SPORTS MOUTHGUARD AND MOUTHGUARD CONNECTOR

Abstract

A mouthguard includes a curved member that is receivable within the mouth of a user, a connector that is engageable with the curved member or affixed to the curved member, and a retaining device that is coupled to the connector and is affixable to an item worn by the user. Ther retaining device includes mating fasteners that are situated on the connector and that are engageable with one another. A mouthguard holder includes an elongated member having a slot or opening into which a mouthguard is received and a retaining device that is coupled to the elongated member. The retention device includes a clip or fasteners that are coupled to the elongated member. The clip is affixable to an item worn by the user.

Claims

1. A mouthguard, which comprises: a curved member that is configured to be at least partially receivable within the mouth of a user; a connector, the connector being one of selectively engageable with the curved member and affixed to the curved member; and retaining means for selectively affixing the connector to an item worn by the user.

2. A mouthguard as defined by claim 1, wherein: the retaining means is a retaining device that is coupled to the connector; wherein the retaining device includes mating fasteners, each mating fastener of the mating fasteners being at least one of affixed to the connector, embedded within the connector and affixable to the item worn by the user.

3. A mouthguard as defined by claim 2, wherein: the connector includes a first axial end and an oppositely disposed second axial end; and wherein the mating fasteners include at least a first fastener and a second fastener, the first fastener and the second fastener being engageable with one another, the first fastener being one of affixed to the connector, embedded within the connector and affixable to the item worn by the user, the second fastener being one of affixed to the connector, embedded within the connector and affixable to the item worn by the user.

4. A mouthguard as defined by claim 2, wherein: the connector includes a first axial end and an oppositely disposed second axial end; and wherein the mating fasteners include at least a first magnet and a second magnet, the first magnet and the second magnet being magnetically attractable to one another, the first magnet being one of affixed to the connector and embedded within the connector, the second magnet being one of affixed to the connector and embedded within the connector, the first magnet and the second magnet being separated from one another along the axial length of the connector.

5. A mouthguard as defined by claim 2, wherein: the connector includes a first axial end and an oppositely disposed second axial end; and wherein the mating fasteners include at least one hook fastener and at least one loop fastener, the hook fastener being one of affixed to the connector and embedded within the connector, the loop fastener being one of affixed to the connector and embedded within the connector, the hook fastener and the loop fastener being separated from one another along the axial length of the connector.

6. A mouthguard as defined by claim 2, wherein: the connector includes a first axial end and an oppositely disposed second axial end; and wherein the mating fasteners include at least one hook fastener and at least one loop fastener, the hook fastener being one of affixed to the connector, embedded within the connector and affixable to the item worn by the user, the loop fastener being one of affixed to the connector, embedded within the connector and affixable to the item worn by the user.

7. A mouthguard as defined by claim 1, wherein: the retaining means is a retaining device that is coupled to the connector; wherein the retaining device is formed as a clip, the clip being selectively affixable to the item worn by the user.

8. A mouthguard as defined by claim 7, wherein: the clip includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the first clamping member and the second clamping member being hingedly connected to one another, the first clamping member and the second clamping member defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device and the connector coupled thereto to the item worn by the user.

9. A mouthguard as defined by claim 8, wherein: the clip further includes at least one spring interposed between and in engagement with the first clamping member and the second clamping member, wherein at least the first clamping member is biased inwardly towards the second clamping member by the spring.

10. A mouthguard as defined by claim 7, wherein: the clip includes a first resilient clamping member and an oppositely disposed second resilient clamping member, the first resilient clamping member and the second resilient clamping member defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device and the connector coupled thereto to the item worn by the user.

11. A mouthguard as defined by claim 7, wherein the connector includes a surface; and wherein the clip includes a resilient clamping member, the resilient clamping member and the surface of the connector defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device and the connector coupled thereto to the item worn by the user.

12. A mouthguard as defined by claim 1, wherein: the curved member and the connector are integrally formed as a single component.

