U.S. patent application number 11/992674 was filed with the patent office on 2010-07-01 for apparatus for enhancing absorption and dissipation of impact forces for sweatbands.
Invention is credited to Carl J Abraham.
Application Number | 20100162472 11/992674 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37906436 |
Filed Date | 2010-07-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100162472 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Abraham; Carl J |
July 1, 2010 |
Apparatus for Enhancing Absorption and Dissipation of Impact Forces
for Sweatbands
Abstract
A sweatband designed to be worn on a user for usage in a variety
of sporting activities. The sweatband comprises inserts for the
purpose of protecting the user, which may be permanently placed or
removable. In the preferred mode, the inserts are polymeric and
function to absorb and dissipate impact forces with which the user
comes in contact. Importantly, the inserts may he strategically
placed within the sweatband, such as in the areas most vulnerable
to concussion or injury upon impact. In an alternate embodiment,
the polymeric inserts may he removed from the sweatband. In total,
the invention provides a novel, lightweight means to protect the
athlete, while effectively functioning to absorb perspiration.
Inventors: |
Abraham; Carl J; (Great
Neck, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Carl J Abraham
3 Baker Hill Road
Great Neck
NY
11023
US
|
Family ID: |
37906436 |
Appl. No.: |
11/992674 |
Filed: |
September 26, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
September 26, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US05/34267 |
371 Date: |
March 27, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/411 ; 2/16;
2/170; 2/181; 2/22 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/09 20130101;
A63B 2102/22 20151001; A42B 3/10 20130101; A41D 20/00 20130101;
A63B 2243/0025 20130101; A63B 2102/14 20151001; A63B 71/10
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/411 ; 2/170;
2/181; 2/16; 2/22 |
International
Class: |
A42B 3/04 20060101
A42B003/04; A41D 20/00 20060101 A41D020/00; A41D 13/08 20060101
A41D013/08; A41D 13/05 20060101 A41D013/05 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for enhancing absorption and dissipation of forces
for sweatbands comprising: a soft, pliable sweatband of a generally
annular configuration, the sweatband comprising an exterior portion
and interior portion, at least one insert placed within the
sweatband, the insert relatively thin in nature and positioned to
protect the intended area of a user, the apparatus functioning to
absorb perspiration and absorb and dissipate impact forces, with
only remaining forces distributed to the user.
2. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the insert is
permanently placed within the sweatband.
3. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the insert is
removably placed within the sweatband.
4. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the sweatband
comprises an exterior portion and interior portion and is designed
to be placed around the head of a user, from the forehead to back
of the head, at least one insert placed within the sweatband, the
insert positioned to protect the forehead area of a user, and a
soft, pliable vertical sweatband affixed to the horizontal
sweatband, the vertical sweatband comprising an exterior portion
and interior portion and designed to extend from the user's
forehead over the crown of the head, and to the back of the head,
at least one insert placed within the sweatband, the insert
positioned to protect at least one additional area of the head.
5. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the sweatband is
designed to be fitted and placed around a lower leg area of a user,
at least one insert placed within the sweatband, the insert
positioned to protect a shin of a user.
6. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the sweatband is
designed to be fitted and placed around a knee of a user, at least
one insert placed within the sweatband, the insert positioned to
protect a knee of a user.
7. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the sweatband is
designed to be fitted and placed around an arm of a user, at least
one insert placed within the sweatband, the insert positioned to
protect the wrist and forearm area of a user.
8. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the sweatband is
designed to be fitted and placed around an upper leg area of a
user, at least one insert placed within the sweatband, the insert
positioned to protect at least a hamstring area of a user.
9. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the insert is a
soft, pliable padding material with consistent memory.
10. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the insert is a
semi-rigid polymeric material.
11. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the polymeric
material is selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, a
combination of polymers, and a combination of co-polymers.
12. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the insert
comprises apertures which function to allow air to pass
therethrough.
13. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein an aperture is
located upon an interior surface of the sweatband.
