U.S. patent application number 16/434279 was filed with the patent office on 2020-12-10 for adjustment mechanism and headband arrangement for flexible helmet headband.
The applicant listed for this patent is MSA Technology, LLC. Invention is credited to Kevin R. Ketterer, Matt C. Miller.
Application Number | 20200383416 16/434279 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004153685 |
Filed Date | 2020-12-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200383416 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Miller; Matt C. ; et
al. |
December 10, 2020 |
Adjustment Mechanism and Headband Arrangement for Flexible Helmet
Headband
Abstract
An adjustment mechanism and headband arrangement are disclosed
herein, the adjustment mechanism including an elongated cord
configured for extending around a perimeter of the headband
arrangement; and a locking member receiving a portion of the
elongated cord and configured to interact with the elongated cord
between a locked state, preventing movement of the elongated cord
relative to the locking member, and an unlocked state, permitting
movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking member,
wherein the locking member comprises at least one tooth configured
to engage the portion of the elongated cord received in the locking
member in the locked state, and wherein the portion of the
elongated cord is configured to disengage from the at least one
tooth in the unlocked state in response to at least one of the
first end and the second end being pulled in the direction of the
major longitudinal axis.
Inventors: |
Miller; Matt C.;
(Pittsburgh, PA) ; Ketterer; Kevin R.;
(Portersville, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MSA Technology, LLC |
Cranberry Township |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004153685 |
Appl. No.: |
16/434279 |
Filed: |
June 7, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A42B 3/145 20130101;
A42B 7/00 20130101; A42B 3/324 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A42B 3/14 20060101
A42B003/14; A42B 3/32 20060101 A42B003/32; A42B 7/00 20060101
A42B007/00 |
Claims
1. An adjustment mechanism for a headband arrangement, the
adjustment mechanism comprising: an elongated cord having a first
end, a second end, and a length therebetween extending in a
direction of a major longitudinal axis, the elongated cord
configured for extending around a perimeter of the headband
arrangement; and a locking member receiving a portion of the length
of the elongated cord, the locking member configured to interact
with the elongated cord between a locked state, preventing movement
of the elongated cord relative to the locking member, and an
unlocked state, permitting movement of the elongated cord relative
to the locking member, wherein the locking member comprises at
least one tooth configured to engage the portion of the length of
the elongated cord received in the locking member in the locked
state, and wherein the portion of the length of the elongated cord
is configured to disengage from the at least one tooth in the
unlocked state in response to at least one of the first end and the
second end being pulled in the direction of the major longitudinal
axis.
2. The adjustment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the elongated cord
is made from a tensile material having a resting diameter when the
elongated cord is at rest and a biased diameter when at least one
of the first end and the second end is pulled, wherein the biased
diameter is smaller than the resting diameter.
3. The adjustment mechanism of claim 2, wherein, in the unlocked
state, the locking member is configured to allow free traversal of
the elongated cord relative to the locking member at the biased
diameter, and wherein, in the locked state, the locking member is
configured to engage the elongated cord at the resting
diameter.
4. The adjustment mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a lug
having an opening configured to receive the elongated cord, the lug
configured to prevent removal of the elongated cord from the
locking member.
5. The adjustment mechanism of claim 4, further comprising a
retention member configured to receive a portion of the length of
the elongated cord that is not guided around a perimeter of the
headband arrangement.
6. The adjustment mechanism of claim 5, wherein the first end and
second end of the elongated cord are connected and further
configured to be received by the retention member.
7. The adjustment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the at least one
tooth is configured to move in a longitudinal direction in which at
least one of the first end and the second end is pulled, thereby
allowing free traversal of the elongated cord relative to the
locking member.
8. The adjustment mechanism of claim 1, further comprising at least
one channel configured to guide a portion of the elongated cord
around a perimeter of the headband arrangement.
9. The adjustment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the locking member
further comprises a moveable element configured move the at least
one tooth between a first position, wherein the at least one tooth
contacts the elongated cord, thereby preventing movement of the
elongated cord relative to the locking member, and a second
position, wherein the at least one tooth does not contact the
elongated cord, thereby permitting free traversal of the elongated
cord relative to the locking member.
10. The adjustment mechanism of claim 9, wherein the locking member
further comprises an elastically deformable member configured to
bias the moveable element in the first position.
11. The adjustment mechanism of claim 10, wherein the elastically
deformable member is disposed within a wedge shaped cavity of the
locking member and arranged between the at least one tooth and
either an inner wall of the wedge shaped cavity or the moveable
element.
12. A headband arrangement of a safety helmet, the headband
arrangement comprising: a headband element comprising a perimeter
configured to be lengthened or shortened by an adjustment mechanism
comprising: an elongated cord having a first end, a second end, and
a length therebetween extending in a direction of a major
longitudinal axis, the elongated cord configured to extend around
the perimeter of the headband element; at least one channel
configured to guide a portion of the elongated cord around the
perimeter of the headband arrangement; and a locking member
receiving a portion of the length of the elongated cord, the
locking member configured to interact with the elongated cord
between a locked state, preventing movement of the elongated cord
relative to the locking member, and an unlocked state, permitting
movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking member,
wherein the locking member comprises at least one tooth configured
to engage the portion of the length of the elongated cord received
in the locking member in the locked state, and wherein the portion
of the length of the elongated cord is configured to disengage from
the at least one tooth in the unlocked state in response to at
least one of the first end and the second end being pulled in the
direction of the major longitudinal axis.
13. The headband arrangement mechanism of claim 12, wherein the
elongated cord is made from a tensile material having a resting
diameter when the elongated cord is at rest and a biased diameter
when at least one of the first end and the second end is pulled,
wherein the biased diameter is smaller than the resting
diameter.
14. The headband arrangement of claim 13, wherein, in the unlocked
state, the locking member is configured to allow free traversal of
the elongated cord relative to the locking member at the biased
diameter, and wherein, in the locked state, the locking member is
configured to engage the elongated cord at the resting
diameter.
