Molded multi-component goggle outrigger

Abstract

A method of manufacturing eyewear having a pantoscopic system is described, wherein each pantoscopic includes a first segment (1600) coupled to a second segment (1700) at a fixed joint. Portions of the first segment can interlock or engage with complementary portions of the second segment, which can be achieved by interlocking shapes, secure frictional engagement, or by co-molding. The engaging portions of the first and second segments can include complementary shapes that interlock to secure the first and second segments together. The second segment can be molded over or around at least a portion of the first segment, or the first segment can be molded over or around at least a portion of the second segment, thereby securing the first and second segments together.

Description

[0001] Cross-references

[0002] The entire contents of the following applications and materials are combined herein for all purposes: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 956,014, filed December 31, 2019, and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 824,525, filed March 19, 2020. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for use with protective goggles. More specifically, the disclosed embodiments relate to structures for attaching goggle straps to goggle frames. Background Technology

[0004] Users wear sports goggles during various sports or activities, such as motorsports, power outdoor sports, snow sports, water sports, and cycling, to protect their eyes. Sports goggles are secured to the wearer's eyes via straps. During the activity, the goggles may receive impacts from stretching or otherwise applying tension to the straps. Furthermore, the wearer can remove the goggles by pulling on the frame, thus allowing them to be removed by stretching the straps. Therefore, the straps must be securely fastened to the goggle frame to prevent malfunction of the straps, frame, and / or the mechanisms connecting the straps and frame when the straps are stretched.

[0005] Furthermore, sports goggles can be bulky. Bulky goggles are heavy, which can lead to other adverse effects, make them more difficult to wear, reduce the wearer's field of vision, and / or make them more difficult to hold in other ways. Therefore, it is necessary to improve sports goggles. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides systems, apparatus, and methods related to molded multi-part goggle extension brackets.

[0007] In some examples, a method of manufacturing a sports goggle includes: forming a first segment of an extension bracket such that the end of the first segment includes a joint feature; and forming a second segment of the extension bracket onto the first segment by allowing molten material to flow to and contact the joint feature, thereby automatically forming a permanent joint between the first segment and the second segment.

[0008] In some examples, a method of manufacturing an athletic eyewear includes injection molding a first segment of an outrigger of the eyewear; and injection molding a second segment of the outrigger by flowing molten material to an end of the first segment and into contact with the end of the first segment, such that a fixed joint is automatically formed at a junction between the first segment and the second segment; wherein the first segment and the second segment are combined end-to-end to extend an overall length of the outrigger.

[0009] The features, functions, and advantages can be implemented independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure or can be combined in other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is an isometric side view of a first exemplary eyewear according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 is an isometric side view of a second exemplary eyewear according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3 is Figure 2 is an exploded view of various portions of the eyewear.

[0013] Figure 4 is Figure 2 is an isometric side view of an outrigger interface of the eyewear.

[0014] Figure 5 is Figure 1 is an exploded view of various portions of the outrigger of the eyewear.

[0015] Figure 6 is Figure 1 is a partial isometric side view of various portions of the eyewear.

[0016] Figure 7 is a front view of a strap and cage component for coupling to an eyewear frame according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 8 is Figure 7 is a rear view of the strap and cage component.

[0018] Figure 9 is Figure 1 is a top view of the eyewear.

[0019] Figure 10 is Figure 9 is a first cross-sectional view of the eyewear.

[0020] Figure 11 is Figure 9 is a second cross-sectional view of the eyewear.

[0021] Figure 12 is an isometric side view of a cage component according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 13 is a step flow diagram describing an exemplary method for manufacturing and using a Figure 1 or Figure 2 eyewear according to the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 14 is a step flow diagram describing an exemplary method for manufacturing and using a Figure 1 or Figure 2 eyewear according to the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 15 is a step flow diagram describing an exemplary method for manufacturing a Figure 2 eyewear according to the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 16 is a front view of an exemplary pair of first outrigger segments after a first forming step.

[0026] Figure 17 is a front view of an exemplary pair of first outrigger segments after a second forming step by adding a second segment to the first segment to complete the outrigger. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Aspects and embodiments of a formed multi-component eyewear outrigger and related systems and methods are described below and illustrated in the associated drawings. Unless otherwise specified, eyewear outriggers according to the present disclosure and / or various components thereof can include at least one of the structures, components, functions, and / or variations described, illustrated, and / or incorporated herein. Furthermore, unless specifically excluded, processes steps, structures, components, functions, and / or variations described, illustrated, and / or incorporated herein related to the present disclosure can include those that are interchangeable with other similar devices and methods, including those that are interchangeable between disclosed embodiments. The following description of various examples is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its applications, or uses. Additionally, the advantages described herein are merely exemplary and not all examples and embodiments necessarily provide all of the advantages described.

[0028] This DETAILED DESCRIPTION includes the following sections: (1) Definitions; (2) Overview; (3) Examples, Components, and Alternatives; (4) Advantages, Features, and Benefits; and (5) Conclusion. The Examples, Components, and Alternatives section is further divided into subsections, each of which is labeled accordingly.

[0029] Definitions

[0030] The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated.

[0031] “Include,” “includes,” and “including” are used interchangeably to mean comprising but not limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude, for example, additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0032] Terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are used to differentiate or identify one member of a group from another, and are not intended to signify order or numeric limitation.

[0033] “AKA” means “also known as,” and can be used to indicate alternative or corresponding terms for one or more given elements.

[0034] “Elongate” or “elongated” refers to an object or hole whose length is greater than its own width, although the width need not be uniform. For example, an elongate slot can be oval or stadium-shaped, and an elongate candle can have a height greater than its tapered diameter. As a contrasting example, a circular hole would not be considered an elongate hole.

[0035] “Coupled” means connected directly or indirectly to permanently or releasably.

[0036] “Resilient” describes a material or structure that is configured to respond to a routine service load (e.g., when compressed) by undergoing an elastic deformation, and to return to its original shape or position when the load is removed.

[0037] “Rigid” describes a material or structure that is configured to be hard, unyielding, or substantially lacking in flexibility under routine service conditions.

[0038] “Elastic” describes a material or structure that is configured to spontaneously return to its previous shape after being stretched or expanded.

[0039] Directional terms such as “upper,” “lower,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and the like should be understood in the context of the particular object being discussed. For example, an object can be oriented about defined X, Y, and Z axes. In these examples, the X-Y plane will be defined as horizontal, upward as the positive Z direction, and downward as the negative Z direction.

[0040] In the context of methods, “providing” can include receiving, obtaining, purchasing, making, generating, processing, pre-processing, and the like, such that the provided object or material is in a state and configuration in which further steps can be performed.

[0041] In this disclosure, one or more publications, patents, and / or patent applications can be incorporated by reference. However, such materials are incorporated only if the incorporated material does not contradict any statement or figure set forth herein. In the event of any such conflict, the present disclosure controls.

[0042] SUMMARY

[0043] Generally, eyewear according to the present disclosure can include a multi-component outrigger system coupled to each side (e.g., lateral end) of an eyewear frame. An elastic band of the eyewear can be coupled to the eyewear via the outrigger system and used to hold the eyewear to a wearer’s head. The outrigger system includes a pair of outriggers, each outrigger being a generally horseshoe- or C-shaped structure that extends outwardly from a side of the eyewear frame, thereby creating a gap between a middle portion of the outrigger and the rest of the frame. The outriggers of the present disclosure include a first segment and a second segment that are permanently secured together (e.g., end-to-end), such that the outrigger extends continuously from the first segment to the second segment. In some examples, the end-to-end first and second segments are combined to lengthen the overall length of the outrigger. In some examples, the first segment extends along and defines a first portion of the C-shaped arc, and the second segment extends along and defines the remaining portion of the C-shaped arc. In some examples, a junction between the first and second segments is disposed at or near a corner region (e.g., a lower corner) of the outrigger. The first segment can have a first material property, and the second segment can have a second material property that is different from the first material property. The first and second material properties can include any suitable distinguishing characteristic, such as a material type, a material color, a material texture, etc. It is noted, however, that any kind of combination of mere color is purely decorative in nature. The first and second segments can include complementary shapes that are used to secure the first and second segments together. The complementary shapes can create a secure frictional lock that secures the first and second segments together. The second segment can be molded over or inside the first segment, thereby permanently securing the first and second segments together, e.g., by mechanical and / or chemical bonding.

