Headgear

Abstract

The invention relates to a headgear (1) comprising a visor (2) and a device for securing the visor (2) at a distance over the head (3) of a wearer, wherein the securing device includes: - a headband (9) which is worn around the head (3), namely around the forehead (7) and the back of the head (8), in a use position, - a holding arm (10) which is secured to the headband (9) and holds the visor (2), and - a support (11) which, in the use position, is positioned between the visor (2) and the head (3), sits on the head (3), and supports the visor (2).

Description

[0001] Headgear

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] The invention relates to a headgear comprising a visor and a device for fastening the visor at a distance above the head of a wearer.

[0004] The screen serves to protect against direct and indirect

[0005] Sunlight. Depending on the size and shape of the umbrella, other parts of the body, such as the neck, shoulders, and head, can be more or less covered and shaded.

[0006] The term "use position" refers to the position in which the headgear is usually worn on the head by the end user. In other words, the headgear is "in use position" if this position represents a common way of wearing the headgear.

[0007] Over the years, various head coverings have been proposed to protect against sun exposure:

[0008] US 3,585,643 A (Ruby A. Ryan) describes a sun hat having a disc 10 having a diameter larger than the head to provide shade for the head, and provided with fastening means arranged to hold the disc 10 flat on the head. The head fastening means comprise, in one embodiment (Figs. 1-3), a flexible headband 12 and a pair of flexible straps 16 and 18, the opposite ends 20 of which are attached to the headband 12. A central portion of the straps is slidably guided through slots 22 and 23 in the disc 10, whereby the disc 10 can be adjusted to various angular positions on the head by relative translation along the straps 16 and 18. Preferably, the disc 10 is made of a lightweight but structurally stable material, such as expanded or foamed plastic.

[0009] Ruby A. Ryan's sun hat impresses with its simplicity. Nevertheless, sun hats of this type have not yet established themselves on the market. One reason for this is likely the cumbersome handling of the headgear. Handling is complicated due to the flexible straps 16 and 18, requiring the use of both hands. The distance of the disc 10 from the wearer's head is fixed and limited by the fact that the disc 10 rests against the head. To still effectively cool the head through convection, the inventor proposes designing the visor as a flat disc 10. However, this shape is not well suited to protecting the wearer's head from direct and diffuse solar radiation.

[0010] US 4,109,322 A (Charlotte A. Ott) describes a sun shield 10 consisting of a flat, heat-insulating protective element 11 that is held above the head 15 of a wearer by means of an arm 13. The arm 13 is pivotally attached to a headband 12 and, at the other end, is pivotally connected to the insulating element 11, so that the insulating element 11 can be moved by adjusting the arm 13 and rotating the headband 12 to shade the wearer's head 15 from above and from all sides. The headband 12 includes an elongated, arcuate plastic part 16 to which the arm 13 is pivotally connected. The flat protective element 11 may be made of any suitable lightweight material, but is preferably made of a non-heat-conductive material such as thin, elastic plastic, paper, foam rubber or the like, with sufficient thickness to retain its shape and provide good protection from the sun.The arm 13 is essentially formed from a thin strip of elastic plastic.

[0011] Charlotte A. Ott's sun shield represents a remarkable advancement in that the distance of the flat protective element 11 to the wearer's head 15 is no longer limited as in the previously described case, but can be freely adjusted by changing the length of the arm 13. This allows the wearer's head 15 to be cooled much more effectively by convection. However, this sun shield has not yet established itself on the market.

[0012] US 4,109,322 A teaches that the protective element 11 should be flat. As already pointed out earlier, a flat or level shape is not well suited to protecting the wearer's head from direct and diffuse solar radiation. Certainly, someone could object that, in this specific case, the protective element 11 could be adjusted almost arbitrarily by adjusting the arm 13 and rotating the headband 12 in order to shade the wearer's head 15 from above and from all sides. However, this involves considerable effort: the wearer of the sun shield must continually adjust the protective element 11 to ensure optimal protection from solar radiation. However, these constant adjustments would quickly tire the average end user. The flat shape of the protective element 11 also means that the distance to the headband 12 is relatively large. Only an arm 13 of appropriate length can bridge this distance.However, such a long arm 13 is detrimental to the stability of the structure, especially if it is formed from a thin strip of elastic plastic, as proposed.

[0013] To securely attach the protective element 11 to the head, it is proposed to design the headband 12 as an elastic rubber band 17. The elastic rubber band 17 can be flexibly pre-tensioned, thus ensuring a secure fit on the head. On the other hand, the rubber band 17 can quickly create a feeling of tightness in the wearer, which significantly impairs wearing comfort and is therefore considered a significant defect.

[0014] US 4,114,201 A (Harold K. Garrison) describes in one embodiment (Figs. 9-10) a hat having a central crown portion, generally designated C, with a brim 80 extending therearound and with an upper brim 80a positioned over the lower brim 80 and also extending around the crown portion C.