15. The headband arrangement of claim 12, wherein the at least one
tooth is configured to move in a longitudinal direction in which at
least one of the first end and the second end is pulled, thereby
allowing free traversal of the elongated cord relative to the
locking member.
16. The headband arrangement of claim 12, wherein the locking
member further comprises a moveable element configured to move the
at least one tooth between a first position, wherein the at least
one tooth contacts the elongated cord, thereby preventing movement
of the elongated cord relative to the locking member in at least
one longitudinal direction, and a second position, wherein the at
least one tooth does not contact the elongated cord, thereby
permitting the free traversal of the elongated cord relative to the
locking member.
17. The headband arrangement of claim 16, wherein the locking
member further comprises an elastically deformable member
configured to bias the moveable element in the first position.
18. The headband arrangement of claim 17, wherein the elastically
deformable member is disposed within a wedge shaped cavity of the
locking member and arranged between the at least one tooth and
either an inner wall of the wedge shaped cavity or the compressible
button.
19. An adjustment mechanism for a headband arrangement of a safety
helmet, the adjustment mechanism comprising: an elongated cord
having a first end, a second end, and a length therebetween
extending in a direction of a major longitudinal axis, the
elongated cord configured for extending around a perimeter of the
headband arrangement; and a cylindrical locking member comprising
at least one tooth arranged circumferentially around an inner
surface of the locking member, a rotatable knob, at least one
spring arm, and a central post; wherein the first end of the
elongated cord is connected to the headband arrangement and the
second end of elongated cord is connected to the central post, the
central post configured to wind at least a portion of the elongated
cord; and wherein the locking member is configured to translate a
rotational force applied to the rotatable knob to the at least one
spring arm and the central post, the at least one tooth is
configured to allow a rotation of the at least one spring arm in a
first direction in response to a rotational force applied to the
rotatable knob, thereby enabling the second end of the elongated
cord to wind around the central post, and the at least one spring
member is configured to engage the at least one tooth in a second
direction, thereby preventing rotation of the central post and
engaging the elongated cord in a locked position when no rotational
force is applied to the rotatable knob.
20. The adjustment mechanism of claim 19, wherein the elongated
cord is made from a tensile material having a resting diameter when
the elongated cord is at rest and a biased diameter when at least
one of the first end and the second end is pulled, wherein the
biased diameter is smaller than the resting diameter, wherein the
at least one spring arm is connected to a hub member, and the
locking member is further configured to translate a rotational
force applied to the rotatable knob to the hub member, and wherein
the at least one spring arm is cantilevered and is further
configured to disengage the at least one tooth when a rotational
force is applied to the rotatable knob in the direction of the
engagement.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
Field of the Disclosure
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to safety helmets
for use in a variety of applications where head protection is
desired, and in particular to an adjustment mechanism for an
adjustable headband used in connection with such a safety
helmet.
Description of the Related Art
[0002] As is known in the art, a variety of activities, workplace
functions, and emergency situations require certain safety measures
and equipment. Such activities, functions, and situations may
include, for example, industrial or manufacturing activities,
construction activities, rescue situations, and other instances
where protection of the user's head via a safety helmet is of the
utmost importance.
[0003] Safety helmets exist in a variety of shapes and
configurations. In order to comfortably position the protective
helmet body (or dome) of the safety helmet with respect to the
user's head, each safety helmet is equipped with a suspension
system. Existing suspension systems typically include: (1) a
headband arrangement having a headband member that fits around the
periphery of the user's head (normally just above the forehead
area) and an adjustment mechanism for tightening and loosening the
headband member with respect to a user's head; (2) multiple tabs,
connected or connectable to the headband member, which are
removably attachable in headband slots positioned on the inner
surface of the helmet body; and (3) multiple straps connected
between the tabs and extending across the headband member for
contact with the top of the user's head.
[0004] There are various drawbacks and deficiencies with existing
adjustment mechanisms. Many such existing mechanisms exhibit "slop"
or "play" in the adjustment process. These existing adjustment
mechanisms are often not effective in preventing inadvertent
loosening of the headband member, whether during the adjustment
process or while the safety helmet is worn. Other known headband
arrangements involve a notched track configuration wherein an
adjustment mechanism having a rotatable knob and a gear portion
causes the headband member to tighten or loosen by traversing the
track from one notch to another. Although such configurations
eliminate the "slop" or "play" prevalent in the previously
discussed "tab" and "slot" configuration, the user's ability to
adjust the headband is limited by the geometrical configuration of
the notched track and gear. Thus, existing adjustment mechanisms
lack the ability to prevent inadvertent loosening, while enabling
continuous (i.e., non-incremental) adjustability.
[0005] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for improved
adjustable headbands, and adjustment mechanisms for use with such
adjustable headbands.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0006] According to a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the
present disclosure, provided is an adjustment mechanism for a
headband arrangement, the adjustment mechanism including an
elongated cord having a first end, a second end, and a length
therebetween extending in a direction of a major longitudinal axis,
the elongated cord configured for extending around a perimeter of
the headband arrangement; and a locking member receiving a portion
of the length of the elongated cord, the locking member configured
to interact with the elongated cord between a locked state
preventing movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking
member and an unlocked state permitting movement of the elongated
cord relative to the locking member, wherein the locking member
comprises at least one tooth configured to engage the portion of
length of the elongated cord received in the locking member in the
locked state, and wherein the portion of the length of the
elongated cord is configured to disengage from the at least one
tooth in the unlocked state in response to at least one of the
first end and the second end being pulled in the direction of the
major longitudinal axis.
[0007] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the elongated cord is made from a tensile material
having a resting diameter when the elongated cord is at rest and a
biased diameter when at least one of the first end and the second
end is pulled, wherein the biased diameter is smaller than the
resting diameter.
[0008] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, in the unlocked state, the locking member is configured
to allow free traversal of the elongated cord relative to the
locking member at the biased diameter, and wherein, in the locked
state, the locking member is configured to engage the elongated
cord at the resting diameter.