[0044] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of manufacturing eyewear can include forming a first segment of an outrigger and forming a second segment of the outrigger such that the second segment is joined (e.g., mechanically joined, chemically bonded, etc.) to at least a portion of the first segment, thereby securing the first segment and the second segment together. In some examples, forming the second segment to be joined to at least a portion of the first segment can include forming (e.g., injection molding) the second segment onto and / or inside the first segment, thereby mechanically and / or chemically locking the first segment and the second segment together. The various segments described above can be attached to the eyewear frame, for example, by a friction-fit protrusion and slot. In some examples, the first segment is formed as one piece with the eyewear frame. In some examples, the second segment is formed as one piece with the eyewear frame.

[0045] During this molding process, the first segment of the outrigger can be manufactured to include features for the complementary material flow of the second segment to flow into or over, to secure the second segment to the first segment. In some examples, these features include one or more protrusions, recesses, porosities, holes, channels, etc. In some embodiments, forming the second segment of the outrigger includes flowing the material of the second segment through, into, and / or around at least a portion of the first segment, thereby mechanically locking the first segment and the second segment together. The first material properties or qualities of the first segment can be different than the second material properties or qualities of the second segment. For example, the two segments can be different materials, have different material textures, hardnesses, surface finishes, colors, tenacities, and / or elasticities, etc.

[0046] According to another aspect of the disclosure, an eyewear can include an eyewear frame, a first outrigger coupled to a first end of the eyewear frame, a second outrigger coupled to a second end of the eyewear frame, an elastic strap, and a first cage component and a second cage component disposed at ends of the elastic strap. Each outrigger can include an opening or recess for removably receiving a cage component of the elastic strap. The first and second cage components can each include a strap opening and at least one protrusion disposed within the strap opening. The strap opening of the first cage component can receive a first end of the elastic strap. The strap opening of the second cage component can receive a second end of the elastic strap. The at least one protrusion of each of the first and second cage components can be coupled to the elastic strap to retain the elastic strap within the respective strap opening. In some examples, the cage components are molded onto the elastic strap, for example, by an overmolding process.

[0047] In some examples, the first and second cage members can each further include a first cage fastener opening, the elastic band can include a first band fastener opening, and the eyewear can further include a first fastener configured to pass through the first cage fastener opening and the first band fastener opening. In certain examples, the first and second cage members can each further include a second cage fastener opening, the elastic band can further include a second band fastener opening, and the eyewear can further include a second fastener configured to pass through the second cage fastener opening and the second band fastener opening. The first and second cage fastener openings can be disposed on opposite sides of the cage members, respectively. In some examples, the first and second fasteners can each include a removable fastener, such as a peg, a screw, and / or a pin, among others.

[0048] In some examples, the first and second cage members can each further include a stop, and the first and second outrigger members can each further include a recess disposed within the respective first and second outrigger opening for receiving the stop to retain the respective cage member within the respective outrigger opening.

[0049] In some examples, the eyewear can further include eyewear lenses disposed within the eyewear frame.

[0050] In some examples, the first and / or second cage members include a metallic material. In some examples, the at least one protrusion is shaped to retain the elastic band within the cage member, such as the protrusion can be triangular, pyramidal, jagged, staggered, or the like. In some examples, the at least one protrusion is a substantially triangular tooth. In some examples, the elastic band opening includes a substantially rectangular cross-section. The at least one protrusion can extend into the substantially rectangular cross-section.

[0051] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of manufacturing eyewear can include forming an eyewear frame, forming a first cage member, forming a second cage member, disposing the first cage member within a first outrigger opening, and disposing the second cage member within a second outrigger opening. In certain examples, the first and second outrigger members can be formed with (e.g., as one piece with) the eyewear frame. In some examples, the method can further include forming a first outrigger member, forming a second outrigger member, and coupling the first and second outrigger members to the eyewear frame. In certain embodiments, forming the first cage member can include disposing a first end of the elastic band within a band opening of the first cage member, and forming the second cage member can include disposing a second end of the elastic band within a band opening of the second cage member.

[0052] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of using eyewear can include receiving a force by an elastic band, stretching the elastic band by the force, and retaining a first end and a second end of the elastic band within respective band openings against the force.

[0053] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a cage component can be configured to be disposed within a portion of an eyewear frame. The cage component can include a cage component body disposed within an opening of the eyewear frame, a band opening disposed within the cage component body for receiving an elastic band, and a protrusion disposed within the band opening for coupling to the elastic band to secure it within the band opening.

[0054] In some examples, the cage component can further include a first cage fastener opening for receiving a first fastener. In certain embodiments, the cage component can further include a second cage fastener opening for receiving a second fastener, where the first and second cage fastener openings can be disposed on opposite sides of the cage component. In certain embodiments, the cage component body can include a stop for being disposed within a recess of the eyewear frame. In certain embodiments, the cage component body can be metallic, the protrusion can be a substantially triangular tooth, the band opening can include a substantially rectangular cross-section, and the protrusion can protrude into the substantially rectangular cross-section. In certain examples, the cage component body can include a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion.

[0055] According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of manufacturing a cage component can include forming a cage component body and forming a protrusion. In certain embodiments, the cage component body and the protrusion can be formed by machining a metallic stock. In certain further such examples, forming the cage component body can include forming the cage component body from a sheet of metal to define a band opening, and forming the protrusion can include bending the protrusion into the band opening. In certain further such embodiments, the cage component body and the protrusion can be formed by three-dimensional printing.

[0056] Examples, Components, and Alternatives

[0057] The following subsections describe selected aspects of example eyewear, and related systems and / or methods. The examples in these subsections are intended to be illustrative, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure. Each subsection can include one or more different embodiments or examples, and / or context or related information, functionality, and / or structure.

[0058] A. Example Eyewear

[0059] Described herein is an eyewear including a multi-component outrigger. The systems and methods described herein allow the outrigger of an eyewear to be formed from two or more elements or components that are secured together, such as a first segment and a second segment. Portions of the first segment can interlock or engage with complementary portions of the second segment, such as by interlocking shapes, secure frictional interlocks, molding, adhesion, and the like. The engaged portions of the first and second segments can include interlocking complementary shapes, whether permanent or otherwise, to secure the first and second segments together. The second segment can be molded over or around at least a portion of the first segment, or vice versa, to secure the first and second segments together. One segment can be formed with interlocking features such that subsequent material flow forming segments inside, over, or through the features mechanically engages and / or chemically bonds the segments together.

[0060] The elastic strap of the eyewear can be secured to each outrigger. For example, a cage component that is smaller in profile and provides a stronger coupling can be used to couple the elastic strap to the eyewear (e.g., to the outrigger or the eyewear frame). The outrigger includes an opening for receiving and retaining the cage component. The cage component can include a first opening for receiving the elastic strap and a protrusion disposed within the first opening, where the protrusion is for coupling to the elastic strap to retain the elastic strap within the first opening. The features of the cage component within the opening that the elastic strap is disposed within can help the cage component retain the elastic strap. Features external to the cage component can help attach the cage component to the eyewear frame and / or the opening of the outrigger.

[0061] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an eyewear according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 2 is a perspective view of an eyewear according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0062] Figure 1 An eyewear 100 is shown, including an eyewear frame 102, an eyewear lens 104, an outrigger 106, and an elastic strap 108. Figure 2 An eyewear 200 is shown, including an eyewear frame 202, an eyewear lens 204, an outrigger 206, and an elastic strap 208. Unless otherwise noted, Figure 2 The eyewear 200 of Figure 1 The eyewear 100 of is substantially similar to the eyewear 100 of Thus, to facilitate reference and brevity, similar descriptions of the eyewear 200 including the eyewear frame 202, the eyewear lens 204, the outrigger 206, and the elastic strap 208 can be omitted.