[0015] Furthermore, as shown, a hatband portion 81 extends around the wearer's head. A sweatband 23a is provided to support the hat on the wearer's head. Such sweatband 23a extends partially around the circumference of the hatband portion 81 and can also extend around the full circumference if desired.

[0016] A plurality of upwardly and inwardly curved struts 83 are arranged at circumferential intervals around the circumference of the hatband portion 81 to support the upper brim 80a and simultaneously form a plurality of circumferential air inlets or vents 85 which allow air to enter, move within, and exit the crown C.

[0017] The hat may be formed from a lightweight plastic foam material such as Styrofoam or the like and may consist of an integral one-piece construction.

[0018] The hatband section 81, as mentioned, extends around the wearer's head and serves to support the hat on the head via the sweatband 23a. Since heads vary considerably in size and shape, the hat must be offered in various sizes and, in the case of a different head shape, must also be adjusted to fit them. Today's end consumer often has neither the patience nor the leisure to adjust a hat to their head shape. If the retailer provided this service, the associated effort would ultimately lead to an increase in the price of the headgear.

[0019] There is also a concern that the hat band portion 81 which fits tightly to the head, especially if it is made of Styrofoam or the like as proposed, could impair air circulation around the head and the removal and evaporation of perspiration.

[0020] WO 87 / 01014 A1 (Anthony James Jephson Emmett) describes a hat

[0021] 10 comprising a hat body 11 with a circumferential brim 12. Near the junction 13 between them, a headband 14 is provided, which is placed around the wearer's forehead. Spacers 15 secure the headband 14 at intervals on the lower inner periphery 16 of the hat body 11, thereby forming ventilation openings 17 between the wearer's head and the hat body 11. The hat body

[0022] 11 comprises a lower body portion 18 and an upper crown portion 19, which, as best shown in Fig. 6, are connected to each other via inclined supports 32 to form passage openings 20. The passage openings 20 allow air to flow from the inside of the hat to the outside. This allows air heated by the wearer's head to flow upwards within the hat body 11 through the lower ventilation openings 17 and, below the crown portion 19, to the outside of the hat through the passage openings 20 to cool the wearer's head.

[0023] The hat 10 can be supported by any suitable means effective to maintain the distance from the wearer's head. Furthermore, no further details are given regarding the spacers 15. It is also unclear how the spacers 15 are connected to the hat body 11 on the one hand and the headband 14 on the other.

[0024] It is clear that heads vary considerably in size and shape. The spacers 15 must therefore be adapted to the respective head size and shape in each individual case and connected to the hat body 11 and the headband 14. Apart from the fact that there is uncertainty about how this adaptation and the joining of the parts should be carried out—WO 87 / 01014 A1 provides no information on this—the associated effort would be considerable and unreasonable for the average end user.

[0025] WO 87 / 01014 A1 teaches that the headband 14 could alternatively be omitted. In this case, the spacers 15 support the hat body 11 directly against the wearer's head. However, this does not reduce the effort required to adjust the spacers 15.

[0026] The inadequate disclosure regarding the spacers 15 raises fundamental questions about the feasibility of the invention. The invention is based on the object of eliminating the previously identified disadvantages of the arrangements known from the prior art. In particular, the invention is based on the object of designing headgear of the type mentioned above such that it has a secure and stable hold on the head, offers a high level of comfort, and is easy to use and handle. The headgear should be lightweight, consist of only a few parts, and be cost-effective to manufacture. The headgear should also be easily adaptable to a specific head size and shape. Finally, the air circulation around the head, and thus convective cooling, should be impaired as little as possible by the device for attaching the visor.

[0027] The task is solved by the fastening device comprising: a headband worn around the head, namely around the forehead and back of the head, in the position of use, a holding arm attached to the headband and holding the visor, as well as a

[0028] A support arranged on the head, sitting on the head and supporting the umbrella.

[0029] According to the invention, the fastening device comprises a holding arm and a support. This formulation naturally includes the presence of multiple holding arms and / or supports.

[0030] The term "support arm" does not restrict the shape or design of the support arm in any way. It encompasses both elongated and slender as well as compact and squat shapes. While the umbrella is primarily attached to the head and held above the head by means of the headband and support arm, the support serves to provide additional support for the umbrella. Unlike the support arm, the support can only transmit supporting forces. However, its effect should not be underestimated. The support can noticeably increase wearing comfort because it allows the headband to sit more loosely on the head. Without a support, the weight of the headgear could only be kept in equilibrium by static friction between the headband and the head. Static friction, however, can only be created by tightening the headband, which can make the wearer feel tight.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the attachment of the support arm to the headband is arranged at the forehead in the use position. Advantageously, the support rests on the front of the head in the use position.

[0032] If several holding arms or supports are present, the above-mentioned characteristics apply to all these holding arms and / or supports.

[0033] The term “front head 1 Refers to the front part of the head, which lies in front of the highest point of the head when the head is upright. The head is divided into the forecranium and the occipital region.

[0034] The targeted arrangement of the fastening elements, as previously explained, creates ideal conditions for statics and stability. Furthermore, it has favorable effects on the handling of the headgear.