[0009] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the adjustment mechanism further includes a lug having
an opening configured to receive the elongated cord, the lug
configured to prevent removal of the elongated cord from the
locking member.
[0010] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the adjustment mechanism further includes a retention
member configured to receive a portion of the length of the
elongated cord that is not guided around a perimeter of the shock
absorbing headband arrangement.
[0011] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the first end and second end of the elongated cord are
connected and further configured to be received by the retention
member.
[0012] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the at least one tooth is configured to move in a
longitudinal direction in which at least one of the first end and
the second end is pulled, thereby allowing the free traversal of
the elongated cord relative to the locking member.
[0013] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the adjustment mechanism further includes at least one
channel configured to guide a portion of the elongated cord around
a perimeter of the headband arrangement.
[0014] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the locking member further includes a moveable element
configured move the at least one tooth between a first position,
wherein the at least one tooth contacts the elongated cord, thereby
preventing movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking
member, and a second position, wherein the at least one tooth does
not contact the elongated cord, thereby permitting the free
traversal of the elongated cord relative to the locking member.
[0015] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the locking member further includes an elastically
deformable member configured to bias the moveable element in the
first position.
[0016] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the elastically deformable member is disposed within a
wedge shaped cavity of the locking member and arranged between the
at least one tooth and either an inner wall of the wedge shaped
cavity or the moveable element.
[0017] According to another non-limiting embodiment or aspect of
the present disclosure, provided is a headband arrangement of a
safety helmet, the adjustment mechanism including: a headband
element comprising a perimeter configured to be lengthened or
shortened by an adjustment mechanism including: an elongated cord
having a first end, a second end, and a length therebetween
extending in a direction of a major longitudinal axis, the
elongated cord configured to extend around the perimeter of the
headband element; at least one channel configured to guide a
portion of the elongated cord around the perimeter of the headband
arrangement; and a locking member receiving a portion of the length
of the elongated cord, the locking member configured to interact
with the elongated cord between a locked state preventing movement
of the elongated cord relative to the locking member and an
unlocked state permitting movement of the elongated cord relative
to the locking member, wherein the locking member comprises at
least one tooth configured to engage the portion of the length of
the elongated cord received in the locking member in the locked
state, and wherein the portion of the length of the elongated cord
is configured to disengage from the at least one tooth in the
unlocked state in response to at least one of the first end and the
second end being pulled in the direction of the major longitudinal
axis.
[0018] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the elongated cord is made from a tensile material
having a resting diameter when the elongated cord is at rest and a
biased diameter when at least one of the first end and the second
end is pulled, wherein the biased diameter is smaller than the
resting diameter.
[0019] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, in the unlocked state, the locking member is configured
to allow free traversal of the elongated cord relative to the
locking member at the biased diameter, and wherein, in the locked
state, the locking member is configured to engage the elongated
cord at the resting diameter.
[0020] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the at least one tooth is configured to move in a
longitudinal direction in which at least one of the first end and
the second end is pulled, thereby allowing the free traversal of
the elongated cord relative to the locking member.
[0021] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the locking member further includes a moveable element
configured to move the at least one tooth between a first position,
wherein the at least one tooth contacts the elongated cord, thereby
preventing movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking
member in at least one longitudinal direction, and a second
position, wherein the at least one tooth does not contact the
elongated cord, thereby permitting the free traversal of the
elongated cord relative to the locking member.
[0022] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the locking member further includes an elastically
deformable member configured to bias the compressible button in the
second position.
[0023] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the spring member is disposed within a wedge shaped
cavity of the locking member and arranged between the at least one
tooth and either an inner wall of the wedge shaped cavity or the
compressible button.
[0024] According to another non-limiting embodiment or aspect of
the present disclosure, provided is an adjustment mechanism for a
headband arrangement of a safety helmet, the adjustment mechanism
including: an elongated cord having a first end, a second end, and
a length therebetween extending in a direction of a major
longitudinal axis, the elongated cord configured for extending
around a perimeter of the headband arrangement; and a cylindrical
locking member comprising at least one tooth arranged
circumferentially around an inner surface of the locking member, a
rotatable knob, at least one spring arm, and a central post;
wherein the second end of the elongated cord is connected to the
headband arrangement and the first end of the elongated cord is
connected to the central post, the central post configured to wind
at least a portion of the elongated cord; and wherein the locking
member is configured to translate a rotational force applied to the
rotatable knob to the at least one spring arm and the central post,
the at least one tooth configured to allow a rotation of the at
least one spring arm in a first direction in response to a
rotational force applied to the rotatable knob, thereby enabling
the second end of the elongated cord to wind around the central
post, and the at least one spring member configured to engage the
at least one tooth in a second direction, thereby preventing
rotation of the central post and engaging the elongated cord in a
locked position when no rotational force is applied to the
rotatable knob.
[0025] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the elongated cord is made from a tensile material
having a resting diameter when the elongated cord is at rest and a
biased diameter when at least one of the first end and the second
end is pulled, wherein the biased diameter is smaller than the
resting diameter.
[0026] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the adjustment mechanism further includes a retention
member configured to receive a portion of the length of the
elongated cord that is not guided around a perimeter of the shock
absorbing headband arrangement.
[0027] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the at least one spring arm is connected to a hub
member, and the locking member is further configured to translate a
rotational force applied to the rotatable knob to the hub
member.
[0028] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the at least one spring arm is cantilevered and
configured to disengage the at least one tooth when a rotational
force is applied to the rotatable knob in the direction of the
engagement.
[0029] Further non-limiting examples or aspects will now be set
forth in the following numbered clauses.
[0030] Clause 1. An adjustment mechanism for a headband
arrangement, the adjustment mechanism comprising: an elongated cord
having a first end, a second end, and a length therebetween
extending in a direction of a major longitudinal axis, the
elongated cord configured for extending around a perimeter of the
headband arrangement; and a locking member receiving a portion of
the length of the elongated cord, the locking member configured to
interact with the elongated cord between a locked state, preventing
movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking member, and
an unlocked state, permitting movement of the elongated cord
relative to the locking member, wherein the locking member
comprises at least one tooth configured to engage the portion of
the length of the elongated cord received in the locking member in
the locked state, and wherein the portion of the length of the
elongated cord is configured to disengage from the at least one
tooth in the unlocked state in response to at least one of the
first end and the second end being pulled in the direction of the
major longitudinal axis.