[0063] The eyewear frame 102 is used to receive the eyewear lens 104 within a hole of the eyewear frame. The eyewear frame 102 can be made of any suitable material, such as one or more of plastic, composite material, metal, or other materials. The eyewear frame 102 can be formed by, for example, molding, casting, machining, and / or coupling one or more of a plurality of elements together (e.g., gluing or mechanical fastening). The eyewear frame 202 of the eyewear 200 is similar to the eyewear frame 102 of the eyewear 100.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the eyewear lens 104 is configured to be selectively detached from the eyewear frame 102 to facilitate replacement of the eyewear lens 104. The eyewear lens 104 can include any suitable eyewear lens that allows a wearer to view objects located on the other side of the lens while protecting the wearer's eyes. The eyewear lens 204 can be substantially similar to the eyewear lens 104.

[0065] The elastic band 108 is coupled to the eyewear frame 102. For example, the elastic band 108 can be a strap used to hold the eyewear 100 on a wearer's face when in use. Thus, the elastic band 108 is used to be stretched to fit a wearer's head to allow the eyewear 100 to be placed on the wearer's head and / or removed from the wearer's head for other reasons. The length of the elastic band 108 can be adjustable to accommodate various head sizes. Further, as described herein, the elastic band 108 is coupled to one or more cage members, and the cage members are detachably coupled to the eyewear frame 102 and / or the outrigger 106. The elastic band 208 can be similar to the elastic band 108.

[0066] The eyewear frame 102 includes at least one outrigger 106 coupled to at least one end of the eyewear frame. The outrigger 106 can be an integral extension of the eyewear frame 102. In some examples, the outrigger 106, although separate from the eyewear frame 102, can be coupled to the eyewear frame 102. Thus, for example, the outrigger 106 can be formed to be separable from and couplable to (e.g., mechanically, adhesively, or by another technique) the eyewear frame 102. In some examples, the eyewear 100 includes a pair of outriggers disposed on two opposite lateral ends or sides of the eyewear frame. For example, a first outrigger 106A can be disposed on a first end 107A (e.g., a left side of the eyewear frame 102) of the eyewear frame 102; a second outrigger 106B can be disposed on a second end 107B (e.g., a right side of the eyewear frame 102) of the eyewear frame 102. As shown, the outriggers 106, 106A, 106B can be disposed annularly away from the eyewear frame 102, defining a space 109 between the outriggers 106, 106A, 106B and the eyewear frame 102. Although the outriggers 106, 106A, 106B can form a closed loop with the eyewear frame 102, other configurations are contemplated depending on the application. The outriggers 206 of the eyewear 200 can be substantially similar to the outriggers 106, 106A, 106B of the eyewear 100.

[0067] Each outrigger 106 is configured to attach an elastic band 108 to the eyewear frame 102. For example, the ends of the elastic band 108 can be secured to the first outrigger 106A and the second outrigger 106B. The elastic band 108 can be secured to the outriggers 106, 106A, 106B by a variety of configurations. For example, opposite ends of the elastic band 108 can be coupled to the first outrigger 106A and the second outrigger 106B. In some embodiments, the opposite ends of the elastic band 108 can be positioned at least partially within the space 109 between the outriggers 106 and the eyewear frame 102, thereby securing the elastic band 108 to the eyewear frame 102. In some embodiments, the opposite ends of the elastic band 108 can loop around the outriggers 106 and engage, adhere, or be bonded to the outriggers 106, form an interference fit with the outriggers 106 (e.g., by stitching provided at the ends of the elastic band), form a cooperative retention arrangement between the elastic band 108 and the outriggers 106, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, each outrigger 106 can include an opening that receives a corresponding cage member, as described below. The outriggers 206 of the eyewear 200 can be substantially similar to the outriggers 106, 106A, 106B of the eyewear 100.

[0068] Figure 3 An eyewear 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown Figure 2 exploded view of various portions of eyewear 200. Figure 4 illustrating eyewear 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 partial enlarged view of various portions of eyewear 200. See Figure 3 and Figure 4 Each outrigger 206 can include a number of configurations. For example, outrigger 206 can be integrally formed with eyewear frame 202, or, outrigger 206 can be a separate element that is coupled to eyewear frame 202. Each outrigger 206 can be formed from one or more elements or pieces, depending on the application. For example, as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 Each outrigger 206 can be formed from a plurality of components that are secured or formed together. Outriggers 106, 106A, 106B can be substantially identical to outriggers 206.

[0069] Each outrigger 206 can be a multi-piece outrigger assembly that includes at least a first segment 220 and a second segment 222 that are coupled or formed together. In some examples, first segment 220 and second segment 222 are secured or formed together by a mechanical joint. For example, a portion of first segment 220 can interlock or couple with a complementary portion of second segment 222, such as by interlocking shapes, secure frictional interlocks, and / or co-molding, over-molding, and two-shot molding, among others. For example, first segment 220 and second segment 222 can be secured together using dovetail or other joining techniques. In such examples, the joining portions of first segment 220 and second segment 222 can include interlocking complementary shapes, whether permanent or otherwise, that secure first segment 220 to second segment 222. In some examples, the shapes and / or material properties of the complementary portions of first segment 220 and second segment 222 can allow first segment 220 and second segment 222 to be permanently snapped or coupled together.

[0070] In some examples, the second segment 222 is molded onto or around at least a portion of the first segment 220, or the first segment 220 is molded onto or around at least a portion of the second segment 222, thereby permanently securing the first segment 220 and the second segment 222 together. In such examples, the segment that is formed first during the manufacturing process (e.g., the first segment 220) has interlocking features 224 such that the first segment 220 and the second segment 222 are mechanically joined together by the flow of material of the segment that is formed later during the manufacturing process (e.g., the second segment 222). For example, the first segment can include one or more protrusions, channels, recesses, holes, pores, and / or apertures 226, and during formation of the second segment, material of the second segment can flow into, around, and / or through the protrusions, channels, recesses, holes, pores, and / or apertures 226, thereby permanently joining the first segment 220 and the second segment 222 together. Such examples also facilitate attachment of the first segment 220 to the second segment 222 without causing stress within each segment.

[0071] In such examples, each outrigger 206 can be formed from the same or different materials to achieve a desired functional or aesthetic configuration. For example, the first segment 220 can be formed from a first material having first material properties; the second segment 222 can be formed from a second material having second material properties. The first material and the second material can be any suitable material. For example, the first segment 220 and / or the second segment 222 can be formed from polycarbonate, polyurethane (PU), polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate-ABS (PC-ABS), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), aluminum, titanium, a metallic material, and / or a rubber material, etc., or any combination thereof. In examples in which one or more outrigger segments include a metal, the outrigger can have a more slim profile than an outrigger that includes only polymeric materials.

[0072] The first material and the second material can be the same material or different materials. For example, the first material and the second material can both be a plastic material, the first material and the second material can both be a rubber material, or one of the first material and the second material can be a plastic material and the other can be a rubber material. Some example material combinations for the first material and the second material include, but are not limited to (material combinations listed as first material:second material): PC-ABS:PC-ABS, PC-ABS:TPE, TPE:PC-ABS, PC-ABS:TPU, TPU:PC-ABS, PU:PU, PU:TPE, TPE:PU, TPU:TPU, TPU:TPE, TPE:TPU, or TPE:TPE. Such material combinations are merely examples, and other material combinations are also contemplated.

[0073] The first material property can be any material property of the first material, such as a first color, strength, hand, texture, toughness, hardness, abrasion resistance, or other property of the first material. The second material property can be any material property of the second material, such as a second color, strength, hand, texture, toughness, hardness, abrasion resistance, or other property of the second material. The first material property can be the same as or different from the second material property. For example, the first and second materials can be different or similar in color, strength, hand, texture, abrasion resistance, or other material property. In some embodiments, the first material can have a first texture, and the second material can have a second texture. The first texture can be similar to or the same as the second texture, or the first texture can be different from the second texture, thereby providing a desired combination of textures of the first and second materials. Some possible combinations of textures of the first and second materials can include, but are not limited to (combinations of textures listed as first texture:second texture or second texture:first texture): smooth:smooth, rough:rough, wavy:wavy, uneven:uneven, ridged:ridged, smooth:rough, smooth:wavy, smooth:uneven, smooth:ridged, uneven:ridged, uneven:wavy, uneven:rough, rough:wavy, rough:ridged, wavy:ridged, first pattern:second pattern, etc. Such combinations of textures are exemplary only, and other combinations of textures are also contemplated.

