Clip and adornment for an eyeglass frame

Abstract

An eyeglass accessory may include a flexible sleeve defining a channel, the flexible sleeve configured to slide on and off a temple of an eyeglass frame. The eyeglass accessory may include a clip having a base and a movable arm hingably attached to the base, the base being slidable into the channel of the flexible sleeve to couple the clip to the temple of the eyeglass frame, wherein the movable arm is disposed outside of the channel.

Description

CLIP AND ADORNMENT FOR AN EYEGLASS FRAMECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 594,327, entitled ATTACHABLE CLIP AND ADORNMENT FOR AN EYEGLASS FRAME, filed October 30, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 682,530, entitled CLIP AND ADORNMENT FOR AN EYEGLASS FRAME, filed August 13, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties.BACKGROUND

[0002] Generally, the terms “eyeglasses” or “glasses” include a wide variety of lens and frame combinations, including but not limited to, spectacles, reading glasses, sunglasses, and eyeglasses with or without vision-correcting lenses. Cords, chains, and flexible straps that couple to each temple of the eyeglass frame and wrap around a user’s neck are currently used to prevent the eyeglasses from falling away from the user’s body when not being worn on the user’s face. Such systems and devices are bulky and reduce the aesthetic appeal of the design of the eyeglasses. Additionally, cord and chain eyewear retainers are not preferred for all eyewear users.

[0003] Furthermore, existing eyewear adornments are permanently affixed to a single pair of eyeglasses, making the style permanent to the single pair of eyeglasses. Users wishing to access a variety of styles (e.g., having different adornments) must purchase a new pair of eyeglasses, increasing the cost to the user.

[0004] Therefore, a need exists for eyeglass retaining devices that provide a retaining structure and / or customizable aesthetics to match a user’s preferences.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] According to one implementation, an eyeglass accessory is disclosed. The eyeglass accessory includes a flexible sleeve and a clip. The flexible sleeve defines a channel. The flexible sleeve is configured to slide on and off a temple of an eyeglass frame. The clip has a base and a movable arm hingably attached to the base. The base is slidable into the channel of the flexible sleeve to couple the clip to the temple of the eyeglass frame. The movable arm is disposed outside of the channel.

[0006] In some implementations, the clip includes a spring hinge disposed adjacent a first end of the base and the movable arm and coupled to the base and the movable arm. The spring hinge biases a second end of the movable arm toward a second end of the base.

[0007] In some implementations, an intermediate portion of the movable arm between the spring hinge and the second end of the movable arm abuts an outer surface of the flexible sleeve in a closed configuration, and the second end of the movable arm is spaced apart from the second end of the base in an open configuration and the closed configuration.

[0008] In some implementations, a first end portion of the movable arm between the spring hinge and the first end of the movable arm extends transverse to the intermediate portion of the movable arm.

[0009] In some implementations, the first end portion of the movable arm extends parallel to the base in the closed configuration.

[0010] In some implementations, the first end portion of the movable arm extends transverse to the base in the closed configuration.

[0011] In some implementations, a first end portion of the movable arm between the spring hinge and the first end of the movable arm, and an intermediate portion of the movable arm between the spring hinge and the second end of the movable arm extend in a same plane.

[0012] In some implementations, the base includes a first portion and a second portion that is integrally formed with the first portion. The first portion has a first width and the second portion has a second width that is less than the first width.

[0013] In some implementations, the first width of the first portion is equal to a width of the movable arm.

[0014] In some implementations, the eyeglass accessory further includes an adornment base slidable into the channel of the flexible sleeve. The adornment base is couplable to an adornment.

[0015] In some implementations, the adornment base is removably couplable to the adornment.

[0016] According to another implementation, an eyeglass accessory system is disclosed. The eyeglass accessory system includes an eyeglass temple and a clip. The clip has a movable arm hingably coupled to the eyeglass temple. An end of the movable arm is movable relative to the eyeglass temple between an open configuration, in which the end of themovable arm is spaced apart a first distance from the eyeglass temple, and a closed configuration, in which the end of the movable arm is a second distance from the eyeglass temple. The second distance is less than the first distance. The end of the movable arm is a second end of the movable arm, and a first end of the movable arm is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple.

[0017] In some implementations, the first end of the movable arm is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple through an end portion of the clip, the end portion of the clip being directly integrally formed with the eyeglass temple and the first end of the movable arm. The end portion extends between the first end of the movable arm and the eyeglass temple and defining a gap between the first end of the movable arm and the eyeglass temple. The second end of the movable arm is biased toward the eyeglass temple and is pivotable about the end portion to move between the open and the closed configurations.

[0018] In some implementations, the second distance is greater than 0.

[0019] In some implementations, the eyeglass accessory system further includes an adornment base that is removably couplable to an adornment. The adornment base is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple.

[0020] According to another implementation, an eyeglass accessory is disclosed. The eyeglass accessory includes an eyeglass temple, a support, and a clip. The support is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple. A spring hinge is coupled to the support. The clip has a movable arm hingably coupled to the spring hinge. An end of the movable arm is movable relative to the eyeglass temple between an open configuration, in which the end of the movable arm is spaced apart a first distance from the eyeglass temple, and a closed configuration, in which the end of the movable arm is a second distance from the eyeglass temple. The second distance is less than the first distance.

[0021] In some implementations, the end of the movable arm is a second end, and the movable arm has a first end opposite the second end along a longitudinal axis of the movable arm. A first end portion extends between the first end of the movable arm and the spring hinge, and the first end portion extends parallel to the eyeglass temple in the closed configuration.

[0022] In some implementations, the end of the movable arm is a second end, and the movable arm has a first end opposite the second end along a longitudinal axis of the movable arm. A first end portion extends between the first end of the movable arm and the springhinge. The first end portion of the movable arm extends transverse to the eyeglass temple in the closed configuration.