[0031] Clause 2. The adjustment mechanism of clause 1, wherein the
elongated cord is made from a tensile material having a resting
diameter when the elongated cord is at rest and a biased diameter
when at least one of the first end and the second end is pulled,
wherein the biased diameter is smaller than the resting
diameter.
[0032] Clause 3. The adjustment mechanism of either clause 1 or 2,
wherein, in the unlocked state, the locking member is configured to
allow free traversal of the elongated cord relative to the locking
member at the biased diameter, and wherein, in the locked state,
the locking member is configured to engage the elongated cord at
the resting diameter.
[0033] Clause 4. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 1-3,
further comprising a lug having an opening configured to receive
the elongated cord, the lug configured to prevent removal of the
elongated cord from the locking member.
[0034] Clause 5. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 1-4,
further comprising a retention member configured to receive a
portion of the length of the elongated cord that is not guided
around a perimeter of a shock absorbing headband arrangement.
[0035] Clause 6. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 1-5,
wherein the first end and second end of the elongated cord are
connected and further configured to be received by a retention
member.
[0036] Clause 7. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 1-6,
wherein the at least one tooth is configured to move in a
longitudinal direction in which at least one of the first end and
the second end is pulled, thereby allowing the free traversal of
the elongated cord relative to the locking member.
[0037] Clause 8. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 1-7,
further comprising at least one channel configured to guide a
portion of the elongated cord around a perimeter of the headband
arrangement.
[0038] Clause 9. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 1-8,
wherein the locking member further comprises a moveable element
configured move the at least one tooth between a first position,
wherein the at least one tooth contacts the elongated cord, thereby
preventing movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking
member, and a second position, wherein the at least one tooth does
not contact the elongated cord, thereby permitting the free
traversal of the elongated cord relative to the locking member.
[0039] Clause 10. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 1-9,
wherein the locking member further comprises an elastically
deformable member configured to bias the moveable element in the
first position.
[0040] Clause 11. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 1-10,
wherein the elastically deformable member is disposed within a
wedge shaped cavity of the locking member and arranged between the
at least one tooth and either an inner wall of the wedge shaped
cavity or the moveable element.
[0041] Clause 12. A headband arrangement of a safety helmet, the
headband arrangement comprising: a headband element comprising a
perimeter configured to be lengthened or shortened by an adjustment
mechanism comprising: an elongated cord having a first end, a
second end, and a length therebetween extending in a direction of a
major longitudinal axis, the elongated cord configured to extend
around the perimeter of the headband element; at least one channel
configured to guide a portion of the elongated cord around the
perimeter of the headband arrangement; and a locking member
receiving a portion of the length of the elongated cord, the
locking member configured to interact with the elongated cord
between a locked state, preventing movement of the elongated cord
relative to the locking member, and an unlocked state, permitting
movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking member,
wherein the locking member comprises at least one tooth configured
to engage the portion of the length of the elongated cord received
in the locking member in the locked state, and wherein the portion
of the length of the elongated cord is configured to disengage from
the at least one tooth in the unlocked state in response to at
least one of the first end and the second end being pulled in the
direction of the major longitudinal axis.
[0042] Clause 13. The headband arrangement of clause 12, wherein
the elongated cord is made from a tensile material having a resting
diameter when the elongated cord is at rest and a biased diameter
when at least one of the first end and the second end is pulled,
wherein the biased diameter is smaller than the resting
diameter.
[0043] Clause 14. The headband arrangement of either clause 12 or
13, wherein, in the unlocked state, the locking member is
configured to allow free traversal of the elongated cord relative
to the locking member at the biased diameter, and wherein, in the
locked state, the locking member is configured to engage the
elongated cord at the resting diameter.
[0044] Clause 15. The headband arrangement of any of clauses 12-14,
wherein the at least one tooth is configured to move in a
longitudinal direction in which at least one of the first end and
the second end is pulled, thereby allowing the free traversal of
the elongated cord relative to the locking member.
[0045] Clause 16. The headband arrangement of any of clauses 12-15,
wherein the locking member further comprises a moveable element
configured move the at least one tooth between a first position,
wherein the at least one tooth contacts the elongated cord, thereby
preventing movement of the elongated cord relative to the locking
member in at least one longitudinal direction, and a second
position, wherein the at least one tooth does not contact the
elongated cord, thereby permitting the free traversal of the
elongated cord relative to the locking member.
[0046] Clause 17. The headband arrangement of any of clauses 12-16,
wherein the locking member further comprises an elastically
deformable member configured to bias the moveable element in the
second position.
[0047] Clause 18. The headband arrangement of any of clauses 12-17,
wherein the spring member is disposed within a wedge shaped cavity
of the locking member and arranged between the at least one tooth
and either an inner wall of the wedge shaped cavity or the
compressible button.
[0048] Clause 19. An adjustment mechanism for a headband
arrangement of a safety helmet, the adjustment mechanism
comprising: an elongated cord having a first end, a second end, and
a length therebetween extending in a direction of a major
longitudinal axis, the elongated cord configured for extending
around a perimeter of the headband arrangement; and a cylindrical
locking member comprising at least one tooth arranged
circumferentially around an inner surface of the locking member, a
rotatable knob, at least one spring arm, and a central post;
wherein the second end of the elongated cord is connected to the
headband arrangement and the first end of elongated cord is
connected to the central post, the central post configured to wind
at least a portion of the elongated cord; and wherein the locking
member is configured to translate a rotational force applied to the
rotatable knob to the at least one spring arm and the central post,
the at least one tooth configured to allow a rotation of the at
least one spring arm in a first direction in response to a
rotational force applied to the rotatable knob, thereby enabling
the second end of the elongated cord to wind around the central
post, and the at least one spring member configured to engage the
at least one tooth in a second direction, thereby preventing
rotation of the central post and engaging the elongated cord in a
locked position when no rotational force is applied to the
rotatable knob.