[0074] In some examples, the first material can have a first color and the second material can have a second color, thereby providing a decorative appearance without the need for painting or other coloring methods. The first color can be similar or identical to the second color, or the first color can be different from the second color, to provide a color combination of the first material and the second material that is desirable depending on the application. The first color can be any shade of color, such as any shade of black, blue, brown, green, orange, red, white, yellow, cyan, gray, magenta, pink, purple, etc., or any combination thereof. The second color can be any shade of color, such as any shade of black, blue, brown, green, orange, red, white, yellow, cyan, gray, magenta, pink, purple, etc., or any combination thereof. Some possible color combinations of the first material and the second material include, but are not limited to (color combinations listed as first color: second color or second color: first color): black: black, blue: blue, green: green, orange: orange, red: red, white: white, yellow: yellow, cyan: cyan, gray: gray, purple: purple, black: gray, black: yellow, black: green, black: gold, blue: yellow, blue: red, red: orange, red: purple, white: black, white: blue, white: green, white: red, white: yellow, white: cyan, white: gray, white: purple, white: gold, gray: gold, cyan: green, or orange: brown, and any shade thereof. Such color combinations are merely exemplary, and other color combinations are also contemplated.

[0075] In this manner, the outrigger 206 can be customized for applications, uses, cost, aesthetic appeal, etc. For example, the characteristics of the outrigger for goggles used in snow sports can be different than the outrigger for goggles used in motorcycle sports. Likewise, the characteristics of the outrigger for goggles used in motocross can be different than the outrigger for goggles used in supercross, road racing, or casual riding. The characteristics of the outrigger for goggles used by a youth can be different than the outrigger for goggles used by an adult. In such embodiments, the material properties of the first segment 220 and / or the second segment 222 can be selected to adapt the goggles 200 to a particular application, sport, activity, or intended use.

[0076] Figure 5 An exploded view of various portions of a goggle according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown. Figure 1 An exploded view of various portions of a goggle according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown. Figure 5 An exploded view of various portions of a goggle according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown. Figure 1An exploded view of a goggle 100 including an extension bracket 106, an elastic band 108, and a cage-like component 110. Although the cage-like component 110 is described herein with reference to the extension bracket 106, in some embodiments, the goggle frame 102 may not include the extension bracket 106. In such embodiments, the cage-like component 110 described herein may be configured to be disposed within one or more openings in the goggle frame 102 itself. Therefore, the systems and techniques described herein are applicable to goggles without extension brackets, as well as goggles including extension brackets. Furthermore, Figures 5 to 14 As shown, and see Figures 5 to 14 The described cage-like component 110 can be Figures 2 to 4 This is used in the goggles 200. For example, the cage-like component 110 may be associated with the first segment 220 and / or the second segment 222, similar to those described below. Therefore, for ease of reference and brevity, the following is used... Figures 5 to 14 The description will only be found in [reference 1]. Figure 1 100 goggles.

[0077] like Figure 5 As shown, the elastic band 108 can be connected to the cage-like component 110. The cage-like component can be disposed within the opening 122 of the extender 106. Therefore, the elastic band 108 can be connected to the extender 106, and thereby connected to the goggle frame 102 via the cage-like component 110. This configuration allows for a stronger and more compact connection between the elastic band 108 and the extender 106 and / or the goggle frame 102.

[0078] The cage-like component 110 may comprise metal, or other materials that are more robust than those used for the goggle frame 102 and / or the extender 106 (e.g., the elastic modulus of the cage-like component 110 material may be higher than that of the goggle frame 102 and / or the extender 106 material). Therefore, attaching the elastic band 108 to the cage-like component 110 and then positioning the cage-like component 110 within the opening 114 allows for a stronger connection than typical techniques that involve directly attaching the elastic band to the goggle frame and / or the extender.

[0079] Additionally, the cage member 110 can be more compact (e.g., narrower) than typical couplings while maintaining or improving strength. A typical coupling between eyewear and an elastic band includes an interference fit between a bundle of stitched material disposed at an end of the elastic band and an opening disposed within the eyewear and / or outrigger. Additionally, a cage member including metal or a metal material can have a finer profile than a cage member including plastic, polymer, or the like. Accordingly, the outrigger 106 and / or the eyewear frame 102 can have a smaller size. Typically, the elastic band 108 is coupled to the sides of the eyewear 100 (e.g., disposed on the left and right sides of the wearer's face), so such a configuration can enable a more compact eyewear frame 102 and / or outrigger 106 that can improve the wearer's field of view.

[0080] The cage member 110 can include features for coupling to the elastic band 108 and / or to the outrigger 106. For example, the cage member 110 can include a cage member body 112. The cage member body 112 can include an opening 114. The opening 114 can be substantially rectangular in cross-section to receive the elastic band 108. The height and width of the opening 114 can be configured to accommodate the elastic band 108. Accordingly, the width of the opening 114 can be wider than the thickness of the elastic band 108. Correspondingly, the width of the opening 114 can also be wider than the width of the elastic band 108.

[0081] The cage member 110 can include features for retaining the elastic band 108 when the elastic band 108 is disposed within the opening 114. For example, the cage member 110 can include protrusions 116 that can help retain the elastic band 108 within the opening 114. For example, the protrusions 116 can be teeth, indentations, adhesives, bars, and / or other types of protrusions or features having a triangular, square, or other geometric shape that can help retain the elastic band 108 within the opening 114. The protrusions 116 can be disposed within all or a portion of the opening 114. Although Figure 5 The illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of triangular, tooth-like protrusions 116A-B, etc., but other embodiments can include protrusions and / or retention features of other geometric shapes, and / or can include more or fewer protrusions.

[0082] The elastic band 108 can also include one or more openings 126A and 126B. Various embodiments can include any number of such openings. The cage member can include corresponding openings 118A and 118B. The openings 118A and 118B can be configured to correspond with the openings 126A and 126B such that when the elastic band 108 is disposed within the opening 114, the opening 118A aligns with the opening 126A, the opening 118B aligns with the opening 126B, and so on. When the openings 126A and 126B are aligned with the openings 118A and 118B, respectively, a fastener can be disposed through each pair of openings, thereby facilitating the retention of the elastic band 108 within the opening 114 of the cage member 110. In some examples, the fastener can include a removable fastener, such as a pin, screw, bolt, cleat, and so on.

[0083] In some examples, the cage member 110 can include a first segment and a second segment, which can be formed as one member during a manufacturing process. In some examples, the first segment is formed and the elastic band 108 is placed such that the openings 118A and 118B correspond with the openings 126A and 126B, and the second segment is formed such that the shaped protrusions and / or fingers permanently couple the first and second segments to one another and to the elastic band. In some examples, the elastic band 108 is placed within a mold (e.g., between two halves of a mold), and the cage member 110 is formed (e.g., overmolded, co-molded, two-shot molded, and so on) such that the cage member encloses the end of the elastic band.

[0084] The cage member 110 can also include one or more detents 120 and other features disposed on the exterior of the cage member 110. These features can be used to interface with corresponding features 124 disposed within the opening 122. For example, the detents 120 can be one or more raised surfaces (e.g., protrusions) or recesses, fasteners, adhesives, or other features such that when the elastic band 108 is pulled, the detents 120 and the corresponding features 124 can form a mechanical interface (e.g., can include a contact wall) that retains the cage member 110 within the opening 122. In some examples, the detents 120 include springs and / or other biasing mechanisms such that a user can depress the detents 120 to flush the detents with the exterior surface of the cage member 110, and the detents 120 can return to a raised position without the user exerting pressure. The corresponding features 124 within the opening 122 can include recesses that correspond with the raised surfaces, raised surfaces that correspond with the recesses, and / or corresponding fasteners or features. Thus, the elastic band 108 can be more securely disposed within the opening 114.