13. A mouthguard holder for securing a mouthguard to an item worn by a user, which comprises: an elongated member having a first axial end, a second axial end disposed opposite to the first axial end, a top surface and a bottom surface disposed opposite to the top surface; and retaining means for selectively affixing the elongated member to the item worn by the user; wherein the elongated member is selectively engageable with the mouthguard.

14. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 13, wherein: the retaining means is a retaining device that is coupled to the elongated member; and wherein the retaining device includes mating fasteners, each mating fastener of the mating fasteners being at least one of affixed to the elongated member, embedded within the elongated member and affixable to the item worn by the user.

15. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 14, wherein: the mating fasteners include at least a first fastener and a second fastener, the first fastener and the second fastener being engageable with one another, the first fastener being one of affixed to the elongated member, embedded within the elongated member and affixable to the item worn by the user, the second fastener being one of affixed to the elongated member, embedded within the elongated member and affixable to the item worn by the user.

16. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 14, wherein: the mating fasteners include at least a first magnet and a second magnet, the first magnet and the second magnet being magnetically attractable to one another, the first magnet being one of affixed to the elongated member and embedded within the elongated member, the second magnet being one of affixed to the elongated member and embedded within the elongated member, the first magnet and the second magnet being separated from one another along the axial length of the elongated member.

17. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 14, wherein: the mating fasteners include at least one hook fastener and at least one loop fastener, the hook fastener being one of affixed to the elongated member and embedded within the elongated member, the loop fastener being one of affixed to the elongated member and embedded within the elongated member, the hook fastener and the loop fastener being separated from one another along the axial length of the elongated member.

18. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 14, wherein: the mating fasteners include at least one hook fastener and at least one loop fastener, the hook fastener being one of affixed to the elongated member, embedded within the elongated member and affixable to the item worn by the user, the loop fastener being one of affixed to the elongated member, embedded within the elongated member and affixable to the item worn by the user.

19. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 13, wherein: the retaining means is a retaining device that is coupled to the elongated member; and wherein the retaining device is formed as a clip, the clip being selectively affixable to the item worn by the user.

20. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 19, wherein: the clip includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the first clamping member and the second clamping member being hingedly connected to one another, the first clamping member and the second clamping member defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device and the elongated member coupled thereto to the item worn by the user.

21. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 20, wherein: the clip further includes at least one spring interposed between and in engagement with the first clamping member and the second clamping member, wherein at least the first clamping member is biased inwardly towards the second clamping member by the spring.

22. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 20, wherein: a portion of the first clamping member is coupled to the first axal end of the elongated member and a portion of the second clamping member is coupled to the second axial end of the elongated member.

23. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 19, wherein: the clip includes a first resilient clamping member and an oppositely disposed second resilient clamping member, the first resilient clamping member and the second resilient clamping member defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device and the elongated member coupled thereto to the item worn by the user.

24. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 19, wherein: the clip includes a resilient clamping member, the resilient clamping member and the top surface of the elongated member defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device and the elongated member coupled thereto to the item worn by the user.

25. A mouthguard holder as defined by claim 13, wherein: the elongated member includes an opening formed therein that extends between and through the top surface and the bottom surface thereof, the opening being configured to receive at least a portion of the mouthguard.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with one form of the present invention, shown inserted in the mouth of a user.

[0016] FIG. 2 is an exploded, top perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with one form of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with one form of the present invention, taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 2, and illustrating the press fitting receptacle of the U-shaped body and the press fitting of the connector.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with another form of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 5 is an exploded, top perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with another form of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 6 is an exploded, top perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with yet another form of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 7 is an exploded, side perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with another form of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 8 is an exploded, top perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with yet another form of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the sports mouthguard shown in FIG. 8.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the sports mouthguard shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, showing the sports mouthguard attached to an article of clothing.

[0025] FIG. 11 is an exploded, top perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with yet another form of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of the sports mouthguard shown in FIG. 11.

[0027] FIG. 13 is front perspective view of a sports mouthguard formed in accordance with another form of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 14 is an exploded, top perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with yet another form of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of the sports mouthguard shown in FIG. 14.

