INTERCHANGEABLE LENS GOGGLE ADAPTABLE TO PREVENT FOGGING
20180000648 · 2018-01-04
Assignee
Inventors
- DAVID C. MCCULLOCH (LAKE OSWEGO, OR, US)
- JACK C. CORNELIUS (LAKE OSWEGO, OR, US)
- VINCENT O'MALLEY (PORTLAND, OR, US)
- TOREN P.B. ORZECK (PORTLAND, OR, US)
Cpc classification
H05B3/84
ELECTRICITY
A61F9/025
HUMAN NECESSITIES
H05B3/06
ELECTRICITY
International classification
Abstract
Anti-fog, interchangeable-lens goggle adapted for use with a battery comprising: a body with a flexible posterior portion for engaging a user's face and an anterior portion; a lens having a resistive anti-fog element thereon, the lens adapted for engaging the anterior portion of the body; an engagement mechanism for releasably interconnecting the lens and the body; an interconnection mechanism preferably protected by a tortuous path electrical interconnection system and depending from the body adapted for detachably interconnecting the heating element of the lens and the battery, the interconnection means operable or integral with the engagement mechanism such that interconnecting the heating element of the lens with the battery also reinforces interconnecting of the lens with the semi-rigid anterior portion of the body; and a strap adapted for holding the goggle on one of a user's head and helmet.
Claims
1. An easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry comprising: a. a lens having a resistive heater thereon and having at least one electrical interconnection area thereon; b. a goggle body having at least one electrical interconnection area thereon and corresponding to the lens electrical interconnection area, said lens being adapted for repeated installation on said goggle body and said lens being adapted for repeated removal from said goggle body both without damaging either of said lens or said goggle body, said lens being interchangeable on said goggle body, c. an electrical system partially retained on said lens and partially retained in said goggle body, and wherein the lens electrical interconnection area interfaces with the goggle body electrical interconnection area while said lens is installed on said goggle body in order to prevent moisture from invading said electrical system through the electrical interconnection areas.
2. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 1, further comprising a lens frame around said lens, further comprising a wall formed defining the interconnection area around one of the electrical interconnection area of said lens and the interconnection area of said goggle body, further comprising a channel formed defining the interconnection area around another of the interconnection area of said lens and the interconnection area of said goggle body, wherein said wall is adapted for residing within said channel when said lens is installed on said body to provide a tortuous path between said wall and said channel preventing moisture access to said electrical system when said lens is installed on said goggle body.
3. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 2, wherein said electrical system further comprises a plurality of mating brush rings within the interconnection areas of and on said lens and said goggle body and adapted for making an electrical interconnection, said goggle body further comprising at least one post with a capped button switch thereon, said post and capped button switch adapted for residing within the interconnection area of said goggle body such that moisture is prevented from accessing said brush rings and said capped button switch as well as said electrical system when said lens is installed on said goggle body.
4. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 3, wherein said brush rings are D-shaped to facilitate easy interchangeability of said lens on said goggle body.
5. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 4, said lens and said lens frame combined having first and second ends, and said lens and lens frame combined defining a hole at each end of said lens and said lens frame combined, said goggle body further comprising corresponding first and second ends and a plurality of posts, one said post at each end of said goggle body corresponding with each of the first and second ends of said lens and said lens frame combined, wherein said lens and said lens frame combined are retained on said goggle body by placing the holes at each end of said lens and said lens frame combined over said plurality of posts residing within said interconnection areas and within the tortuous path defined by said wall and said channel.
6. An easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry comprising: a. a lens having first and second ends and a resistive heater thereon; b. a lens frame attached around the periphery of said lens and defining an interconnection area for said lens, one of said lens frame and said lens forming loops at each end of said lens, said lens and said lens frame combined forming an electrical interconnection area thereon; c. a goggle body having at least one electrical interconnection area thereon and corresponding to the lens electrical interconnection area, said lens and said lens frame being adapted for repeated installation on said goggle body and said lens being adapted for repeated removal from said goggle body both without damaging either of said lens and said lens frame, or said goggle body, said lens and said lens frame being interchangeable on said goggle body; d. an electrical system partially retained in said lens and said lens frame, said electrical system partially retained in said goggle body, and wherein the lens electrical interconnection area interfaces with the goggle body electrical interconnection area while said lens is installed on said goggle body in order to prevent moisture from invading said electrical system.
7. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 6, further comprising a wall formed defining the interconnection area around one of the electrical interconnection area of said lens and the interconnection area of said goggle body, further comprising a channel formed defining the interconnection area around another of the interconnection area of said lens and the interconnection area of said goggle body, wherein said wall is adapted for residing within said channel when said lens is installed on said body to provide a tortuous path between said wall and said channel preventing moisture access to said electrical system when said lens is installed on said goggle body.
8. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 7, wherein said electrical system further comprises a plurality of mating brush rings within the interconnection areas of and on said lens and said goggle body and adapted for making an electrical interconnection, said goggle body further comprising at last one post thereon, said electrical system further comprising a capped button switch on said post, said post and said capped button switch adapted for residing within the interconnection area of said goggle body such that moisture is prevented from accessing said electrical system when said lens is installed on said goggle body.
9. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 8, wherein said brush rings are D-shaped to facilitate easy interchangeability of said lens on said goggle body.
10. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 8, said lens and said lens frame combined having first and second ends, said lens and said lens frame combined defining a hole communicating through and at each end of said lens and said lens frame combined, said goggle body further comprising corresponding first and second ends and a plurality of posts, one said post at each end of said goggle body corresponding with each of the first and second ends of said lens and said lens frame combined, wherein said lens and said lens frame combined are retained on said goggle body by placing the holes at each end of said lens and said lens frame combined over said plurality of posts residing within said interconnection areas and within the tortuous path defined by said wall and said channel to prevent moisture from accessing said electrical system.
11. An easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and further adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry comprising: a. a lens having first and second ends and a resistive heater thereon; b. a lens frame having first and second ends corresponding with the first and second ends of said lens, said lens frame attached around the periphery of said lens and defining a plurality of interconnection areas, one interconnection area for each end of said lens, said lens frame and said lens combined forming a plurality of loops, one said loop at each end of said lens and said lens frame combined, said lens and said lens frame combined forming an electrical interconnection area thereon within each of said plurality of loops; c. a goggle body having first and second ends corresponding to the first and second ends of said lens and said lens frame combination, each end of said goggle body further comprising a post for engaging and interconnecting with each of said plurality of loops for engaging said lens with said goggle body, said lens and said lens frame combination being adapted for repeated installation on the posts of said goggle body and said lens and said lens frame combination being adapted for repeated removal from said goggle body each without damaging either of said lens and said lens frame, said goggle body, said lens and said lens frame combination being interchangeable on said goggle body; d. an electrical system partially retained in said lens and said lens frame, said electrical system also being partially retained in said goggle body, said electrical system further comprising a plurality of electrical interconnection areas, at least one electrical interconnection area on each end of said lens and said lens frame combination and on each end of said goggle body, said electrical interconnection areas of said electrical interconnection system further comprising two pairs of corresponding and mating brush rings, one brush ring for each end of each of said lens and said lens frame combination and each post of said goggle body, said electrical system further comprising at least one capped button switch member on one of said posts of said goggle body; and e. a tortuous path wall and recessed channel interface defined by said lens, said lens frame combination and said goggle body, said tortuous path wall and recessed channel interface surrounding said interconnection areas of said electrical system to prevent access of moisture to said electrical system.
12. The easily interchangeable lens goggle adaptable for heating of the lens to prevent fogging and adapted for preventing moisture from invading goggle and lens circuitry of claim 11, wherein said brush rings are D-shaped in cross section to facilitate easy interchangeability of said lens on said goggle body.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
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DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0092] Referring to
[0093] Used as an anti-fog goggle 100, the lens 104 of the goggle further comprises resistive-wire anti-fog means 112 that is connected to a water-proof power supply 114 via a power supply cable 116. Referring to
[0094] Body 102 comprises a posterior flexible portion 101, including foam or rubber-type materials for interfacing with the use's face as known in the art and an anterior more rigid, in effect semi-rigid, lightweight plastic, or other suitable material, portion 103 for interfacing with the lens 104. The posterior flexible portion 101 of the body 102 engages the user's face around the user's eyes and on the bridge of the user's nose, and the body 102 further comprises an anterior periphery around which is installed part of the engagement mechanism 106, whether it be the tongue part 409 of a tongue-and-groove engagement mechanism as shown in
[0095] Referring to
[0096] Referring now to
[0097] The primary difference between the goggle 100 of
[0098] Referring now to
[0099] Referring to
[0100] Referring more specifically to
[0101] Lens 104′ further comprises interconnection/engagement hooks, plates or indentations 410 adapted for allowing a positive electrical connection via interconnection mechanism 108, or other interconnection mechanism disclosed hereafter, to the power source 114 via power supply cable 116. Lens 104′ further comprises part of engagement mechanism 106, whether it be a tongue-and-groove type engagement mechanism, for example as shown at 407, 409 in
[0102] Referring more specifically now to
[0103] Referring more specifically now to
[0104] Referring now more specifically to
[0105] The goggle 100′ would be used as an anti-fog goggle, since the lens 104′ of the goggle 100′ further comprises resistive-film anti-fog means 112 that is connected to a water-proof power supply 114 via a power supply cable 116. The power supply 114 comprises the same elements and features as further described herein.
