US20150290037A1 - Braided goggle strap - Google Patents
Braided goggle strap Download PDFInfo
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- US20150290037A1 US20150290037A1 US14/545,739 US201514545739A US2015290037A1 US 20150290037 A1 US20150290037 A1 US 20150290037A1 US 201514545739 A US201514545739 A US 201514545739A US 2015290037 A1 US2015290037 A1 US 2015290037A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- braided
- strap
- resilient
- bands
- goggle
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B33/00—Swimming equipment attachable to the head, e.g. swim caps or goggles
- A63B33/002—Swimming goggles
- A63B33/004—Swimming goggles comprising two separate lenses joined by a flexible bridge
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F9/00—Methods or devices for treatment of the eyes; Devices for putting-in contact lenses; Devices to correct squinting; Apparatus to guide the blind; Protective devices for the eyes, carried on the body or in the hand
- A61F9/02—Goggles
- A61F9/027—Straps; Buckles; Attachment of headbands
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- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D07—ROPES; CABLES OTHER THAN ELECTRIC
- D07B—ROPES OR CABLES IN GENERAL
- D07B1/00—Constructional features of ropes or cables
- D07B1/16—Ropes or cables with an enveloping sheathing or inlays of rubber or plastics
- D07B1/165—Ropes or cables with an enveloping sheathing or inlays of rubber or plastics characterised by a plastic or rubber inlay
- D07B1/167—Ropes or cables with an enveloping sheathing or inlays of rubber or plastics characterised by a plastic or rubber inlay having a predetermined shape
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C11/00—Non-optical adjuncts; Attachment thereof
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
- A63B2209/02—Characteristics of used materials with reinforcing fibres, e.g. carbon, polyamide fibres
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/13—Article holder attachable to apparel or body
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/13—Article holder attachable to apparel or body
- Y10T24/1371—Eyeglass holder including retaining means
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/13—Article holder attachable to apparel or body
- Y10T24/1397—Article held by flexible connector [e.g., chain]
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/16—Belt fasteners
- Y10T24/1648—Lacing
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Ophthalmology & Optometry (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Pulmonology (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Optics & Photonics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Eyeglasses (AREA)
Abstract
A braided goggle strap for use with a pair of swimming goggles includes a plurality of bands that are braided together to form a generally flat, braided goggle strap. Each of the plurality of bands includes an elastic material that is protected by a resilient fabric material to provide superior mechanical properties that results in even stress distribution and minimal sinusoidal stress when worn by a user. The composite reinforcement of the braided goggle strap also provides added comfort. The braided goggle strap includes a biased fastener for adjustably attaching the braided strap onto a user's head, is easily attachable to a pair of swimming goggles by simply threading the braided strap through the small apertures provided on the swimming goggles, and comes in a variety of different colors.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/507,157, filed Jun. 8, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/495,510, filed Jun. 10, 2011. The specifications, drawings and subject matter of all such prior applications is incorporated by reference herein in the entirety.
- The present invention relates to accessories for use with goggles. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a braided goggle strap including a plurality of bands braided together to form a resilient, braided goggle strap including eye loops disposed at opposite ends of the braided goggle strap for attaching the strap to a pair of swimming goggles. The braided goggle strap also includes a spring-biased fastener for adjustably attaching the strap comfortably onto a user's head, and comes in a variety of different colors to help locate and identify swimming goggles via, the strap.
- There are a variety of goggles available on the market today that are designed to help protect the eyes of a user when engaging in certain physical activities. For example, many individuals routinely wear goggles when skiing, riding motorcycle, and when participating in certain sports. Employees working in hazardous areas also wear goggles to help protect their eyes from injury, dust and debris, and from exposure to chemicals or the like. Such goggles typically include a frame designed to overlay both eyes of an individual, a single plastic shield attached to the frame, and an adjustable strap affixed to opposite ends of the frame for securing the protective goggles onto the head of a user.
- Other types of goggles include swimming goggles that are generally worn by professional and amateur swimmers alike. Swimming goggles are often worn by swimmers to protect the eyes when swimming in pools, lakes, ponds or rivers, and to allow a swimmer to open his or her eyes when navigating under water. Swimming goggles protect the individual's eyes from dirt, and other natural debris found in natural water ways, and from chlorine and other harsh chemicals typically used in public and private pools. Generally, swimming goggles include a pair of eye cups, a rubber strap attached to opposite ends of the eye cups, and a buckle for adjusting the length of the rubber strap to accommodate a number of individuals having different head sizes. The eye cups are dimensionally sized to cover both eyes of a swimmer and are either molded as one unit, or separately constructed and attached together via, a nose bridge. A foam pad is often disposed along the peripheral edge of each eye cup to provide comfort around the area of the eyes. Conventional swimming goggles typically come in a variety of different colors, shapes and designs and often include transparent or tinted eye cups.