[0085] Figure 6 A perspective view of a portion of a goggle in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of a goggle in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6A cage-like member 110 is shown disposed within an opening 122 of the extendable support 106. Thus, the cage-like member 110 is coupled to the elastic band 108 and disposed within the opening 122. The cage-like member 110 may be held within the opening 122 by feature 124 as described herein. The elastic band 108 may also be held accordingly within an opening 114.

[0086] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A view is shown of a strap and a cage-like component configured to be attached to a goggle frame according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 and Figure 8 An elastic band 108 is shown attached to a cage-like component 110. As shown, the cage-like component 110 includes openings 118A-E. The elastic band 108 may include corresponding openings (e.g., openings 126A-E; not shown in the figure). Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown in the text, but Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram). Openings 118A-E can be aligned with openings 126A-E, and fasteners 128A-E can be configured to pass through openings 118A-E and 126A-E. In this way, fasteners 128A-E can help retain the elastic band 108 within the opening 114 of the cage member 110.

[0087] In some examples, fasteners 128A-E may be rivets, mushroom caps, bolts and / or nuts, snaps, protrusions of the cage member 110, pins, adhesives, teeth, and / or other types of features used to further secure the elastic band 108 within the openings 114 of the cage member 110. In some such examples, the openings 118A-E may be substantially uniformly spaced (e.g., ±20% variance) on the cage member 110. Therefore, the distance between each opening 118A-E may be substantially similar. Furthermore, at least two openings 118A-E (e.g., openings 118A and 118B) may be provided on opposite sides of the cage member 110. Providing the openings in this manner allows stress (e.g., generated due to the pulling of the elastic band 108) to be distributed more evenly within the elastic band 108 and / or the various portions of the cage member 110, thereby further increasing strength.

[0088] Figure 8 Another embodiment of the cage-like component 110 can be shown. Figure 8Stop members 120A-E can be shown on the outer surface of cage member 110. For example, stop members 120A-E can be one or more raised surfaces (e.g., protrusions) or recesses, fasteners, adhesives, or other features for engaging corresponding features disposed within openings 122 of outrigger 106 and / or eyewear frame 102. Such corresponding features can include recesses corresponding to raised surfaces, raised surfaces corresponding to recesses, and / or corresponding fasteners or other features. Stop members 120A-E can allow cage member 110 to be more securely disposed within openings 114, thereby increasing the strength of the coupling of elastic band 108 to eyewear frame 102 and / or outrigger 106. In some examples, one or more stop members 120A-E can include a hook configured to engage a recess and / or indentation disposed within openings 122.

[0089] Figure 9 A top view of the eyewear is shown in FIG. 1. Figure 1 A top view of the eyewear is shown in FIG. 1. Figure 9 A top view of the eyewear is shown in FIG. 1. Figure 9 Planes 10-10 and 11-11 are shown. Figure 10 and Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the eyewear is shown in FIG. 2. Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the eyewear is shown in FIG. 2. Figure 10 The cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 is taken along plane 10-10. Figure 11 The cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 is taken along plane 11-11.

[0090] Figure 10 The cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 shows cage member 110 disposed within openings 122 of outrigger 106. As shown, the cross-sectional shape of cage member 110 can be substantially rectangular, and openings 122 can include a shape corresponding to the cross-section of cage member 110, thereby retaining cage member 110 within openings 122. Figure 10 The cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 further shows elastic band 108 disposed within openings 114 of cage member 110. When disposed within openings 114, protrusions 116A and 116B, as well as other protrusions shown, can pinch elastic band 108, thereby helping to retain elastic band 108 within openings 114. For example, the protrusions can extend into the sides of elastic band 108 to pinch elastic band 108.

[0091] Figure 11 The cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 shows stop members 120A-D of cage member 110 disposed within features 124A-D. Although certain embodiments of features 124A-D can be recesses within eyewear frame 102 and / or outrigger 106, in some examples, features 124A-D can be raised surfaces corresponding to stop members 120A-D. Figure 11The illustrated embodiment shows that features 124A-D can also be openings within the eyewear frame 102 and / or the outrigger 106. Stops 120A-D can be disposed within at least a portion of features 124A-D, respectively. Features 124A-D can include one or more surfaces to prevent the stops 120A-D (and the cage component 110) from moving in one or more directions when disposed within the features 124A-D. Certain embodiments can limit different directions of motion. Such directions can include directions that prevent the cage component 110 from moving rearward due to, for example, a pulling force exerted on the elastic band 108.

[0092] Further, as Figure 11 illustrated, the elastic band 108 can be coupled to the cage component 110 by fasteners 128A-E. Portions of the fasteners 128A-E can be disposed within openings 118A-E of the cage component 110 and openings 126A-E of the elastic band 108, thereby coupling the elastic band 108 to the cage component 110.

[0093] Figure 12 A perspective view of a cage component according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 12 An embodiment of a cage component 110 is shown. As Figure 12 illustrated, the cage component 110 can be made from a plurality of separate parts. That is, the cage component 110 can include cage component bodies 112A and 112B. For example, the cage component bodies 112A and 112B can each be manufactured from a folded sheet of metal, a stamped sheet of metal, a machined stock, a cast metal, a molded composite material, or other technique. In certain embodiments, the cage component bodies 112A and 112B can be made from different techniques. In some examples, the cage component bodies can be formed as one component (e.g., by co-molding, over-molding, etc.).

[0094] The separate cage component bodies 112A and 112B can then be coupled (e.g., frictionally, mechanically, adhesively, or by other techniques) together to form the cage component 110. For example, in certain embodiments, the elastic band 108 can be disposed between the cage component bodies 112A and 112B, which can then be coupled together accordingly to form the cage component 110. The cage component 110 can then be disposed within the opening 122.

[0095] B. Example method of manufacturing a cage portion of an eyewear outrigger

[0096] Referring to Figure 13This section describes steps of an example method 1300 of manufacturing a frame portion of an eyewear outrigger. Various aspects of the eyewear 100 or the eyewear 200 can be applied in the method steps described below. Where appropriate, reference can be made to components and systems that can be used to perform each step. These references are for illustration only and are not intended to limit the possible ways in which any particular step of the method can be performed.

[0097] Figure 13 The flowchart of FIG. 13 illustrates steps performed in an example method, and can not recite the entire process or all steps of the method. Although various steps of the method 1300 are described below, and depicted in Figure 13 FIG. 13, these steps need not necessarily all be performed, and in some cases these steps can be performed concurrently, or in a different order than shown.

[0098] Step 1302 of the method 1300 includes forming a cage member body of a cage member. In some embodiments, the cage member body can be a metallic cage member body. The cage member body can be formed by bending a sheet of metal (e.g., by performing one or more bending operations on a flat pattern), by machining from stock, by casting, molding, extruding, or in other suitable ways.

[0099] Step 1304 of the method 1300 includes forming an opening in the cage member body. In some embodiments, the opening can be formed when the cage member body is formed. Thus, for example, in embodiments in which the body is formed from a bent sheet of metal, the bending of the sheet of metal can correspondingly form the opening. Further, if the cage member body is cast, the cage member body and the opening can be formed together when the casting operation is performed. In other embodiments in which the opening is machined or cast, the opening can be formed in a separate operation. Thus, the opening can be machined into the cage member body, for example.

[0100] Step 1306 of the method 1300 includes forming a protrusion within the opening. For example, in embodiments in which the opening and / or the cage member body are formed from a bent sheet of metal, an additional portion of the flat pattern can be bent to form the protrusion. Alternatively, the opening and the protrusion can be machined together. In other embodiments, the protrusion can be formed as a separate component and disposed within the opening and coupled to the cage member body (e.g., by fasteners, adhesives, welding, or other techniques).

[0101] Step 1308 of the method 1300 includes embedding the elastic band in the opening to couple it to the cage component. In certain examples, embedding the elastic band in the opening includes holding the elastic band with the protrusion. In other embodiments, the elastic band can be inserted onto the flat shape, or the opening can be partially formed, first. The opening can then be formed around the elastic band. Thus, for example, the elastic band can be disposed within the partially formed opening, and then, for example, the remaining bending step can be performed to form the opening, completing the machining of the opening around the elastic band. In such examples, the protrusion can be formed (e.g., bent) before the opening is fully formed. Thus, when the opening is fully bent, the protrusion can hold the elastic band accordingly in a manner that traps it.

