies 704 are secured at both lateral ends of the
subframe assemblies 704. In a presently preferred configuration,
one end of the subframe assembly 704 is secured by a mechanical
interlock while the other end is secured by a magnetic
interlock.
[0134] With reference now to FIGS. 41A-42B, one form of the
mechanical interlock between the subframe assembly 704 and the
frame assembly 702 will be described. As illustrated, the frame
assembly comprises an oblong post 780. The oblong post 780 extends
rearward from the frame assembly 702 and preferably has a major
diameter that extends generally vertically and a minor diameter
that extends generally laterally. Other shapes and configurations
of the post can be used and the post can be placed on the subframe
assembly 704 in some configurations. Moreover, in one preferred
arrangement, an enlarged head 781 (shown in dashed lines in FIGS.
41A and 41B) is provided on the post 780 such that a major portion
of the post 780 has a smaller cross-section than the head. In some
particularly advantageous embodiments, the post comprises a
magnetic member.
[0135] The subframe assembly 704 preferably comprises a slot 782
that is defined within an ear 784. In some particularly
advantageous embodiments, the ear 784 comprises a magnetic member
that can be magnetically secure to the post 780. A portion of the
slot 782 preferably is oblong such that the post 780 can be
inserted and the lens rotated into a locked position. As with the
post, other configurations can be used and the slot can be disposed
on the frame assembly 702 in some configurations. As shown in FIG.
41A, the slot 782 can slid onto the post 780 and the subframe
assembly 704 can be rotated to lock the subframe assembly 704 to
the frame assembly 702, as shown in FIG. 41B.
[0136] With reference to FIGS. 39, 40 and 48, lugs 734 can be an
outer portion of the illustrated subframe assembly 704 comprises
lugs 734 that extend laterally outward from the brow bars 722. The
lugs 734 are sized and configured to abut upon bosses 736 defined
on the frame assembly 702. The bosses 736 can be integrally formed
with the frame assembly 702 or can be separate components that are
secured to the frame assembly 702. In the illustrated arrangement,
the bosses 736 advantageously are positioned behind the projections
718 such that the bosses 736 are generally concealed as are the
lugs 734 when the lugs 734 abut the bosses 736.
[0137] In the illustrated arrangement, the bosses 736 generally
comprise magnetic members that are positioned in the projections
718 and the bosses 736 comprise interconnecting components together
with the lugs 734. More particularly, in the illustrated
arrangement, the eyewear 700 comprises a magnetic interlock
comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly,
the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination
and comprises a first magnetic member 742 and a second magnetic
member 744. In some configurations, one of the magnetic members
742, 744 may be slightly recessed and the other of the magnetic
members 742, 744 may extend into the recess to define a mechanical
interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock. Other
suitable configurations also can be used. Moreover, the post 780
and the ear 784 can be interchanged in location with the boss 736
and the lug 734 in some applications.
[0138] With reference to FIGS. 41A and 47, a post 790 of the nose
piece 792 can comprise a reduced portion 794. The reduced portion
794 can accommodate a portion of either the lens 720 or the
subframe assembly 704 such that the reduced portion 794 can serve
to locate the lens 720 relative to the frame assembly 702 and
provide another member that helps lock the subframe assembly 704 in
position.
[0139] In use, the illustrated frame assembly 702 generally defines
the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 710, the
bridge 714 and the temples 712. To provide the lenses, a user slips
the subframe assembly 704 behind the frame assembly 702 and slips
the post 780 into the slot 782 of the ear 784. The subframe
assembly 704 is then rotated about 90 degrees and the lug 734 is
brought into engagement with the boss 736 such that the subframe
assembly 704 is supported in a generally locked position relative
to the frame assembly 702. The other lens 720 can be installed to
the frame assembly 702 in the same manner. In such a position, the
subframe assembly 704 is generally concealed from the front of the
eyewear and the lenses 720 that are positioned in the subframe
assembly 704 appear to be part of the frame assembly 702.
Nonetheless, when the user desires, the lenses 720 and the subframe
assemblies 704 can be removed from behind the frame assembly 702
and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assemblies can be
placed in the frame assembly 702 or the lenses 720 and the subframe
assemblies 704 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly.