[0023] In some implementations, the movable arm extends in a plane that is transverse to the eyeglass temple in the closed configuration.

[0024] In some implementations, the second distance is greater than 0.

[0025] In some implementations, the second distance is greater than 0.

[0026] In some implementations, the eyeglass accessory system further includes an adornment base that is removably couplable to an adornment. The adornment base is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1A shows an eyeglass accessory attached to a pair of eyeglasses, according to one implementation.

[0028] FIG. IB shows a side view of a flexible sleeve of the eyeglass accessory of FIG. 1A attached to the pair of eyeglasses of FIG. 1A.

[0029] FIG. 1C shows a perspective view of the flexible sleeve of FIG. IB.

[0030] FIG. ID shows a front perspective view of a clip of the eyeglass accessory of FIG. 1A.

[0031] FIG. IE shows a back perspective view of the clip of FIG. ID.

[0032] FIG. IF shows a side view of the clip of FIG. ID.

[0033] FIG. 1G shows a top view of the clip of FIG. ID.

[0034] FIG. 1H shows a bottom view of the clip of FIG. ID.

[0035] FIG. 2A shows an eyeglass accessory attached to a pair of eyeglasses, according to another implementation.

[0036] FIG. 2B shows a front perspective view of a clip of the eyeglass accessory of FIG. 2A.

[0037] FIG. 2C shows a back perspective view of the clip of FIG. 2B.

[0038] FIG. 2D shows a side view of the clip of FIG. 2B.

[0039] FIG. 2E shows a top view of the clip of FIG. 2B.

[0040] FIG. 2F shows a bottom view of the clip of FIG. 2B.

[0041] FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of an eyeglass attachment with an adornment, according to another implementation.

[0042] FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of the attachment of FIG. 3A coupled to a pair of eyeglasses, according to one implementation.

[0043] FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of a clip for an eyeglass accessory, according to another implementation.

[0044] FIG. 4B shows a top view of the clip of FIG. 4A.

[0045] FIG. 4C shows a bottom view of the clip of FIG. 4A.

[0046] FIG. 4D shows a side view of the clip of FIG. 4A.

[0047] FIG. 4E shows an example implementation of the clip of FIG. 4A including one top view with example dimensions and one top view of a clip having a marking thereon.

[0048] FIG. 4F shows a perspective view of a clip for an eyeglass accessory, according to another implementation.

[0049] FIG. 4G shows a top view of the clip of FIG. 4F.

[0050] FIG. 4H shows a bottom view of the clip of FIG. 4F.

[0051] FIG. 41 shows a side view of the clip of FIG. 4F.

[0052] FIG. 5A shows an image of an integrally formed clip on a pair of eyeglasses, according to one implementation.

[0053] FIG. 5B shows an exploded view of the integrally formed clip of FIG. 5A.

[0054] FIG. 6A shows an image of an integrally formed clip on a pair of eyeglasses, according to one implementation.

[0055] FIG. 6B shows a side view of the clip shown in FIG. 6A.

[0056] Various objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Referring generally to the figures, various implementations of accessories for eyeglasses are shown, including clips and adornments.

[0058] Generally, existing designs and structures for eyeglasses fail to adequately retain the glasses adjacent to the user’s body when not being worn on the face. For example, users often close the glasses and insert one of the temples of the eyeglass frame into a shirt or pocket. However, the glasses are still able to fall out due to the inadequate retaining force of the temple. The systems and devices disclosed herein provide improved retaining systems for eyeglasses. In some implementations, a flexible sleeve slides over the temple of a pair of eyeglasses, and a clip is coupled to the flexible sleeve. In some implementations, the clip is biased closed via a spring hinge. In some implementations, the clip is coupled to the eyeglass temple directly without the need for the sleeve. In some implementations, the clip may not include a spring hinge but instead includes an integrally formed member biased to be in a closed configuration and that is urgable into an open configuration to attach the clip to a desired surface.

[0059] Generally, the existing designs and structures for eyeglass adornments are prohibitive because they are neither interchangeable, customizable, nor affordable. For example, adornments (e.g., jewelry or other design structures) are often permanently fixed to a single pair of eyeglasses, preventing customization and forcing a user to purchase a new pair of glasses to accomplish a new style. The systems and devices disclosed herein provide an interchangeable, customizable, and discreet set of adornments in a variety of sizes, colors, styles, and functions to reflect a user’s preference for both function and aesthetics. In some implementations, a flexible sleeve slides over the temple of a pair of eyeglasses, and an attachment having an adornment affixed thereto is coupled to the flexible sleeve. The adornments may be removed and replaced with a different adornment, or the flexible sleeve may be removed and replaced on a different pair of glasses. Various implementations of the systems and devices of this disclosure are interchangeable among the variety of eyewear that a user may own. And, various implementations of the systems and devices of this disclosure allow users to personalize and protect their eyewear.

[0060] FIGS. 1A-1H show an eyeglass accessory 100, according to one implementation. The eyeglass accessory 100 includes a flexible sleeve 110 and a clip 130. The eyeglass accessory 100 shown in FIG. 1A is attached to a pair of eyeglasses 10. Specifically, theeyeglass accessory 100 is coupled to a temple 14 of the frame 12 of the pair of eyeglasses 10. While only one eyeglass accessory 100 is shown on one temple 14, the eyeglass accessory is also attachable to the opposite temple (e.g., a left or a right temple of the eyeglasses). In other implementations, more than one eyeglass accessory may be attached to the eyeglass frame (e.g., two accessories on one temple, or one accessory on each of the two temples).

[0061] FIGS. IB and 1C show the flexible sleeve 110 disposed on the temple 14 without the clip 130. The flexible sleeve 110 includes a first end 112 and a second end 114 opposite and spaced apart from the first end 112 along a sleeve longitudinal axis 111. Each end of the flexible sleeve defines an opening. The first end 112 of the flexible sleeve 110 defines a first opening 116, and the second end 114 of the flexible sleeve 110 defines a second opening 118.