[0106] Unlike the goggle 100 shown in
[0107] The interconnection mechanism 108′ further serves to create an electrical connection between the resistive-film anti-fog means 112 within the composite lens 104′ (e.g., comprising a main polycarbonate lens and a protective inner polymer coating) and the power supply 114 upon interconnection of the lens 104′ and the body 102. Interconnection mechanism 108′ comprises metal hooks 410 mounted on first and second outer ends of the lens 104′. These hooks 410 differ somewhat from comparable indentations 111 in
[0108] In this way, the interconnection mechanism 108′ that is used to reinforce engagement of the lens 104′ by engagement mechanism 106, including groove 407 and tongue 409, also completes the above-described circuit, simultaneously with the reinforcement of the lens.
[0109] The tongue-and-groove engagement mechanism 409, 407 of the engagement mechanism 106, wherein the tongue 409 is shown depending from an anterior periphery portion 103 of the body 102, is shown with the tongue being formed onto or attached to the anterior periphery portion of the body as further described herein. The groove 407 of the tongue-and-groove engagement mechanism 106 is formed into the lens frame 117.
[0110] The strap 110 may comprise a conventional adjustable elastomeric strap that is stretchy, and yet resilient, so as to allow comfortable retention of the goggle 100′ on the user's head or a helmet 8 as shown in
[0111] Referring specifically to
[0112] Referring now to
[0113] The primary difference between goggle 100″ and goggles 100, 100′, is that goggle 100″ of
[0114] There is an interconnection mechanism for interconnection of wiring 112, or film 112′, with battery source 114 included with goggle 100″. The electrical interconnection for the anti-fog means 112, or other electrical needs such as a heads up display system, comprises the fact that the inner surface of groove 407 is metalized and connecting to the wiring 112, or film 112′, while the tongue 409 is also metalized, to allow an electrical connection between them and the battery 114 via wires 419 and 116.
[0115] Referring now to
[0116] Similar to goggles 100, 100′, 100″, with goggle 100′″ an electrical connection is simultaneously made between the resistive-wire 112, or alternatively resistive-film 112′, and a battery power source 114 housed in a waterproof case 119, having an on/off switch 118, remaining battery life switch 120 and battery life indicia 122, when the posterior portion of lens 104″ is installed on the anterior portion 103 of the body 102′.
[0117] Goggle 100″′ of
[0118] Referring now to
[0119] This embodiment of
[0120] Referring now to
[0121] The lens frame 470 defines a groove 474, that is at least partially metallized for electrical contact purposes, serving as part of a peripheral tongue-and-groove lens/body engagement member 480. The lens 476 is retained in the inner lens frame 470 and has placed thereon a resistive, anti-fog, heating element 482, such as a resistive-film heating element or resistive-wire heating element, the resistive heating element being electrically connected with the metalized groove 474 at 477. The goggle 468 further comprises an anterior, peripheral, semi-rigid to semi-flexible body member 484 having first and second ends and further comprising a peripheral tongue 486 that is at least partially metallized for electrical contact purposes, for engagement with the groove 474. The tongue 486 being electrically connected at 487 with a wire 488 through an end 465, 467 of the body member 484 to a battery 490 also housed within the body member. The goggle body member 484, lens frame 470 and lens 476 of goggle 468 are comprised of similar materials to those similar components described in connection with goggle 100. The lens 476 is held a distance from the user's eyes by the lens frame 470 so as to provide a shield to the eyes.
[0122] The battery 490 connection to the resistive element 482 has an on/off switch 492 carried on the body, and there is a battery test button 494 carried on the body, and a battery strength indicator 495 also carried on the body. Upon depressing the on/off switch 492, the battery strength indicator 495, and a heat, or power level, indicator 499, are shown and displayed preferably within the goggle 468 to the user of the goggle. Goggle 468 further comprises a strap 496 attached via connectors 463 to the ends 465, 467 of the body 484 for holding the goggle on the user's head or helmet. The peripheral tongue 486 and groove 474 clearance may optionally be of a fit that holds the peripheral tongue and groove slightly apart, as may be accomplished with a slight detent in the tongue and/or groove, so as to not make electrical contact between the resistive element 482 and the battery 490 until the user has placed the goggle on his or her head such that the strap 496 overcomes the optional spring bias or detent between the tongue and the groove. Alternatively, the tongue 486 and groove 474 clearance may be of a fit that biases the electrical contacts in each together regardless of whether the strap 496 is installed on a user's head. Of course, the goggle 468 may use a resistive wire or resistive film anti-fog means, or alternatively no anti-fog means, in the lens 476 thereof.
[0123] Referring now to
[0124] Goggle 500 further comprises a goggle peripheral body 512 preferably made of plastic that is semi-flexible, but resilient. On each end 511, 513 of the plastic body 512 is a post 514, 515, respectively, each post having a channel 516, 517, respectively, formed around the post and adapted to receive and retain the corresponding stretchy silicone loop/band 506, 508. While the goggle lens frame 502 may be made of plastic or silicone, the goggle body 512 and lens 504 of goggle 500 are comprised of similar materials to those described in connection with goggle 100. The lens 504 is adapted for engaging the semi-rigid anterior portion of the body 512 a distance from the user's eyes so as to provide a shield to the eyes.