14. The improved protective apparatus as described in claim 1,
wherein an aperture is located upon an exterior surface of the
sweatband.
15. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein ends of the
sweatband are attached to one another by means selected from the
group consisting of hook and loop fasteners, Velcro.RTM., snaps,
and at least one button.
16. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein ends of the
sweatband are permanently affixed to one another and the sweatband
is slid over an area intended to be protected.
17. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the apparatus is
utilized in activities selected from the group consisting of
football, hockey, baseball, softball, lacrosse, skiing, horseback
riding, climbing, skateboarding, roller skating, cycling,
motorcycling, automobile racing, and snowmobiling.
18. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the inserts are
manufactured in a variety of previously determined sizes,
functioning to render the inserts effective for multiple previously
determined sporting events.
19. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the insert can
be removed and washed.
20. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the sweatband
may be washed with the insert permanently in place.
21. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the insert is
curved in configuration, and is of a length in the range of three
to eight inches.
22. The apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the sweatband is
reversible, functioning to allow the interior portion to dry while
the exterior portion is placed against the user.
23. An apparatus for enhancing absorption and dissipation of forces
for sweatbands used in connection with helmets comprising: a soft,
pliable horizontal sweatband of a generally annular configuration,
the sweatband comprising an exterior portion and interior portion
and designed to be placed around the head of a user, from the
forehead to back of the head, at least one insert placed within the
sweatband, the insert relatively thin in nature and positioned to
protect the forehead area of a user, and a soft, pliable vertical
sweatband affixed to the horizontal sweatband, the vertical
sweatband comprising an exterior portion and interior portion and
designed to extend from the user's forehead over the crown of the
head, and to the back of the head, at least one insert placed
within the sweatband through at least one aperture on the
sweatband, the insert relatively thin in nature and positioned to
protect at least one additional area of the head, the apparatus
functioning to absorb perspiration and absorb and dissipate impact
forces, with only remaining forces distributed to the user.
24. The improved protective apparatus as described in claim 23,
wherein the insert is permanently placed within the sweatband.
25. The improved protective apparatus as described in claim 23,
wherein the insert is removably placed within the sweatband.
26. An apparatus for enhancing absorption and dissipation of forces
for sweatbands used in connection with helmets comprising: a soft,
pliable horizontal sweatband of a generally annular configuration,
the sweatband comprising an exterior portion and interior portion
and designed to be placed around the head of a user, from the
forehead to back of the head, at least one insert placed within the
sweatband, the insert relatively thin in nature and positioned to
protect the forehead area of a user, a soft, pliable first vertical
sweatband affixed to the horizontal sweatband, the vertical
sweatband comprising an exterior portion and interior portion and
designed to extend from the user's forehead over the crown of the
head, and to the back of the head, at least one insert placed
within the sweatband through at least one aperture on the
sweatband, the insert relatively thin in nature and positioned to
protect at least one additional area of the head, a soft, pliable
second vertical sweatband affixed to the horizontal sweatband, the
vertical sweatband comprising an exterior portion and interior
portion and designed to extend from a first side of the user's head
over the crown of the head, and to a second side of the user's
head, at least one insert placed within the sweatband through at
least one aperture on the sweatband, the insert relatively thin in
nature and positioned to protect at least one additional area of
the head, the apparatus functioning to absorb and dissipate impact
forces, with only remaining forces distributed to the user.
27. The improved protective apparatus as described in claim 26,
wherein the insert is permanently placed within the sweatband.
28. The improved protective apparatus as described in claim 26,
wherein the insert is removably placed within the sweatband.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is a sweatband for usage in sporting
activities that is designed to absorb both perspiration and impact
forces. The sweatband may be worn on the head of a user, including
under a pre-existing helmet, and may also be worn on the lower
legs, upper legs, wrists and forearms.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
[0002] Numerous innovations for protective devices have been
provided in the prior art that are described as follows. Even
though these innovations may be suitable for the specific
individual purposes to which they address, they differ from the
present invention as hereinafter contrasted. The following is a
summary of those prior art patents most relevant to the invention
at hand, as well a description outlining the differences between
the features of the present invention and those of the prior
art.