[0062] The flexible sleeve 110 further defines a channel 120 extending from the first opening 116 to the second opening 118 along the sleeve longitudinal axis 111. The channel 120 is sized to receive the temple 14 of the eyeglass frame 12. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the channel 120 is stretchable to have an inner width and height matching the width (WT) and the height (HT) of the temple 14. In other implementations, the channel may be circular with an inner diameter matching a diameter of a circular temple.

[0063] The flexible sleeve 110 includes a material configured to flex to expand the size of the channel 120 and return to (or toward) its original dimensions when the stress is removed. The flexible sleeve 110 can expand from a first size shown in FIGS. 1A-1C to a second, larger size with a larger inner width and / or height (e.g., diameter) of the channel 120. For example, the flexible sleeve 110 can expand to fit over a temple tip 16 of the temple 14. When expanding to fit over the temple tip 16 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the width of the channel 120 may remain substantially the same from the first size to the second size, but the height may increase from the first size to the second size, matching the changed dimensions of the temple tip 16 as compared to those of the temple 14. Once the flexible sleeve 110 is moved passed the temple tip 16, the flexible sleeve 110 contracts such that the channel 120 conforms to the size and dimensions of the temple 14. The material also allows the flexible sleeve to fit over a range of differently- sized temples for different pairs of eyeglasses.

[0064] In other implementations, the flexible sleeve may have dimensions different from those shown. Throughout this disclosure, a dimension shown in the drawings or described in the specification is merely exemplary and does not limit the structure or function of the disclosed device(s). In other implementations, the flexible sleeve may have a length longer orshorter than that shown. In other implementations, the flexible sleeve may have a larger or smaller height and / or width to accommodate a larger or smaller temple of the glasses frame. In other implementations, the flexible sleeve is compatible with thick-framed glasses. In other implementations, the flexible sleeve is compatible with wire-framed glasses. In other implementations, a spacer is provided to provide an adequate retaining force between the temple and the flexible sleeve (e.g., in the case of wire-framed glasses). In other implementations, the flexible sleeve is available in a kit including a plurality of flexible sleeves in various sizes including “extra-small”, “small”, “medium”, “large”, “extra-large”, and “extra-extra-large.”

[0065] The flexible sleeve 110 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C includes a flexible silicon material. However, in other implementations, the flexible sleeve includes a latex material, a thermoplastic elastomer material, a thermoplastic rubber material, a thermoplastic polyurethane material, a polyvinyl chloride material, a neoprene material, or any other of a variety of materials allowing for the expansion of the flexible sleeve and the corresponding contraction to conform to the temple of an eyeglass frame.

[0066] The clip 130 shown in FIG. 1A is shown decoupled and separate from the eyeglasses 10 in FIGS. 1D-1H. In particular, FIG. ID shows a front perspective view of the clip 130, FIG. IE shows a back perspective view of the clip 130, FIG. IF shows a side view of the clip 130, FIG. 1G shows a top view of the clip 130, and FIG. 1H shows a bottom view of the clip 130.

[0067] The clip 130 extends from a first end 132 to a second end 134 opposite and spaced apart from the first end 132 along a clip longitudinal axis 131. The clip 130 includes a base 140 and a movable arm 150 hingably attached to the base 140 via a spring hinge 160. As shown in the first configuration in FIGS. 1D-1H, the base 140 and the movable arm 150 are disposed on opposite sides of the spring hinge 160. As shown in the first configuration in FIGS. 1D-1H, the base 140 and the movable arm 150 lie in planes that are oblique to each.

[0068] The base 140 includes a first end 142 and a second end 144 opposite and spaced apart from the first end 142 along the clip longitudinal axis 131. The first end 142 of the base 140 corresponds to the first end 132 of the clip 130, and the second end 144 of the base 140 corresponds to the second end 134 of the clip 130. The base 140 further includes a first surface 146 and a second surface 148 opposite from the first surface 146. As shown, the first surface 146 faces substantially away from the movable arm 150, and the second surface 148faces substantially towards the movable arm 150. The spring hinge 160 is coupled to and extends out from the second surface 148 of the base 140. In some implementations (not shown), the second surface of the base adjacent the second end includes ridges, contours, knurling, or other surface shapes and / or textures to enhance grip of the clip.

[0069] The movable arm 150 includes a first end 152 and a second end 154 opposite and spaced apart from the first end 152 along the clip longitudinal axis 131. The first end 152 of the movable arm 150 corresponds to the first end 132 of the clip 130, and the second end 154 of the movable arm 150 corresponds to the second end 134 of the clip 130. The movable arm 150 further includes a first surface 156 and a second surface 158 opposite from the first surface 156. As shown, the first surface 156 faces substantially away from the base 140, and the second surface 158 faces substantially toward the base 140. The spring hinge 160 is coupled to and extends out from the second surface 158 of the movable arm 150. In some implementations (not shown), the second surface of the movable arm adjacent the second end includes ridges, contours, knurling, or other surface shapes and / or textures to enhance grip of the clip.

[0070] The spring hinge 160 is disposed closer to the first end 132 than the second end 134 of the clip 130. As shown in FIG. IF, the spring hinge 160 includes two opposing protrusions 164 coupled to and extending out from the second surface 158 of the movable arm 150. The spring hinge 160 also includes two opposing protrusions 162 coupled to and extending out from the second surface 148 of the base 140. The protrusions 164 on the movable arm 150 correspond to the protrusions 162 on the base 140 to form pairs of protrusions 162, 164 on each side of the clip 130. The protrusion 164 extending from the movable arm 150 is shown on the outside of the protrusion 162 extending from the base 140. However, in other implementations (not shown), the protrusion extending from the movable arm is disposed inside of the protrusion extending from the base. The protrusions are coupled together with a spring hinge, which includes a pin that engages the protrusions and a torsion spring that is coupled around the pin. The torsion spring includes arms that extend out and engage the base 140 and the movable arm 150 directly. In other implementations, any other type of spring hinge may be used to couple the base and the movable arm.

