A device for adjusting eyewear to improve vision during billiard play

Abstract

A device and a method for elevating existing eyeglasses to improve vision during billiard play comprising a body 801 with a broad contoured bottom section (fig. 1 101) configured to rest securely on t

Description

[0001] The present invention pertains to vision enhancement devices, specifically to attachments designed for use with existing prescription eyewear. This device is particularly suited for players of billiards, snooker, or pool who require corrective lenses and face challenges maintaining clear vision in their playing stance. The invention allows such users to elevate their glasses to the proper eye line, ensuring optimal focus during gameplay. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Cue sports such as snooker, pool, and billiards demand a high level of precision and visual focus from players to ensure accurate shot-making. This level of focus is often complicated for players who require corrective eyewear, as maintaining the ideal posture during play can create visual alignment challenges. When a player takes the standard playing stance, they often need to tilt their head upward to keep their line of sight aligned with the cue ball and the target ball. This tilt can result in looking over the upper rim of their eyeglasses, which shifts the focal point outside the lens coverage and leads to blurred vision, reduced accuracy, and suboptimal gameplay.

[0003] For players who rely on prescription eyeglasses, the transition from standing to the focused playing stance introduces significant vision challenges. The structure of standard glasses is generally designed for forward-facing or slightly downward views, aligning well with everyday tasks such as reading or walking. However, when playing cue sports, the need for an upward line of sight forces the wearer to either strain their head and neck to keep the glasses aligned with their eyes or accept reduced vision clarity by looking over the rims.

[0004] This creates a paradox: the very eyewear that helps players see better in most situations becomes a hindrance when they need precise vision the most. This issue not only disrupts concentration and performance but can also lead to physical discomfort and fatigue over time as players adjust their posture unnaturally.

[0005] Over the years, several approaches have been developed to address aiming and vision-related challenges in billiards and other cue sports, though none have directly and effectively tackled the problem of eyewear misalignment. One of the primary solutions has been the development and use of specialized tall glasses. These glasses feature an extended lens height that accommodates an upward gaze, allowing players to maintain visual focus without having to tilt their head excessively.

[0006] Custom-made tall glasses are often more expensive than standard prescription glasses due to the need for bespoke lens manufacturing and professional fitting services. The larger size of the lenses and frames adds weight and bulk, making them uncomfortable for extended use and impractical for activities outside of billiards. These specialized glasses are not suited for daily wear, limiting their usefulness to the specific context of playing cue sports.

[0007] Various patents, such as US55427183A, US3389911A, and US3411779A, disclose technical enhancements like aiming lasers, adjustable sights, and reflective aids designed to improve shot precision. These devices focus on the alignment of the cue or enhancing the aiming process rather than addressing visual misalignment. These devices add complexity to gameplay and rely on additional equipment that may not be permitted in all playing environments. These aids do not solve the fundamental problem of maintaining a clear line of sight when wearing standard prescription glasses during play. Some players attempt to mitigate the problem by adjusting their head or neck posture to align their eyes with the lenses. This method is neither ergonomic nor sustainable, leading to discomfort and a compromised playing stance.

[0008] The present invention introduces a novel solution specifically designed to address the issue of visual misalignment faced by players who wear prescription glasses. This device offers a practical, comfortable, and effective way to align the user’s existing eyeglasses with their natural line of sight during gameplay, without requiring new or specialized eyewear.

[0009] The present invention successfully addresses a long-standing challenge in cue sports: the need for corrective eyewear that aligns with the visual requirements of a proper playing stance. By offering a simple, adaptable, and cost-efficient device that attaches to existing eyeglasses, this invention empowers players to maintain clear vision and optimal performance without sacrificing comfort or convenience. This solution provides a significant advancement over previous art by directly targeting the issue of visual misalignment and offering a user-friendly way to improve gameplay for eyeglass wearers. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention provides a novel solution for billiard, snooker, and pool players who require corrective eyewear. Specifically, it addresses the issue of visual misalignment that occurs when players tilt their head upward to align their shot, leading them to look over the rim of their glasses and resulting in blurred vision and decreased shot accuracy. Unlike prior solutions that necessitate purchasing specialized or custom-made tall glasses, this invention enhances the functionality of a player’s existing prescription eyewear by enabling adjustments that maintain clear, unobstructed vision during gameplay.