[0030] FIG. 16 is an exploded, top perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with yet another form of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of the sports mouthguard shown in FIG. 16.

[0032] FIG. 18 is a side perspective view of a sports mouthguard constructed in accordance with yet another form of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of the U-shaped body of the sports mouthguard formed in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0034] Initially referencing FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings, the mouthguard 2 of the present invention includes a U-shaped body 4 that is at least partially receivable within the mouth of an athlete, a connector 6 and a retaining device 8 that is affixable to a clothing item 10 or a piece of equipment. The U-shaped body 4, connector 6 and the retaining device 8 may be integrally formed as a single component or may be formed as two or more separate components. Various manufacturing processes can be used to form the mouthguard 2 and the components thereof, such as 3D printing, injection molding, pour molding and machining, as well as by combinations of the aforementioned processes.

[0035] The U-shaped body 4 includes a top surface 12 and a bottom surface 14 disposed opposite the top surface 12. An outer sidewall 16 and an inner sidewall 18 spaced apart from the outer sidewall 16 extend outwardly from the top surface 12 at least partially along the length of the U-shaped body 4. The outer sidewall 16 and the inner sidewall 18 define a channel 20 therebetween into which the teeth of the maxilla (upper jaw) are at least partially received when the U-shaped body 4 is situated within the oral cavity. The height of the outer sidewall 16 and the inner sidewall 18, that is, the distance that they outwardly extend from the top surface 12, may vary about the periphery of the U-shaped body 4. For example, as can be seen in FIG. 19 of the drawings, the height of the outer sidewall 16 and, optionally, the inner sidewall 18 may be greater in proximity to a front side 22 of the U-shaped body 4 to cover and protect a user's incisors, which typically are longer than other teeth.

[0036] The U-shaped body 4 may formed of a variety of materials; however, the U-shaped body 4 is preferably manufactured from polypropylene or other bisphenol A (BPA) free compositions so that the U-shaped body 4 is safe and sanitary to use in the oral cavity of a user. The U-shaped body 4 may be shaped to generally conform to specific anatomy of a particular user. For example, the U-shaped body 4 may be heated in water so that it becomes partially manipulatable/deformable. The U-shaped body 4 may then be removed from the water and cooled. Once the U-shaped body 4 is sufficiently cooled, it can be safely inserted into the oral cavity of the user. The user then can bite down on the U-shaped body 4 and press the front side 22 inwardly. Concurrently therewith or subsequent thereto, negative pressure is applied by the user to the U-shaped body 4 by sucking as the user presses the edges 24 of the U-shaped body 4 inwardly. The U-shaped body 4, which now generally conforms to the specific anatomy of the user, is removed from the user's oral cavity and placed in ice water to set.

[0037] The connector 6 includes a first axial end 26 and an oppositely disposed second axial end 28. As will be described in greater detail in the forthcoming paragraphs, the first axial end 26 of the connector 6 is mechanically coupled to or selectively engageable with a portion of the front side 22 of the U-shaped body 4. Alternatively, as mentioned above, the U-shaped body 4 and the connector 6 may be integrally formed as a single component. The connector 6 may be formed of a variety of materials, such as silicone, polypropylene or other bisphenol A (BPA) free compositions, as well as paracord.