1. U.S. Pat. No. 6,000,062, Invented by Trakh, Entitled "Protective
Headband For Soccer Players"
[0003] The patent to Trakh describes improved head protection for
soccer players comprising a headband formed of resilient material
which may be worn alone or inside a conventional soccer helmet to
cushion the effects of impacts to the head, especially for children
in their formative years.
2. U.S. Pat. No. 4,613,993, Invented by Steele et al., Entitled
"Protective Head Gear With Tubular Rings"
[0004] The Steele et al. invention describes protective head gear
comprising a plurality of concentric tubular rings formed of soft,
yieldable material. The rings which are filled with non-flamable,
light, yieldable material, are gradually reduced diametrically and
joined by flexible ribbons. A chin strap and a rear support strap
detachably maintain the rings on the head of the user.
3. U.S. Pat. No. 5,930,841, Invented by Lampe et al., Entitled
"Soccer Headquard"
[0005] The Lampe et al. invention relates to an improved headguard
for athletes and in particular soccer players. In accordance with
one embodiment of the invention, a headguard is provided which
includes a headcover and an adjustable head strap disposed on a
perimeter of the head for drawing sections of the headcover
together. The headcover includes padding having at least a front
portion and a top portion and also includes a flexing section. The
flexing section of the headcover is positioned such that, when the
head strap is adjusted, at least a portion of the headcover flexes
at the flexing section to generally conform to at least a portion
of the head of a wearer.
4. U.S. Pat. No. 6,349,416, Invented by Lampe et al., Entitled
"Headguard-Protective Sports Headband"
[0006] The patent to Lampe et al. describes a protective headguard
to be worn by an athlete having a protective central pad, a rear
pad, an adjustable strap system interconnecting the rear pad and
the central pad, and one or more of a lack of any protective
padding which would cover the side of the athlete's head when the
headguard is worn, a channel defined by the central pad extending
substantially horizontally above the athlete's brow ridges and
below the athlete's frontal bone when the headguard is worn, a slot
in the rear pad extending substantially vertically from the
athlete's occipital bone and accommodating passage of a ponytail
when the headguard is worn, a single unitary liner, bands
encircling the central pad and releasably securing a liner to the
central pad, a removable sleeve, a spine pad extending from the
front panel to the rear pad perceptible lines of demarcation on the
exterior surface of the central pad.
5. U.S. Pat. No. 6,247,181, Invented by Hirsch et al., Entitled
"Bandana-Head Protector Using Fabric And Closed Cell Foam"
[0007] The Hirsch et al. invention provides a device designed to
reduce head injuries among soccer players, and others who would not
otherwise wear head protection. It integrates closed-cell foam
padding into a traditional bandana form. Foam padding is sewn
between layers of fabric in positions which will provide a degree
of protection from rotational forces and from direct blows to the
forehead, sides, and top of the head.
6. U.S. Pat. No. 4,896,378, Invented by Campana, Entitled
"Protective Wrist Band"
[0008] The patent to Campana describes a protective wrist band
having a composite body adapted to extend around a wearer's wrist
and having complementary connector means on opposite ends for
releasably holding the band around the wrist. The wrist band body
has an inner layer of a porous, absorbent, fabric material and a
thicker shock-absorbing outer layer of a resilient,
fluid-impervious, rubber-like closed cell material.
7. U.S. Pat. No. 5,329,638, Invented by Hansen et al., Entitled
"Protective Wristband"
[0009] The patent Hansen et al. describes a protective wristband
with integrally woven inner and outer layers of an absorbent
stretchable material to provide an endless hollow interior, and a
cushioned shield disposed between the layers such that the shield
is concealed to provide the appearance of a conventional,
unprotective wristband.