[0011] The invention is designed as a compact, user-friendly attachment that raises the user's current eyeglasses to the proper eye line. It ensures that the player's line of sight remains within the lens coverage even when assuming a typical playing posture. By facilitating this adjustment, the device eliminates the need for constant head tilting or posture alterations that could lead to discomfort and inconsistent gameplay.

[0012] In an embodiment of the present invention, the device features an upper slot specifically designed to accommodate the nose bridge of standard prescription glasses. This slot ensures that the attachment remains secure during use and can be easily inserted or removed as needed. The design simplifies the attachment process so that players can install or remove the device quickly, making it a practical tool for intermittent or continuous gameplay.

[0013] The invention is designed with a broad, contoured bottom portion that sits firmly on the bridge of the user's nose. This design ensures that the device stays in place and effectively raises the eyeglasses to the optimal level for visual focus. The contoured shape matches the natural curvature of the nose, creating a stable and comfortable fit. This thoughtful design allows users to maintain their eyeglasses’ adjusted position without slipping or readjusting during play.

[0014] The device is made from lightweight, flexible materials that provide comfort for extended use. The choice of material ensures that the device does not add significant weight to the eyeglasses, preserving user comfort even during long sessions. The flexibility of the material also contributes to the device’s adaptability, allowing it to fit a variety of eyeglass styles and nose shapes.

[0015] The upper portion of the device includes a slot that securely holds the nose bridge of the glasses during installation. This feature enables easy and firm attachment, ensuring the device remains positioned as intended. A cavity within the slot accommodates the shape of the nose bridge, enhancing the fit and stability of the attachment during gameplay.

[0016] The invention effectively solves a long-standing problem faced by billiard players who wear corrective lenses. By providing an adjustable, lightweight attachment that fits onto existing eyeglasses, it enables users to maintain clear and focused vision while assuming the optimal playing posture. This innovation reduces the need for specialized, costly, and uncomfortable tall glasses and enhances gameplay by ensuring a consistent, unobstructed line of sight. With its user-friendly design, comfort, and affordability, the invention represents a significant advancement in the field of vision correction for cue sports players.

[0017] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0018] The aforesaid as well as other objects and advantages of the invention will appear hereinafter from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0019] FIG. 1 is a front view of device according to one or more aspects of an illustrative embodiment of the invention;

[0020] FIG. 2 is a rear view of device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] FIG. 3 is a side view of device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [0023JFIG.5 illustrates a side view of the user before using the device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of the user after using the device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] FIG. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of the user before using the device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] FIG. 8 illustrates a front perspective view of the user after using the device according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the invention. These and other features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

[0026] With reference now to the drawings, and in particular to FIG. 1 to FIG. 8 thereof, a device for adjusting eyewear to improve vision during billiard play embodying the principles and concepts of the present invention is described.

[0027] The present invention is designed to improve visual alignment for players of cue sports such as billiards, snooker, and pool who rely on prescription eyewear. By raising the user's existing glasses to the optimal eye line, the device ensures that players can maintain focus without altering their head position or posture, which enhances both comfort and shot accuracy. This detailed description will outline the structural and functional elements of the invention and explain how it achieves its intended purpose.

[0028] Reference is made to FIG. 1, illustrating the front view (100) of the device. The device is a structured piece designed with a broad bottom portion that tapers upward into a narrower top section. This tapering shape provides stability at the base while minimizing material use at the top for comfort and unobtrusiveness.

[0029] At the broad bottom portion, the device features a crest-shaped cut (101) that is contoured specifically to enable it to rest securely on the bridge of the user’s nose. This cut provides an ergonomic fit that conforms to the natural curvature of the nose, ensuring that the device stays planted firmly in place during use. The crest-shaped cut helps distribute the weight evenly, preventing pressure points and maintaining comfort throughout prolonged gameplay.