[0038] Now making reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 of the drawings, in one form, the connector 6 includes a press fitting 30 that is selectively engageable with a corresponding press fitting receptacle 32 formed in the U-shaped body 4. The press fitting 30 and the press fitting receptacle 32 may be selectively engaged and disengaged with one another to couple and decouple the connector 6 and the U-shaped body 4. More specifically, the press fitting 30 includes a shank 34 that extends outwardly from the first end 26 of the connector 6. A ball 36 is situated on a free end of the shank 34. The press fitting receptacle 32 is preferably formed as a bore 38 that extends at least partially through a portion of the U-shaped body 4. The bore 38 includes a first portion 40 that generally conforms to the shape of the shank 34 and a second portion 42 that generally conforms to the shape of the ball 36. Preferably, the press fitting receptacle 32 is formed in the front portion 22 of the U-shaped body 4 and extends inwardly through the outer sidewall 16 of the U-shaped body 4. To join the connector 6 to the U-shaped body 4, the press fitting 30 is pressed into the press fitting receptacle 32. The material forming the press fitting 30 and/or the press fitting receptacle 32 is deformable such that the ball portion 36 of the press fitting 30 may be pushed through the first portion 40 of the bore 38 into the second portion 42 of the bore 38, as can be seen in FIG. 3 of the drawings. After the press fitting 30 is inserted into the press fitting receptacle 32, the ball 36 is situated within the second portion 42 of the bore 38, thereby joining the connector 6 and the U-shaped body 4 until outward force is applied (e.g., by pulling) to the connector 6 to pull the ball 36 out of the second portion 42 of the bore 38 and through the first portion 40 of the bore 38.

[0039] Now making reference to FIGS. 2 and 4-6 of the drawings, in one embodiment of the present invention, the retaining device 8 is joined to the second axial end 28 of the connector 6. More specifically, the retaining device 8 may be formed as a clip or clamp 44, such as an alligator-type clip. The clip 44 preferably includes a first portion 46 and a second portion 48, the first portion 46 being joined to the second axial end 28 of the connector 6 and the second portion 48 being selectively engageable with an article of clothing 10 or sports equipment, as shown in FIG. 1 of the drawings.

[0040] For example, in one form, the clip 44 may include two hingedly connected clamping members 50 that are inwardly biased together by a spring 52. To engage the clip 44 with an article of clothing 10 or equipment, the user presses the clamping members 50 to overcome the bias of the spring 52 and separate the clamping ends 54 of the members 50 from one another so that the article of clothing 10 or equipment can be inserted therebetween. The user then releases the clamping members 50 so that the spring 52 biases the clamping ends 54 together against the article of clothing 10 or equipment.

[0041] In another form, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 of the drawings, the clip 44 may include two opposite resilient members 71, 73 that are outwardly biased from one another. Each resilient member includes a clamping member 51. To engage the clip 44 with an article of clothing 10 or equipment, the user presses the resilient members 71, 73 together to overcome their natural outward bias, which causes the clamping members 51 to spread apart from one another, thereby creating a space into which the article of clothing 10 or equipment can be inserted. The user then releases the resilient members 71, 73 so that they naturally bias outwardly (i.e., apart from one another), thereby causing the clamping members 51 to move towards one another and clamp the article of clothing 10 or equipment situated therebetween. As can also be seen in FIG. 6 of the drawings, in one form, the clip 44 may further include a bore 75 formed therethrough into which a correspondingly shaped press fitting 77 situated on the second axial end 28 of the connector 6 may be received to join the clip 44 to the connector 6. Alternatively, as can be seen in FIG. 7 of the drawings, the second axial end 28 of the connector 6 may include a bore 79 formed through the thickness thereof into which a correspondingly shaped press fitting 81 situated on the clip 44 may be received to join the clip 44 to the connector 6.

[0042] Referencing FIGS. 16 and 17 of the drawings, the clip or clamp 44 may also be formed as a pen clip 56. In this regard, the pen clip 56 include a resilient clamping member 58 having a first portion 60 that is joined to the second axial end 28 of the connector 6 and an oppositely disposed second portion 62. The second portion 62 of the pen clip 56 is naturally biased against the connector 6, but can be pulled outwardly, at least to a certain extent, by the user such that a portion of an article of clothing 10, such as the collar thereof, can be slid between the second portion 62 of the pen clip 56 and the surface 66 of the connector into a space 64 between the second portion 62 of the pen clip 56 and the surface 66 of the connector 6 in proximity to the second axial end 28 thereof. The second portion 62 of the pen clip 56 may also include a protrusion 68 that extends inwardly from a free end 70 thereof towards the surface 66 of the connector 6 in proximity to the second axial end 28 thereof such that, as the clothing item 10 is pulled or pushed against the protrusion 68, it causes the second portion 62 of the pen clip 56 to move away (i.e., move outwardly) from the surface 66 of the connector 6. The inward bias of the second portion 62 of the pen clip 56 towards surface 66 of the connector 6 holds the article of clothing 10 therebetween.