[0102] Step 1310 of the method 1300 includes coupling the cage component to the eyewear frame and / or outrigger. Thus, the cage component can be embedded in the opening of the eyewear frame and / or outrigger. The cage component can be held within the opening by an external feature of the cage component, and / or the opening of the eyewear frame and / or outrigger. In certain embodiments, coupling the cage component to the eyewear frame and / or outrigger can include applying an adhesive to the exterior of the cage component, and / or the opening of the eyewear frame and / or outrigger. Thus, for example, the opening and / or the cage component can include a compressible coating that is configured to deform when the cage component is disposed within the opening, thereby helping to further prevent the cage component from separating from the opening.

[0103] C. Example Method of Manufacturing and Using Eyewear

[0104] Referring to Figure 14 This section describes steps of an example method of manufacturing and using eyewear 1400. Various aspects of the eyewear 100 and the eyewear 200 can be applied in the following method steps. Where appropriate, reference can be made to the components and systems used to perform each step. These references are for illustration only and are not intended to limit the possible ways in which any particular step of the method can be performed.

[0105] Figure 14 are flow charts illustrating steps performed in example methods and can not enumerate every step or process of the methods. Although the various steps of the method 1400 are described below and depicted in Figure 14 , these steps need not necessarily be performed in the order shown and, in some cases, these steps can be performed concurrently or in different order than shown.

[0106] Step 1402 of the method 1400 includes providing or forming a goggle frame as described herein. In certain embodiments, the goggle frame and corresponding outrigger are formed separately and coupled to the outrigger of the goggle accordingly. Forming the goggle frame can include injection molding, blow molding, compression molding, extrusion molding, thermoforming, 3D printing, etc.

[0107] Step 1404 of the method 1400 includes forming one or more cage components as described herein. The one or more cage components can be formed by the steps described in method 1300. In some examples, the cage component body can be formed by bending a sheet of metal (e.g., by performing one or more bending operations on a flat shape), by machining from stock, by casting, molding, extruding, or in other suitable ways.

[0108] For example, step 1406 of the method 1400 can include embedding the elastic band in the opening of the cage component, thereby coupling the elastic band to the one or more cage components. In certain examples, the elastic band can include a first end and a second end, and the first end can be embedded into a first cage component and the second end can be embedded into a second cage component. Further, each cage component can be composed of multiple parts. In this way, the elastic band can be disposed within the multiple parts, which can then be coupled together, thereby forming the cage component and retaining the ends of the elastic band within the cage component.

[0109] In some examples, steps 1404 and 1406 can be performed simultaneously, such that when these steps include overmolding a plastic cage component to the ends of the elastic band, the cage component can be secured to the elastic band with or without the use of additional adhesive.

[0110] Step 1408 of the method 1400 can include coupling the one or more cage components to the opening of the goggle frame as described herein or to an opening disposed within the outrigger.

[0111] Step 1410 of the method 1400 includes applying a force to the elastic band. The elastic band can stretch and apply a force to the coupling between the elastic band and the cage component. Features of the cage component (e.g., protrusions) can retain the elastic band within the cage component. The force can then be transmitted through the cage component to the opening. The cage component can be retained within the opening (e.g., by features such as detents of the cage component). In this way, the elastic band can remain coupled to the goggle frame through the cage component despite the application of force on the elastic band.

[0112] D. Example methods of manufacturing and using a goggle

[0113] Referring to Figure 15This section describes steps of an example method of manufacturing and using eyewear 1500. Various aspects of eyewear 200 or eyewear 100 can be applied in the following method steps. Where appropriate, reference can be made to components and systems used to perform each step. These references are for illustration only and are not intended to limit the possible ways in which any particular step of the method can be performed.

[0114] Figure 15 is a flow diagram that illustrates the steps in an example method, and can not list every step of the method. Although the various steps of method 1500 are described below, and depicted in Figure 15 , these steps need not necessarily be performed in their order, and in some cases these steps can be performed simultaneously, or in a different order than shown.

[0115] For example, step 1502 of method 1500 includes forming a first segment of an outrigger by injection molding. The first segment can be formed with the eyewear frame, such as by overmolding, overmolding, or co-molding the eyewear frame and the first segment of the outrigger together. In some examples, step 1502 includes molding (e.g., injection molding) the first segment to include one or more joint-forming features (i.e., joint features) 1620 (see Figure 16 ) on the first segment. For example, the end of the first segment can have the shape of one or more protrusions, channels, recesses, orifices, keys, tails, pins, etc. In some examples, the joint-forming features are used to create a suitable male-female combination or interlocking first part (i.e., one “half”), such as a dovetail, a pin and sleeve joint, a tongue and groove joint, and a mortise and tenon, etc. Molding the first segment can include injection molding, blow molding, compression molding, extrusion molding, etc.

[0116] In some examples, step 1502 can include separating (e.g., breaking, cutting) one or more manufacturing artifacts from the first outrigger segment. In some examples, manufacturing the first segment of the outrigger includes causing material to flow through features such as gates and runners.

[0117] As an example example related to step 1502, Figure 16Coupling a pair of first outrigger segments 1600 to a manufacturing workpiece 1610 in the form of a gate 1612 and a runner 1614 is depicted. The first outrigger segments 1600 include two or more parts that are coupled together during the manufacturing process by the runner 1614. Here, separating the manufacturing workpiece from the first outrigger segments includes applying (e.g., manually) a force to a joint 1616 between the first outrigger segments and the runner 1614. In some examples, separating the manufacturing workpiece from the first outrigger segments includes any suitable powered method for separating the two parts, such as cutting, melting, etc. In the depicted example, forming the first outrigger segments includes forming a protrusion 1630 for coupling the outrigger to a goggle frame, such as by snap or friction fit within one or more slots or openings of the frame. In some examples, the protrusion 1630 includes a curved portion or hook for interlocking with a hole of the goggle frame. In some examples, forming the first segment of the outrigger includes forming an opening 1640 (at a rear portion of the segment) for receiving a goggle strap. In some examples, forming the first segment of the outrigger includes forming only a portion of the opening 1640.

[0118] For example, step 1504 of the method 1500 includes forming the second segment of the outrigger by injection molding such that the second segment is automatically secured to at least a portion of the first segment, thereby securing the first and second segments together. The second segment can be formed with the goggle frame, such as co-molding the goggle frame and the second segment of the outrigger together. The second segment can be formed by injection molding, blow molding, compression molding, extrusion molding, etc. In some examples, forming the second segment includes flowing molten material to and into contact with a joint feature of the first segment, thereby molding the second segment to the first segment, thereby automatically forming a permanent joint between the first and second segments. In some examples, the permanent joint is a secure joint that acts as a one-time fastening mechanism. The second segment can be formed to the first segment such that the first and second segments are mechanically interlocked together (i.e., resulting in interlocking joint features). The feature of the first segment can be configured to receive a complementary flow of material of the second segment flowing into, onto, or through the feature, thereby securing the second segment to the first segment. Forming the second segment of the outrigger to at least a portion of the first segment can include flowing material of the second segment through at least a portion of the first segment, thereby mechanically interlocking the first and second segments together.

[0119] In some examples, step 1504 includes placing (or leaving) the first segment in a mold or holder, and injection molding the second segment such that the material of the second segment flows onto, into, and / or through at least one or more joint-forming features of the first segment. In some examples, the one or more joint-forming features of the first segment include one or more recesses or channels, and injection molding the second segment includes flowing the molten material into the one or more recesses or channels. For example, the injection molding step can automatically form one or more complementary shapes at the end of the second segment that correspond to protrusions, channels, recesses, orifices, tails, pins, etc. on the first segment. In some examples, the joint-forming features are used to provide a second part or "half" of a male-female combination (dovetail, pin and sleeve joint, mortise and tenon, tongue and groove joint, etc.). In some examples, the molding of the second segment of the outrigger automatically forms one or more shapes that correspond to the joint-forming features of the first segment.