- The rubber or elastic strap used on conventional swimming goggles provides various drawbacks. Most rubber straps used with swimming goggles include a flat band that is constructed from a thin rubber material. The rubber strap is designed to compress tightly against a swimmer's hair and outer surface area of the head making it difficult for a swimmer to position the strap onto the head, or providing discomfort to a wearer during extended use. The flat rubber band often twists forcing the swimmer to repeatedly make adjustments to orient the band in a flat, comfortable position. A user often attempts to untwist the elastic strap when the swimming goggle is already positioned onto the user's head. In doing so, the wearer typically pinches the band and pulls the elastic band away from the head in an effort to straighten the elastic band to provide a more comfortable fit. As a result of the rubber strap sticking to the user's hair, the individual ends up pulling his or her hair causing pain and discomfort.
- Another drawback of conventional goggle straps is that most goggle straps include a slider or buckle that are used to make necessary adjustments to the length of the strap. To achieve a desired fit and to prevent the swimming goggles from falling off, the user must slide the strap through designated slots provided in the slider or buckle to tighten the strap. In many cases, a wearer must repeatedly remove the pair of swimming goggles from his or her head to make adjustments. Most traditional swimming goggles that include adjustable rubber straps having sliders or buckles that prevent a wearer from easily and quickly adjusting the length of the rubber strap while wearing the swimming goggles. The traditional design of sliders and buckles also frustrates the ability for parents to quickly make adjustments to the rubber strap while the swimming goggles are fitted on a child's head. The child often becomes impatient or experiences discomfort as the parent repeatedly removes the swimming goggles to make adjustments. Further, the thin rubber material used in constructing the rubber strap becomes frail over time as a result of wear and tear and prolonged exposure to chemicals and sunlight. The properties of the rubber strap break down over time and the strap eventually breaks during use.
- Another disadvantage provided by conventional swimming goggle straps is that most straps are similar in appearance. Typical swimming goggle straps often comprise a light or dark shade of grey or black. Should the swimming goggles fall off during use and become lost, it would be difficult for a person to identify the goggles when found. Also, swimming goggles having differently sized goggle straps may also be hard to distinguish from one another. Individuals having different head sizes may wish to quickly differentiate between swimming goggles having differently sized goggle straps. Distinguishable features may be beneficial where a group of swimmers are concentrated in one local.
- In an effort to address some of the disadvantages of the prior art, some swimming goggle straps have implemented the use of a shock cord or a tubular bungee cord. Generally, the tubular bungee cord includes a single rubber cord or a plurality of individual rubber cords or strands assembled together to provide a round elastic core. The core can be covered with a stretchable fabric or mesh material to help protect the tubular elastic core. The tubular bungee cord is adapted for used with a pair of swimming goggles and often includes a cord lock for adjusting the length of the tubular bungee cord.
- The conventional bungee cord design also includes certain drawbacks. The tubular dimension of the bungee cord often results in the bungee cord rolling along the user's head. As the tubular bungee cord rolls along the outer surface of a wearer's head, the cord becomes misaligned and pulls on one or both sides of the swimming goggles. The wearer must correct the rolling effect by repeatedly situating the tubular bungee cord in place around the head. In an effort to prevent rolling, the user tightens the cord around the head causing not only more stress and strain on the bungee cord itself, but greater discomfort to the wearer as the cord constricts tightly around the user's head and pulls even further on the swimming goggles. Thus, the tubular bungee cord results in a goggle strap that provides an uneven stress distribution, an increased sinusoidal stress or strain, poor sheer resistance, and limited strength in the primary loading direction thereby providing uneven distribution and discomfort to a user.
- What is desired is a braided goggle strap for use with swimming goggles that is quickly and easily adjustable when worn on a user, inexpensive, and comfortable to wear. What is further desired is a braided goggle strap that includes superior mechanical properties, includes even stress distribution and minimal sinusoidal stress to provide comfort when worn on a user's head, and includes distinguishable features to help differentiate one swimming goggle strap from another.