[0043] The clip or clamp 44 may be constructed in a variety of forms, as shown in FIGS. 1-7 of the drawings.

[0044] Making reference now to FIGS. 8 and 9 of the drawings, in another embodiment of the present invention, the retaining device 8 may include two or more magnets 72 that are joined to or embedded in the connector 6. More specifically, a first magnet 74 is situated in proximity to the second axial end 28 of the connector 6 and a second magnet 76 is situated on the connector 6 at a sufficient distance from the first magnet 74 such that a loop or bend 78 can be created with the connector 6. Preferably, the second magnet 76 is situated approximately in the middle of the connector 6; however, the locations of the magnets 74, 76 on the connector 6 may vary depending on the length of the connector 6. The first and second magnets 74, 76 preferably have opposite polarities such that the magnets 74, 76 exert an attractive force on one another. As can be seen in FIGS. 9 and 10 of the drawings, the portion of the connector 6 having the first magnet 74 is bent towards the portion of the connector 6 having the second magnet 76, thereby creating a space 80 into which a portion of an article of clothing 10, such as the collar thereof, may be inserted. The portion of the clothing 10 is inserted into the space 80 and the magnets 74, 76 are brought in proximity to one another such that the attractive forces between the magnets 74, 76 bias the magnets 74, 76 together, with the portion of the clothing item 10 situated therebetween. A piece of equipment may also be situated in the loop 78 of the connector 6 such that it is held therein when the magnets 74, 76 are biased together.

[0045] Now making reference to FIGS. 11 and 12 of the drawings, in another embodiment of the present invention, the retaining device 8 may be formed as a hook and loop type fastener 82, such as Velcro. More specifically, the hook and loop type fastener 82 preferably includes a first portion 84 comprising a hook-type Velcro fastener 86 and a second portion 88 comprising a loop-type Velcro fastener 90. One of the first portion 84 and the second portion 88 is joined to, for example, by adhesive or stitching, or embedded on, the connector 6 in proximity to the second axial end 28 thereof. The second portion 88 is joined to the connector 6 at a sufficient distance from the first portion 84 such that a loop or bend 92 can be created with the connector 6. Preferably, the second portion 88 is situated approximately in the middle of the connector 6; however, the locations of the first portion 84 and the second portion 88 on the connector 6 may vary depending on the length of the connector 6. The locations of the first portion 84 and the second portion 88 on the connector may also be reversed and still function the same.

[0046] As can also be seen in FIGS. 11 and 12 of the drawings, the portion of the connector 6 having the first portion 84 of the fastener 82 is bent towards the portion of the connector 6 having the second portion 88, thereby creating a space 94 into which a piece of equipment or a portion of a clothing item 10 (e.g., a belt loop or belt) may be inserted. The portion of the clothing 10 or equipment is inserted into the space 94 and the first and second portions 84, 88 are brought together and engaged with one another, with the portion of the clothing item 10 or equipment situated in the space 94 in the loop 92.

[0047] Alternatively, as can be seen in FIG. 13 of the drawings, one of the first portion 84 and the second portion 88 is joined to, for example, by adhesive or stitching, or embedded on, the connector 6 in proximity to the second axial end 28 thereof and the other portion is joined to an article of clothing 10 or piece of equipment. The portion of the hook and loop type fastener 82 joined to the connector 6 is engaged with the portion of the hook and loop type fastener 82 on the article of clothing 10 or equipment.

[0048] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the connector 6 may include a slot or opening 96 into which the U-shaped body 4 or a conventional mouthpiece may be selectively inserted or removed. More specifically, as can be seen in FIG. 7 of the drawings, in one form, a slot or opening 96 is formed in proximity to the first axial end 26 of the connector 6. The slot or opening 96 generally is dimensioned so that an axial end 98 of the U-shaped body 4 can be inserted at least partially therethrough, thereby holding the U-shaped body 4 therein when it is not in use. As described above, the retaining device 8, for example, a clip, clamp or magnet, may be used to join the second axial end 28 of the connector 6 to an article of clothing 10 or piece of equipment. The user may remove the U-shaped body 4 from the slot 96 and insert it into his or her oral cavity during activity, and then insert the U-shaped body 4 back into the slot 96 during periods of inactivity for storage.