[0049] Clause 20. The adjustment mechanism of clause 19, wherein
the elongated cord is made from a tensile material having a resting
diameter when the elongated cord is at rest and a biased diameter
when at least one of the first end and the second end is pulled,
wherein the biased diameter is smaller than the resting
diameter.
[0050] Clause 21. The adjustment mechanism of either clause 19 or
20, further comprising a retention member configured to receive a
portion of the length of the elongated cord that is not guided
around a perimeter of the shock absorbing headband arrangement.
[0051] Clause 22. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 19-21,
wherein the at least one spring arm is connected to a hub member,
and the locking member is further configured to translate a
rotational force applied to the rotatable knob to the hub
member.
[0052] Clause 23. The adjustment mechanism of any of clauses 19-22,
wherein the at least one spring arm is cantilevered and configured
to disengage the at least one tooth when a rotational force is
applied to the rotatable knob in the direction of the
engagement.
[0053] These and other features and characteristics of the present
disclosure, as well as the methods of operation and functions of
the related elements of structures and the combination of parts and
economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon
consideration of the following description and the appended claims
with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a
part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals
designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be
expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the
purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended
as a definition of the limits of the disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustable helmet
headband having an adjustment mechanism and adjustable helmet
headband according to a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the
present disclosure;
[0055] FIG. 2 is a front view of the adjustment mechanism and
adjustable helmet headband of FIG. 1;
[0056] FIG. 3 is a sectioned view of an elongated cord according to
another non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the present
disclosure;
[0057] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an adjustable helmet
headband having an adjustment mechanism and adjustable helmet
headband according to another non-limiting embodiment or aspect of
the present disclosure;
[0058] FIG. 5 is a front view of the adjustment mechanism and
adjustable helmet headband of FIG. 4;
[0059] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an adjustable helmet
headband having an adjustment mechanism and adjustable helmet
headband according to another non-limiting embodiment or aspect of
the present disclosure; and
[0060] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the adjustment
mechanism and adjustable helmet headband of FIG. 6.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0061] As used herein, the singular form of "a", "an", and "the"
include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise.
[0062] Spatial or directional terms, such as "left", "right",
"inner", "outer", "above", "below", and the like, relate to the
embodiments shown in the figures and are not to be considered as
limiting as the invention can assume various alternative
orientations.
[0063] All numbers and ranges used in the specification and claims
are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term
"about". By "about" is meant plus or minus twenty-five percent of
the stated value, such as plus or minus ten percent of the stated
value. However, this should not be considered as limiting to any
analysis of the values under the doctrine of equivalents.
[0064] Unless otherwise indicated, all ranges or ratios disclosed
herein are to be understood to encompass the beginning and ending
values and any and all subranges or subratios subsumed therein. For
example, a stated range or ratio of "1 to 10" should be considered
to include any and all subranges or subratios between (and
inclusive of) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10;
that is, all subranges or subratios beginning with a minimum value
of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less. The
ranges and/or ratios disclosed herein represent the average values
over the specified range and/or ratio.
[0065] The terms "first", "second", and the like are not intended
to refer to any particular order or chronology, but refer to
different conditions, properties, or elements.
[0066] The term "at least" is synonymous with "greater than or
equal to".
[0067] The term "not greater than" is synonymous with "less than or
equal to".
[0068] As used herein, "at least one of" is synonymous with "one or
more of". For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C"
means any one of A, B, or C, or any combination of any two or more
of A, B, or C. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes
A alone; or B alone; or C alone; or A and B; or A and C; or B and
C; or all of A, B, and C.
[0069] The term "includes" is synonymous with "comprises".
[0070] As used herein, the terms "parallel" or "substantially
parallel" mean a relative angle as between two objects (if extended
to theoretical intersection), such as elongated objects and
including reference lines, that is from 0.degree. to 5.degree., or
from 0.degree. to 3.degree., or from 0.degree. to 2.degree., or
from 0.degree. to 1.degree., or from 0.degree. to 0.5.degree., or
from 0.degree. to 0.25.degree., or from 0.degree. to 0.1.degree.,
inclusive of the recited values.
[0071] As used herein, the terms "perpendicular" or "substantially
perpendicular" mean a relative angle as between two objects at
their real or theoretical intersection is from 85.degree. to
90.degree., or from 87.degree. to 90.degree., or from 88.degree. to
90.degree., or from 89.degree. to 90.degree., or from 89.5.degree.
to 90.degree., or from 89.75.degree. to 90.degree., or from
89.9.degree. to 90.degree., inclusive of the recited values.
[0072] The present disclosure is directed to an adjustable headband
arrangement 1 and an adjustment mechanism 2 that is used in
connection with or as part of a headband arrangement 1. A
non-limiting embodiment of the adjustment mechanism 2 is
illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, and further non-limiting embodiments
of the adjustment mechanism 2 and its various components are shown
in FIGS. 3-6. With reference to FIG. 1, the adjustment mechanism 2
according to the present disclosure is used in connection with or
in a headband arrangement 1, which includes a headband member 3
with at least elongated cord 4 positioned on, for example, an end
of the headband member 3. Further, this headband arrangement 1 is
normally part of or used in connection with a suspension system for
a safety helmet. In particular, and in order to allow the safety
helmet to be used by a variety of people having differently shaped
and sized heads, the headband member 1 must be adjustable. As
discussed above, and in order to facilitate such adjustment, most
headband arrangements 1 include some form of an adjustment
mechanism. However, and as discussed more fully hereinafter, the
adjustment mechanism 2 according to the present disclosure provides
certain unique advantages and benefits as compared to the existing
adjustment mechanisms and headband arrangements.