[0125] The lens frame 502 further comprises a pair of contacts 526, 528, one contact at either end of the lens frame, and the goggle body 512 further comprises a pair of contacts 530, 532, one contact preferably being provided on an anterior portion of each post 514, 515. Depending from either end 511, 513 of the goggle body 512, the goggle 500 further comprises a silicone strap extension member 520, 522, respectively. Upon stretching the bands 506, 508 around their respective posts 514, 515, engagement of the lens frame 502 on the goggle body 512 is assured, and an electrical connection is made between the resistive-film anti-fog means 112′ and a battery 519 carried internally of the goggle body 512, or alternatively in the strap extension members 520, 522. The electrical connection is made via contacts 526, 528 on the lens frame 502 and contacts 530, 532 on the posts 514, 515, respectively, of the goggle body 512.
[0126] As with other embodiments of the goggle of the present invention, the goggle 500 further comprises a posterior foam rubber interface member 524 attached to a posterior portion of the goggle body 512, such as by gluing, providing a comfortable interface of the goggle 500 on a user's face, and a textile strap portion 507 for assisting with retention of the goggle on a user's head or helmet.
[0127] Goggle 500 further comprises a button 534, 536 on each end 511, 513, respectively, of the goggle body 512, preferably on posts 514, 515, respectively, for controlling on/off and heat level of the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, on the lens 504. Upon depressing the on/off button 534, heat source 519 is switched on. Alternatively, a battery-strength indicator (not shown), and a heat, or power level, indicator (not shown), may be displayed preferably within the goggle 500 to the user of the goggle. Depressing the on/off button 534 again turns off the heat, or more accurately reduces it to an extremely low power state. Depressing the button 536 adjusts the power level applied to the anti-fog means 112′, (or alternatively 112 not shown) and also causes the power level display 540 to indicate the level of power being applied to the anti-fog means. After a short time, preferably, the indicators 538 and 540 turn off so as to not unduly distract the user. The circuitry 588 also interconnects a standard USB or other power connector charging receptacle 575, the battery 519, logic for controlling power on/off, power level increase/decrease, power level indication, and battery level indication using electric light pipes, for example.
[0128] Referring now to
[0129] The anti-fog means 112′ on the lens 604 thus makes contact with the goggle body 612 via contacts 624, 626, 628, 630.
[0130] Electrical circuitry 688 like that shown in connection with
[0131] As with other embodiments of the goggle of the present invention, the goggle 600 further comprises a posterior foam rubber interface member 625 attached to a posterior portion of the goggle body 612, such as by gluing, providing a comfortable interface of the goggle 600 on a user's face. The goggle 600 also preferably comprises a textile strap portion 607. The goggle body 612 may also include vents 621 therein to assist with ventilation for removal of condensate and fogging, in case the battery 619 has died, or in the case of a lens 604 not having anti-fogging means 112′, or 112, thereon.
[0132] Goggle 600 further comprises a button 634, 636 on each end 611, 613, respectively, of the goggle body 612, for controlling on/off and heat level of the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, on the lens 604. Upon depressing the on/off button 634, the power source 619 is switched on (into the circuit), and a battery strength indicator 638 and a heat, or power level, indicator 640, are displayed preferably within the goggle 600 to the user of the goggle. Depressing the on/off button 634 again turns off the heat, or more accurately reduces it to an extremely low power state. Depressing of the button 636 adjusts the power level applied to the resistive-coating/film anti-fog means 112′, or alternatively resistive-wire anti-fog means 112 (not shown), and also causes the power level display 640 to indicate the level of power being applied to the anti-fog means. After a short time, preferably, the indicators 638 and 640 turn off so as to not unduly distract the user. The circuitry 688 also interconnects a preferably standard USB charging receptacle 675, the battery 619, logic for controlling power on/off, power level increase/decrease, power level indication, and battery level indication using electric light pipes, for example.
[0133] Referring now to
[0134] The anti-fog means 112′ on the lens is also held in place relative to the goggle body 712 by the pop-off face member 702, and the anti-fog means thus makes contact with the goggle body via contacts 724, 726, 728, 730.
[0135] Electrical circuitry like that shown in connection with
[0136] As with other embodiments of the goggle of the present invention, the goggle 700 further comprises a posterior foam rubber interface member 725 attached to a posterior portion of the goggle body 712, such as by gluing, providing a comfortable interface of the goggle 700 on a user's face. The goggle 700 also preferably comprises a textile strap portion 707.