[0030] The gradual taper from the broad bottom portion to the narrower upper section ensures that the device can elevate the attached glasses without obstructing the user’s vision or causing discomfort. This design allows for seamless integration with the user's existing eyeglasses, raising them to the proper eye line and maintaining focus during play.

[0031] Reference is made to FIG. 2, which illustrates the rear view (200) of the device. This view provides a comprehensive look at the design from the backside, highlighting the structural features that ensure a secure and comfortable fit on the user’s nose.

[0032] The device's broad bottom portion, as seen from the rear, showcases a larger crest-shaped cut (201) that extends deeper than the corresponding front cut. This expanded crest cut at the rear serves a crucial purpose: it allows the device to anchor firmly on the bridge of the nose, ensuring stability and preventing slippage during use. The deeper contour adapts to the nose's natural shape, providing an ergonomic fit that distributes pressure evenly across the contact area.

[0033] The rear side of the device is designed to cradle the nose bridge effectively, enabling the attached eyeglasses to maintain their elevated position without shifting. The wider crest cut (201) creates an accommodating space that enhances the attachment’s grip, supporting a secure placement that stays in position even during active movements.

[0034] This rear cut, in conjunction with the overall structure of the device, contributes to its ability to raise the user's eyeglasses to the proper eye line, ensuring optimal focus without visual obstruction or discomfort. The tapering upper portion seen from this view also underscores the lightweight design that contributes to user comfort.

[0035] Reference is made to FIG. 3, which illustrates the side view (300) of the device. This view highlights the functional design features that allow the device to securely attach to the user's existing eyeglasses while providing stability and comfort.

[0036] The upper portion of the device incorporates a well-defined slot (302) designed specifically to accept the nose bridge of the glasses during installation or removal. This slot is engineered to be slightly flexible, allowing it to accommodate various nose bridge shapes and sizes without compromising the stability of the fit. The slot's width and depth are carefully measured to provide a snug grip that prevents the glasses from slipping out while allowing for easy attachment and detachment when needed.

[0037] Directly beneath the slot (302) is a cavity (301) that serves as a resting space for the nose bridge of the eyeglasses once installed. This cavity is contoured to cradle the nose bridge securely, ensuring that the glasses remain in an elevated and stable position. The design of the cavity not only supports the glasses but also helps distribute the weight evenly, contributing to user comfort by reducing pressure points.

[0038] The side profile of the device shows a gradual tapering from the broad bottom portion to the upper section. This tapered design ensures that the device raises the eyeglasses to the proper eye line for optimal focus without being intrusive or obstructing the user’s field of vision. The side view also underscores the lightweight nature of the structure, which minimizes any additional strain on the user's nose.

[0039] Reference is made to FIG. 4, which provides a cross-sectional view (400) of the device. This perspective reveals the internal structure and design elements that contribute to the secure and comfortable attachment of the device to the user's eyeglasses.

[0040] The cross-sectional view showcases the upper slot (302), which extends inward from the top edge of the device. This slot is configured with dimensions that allow the nose bridge of the eyeglasses to slide in smoothly, providing a firm and stable grip. The cross-section reveals the depth and shape of the slot, illustrating how it tapers inward slightly to create a tight fit that prevents the glasses from shifting or slipping during use.

[0041] Below the slot (302), the cavity (301) is visible, which is designed to cradle the nose bridge once installed. This cavity is contoured to match the common curvature of eyeglass nose 7 bridges, allowing it to securely hold the bridge in place. The cross-sectional view highlights how the cavity (301) extends into the body of the device, providing a supportive resting area that stabilizes the glasses and ensures they are raised to the proper eye line.