[0073] According to the non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the
present disclosure depicted in FIG. 1, the adjustment mechanism 2
includes an elongated cord 4 having a first end 5, a second end 6,
and a major longitudinal axis L extending therebetween. A length of
the elongated cord 4 extends between the first end 5 and second end
6 in a direction of the major longitudinal axis L, and is
configured around a perimeter of the headband member 3 through one
or more channels 7. Although FIG. 1 depicts a non-limiting
embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure with channels 7 that
are integrated mechanical components affixed to the headband member
3, the present disclosure contemplates embodiments wherein the
channels are separate from the headband member 3 itself, or
altogether absent from the headband member 3.
[0074] In the non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the headband
arrangement 1 of FIG. 1, a portion P of the length of the elongated
cord 4 is received by and traverses through a first and second
locking member 8 configured on either side of the adjustment
mechanism 2. Each locking member 8 is further configured to receive
a portion of the length of the elongated cord 4 and interact with
the elongated cord 4 between a locked state and an unlocked state.
The interaction between the elongated cord 4 and the locking member
8 is enabled by at least one tooth 9 configured on the locking
member 8 at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L such that
the elongated cord 4 may freely traverse through the locking member
8 when the first end 5 and/or second end 6 of the elongated cord 4
is pulled in the direction of the longitudinal axis L. In the
locked state, movement of the elongated cord 4 relative to the
locking member 8 is prevented. In the unlocked state, movement of
the elongated cord 4 relative to the locking member 8 is
permitted.
[0075] Although the non-limiting embodiment or aspect depicted in
FIG. 1 includes two locking members 8 disposed on different sides
of the adjustment mechanism 2 and configured to receive a portion
of the length of the elongated cord 4 at the first end 5 and second
6 of the elongated cord 4, alternate configurations are
contemplated by the present disclosure. For example, the first end
5 of the elongated cord 4 may traverse through a locking member 8,
while the second end 6 is fixedly attached to the headband member 3
in a preferred location. Alternatively, two elongated cords 4 can
be configured around the headband member 3, such that a second end
6 of each elongated cord 4 is fixedly attached to the headband
member 3, while the first end 5 traverses through a locking member
8.
[0076] Still referring to FIG. 1, the adjustment mechanism 2
further includes a retention member 11 configured to receive a
portion of the length of the elongated cord that is not guided
around the perimeter of the shock absorbing headband arrangement.
In the non-limiting embodiment or aspect depicted in FIG. 1, either
the first end 5 or second end 6 of the elongated cord 4 can be
received and retained by retention member 11 to remove it from
interfering or bothering the user. The retention member might be
configured to receive the first end 5 of the elongated cord 4, the
second end 6 of the elongated cord 4, or any combination thereof.
Alternatively, the first end 5 of the elongated cord 4 is either
connected to, or seamlessly integrated with, the second end 6 of
the elongated cord 4, and the resulting length of the elongated
cord 4 disposed between the first end 5 and second end 6 can be
retained by retention member 11.
[0077] Referring now to FIG. 2, the adjustment mechanism 2 and
headband arrangement 1 according to the non-limiting embodiment or
aspect of FIG. 1 are depicted in a front view. A portion P of the
length of the elongated cord 4 is clearly depicted as traversing
through the locking member 8 along its longitudinal axis L. The
first end 5 and second end 6 of the elongated cord 4 are shown to
extend beyond the locking member 8 configuration, and are disposed
below the headband arrangement 1. The front view of FIG. 2 depicts
the engagement of the elongated cord 4 and at least one tooth 9 of
the locking member 8. Specifically, the interaction of the at least
one tooth 9 and elongated cord 4 is shown. In the non-limiting
embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure depicted in FIG. 2,
the at least one tooth 9 of the locking member 8 is angled towards
the first end 5 and second end 6 of the elongated cord 4. Thus,
when the elongated cord 4 is pulled in a direction of the
longitudinal axis L, the at least one tooth 9 is configured to
interact with the elongated cord 4 in the unlocked state due to its
angled configuration, thereby enabling movement of the elongated
cord 4 relative to the locking member 8. In other non-limiting
embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure, the at least one
tooth 9 is elastically deformable such that the at least one tooth
9 is configured to move when the elongated cord 4 is pulled in a
direction of the longitudinal axis L, thereby allowing the free
traversal of the elongated cord 4 relative to the locking member 8.
Other variations to the material and physical orientation of the at
least one tooth are contemplated by the present disclosure such
that the at least one tooth 9 will enable the movement of the
elongated cord 4 in an unlocked state.
[0078] In further reference to the non-limiting embodiment or
aspect depicted in FIG. 2, the adjustment mechanism 2 further
includes lugs 10 configured to prevent unintended removal of the
elongated cord 4 from the locking members 8. The lugs 10 may be
configured to tightly grip the elongated cord 4 such that a slack
is created throughout the length of the elongated cord 4 that
traverses through the locking members 8. Alternatively, the lugs 10
may be configured to loosely guide the elongated cord 4 through the
locking members 8. Although the adjustment mechanism 2 of FIG. 2
depicts four lugs 10 disposed on either side of the locking members
8, other non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the adjustment
mechanism 2 of the present disclosure include one or more lugs 10
configured according to preference. In further non-limiting
embodiments or aspects of the adjustment mechanism 2 contemplated
by the present disclosure, no lugs 10 are used and the elongated
cord 4 is configured to independently interact with the locking
member 8.
[0079] While wearing a helmet with a headband arrangement 1 and
adjustment mechanism 2 according to the non-limiting embodiment or
aspect of FIGS. 1 and 2, a user can adjust the fit of the headband
arrangement 1 by pulling at least one of the first end 5 and second
end 6 of the elongated cord 4 in the direction of the longitudinal
axis L. When pulled in the direction of the longitudinal axis L,
the elongated cord 4 interacts with the at least one tooth 9 in an
unlocked state, thus enabling movement of the elongated cord 4
relative to the locking member 8. In the unlocked state, the
elongated cord 4 can be pulled by the user through the locking
member 8 such that the length of the elongated cord 4 configured
around the perimeter of the headband member 3 either increases or
decreases, depending on the user's preferred fit. As the length of
the elongated cord 4 configured around the perimeter of the
headband member 3 increases, the headband member 3 is adjusted for
a looser fit around the user's head. As the length of the elongated
cord 4 configured around the perimeter of the headband member 3
decreases, the headband member 3 is adjusted for a tighter fit
around the user's head.