[0120] In some examples, step 1504 can include separating (e.g., breaking, cutting) one or more manufacturing artifacts from the second outrigger segment. In some examples, manufacturing the second segment of the outrigger includes flowing material through features such as gates and runners.

[0121] As an example related to step 1504, Figure 17 A second pair of outrigger segments 1700 are depicted, each of which is molded on a first outrigger segment 1600 and coupled to a manufacturing artifact 1710 in the form of a gate 1712 and a runner 1714. The second outrigger segment 1700 can include two or more usable parts, and the runner 1714 couples the two or more parts together during manufacturing. In some examples, separating the manufacturing artifact from the second outrigger segment includes applying (e.g., manually) a force to a joint 1716 between the second outrigger segment and the runner 1714. In some examples, separating the manufacturing artifact from the second outrigger segment includes any suitable powered method for separating the two parts, such as cutting, melting, etc.

[0122] The joint 1730 is formed when each second segment of the outrigger is created, disposed between the first segment and the second segment. Figure 17 The joint depicted in the example of FIG. 17 is disposed adjacent to a bottom end of the middle leg of the outrigger, and the second segment of the outrigger includes a lower leg of the outrigger. However, the joint can be disposed at any suitable location (e.g., adjacent to a top end of the middle leg of the outrigger, a midpoint of the outrigger, etc.). In some examples, the outrigger is substantially arcuate, and the joint is disposed at any point along the arc. In some examples, the outrigger includes a middle leg, an upper leg coupled to a top end of the middle leg, and a lower leg coupled to a bottom end of the middle leg, and the joint is disposed at any corner between the legs, or within either leg.

[0123] The second segment forming the outrigger can include forming a protrusion 1740 for coupling the outrigger to the eyewear frame, similar to protrusion 1630. In some examples, the protrusion 1740 includes a curved portion or hook for interlocking with a hole of the eyewear frame.

[0124] In some examples, the second segment forming the outrigger includes forming a second portion of a receptacle or opening 1640 for receiving an eyewear strap.

[0125] The first segment forming the outrigger can include forming the first segment such that the first segment has a first material characteristic or property. The second segment forming the outrigger can include forming the second segment such that the second segment has a second material characteristic or property. The first material characteristic or property can be different than the second material characteristic or property. The first material characteristic can include a first color and / or a first material. The second material characteristic can include a second color and / or a second material. Examples of suitable material characteristic and color combinations are listed above (see, e.g., subsection A).

[0126] Optionally, step 1506 of method 1500 includes coupling the outrigger to the eyewear, e.g., by attaching the first and second segments to the eyewear frame. In some examples, coupling the outrigger to the eyewear includes embedding a protrusion of the outrigger (e.g., protrusions 1630, 1740) into a hole and / or recess of the eyewear frame. In some examples, coupling the outrigger to the eyewear includes detachably coupling an end of the outrigger to the eyewear using a detent, a removable fastener (e.g., a screw, a cleat, a pin, etc.), a protrusion of the outrigger that mates with a hole of the eyewear, or vice versa, etc. In some examples, coupling the outrigger to the eyewear includes permanently coupling an end of the outrigger to the eyewear by means of an adhesive, melting, bonding, welding, etc. In some examples, the first outrigger segment and the eyewear frame are formed as one piece, and coupling the outrigger to the eyewear occurs during this operation.

[0127] Optionally, step 1508 of method 1500 includes coupling the elastic band to the outrigger. Steps 1508 and 1506 can be performed in any order. In some examples, coupling the elastic band to the outrigger includes embedding a cage member coupled (e.g., integrally coupled by overmolding, etc.) to an end of the elastic band into a receptacle (e.g., opening 1640) disposed within a lateral portion of the outrigger. In some examples, a portion of the opening is included within a first segment, while a remaining portion of the opening is included within a second segment. In some examples, the cage member includes a hook, or other feature for mating with a complementary hole or recess of the opening. In some examples, embedding the cage member into the hole includes slightly depressing the hook and / or deforming the opening such that the hook snaps into the recess or hole when the cage member is embedded.

[0128] Other examples of manufacturing methods of the present disclosure are listed below, along with embodiments of the steps described above. They are presented in the form of a series of marked paragraphs, but are not limited thereto.

[0129] E0. A method of manufacturing sports eyewear, the method comprising:

[0130] forming a first segment of an outrigger such that an end of the first segment includes a joint feature; and

[0131] forming a second segment of the outrigger onto the first segment by contacting the second segment with the joint feature with a flow of molten material, thereby automatically forming a permanent joint between the first segment and the second segment.

[0132] E1. The method of paragraph E0, wherein the outrigger is a C-shaped structure, the first segment and the second segment are disposed end-to-end such that the outrigger extends continuously from the first segment to the second segment.

[0133] E2. The method of paragraph E1, wherein the joint is disposed at a lower corner of the outrigger.

[0134] E3. The method of any of paragraphs E0-E2, further comprising attaching the first segment and the second segment to the eyewear frame such that the outrigger is coupled to the eyewear frame, thereby forming a gap between the outrigger and a lateral face of the eyewear frame.

[0135] E4. The method of paragraph E3, wherein forming the first segment of the outrigger includes forming a first protrusion, forming the second segment of the outrigger includes forming a second protrusion, and coupling the outrigger to the eyewear frame includes embedding the first protrusion into a first hole of the eyewear frame and embedding the second protrusion into a second hole of the eyewear frame.

[0136] E5. The method of any of paragraphs E0-E4, further comprising coupling the elastic band to the outrigger.

[0137] E6. The method of paragraph E5, wherein the elastic band comprises a cage component overmolded to the elastic band end portion; and coupling the elastic band to the outrigger comprises embedding the cage component in a receptacle formed within the outrigger.

[0138] E7. The method of paragraph E6, further comprising: forming the receptacle of the outrigger partially in the first segment and in the second segment.

[0139] E8. The method of any of paragraphs E0-E7, wherein forming the first segment and the second segment comprises injection molding.

[0140] E9. The method of any of paragraphs E0-E8, wherein the joint feature comprises one or more recesses in the first segment into which molten material flows when forming the second segment.

[0141] E10. The method of paragraph E9, wherein the joint feature of the first segment is part of a male / female mating combination.

[0142] E11. The method of any of paragraphs E0-E10, wherein the first segment has a first material property and the second segment has a second material property different from the first material property.

[0143] F0. A method of manufacturing sports eyewear, the method comprising:

[0144] injection molding a first segment of an eyewear outrigger; and

[0145] injection molding a second segment of the outrigger by flowing molten material into and in contact with an end portion of the first segment to automatically form a secure joint at a junction between the first segment and the second segment;

[0146] wherein the first segment and the second segment are combined end-to-end to extend an overall length of the outrigger.

[0147] F1. The method of paragraph F0, wherein the end portion of the first segment has a first shape; and forming the second segment of the outrigger automatically forms a second shape that interlocks when forming the secure joint.

[0148] F2. The method of paragraph F1, wherein the secure joint comprises a snap joint.

[0149] F3. The method of paragraph F2, wherein the fixed joint is a mortise and tenon joint.

[0150] F4. The method of any of paragraphs F0 to F3, wherein forming the first segment and the second segment of the outrigger comprises forming a protrusion for coupling the outrigger to the eyewear frame.

[0151] F5. The method of paragraph F4, further comprising:

[0152] forming a receptacle in the outrigger; and

[0153] embedding an overmolded cage member of the elastic band into the receptacle of the outrigger, thereby coupling the elastic band to the outrigger.

[0154] F6. The method of any of paragraphs F0 to F5, wherein the first segment has a first material property and the second segment has a second material property different from the first material property.

[0155] F7. The method of any of paragraphs F0 to F6, wherein the outrigger is a continuous C-shaped structure; and the fixed joint is disposed at a lower corner of the outrigger.

[0156] E. Exemplary Combinations and Other Examples

[0157] This section describes other aspects and features of eyewear and related methods in a series of paragraphs, but is not limited thereto, and some or all of these paragraphs can be combined in any appropriate manner, including in cross-referenced materials incorporated herein by reference, for clarity and efficiency. Each of these paragraphs can be combined with one or more other paragraphs and / or with the disclosure of other portions of this application in any appropriate manner. Some of the following paragraphs expressly refer to and further limit other paragraphs, thereby providing examples of some suitable combinations, but are not limited thereto.