8. U.S. Pat. No. 5,175,887, Invented by Kim, Entitled "Absorbent
Headband"
[0010] In the patent to Kim, an absorbent headband is provided
which includes a resilient inner frame and one or more absorbent
outer covers. The outer cover is generally tubular, and closed at
each end. The outer cover is provided with a slot for removably
inserting the inner frame member into the interior of the outer
cover. A method is provided for absorbing perspiration which
includes the steps of providing a resilient inner member which is
generally u-shaped, providing a tubular outer cover, inserting the
inner member into the outer cover, and placing the headband on the
head of the wearer.
9. U.S. Pat. No. 4,947,488, Invented by Ashinoff, Entitled
"Forehead Guard"
[0011] The Ashinoff invention describes a forehead guard consisting
of a closed loop of a terrycloth or similar stretch material tube
and an unattached semi-circular plastic shock-absorbing member
within the tube adapted to assume a forehead position on the user
while the terrycloth tube is stretched about the back of the user's
head to complete the positioning thereof.
[0012] The sweatbands of the prior art generally illustrate wide
sweatbands without inserts, lightweight helmets with multiple open
areas, head protecting items in the style of bandanas, forehead
protective plates, and protective wrist bands.
[0013] In contrast, the present invention is a sweatband that
comprises foam or polymeric inserts which function to absorb and
dissipate impact forces.
[0014] In the embodiment worn on the head in conjunction with a
helmet, due to the presence of an additional layer beneath the
helmet, it takes additional time for impact forces to reach the
user's head, thus providing greater protection.
[0015] Moreover, the open spaces provided by the design allow for
an additional dimension of protection, as impact forces must travel
additional distances to reach the user. As such, the spreading of
forces allows the present invention to provide significantly
greater absorption and dissipation that the prior art.
[0016] Furthermore, the inserts aforementioned are placed within
the sweatband in areas most vulnerable to concussion or injury. In
one mode, the inserts may be removed so that both the inserts and
sweatband may be conveniently washed. The sweatbands may also be
washed with the inserts permanently in place. In total, the
invention provides a novel means to better protect the athlete,
while effectively functioning to absorb perspiration.
SUMMARY
[0017] The present invention is an improved, protective sweatband
designed to be worn on the head, upper legs, lower legs, or wrists
and forearms of a user
[0018] In the preferred mode, the invention is worn on the head of
a user engaged in activities such as soccer, now the most popular
team sport in the United States amongst both boys and girls. The
American Academy of Pediatrics classifies soccer as a
contact/collision sport and most contact sports use protective
headgear. Soccer is the only sport in the world that encourages
children to use their heads to hit the ball, yet no protective
headgear is worn.
[0019] The invention may also be used in conjunction with a
previously-existing helmet for optimal protection. This renders the
device suitable for usage in connection with a host of other
sporting activities, including football, hockey, lacrosse, cycling,
skateboarding, and many other applications.
[0020] In one mode of manufacture, the device of the present
invention comprises a "horizontal" sweatband portion, much like a
typical headband. It includes protective inserts of foam padding or
a semi-rigid material, within a generally tubular
perspiration-absorbing fabric. Ends of the tubular band are joined
with one another via means selected from the group consisting of
snaps, hook and loop fasteners, or buttons to effectively contain
the inert(s) and provide a secure fit for the user. Alternatively,
the ends of the band may be permanently affixed to one another by
being sewn together.
[0021] In an enhanced mode, the horizontal sweatband may be affixed
to a "vertical" portion, in a cross pattern configuration,
perpendicular to the horizontal portion. As such, the vertical
portion extends from the user's forehead, over the crown of the
head to the back of the head, also including apertures for
insertion of protective inserts to provide additional
protection.
[0022] In still another headband embodiment, a total of three such
bands are utilized for maximum coverage of critical areas of the
head. In any instance, the sweatband of the present invention
functions to effectively absorb perspiration in the traditional
sense, as well as provide an appropriate level of ventilation and
breathing, reducing heat in the process. The sweatband is also
expandable, much in the manner of a traditional headband.