[0035] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, only a single support arm is provided. A support arm that branches into multiple branches is considered a single support arm. Furthermore, it is considered in accordance with the invention that only a single support is provided. The reduced component structure is associated with low weight and low manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the airflow around the head is only slightly impeded, leading to more effective cooling of the head.

[0036] Supports arranged in a mirror image on both sides of the head in the position of use are also to be considered as being in accordance with the invention.

[0037] The mirror image refers to the imaginary plane that divides the head into mirror-image halves. This arrangement helps to center and stabilize the headgear on the wearer's head and ensure its secure fit.

[0038] In a further development of the invention, the screen consists essentially of foam and forms at least part of the support arm. It can also be provided that the screen consists essentially of foam and forms at least part of the support.

[0039] The integral foam construction makes the headgear lightweight and simplifies its production.

[0040] According to the invention, the umbrella has a holder for the support. This holder serves to accommodate the support. Furthermore, it helps to apply the support correctly in the intended location.

[0041] Advantageously, the support can be selected from a range of supports of different lengths. This ability to select the support from a range enables the end user to choose the support that best suits their needs and thus optimally adapt the headgear to their individual head size and shape. Alternatively, the support can be provided with an adjustable length. While the adjustment mechanism required for this increases the complexity and manufacturing effort of the headgear, it simplifies its use and handling.

[0042] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least the part of the support that rests on the head in the wear position has a porous structure. This porous structure lends the support a light weight and a high coefficient of friction, with the effect that not only normal forces, i.e., forces perpendicular to the head surface, but also, to a greater extent, tangential forces can be transmitted in the contact area. This can further relieve the headband's load and further increase wearing comfort.

[0043] It's particularly beneficial if the porous structure is open-pored. Open-pored structures can absorb sweat and wick it away, storing it, and releasing it again through evaporation. These structures also contribute to cooling the head, since evaporation always involves heat removal from the environment.

[0044] According to the invention, the porous structure is formed by one of the following materials: open-cell foam, felt, fleece, cotton wool, or textile. These materials are characterized by their high conformability and thus improve wearing comfort.

[0045] According to the invention, the headband essentially consists of a textile band. Textile materials such as woven or nonwoven fabrics ensure a high level of comfort of the headband by adapting flexibly to the shape of the head, ensuring even pressure distribution on the head, regulating moisture, and providing a pleasant feel. The invention is explained in more detail below using an exemplary embodiment illustrated in the figures. They show:

[0046] Fig. 1-4 the headgear according to the invention in its position of use in different views;

[0047] Fig. 5 shows the headgear in its position of use in a sectional view according to the cutting line AA in Fig. 4;

[0048] Fig. 6 shows the headgear in the same sectional view as Fig. 5, but shown larger;

[0049] Fig. 7 shows detail E in Fig. 6, namely the holding arm and its connection to the headband, a plastic sleeve forming the connecting means;

[0050] Fig. 8 is a sectional view along the cutting line BB in Fig. 7;

[0051] Fig. 9 the plastic sleeve including threaded headband in an isometric view;

[0052] Fig. 10 the plastic sleeve in an isometric view from the side facing the head;

[0053] Fig. 11 the screen in an isometric view;

[0054] Fig. 12 the umbrella including plastic sleeve and support in the same isometric view as Fig. 11 ;

[0055] Fig. 13 shows the fully assembled and ready-to-use headgear in the same isometric view as Figs. 11 and 12;

[0056] Fig. 14 shows the headgear in another isometric view. Figs. 1-4 show the headgear 1 according to the invention in its use position in different views. The headgear 1 includes a visor 2 made of foam, which has a circular shape in the form of a bowl or dish. As Fig. 5 shows, the visor 2 surrounds the head 3 of a wearer and, in the use position, is arranged at a distance above the head 3 such that the bowl base 4 is opposite the vertex 5, i.e. the uppermost part of the head 3. In order not to restrict the wearer's field of vision too much, the front visor edge 6 is raised slightly, as shown in Fig. 3.

[0057] As can be seen in Fig. 5, the attachment of the screen 2 to the head 3 is carried out by means of the following attachment elements: a headband 9 which is worn around the head 3, namely around the forehead 7 and the back of the head 8, in the position of use, a holding arm 10 which is attached to the headband 9 and holds the screen 2, and a support 11 which is arranged between the screen 2 and the head 3, sits on the head 3 and supports the screen 2 in the position of use.

[0058] In the described embodiment, the shield 2 forms the holding arm 10. Specifically, the shield 2 forms a raised portion 10 which, in the position of use, extends to the forehead 7, where it is connected to the headband 9.