[0049] In a further embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 18 of the drawings, the first and second axial ends 26, 28 of the connector 6 may be brought together to form a loop 108. A retention slot 100 is preferably formed in the connector 6, approximately halfway between the first axial end 26 and the second axial end 28, into which the U-shaped body 4 or a conventional mouthpiece may be inserted. A clip or clamp 44, as described above, may be joined to the first and second axial ends 26, 28 of the connector 6, and may also be affixed to an article of clothing 10, such as the collar of a jersey, or piece of equipment. Alternatively, two or more magnets 72 may be joined to or embedded in the connector 6. In this regard, a first magnet 102 may be joined to the connector 6 in proximity to the first axial end 26 thereof and a second magnet 104 having a polarity opposite to the polarity of the first magnet 102 may be joined to the connector 6 in proximity to the second axial end 28 thereof. The first axial end 26 of the connector 6 and the second axial end 28 of the connector 6 are bent towards one another, creating a space 106 into which a portion of an article of clothing 10, such as a collar, may be inserted. The portion of the clothing 10 is inserted into the space 106 and the magnets 102, 104 are brought in proximity to one another such that the attractive forces between the magnets 102, 104 bias the magnets 102, 104 together, with the portion of the clothing item 10 situated therebetween. A piece of equipment may also be situated in the loop 108 such that it is held therein when the magnets 102, 104 are biased together. The user may remove the U-shaped body 4 from the retention slot 100 and insert it into his or her oral cavity during activity, and then insert the U-shaped body 4 back into the slot 100 during periods of inactivity for storage.

[0050] Now making reference to FIGS. 14 and 15 of the drawings, in yet another embodiment of the present invention, the retention device 8 may be formed as a T-shaped connector 83 that is situated at the second axial end 28 of the connector. More specifically, the T-shaped connector 83 may be bent towards the surface 66 of the connector 6, thereby creating a loop that defines a space into which a piece of equipment or a portion of a clothing item 10 (e.g., a belt loop or belt) may be inserted. The portion of the clothing 10 or equipment is inserted into the space and the T-shaped connector 83 is engaged with a slot 85 formed through the thickness of the connector 6. For example, the T-shaped connector 83 may be twisted so that it fits through the slot 85. The T-shaped connector 83 is released once it is inserted through the slot 85 to maintain the loop and secure the clothing item 10 or equipment situated in the space therein. The T-shaped connector 83 may be disengaged from the slot 85 by twisting. Preferably, the connector 6 has a plurality of slots 85 formed therethrough.

[0051] During use, the user may insert the U-shaped body 4 into his or her oral cavity for protection. During periods of inactivity, the U-shaped body 4 is held by the connector 6, which is attached to an article of clothing 10 or a piece of equipment. Accordingly, the U-shaped body 4 is maintained on the user when not in use, minimizing the risk of contamination from the U- shaped body 4 falling on the ground and minimizing the risk of losing the U-shaped body 4.

[0052] In summary, the sports mouthguard 2 formed in accordance with the present invention minimizes the risks of contamination and the risks of loss associated with conventional mouthguards. In this regard, the U-shaped body 4, which is inserted into the oral cavity for protection during activity, is attached to the user via the connector 6 such that, during periods of inactivity, the U-shaped body 4 does not fall to the ground and is not lost. As mentioned above, in certain embodiments, the connector 6 may also be used to secure conventional mouthpieces during periods of inactivity to promote hygiene by minimizing contamination and to minimize loss. The sports mouthguard 2 formed in accordance with the present invention further promotes hygiene by minimizing contact between the user's hands and the U-shaped body 4, as, in certain embodiments, the user will not have to touch the actual U-shaped body 4 that has been in the user's oral cavity while playing.