[0080] In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present
disclosure, the elongated cord 4 may be made from a tensile
material having a resting diameter when the elongated cord 4 is at
rest and a biased diameter when at least one of the first end 5 and
the second end 6 is pulled. In such an embodiment, the biased
diameter is smaller than the resting diameter. Thus, in the
unlocked state, the locking member 8 is configured to allow free
traversal of the elongated cord 4 relative to the locking member 8
at the biased diameter. In the locked state, the locking member 8
is configured to engage the elongated cord 4 at the resting
diameter. In this way, the at least one tooth 9 may be configured
without a specific angle and/or rigidity, but when the user pulls
the elongated cord 4 in a direction of the longitudinal axis L, the
resting diameter reduces to the biased diameter such that the
elongated cord 4 transitions from the locked state to the unlocked
state, enabling movement of the elongated cord 4 relative to the
locking member 8. Non-limiting examples of an elongated cord having
a resting diameter and biased diameter according to the present
disclosure include those made from rubber, or other forms of
elastic material, such as a bungee and/or the like. The present
disclosure further contemplates other non-limiting embodiments or
aspects of the adjustment mechanism 2 wherein various combinations
of the aforementioned configurations of the at least one tooth 9
and elongated cord 4 are used to facilitate a preferred movement of
the elongated cord 4 relative to the locking member 8.
[0081] An example of an elongated cord 4 having a resting diameter
D1 that reduces to a biased diameter D2 when the elongated cord 4
is pulled is depicted in a sectioned view according to FIG. 3.
Although the present disclosure uses the term "diameter" and the
elongated cord of FIG. 3 is depicted as having a circular
cross-section, other cross-sectional shapes are contemplated by the
present disclosure.
[0082] Referring now to FIG. 4, another non-limiting embodiment or
aspect of the adjustment mechanism 2 and headband arrangement 1 is
depicted in a perspective view. As in the non-limiting embodiment
or aspect depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, the adjustment mechanism 2 and
headband arrangement 1 of FIG. 4 includes an elongated cord 4
configured around a perimeter of the headband member 3 via several
channels 7. Although a portion of the length of the elongated cord
4 near the first end 5 is once again received by the locking member
8, the second end 6 of the elongated cord 4 is received by a
retention member 11 and is thereby affixed to the headband member
3. Additionally, according to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG.
4, the locking member 8 further includes a moveable element 12
configured to move the at least one tooth 9 shown in FIG. 5 from a
first position, wherein at least one tooth interacts with the
elongated cord 4 between a locked state, to a second position,
wherein the at least one tooth 9 interacts with the elongated cord
4 in an unlocked state. In the unlocked state, the elongated cord 4
may freely traverse through the locking member 8 when the first end
5 of the elongated cord is pulled in a direction of the
longitudinal axis L.
[0083] While wearing a helmet with a headband arrangement 1 and
adjustment mechanism 2 according to the non-limiting embodiment or
aspect of FIG. 4, a user can adjust the fit of the headband
arrangement 1 by pressing, or otherwise moving, the moveable
element 12 thereby moving at least one tooth from the locked state
to the unlocked state, and pulling the first end 5 of the elongated
cord 4 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L. Because the
second end 6 of the elongated cord 4 is affixed to the headband
member 3 by retention member 11, when the first end 5 is pulled in
the direction of the longitudinal axis L, the length of the
elongated cord 4 either increases or decreases, depending on the
user's preferred fit. As the length of the elongated cord 4
configured around a perimeter of the headband member 3 increases,
the headband member 3 is adjusted for a looser fit around the
user's head. As the length of the elongated cord 4 configured
around a perimeter of the headband member 3 decreases, the headband
member 3 is adjusted for a tighter fit around the user's head.
Although the moveable element 12 of the non-limiting embodiment or
aspect of FIG. 4 is depicted as a compressible button, other means
are contemplated by the present disclosure, including but not
limited to barrel cord locks, clamps, and/or the like.
[0084] Referring now to FIG. 5, a cross-section of the locking
member 8 of the adjustment mechanism 2 according to the
non-limiting embodiment or aspect of FIG. 4 is depicted in a front
view. FIG. 5 depicts an elastically deformable member 13 disposed
within a wedge shaped cavity 14 of the locking member and further
arranged between the at least one tooth 9 and an inner wall of
wedge shaped cavity 14. For example, the elastically deformable
member 13 may include a spring, a deformable piece of plastic,
foam, and/or other means for biasing the moveable element 12. The
elastically deformable member 13 may be alternatively arranged
between the at least one tooth 9 and the moveable element 12. The
elastically deformable member 13 is configured to bias the moveable
element 12 in the first position, wherein the at least one tooth 9
interacts with the elongated cord 4 in the locked state, such that
the elongated cord 4 cannot unintentionally disengage from the at
least one tooth 9, thereby altering the user's preferred fit of the
headband arrangement 1. However, if the user intends to alter the
fit of the headband arrangement 1, they may press, or otherwise
move, the moveable element 12 such that the at least one tooth 9
interacts with the elongated cord 4 in an unlocked state and the
elongated cord 4 may freely traverse through the locking member 8
when the first end 5 of the elongated cord is pulled in a direction
of the longitudinal axis L.