[0158] A0. An eyewear comprising: an eyewear frame; and an outrigger disposed at an end of the eyewear frame, wherein the outrigger comprises: a first segment comprising a first material property; and a second segment fixed to the first segment, the second segment comprising a second material property.

[0159] A1. The eyewear of A0, wherein the first material property is different from the second material property.

[0160] A2. The eyewear of A0 or A1, wherein the second segment is formed to the first segment, thereby fixing the first segment and the second segment together.

[0161] A3. The eyewear of any of paragraphs A0 through A2, wherein the first segment and the second segment comprise complementary interlocking features that mechanically bind the first segment and the second segment together.

[0162] A4. The eyewear of A3, wherein a flow of material of one of the first segment and the second segment flows through the other of the first segment and the second segment, thereby mechanically binding the first segment and the second segment together.

[0163] A5. The eyewear of A4, wherein one of the first segment and the second segment comprises one or more channels; a flow of material of the other of the first segment and the second segment flows through the one or more channels, thereby permanently binding the first segment and the second segment together.

[0164] A6. The eyewear of A3, wherein the first segment and the second segment comprise complementary shapes that interlock to secure the first segment and the second segment together.

[0165] A7. The eyewear of A6, wherein the complementary shapes create a secure frictional interlock that secures the first segment and the second segment together.

[0166] B0. An outrigger system for eyewear, the outrigger system comprising: a first segment comprising a first material property; and a second segment secured to the first segment, the second segment comprising a second material property different from the first material property.

[0167] B1. The outrigger system of B0, wherein the first material property is a first material; the second material property is a second material different from the first material.

[0168] B2. The outrigger system of B1, wherein the second material is shaped to the first segment, thereby securing the first segment and the second segment together.

[0169] B3. The outrigger system of B2, wherein a flow of material of the second material flows over and / or onto portions of the first segment, thereby mechanically binding the first segment and the second segment together.

[0170] B4. The outrigger system of B2, wherein the first material is a thermoplastic polyurethane; the second material is a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0171] B5. The outrigger system of any of paragraphs B0 through B4, wherein the first material property comprises a first texture; the second material property comprises a second texture different from the first texture.

[0172] C0. A method of manufacturing eyewear, comprising: forming or providing an eyewear frame; forming a first segment of an outrigger of the eyewear frame; and forming a second segment of the outrigger onto at least a portion of the first segment, thereby securing the first segment and the second segment together.

[0173] C1. The method of C0, wherein forming the second segment onto at least a portion of the first segment comprises mechanically locking the first segment and the second segment together.

[0174] C2. The method of C1, wherein forming the first segment comprises forming one or more interlocking features of the first segment; and forming the second segment comprises flowing material of the second segment into or through the one or more features of the first segment, thereby mechanically locking the first segment and the second segment together.

[0175] C3. The method of any of paragraphs C0 to C2, wherein forming the first segment comprises forming the first segment with first material properties; and forming the second segment comprises forming the second segment with second material properties that are different than the first material properties of the first segment.

[0176] C4. The method of any of paragraphs C0 to C3, wherein at least one of the first segment and the second segment is formed as one piece with the eyewear frame.

[0177] D0. Eyewear, comprising: an eyewear frame; and a C-shaped outrigger coupled with the eyewear frame. The outrigger comprises: a first segment extending along and defining a first portion of the C-shape; and a second segment extending along and defining a remaining portion of the C-shape; wherein the first segment and the second segment are integrally coupled at a split joint.

[0178] D1. The eyewear of paragraph D0, further comprising an elastic strap coupled to the outrigger.

[0179] D2. The eyewear of paragraph D0 or D1, wherein the joint is disposed adjacent to a bottom of a middle leg portion of the outrigger.

[0180] D3. The eyewear of any of paragraphs D0 to D2, wherein the first segment has first material properties and the second segment has second material properties that are different than the first material properties.

[0181] D4. The eyewear of any of paragraphs D0 to D3, wherein portions of the first segment interlock with complementary portions of the second segment.

[0182] Advantages, Features, and Benefits

[0183] The various embodiments and examples of eyewear described herein provide numerous advantages over known solutions. For example, the example embodiments and examples described herein allow a single outrigger to include multiple materials having different material properties.

[0184] Additionally, the example embodiments and examples described herein improve the structural integrity of the joint components disposed in the outrigger of the eyewear, among other benefits.

[0185] Additionally, the example embodiments and examples described herein reduce the size of the eyewear by including a more compact eyewear-elastic band interface, among other benefits.

[0186] Additionally, the example methods described herein provide greater flexibility to set the appearance and / or functional features of the outrigger when manufacturing of a single outrigger cannot be achieved, among other benefits. In other words, a variety of appearance and functional options are possible when designing the outrigger of the present disclosure.

[0187] It is not known that these functional systems or devices can be achieved. However, not all of the embodiments and examples described herein provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages.

[0188] CONCLUSION

[0189] The disclosure set forth above can encompass a variety of different examples with independent utility. While each of these examples has been disclosed in its preferred form, the specific embodiments disclosed and shown herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense, as numerous variations are possible. With respect to the various section headings used within this disclosure, these headings are solely in the nature of organizers and are not in itself to be construed as limiting. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and / or properties disclosed herein. The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and nonobvious. Other combinations and subcombinations can be claimed in the application(s) claiming priority to this application or to an application claiming priority to this application. Such supporting claims, whether broader, narrower, identical, or different, are hereby expressly incorporated into the present disclosure as further examples of the disclosure subject matter.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing sports goggles, the method comprising: The first segment of the shaped overhanging bracket is such that the end of the first segment includes a joint feature; as well as By allowing molten material to flow into and contact the joint feature, the second segment of the overhang bracket is molded onto the first segment, thereby automatically forming a permanent joint between the first and second segments.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The extended support has a C-shaped structure, and the first segment and the second segment are connected end to end, so that the extended support extends continuously from the first segment to the second segment.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The joint is located at the lower corner of the extended support.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: By attaching the first and second segments to the goggle frame, the extension bracket is connected to the goggle frame, thereby creating a gap between the extension bracket and the side of the goggle frame.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The first segment forming the extended support includes: forming a first protrusion; The second segment forming the extended support includes: forming a second protrusion; and... The process of connecting the extension bracket to the goggle frame includes: inserting the first protrusion into the first hole of the goggle frame and inserting the second protrusion into the second hole of the goggle frame.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising connecting an elastic band to the extension bracket.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, The elastic band includes a cage-like component that is overmolded to the end of the elastic band; and Connecting the elastic band to the extension bracket includes embedding the cage-like component in a receiver formed within the extension bracket.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising partially forming the receiver of the extension bracket in the first segment and the second segment.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Molding the first segment and the second segment includes injection molding.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The joint feature includes one or more recesses in the first segment, into which the molten material flows when the second segment is formed.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first segment's joint feature is the first part of a convex / concave mating combination.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first segment has a first material property, and the second segment has a second material property that is different from the first material property.

13. A method for manufacturing sports goggles, the method comprising: The first section of the injection-molded goggle's extension bracket; as well as The second section of the overhang bracket is injection molded by allowing molten material to flow to and contact the end of the first section, thereby automatically forming a fixed joint at the junction between the first and second sections. Specifically, the first and second segments, which are connected end to end, are combined to extend the overall length of the outrigger.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The end of the first segment has a first shape; and the second segment of the outrigger, when forming the fixed joint, automatically forms a second shape that interlocks with each other.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The fixed joint includes a male and female joint.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The fixed joint is a mortise and tenon joint.

17. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The first and second sections of the extended support include forming protrusions for attaching the extended support to the frame of the goggles.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: A receiver is formed in the extended support; as well as The elastic band is connected to the extension bracket by embedding the cage-like component, which is covered by the elastic band, into the receiver of the extension bracket.

19. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The first segment has a first material property, and the second segment has a second material property that is different from the first material property.

20. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The extended support is a continuous C-shaped structure, and the fixed joint is located at the lower corner of the extended support.

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