[0053] The mouthguard 2 of the present invention will now be further described.

[0054] In a first embodiment of the present invention, a mouthguard 2 is disclosed herein. The mouthguard 2 in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention preferably comprises a curved member 4 that is configured to be at least partially receivable within the mouth of a user; a connector 6 that is preferably selectively engageable with the curved member 4 or affixed to the curved member 4; and retaining means 8 for selectively affixing the connector 6 to an item worn by the user.

[0055] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the retaining means 8 may be a retaining device 8 that is coupled to the connector 6. The retaining device 8 may include mating fasteners 72, 82, each mating fastener of the mating fasteners 72,82 may be at least one of affixed to the connector 6, embedded within the connector 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0056] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the connector 6 may include a first axial end 26 and an oppositely disposed second axial end 28. The mating fasteners 72, 82 may include at least a first fastener 74, 84 and a second fastener 76, 88, the first fastener 74, 84 and the second fastener 76, 88 preferably being engageable with one another, the first fastener 74, 84 may be one of affixed to the connector 6, embedded within the connector 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user, the second fastener 76, 88 may be one of affixed to the connector 6, embedded within the connector 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0057] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the connector 6 may include a first axial end 26 and an oppositely disposed second axial end 28. The mating fasteners 72 may include at least a first magnet 74 and a second magnet 76, the first magnet 74 and the second magnet 76 preferably being magnetically attractable to one another, the first magnet 74 may be one of affixed to the connector 6 and embedded within the connector 6, the second magnet 76 may be one of affixed to the connector 6 and embedded within the connector 6, the first magnet 74 and the second magnet 76 may be separated from one another along the axial length of the connector 6.

[0058] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the connector 6 may include a first axial end 26 and an oppositely disposed second axial end 28. The mating fasteners 82 may include at least one hook fastener 86 and at least one loop fastener 90, the hook fastener 86 may be one of affixed to the connector 6 and embedded within the connector 6, the loop fastener 90 may be one of affixed to the connector 6 and embedded within the connector 6, the hook fastener 86 and the loop fastener 90 may be separated from one another along the axial length of the connector 6.

[0059] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the connector 6 may include a first axial end 26 and an oppositely disposed second axial end 28. The mating fasteners 82 may include at least one hook fastener 86 and at least one loop fastener 90, the hook fastener 86 may be one of affixed to the connector 6, embedded within the connector 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user, the loop fastener 90 may be one of affixed to the connector 6, embedded within the connector 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0060] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the retaining means 8 may be a retaining device 8 that is coupled to the connector 6. The retaining device 8 may be formed as a clip 44, 56 that may be selectively affixable to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0061] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the clip 44 may include a first clamping member 50 and a second clamping member 50, the first clamping member 50 and the second clamping member 50 may be hingedly connected to one another, the first clamping member 50 and the second clamping member 50 defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item 10 worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device 8 and the connector 6 coupled thereto to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0062] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the clip 44 may further include at least one spring 52 interposed between and in engagement with the first clamping member 50 and the second clamping member 50, wherein at least the first clamping member 50 may be biased inwardly towards the second clamping member 50 by the spring 52.

[0063] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the clip 44 may include a first resilient clamping member 71 and an oppositely disposed second resilient clamping member 73, the first resilient clamping member 71 and the second resilient clamping member 73 defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item 10 worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device 8 and the connector 6 coupled thereto to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0064] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the connector 6 may include a surface 66. The clip 56 may include a resilient clamping member 58, the resilient clamping member 58 and the surface 66 of the connector 6 defining a space 64 therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item 10 worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device 8 and the connector 6 coupled thereto to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0065] In the first embodiment of the mouthguard 2 of the present invention described above, the curved member 4 and the connector 6 may be integrally formed as a single component.

[0066] The mouthguard holder 6 of the present invention will now be further described.