[0071] The base 140, the movable arm 150, and the spring hinge 160 therebetween as shown in FIGS. 1A-1H include a stainless- steel material. A silicone backing is coupled to the first surface 146 of the base 140. The silicone backing may be a softer material than the temple 14 to prevent scratching or damaging the temple 14 and to prevent slipping of the base140 relative to the temple 14. In other implementations, the backing can be another material that is softer than the temple and has a higher coefficient of friction than the temple to prevent damage and slipping of the base relative to the temple. In other implementations, the first surface of the base has a higher coefficient of friction than the temple. In other implementations, each element of the clip may include a variety of rigid materials (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, and / or wood).

[0072] The clip 130 is movable between the first, or closed, configuration and the second, or open, configuration. As shown in FIGS. 1D-1H, the clip 130 is in the first configuration. In the first configuration, the second end 144 of the base 140 and the second end 154 of the movable arm 150 abut each other, and the first ends 142, 152 of the base 140 and the movable arm 150 are spaced apart from each other a first distance (DI). Thus, in the first configuration, the base 140 and the movable arm 150 are angled or oblique relative to each other. The spring hinge 160 biases the movable arm 150 into the first configuration.

[0073] To move from the first configuration to the second configuration, the first ends 152, 142 are urged toward each other due to the biasing force of the spring hinge 160. The movable arm 150 rotates about the spring hinge 160, moving the second end 154 of the movable arm 150 away from the second end 144 of the base 140. At the same time, the first end 152 of the movable arm 150 moves closer to the first end 142 of the base 140. In the second configuration, the first ends 142, 152 of the base 140 and the movable arm 150 are spaced apart from each other, such as being spaced apart a second distance that is smaller than the first distance (DI) of the first configuration.

[0074] To move from the second configuration towards the first configuration, the force on the first end 152 of the movable arm 150 is removed, allowing the second ends 144, 154 of the base 140 and the movable arm 150 to move back towards each other. In some implementations, the second end 154 of the movable arm 150 moves only part of the way back towards the second end 144 of the base 140 to define a third, or attached, configuration. In the third configuration, the first end 152 of the movable arm 150 is spaced apart from the first end 142 of the base 140 by a third distance that is smaller than the first distance (DI) but larger than the second distance. For example, if the clip 130 is being attached to a piece of fabric, the spacing between the second ends 144, 154 of the base 140 and the movable arm 150 would correspond to the thickness of the fabric between the ends 144, 154. The fabric would be held by the biasing force of the spring hinge 160.

[0075] The clip 130 is couplable to the flexible sleeve 110 to attach the clip 130 to the temple 14 of the eyeglass frame 12, as shown in FIG. 1A. As shown in FIG. 1A, each of the sleeve longitudinal axis 111 and the clip longitudinal axis 131 are substantially parallel to each other and to the temple 14 of the frame 12.

[0076] The flexible sleeve may be provided in a variety of sizes and implementations. For example, in other implementations, the sleeve is an “extra-large” sized flexible sleeve disposed on an eyeglass frame having a wider and / or thicker size than that shown. In other implementations, the sleeve is an “extra-small” sized flexible sleeve disposed on an eyeglass frame having a narrower and / or thinner size than that shown. In other implementations, the eyeglass accessory further includes a spacer (e.g., a deformable spacer or a rigid, contoured spacer) disposed within the flexible sleeve and adjacent the base of the clip (e.g., to accommodate wire-framed glasses).

[0077] To couple the clip 130 to the flexible sleeve 110, the base 140 is moved into the channel 120 of the flexible sleeve 110 while the movable arm 150 remains outside of the channel 120 of the flexible sleeve 110. Specifically, the second end 144 of the base 140 slides into the first opening 116 on the first end 112 of the flexible sleeve 110. In this arrangement, the base 140 and the temple 14 are within the channel 120 of the flexible sleeve 110, and the first surface 146 of the base 140 is adjacent to and faces an inner surface 22 the temple 14. The second surface 148 of the base 140 faces an interior surface of the flexible sleeve 110. Correspondingly, the first surface 156 of the movable arm 150 faces away from the temple 14 (e.g., towards an opposing temple on the opposite side of the eyeglasses 10), and the second surface 158 of the movable arm 150 faces an outer surface of the flexible sleeve 110.

[0078] In implementations in which the length of the base 140 between the spring hinge 160 and the second end 144 of the base 140 is longer than the length of the channel 120, the base 140 slides through the channel 120 until the second end 144 of the base 140 exits through the second opening 118 on the second end 114 of the flexible sleeve 110. The spring hinge 160 abuts the first opening 116 of the flexible sleeve 110 and prevents the clip 130 from sliding further. Once the second end 144 of the base 140 exits the channel 120, the second end 154 of the movable arm 150 contacts the second end 144 of the base 140, resulting in the first, or closed, configuration of the clip 130. The base 140 is held firmly in place by the flexible sleeve 110, which applies a retaining force around the temple 14 and the base 140. Thus, once the clip 130 is coupled to the flexible sleeve 110, the base 140 is stationary relative to the eyeglasses 10.

[0079] In other implementations, the length of the base between the spring hinge and the second end of the base may be shorter than the length of the channel, and in the first, or closed, configuration of the clip, the second end of the movable arm contacts the sleeve, instead of the second end of the base. In other implementations, the length of the base between the spring hinge and the second end of the base may be such that, in the first, or closed, configuration of the clip, a portion of the movable arm adjacent the second end of the movable arm contacts the sleeve, and the second end of the movable arm is spaced apart from the base.

