US20080141439A1 - Ear Warmer Having A Membrane Forming A Receptacle - Google Patents
Ear Warmer Having A Membrane Forming A Receptacle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080141439A1 US20080141439A1 US11/754,327 US75432707A US2008141439A1 US 20080141439 A1 US20080141439 A1 US 20080141439A1 US 75432707 A US75432707 A US 75432707A US 2008141439 A1 US2008141439 A1 US 2008141439A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- membrane
- ear
- cover
- receptacle
- configuration
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- Abandoned
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- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 158
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 27
- 230000027455 binding Effects 0.000 description 16
- 238000009739 binding Methods 0.000 description 16
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 15
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 14
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 10
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 10
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002209 hydrophobic effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000005069 ears Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000013013 elastic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009940 knitting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037081 physical activity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009958 sewing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002356 single layer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007779 soft material Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F11/00—Methods or devices for treatment of the ears or hearing sense; Non-electric hearing aids; Methods or devices for enabling ear patients to achieve auditory perception through physiological senses other than hearing sense; Protective devices for the ears, carried on the body or in the hand
- A61F11/06—Protective devices for the ears
- A61F11/14—Protective devices for the ears external, e.g. earcaps or earmuffs
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to ear warmers, and in particular to ear warmers that are configured to extend around the back of a user's head.
- ear warmers extend over the top of a user's head. To retain such a conventional ear warmer in place on the user, a top of the user's head provides support to the ear warmer. Ear warmers that are configured to extend around the back of a user's head, however, are not supported by the head of the user. Therefore, ear warmers that are configured to extend around the back of a user's head may have a tendency, especially during extreme physical activity, such as running or jogging, to slip or slide away from a particular placement on the user's head.
- An ear warmer includes a cover and a membrane coupled to the cover.
- the membrane is disposable in a deployed configuration and in a retracted configuration.
- the membrane and the cover form a receptacle that is configured to receive an ear or a portion of an ear of a user when the ear warmer is worn by the user.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ear warmer according to an embodiment of the invention disposed in one configuration.
- FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly view of members of a cover of an ear warmer according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a top view of the ear warmer illustrated in FIG. 1 in an extended planar configuration.
- FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the ear warmer illustrated in FIG. 1 taken along line 4 - 4 of FIG. 3 .
- FIGS. 5A and 5B are side views of membranes according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the ear warmer illustrated in FIG. 1 disposed in another configuration.
- FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional front view of the ear warmer illustrated in FIG. 6 taken along line 6 A- 6 A of FIG. 6 .
- FIGS. 7-8 are perspective views of the ear warmer illustrated in FIG. 1 disposed in other configurations.
- FIG. 9 is a top view of an example of an embodiment of a frame of the ear warmer illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the frame illustrated in FIG. 9 .
- FIGS. 11-12 are top views of the members of covers according to other embodiments of the invention.
- FIGS. 13-14 are top views of frames according to other embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 15 is perspective view of an ear warmer according to another embodiment of the invention.
- An ear warmer includes a cover and a membrane coupled to the cover.
- the membrane is disposable in a deployed configuration and in a retracted configuration.
- the membrane and the cover form a receptacle that is configured to receive an ear or a portion of an ear of a user when the ear warmer is worn by the user.
- FIGS. 1-8 An ear warmer 20 according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 1-8 .
- the ear warmer 20 includes a cover 30 , two membranes 90 and 92 , and a frame 80 .
- FIG. 1 illustrates the ear warmer 20 in a first configuration.
- FIGS. 2-4 An example of an embodiment of a cover is illustrated in FIGS. 2-4 .
- the cover 30 of the ear warmer 20 has ear portions 50 and 52 and a middle portion 54 as illustrated in FIG. 3 .
- the cover 30 includes an inner member or assembly 32 and an outer member 48 .
- the inner member 32 is configured to be disposed adjacent a user's head when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user.
- the inner member 32 can be a single member or an assembly of members as illustrated in FIG. 2 .
- the outer member 48 is disposed opposite the inner member 32 and is configured to be disposed apart from a user's head when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user. In other words, the outer member 48 is configured to be in a non-contact position with respect to the user's head when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user.
- An interior region 56 is defined by the inner member 32 and the outer member 48 (see FIG. 4 ).
- the frame 80 and other items may be disposed within the interior region 56 defined by the inner member 32 and the outer member 48 .
- the inner member 32 and the outer member 48 are unitary or monolithically formed.
- additional members including a heat-retaining member 46 , ear pads 44 and 42 , and a neckpiece 40 are disposed within the interior region 56 defined by the inner member 32 and the outer member 48 .
- additional members are not necessarily present.
- speakers are disposed within the interior region defined by the inner member and the outer member.
- the outer member 48 of the cover 30 is made of a material that functions as a barrier between the ambient conditions and the interior region 56 of the cover 30 . Specifically, the outer member 48 prevents moisture and air from entering the interior region 56 of the cover 30 . In one embodiment, the outer member 48 can also function to wick away moisture from the interior region 56 . In one embodiment, the outer member is made of Power-Dry® material, available from Malden Mills. In alternative embodiments, the outer member is made of other types of material and can perform any or all of the previously described different functions.
- the heat-retaining member 46 is configured to retain the heat displaced by a user wearing the ear warmer 20 . Additionally, the heat-retaining member 46 is configured to provide cushioning or padding to the ear warmer 20 . In this embodiment, the heat-retaining member 46 is a fleece material. In alternative embodiments, however, the heat-retaining member is made of another material that retains heat. In other embodiments, the heat-retaining member can be replaced with a member made of a material that does not retain heat, rather; the heat-retaining member is made of a material that provides cushioning, padding, or support to the ear warmer or to a user.
- the ear pads 42 and 44 function as an insulation layer for the ear warmer 20 .
- the ear pads 42 and 44 are made of a Thermolite® material, available from Dupont.
- the ear pads are made of a soft or elastic material or any other material that provides cushioning, padding, or support to the ear warmer or to a user.