[0023] When the sweatband is used beneath a helmet, it takes
additional time for impact forces to reach the user's head, thus
providing greater protection. Moreover, the open spaces provided by
the design allow for an additional dimension of protection, as
impact forces must travel additional distances to reach the user.
As such, the spreading of forces allows the present invention to
provide significantly greater absorption and dissipation that the
prior art.
[0024] In another embodiment, the sweatband is designed to be
placed around a lower leg area of a user, at least one insert is
placed within the sweatband, and the insert positioned to protect a
shin of a user. In this embodiment, the width of the sweatband may
be approximately as wide as the shin area. The overall
circumference may be reduced to fit snugly around the calf area to
protect the entire shin. In the preferred mode, hook and loop
fasteners or Velcro.RTM. can be used to adjust the fit as
desired.
[0025] Likewise, in an additional embodiment, the sweatband is
designed to be placed around an upper leg area of a user, at least
one insert is placed within the sweatband, and the insert
positioned to protect at least the hamstring area. In this
instance, the width of the band is increased to protect the
hamstring area. The overall circumference of the band may be
reduced so that the band fits snugly around the hamstring area. In
this embodiment, hook and loop fasteners or Velcro.RTM. may be used
to adjust the fit as desired.
[0026] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the sweatband is
designed to be placed around the knee of a user, at least one
insert is placed within the sweatband, and the insert positioned to
protect this critical area. In this instance, the width of the band
is increased to sufficiently protect the knee. The overall
circumference of the band may be reduced so that the band fits
snugly around the knee, and hook and loop fasteners or Velcro.RTM.
may be used to adjust the fit as desired.
[0027] Moreover, the sweatband may be designed to be placed around
an arm of a user, in which case at least one insert is placed
within the sweatband, and the insert positioned to protect the
wrist and forearm area. In this instance, the width of the band is
increased to protect the wrist and forearm area. The overall
circumference of the band may be reduced so that the band fits
snugly around the wrist and forearm area. As with the above-noted
embodiments, hook and loop fasteners or Velcro.RTM. may be used to
adjust the fit as desired.
[0028] In addition, the sweatband may comprise removable polymeric
inserts for the purpose of protecting the user. This provides the
user with the option of utilizing only the sweatband portion
beneath the helmet, if desired. As noted, the inserts are either
foam-like or polymeric, functioning to absorb and dissipate impact
forces with which the user comes in contact. General studies have
shown that properly placed foam padding may reduce impact forces by
better than thirty (30) percent.
[0029] Regarding the specific impact absorption performance
characteristics of the sweatbands of the present invention,
following is a summary of the results of preliminary pilot
testing.
[0030] The independent measure of interest was peak G (i.e. impact
deceleration). The dependent variable of impact velocity and energy
were held constant at 1.9 m/s and 9.2 J, respectively. An ISO
headform (size L.about.medium adult) with triaxial accelerometer
(Kistler) mounted at the approximate center of mass was dropped by
means of a bi-rail basket guide (similar to CEN 960 for ice hockey)
from a height of 30 cm (see FIG. 1)
[0031] Ten initial tests were conducted without any sweatbands
mounted to provide baseline measures. Three impacts per sample were
conducted with approximately 30 seconds between impacts.
[0032] The initial ten impacts without sweatbands produced peak G
values of 652.4 G's. With the sweatbands of the present invention
introduced, impact absorption (i.e. the ratio between no sweatband
versus with sweatband) demonstrated values up to 83% (average of
three impacts). Such illustrates the benefits of usage of the
present invention as compared to all prior art.
[0033] Importantly, the inserts of the resent invention may be of a
variety of widths, and may be strategically placed within the
sweatband, such as in the areas most vulnerable to concussion or
injury upon impact. As such, a three to five inch curved section of
padding material is located in the forehead area in the preferred
mode of manufacture.