[0137] Goggle 700 further comprises a button 734, 736 on each end 711, 713, respectively, of the goggle body 712, for controlling on/off and heat level of the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, on the lens 704. Upon depressing the on/off button 734, the battery 719 is switched on (i.e., into the circuit) to provide power to the resistive heating means 112′, a battery strength indicator 738, and a heat, or power level, indicator 740, are displayed preferably within the goggle 700 to the user of the goggle. Depressing the on/off button 734 again turns off the heat, or more accurately reduces it to an extremely low power state. Depressing of the button 736 adjusts the power level applied to the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, and also causes the power level display 740 to indicate the level of power being applied to the anti-fog means. After a short time, preferably, the indicators 738 and 740 turn off so as to not unduly distract the user. The circuitry 788 also interconnects a preferably standard USB charging receptacle 775, the battery 719, logic for controlling power on/off, power level increase/decrease, power level indication, and battery level indication using electric light pipes, for example.
[0138] Referring now to
[0139] Electrical circuitry similar to that shown in connection with
[0140] Goggle 800 further comprises a plurality of buttons 834, 836 on end 811 of the goggle body 812, for controlling on/off and heat level of the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, on the lens 804. Upon depressing the on/off button 834, a battery strength indicator 838, and a heat, or power level, indicator 840, are displayed preferably within the goggle 800 to the user of the goggle. Depressing of the button 836 adjusts the power level applied to the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, and also causes the power level display 840 to indicate the level of power being applied to the anti-fog means. After a short time, preferably, the indicators 838 and 840 turn off so as to not unduly distract the user. The circuitry 888 also interconnects a preferably standard USB charging receptacle 875, the battery 819, logic for controlling power on/off, power level increase/decrease, power level indication, and battery level indication using a series of electric light pipes, for example.
[0141] Referring now to
[0142] The pop-off lens frame 909 further comprises a plurality of attachment prongs 932 with finger depressions 933 for releasably engaging the pop-off lens frame with the attachment receptacles 905 on the goggle body 912 thus interconnecting the pop-off lens frame member and retained lens 904 and the goggle body with the lens being releasably held in place on the goggle body 912. Thus held in place by the attachment prongs 932 engaged in the attachment receptacles 905, the anti-fog means 112′ on the lens is enabled and reinforced in making contact with the goggle body via contacts 924, 926, 928, 930.
[0143] Goggle 900 further comprises a plurality of buttons 934, 936 on end 911, 913, respectively, of the goggle body 812, for controlling on/off and heat level of the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, on the lens 904. Upon depressing the on/off button 934, power to the anti-fog means 112′ is supplied by switching the battery into the circuit, a battery strength indicator 938, and a heat, or power level, indicator 940, are displayed preferably within the goggle 900 to the user of the goggle. Pressing the on/off button 934 again turns the battery off, or more accurately reduces it to a very low, negligible, power state. Depressing of the button 936 adjusts the power level applied to the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, and also causes the power level display 940 to indicate the level of power being applied to the anti-fog means. After a short time, preferably, the indicators 938 and 940 turn off so as to not unduly distract the user. Electrical circuitry 999 also interconnects a USB or other standard charging receptacle 975, the battery 919, logic for controlling power on/off, power level increase/decrease, power level indication, and battery level indication using a series of electric light pipes, for example.
[0144] The electrical circuitry 999 is similar to that shown in connection with
[0145] As with other embodiments of the goggle of the present invention, the goggle 900 further comprises a posterior foam rubber interface member 925 attached to a posterior portion of the goggle body 912, such as by gluing, providing a comfortable interface of the goggle 900 on a user's face. The goggle 900 also preferably comprises a textile strap portion 907.
[0146] Referring now to
[0147] Referring now to
[0148] The translational member 1003 preferably comprises an anterior face 1007 and a posterior face 1009. The anterior face 1007 is shaped so as to be adapted to receive a posterior peripheral surface area of the spherical outer lens 1001, and the posterior face 1009 is shaped so as to be adapted to receive an anterior peripheral surface area of the cylindrical inner lens 1005. The inner lens 1005 further comprises a posterior peripheral area structure or lip, similar to the tongue portion 486 of
[0149] Inner lens 1005 has either a resistive wire 112, or resistive film 112′ anti-fog means heating element thereon. On each end 1013, 1016 of the outer lens 1001 and transitional member 1003, there is a hole 1026, 1028, each formed by a loop, or band, 1006, 1008 of resilient, semi-rigid to rigid, lens and/or transitional member/gasket material at or near the end of lens 1001 and/or gasket 1003, serving as a portion of an interconnection mechanism 1017, 1019, for reinforcing engagement of the lens structure 1002 on the goggle frame 1012 and interconnecting the heating member 112, 112′ to a battery 1029 housed in the goggle frame 1012 or preferably in sealed housing portions 1113, 1115 attached to or integral with the frame. A circuit wire, not shown, passes through the goggle frame 1012 and interconnects the electronics and batteries contained in the circuit housing portions 1113, 1115. Loop/band interconnection mechanism 1006, 1008, 1017, 1019 preferably further comprises an extent portion 1010 at the furthest extent of the loop/band to facilitate easy grabbing, installation and removal of the loop/band interconnection mechanism from the goggle frame 1012. Preferably the loop/band interconnection mechanism 1006, 1008, 1017, 1019 comprises an integral extension of the same material forming the lens 1001 and transition member 1003, formed in laminate fashion together with the inner lens 1005 as well. It will be appreciated that the inner lens 1005 may or may not have such a loop/band interconnection mechanism 1006, 1008, 1017, 1019.