- the neckpiece 40 is configured to retain some of the heat displaced by a user wearing the ear warmer 20 . Additionally, the neckpiece 40 is configured to provide cushioning or padding to the ear warmer 20 . In this embodiment, the neckpiece 40 is made of a fleece material. In alternative embodiments, however, the neckpiece can be made of any type of material that provides comfort to a user.
- the inner member or assembly 32 includes ear portions 34 and 36 and a middle portion 38 .
- each of the ear portions 34 and 36 includes a binding or a piece of material 51 and 53 , respectively, that covers an end of the respective ear portion. It is not necessary, however, that the ear portions 34 and 36 include bindings 51 and 53 . Additionally, it is not necessary that the inner member or assembly include a middle portion.
- the inner member 32 is made of a hydrophobic material or a material that is rendered hydrophobic.
- the material of the ear portion 34 and 36 and the middle portion 38 of the inner member 32 wicks perspiration or other wetness away from a user's head.
- the inner member 32 can be made of dri-release® material, available from United Knitting.
- the inner member is made of a different material, such as a fleece material or another type of material configured to provide comfort, such as temperature and/or moisture control, to the user.
- the portions of the inner member are not made of the same material.
- the inner member is made of a single piece of material.
- the layers of the cover including the outer member, the heat-retaining member, the ear pads, the neckpiece, and the inner member, have been described as being made of certain materials and providing certain functions, it is not necessary that all of the layers be present in the cover. Additionally, the different layers of the cover may provide different functions than those discussed above. In further embodiments, some or all of the layers of the cover are configured to stretch and mold to the shape of a user's ear. The layers, in such embodiments, enable the product to have a better friction fit due to more surface area being in contact with the user's ear. Additionally, in such embodiments, the layers of the cover provide added comfort, such as fit, temperature control, and moisture control, to the user.
- FIG. 4 A partial cross-sectional view of an ear portion of the cover of FIG. 3 is illustrated in FIG. 4 .
- the different layers of the cover 30 are stacked in a pile so the layers can be coupled together.
- the neckpiece 40 (not illustrated in FIG. 4 ) is stacked on top of the inner member 32 (of which ear portion 34 is illustrated in FIG. 4 )
- the ear pads 42 and 44 (ear pad 44 is not illustrated in FIG. 4 ) are stacked on the neckpiece 40 and the ear portions 34 and 36
- the heat-retaining member 46 is stacked on top of the ear pads 42 and 44
- the outer member 48 is stacked on top of the heat-retaining member 46 .
- a binding 58 is placed along the perimeter of the layers of the cover 30 such that the binding 58 encloses an end portion of the stack of layers of the cover, and the binding 58 is sewn therethrough.
- a seam is sewn though one portion of the binding 58 , through the pile of layers, and through another portion of the binding 58 .
- the binding 58 can be formed of one or more sections.
- the term “perimeter” is intended herein to include the perimeter or a portion offset from and proximate to the perimeter of a membrane, member or portion.
- the layers of the cover are stacked in a pile and are sewn together without the binding being present.
- the layers of the cover may be coupled via an interior seam.
- the seam can be disposed within an interior region of the cover by turning the sewn cover inside out.
- the ear warmer 20 includes membranes 90 and 92 coupled to the cover 30 .
- the membranes 90 and 92 are flexible members, such as fabric or mesh members.
- the membranes 90 and 92 need not be fabric or mesh members.
- the membranes 90 and 92 are coupled to the cover 30 and are configured to be disposed in several different configurations.
- the membrane 90 includes a proximal portion 94 (the portion of the membrane 90 that is proximal to the coupling of the membrane 90 and the cover 30 ) and a distal portion 96 (the portion of the membrane 90 that is distal from the coupling of the membrane 90 and the cover 30 ).
- the proximal portion 94 can be referred to as a fixed portion
- the distal portion 96 can be referred to as a movable portion (see FIGS. 7 and 8 ).
- the membrane 92 includes a proximal portion 98 (the portion of the membrane 92 that is proximal to the coupling of the membrane 92 and the cover 30 ) and a distal portion 100 (the portion that is distal from the coupling of the membrane 92 and the cover 30 ).
- each of the membranes 90 and 92 includes a binding 91 and 93 , respectively, coupled to a portion of the membranes 90 and 92 such as the distal portions 96 and 100 , respectively. It is not necessary, however, that either or both of the membranes 90 and 92 include the bindings 91 and 93 .
- a portion 95 of the membrane 90 is coupled to the outer member 48 of the cover 30 along a portion of a perimeter of the ear portion 50 of the cover 30 .
- a portion 97 of the membrane 92 is coupled to the outer member 48 of the cover 30 along a portion of a perimeter of the ear portion 52 of the cover 30 .
- the membranes 90 and 92 may be coupled to any other portion of the outer member 48 of the cover 30 , to any portion of the inner member 32 of the cover, between the inner member 32 and the outer member 48 , or to any other portion of the cover 30 .
- membrane 90 is sewn via a binding 58 to the outer member 48 of the cover 30 .
- Membrane 92 is similarly sewn via a binding to the outer member 48 of the cover 30 .
- the membranes 90 and 92 may be coupled to the outer member 48 via tacks, via an adhesive, such as glue, or via any other known coupling device or technique.
- the membranes 90 and 92 are coupled to the cover 30 via an interior seam, as previously discussed.
- each of the membranes 90 and 92 may be disposed in a retracted configuration.
- the distal portions 96 and 100 of the membranes 90 and 92 are disposed adjacent the outer member 48 of the cover 30 .
- the membranes 90 and 92 are disposed not in contact with a user's head when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user.
- each of the membranes 90 and 92 may be disposed in a deployed configuration.
- the distal portions 96 and 100 of the membranes 90 and 92 are disposed adjacent the inner member 32 of the cover 30 .
- the proximal portion 94 of the membrane 90 extends over a portion of a perimeter of the ear portion 50 of the cover 30 .
- the proximal portion 98 (not illustrated) of the membrane 92 extends over a portion of a perimeter of the ear portion 52 of the cover 30 .
- the membranes 90 and 92 are disposed adjacent a user's head when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user.
- the membrane 90 and inner member 32 of the cover 30 form a receptacle that is configured to receive an ear or a portion of an ear of a user.