[0034] The concussion rate reported in soccer is reported to be the
same as in tackle football. Thus, precise placement of the
appropriate forehead protective insert is significant in several
respects. Precise placement of the appropriate forehead protective
insert is significant in reducing the incidence of concussion and
other injury, and is particularly important with regard to children
who may be inexperienced in playing the sport in question,
rendering more susceptible to collisions. Such necessitates usage
of the present invention, which provides a lightweight and
non-burdensome means to absorb and dissipate a substantial portion
of the impact forces associated with collisions.
[0035] Young children dashing around a playing field can bash their
heads together, get kicked in the head, experience player-to-player
contact, have their heads hit the ground, come in contact with a
goal post, or inadvertently get hit in the forehead area with the
ball.
[0036] The Consumer Product Safety Commission has recently raised
awareness regarding the risk of concussion from head injuries.
Moreover, the risk of sustaining a concussion is especially high
for children. Accordingly, the frontal forehead and temporal area
must be protected better than any other area. Although it may not
prevent it, the present invention reduces the incidence of
concussion.
[0037] Second concussions are particularly damaging when players
have yet to fully recover from first concussions. It should also be
noted that many children engage in physical play in which elbows
commonly strike the head in the forehead area. Frequently, children
do not fully recover from such concussions. The present invention
also serves to mitigate the incidence of cuts and bruises
associated with such collisions.
[0038] With regard to the enhanced embodiments of the present
invention, the crown of the head may be protected by a relatively
small protective insert, such as a curved two inch piece of foam or
semi-rigid polymer.
[0039] Regarding the practicality of the invention, the polymeric
inserts may be removed from the sweatband so that both the
sweatband and inserts may be conveniently washed. The sweatband may
also be washed with the inserts in place, if desired. Moreover, the
invention uniquely acts as a two-sided sweatband. When one side is
wet, the reverse side can then be used, allowing the wet side to
dry. Thus, in total, the invention provides a novel means to
further protect the head of the athlete, while effectively
functioning to absorb perspiration.
[0040] Moreover, the present invention may be manufactured in a
variety of sizes, so as to render the benefits of same available to
athletes of all ages.
[0041] Likewise, in order to render the sweatband effective for
usage in a variety of applications, both the insert and sweatband
itself may be of a variety of widths, tailored to the portion of
the head intended to be protected by same. A varying quantity of
foam or semi-rigid inserts may also be utilized, depending upon the
sport for which the sweatband is intended to be used.
[0042] In summation, in light of the foregoing, it is an object of
the present invention to provide protective sweatbands that are
used by players of many sports, including children.
[0043] It is a further object of the invention to provide
protective sweatbands that are lightweight, cool and comfortable to
wear and use, and relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
[0044] It is an additional object of the invention to provide
protective sweatbands that provides significantly greater
absorption and dissipation of impact forces due to the presence of
an additional layer of protection, and due to the open spaces in
the design.
[0045] It is another object of the invention to provide sweatbands
that are manufactured in a variety of previously determined
sizes.
[0046] Finally, another object of the invention is to provide
sweatbands with protective inserts that may be permanently placed
therein or removed.
[0047] The novel features which are considered characteristic for
the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention
itself, however, both as to its construction and its method of
operation, together with additional objects and advantages thereof,
will be best understood from the following description of the
embodiments when read and understood in connection with
accompanying drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0048] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the sweatband of the
present invention, indicating general size and configuration of the
foam or polymeric protective insert therefor.
[0049] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an alternate
embodiment of the sweatband of the present invention, illustrating
both horizontal and vertical sweatband members, and indicating
general size and configuration of the foam or polymeric protective
inserts therefor.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0050] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the sweatband of the
present invention, indicating general size and configuration of the
foam or polymeric protective insert therefor. Specifically,
sweatband (12) is manufactured of soft and pliable fabric or
materials, much like traditional sweatbands and headbands. The
sweatband (12) comprises an exterior portion (12A) and interior
portion (12B).