[0080] Once attached to the flexible sleeve 110, the first end 132 of the clip 130 is closer to a frame hinge 18 of the frame 12, and the second end 134 of the clip 130 is closer to the temple tip 16 of the frame 12. However, in other implementations, the clip may be flipped such that the first end of the clip is closer to the temple tip and the second end of the clip is closer to the frame hinge. Once the clip 130 is coupled to the flexible sleeve 110, the eyeglass accessory 100 is ready for use.

[0081] As is understood in the art, the eyeglasses 10 can be closed by moving the temple 14 towards a lens 20 via rotation about the frame hinge 18. The structure and placement of the eyeglass accessory 100 also avoids interference with the closing of the eyeglasses 10. When the eyeglasses 10 are closed, a user may desire to attach the eyeglasses 10 to the personal material for temporary storage (e.g., a shirt, a pocket, or a purse). For example, a user applies pressure to the first end 132 of the clip 130 (e.g., one finger pressing on the first end 152 of the movable arm 150 and another finger pressing an outer surface 24 of the temple 14 for support). The applied pressure moves the clip 130 from the first configuration to the second configuration such that the second ends 144, 154 of the base 140 and the movable arm 150 move apart from one another, defining a gap therebetween. The gap is configured to accept the personal material therein. For example, a shirt material may be inserted into the gap to be disposed between an outer surface of the flexible sleeve 110 and the second surface 158 of the movable arm 150. Once the personal material is disposed between the outer surface of the flexible sleeve 110 and the second surface 158 of the movable arm 150, the user can release pressure on the first end 152 of the movable arm 150. Releasing the pressure allows the second end 154 of the movable arm 150 to move back towards the second end 144 of the base 140. The thickness of the personal material will prevent the second ends 144, 154 of the base 140 and the movable arm 150 from making contact. Therefore, once the personal material is closed into the clip 130, the clip 130 is arranged in the third, or attached, configuration. Theforce of the spring hinge 160 continues urging the second end 144 of the base 140 towards the second end 154 of the movable arm 150. The spring force (i) retains the personal material within the clip 130 and (ii) retains the eyeglasses 10 onto the personal material.

[0082] FIGS. 2A-2F show an eyeglass accessory 200 that is substantially similar to the eyeglass accessory 100 of FIGS. 1A-1H except as described below. The eyeglass accessory 200 includes the flexible sleeve 110 and a clip 230. The clip 230 includes the base 140, spring hinge 265, and a movable arm 250 that is hingably attached to the base 140 via spring hinge 265. The spring hinge 265 includes protrusions 264 that extend from the movable arm 250 and protrusions 262 that extend from the base 140, a pin (not shown), and a torsion spring 267, similarly to the spring hinge 160 described above.

[0083] The movable arm 250 of the eyeglass accessory 200 includes a first surface 256 and a second surface 258 opposite from the first surface 256. As shown, the first surface 256 faces substantially away from the base 140, and the second surface 258 faces substantially towards the base 140.

[0084] The first surface 256 of the movable arm 250 includes a depressed portion 257 that is beveled relative to an outer perimeter edge 255 of the first surface 256 of the movable arm 250. The depressed portion 257 defines an opening 260 that extends along the direction of the clip longitudinal axis 231 from near the first end 252 to near the second end 254 of the movable arm 250 as shown in the top view of FIG. 2E. In other implementations, the shape of the movable arm and the opening 260 therein may be any other shape having a length longer than a width (e.g., an ellipse, a rectangle, a trapezoid, an obround shape or any suitable regular or irregular shape). In other implementations, the shape of the movable arm does not match the shape of the hole therethrough.

[0085] The eyeglass accessory 200 is fully assembled when the flexible sleeve 110 is disposed on the temple 14 of the eyeglass frame 12 and the base 140 of the clip 230 is disposed within the channel 120 of the flexible sleeve 110. When fully assembled, the clip 230 has the same functionality as the clip 130 of the eyeglass accessory 100.

[0086] When fully assembled, the opening 260 of the movable arm 250 allows a user to view an outer surface of the flexible sleeve 110. For example, a brand name or logo printed on the flexible sleeve 110 may be visible through the opening 260. Other information, colors, or patterns may be printed on the flexible sleeve 110 to be visible through the opening 260. Furthermore, the overall weight of the eyeglass accessory 200 is reduced by the opening 260.

[0087] FIGS. 4A-4E show an example clip 430 that is substantially similar to the clips 130, 230 previously shown and described except as described below. The clip 430 includes a base 440 and a movable arm 450. The base 440 and the movable arm 450 are coupled to each other via a spring hinge 460. The spring hinge 460 includes protrusions 464 that extend from the movable arm 450 and protrusions 462 that extend from the base 440. A pin 465 extends between the pairs of protrusions, and a torsion spring 467 extends around the pin 465.

[0088] The base 440 includes a first portion 442 and a second portion 444 integrally formed with the first portion 442. The first portion 442 has an overall width approximately equal to an overall width of the movable arm 450. However, the base 440 tapers in width from the first portion 442 to the second portion 444 such that the second portion 444 has an overall width smaller than that of the first portion 442.

[0089] In contrast to the movable arms 150, 250 described above, the movable arm 450 includes different sections or portions arranged longitudinally adjacent to each other that lie in different planes than each other. The movable arm 450 includes a first portion 452 that includes, or is coupled to, the spring hinge 460. The movable arm 450 further includes a second portion 454 (also referred to herein as an intermediate portion) integrally formed with and extending from the first portion 452. A first angle a (e.g., an angle greater than 0 degrees, such as an angle in the range of 5-10 degrees) is formed between the first portion 452 and the second portion 454 of the movable arm 450. A second angle 9 (e.g., an angle greater than 0 degrees, such as an angle in the range of 15-30 degrees) is formed between the first portion 452 and the base 440.