[0059] The elevation 10 holds the visor 2 in its use position above the wearer's head 3 and simultaneously acts as a spacer by creating a gap or gap 12 between the visor 2 and the head 3. The gap 12 serves to facilitate air circulation around the wearer's head 3. Ambient air can thus directly reach and cool the wearer's head 3. Cooling occurs partly through convection and partly through evaporation of sweat. The sweat evaporates directly on the scalp, removing heat from it, which ultimately results in the cooling effect. The resulting water vapor is carried away by the surrounding ambient air, causing the water vapor partial pressure near the scalp to drop. This further promotes evaporation and enhances the cooling effect.

[0060] While the umbrella 2 is primarily held above the head 3 by the support arm 10—in this case, by the raised portion 10—the support 11 merely serves to provide additional support for the umbrella 2 on the head 3. Unlike the support arm 10, the support 11 can only transmit supporting forces. However, its contribution as a fastening element should not be underestimated. If positioned correctly, it can even keep the umbrella 2 balanced on the head 3 entirely by itself.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 5, the support 11 rests on the front of the head in the in-use position. On the visor side, it is positioned next to the raised portion 10. Due to the targeted arrangement of the raised portion 10 and the support 11, the forces are predominantly transferred to the front of the head, resulting in favorable effects for the statics, stability, and handling of the headgear 1.

[0062] As the figures show, only a single protrusion 10 and a single support 11 are provided to attach the umbrella 2 to the head 3. This only slightly impedes air circulation around the head 3.

[0063] Since the elevation 10 is formed by the screen 2, it is made of the same foam as the latter. The screen 2 and the elevation 10 therefore form an integral one-piece construction, which is preferably produced by foam molding. During foam molding, pre-foamed particles are sintered into molded parts, usually under steam, but more recently also steamless using electromagnetic waves. The raw material, i.e. the foam particles or beads, can be obtained, for example, from JSP Corporation (JSP), Shin-nisseki Building, 3-4-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005 Japan, or from its subsidiaries. JSP markets such raw material under the trademarks ARPAK® and ARPRO®, where ARPAK® refers to expanded polyethylene (EPE) and ARPRO® refers to expanded polypropylene (EPP). The screen 2 including the elevation 10 can, for example, be molded on automatic molding machines from Kurtz GmbH & Co.KG, Frankenstraße 2, 97892 Kreuzwertheim, Germany.

[0064] It has proven particularly advantageous to process foam beads with a bulk density of 12 to 35 grams per liter. These are the lightest beads commercially available today. Molded parts or visors 2 made from them are comparatively pliable and soft, feel warm to the touch, and are most similar to clothing in terms of feel. Headwear is considered a type of clothing. The haptic properties of a headwear product can determine whether a consumer accepts or rejects it.

[0065] It is surprising that even when using particularly lightweight foam types of lowest density and strength, a single elevation 10 is sufficient to securely hold even larger visors 2 on the headband 9, whereby it is advantageous if the elevation 10 has a compact shape. In the exemplary embodiment of the invention shown here, the elevation 10 has a hump-like shape. The hump-like shape contributes to the stability of the structure. This is due to the compact shape that is typical of hump-like elevations. However, the invention is not limited to the hump-like elevation 10. The elevation 10 can also have a different shape.

[0066] 7 and 8 show the elevation 10 – in this specific case the hump-like elevation 10 – and its connection to the headband 9 in detail. Fig. 7 refers to Fig. 6 by showing detail E on an enlarged scale. As can be seen from Fig. 7, the elevation 10 is hollowed out, i.e., has a recess 13. In this specific case, the hollowing out of the elevation 10 takes place from the side of the visor facing away from the head 3, but can in principle take place from any side. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, the recess 13 approximately follows the shape of the elevation 10. In this special case, the elevation 10 can also be considered a protuberance. However, the shape and size of the recess 13 can vary. By hollowing out the elevation 10, an accumulation of material can be avoided and the cycle time during foam molding can be reduced. Access to the recess 13 is closed with a cover 14. The lid 14 may bear a logo or trademark on its outside.

[0067] The elevation 10 – in this specific case, the hump-like elevation 10 – forms a lateral surface or casing 15 on its surface. The end of the hump-like elevation 10 is flattened, but could also be round. The hump-like elevation 10 is connected to the headband 9 via a sleeve, preferably a plastic sleeve 16, on the side of the casing 15 facing the head 3 in the position of use. The plastic sleeve 16 is preferably manufactured by injection molding, although it may be advantageous to design the plastic sleeve 16 in two parts and to join the two halves, for example, by ultrasonic welding. The headband 9 is threaded or can be threaded through the plastic sleeve 16, i.e., is detachably connected to the visor 2. The headband 9 can therefore be removed from the headgear 1 if it becomes unusable or needs to be cleaned.

[0068] The headband 9 consists of a flat, flexible, preferably textile band, for example, a woven webbing, whose cross-section essentially corresponds to the opening of the plastic sleeve 16 through which the headband 9 is threaded or can be threaded. The connection between the headband 9 and the plastic sleeve 16 is thus a positive connection. The wall of the plastic sleeve 16 can be generously perforated for the purposes of ventilation and weight reduction. Fig. 9 shows the plastic sleeve 16 with the threaded headband 9. Fig. 10 shows the plastic sleeve 16 and its two-part structure in detail.