[0042] The broad bottom portion of the device is also depicted in this cross-sectional view, showcasing the thickness and contour of the material that comes into contact with the user’s nose. The device's base is designed with a slight curve to distribute the weight evenly across the bridge of the nose, enhancing comfort and reducing pressure points during extended wear. The cross-sectional structure of the crest-shaped cut (101 / 201) at the bottom shows how the rear and front sections contour symmetrically to ensure the device plants securely on the nose.

[0043] The material composition, represented by the uniform thickness visible in the crosssection, emphasizes the device’s lightweight and flexible properties. This construction ensures that the device remains durable while maintaining comfort and ease of use.

[0044] Reference is made now to FIG. 5, illustrating a side view embodiment 500 of the user with eyeglasses 501 before using the device.

[0045] Reference is made to FIG. 6, which illustrates a side view embodiment (600) of a user with eyeglasses (601) after employing the device (602). This figure demonstrates how the device interacts with the user’s existing glasses and facial structure, enhancing their line of vision during gameplay.

[0046] The user positions the eyeglasses (601) so that the nose bridge of the glasses slides into the upper slot (302) of the device, as shown in detail in FIG. 3. This slot is specially designed to accept the nose bridge with a secure fit that holds the eyeglasses in place without additional adjustment. The user installs the glasses by guiding the nose bridge into the slot until it rests firmly in the cavity (301), ensuring stability and proper alignment.

[0047] The device (602) features a contoured bottom portion that is strategically designed to rest comfortably on the bridge of the user’s nose. This contour is tailored to the natural curvature of the nose, providing a secure and pressure-distributing contact point that holds the device and eyeglasses steadily in position. This configuration prevents unwanted movement or slippage during use, even as the user shifts their posture or focus during gameplay.

[0048] By elevating the eyeglasses (601) to the proper eye line, the device (602) helps maintain an unobstructed view through the main optical portion of the lenses. This is crucial for users who, without the device, might otherwise need to tilt their head upward to align their eyes with the glasses, leading to discomfort and diminished focus. The raised positioning ensures that the user can maintain a natural stance and direct their gaze more effectively while aiming shots, improving accuracy and reducing visual strain.

[0050] The side view also highlights the slim, unobtrusive profde of the device (602). Despite being structurally robust enough to elevate the glasses, the device is designed to be compact and minimally invasive, ensuring it does not interfere with the user's peripheral vision or create visual distractions.

[0051] Reference is made now to FIG. 7, illustrating front perspective view embodiment 700 of the user before attaching device to eyeglasses 701.

[0052] Reference is made to FIG. 8, which provides a front perspective view embodiment (800) of the user after the device (801) has been attached to their eyeglasses. This figure is essential for visualizing how the device interacts with the user’s face and glasses, demonstrating the practical impact of the invention when in use.

[0053] In this embodiment, the user’s existing eyeglasses have been securely fitted with the device (801), which elevates the glasses to the proper eye line. The front perspective view highlights how the device integrates seamlessly with the eyewear, sitting unobtrusively on the bridge of the user's nose. The device’s contoured structure ensures a snug fit that aligns the eyeglasses optimally with the user’s eyes, allowing them to look straight through the primary visual field of the lenses without having to tilt their head upward or adjust their stance.

[0054] The broad bottom portion of the device, visible in the front view, rests firmly on the user’s nose. This contoured base helps to distribute pressure evenly, providing comfort and stability even during extended periods of use. The ergonomic design is key to ensuring that the device remains securely in place, preventing any shifting or slipping that might otherwise disrupt the user’s vision during precise activities, such as aiming in billiard play.

[0055] The upper section of the device, seen extending subtly from behind the eyeglasses, shows the slot where the nose bridge of the eyeglasses is anchored. This design ensures that the glasses 9 are slightly raised and securely held, positioning the lenses at the ideal height for improved focus and visibility. The device achieves this elevation without adding bulk or obstructing the user’s field of view, which is especially important for maintaining peripheral awareness during play.