[0090] The first angle a between the first portion 452 and the second portion 454, and the second angle 9 between first portion 452 and the base 440, are arranged so that, in the open configuration, the second portion 454 is substantially parallel to the base 440. Additionally, when the clip 430 is in the open configuration with a material placed in the space between the base 440 and the movable arm 450, the second portion 454 is substantially parallel to the base 440. The second portion 454 of the clip 430 is angled relative to the base 440 such that, when holding a material between the base 440 and the movable arm 450, the surface area of the second portion 454 of the movable arm 450 that contacts the material is increased, which increases the holding force on the material. In other implementations wherein the base and the movable arm are nearly parallel in the closed configuration, once the clip is in the open configuration and a material is placed between the movable arm and the base, the movable arm may form an acute angle with the base. In such examples, the contact point between themovable arm and the material placed in the clip may be relatively small or approximate to a single point of contact.

[0091] The movable arm 450 further includes a third portion (or a ramped portion) 456 integrally formed with and extending from the second portion 454. The ramped portion 456 has a ski tip shape. The ramped portion 456 is disposed at a third angle (e.g., an angle greater than 0 degrees, such as an angle in the range 5 to 45 degrees) with respect to the second portion 454 such that, in the closed configuration, a distal space 458 is defined between a distal end the base 440 and the ramped portion 456 of the movable arm 450.

[0092] The distal space 458 provides an area within which the material may engage the clip 430. The distal space 458 allows for the clip 430 to be self-actuating. For example, in the closed configuration, the clip 430 may be translated relative to the material (e.g., a shirt or other article to which the clip 430 will attach), and the material may enter the distal space 458. As the clip 430 continues to translate, the material pushes the ramped portion 456 away from the base 440 - thus moving the clip 430 from the closed configuration towards the open configuration.

[0093] The clip 430’ shown in FIG. 4E is similar to clip 430 describe above but further includes an indicia or a marking 480 on the second portion 454’ of the movable arm 450’ . The marking 480 may be a logo, a picture, a trademark, a word, or any other marking. The marking 480 may convey information or may be aesthetic. The marking 480 may be placed on the clip 430 via etching, printing, painting, or any other common manufacturing or finishing process. Clip 430’ also includes a through pin 460’ as part of the spring hinge that extends past the width of the movable arm of the clip 430’ .

[0094] FIGS. 4F-4I show an example clip 470 that is substantially similar to the clip 430 of FIGS. 4A-4D, except as described below. The clip 470 includes the base 440 and movable arm 490. The base 440 and the movable arm 490 are coupled to each other via a spring hinge, similar to the spring hinge 460.

[0095] The movable arm 490 of the clip 470 includes a first portion 492, a second portion 494, and a third portion or ramped portion 496. Additionally, the movable arm 490 of the clip 470 includes a fourth portion 472 on an end of the movable arm 490 opposite from the third or ramped portion 496. The fourth portion 472 is disposed on an opposite side of the hinge spring as the ramped portion 496. The fourth portion 472 is integrally formed with, and extends from, the first portion 492 in a longitudinal direction opposite from the secondportion 494. A fourth angle p is formed between the fourth portion 472 and the first portion 492 of the movable arm 450. For example, the fourth angle may be greater than 0 and less than 180 degrees (e.g., between 20 and 45 degrees).

[0096] The fourth portion 472 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the base 440. As shown in FIG. 41, the fourth portion 472 includes the surface of the movable arm 450 that is furthest away from the base 440 in the closed configuration. However, in other implementations, a different portion of the movable arm may extend further away from the base.

[0097] The fourth portion 472 provides a relatively flat surface on the movable arm 450, facilitating engagement of the clip 470 by a user. For example, in the closed configuration, the fourth portion 472 being substantially parallel to the flat base 440 provides a user with an area of the clip 470 that is easily pinched to (i) rotate the third portion 496 of the movable arm 450 about the spring hinge and (ii) move the clip from the closed configuration to the open configuration. In other implementations, the fourth portion, or a similar flat portion of the movable arm, may be combined with or modified by another example clip device or system of the present disclosure.

[0098] FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of an attachment 300 for eyeglasses 10, and FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of the attachment 300 coupled to the eyeglasses 10, according to another implementation. The attachment 300 includes an adornment 310 coupled to an adornment base 320.

[0099] The adornment base 320 includes a first end 322 and a second end 324 opposite and spaced apart from the first end 322 along a base longitudinal axis 321. The adornment base 320 further includes a first surface 326 and a second surface 328 opposite from the first surface 326. The adornment base 320 is a generally flat piece of stainless steel. However, in other implementations, the adornment base includes a variety of rigid materials (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, ferromagnetic metals, plastic, and / or wood).

[0100] The adornment 310 generally includes a front side 312 and a back side 314. The adornment 310 is coupled to the first surface 326 of the adornment base 320 on the first end 322 of the adornment base 320. For example, in some implementations, the back side 314 of the adornment 310 is welded or otherwise permanently affixed to the first surface 326 of the adornment base 320. However, in other implementations, the adornment and the adornment base are integrally formed. In other implementations, the adornment is removably coupled tothe adornment base by a fastener (e.g., via one or more magnets, an adhesive, a clip, a hook, hook and loop material, a threaded post and nut, or a post with a post-back, a screw-back, or a lock-back, as are used in earring backings and fastening mechanisms) such that a different adornment may be coupled to the same adornment base or a different adornment base may be coupled to the same adornment.

[0101] The attachment 300 is configured to be used with the eyeglass accessories herein described. For example, the attachment 300 is compatible with the flexible sleeve 110 and the clips 130, 230, 430, 470 described above in relation to FIGS. 1A-2F and 4A-4I. FIG. 3B shows the flexible sleeve 110 coupled to the temple 14 of the eyeglasses 10 with the attachment 300 coupled to the flexible sleeve 110 adjacent the outer surface 24 of temple 14 (i.e., the side of the temple 14 opposite from the side to which the clip 130, 230, 430, 430’, 470 may be coupled).