- the membrane 92 and the inner member 32 of the cover 30 form a receptacle that is configured to receive an ear or a portion of an ear of a user. Therefore, when the membranes 90 and 92 are in their deployed configurations, a user may place the ear warmer 20 on the head of the user and may insert an ear or a portion of an ear into each of the receptacles formed by the membranes and the inner member 32 . In their retracted configurations, the membranes 90 and 92 form receptacles with the outer member 48 of the cover 30 .
- FIG. 6A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the ear warmer of FIG. 6 .
- the ear portion 52 and the outer member 48 of the cover 30 and the membrane 92 are illustrated.
- the membrane 92 is shown in its deployed configuration.
- the membrane 92 and the ear portion 52 form a receptacle 110 therebetween.
- Membrane 90 and cover 30 form a substantially similar receptacle therebetween when the membrane 90 is in its deployed configuration (not illustrated in FIG. 6A ).
- the membranes 90 and 92 need not be in the same configuration.
- the membrane 90 is disposed in a retracted configuration and the membrane 92 is disposed in a deployed configuration.
- the membrane 92 is in a deployed configuration, and the membrane 90 is in a configuration between its retracted configuration and its deployed configuration.
- the membranes 90 and 92 are flipped or rotated about their connections with the cover 30 to reconfigure the membranes 90 and 92 between their retracted configurations and their deployed configurations.
- a user grasps the membrane 90 , such as by the distal portion 96 , and rotates, flips, or otherwise moves the distal portion 96 of the membrane 90 from a position adjacent the outer member 48 of the cover 30 to a position adjacent the inner member 32 of the cover 30 .
- Membrane 92 is similarly moved between its deployed and retracted configurations.
- Membrane 92 can be similarly manipulated and positioned.
- FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of an example of a frame that can be used with cover 30 .
- the frame 80 is configured to be disposed within the interior portion 56 of the cover 30 .
- at least a portion of the frame 80 is disposed within the interior portion 56 of the cover 30 between the heat-retaining member 46 and the ear pad 42 .
- the frame 80 is a four piece frame and includes a first band member 82 , a second band member 84 , a first ear member 86 , and a second ear member 88 .
- the frame 80 is adjustable in length because the first band member 82 is slidably coupled to the second band member 84 .
- An example of an adjustable frame that includes a first band portion that is slidably coupled to a second band portion is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,835,609, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference (see, e.g., FIGS. 28-38 and the associated written description in U.S. Pat. No. 5,835,609).
- each of the first ear member and the second ear member can be movably coupled to a band member to allow for adjustability of the frame.
- the frame can include a fixed length band member.
- the ear members can be fixedly coupled to a band member.
- FIG. 10 illustrates the first ear member 86 of the frame 80 .
- the second ear member 88 of the frame 80 is functionally and structurally similar to the first ear member 86 . Therefore, only the first ear member 86 is illustrated in FIG. 10 and discussed in detail.
- the first ear member 86 defines an opening 81 . More specifically, the first ear member 86 has a frusto-conical shape that is conducive to being comfortably placed against a user's head. In other embodiments, the first ear member and the second ear member can have other shapes and configurations that can be placed against a user's head.
- the first ear member 86 includes a connection portion 87 .
- the connection portion 87 includes a hole 89 that aligns with a similar hole (not illustrated) in first band member 82 .
- a connection device such as a rivet, a screw, a pin, or any other known connection member extends though the hole of the first band member 82 and the hole 89 of the connection portion 87 to couple the first ear member 86 to the first band member 82 .
- the connection portion of the first ear member 86 is an integral snap-fit connector that complementarily fits with an associated portion on the first band member 82 .
- the ear warmer 20 is configured to remain substantially in place on a head of a user when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user.
- the frame 80 is configured to apply a compression force on the head of a user when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user.
- a receptacle formed by one of the membranes 90 and 92 and the cover 30 produces a friction force on a user's ear when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user and the ear of the user is at least partially inserted into the receptacle.
- the user's ear acts as a mechanical stop so that the ear warmer 20 can hang on the user's ear.
- the compression force of the frame 80 and the friction force of the membrane/cover receptacle collectively secure the ear warmer 20 on the head of the user.
- FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a cover that can be used in the ear warmer of the disclosed invention.
- the cover 130 is a two piece cover and includes an inner member 132 and an outer member 148 .
- the inner member 132 is coupled to the outer member 148 .
- the inner member 132 and the outer member 148 of the cover 130 define an interior region therebetween (not illustrated).
- An example of such a cover is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/056,093, filed on Jan. 28, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,735,784, issued May 18, 2004, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- the inner member 132 is sewn along a portion of the perimeter of the inner member 132 to the outer member 148 .
- a binding is sewn to the inner member 132 and the outer member 148 .
- the inner member 132 is coupled to the outer member 148 via a tack, an adhesive, such as glue, or any other coupling mechanism or technique.
- the inner member 132 and the outer member 148 can be coupled together by a seam.
- the inner member 132 is not coupled to the outer member 148 along a portion of the perimeter of the inner member 132 ; rather, another portion of the inner member 132 is coupled to the outer member 148 .
- Membranes 90 and 92 can be coupled to the cover 30 as previously described.
- FIG. 12 illustrates a further alternative embodiment of a cover that can be used in the ear warmer of the disclosed invention.
- the cover 230 is a four piece cover and includes a first inner member 260 , a second inner member 262 , a third inner member 264 , and an outer member 248 .
- the inner members 260 , 262 , and 264 are coupled to the outer member 248 .
- the inner members 260 , 262 , and 264 and the outer member 248 of the cover 230 collectively define an interior region therebetween (not illustrated).
- An example of such a cover is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/056,093, filed on Jan. 28, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,735,784, issued May 18, 2004, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- the inner members 260 , 262 , and 264 are sewn to the perimeter of the outer member 248 .
- the inner members 260 , 262 , and 264 are coupled to the outer member 248 via tacks, an adhesive, such as glue, or any other coupling mechanism or technique.
- Membranes 90 and 92 can be coupled to the cover 30 as previously described.
- FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate alternative embodiments of frames that may be used in the ear warmer of the present invention.
- the frame 180 is a three piece frame.