[0069] The plastic sleeve 16 extends flat over the casing 15 of the raised portion 10 and is firmly bonded to the foam. This bond can be adhesively bonded. However, it is preferably welded, primarily because it allows for greater strength. The bond with the comparatively stiff plastic sleeve 16 reinforces, i.e., reinforces, the foam in this area.

[0070] The plastic sleeve 16 overlaps the headband 9 in the use position only at the forehead 7. In this context, reference is also made to Figs. 1 and 4, from which the arrangement is already clearly evident, even if the view of the plastic sleeve 16 is obscured. The arrangement has the effect that the headgear 1 can be manufactured in a standard size, at least for adults, and the adjustment of the headgear 1 to an individual head size and shape can be achieved primarily by means of the headband 9 by adjusting its length. The headband 9 is equipped with an adjustment mechanism for this purpose. This can consist, for example, of a buckle such as a ladder buckle, clamp buckle, clamp-ladder buckle, or a hook-and-loop fastener. Such adjustment and fastening elements are commercially available. The adjustment mechanism is not shown in the figures.

[0071] However, the arrangement has even further potential: Through targeted design of the elevation 10 and the plastic sleeve 16, the structural properties of the headgear 1 can be adapted to those of a baseball cap. The compact shape of the hump-like elevation 10 stiffens the visor 2 in the front visor area. The plastic sleeve 16 also has a slight curvature on the side facing the head 3 in the position of use, which follows the contour of the forehead 7. The inner region of the plastic sleeve 16, which forms a positive connection with the headband 9, is also curved accordingly. The curvature is thus also transferred to the headband 9. The headgear 1 is thus given a specific shape on the forehead 7, which replicates the contour of the forehead 7. Designed in this way, the headgear 1 bears similarities to baseball caps, whose comparatively stiff visor also follows the contour of the forehead. The headgear 1 can therefore be handled like a baseball cap.Considering that baseball caps are the most widely used headgear in Western countries, it becomes clear how advantageous it is to be able to maintain a familiar handling method. The side of the plastic sleeve 16 facing the elevation 10 is flat. This flat geometry simplifies the joining processes, namely the ultrasonic welding of the two sleeve halves on the one hand and the creation of the welded connection between the plastic sleeve 16 and the elevation 10 on the other. The inwardly directed ribs 17 serve to guide the headband 9 in the plastic sleeve 16 with a form-fitting fit. They force the headband 9 to assume a curvature that follows the contour of the forehead 7 and was already mentioned above.

[0072] Considering that the load transfer on the screen 2 is primarily achieved via the raised portion 10, it becomes clear that the bonded connection between the plastic sleeve 16 and the foam must be resilient. As the applicant was able to demonstrate in its own welding tests, the welded joint represents a very strong and secure connection that can only be severed by destroying the material.

[0073] The welding of foams has only recently been explored and is used only in niche applications. When creating the welded joint, care must be taken to ensure that the material of the plastic sleeve 16 is selected from a single material. The general rule is that only identical thermoplastics can be welded together homogeneously. For example, if the foam is made of expanded polypropylene (EPP), the plastic sleeve 16 must also be made of polypropylene. If, on the other hand, the foam is made of expanded polyethylene (EPE), the plastic sleeve 16 must also be made of polyethylene.

[0074] The welded joint can be created using various methods. Examples include heated element welding and infrared welding. In the first case, the plastic sleeve 16 is melted on the side facing the foam by physical contact with a heating element – ​​i.e., by heat conduction – and then the plastic sleeve 16 is pressed, melted side first, against the foam. In the second case, the plastic sleeve surface is melted using an infrared radiator. Such radiators can be purchased, for example, from Excelitas Noblelight GmbH, Heraeusstraße 12-14, 63450 Hanau, Germany. Our own welding tests have shown that it is sufficient to melt only the surface of the plastic sleeve 16. The foam melts during joining solely through contact with the plastic sleeve 16. This is due to the extremely low density and low thermal conductivity of the foam.

[0075] The weld can alternatively be created using ultrasound. During ultrasonic welding of plastics, ultrasonic waves are introduced into the component using a sonotrode. Frictional heat is generated and leads to the melting of the component surface. The joining partners can then be joined under additional pressure. In order to weld using ultrasound, the energy of the sound waves must be concentrated. For this purpose, the plastic sleeve 16 must be suitably designed on the side facing the foam by providing so-called energy directors. These are straight, protruding connecting elements, such as prongs, that extend into the foam and have pointed ends. The energy directors focus the sound waves and simultaneously create a positive connection.MultiMaterial-Welding AG, Zentralstrasse 115, 2503 Biel, Switzerland, has advanced ultrasonic foam welding to series production and offers this joining technology commercially under the name LiteWWeight® zEPP. The technology utilizes the MM-Welding® process, in which a thermoplastic joining element is driven into the foam using ultrasound. Partial melting creates a bonded joint, while the special geometry of the joining element also ensures a positive fit within the foam.