- A first aspect of the present invention provides a braided goggle strap comprising: a plurality of bands braided together to form a braided elongated body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, where each of the plurality of bands include a resilient material enclosed in a resilient fabric material; a first band extension being a portion of one of the plurality of bands and extending a length from the first end; a second band extension being a portion of another one of the plurality of bands and extending a length from the second end, where the first band extension is folded over and attached to the first end forming a first eye loop, and the second band extension is folded over and attached to the second end forming a second eye loop, where each of the eye loops and each of the plurality of bands have a width dimensioned to fit within a pair of apertures provided on a pair of goggles, and a bias fastener operated to releasably grip onto the plurality of bands for securely attaching the braided goggle strap onto a user's head.
- Preferably, plurality of bands include a first band, a second band, and a third band where each band comprises a flat geometric shape, though other geometric shapes are possible. The resilient material includes any one of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, latex, nylon, stretch fabric (elastomerics), blended rubber with polyester, blended rubber with cotton, blended rubber with nylon or any combination thereof. The resilient fabric covering includes any one of woven or nonwoven material, cotton, polyester, nylon, poly-vinyl chloride (PVC), rayon, microfiber, acrylic, acetate, wool, leather, vinyl, or any other suitable fabric that is able to withstand wear and tear and repeated stretching over time.
- Advantageously, the bias fastener includes an outer body having an opening and an outer body aperture, an inner body dimensioned to slideably fit within the opening of the outer body and including an inner body aperture, and a bias member disposed within the opening and between the outer body and the inner body, where the bias member operatively separates the outer body from the inner body to misalign the body apertures to securely grip the plurality of bands when the plurality of bands are inserted through the body apertures, and where the bias fastener is operated to align the body apertures to release the grip on the plurality of bands allowing the plurality of bands to slide freely through the body apertures.
- In one aspect, each of the band extensions optionally includes a rigid member that is attached to, or enclosed within each of the band extensions. The resilient fabric covering includes the same color or a variety of different colors to form a braided goggle strap including a plurality of bands with resilient fabric covering having different colors.
- Another aspect of the present invention provides, a braided swimming goggle strap for use with swimming goggles, said braided swimming goggle strap comprising:
- a plurality of strands of material interlaced together to form a braided goggle strap having two opposite ends, where each of the plurality of strands of material include a resilient material; a first guide formed from a portion of one of the plurality of strands of material and extending outwards a length from one of the two opposite ends; a second guide formed from a portion of another one of the plurality of strands of material and extending outwards a length from another of the two opposite ends, where the plurality of strands of material are combined to thread through a pair of apertures provided on a pair of swimming goggles to form a first attachment strap and a second attachment strap, and a fastener operated to releasably grip onto the braided swimming goggle strap for securely attaching the braided swimming goggle strap onto a user's head.
- Preferably, each of the plurality of strands of material further includes a resilient fabric material, where the resilient fabric material is attached to, or completely encases each of the plurality of strands of material. In one alternative embodiment, each guide includes a rigid member.
- Yet another aspect of the present invention provides, a pair of goggles comprising; at least one eye shield adapted to cover an individual's eyes, and including apertures provided at opposite edges of the at least one eye shield; a plurality of bands braided together to form a braided goggle strap having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, where each of the plurality of bands include a stretchable material and a resilient fabric covering; a first band extension being a portion of one of the plurality of bands and extending a length from the first end; a second band extension being a portion of another one of the plurality of bands and extending a length from the second end, where the first band extension is folded over and attached to the first end forming a first eye loop, and the second band extension is folded over and attached to the second end forming a second eye loop, and a fastener operated to releasably grip the braided goggle strap for securely attaching the pair of goggles onto a user's head.
- Preferably, the at least one eye shield includes a first eye shield joined to a second eye shield via, a nose bridge, and the apertures include a first aperture provided at an outer edge of the first eye shield and a second aperture provided at an outer edge of the second eye shield. The braided goggle strap is threaded through the apertures to form a first attachment strap and a second attachment strap for attaching the goggles onto a user's head.
- These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specifications, claims, and appended drawings.
- The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a braided goggle strap, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view of the braided goggle strap ofFIG. 1 , showing a plurality of bands where each band includes an elastic material covered or enclosed with a resilient fabric material, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 1B is an exploded, perspective view of a bias fastener including a bias member defined by a spring, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the braided goggle strap ofFIG. 1 , shown attached to a pair of swimming goggles, in accordance with the present invention; and -
FIG. 3 is a side view of the braided goggle strap ofFIG. 1 , shown attached onto a users head. - One or more embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. The embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. It is noted that the various views, features, elements, and dimensions of the disclosed exemplary embodiments are not necessarily to scale, and may be enlarged, exaggerated, minimized, or sectionalized for clarity. Thus, specific structural and functional details, dimensions, shapes, or configurations disclosed herein are not limiting but serve as a basis for teaching a person of ordinary skill in the art the described and claimed features of the one or more embodiments of the present invention.