- the frame 180 includes a band member 183 , a first ear member 186 , and a second ear member 188 .
- the first ear member 186 and the second ear member 188 each defines an opening.
- the first ear member 186 is coupled to a first end 185 of the band member 183 .
- the second ear member 188 is coupled to a second end 187 of the band member 183 .
- each of the ear members 186 and 188 is coupled to the band member 183 via a rivet (not illustrated).
- each of the ear members 186 and 188 is coupled to the band member 183 via any another coupling mechanism or technique, such as a staple, an adhesive, or a button.
- the first ear member 186 , the second ear member 188 , and the band member 183 are made of a plastic material.
- the first ear member 186 , the second ear member 188 and the band member 183 are made of another material, such as a metal.
- Frame 280 is a single piece frame.
- the frame 280 includes a first ear portion 286 , a second ear portion 288 , and a band portion 282 .
- Each of the ear portions 286 and 288 defines an opening.
- the frame 280 is made of a plastic material.
- the frame is made of another material, such as a metal.
- FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the ear warmer in according to the invention.
- the ear warmer 520 includes two covers 530 (only one is illustrated), two membranes 590 (only one is illustrated), and a frame 580 .
- the frame 580 is a one piece frame and has a first ear portion 586 , a second ear portion 588 , and a band portion 582 .
- the frame 580 can be made of multiple components that are fixedly or removably coupled to each other.
- the frame 580 includes an inner side 581 (the side of the frame that is disposed adjacent a user's head when the ear warmer is worn by the user) and an outer side 583 (the side of the frame that is disposed not in contact with a user's head when the ear warmer is worn by the user).
- the covers 530 are substantially similar to each other in function and structure. Therefore, only one cover will be discussed in detail.
- the cover 530 is a single layer of material that is configured to cover one side of the ear portion 588 of the frame 580 .
- the cover 530 can cover at least a portion of more than one side of the ear portion 588 of the frame 580 .
- the cover 530 can cover one side of the ear portion and at least a portion of the band portion.
- the cover 530 is coupled to the inner side 581 of the frame 580 via a RF (radio frequency) weld or an ultrasonic weld. It is not necessary, however, that the cover be coupled to the inner side 581 of the frame 580 via a weld.
- the cover is coupled, via any known coupling method, to any other portion of the frame.
- the cover may be coupled to the outer side of the frame via any coupling technique, such as a weld or an adhesive, such as glue.
- the frame 580 of the ear warmer 520 is exposed (meaning that at least a portion of the frame is not covered by the cover 530 ).
- the band portion 582 of the frame 580 and the outer sides of the ear portions 586 and 588 are not covered by the cover 530 .
- more or less of the frame 580 is covered by the cover 530 .
- the membranes 590 are substantially similar to each other in function and structure. Therefore, only one membrane 590 will be discussed in detail.
- the membrane 590 is flexible and is coupled to an inner side 533 (the side of the cover 530 that is disposed adjacent a user's head when the ear warmer is worn by the user) of the cover 530 .
- the membrane 590 has a proximal portion 594 (the portion of the membrane 590 proximal to the coupling of the membrane 590 and the cover 530 ) and a distal portion 596 (the portion of the membrane 590 distal from the coupling of the membrane 590 and the cover 530 ).
- the membrane 590 has a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration.
- a distal portion 596 of the membrane is disposed adjacent an inner side 533 of the cover 530 (see FIG. 15 ).
- the membrane 590 and the inner side 533 of the cover 580 form a receptacle that is configured to receive at least a portion of an ear of a user when the ear warmer 520 is worn by the user.
- the distal portion 596 is disposed adjacent an outer side (the side of the cover opposite the inner side) (not illustrated) of the cover 530 .
- the membrane 590 is sewn to the cover 530 . Additionally, in one embodiment, the membrane 590 includes a binding 595 coupled to an edge of the membrane 590 . It is not necessary, however, that the membrane 590 includes a binding 595 . Additionally, it is not necessary that the membrane 590 be sewn to the cover 530 . In alternative embodiments, the membrane 590 is coupled to any portion of the cover 530 via any known coupling method. In further alternative embodiments, the membrane 590 is coupled to a portion of the frame 580 , such as the first ear portion 588 of the frame 580 , via any known coupling method.
- the membranes can have any shape or configuration.
- the configuration of the proximal portion of a membrane does not have to be substantially the same as the perimeter of a part of the cover.
- the membranes can be coupled at any location on the ear warmer that allow a user to insert the user's ears into receptacles formed by the membranes on the ear warmer.
- the ear warmer includes two ear portions and a membrane coupled to each of the ear portions.
- the ear warmer also includes a cover that is configured to extend around the back of a user's head.
- the cover is also configured to cover at least a portion of the ear portion.
- An ear warmer with such a cover is described in co-pending patent application entitled “Ear Warmer Having an External Frame,” Attorney Docket No. GRAY032/00US, filed Aug. 12, 2003, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/638,476, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0034216A1 on Feb. 17, 2005, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.
Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/638,554, filed Aug. 12, 2003, entitled “Ear Warmer Having A Membrane Forming A Receptacle,” Attorney Docket No. GRAY033/00US, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0034217A1 on Feb. 17, 2005, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application is related to co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/638,476 entitled “Ear Warmer Having an External Frame,” Attorney Docket No. GRAY032/00US, filed Aug. 12, 2003, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0024216A1 on Feb. 17, 2005; and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/638,553 entitled “Ear Warmer With a Speaker System,” Attorney Docket No. GRAY031/00US, filed Aug. 12, 2003, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0036643A1 on Feb. 17, 2005; the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- This invention relates generally to ear warmers, and in particular to ear warmers that are configured to extend around the back of a user's head.
- Conventional ear warmers extend over the top of a user's head. To retain such a conventional ear warmer in place on the user, a top of the user's head provides support to the ear warmer. Ear warmers that are configured to extend around the back of a user's head, however, are not supported by the head of the user. Therefore, ear warmers that are configured to extend around the back of a user's head may have a tendency, especially during extreme physical activity, such as running or jogging, to slip or slide away from a particular placement on the user's head.