[0056] The front perspective view also emphasizes the device’s minimalist appearance. Its streamlined profile ensures that while it serves a critical functional purpose, it does not detract from the user’s appearance or interfere with the aesthetic of the glasses. This subtlety ensures that users can wear the device confidently, whether they are engaged in a game or simply transitioning between gameplay and everyday activities.

[0057] The invention offers numerous benefits that address the shortcomings of prior solutions: • Unlike custom tall glasses that can be costly, heavy, and impractical for everyday use, this device works with existing prescription eyewear. Users can enjoy the visual benefits without investing in additional pairs of specialized glasses. The device reduces financial and logistical barriers by offering a cost-effective alternative that does not require professional fittings or adjustments. • By elevating the glasses to the proper eye line, players can maintain a clear field of view, reducing the risk of visual obstruction or blurriness. This leads to better focus and higher accuracy when taking shots. The device provides a consistent visual aid that allows players to maintain their standard head and neck posture, enhancing comfort and stability during gameplay. • The device’s lightweight construction prevents the feeling of added bulk on the face, making it ideal for extended use without causing fatigue or discomfort. The ergonomic contouring ensures that the device sits snugly on the bridge of the nose without slipping, providing a reliable and unobtrusive experience for the user. • The device is designed to be user-friendly, enabling quick and effortless attachment or detachment. This feature allows players to easily switch between using the device during gameplay and removing it for other activities.

[0058] While the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described and illustrated herein, it will be appreciated that they are merely illustrative. It will be understood by those 10 skilled in the art that various modifications in form and detail may be made therein without departing from or offending the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Additionally, the invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein - and in particular embodiment specifically contemplated, is intended to be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A device for elevating existing eyeglasses to improve vision during billiard play, comprising:a body with a broad bottom portion that tapers into a narrower upper portion;a contoured bottom section configured to rest and plant securely on the bridge of a user’s nose;an upper slot adapted to accept the nose bridge of eyeglasses for installation or removal;a cavity beneath the slot, shaped to cradle and support the nose bridge of the eyeglasses to maintain an elevated position for optimal eye alignment;wherein the device raises the eyeglasses to the proper eye line, allowing the user to maintain focus and visual clarity without tilting their head upward.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the contoured bottom section includes a crest-shaped cut designed to distribute weight evenly across the user's nose, providing stability and comfort during extended use.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the upper slot is configured to flexibly accommodate various eyeglass nose bridge shapes and sizes, ensuring a secure fit that prevents movement or slippage.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the body is made of a lightweight, flexible material to allow for easy attachment and removal, minimizing additional pressure on the user’s nose.

5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a minimalistic design that allows for unobstructed vision and integration with the user’s existing eyeglasses without interfering with peripheral awareness.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the cavity beneath the slot includes a contour that mirrors the common curvature of eyeglass nose bridges to cradle the glasses securely in place.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the broad bottom portion and contoured design provide a balanced base that anchors the device, preventing it from shifting during active movement, such as during a billiard shot.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the upper portion is shaped to taper smoothly, maintaining a lightweight profile that minimizes obstruction and enhances user comfort during gameplay.

9. A method for elevating eyeglasses for improved vision during billiard play, comprising:sliding the nose bridge of existing eyeglasses into a slot of an attachable device;positioning the nose bridge into a supporting cavity within the device;allowing the contoured bottom portion of the device to rest on the bridge of the user’s nose to raise the eyeglasses to the proper eye line;stabilizing the eyeglasses at an elevated level for focused vision without requiring the user to tilt their head.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of positioning includes aligning the nose bridge with the cavity contour to ensure a snug and stable fit.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the sliding step involves gently flexing the device to accommodate the nose bridge shape and securing it into place.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the bottom contoured portion includes a rear-facing crest cut that enhances the device’s ability to plant itself firmly on the user's nose for added stability during play.

13. The device of claim 1, further configured to be detachable, allowing the user to use the same pair of eyeglasses both during and outside of gameplay without needing separate specialized eyewear.

14. The device of claim 1, wherein the material composition is selected for durability and hypoallergenic properties to ensure long-term wearability without irritation.

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