- Referring now to the drawings wherein like elements are represented by like numerals throughout, there is shown in
FIG. 1 , a perspective view of abraided goggle strap 10 in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. Thebraided goggle strap 10 of the present invention is shown for use with a pair ofswimming goggles 30 for illustrative purposes only. It will be understood that thebraided goggle strap 10 may be adapted for use with a variety of different goggles, including but not limited, to goggles used for working, gardening, enjoying hobbies like wood carving, participating in sports such as skiing, fishing, or the like, and riding or operating motor operated vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs or snowmobiles. - In one embodiment of the present invention, the
braided goggle strap 10 includes a plurality ofbands braided goggle strap 10 having afirst end 18 and asecond end 20, opposite thefirst end 18. In one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of bands comprises afirst band 12, asecond band 14 and athird band 16, each band having a preselected length. In a preferred embodiment, eachband bands braided goggle strap 10 may include an N number of bands that are braided together to form a strong,braided goggle strap 10. Eachband single band band bands bands - In one non-limiting example, each of the plurality of
bands elastic material 11 that is covered with a resilient orstretchable fabric material 13, as better illustrated inFIG. 1A .FIG. 1A , shows a cross-sectional view of thebraided goggle strap 10, showingbands elastic material 11 that is covered or enclosed by aresilient fabric material 13. Theresilient fabric material 13 protects the individual elastic orrubber material 11 from deteriorating due to exposure to sunlight, chemicals, UV light, salt, or other elements. Theresilient fabric 13 is designed to expand and contract along with the expansion of theelastic material 11. Theresilient fabric material 13 may include any woven or nonwoven material, cotton, polyester, nylon, poly-vinyl chloride (PVC), rayon, microfiber, acrylic, acetate, wool, leather, vinyl, or any other suitable fabric that is able to withstand wear and tear and repeated stretching over time. In the preferred embodiment, thestretchable fabric 13 comes in a variety of different colors and/or patterns. For example, abraided goggle strap 10 may include afirst band 12 having a blue fabric covering, asecond band 14 having a black fabric covering, and athird band 16 having a light blue fabric covering. Colored fabrics provide a benefit of being able to locate and identifyswimming goggles 30 if lost in a pool or pond, and can help distinguish and identify onebraided goggle strap 10 from anotherbraided goggle strap 10 or from other conventional goggle straps. The colors selected may include bright, florescent colors that are easily visible under water. Also, one ormore bands resilient fabric material 13. - Each
band braided goggle strap 10 that is adapted for use with all types of goggles and that can be used in a variety of different environments. In one exemplary embodiment, eachband Bands braided goggle strap 10 having an approximate length, as depicted in a relaxed, non-stretched state, of 30 inches in length, ¼ of an inch wide, and 1/16 of an inch thick. The total width of thebraided goggle strap 10 is slightly smaller than the width of aperture tabs or strap slots that are provided at opposite, outer edges of protective goggles and swimming goggles. Many protective goggles and swimming goggles include aperture tabs or strap slots that are situated along the outer edge of eye cups, as better illustrated inFIG. 2 . Eachstrap slot braided goggle strap 10 so attach theswimming goggles 30 onto the head of a user. Thus, the combinational width of eachband braided strap 10 having a total width that is slightly smaller thantypical strap slots swimming goggles 30. - With continued reference to
FIG. 1 , the flat, resilient,braided goggle strap 10 includes a pair of extensions or guides for threading thebraided strap 10 through eachstrap slot swimming goggles 30. In the preferred embodiment, the pair of extensions comprise afirst eye loop 22 disposed at thefirst end 18 of thestrap 10, and asecond eye loop 24 disposed at thesecond end 20 of thestrap 10, opposite thefirst end 18. Eacheye loop first strap slot 32, and asecond strap slot 34, respectively, ofswimming goggles 30, as better illustrated inFIG. 2 . Eacheye loop bands bands band 12 terminates at asecond end 20 of thebraided strap 10 while an opposite end of the oneband 12 extends outwards a length from afirst end 18 of thebraided strap 10. In addition, one end of asecond band 14 terminates at thefirst end 18 of thebraided strap 10 while an opposite end of thesecond band 14 extends outwards a length from thesecond end 20 of thebraided strap 10. The two opposite ends ofband 16 are configured to terminate at both thefirst end 18 and thesecond end 20. Each band extension ofbands ends eye loops bands eye loops braided goggle strap 10. The beneficial feature ofeye loops braided goggle strap 10 through a pair ofstrap slots swimming goggles 30. The formedeye loops - It will be understood that