- A need, therefore, exists for an ear warmer that is configured to extend around the back of a user's head that, when placed on the user, resists movement of ear warmer with respect to the user.
- An ear warmer includes a cover and a membrane coupled to the cover. The membrane is disposable in a deployed configuration and in a retracted configuration. When the membrane is disposed in its deployed configuration, the membrane and the cover form a receptacle that is configured to receive an ear or a portion of an ear of a user when the ear warmer is worn by the user.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ear warmer according to an embodiment of the invention disposed in one configuration. -
FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly view of members of a cover of an ear warmer according to an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3 is a top view of the ear warmer illustrated inFIG. 1 in an extended planar configuration. -
FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the ear warmer illustrated inFIG. 1 taken along line 4-4 ofFIG. 3 . -
FIGS. 5A and 5B are side views of membranes according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the ear warmer illustrated inFIG. 1 disposed in another configuration. -
FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional front view of the ear warmer illustrated inFIG. 6 taken alongline 6A-6A ofFIG. 6 . -
FIGS. 7-8 are perspective views of the ear warmer illustrated inFIG. 1 disposed in other configurations. -
FIG. 9 is a top view of an example of an embodiment of a frame of the ear warmer illustrated inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the frame illustrated inFIG. 9 . -
FIGS. 11-12 are top views of the members of covers according to other embodiments of the invention. -
FIGS. 13-14 are top views of frames according to other embodiments of the invention. -
FIG. 15 is perspective view of an ear warmer according to another embodiment of the invention. - An ear warmer includes a cover and a membrane coupled to the cover. The membrane is disposable in a deployed configuration and in a retracted configuration. When the membrane is disposed in its deployed configuration, the membrane and the cover form a receptacle that is configured to receive an ear or a portion of an ear of a user when the ear warmer is worn by the user.
- An ear warmer 20 according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in
FIGS. 1-8 . In the illustrated embodiment, the ear warmer 20 includes acover 30, twomembranes frame 80.FIG. 1 illustrates the ear warmer 20 in a first configuration. - An example of an embodiment of a cover is illustrated in
FIGS. 2-4 . In this embodiment, thecover 30 of the ear warmer 20 hasear portions middle portion 54 as illustrated inFIG. 3 . As illustrated inFIG. 2 , thecover 30 includes an inner member orassembly 32 and anouter member 48. Theinner member 32 is configured to be disposed adjacent a user's head when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user. Theinner member 32 can be a single member or an assembly of members as illustrated inFIG. 2 . - The
outer member 48 is disposed opposite theinner member 32 and is configured to be disposed apart from a user's head when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user. In other words, theouter member 48 is configured to be in a non-contact position with respect to the user's head when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user. Aninterior region 56 is defined by theinner member 32 and the outer member 48 (seeFIG. 4 ). Theframe 80 and other items may be disposed within theinterior region 56 defined by theinner member 32 and theouter member 48. In one embodiment, theinner member 32 and theouter member 48 are unitary or monolithically formed. - In this embodiment, additional members, including a heat-retaining
member 46,ear pads neckpiece 40 are disposed within theinterior region 56 defined by theinner member 32 and theouter member 48. In other embodiments, some or all of the additional members are not necessarily present. In further embodiments, speakers are disposed within the interior region defined by the inner member and the outer member. - In this embodiment, the
outer member 48 of thecover 30 is made of a material that functions as a barrier between the ambient conditions and theinterior region 56 of thecover 30. Specifically, theouter member 48 prevents moisture and air from entering theinterior region 56 of thecover 30. In one embodiment, theouter member 48 can also function to wick away moisture from theinterior region 56. In one embodiment, the outer member is made of Power-Dry® material, available from Malden Mills. In alternative embodiments, the outer member is made of other types of material and can perform any or all of the previously described different functions. - The heat-retaining
member 46 is configured to retain the heat displaced by a user wearing the ear warmer 20. Additionally, the heat-retainingmember 46 is configured to provide cushioning or padding to the ear warmer 20. In this embodiment, the heat-retainingmember 46 is a fleece material. In alternative embodiments, however, the heat-retaining member is made of another material that retains heat. In other embodiments, the heat-retaining member can be replaced with a member made of a material that does not retain heat, rather; the heat-retaining member is made of a material that provides cushioning, padding, or support to the ear warmer or to a user. - The
ear pads ear pads - The
neckpiece 40 is configured to retain some of the heat displaced by a user wearing the ear warmer 20. Additionally, theneckpiece 40 is configured to provide cushioning or padding to the ear warmer 20. In this embodiment, theneckpiece 40 is made of a fleece material. In alternative embodiments, however, the neckpiece can be made of any type of material that provides comfort to a user. - In one embodiment, the inner member or
assembly 32 includesear portions middle portion 38. As illustrated inFIG. 2 , each of theear portions material ear portions bindings - In this embodiment, the
inner member 32, including theear portions middle portion 38, is made of a hydrophobic material or a material that is rendered hydrophobic. The material of theear portion middle portion 38 of theinner member 32 wicks perspiration or other wetness away from a user's head. In one embodiment, theinner member 32 can be made of dri-release® material, available from United Knitting. In an alternative embodiment, the inner member is made of a different material, such as a fleece material or another type of material configured to provide comfort, such as temperature and/or moisture control, to the user. In another alternative embodiment, the portions of the inner member are not made of the same material. In a further embodiment, the inner member is made of a single piece of material. - Although the layers of the cover, including the outer member, the heat-retaining member, the ear pads, the neckpiece, and the inner member, have been described as being made of certain materials and providing certain functions, it is not necessary that all of the layers be present in the cover. Additionally, the different layers of the cover may provide different functions than those discussed above. In further embodiments, some or all of the layers of the cover are configured to stretch and mold to the shape of a user's ear. The layers, in such embodiments, enable the product to have a better friction fit due to more surface area being in contact with the user's ear. Additionally, in such embodiments, the layers of the cover provide added comfort, such as fit, temperature control, and moisture control, to the user.