[0076] Finally, the welded connection between the plastic sleeve 16 and the foam can be created by particle foam composite injection molding (PVSG). In this process, which is commercially offered by Krallmann Kunststoffverarbeitung GmbH, Siemensstraße 24, 32120 Hiddenhausen, Germany, the thermoplastic compact material is injected directly onto the foam. Only the top layer of the foam is melted, so that both components are bonded together. According to the invention, when using this process, the plastic sleeve 16 would be injected directly onto the foam.

[0077] In order to avoid foam collapse at low particle foam densities, the procedure can alternatively be reversed, by inserting the plastic sleeve 16 into the tool cavity of the molding machine and then partially foaming it in the molding process.

[0078] Fig. 11-13 illustrate the headgear 1 in various assembly stages, in which add-on parts are added step by step. Fig. 11 shows the peak 2 as a semi-finished product after foam molding, but still without the plastic sleeve 16, i.e., before joining. In an industrial production environment, the handling, positioning, and joining of the peak 2 and the plastic sleeve 16 preferably takes place fully automatically, without manual intervention. For this purpose, the peak 2 must be brought into a defined joining position. It may be advantageous to mechanically support the elevation 10 to prevent bending during joining. The plastic sleeve 16 is then aligned on the peak 2, in turn brought into a defined joining position, and pressed against the foam with the already melted side first without delay, whereby the plastic sleeve 16 is driven a predefined distance into the foam.This locally compresses the foam and increases the strength of the welded joint. Fig. 12 shows the headgear 1 after joining, and Fig. 13 shows it with the headband 9 threaded through the plastic sleeve 16.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 6 and 11, the umbrella 2 has a receptacle 18 for the support 11 on the umbrella surface facing the head 3 in the position of use. The receptacle 18 serves to hold the support 11. In the specific exemplary embodiment of the invention, the receptacle 18 consists of a circular depression in the umbrella surface. The purpose of the depression is to help the end user to correctly attach the support 11 to the intended location. The support 11 is preferably attached to the umbrella 2 by the end user themselves. In this way, they can adapt the headgear 1 to their individual head shape. The support 11 has the shape of a cylinder whose circular end fits exactly into the receptacle 18, i.e., into the circular depression.To enable individual adjustment, the cylindrical support 11 can be offered in various lengths, allowing the end user to select the support 11 that best suits their needs from a range of supports 11. The circular end of the support 11 is preferably provided with a self-adhesive coating, which allows the support 11 to be attached to the umbrella 2 without additional tools.

[0080] Receptacle 18 is by no means limited to a circular recess. A simple circular marking ultimately serves the same purpose and could serve as an alternative receptacle 18.

[0081] The support 11 can, for example, be made of open-cell polyurethane foam, or PUR foam for short. The open-cell structure makes the foam particularly soft and flexible, allowing it to absorb sweat like a wick, store it, and release it through evaporation. The foam structure thus also contributes to cooling the head 3, since evaporation is always associated with heat removal from the environment. Supports 11 made of PUR foam can be purchased ready-to-use from Oskar Pahlke GmbH, Linzer Straße 95, 53562 St. Katharinen, Germany.

[0082] Alternatively, felt can also be used as the material for the support 11. For weight and cost reasons, only the part of the support 11 that rests on the head 3 in the in-use position can be made of felt. Traditional felt consists primarily of sheep's wool, thus being of natural origin, which is a great advantage considering that the support 11 comes into direct contact with the wearer's skin. Filzfabrik Gustav Neumann GmbH, Fallersleber-Tor-Wall 7-9, 38100 Braunschweig, Germany, can supply and manufacture suitable felt.

[0083] As illustrated in Figs. 6 and 11, the umbrella 2 is reinforced around the support 18. The thickness of the foam is increased in this area. The reinforcement extends to the protrusion 10 and creates a rigid connection between the support 18 and the protrusion 10. Surprisingly, it has been shown that the supporting forces transmitted by the support 11 can be unexpectedly high due to self-locking effects. Thanks to the reinforcement, the umbrella 2 can absorb the supporting force without overloading its structure.

[0084] At the front edge 6 of the visor 2, a bulge 19 forms - see Fig. 6 and Fig. 14. The bulge 19 facilitates handling of the headgear 1 by providing grip for the fingers. The bulge 19 also improves the shape retention of the visor 2 in this area. The front edge 6 limits the field of vision. The field of vision should always be symmetrical. Deformations in this area lead to asymmetry and should therefore be avoided. The bulge 19 helps maintain the shape of the visor 2 and thus the symmetry of the field of vision.