eye loops ends braided goggle strap 10 using any well-known methods or techniques. Also, in one alternative embodiment, arigid member 19, 21 or stiffening member may be incorporated within, disposed on, or attached to eacheye loop rigid eye loop eye loops strap slot swimming goggles 30. Further, in one alternative embodiment,eye loops braided goggle strap 10 through eachslot - As illustrated in
FIG. 1 , the flat, resilient,braided goggle strap 10 also includes abias fastener 26 that is used for selectively adjusting the length of thebraided strap 10 to securely tighten or loosen theswimming goggles 30 onto user's head. In the preferred embodiment,bias fastener 26 comprises a spring-biased fastener having anouter body 27 including an opening and an outer body aperture formed through the outer body. Thebias fastener 26 also includes aninner body 28 shaped and sized to slide within the opening of theouter body 27 where an inner body aperture is formed through theinner body 28. Theinner body 28 also includes a stopper (not shown) formed adjacent a lower section of the inner body aperture to prevent theinner body 28 from falling out of the opening of theouter body 27 when theinner body 28 is securely inserted within theouter body 27. As better illustrated inFIG.1B , thebias fastener 26 further includes abias member 25 defined by a spring. Thespring 25 is operatively disposed between theouter body 27 and theinner body 28 to naturally urge the twobodies braided goggle strap 10 to prevent the strap from moving freely there through. - In use, the
bias fastener 26 is held between a thumb and index finger of one hand, and a compressing force is applied to bothbodies inner body 28 to slide within theouter body 27 and compress the spring to allow the body apertures of eachbody strap hole 29. Thus, thebraided strap 10 freely travels throughstrap hole 29 when both body apertures are in alignment. To lock thefastener 26 onto thebraided goggle strap 10, the user simply releases thefastener 26 where the spring pushes theinner body 28 away from theouter body 27 to cause the body apertures to become misaligned. In one alternative embodiment,bias fastener 26 may include anouter body 27 and aninner body 28 each having two body apertures where each body aperture receives opposite ends of thebraided goggle strap 10. - Though the preferred embodiment discloses a spring-biased
fastener 26, other types of fasteners may also be used with thebraided goggle strap 10 without departing from the scope of the invention. For example,bias fastener 26 may include a quick release buckle, a ratchet-type fastener, snaps, clips, clamps, hook and loop attachments, an adjustable clasp, squeeze release buckle, clip buckle, snap buckle, ratchet buckle, slider, or any other suitable mechanism used for making adjustments. - Turning now to
FIG. 2 , there is shown a perspective view of thebraided goggle strap 10 securely attached to a pair ofswimming goggles 30. In the illustrative embodiment, a pair ofswimming goggles 30 includes a pair of transparent or tinted eye cups each shaped to conform to the eyes of a wearer. Each eye cup generally includes a foam or padded material disposed along the peripheral edge of the cup to provide comfort around the area of the eyes. For illustrative purposes, the pair ofswimming goggles 30 includes a pair of eye cups that are coupled together via, anose bridge 31. It is contemplated that thebraided goggle strap 10 of the present invention is adapted for use with a variety of different swimming goggles and not only withswimming goggles 30, as demonstrated herein. Typically, swimminggoggles 30 include a tab with an aperture or afirst strap slot 32 provided at the outer edge of one eye cup, and second tab with an aperture or asecond strap slot 34 provided at the outer edge of another eye cup.Strap slots braided goggle strap 10. - To attach the
braided goggle strap 10 to a pair ofswimming goggles 30, a user first removes thebias fastener 26 if situated onto thebraided strap 10. The user simply holds afirst eye loop 22 between an index finger and thumb of one hand and inserts theeye loop 22 through afirst strap slot 32 of the swimminggoggle 30. The user pulls thefirst eye loop 22 through thestrap slot 32 until a sufficient length ofbraided strap 10 is achieved. The user proceeds to do the same with thesecond eye loop 24 by sliding thesecond eye loop 24 through thesecond strap slot 34 ofswimming goggles 30. The user pulls thesecond eye loop 24 through thestrap slot 34 until a sufficient length ofbraided strap 10 is achieved. Thus, eacheye loop corresponding strap slot Eye loops braided goggle strap 10 through eachstrap slot swimming goggles 30. - In attaching the