- A partial cross-sectional view of an ear portion of the cover of
FIG. 3 is illustrated inFIG. 4 . Referring toFIGS. 2 and 4 , in one embodiment, the different layers of thecover 30 are stacked in a pile so the layers can be coupled together. For example, the neckpiece 40 (not illustrated inFIG. 4 ) is stacked on top of the inner member 32 (of whichear portion 34 is illustrated inFIG. 4 ), theear pads 42 and 44 (ear pad 44 is not illustrated inFIG. 4 ) are stacked on theneckpiece 40 and theear portions member 46 is stacked on top of theear pads outer member 48 is stacked on top of the heat-retainingmember 46. As illustrated inFIGS. 3 and 4 , a binding 58 is placed along the perimeter of the layers of thecover 30 such that the binding 58 encloses an end portion of the stack of layers of the cover, and the binding 58 is sewn therethrough. In particular, a seam is sewn though one portion of the binding 58, through the pile of layers, and through another portion of the binding 58. The binding 58 can be formed of one or more sections. The term “perimeter” is intended herein to include the perimeter or a portion offset from and proximate to the perimeter of a membrane, member or portion. - In an alternative embodiment, the layers of the cover are stacked in a pile and are sewn together without the binding being present. In a further alternative embodiment, the layers of the cover may be coupled via an interior seam. In other words, after sewing the layers together, the seam can be disposed within an interior region of the cover by turning the sewn cover inside out. One example of an interior seam is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,332,223 B1, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , the ear warmer 20 includesmembranes cover 30. Themembranes membranes membranes cover 30 and are configured to be disposed in several different configurations. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 , 5A and 5B, themembrane 90 includes a proximal portion 94 (the portion of themembrane 90 that is proximal to the coupling of themembrane 90 and the cover 30) and a distal portion 96 (the portion of themembrane 90 that is distal from the coupling of themembrane 90 and the cover 30). Theproximal portion 94 can be referred to as a fixed portion, and thedistal portion 96 can be referred to as a movable portion (seeFIGS. 7 and 8 ). Themembrane 92 includes a proximal portion 98 (the portion of themembrane 92 that is proximal to the coupling of themembrane 92 and the cover 30) and a distal portion 100 (the portion that is distal from the coupling of themembrane 92 and the cover 30). - In this embodiment, each of the
membranes membranes distal portions membranes bindings - In one embodiment, a
portion 95 of themembrane 90 is coupled to theouter member 48 of thecover 30 along a portion of a perimeter of theear portion 50 of thecover 30. Similarly, aportion 97 of themembrane 92 is coupled to theouter member 48 of thecover 30 along a portion of a perimeter of theear portion 52 of thecover 30. In alternative embodiments, however, themembranes outer member 48 of thecover 30, to any portion of theinner member 32 of the cover, between theinner member 32 and theouter member 48, or to any other portion of thecover 30. As illustrated inFIG. 4 ,membrane 90 is sewn via a binding 58 to theouter member 48 of thecover 30.Membrane 92 is similarly sewn via a binding to theouter member 48 of thecover 30. In an alternative embodiment, themembranes outer member 48 via tacks, via an adhesive, such as glue, or via any other known coupling device or technique. In another embodiment, themembranes cover 30 via an interior seam, as previously discussed. - As illustrated in
FIG. 1 , each of themembranes distal portions membranes outer member 48 of thecover 30. In these configurations, themembranes - As illustrated in
FIG. 6 , each of themembranes distal portions membranes inner member 32 of thecover 30. In these configurations, theproximal portion 94 of themembrane 90 extends over a portion of a perimeter of theear portion 50 of thecover 30. Similarly, the proximal portion 98 (not illustrated) of themembrane 92 extends over a portion of a perimeter of theear portion 52 of thecover 30. - In the deployed configurations, the
membranes membrane 90 andinner member 32 of thecover 30 form a receptacle that is configured to receive an ear or a portion of an ear of a user. Similarly, themembrane 92 and theinner member 32 of thecover 30 form a receptacle that is configured to receive an ear or a portion of an ear of a user. Therefore, when themembranes inner member 32. In their retracted configurations, themembranes outer member 48 of thecover 30. -
FIG. 6A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the ear warmer ofFIG. 6 . Theear portion 52 and theouter member 48 of thecover 30 and themembrane 92 are illustrated. Themembrane 92 is shown in its deployed configuration. Themembrane 92 and theear portion 52 form areceptacle 110 therebetween.Membrane 90 and cover 30 form a substantially similar receptacle therebetween when themembrane 90 is in its deployed configuration (not illustrated inFIG. 6A ). - The
membranes FIG. 7 , themembrane 90 is disposed in a retracted configuration and themembrane 92 is disposed in a deployed configuration. - In
FIG. 8 , themembrane 92 is in a deployed configuration, and themembrane 90 is in a configuration between its retracted configuration and its deployed configuration. Themembranes cover 30 to reconfigure themembranes - For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 8 , to reconfigure themembrane 90 from a retracted configuration to a deployed configuration, a user grasps themembrane 90, such as by thedistal portion 96, and rotates, flips, or otherwise moves thedistal portion 96 of themembrane 90 from a position adjacent theouter member 48 of thecover 30 to a position adjacent theinner member 32 of thecover 30.Membrane 92 is similarly moved between its deployed and retracted configurations. - To reconfigure
membrane 90 from its deployed configuration to its retracted configuration, the above steps are performed in reverse, i.e., the user graspsmembrane 90 and rotates, flips, or otherwise moves themembrane 90 from a position adjacent theinner member 32 of thecover 30 to a position adjacent theouter member 48 of thecover 30.Membrane 92 can be similarly manipulated and positioned. -
FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of an example of a frame that can be used withcover 30. In one embodiment, theframe 80 is configured to be disposed within theinterior portion 56 of thecover 30. As illustrated inFIG. 4 , at least a portion of theframe 80 is disposed within theinterior portion 56 of thecover 30 between the heat-retainingmember 46 and theear pad 42. - In one embodiment, the
frame 80 is a four piece frame and includes afirst band member 82, asecond band member 84, afirst ear member 86, and asecond ear member 88. In this embodiment, theframe 80 is adjustable in length because thefirst band member 82 is slidably coupled to thesecond band member 84. An example of an adjustable frame that includes a first band portion that is slidably coupled to a second band portion is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,835,609, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference (see, e.g., FIGS. 28-38 and the associated written description in U.S. Pat. No. 5,835,609). In an alternative embodiment, each of the first ear member and the second ear member can be movably coupled to a band member to allow for adjustability of the frame. In an alternative embodiment, the frame can include a fixed length band member. Also, the ear members can be fixedly coupled to a band member. -