[0102] The adornment base 320 is slidable into the flexible sleeve 110. To couple the attachment 300 to the flexible sleeve 110, the second end 324 of the adornment base 320 is moved into the first opening 116 on the first end 112 of the flexible sleeve 110. In this arrangement, the first surface 326 of the adornment base 320 faces an inner surface of the flexible sleeve 110, and the second surface 328 of the adornment base 320 faces the outer surface 24 of the temple 14. The adornment base 320 slides within the channel 120 until the adornment 310 abuts the first end 112 of the flexible sleeve 110. Thus, the adornment base 320 is disposed within the channel 120 with the temple 14. If the clip 130, 230, 430, 430’, 470 is also coupled to the temple 14, the base 140, 240, 440 is also disposed within the channel 120 and on an opposite side of the temple 14 from the adornment base 320. As shown in FIG. 3B, the adornment base 320 is not long enough to extend through the channel 120 and out of the second opening 118 on the second end 114 of the flexible sleeve 110. However, in other implementations, the adornment base is longer and does extend through the entirety of the channel of the flexible sleeve.

[0103] Once the adornment base 320 is disposed within the channel 120, the flexible sleeve 110 firmly retains the adornment base 320 in place. Therefore, the attachment 300, including the adornment 310, is coupled to, and stationary relative to, the eyeglasses 10. The front side 312 faces outwardly away from the flexible sleeve 110 and the temple 14 of the eyeglasses 10.

[0104] Generally, the adornment may be any aesthetic and / or functional body couplable to a pair of eyeglasses. The adornment may be a jewelry piece, an art piece, a logo, a drawing, a symbol, a light, a glow-in-the-dark item, a GPS-enabled wireless device, a speaker, a microphone, or any other aesthetic and / or functional body couplable to a pair of eyeglasses. For example, the adornment 310 in FIGS. 3A-3B is a heart-shaped lapis stone. However, in other implementations, the adornment includes 14-karat gold, rose gold, diamonds, quartz, or any other precious or semi-precious stones.

[0105] FIG. 5A shows an image of a clip 500 that is integrally formed with the temple 522 of a pair of eyeglasses 520, and FIG. 5B shows an exploded view of the integrally formed clip 500. The clip 500 includes a movable arm 502 (shown in an angled configuration, similar to the clip of FIGS. 4A-4I). The clip 500 further includes a spring hinge 504 coupled to an end portion 506 of the movable arm 502 in a manner substantially similar to other implementations disclosed herein. However, rather than including a separate base element, the temple 522 of the eyeglasses 520 serves as the base of the clip 500. A corresponding portion of the spring hinge 504 is coupled to the temple 522. Thus, the movable arm 502 is hingably coupled to the temple 522 via the spring hinge 504, and the spring hinge 504 biases the movable arm 502 towards the temple 522. The movable arm 502 moves away from the temple 522 when pressure is applied to the end portion 506 of the movable arm 502 (e.g., from a closed configuration to an open configuration). The clip 500 is not coupled to the eyeglasses using a sleeve, as is described above in relation to FIGS. 1A-1H, but a sleeve may be used with this implementation to receive an accessory, such as those described in relation to FIGS. 3A-3B or another clip such as those described herein.

[0106] In some implementations, the clip is manufactured from the same material and by the same process as the temple of the eyeglasses (e.g., metal or plastic molding processes). For example, both the temple and the movable arm of the clip may include a wire material, acrylic material, or other plastic material.

[0107] In some implementations, the dimensions and / or geometry of the temple correspond to the dimensions and / or geometry of the movable arm of the clip. For example, the width and / or thickness of the temple may match the movable arm. In other examples, the width and / or thickness of the temple may be smaller or larger than that of the movable arm.

[0108] In some implementations, a post, bracket, or other supportive member is coupled to the movable arm via the spring hinge 504. The post, bracket, or supportive member isintegrally formed or molded with the temple of the eyeglasses. In such examples, the post, bracket, or supportive member provides additional structural support for the movable arm when moving between the open and closed configurations.

[0109] In other implementations, the clip is integrally formed with the temple of the eyeglasses (e.g., see FIGS. 6A-6B). For example, the clip 630 may be permanently or semipermanently coupled to the temple 14 of the eyeglasses 10. The clip 630 is not coupled to the eyeglasses using a sleeve, as is described above in relation to FIGS. 1A-1H, but a sleeve may be used with this implementation to receive an accessory, such as those described in relation to FIGS. 3A-3B or another clip such as the clips described herein. In some implementations, the clip 630 is manufactured from the same material and by the same process as the temple 14 of the eyeglasses 10 (e.g., metal or plastic molding processes) such that the movable arm 650 of the clip 630 is integrally formed with the temple 14 of the eyeglasses 10. In such examples, the clip 630 does not include a base as with the implementations described in relation to FIGS. 1A-2F and 4A-4I because the temple of the eyeglasses functions as the base from which the movable arm may be urged between an open and a closed configuration. The movable arm 650 has a first end 652 and a second end 654 spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the movable arm 650. The clip 630 further includes an end portion 653 that is integrally formed with the temple 14 and extends between the temple 14 and the first end 652 of the movable arm, which creates a gap between the first end 652 and the temple 14. The second end 654 is biased toward the temple 14.