[0085] In further reference to the non-limiting embodiment or
aspect of FIG. 5, the adjustment mechanism 2 further includes a lug
10 configured to receive the elongated cord and prevent
unintentional removal of the elongated cord 4 from the locking
member 8. The lug 10 may be configured to tightly grip the
elongated cord 4 such that a slack is created throughout the length
of the elongated cord 4 that traverses through the locking members
8. Alternatively, the lugs 10 may be configured to loosely guide
the elongated cord through the locking members 8. Although the
adjustment mechanism 2 of FIG. 5 depicts one lug 10 disposed on one
side of the locking member 8, other non-limiting embodiments or
aspects of the adjustment mechanism 2 of the present disclosure may
include two or more lugs 10 configured according to preference. In
still further non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the adjustment
mechanism 2 contemplated by the present disclosure, no lugs 10 are
used and the elongated cord 4 is configured to independently
interact with the locking member 8.
[0086] Referring now to FIG. 6, a headband arrangement 1 with an
adjustment mechanism 2 is depicted in accordance with another
non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure in a
perspective view. As in the non-limiting embodiment or aspect
depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4, the adjustment mechanism 2 and headband
arrangement 1 of FIG. 6 includes an elongated cord 4 configured
around a perimeter of the headband member 3 via at least one
channel 7. A portion of the length of the elongated cord 4 near the
first end 5 is received by the locking member 8, which may be
configured as a cylinder, and the second end 6 of the elongated
cord 4 is received by a retention member 11 and is thereby affixed
to the headband member 3. According to the non-limiting embodiment
of FIG. 6, the locking member 8 further includes a rotatable knob
15 configured to rotate within the locking member 8 and translate a
rotational force applied to the rotatable knob 15 to the first end
5 of the elongated cord 4, via various internal components which
are further illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0087] Referring now to FIG. 7, the headband arrangement 1 and
adjustment mechanism 2 of FIG. 6 is depicted in an exploded view.
According to the non-limiting embodiment or aspect depicted in FIG.
7, the at least one tooth 9 is arranged circumferentially around an
inner surface of the cylindrical locking member 8. The first end 5
of the elongated cord 4 is configured to traverse through a channel
7 disposed on the adjustment mechanism 2 and into the locking
member 8, where it is affixed to a central post 18 disposed within
the locking member 8. A hub member 16 is also disposed within the
locking member 8, the hub member 16 including two spring arms 17
configured to engage the at least one tooth 9, which is arranged
circumferentially around an inner surface of the locking member 8.
The hub member 16 is further configured to engage a central post
18. Alternatively, other non-limiting embodiments or aspects are
contemplated by the present disclosure wherein the hub member 16
includes any other number of spring arms 17 configured to engage
one or any other number of teeth 9, according to the user's
preference.
[0088] Still referring to the non-limiting embodiment or aspect of
the present disclosure depicted in FIG. 7, when a rotational force
is applied to the rotatable knob 15 in a first direction, the
rotatable knob 15 translates the rotational force to the hub member
16. The at least one tooth 9 is configured to allow a rotation of
at least one of the spring arms 17 in response to the rotational
force applied to the rotatable knob 15 in the first direction.
Because the hub member 16 is configured to engage the central post
18, and the first end 5 of the elongated cord 4 is affixed to the
central post 18, a rotational force applied in the first direction
is further translated to the central post 18 and thereby, enables
the first end 5 of the elongated cord 4 to wind around the central
post 18. Thus, the length of the elongated cord 4 configured around
a perimeter of the headband member 3 decreases when the rotatable
knob 15 is rotated in the first direction. However, when no
rotational force is applied to the rotatable knob 15, at least one
of the spring arms 17 is configured to engage the at least one
tooth 9, thereby preventing rotation of the central post 18 and
engaging the elongated cord 4 in a locked position. According to
the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 7, the locking member 8 also
includes a cap 19 to facilitate the engagement between the
rotatable knob 15, central post 18, and hub member 16. However, the
present disclosure further contemplates other non-limiting
embodiments or aspects without the cap 19 depicted in FIG. 7.
[0089] In further reference to the non-limiting embodiment or
aspect of the present disclosure depicted in FIG. 7, the locked
position can be overcome when a rotational force is applied to the
rotatable knob 15 in a second direction, or the direction of
engagement between the spring arms 17 and the at least one tooth 9.
This is because the spring arms 17 are cantilevered from the hub
member 16, which allows them to depress below the at least one
tooth 9 in response to a rotational force applied in the second
direction, thereby allowing a rotation of the spring arms 17 beyond
the at least one tooth 9. When a rotational force is applied in the
second direction, the hub member 16 further translates the
rotational force to the central post 18, thereby unwinding the
elongated cord 4 from the central post 18. Thus, the length of the
elongated cord 4 configured around a perimeter of the headband
member 3 increases when the rotatable knob 15 is rotated in the
second direction. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of
the present disclosure, the elongated cord 4 may be made from a
tensile material, such that the elongated cord 4 stretches around
the central post 18. Non-limiting examples of such an elongated
cord 4 include those made from rubber, or other forms of elastic
material, such as a bungee and/or the like. In still further
non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure, the
elongated cord 4 is not made from a tensile material, and it is
merely wound around the central post 18.
[0090] While wearing a helmet with a headband arrangement 1 and
adjustment mechanism 2 according to the non-limiting embodiment or
aspect of FIG. 7, a user can adjust the fit of the headband
arrangement 1 by rotating the rotatable knob 15 in either a first
direction or a second direction, thereby overcoming the locked
position of the at least one tooth 9, and either winding or
unwinding the first end 5 of the elongated cord 4 around the
central post 18. As the rotatable knob 15 is rotated in the second
direction, the length of the elongated cord 4 configured around a
perimeter of the headband member 3 increases, and the headband
member 3 is adjusted for a looser fit around the user's head. As
the rotatable knob 15 is rotated in the first direction, the length
of the elongated cord 4 configured around a perimeter of the
headband member 3 decreases, and the headband member 3 is adjusted
for a tighter fit around the user's head.
[0091] Although the disclosure has been described in detail for the
purpose of illustration based on what are currently considered to
be the most practical and preferred examples or aspects, it is to
be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that
the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed examples or aspects,
but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and
equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the
appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the
present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one
or more features of any example or aspect can be combined with one
or more features of any other example or aspect.
* * * * *