[0150] The peripheral body 1012 of the goggle 1000 is preferably made of plastic that is semi-flexible, but resilient, such as silicone, polycarbonate or other plastic and may be made by injection molding or machining At each end 1117, 1119 of the goggle frame 1012, there is provided a sealed, water-tight housing 1113, 1115, respectively, for retaining the electronics and batteries for the goggle 1000. The housings 1113, 1115 may either be separate components able to be retained within or attached on the frame 1012, or alternatively the housings may be an integral part of the frame. On each electronic and battery housing 1113, 1115 of the plastic body 1012, is a post 1014, 1015, respectively, each post having a channel 1116, 1117, respectively, formed around the post and adapted to receive and retain corresponding semi-rigid loop/bands 1006, 1008, respectively. Each post 1014, 1015 and an exterior portion of the housing 1113, 1115 comprising a seat area 1083, 1085 form part of the interconnection mechanism 1017, 1019. While the goggle lens frame 1012 may be made of semi-rigid plastic, the goggle body 1012 and lens 1001, 1005 of goggle 1000 are comprised of similar materials to those described in connection with goggle 100, whether they be polycarbonate plastic or rigid silicone. The lens 1001, 1005 is adapted for engaging the semi-rigid anterior portion of the body 1012 a distance from the user's eyes so as to provide a shield to the eyes.
[0151] The lens structure 1002 further comprises a plurality of contacts 1151, 1153, preferably interconnected by a wire 1155, the contacts 1151, 1153 preferably forming at least a pair, or plurality of contacts, located at either end of the lens frame, preferably on the inner upper and lower surfaces of each of the loop/bands 1006, 1008. Further, the goggle body 1012 preferably comprises a plurality of corresponding contacts 1126, 1128, preferably a pair located at upper and lower corresponding locations on posts 1014, 1015. The contacts 1151, 1153 within the loop/bands 1006, 1008 are preferably comprised of coils 1151, 1153 on upper and lower portions of each loop band 1006, 1008, respectively, and these correspond to contacts 1126, 1128 on posts 1014, 1015. A circuit wire 1187 (see
[0152] Depending from each end 1017, 1019 of the goggle body 1012, the goggle 1000 further comprises a rubber or silicone strap extension member/wing 1121, 1123, respectively for providing alternatively proper fit of the goggle on a user's head with, or without, a helmet. When a helmet is preferably worn, for safety reasons to prevent serious injury or death while participating in winter sport or other activities, the extension members/wings 1121, 1123 fan or otherwise extend outwardly to allow reduced tension of the strap 110 as it extends transversely of the goggle frame and around to accommodate the greater width of the sides of a helmet.
[0153] Preferably, the frame 1012 of the goggle 1000 is of a durometer and flexibility to allow slight flexing of the frame, and the composite lens structure 1002, or alternatively lenses 1001′ 1001″, are of a flexibility that allow slight flexion to permit installation onto the posts 1014, 1015 such that the rings or loops comprising interconnection mechanism 1006, 1008, 1017, 1019 serve to attach to the posts.
[0154] Upon flexing the bands/loops 1006, 1008 around their respective posts 1014, 1015, engagement of the lens frame 1002, or alternatively 1001′, 1001″, on the goggle body 1012 is assured, and an electrical connection is made between the resistive-film anti-fog means 112′ and batteries 1019 carried internally of the goggle body 1012, as in housings 1113, 1115, or alternatively on the strap 110 or carried in the users' clothing. The electrical connection is made simultaneously upon installation of the lens frame 1002 on the goggle body 1012 via contacts 1151, 1153 on the loop/bands 1006, 1008 and contacts 1126, 1128 on the posts 1014, 1015, respectively, of the housings 1113, 1115 of the goggle body 1012. Also, simultaneously upon installation, or conversely simultaneously upon removal, as the lens frame 1002 is engaged on the goggle frame 1012, with the posterior peripheral tongue-like area 1009 of the inner cylindrical lens 1005 engaging the groove-like area 1111 of the frame 1012, or conversely is so disengaged upon removal, the user is thus enabled to easily interchange lenses on the slopes from one lens type to another. For example, this feature may employed to change from a clear lens used on a cloudy day to a tinted lens when the sun comes out.