[0140] With reference now to FIGS. 49-52, an eyewear assembly 800
is shown. The eyewear assembly 800 features a frame assembly 802 to
which a subframe assembly 804 can be mounted. Because of the
similarity to the arrangements described above, many of the base
components of the frame assembly 802 and the subframe assembly 804
will not be described in further detail. Rather, reference may be
had to the descriptions set forth above for such components. For
instance, the frame assembly 802 is very similar to the frame
assembly 702 described with reference to FIGS. 39-48.
[0141] A primary difference between the prior embodiment and the
embodiment of FIGS. 49-50 is the use of a single subframe assembly
804. The subframe assembly 804 comprises a bridge 824 that connects
a pair of brow bars 822. The bridge 824 in the illustrated
arrangement comprises a pair of slots 882 that can receive a
corresponding pair of posts 870. The posts can be configured in any
suitable manner, including the manners set forth in the embodiment
above. The slots 882 and the posts 870 define a mechanical
interlock between the frame assembly 802 and the subframe assembly
804.
[0142] As with the arrangement described directly above, a magnetic
interlock also is provided. Any suitable construction can be used
and, in the illustrated arrangement, the magnetic interlock is the
same as the arrangement in the embodiment described directly above.
Accordingly, a pair of lugs 834 is positioned on an outer portion
of the illustrated subframe assembly 804. The lugs 834 are sized
and configured to abut upon bosses 836 defined on the frame
assembly 802. The bosses 836 can be integrally formed with the
frame assembly 802 or can be separate components that are secured
to the frame assembly 802. In the illustrated arrangement, the
bosses 836 advantageously are positioned behind projections 818
such that the bosses 836 are generally concealed as are the lugs
834 when the lugs 834 abut the bosses 836.
[0143] In the illustrated arrangement, the bosses 836 generally
comprise magnetic members that are positioned in the projections
818 and the bosses 836 comprise interconnecting components together
with the lugs 834. More particularly, in the illustrated
arrangement, the eyewear 800 comprises a magnetic interlock
comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly,
the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination
and comprises a first magnetic member 842 and a second magnetic
member 844. In some configurations, one of the magnetic members
842, 844 may be slightly recessed and the other of the magnetic
members 842, 844 may extend into the recess to define a mechanical
interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock. Other
suitable configurations also can be used. Moreover, the posts 880
and slots 884 can be interchanged in location with the boss 836 and
the lug 834 in some applications.
[0144] In use, the illustrated frame assembly 802 generally defines
the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 810, the
bridge 814 and the temples 812. To provide the lenses 820, a user
slips the subframe assembly 804 behind the frame assembly 802 with
the slots 884 being slid onto the posts 880 of the frame assembly
502. In such a position, the bridge 824 of the subframe assembly
804 is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and the
lenses 820 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 804 appear
to be part of the frame assembly 802. Nonetheless, when the user
desires, the lenses 820 and the subframe assembly 804 can be
removed from behind the frame assembly 802 and an alternative set
of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly
802 or the lenses 820 and the subframe assembly 804 can be placed
in an alternative frame assembly.
[0145] Although the present invention has been disclosed in the
context of certain preferred embodiments, examples and variations,
it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present
invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to
other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and
obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a
number of variations of the invention have been shown and described
in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this
invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art
based upon this disclosure. For instance, the exterior shape and
dimensions of the frame assemblies, subframe assemblies, mechanical
interlocks and magnetic interlocks can be any suitable shape or
configuration, including the use of curved or straight surfaces in
the place of straight or curved surfaces. In addition, the
connections preferably are made with the lens assembly resting on a
surface of the frame assembly. In some embodiments, however, the
lens assembly can be positioned such that the frame assembly rests
on a portion of the lens assembly. It is also contemplated that
various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features
and aspects of any of the many embodiments may be made and still
fall within the scope of the invention. It should be understood
that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can
be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form
varying modes of the disclosed invention. Moreover, some variations
that have been described with respect to one embodiment and not
another embodiment can be used with such other embodiments. For
instance, the subframe assembly can be supported in one, two or
more locations on the frame assembly. Many variations have been
described herein and cross-application is intended where physically
possible. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present
invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular
disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined
only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
* * * * *