FIG. 10 illustrates thefirst ear member 86 of theframe 80. In the embodiment ofFIG. 9 , thesecond ear member 88 of theframe 80 is functionally and structurally similar to thefirst ear member 86. Therefore, only thefirst ear member 86 is illustrated inFIG. 10 and discussed in detail. In this embodiment, thefirst ear member 86 defines an opening 81. More specifically, thefirst ear member 86 has a frusto-conical shape that is conducive to being comfortably placed against a user's head. In other embodiments, the first ear member and the second ear member can have other shapes and configurations that can be placed against a user's head. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
first ear member 86 includes aconnection portion 87. Theconnection portion 87 includes ahole 89 that aligns with a similar hole (not illustrated) infirst band member 82. A connection device such as a rivet, a screw, a pin, or any other known connection member extends though the hole of thefirst band member 82 and thehole 89 of theconnection portion 87 to couple thefirst ear member 86 to thefirst band member 82. In an alternative embodiment, the connection portion of thefirst ear member 86 is an integral snap-fit connector that complementarily fits with an associated portion on thefirst band member 82. - The ear warmer 20 is configured to remain substantially in place on a head of a user when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user. The
frame 80 is configured to apply a compression force on the head of a user when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user. Additionally, a receptacle formed by one of themembranes cover 30 produces a friction force on a user's ear when the ear warmer 20 is worn by the user and the ear of the user is at least partially inserted into the receptacle. In other words, the user's ear acts as a mechanical stop so that the ear warmer 20 can hang on the user's ear. The compression force of theframe 80 and the friction force of the membrane/cover receptacle collectively secure the ear warmer 20 on the head of the user. -
FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a cover that can be used in the ear warmer of the disclosed invention. Thecover 130 is a two piece cover and includes aninner member 132 and anouter member 148. Theinner member 132 is coupled to theouter member 148. Theinner member 132 and theouter member 148 of thecover 130 define an interior region therebetween (not illustrated). An example of such a cover is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/056,093, filed on Jan. 28, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,735,784, issued May 18, 2004, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. - In one embodiment, the
inner member 132 is sewn along a portion of the perimeter of theinner member 132 to theouter member 148. In one embodiment, a binding is sewn to theinner member 132 and theouter member 148. In alternative embodiments, theinner member 132 is coupled to theouter member 148 via a tack, an adhesive, such as glue, or any other coupling mechanism or technique. Alternatively, theinner member 132 and theouter member 148 can be coupled together by a seam. In another embodiment, theinner member 132 is not coupled to theouter member 148 along a portion of the perimeter of theinner member 132; rather, another portion of theinner member 132 is coupled to theouter member 148.Membranes cover 30 as previously described. -
FIG. 12 illustrates a further alternative embodiment of a cover that can be used in the ear warmer of the disclosed invention. Thecover 230 is a four piece cover and includes a firstinner member 260, a secondinner member 262, a thirdinner member 264, and anouter member 248. Theinner members outer member 248. Theinner members outer member 248 of thecover 230 collectively define an interior region therebetween (not illustrated). An example of such a cover is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/056,093, filed on Jan. 28, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,735,784, issued May 18, 2004, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. - In one embodiment, the
inner members outer member 248. In alternative embodiments, theinner members outer member 248 via tacks, an adhesive, such as glue, or any other coupling mechanism or technique.Membranes cover 30 as previously described. -
FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate alternative embodiments of frames that may be used in the ear warmer of the present invention. As illustrated inFIG. 13 , the frame 180 is a three piece frame. The frame 180 includes aband member 183, afirst ear member 186, and asecond ear member 188. In one embodiment, thefirst ear member 186 and thesecond ear member 188 each defines an opening. - The
first ear member 186 is coupled to afirst end 185 of theband member 183. Similarly, thesecond ear member 188 is coupled to asecond end 187 of theband member 183. In one embodiment, each of theear members band member 183 via a rivet (not illustrated). In an alternative embodiment, each of theear members band member 183 via any another coupling mechanism or technique, such as a staple, an adhesive, or a button. In one embodiment, thefirst ear member 186, thesecond ear member 188, and theband member 183 are made of a plastic material. In alternative embodiments, thefirst ear member 186, thesecond ear member 188 and theband member 183 are made of another material, such as a metal. - Another example of a frame is illustrated in
FIG. 14 .Frame 280 is a single piece frame. Theframe 280 includes afirst ear portion 286, asecond ear portion 288, and aband portion 282. Each of theear portions frame 280 is made of a plastic material. In an alternative embodiment, the frame is made of another material, such as a metal. -
FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the ear warmer in according to the invention. The ear warmer 520 includes two covers 530 (only one is illustrated), two membranes 590 (only one is illustrated), and aframe 580. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
frame 580 is a one piece frame and has afirst ear portion 586, asecond ear portion 588, and aband portion 582. In an alternative embodiment, theframe 580 can be made of multiple components that are fixedly or removably coupled to each other. Theframe 580 includes an inner side 581 (the side of the frame that is disposed adjacent a user's head when the ear warmer is worn by the user) and an outer side 583 (the side of the frame that is disposed not in contact with a user's head when the ear warmer is worn by the user). - The
covers 530 are substantially similar to each other in function and structure. Therefore, only one cover will be discussed in detail. Thecover 530 is a single layer of material that is configured to cover one side of theear portion 588 of theframe 580. In an alternative embodiment, thecover 530 can cover at least a portion of more than one side of theear portion 588 of theframe 580. In another alternative embodiment, thecover 530 can cover one side of the ear portion and at least a portion of the band portion. - In this embodiment, the