[0155] Traditional vents 1175, as well as foam vent covers 1176, are also preferably provided to help conserve battery life, in the event of complete discharge of batteries or in the event a non-heated lens is employed with the goggle 1000.
[0156] As with other embodiments of the goggle of the present invention, the goggle 1000 further comprises a posterior foam rubber interface member 1024 attached to a posterior portion of the goggle body 1012, such as by gluing, providing a comfortable interface of the goggle 1000 on a user's face, and a textile strap portion 110 for assisting with retention of the goggle on a user's head or helmet.
[0157] Goggle 1000 further comprises a button 1034, 1036 on each end 1011, 1013, respectively, of the housings 1113, 1115 of, or on, the goggle body 1012, preferably on posts 1014, 1015, respectively, for controlling on/off and heat level of the anti-fog means 112, or 112′, on the lens 1005. Upon depressing the on/off button 1034, heat source 1019 is switched on. Alternatively, a battery-strength indicator (not shown), and a heat, or power level, indicator (not shown), similar to those described in connection with another embodiment hereof, may be displayed preferably within the goggle 1000 to the user of the goggle. Light pipes, not shown may be used internal of each button 1034, 1036 to glow within the button to give visual cues to the user and others that the goggle is powered on and working. Depressing the on/off button 1034 again turns off the heat, or more accurately reduces it to an extremely low power state. Depressing the button 1036 adjusts the power level applied to the anti-fog means 112′, (or alternatively 112 not shown) and also causes the power level display to indicate the level of power being applied to the anti-fog means. After a short time, preferably, the indicators turn off so as to not unduly distract the user. The circuitry of the goggle, similar to other embodiments disclosed herein, also interconnects a standard USB or other power connector charging receptacle 1085, the battery 1019, logic for controlling power on/off, power level increase/decrease, power level indication, and battery level indication using electric light pipes, for example.
[0158] Referring now to
[0159] Referring now to
[0160] Contact 660 is positioned so as to make electrical contact with contact 662, which in turn is connected through the wire 419 embedded in body 670 and wire 116 leading out of the body through optional plug 663 and into the battery 114 via the strap 110. When a user wishes to change lens 652, he or she simply peels the lens off and replaces it with another lens, thus easily engaging the lens 652 with the body 670, the user thus automatically and simultaneously making the described electrical connection for the purpose of heating the goggle lens 652 with heating element 654 to provide anti-fogging capability.
[0161] Referring to
[0162] In accordance with this aspect and embodiment of the invention, preferably the lens frame 1200a is provided with a plurality of capped, concave, connecting brush, or multi-contact, brush rings 1214, preferably one such ring on a back, or posterior, surface 1211 of and at each end 1213, 1215 of the lens frame 1200a, each such multi-contact, or brush, ring 1214 covered and sealed with a rubberized silicone cap 1216 facing anteriorly of the lens frame 1200a, to allow depressing of a button switch 1218 beneath the cap in an installed position when the two halves of the goggle, lens frame 1200a, and goggle body 1200b, are snapped together to form a complete goggle similarly as shown and described in connection with goggle 800, for example, in
[0163] The tortuous interconnection button switch system 1201a, 1201b of this aspect of the invention further comprises a corresponding button switch 1218 and/or post 1220 combination, preferably on the anterior, front, side 1222 of each end 1224, 1226 of the goggle body 1200b, and in corresponding locations to allow easy interconnection of the goggle lens frame brush rings 1214 and the goggle body button switch 1218 and/or post 1220 combination. As suggested by its name, this portion of the system may comprise just a post for facilitating electrical interconnection of the lens and the body of the goggle, or it may also preferably comprise a post 1220 and button/switch 1218 combination, preferably with the button inside of and presented at an upper top portion of the post 1220, for both facilitating interconnection of the lens frame 1200a and the body 1200b of the goggle 1200 as well as switching 1218 means for turning on and off the goggle and accessing other electronic capabilities and features of the goggle, such as power level display, remaining battery level display, increased power, decreased power, and/or a temporary boost of power via multi-function, multi-color diode 1228.
[0164] Preferably the capped brush rings 1214 and button/post combinations 1218, 1220 are essentially D-ring shaped to allow for easier installation, more secure retention, rigidity of the post 1220 and easier removal and interconnection/disconnection of the lens frame 1200a on the goggle body 1200b. Further, the preferably D-ring shaped rings 1214 of the lens frame contact comprise a plurality of contact surfaces 1217.