[0067] In a second embodiment of the present invention, a mouthguard holder 6 for securing a mouthguard 4 to an item 10 worn by a user is disclosed herein. The mouthguard holder 6 in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention may comprise an elongated member 6 having a first axial end 26, a second axial end 28 disposed opposite to the first axial end 26, a top surface 65 and a bottom surface 67 disposed opposite to the top surface 65; and retaining means 8 for selectively affixing the elongated member 6 to the item 10 worn by the user. The elongated member 6 preferably is selectively engageable with the mouthguard 4.

[0068] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the retaining means 8 may be a retaining device 8 that is coupled to the elongated member 6. The retaining device 8 may include mating fasteners 72, 82, each mating fastener of the mating fasteners 72, 82 may be at least one of affixed to the elongated member 6, embedded within the elongated member 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0069] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the mating fasteners 72, 82 may include at least a first fastener 74, 84 and a second fastener 76, 88, the first fastener 74, 84 and the second fastener 76, 88 may be engageable with one another, the first fastener 74, 84 may be one of affixed to the elongated member 6, embedded within the elongated member 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user, the second fastener 76, 88 may be one of affixed to the elongated member 6, embedded within the elongated member 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0070] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the mating fasteners 72 may include at least a first magnet 74 and a second magnet 76, the first magnet 74 and the second magnet 76 may be magnetically attractable to one another, the first magnet 74 may be one of affixed to the elongated member 6 and embedded within the elongated member 6, the second magnet 76 may be one of affixed to the elongated member 6 and embedded within the elongated member 6, the first magnet 74 and the second magnet 76 may be separated from one another along the axial length of the elongated member 6.

[0071] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the mating fasteners 82 may include at least one hook fastener 86 and at least one loop fastener 90, the hook fastener 86 may be one of affixed to the elongated member 6 and embedded within the elongated member 6, the loop fastener 90 may be one of affixed to the elongated member 6 and embedded within the elongated member 6, the hook fastener 86 and the loop fastener 90 may be separated from one another along the axial length of the elongated member 6.

[0072] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the mating fasteners 82 may include at least one hook fastener 86 and at least one loop fastener 90, the hook fastener 86 may be one of affixed to the elongated member 6, embedded within the elongated member 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user, the loop fastener 90 may be one of affixed to the elongated member 6, embedded within the elongated member 6 and affixable to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0073] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the retaining means 8 may be a retaining device 8 that is coupled to the elongated member 6. The retaining device 8 may be formed as a clip 44, 56, that may be selectively affixable to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0074] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the clip 44 may include a first clamping member 50 and a second clamping member 50, the first clamping member 50 and the second clamping member 50 may be hingedly connected to one another, the first clamping member 50 and the second clamping member 50 defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item 10 worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device 8 and the elongated member 6 coupled thereto to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0075] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the clip 44 may further include at least one spring 52 interposed between and in engagement with the first clamping member 50 and the second clamping member 50, wherein at least the first clamping member 50 may be biased inwardly towards the second clamping member 50 by the spring 52.

[0076] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, a portion of the first clamping member 50 may be coupled to the first axal end 26 of the elongated member 6 and a portion of the second clamping member 50 may be coupled to the second axial end 28 of the elongated member 6.

[0077] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the clip 44 may include a first resilient clamping member 71 and an oppositely disposed second resilient clamping member 73, the first resilient clamping member 71 and the second resilient clamping member 73 defining a space therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item 10 worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device 8 and the elongated member 6 coupled thereto to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0078] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the clip 56 may include a resilient clamping member 58, the resilient clamping member 58 and the top surface 65 of the elongated member 6 defining a space 64 therebetween for selectively receiving therein a portion of the item 10 worn by the user so as to removably affix the retaining device 8 and the elongated member 6 coupled thereto to the item 10 worn by the user.

[0079] In the second embodiment of the present invention described above, the elongated member 6 may include an opening 96, 100 formed therein that extends between and through the top surface 65 and the bottom surface 67 thereof, the opening 96, 100 preferably being configured to receive at least a portion of the mouthguard 4.

[0080] Although illustrative embodiments of the present invention have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various other changes and modifications may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.