[0085] Foam beads made of expanded polyethylene (EPE) and expanded polypropylene (EPP) are primarily available in the classic basic colors of black and natural white. There are also varieties with improved UV resistance. The natural white foam beads have an advantage due to their high degree of reflection from sunlight. However, they are minimally translucent, which hardly impairs the protective function of the headgear. If this is not satisfactory, colored raw material can be used instead of the standard natural white material to optimize the protective function and add aesthetic accents. However, JSP Corporation (JSP) only offers a limited range of colors in its standard product range. The colored varieties are also only available in certain bulk densities.One example is "ARPRO 35 Ocean," which consists of 15% recycled maritime industrial waste and features an attractive turquoise color. However, it can be assumed that JSP will expand its product range and accommodate individual customer requests for larger orders. It is also possible to add a texture to the umbrella surface. Modern manufacturing technologies in mold making, such as fine-texturing of the mold's interior using lasers, now allow for the creation of fine, high-quality surface textures. This not only enhances the umbrella's appearance, but also allows for the targeted design of its tactile properties. T. Michel Formenbau GmbH & Co. KG, In der Zeil 10, 56355 Lautert, Germany, builds molds for foam molding and also offers laser texturing.

[0086] Finally, it should be noted that the headgear 1 can be equipped with a sweatband that fulfills various functions. The most important ones are the functions of sweat transport and sweat evaporation. Furthermore, the sweatband is intended to increase the wearing comfort of the headgear 1 by ensuring a snug and soft fit against the head 3.

[0087] The sweatband can, for example, be made of a functional textile that regulates moisture, dries quickly, and increases comfort through breathability. Alternatively, it can also be made of terry cloth. It is particularly advantageous if the sweatband is detachable from the headband 9. In this case, the sweatband can be cleaned separately. The sweatband is not shown in the figures.

[0088] The above description of a preferred embodiment of the invention is for the purpose of explanation and illustration. It is not exhaustive and does not limit the invention to the specific embodiments described. Various modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The embodiment was chosen to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, and it has been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings disclosed herein.

[0089] Embodiments and modifications such as those described below are also within the technical scope of the present invention:

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the shield 2 is made of foam and simultaneously forms the support arm 10 in the form of the elevation 10, which, in the position of use, extends to the forehead 7, where it is connected to the headband 9. Of course, an independent support arm 10 could alternatively be provided. The support arm 10 could, for example, be designed similarly to the arm 13 from the above-described US 4,109,322 A (Charlotte A. Ott). However, the shape and design of the support arm 10, as well as its orientation, can vary. Thanks to the bowl-shaped design of the shield 2, the support arm 10 could in any case be made significantly shorter and more compact, which improves structural stability.

[0091] Holding arms 10 according to the alternative embodiment just presented are preferably made of solid plastic and are preferably manufactured by injection molding.

[0092] On the headband side, the holding arm 10 could form a sleeve 16 through which the headband 9 can be threaded. Alternatively, the holding arm 10 could form an arcuate plastic part with slot-shaped openings at its ends through which two free ends of the headband 9 can be threaded, similar to that shown in US Pat. No. 4,109,322 A, although the holding arm 10 and the arcuate plastic part are preferably designed as a one-piece component. This embodiment also clarifies that the headband 9 does not necessarily have to completely enclose the forehead 7.

[0093] On the shield side, the holding arm 10 could form a connection surface that is adapted to the surface of the shield 2 and via which the holding arm 10 is connected to the shield 2, preferably by welding. Regarding the production of the welded connection, reference is made to the previously disclosed teaching in connection with the plastic sleeve 16, which is equally applicable to the holding arm 10 and its connection surface.

[0094] According to the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the support 11 is attached directly to the umbrella 2. Alternatively, it could also be attached indirectly to the umbrella 2. In a particular embodiment, the support 11 could be attached to a portion of the support arm 10 or the elevation 10, thereby indirectly supporting the umbrella 2. These alternative embodiments also fall within the scope of the invention.

[0095] In the exemplary embodiment of the invention shown, only a single support 11 is provided to support the umbrella 2 on the head 3. However, the invention is not limited to a single support 11; multiple supports 11 can also be provided. In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, multiple supports 11 are arranged in a mirror-inverted manner on both sides of the head 3 in the position of use. This arrangement helps to center and stabilize the headgear 1 on the wearer's head 3 and to ensure that it is held securely. The exemplary embodiment shown could, for example, be modified by providing two supports instead of the centrally arranged support 11, which are laterally offset with respect to the omitted support 11 and are arranged in a mirror-inverted manner on the umbrella 2. The mirror-inverted nature refers to a plane of symmetry that divides the umbrella 2 into mirror-inverted halves.In the position of use, the plane of symmetry coincides with the imaginary plane that divides the head into mirror-image halves. The two supports could again have a cylindrical shape, with the cylinder axes aligned approximately perpendicular to the surface of the head 3, as in the exemplary embodiment - see Fig. 5. Instead of the centrally arranged receptacle 18, two receptacles would now be provided, which are laterally offset with respect to the omitted receptacle 18 and arranged in a mirror image on the screen 2. The receptacles can be designed like receptacle 18, whereby attention must be paid to the desired alignment of the cylinder axes, as previously mentioned. For this purpose, the receptacles must be tilted accordingly.