[0051] Insert (16) is placed within the sweatband (12). Such may be
permanently placed, or, alternatively, may be removable. In such
instance, the insert may be placed in the sweatband through at
least one aperture, which may be located either upon the exterior
surface of the band (12A) for convenience and easy access, or,
alternatively may be located upon the interior surface (12B) to
maintain an aesthetically-pleasing appearance. In the preferred
mode, insert (16) is relatively thin in nature, and may be in the
form of foam padding or a semi-rigid, pliable polymer.
[0052] In the preferred head-worn mode, the device is a
"horizontal" sweatband portion, much like a typical headband. This
provides a protective device that is of a familiar shape to the
user, and is easy to both put on and remove. Furthermore, the
device keeps the user cool during play, while providing
significantly more protection in the critical area of the forehead
than achieved through usage of conventional sweatbands.
[0053] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an alternate
embodiment of the sweatband of the present invention, illustrating
both horizontal and vertical sweatband members, and indicating
general size and configuration of the foam or polymeric protective
inserts therefor. Once again, sweatband (12) comprises an exterior
portion (12A) and interior portion (12B). Again, insert (16) may be
permanently placed, or may be placed within the sweatband (12)
through at least one aperture, which may be located either upon the
exterior surface of the band for convenience and easy access, or,
alternatively may be located upon the interior surface to maintain
an aesthetically-pleasing appearance.
[0054] In the enhanced mode, the horizontal member is affixed to a
"vertical" portion that is perpendicular to the horizontal portion,
extending from the user's forehead, over the crown of the head, and
to the back of the head. This provides additional protection to the
user, as the insert located at the crown of the head also functions
to effective absorb and dissipate impact forces in the event
inadvertent contact is made with another player, ball or
object.
[0055] In a further enhanced mode, the horizontal member is affixed
to a "vertical" portion that is perpendicular to the horizontal
portion, extending from the user's forehead, over the crown of the
head, and to the back of the head, and is also affixed to a second
vertical portion that crosses the first vertical portion, extending
from a first side, over the crown of the head, and to a second side
of the head. This provides still more protection to the user, as
the additional band functions to effectively absorb and dissipate
even more impact forces in the event contact is made with another
player, ball or object.
[0056] Importantly, the open spaces provided by the design allow
for an additional dimension of protection, as impact forces must
travel additional distances to reach the user. As such, the
spreading of forces allows the present invention to provide
significantly greater absorption and dissipation that the prior
art.
[0057] In any instance, the sweatband of the present invention
comprises inserts for the purpose of protecting the user. In the
preferred mode, the inserts are polymeric and function to absorb
and dissipate impact forces with which the user comes in contact.
Importantly, the inserts may be strategically placed within the
sweatband, such as in the areas most vulnerable to concussion or
injury upon impact. In one mode, the polymeric inserts may be
removed from the sweatband so that the sweatband may be
conveniently washed. In total, the invention provides an enhanced
means to protect the athlete, while effectively functioning to
absorb perspiration.
[0058] In relation to any embodiment, the insert may be
manufactured of a polyethylene or semi-rigid material,
polyurethane, or a combination of polymeric materials that have
memory. The thickness of the insert may vary according to need, but
in all instances, the insert functions to significantly improve the
absorption and dissipation of primary forces to better protect the
user.
[0059] In all such cases, the sweatbands may be manufactured in a
variety of previously-determined sizes, functioning to render same
effective for multiple persons.
[0060] With regards to all descriptions and graphics, while the
invention has been illustrated and described as embodied, it is not
intended to be limited to the details shown, since it will be
understood that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and
changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in
its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without
departing in any way from the spirit of the invention.
[0061] Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal
the gist of the present invention that others can readily adapt it
for various applications without omitting features that, from the
standpoint of prior art, constitute essential characteristics of
the generic or specific aspects of this invention. What is claimed
as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent is set forth
in the appended claims.
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