[0110] The second end 654 of the movable arm 650 can be urged away from the temple 14 of the eyeglasses 10 with a force that pushes the second end 654 away from the temple 14, and when the force is removed, the second end 654 of the movable arm 650 is biased toward the temple 14. As shown in FIG. 6B, the second end 654 of the movable arm 650 has a main portion 654a and ramped portion 654b that are oblique to each other such that ramped portion 654b extends away from the temple 14, creating a distal space between the end of the ramped portion 654b and the temple 14. The main portion 654a adjacent to the ramped portion 654b contacts the temple 14 or a personal material or other object to which the clip 630 is attached. The ramped portion 654b allows the clip 630 to be coupled to the personal material or other surface by urging the material between the ramped portion 654b and the temple 14.

[0111] In operation, the eyeglass accessory, such as accessories 100, 200, 300, 430, 430’, 470, 500, 630 described above, remains adjacent, and substantially parallel to, the temple 14 of the frame 12, allowing a user to don and doff the eyeglasses 10 without interference.

[0112] The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown in the various implementations are illustrative only. Although only a few implementations have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative implementations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the implementations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0113] It is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to specific methods or specific components. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0114] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another implementation includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another implementation. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0115] “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0116] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of’ and is not intended to convey an indication ofa preferred or ideal implementation. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

[0117] Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific implementation or combination of implementations of the disclosed methods.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An eyeglass accessory comprising: a flexible sleeve defining a channel, the flexible sleeve configured to slide on and off a temple of an eyeglass frame; and a clip having a base and a movable arm hingably attached to the base, the base being slidable into the channel of the flexible sleeve to couple the clip to the temple of the eyeglass frame, wherein the movable arm is disposed outside of the channel.

2. The eyeglass accessory of claim 1, wherein the clip comprises a spring hinge disposed adjacent a first end of the base and the movable arm and coupled to the base and the movable arm, wherein the spring hinge biases a second end of the movable arm toward a second end of the base.

3. The eyeglass accessory of claim 2, wherein an intermediate portion of the movable arm between the spring hinge and the second end of the movable arm abuts an outer surface of the flexible sleeve in a closed configuration, and wherein the second end of the movable arm is spaced apart from the second end of the base in an open configuration and the closed configuration.

4. The eyeglass accessory of claim 3, wherein a first end portion of the movable arm between the spring hinge and the first end of the movable arm extends transverse to the intermediate portion of the movable arm.

5. The eyeglass accessory of claim 4, wherein the first end portion of the movable arm extends parallel to the base in the closed configuration.

6. The eyeglass accessory of claim 4, wherein the first end portion of the movable arm extends transverse to the base in the closed configuration.

7. The eyeglass accessory of claim 2, wherein a first end portion of the movable arm between the spring hinge and the first end of the movable arm and an intermediate portion of the movable arm between the spring hinge and the second end of the movable arm extend in a same plane.

8. The eyeglass accessory of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a first portion and a second portion that is integrally formed with the first portion, wherein the first portion has a first width and the second portion has a second width that is less than the first width.

9. The eyeglass accessory of claim 8, wherein the first width of the first portion is equal to a width of the movable arm.

10. The eyeglass accessory of any of the above claims, further comprising: an adornment base slidable into the channel of the flexible sleeve, wherein the adornment base is couplable to an adornment.

11. The eyeglass accessory of claim 10, wherein the adornment base is removably couplable to the adornment.

12. An eyeglass accessory system comprising: an eyeglass temple; and a clip having a movable arm hingably coupled to the eyeglass temple, wherein an end of the movable arm is movable relative to the eyeglass temple between an open configuration, in which the end of the movable arm is spaced apart a first distance from the eyeglass temple, and a closed configuration, in which the end of the movable arm is a second distance from the eyeglass temple, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance, wherein the end of the movable arm is a second end of the movable arm, and a first end of the movable arm is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple.

13. The eyeglass accessory system of claim 12, wherein the first end of the movable arm is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple through an end portion of the clip, the end portion ofthe clip being directly integrally formed with the eyeglass temple and the first end of the movable arm, the end portion extending between the first end of the movable arm and the eyeglass temple and defining a gap between the first end of the movable arm and the eyeglass temple, wherein the second end of the movable arm is biased toward the eyeglass temple and is pivotable about the end portion to move between the open and the closed configurations.

14. The eyeglass accessory system of claim 13, wherein the second distance is greater than 0.

15. The eyeglass accessory system of any of claims 12-14, further comprising an adornment base that is removably couplable to an adornment, wherein the adornment base is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple.

16. An eyeglass accessory system comprising: an eyeglass temple; a support integrally formed with the eyeglass temple, wherein a spring hinge is coupled to the support; and a clip having a movable arm hingably coupled to the spring hinge, wherein an end of the movable arm is movable relative to the eyeglass temple between an open configuration, in which the end of the movable arm is spaced apart a first distance from the eyeglass temple, and a closed configuration, in which the end of the movable arm is a second distance from the eyeglass temple, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance.

17. The eyeglass accessory system of claim 16, wherein the end of the movable arm is a second end, and the movable arm has a first end opposite the second end along a longitudinal axis of the movable arm, wherein a first end portion extends between the first end of the movable arm and the spring hinge, and the first end portion extends parallel to the eyeglass temple in the closed configuration.

18. The eyeglass accessory system of claim 16, wherein the end of the movable arm is a second end, and the movable arm has a first end opposite the second end along a longitudinal axis of the movable arm, wherein a first end portion extends between the first end of the movablearm and the spring hinge, wherein the first end portion of the movable arm extends transverse to the eyeglass temple in the closed configuration.

19. The eyeglass accessory system of claim 16, wherein the movable arm extends in a plane that is transverse to the eyeglass temple in the closed configuration.

20. The eyeglass accessory system of any of claims 16-19, wherein the second distance is greater than 0.

21. The eyeglass accessory system of claim 16, wherein the second distance is greater than 0.

22. The eyeglass accessory system of any of claims 16-21, further comprising an adornment base that is removably couplable to an adornment, wherein the adornment base is integrally formed with the eyeglass temple.

Images