[0096] In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the screen 2 is made of foam and simultaneously forms the support arm 10 in the form of the raised portion 10. In principle, there is nothing to prevent the screen 2 from also forming the support 11, at least part of it. The screen 2 can form a local protrusion or raised portion for this purpose.

[0097] In the described embodiment of the invention, the support 11 has a cylindrical shape with flat end faces. The support 11 could, of course, have any other shape. Furthermore, it may be advantageous to design the surface of the support 11 that rests against the head 3, i.e., the actual contact surface, curved. The contact surface can be curved outwards or inwards.

[0098] Instead of offering the end user a range of supports 11 of different lengths, the support 11 could alternatively be designed to be length-adjustable. The length adjustment could be achieved, for example, by an adjustable screw or spindle mechanism, allowing continuous adjustment. Alternatively, the support 11 could also be adjusted by a telescopic sliding mechanism. The locking can be achieved via a latching or clamping device, or the adjustment mechanism can be self-locking or self-locking, which increases ease of use.

[0099] In the embodiment of the invention shown, the screen 2 has a circular shape in the form of a bowl or dish.

[0100] Of course, the visor 2 could also have a different design, for example, an oval shape. Furthermore, the visor 2 could be significantly flatter than shown in the figures. Finally, the visor 2 could also cover only certain areas of the head 3, for example, only the front of the head or parts of it, similar to sun visors, which are called "visor caps" in English and primarily protect the face and eyes.

[0101] Finally, it should be noted that while umbrella 2 is primarily designed for sun protection, it also offers good protection in the rain. Headgear 1 is therefore suitable for a variety of weather conditions.

[0102] List of reference symbols:

[0103] 1 headgear

[0104] 2 umbrella

[0105] 3 heads

[0106] 4 bowl bottom, bowl bottom

[0107] 5 vertices

[0108] 6 front edge of the umbrella

[0109] 7 forehead

[0110] 8 Back of the head

[0111] 9 Headband

[0112] 10 Holding arm, elevation

[0113] 11 Support

[0114] 12 space

[0115] 13 Hollowing out

[0116] 14 lids

[0117] 15 Shell surface, shell

[0118] 16 sleeve, plastic sleeve

[0119] 17 ribs

[0120] 18 recording

[0121] 19 bulge

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 24 March 2025 (24.03.2025) 1. Headgear (1) comprising a visor (2) and a device for fastening the visor (2) at a distance above the head (3) of a wearer, characterized in that the fastening device includes: a headband (9) worn around the head (3), namely around the forehead (7) and the back of the head (8), in the position of use, a holding arm (10) fastened to the headband (9) and holding the visor (2), and a support (11) arranged between the visor (2) and the head (3), sitting on the head (3) and supporting the visor (2) in the position of use.

2. Headgear according to claim 1, characterized in that the fastening of the holding arm (10) to the headband (9) is arranged on the forehead (7) in the position of use.

3. Headgear according to claim 2, characterized in that the support (11) rests on the front of the head in the position of use.

4. Headgear according to one of claims 1-3, characterized in that only a single holding arm (10) is provided.

5. Headgear according to one of claims 1-4, characterized in that only a single support (11) is provided. AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 6. Headgear according to one of claims 1-4, characterized by supports (11) arranged in a mirror-inverted manner on both sides of the head (3) in the position of use.

7. Headgear according to claim 6, characterized in that two supports (11) are provided.

8. Headgear according to one of claims 1-7, characterized in that the visor (2) consists essentially of foam and forms at least part of the holding arm (10).

9. Headgear according to one of claims 1-8, characterized in that the visor (2) consists essentially of foam and forms at least part of the support (11).

10. Headgear according to one of claims 1-9, characterized in that the visor (2) has a receptacle (18) for the support (11).

11. Headgear according to one of claims 1-10, characterized in that the support (11) can be selected from an assortment of supports (11) of different lengths.

12. Headgear according to one of claims 1-10, characterized in that the support (11) is adjustable in length.

13. Headgear according to one of claims 1-12, characterized in that at least the part of the support (11) which rests on the head (3) in the position of use has a porous structure. AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 14. Headgear according to claim 13, characterized in that the porous structure is open-pored.

15. Headgear according to claim 14, characterized in that the porous structure is formed by one of the following materials: open-cell foam, felt, fleece, cotton wool, textile.

16. Headgear according to one of claims 1-15, characterized in that the headband (9) consists essentially of a textile band.

17. Headgear according to claim 16, characterized in that the textile band is a woven webbing. AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) DECLARATION REFERRED TO IN ARTICLE 19 (1) The applicant has decided to make amendments to the originally filed claims on his own initiative in order to define the invention more precisely, create fallback positions for protection and strengthen the enforceability of the patent. For this purpose, replacement sheets are filed, containing a complete set of claims that replaces all originally filed claims. A covering letter sets out the amendments in detail and indicates the basis for the amendments in the originally filed version of the application documents. The impact of the amendments on the description and drawings will be explained, where appropriate, after entry into the national phase, in accordance with the requirements of the national and regional offices.

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