[0165] In accordance with this aspect of the invention, there is further provided a moisture and water resistant tortuous path 1230 provided in the form of preferably snap-, or snug-fit concentric ring-shaped wall and groove portions 1230a, 1230b combinations, preferably made of plastic, or other suitably semi-rigid material, one of each of the concentric ring combinations 1230a, 1230b being molded into, as a groove, or otherwise attached to, as a wall, corresponding back (posterior) surfaces 1211 of the lens frame 1200a encircling the capped brush rings 1214 mounted, molded or otherwise attached in the back side of the lens frame 1200a. The other portion, ringed wall 1230b, of each concentric ring-shaped wall and groove combination 1230a, 1230b is also preferably made of plastic, or other suitably semi-rigid material and is molded into, or otherwise attached to, or molded onto, the anterior, front, portion 1222 of the goggle body 1200b and encircling corresponding button 1218/post 1220 combinations mounted or otherwise attached to the anterior 1222, front, portion of the goggle body 1200b. In practice, one or the other of the concentric ring-shaped walls 1230a, 1230b of the concentric ring-shaped wall combination may be comprised of a corresponding indentation, or groove 1230a, molded into the material surrounding the contact part, e.g., 1214, to be protected. Thus, for example, a concentric wall 1230b, or externally protruding, male, tongue 1230b, may be formed around the button switch 1218/post 1220 and a corresponding trough 1230a, or indented, female, groove, may be formed around the capped brush rings 1214 as shown in
[0166] Preferably, the concentric ringed walls 1230b/grooves 1230a forming a tortuous path seal 1230 for the capped brush rings 1214 and post 1220/button 1218 switches, are also essentially D-ring shaped in cross section to allow for easier installation, more secure retention, and easier removal and interconnection/disconnection of the lens frame 1200a on the goggle body 1200b in a minimal number of steps and substantially simultaneously with the engagement of the lens frame 1200a on the goggle body 1200b. To facilitate this engagement of the lens frame 1200a on the body 1200b, as with previously described embodiments, the lens frame may comprise a tongue-like slightly protruding area 1236 around the periphery of the lens frame, and this tongue-like area 1236, or other mating surface, is designed to mate into a corresponding groove-like area 1238, or corresponding mating surface, around an inner periphery of the goggle body 1200b.
[0167] In accordance with this aspect of the invention, there may preferably also be provided a plurality of resiliently deformable hooks, protruding posts, or teeth, 1240 on either the posterior surface 1211 of the lens frame 1200a (or alternatively goggle body 1200b), to facilitate alignment of the lens frame with corresponding receptacles 1242 on the opposing goggle body 1200b (or alternatively lens frame 1200a), and to help align the capped brush ring 1214 receptacles, or concave portions 1218, with the protruding post/button switch portions 1218, 1220 of the electrical interconnection system 1201a, 1201b of this aspect of the invention.
[0168] In operation, this aspect of the invention allows for easy engagement and removable interconnection of the lens frame 1200a and the goggle body 1200b, together with easy and simultaneous interconnection of the lens heating element 1212 circuitry 1206, 1208, 1210 and the goggle body 1200b electronics circuitry 1210, 1211, 1229 in a single, or alternatively minimum, number of steps. Thus, a user may first engage, or snap, one D-ring of the brush rings 1214 on one end 1213 of the lens frame 1200a over a button 1218/post 1220 combination on an end 1226 of the goggle body 1200b, and then simply engage in sequence the next closest tooth 1240 in its corresponding receptacle 1242, following with each next tooth and corresponding receptacle in succession until the user reaches the D-ring of the other brush ring 1214 on the other end 1215 of the lens frame 1200a and caps, snaps or otherwise covers or installs that D-ring over the button 1218 and/or post 1220 at the other end 1224 of the goggle body 1200b. This, aspect of the invention in turn facilitates not only a water- and moisture proof seal 1230 to protect the interconnection circuit elements and goggle electronics, but also facilitates this in a system that is easy to interconnect and disconnect to allow interchangeability of lenses by a user in the field. As with other embodiments of the invention, this embodiment of a goggle in accordance with the invention also comprises sealed housings 1244, 1245 for otherwise housing the goggle electronics 1210, circuit board 1211 and batteries 1229. Also, as with other embodiments of the invention, at end 1224 of the goggle body portion 1200b, there is shown a USB charging port 1248 for recharging the batteries 1229.
[0169] Similar to other embodiments of the invention, each end 1224, 1226 of the goggle body 1200b comprises a plurality of receptacles 1246, 1247 to which studs may be installed which enable interconnection of each end of a strap 110 and a rubber or silicone strap extension member/wing 1121, 1123, as shown with other embodiments of the invention.
[0170] While a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects. For example, it will be appreciated that one of ordinary skill in the art may mix and match the various components of the various embodiments of the invention without departing from the true spirit of the invention as claimed. Thus, by way of example, it will be appreciated that a cap-and-ridge engagement mechanism may be interchanged with a tongue-and-groove engagement mechanism in any embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention. Further, interchanging lens colors or disclosed anti-fog capability with alternate embodiment body or lens frame would likewise not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention. The appended claims are therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.