cover 530 is coupled to theinner side 581 of theframe 580 via a RF (radio frequency) weld or an ultrasonic weld. It is not necessary, however, that the cover be coupled to theinner side 581 of theframe 580 via a weld. In alternative embodiments, the cover is coupled, via any known coupling method, to any other portion of the frame. For example, the cover may be coupled to the outer side of the frame via any coupling technique, such as a weld or an adhesive, such as glue. - In this embodiment, at least a portion of the
frame 580 of the ear warmer 520 is exposed (meaning that at least a portion of the frame is not covered by the cover 530). In this embodiment, theband portion 582 of theframe 580 and the outer sides of theear portions cover 530. In alternative embodiments, more or less of theframe 580 is covered by thecover 530. - The
membranes 590 are substantially similar to each other in function and structure. Therefore, only onemembrane 590 will be discussed in detail. Themembrane 590 is flexible and is coupled to an inner side 533 (the side of thecover 530 that is disposed adjacent a user's head when the ear warmer is worn by the user) of thecover 530. Themembrane 590 has a proximal portion 594 (the portion of themembrane 590 proximal to the coupling of themembrane 590 and the cover 530) and a distal portion 596 (the portion of themembrane 590 distal from the coupling of themembrane 590 and the cover 530). - The
membrane 590 has a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration. When themembrane 590 is in its deployed configuration, a distal portion 596 of the membrane is disposed adjacent aninner side 533 of the cover 530 (seeFIG. 15 ). Themembrane 590 and theinner side 533 of thecover 580 form a receptacle that is configured to receive at least a portion of an ear of a user when the ear warmer 520 is worn by the user. When themembrane 590 is in its retracted configuration, the distal portion 596 is disposed adjacent an outer side (the side of the cover opposite the inner side) (not illustrated) of thecover 530. - In one embodiment, the
membrane 590 is sewn to thecover 530. Additionally, in one embodiment, themembrane 590 includes a binding 595 coupled to an edge of themembrane 590. It is not necessary, however, that themembrane 590 includes a binding 595. Additionally, it is not necessary that themembrane 590 be sewn to thecover 530. In alternative embodiments, themembrane 590 is coupled to any portion of thecover 530 via any known coupling method. In further alternative embodiments, themembrane 590 is coupled to a portion of theframe 580, such as thefirst ear portion 588 of theframe 580, via any known coupling method. - In alternative embodiments, the membranes can have any shape or configuration. The configuration of the proximal portion of a membrane does not have to be substantially the same as the perimeter of a part of the cover.
- In alternative embodiments, the membranes can be coupled at any location on the ear warmer that allow a user to insert the user's ears into receptacles formed by the membranes on the ear warmer.
- In an alternative embodiment, the ear warmer includes two ear portions and a membrane coupled to each of the ear portions. The ear warmer also includes a cover that is configured to extend around the back of a user's head. The cover is also configured to cover at least a portion of the ear portion. An ear warmer with such a cover is described in co-pending patent application entitled “Ear Warmer Having an External Frame,” Attorney Docket No. GRAY032/00US, filed Aug. 12, 2003, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/638,476, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0034216A1 on Feb. 17, 2005, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.
- While the invention has been described in detail and with references to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims (21)
Priority Applications (3)
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US12/168,001 US9259355B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2008-07-03 | Ear warmer with fabric member |
US12/168,027 US9066829B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2008-07-03 | Ear warmer with fabric member |
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US11/754,327 US20080141439A1 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2007-05-28 | Ear Warmer Having A Membrane Forming A Receptacle |
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US11/754,327 Abandoned US20080141439A1 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2007-05-28 | Ear Warmer Having A Membrane Forming A Receptacle |
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US7650649B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2010-01-26 | 180S, Inc. | Ear warmer having an external frame |
US20110119804A1 (en) * | 2008-02-15 | 2011-05-26 | Sound Team Enterprise Co., Ltd. | Earmuff assembly |
US7962970B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2011-06-21 | 180S, Inc. | Ear warmer having a curved ear portion |
US7996923B2 (en) | 2002-01-28 | 2011-08-16 | 180S, Inc. | Apparatus and method for making an ear warmer and an ear warmer frame |
US8438666B2 (en) | 2000-04-05 | 2013-05-14 | 180S, Inc. | Ear warmer with adjustability |
US8443466B2 (en) | 2007-01-22 | 2013-05-21 | 180S, Inc. | Ear protection device |
US9241517B2 (en) | 2000-12-29 | 2016-01-26 | 180S, Inc. | Ear protection device |
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US7212645B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2007-05-01 | 180S, Inc. | Ear warmer with a speaker system |
WO2010017359A1 (en) * | 2008-08-06 | 2010-02-11 | 180S, Inc. | Accessory with wireless communication capability |
US20110219518A1 (en) * | 2010-03-15 | 2011-09-15 | Shayna Leigh Schlickman | Earmuffs and Designer Headband Combination |
US10904654B2 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2021-01-26 | Hed Technologies Sarl | Method and system for audio sharing |
USD757367S1 (en) | 2015-03-02 | 2016-05-24 | InnovativeXchange, LLC | Ear muff |
USD828339S1 (en) * | 2016-08-26 | 2018-09-11 | Hed Technologies Sarl | Head phone cover |
US20220378137A1 (en) * | 2021-05-25 | 2022-12-01 | Kimberley HAYES | Heat protection garment and methods of use thereof |
US20230309632A1 (en) * | 2022-03-29 | 2023-10-05 | Glenn Fudge | Cheek Muffs |
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US8438666B2 (en) | 2000-04-05 | 2013-05-14 | 180S, Inc. | Ear warmer with adjustability |
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US7650649B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2010-01-26 | 180S, Inc. | Ear warmer having an external frame |
US9259355B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2016-02-16 | 180S, Inc. | Ear warmer with fabric member |
US10111781B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2018-10-30 | 180S, Inc. | Ear warmer with a substantially continuous surface |
US8443466B2 (en) | 2007-01-22 | 2013-05-21 | 180S, Inc. | Ear protection device |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2005020625A3 (en) | 2006-02-23 |
CA2535441A1 (en) | 2005-03-03 |
US20050034217A1 (en) | 2005-02-17 |
US7222373B2 (en) | 2007-05-29 |
WO2005020625A2 (en) | 2005-03-03 |
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