bias fastener 26 to thebraided goggle strap 10, the user simply holds thefastener 26 in one hand and compresses bothbodies strap hole 29. Botheye loops strap hole 29 until a desired length of each end of thebraided strap 10 has passed through thestrap hole 29. Thebias fastener 26 is then released allowing thebias fastener 26 to securely engage thebraided strap 10. As better illustrated inFIG. 2 , thebraided goggle strap 10 is threaded through eachstrap slot swimming goggles 30, to form a first attachment strap. 36 and asecond attachment strap 38 both used for securing theswimming goggles 30 to a user'shead 40. -
FIG. 3 shows a side view of a pair ofswimming goggles 30 securely attached on thehead 40 of a user. In preparation for swimming, a user initially positions theswimming goggles 30 comfortably over the eyes with one hand, and stretches both attachments straps 36, 38 over thehead 40. The user may operate thebias fastener 26 to tighten thebraided goggle strap 10 onto thehead 40 for securing theswimming goggles 30 in place. Thefastener 26 allows a user to quickly make adjustments while thebraided goggle strap 10 is situated on the user's head. This alleviates the need of having to remove theswimming goggles 30 off the user's head every time the person wishes to make adjustments during use. - Further, in one alternative embodiment, the flat, resilient,
braided goggle strap 10 may include one or more attachments or loops that are integrally formed with thebraided goggle strap 10 and used to attach or secure items to thebraided strap 10. For example, thebraided strap 10 may include a stretchable loop integrally formed with or separately attached to thestrap 10 to securely hold a snorkel to thebraided goggle strap 10. Also, one or more pads or foam slip-ons (not shown) may be attached to a section of eachloop strap head 40 when thebraided goggle strap 10 is worn. - The present invention provides a flat, resilient braided
goggle strap 10 that includes a plurality ofbands bands braided goggle strap 10 includes a resilient or stretchable fabric material that does not stick to a user's hair like a rubber strap does, and includes a flat geometric shape that does not travel or roll along the outer surface of a user's head as with tubular bungee cord straps. The flat braided composite provides agoggle strap 10 that fits comfortably on a user's head and does not have to be overly tightened in order to prevent thebraided strap 10 from rolling or twisting on the user's head. - Further, the flat, resilient braided
goggle strap 10 of the present invention is designed to provide uniaxial tensile strength, even stress distribution, and minimal sinusoidal stress when worn by a user. The plurality ofbands braided goggle strap 10 that is harder to break and able to withstand prolonged use, and exposure to sunlight, chemicals, and stress. As a flat non-tubular member, thebraided goggle strap 10 surpasses the tubular bungee strap's poor sheer resistance and limited strength in the primary loading direction. Thebraided goggle strap 10 is configured to evenly distribute tension and firmly secure eyewear, such as swimming goggles, comfortably onto a user's head. - As variations, combinations and modifications may be made in the construction and methods herein described and illustrated without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative rather than limiting. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but defined in accordance with the foregoing claims appended hereto and their equivalents.
Claims (18)
1. A braided goggle strap comprising:
a plurality of bands braided together to form a braided elongated body having a first end and a second end opposite said first end, each of said plurality of bands being separate and distinct from one another and including a resilient material having a resilient fabric covering;
a first band extension being a portion of one of said plurality of bands and extending a length from said first end;
a second band extension being a portion of either, said one of said plurality of bands or another one of said plurality of bands and extending a length from said second end;
a bias fastener operated to releasably grip onto said plurality of bands for securely attaching said braided goggle strap onto a user's head; and
wherein each of said band extension is dimensioned to removably slide through a pair of small apertures formed on a pair of swimming goggles.
2. The braided goggle strap of claim 1 , wherein said plurality of bands include a first band, a second band, and a third band, each band braided together to form said braided goggle strap.
3. The braided goggle strap of claim 2 , wherein said resilient material includes anyone of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, latex, nylon, stretch fabric (elastomerics), blended rubber with polyester, blended rubber with cotton, blended rubber with nylon or any combination thereof.
4. The braided goggle strap of claim 3 , wherein said resilient fabric covering includes any one of woven or nonwoven material, cotton, polyester, nylon, poly-vinyl chloride (PVC), rayon, microfiber, acrylic, acetate, wool, leather, vinyl, or any other suitable fabric that is able to withstand wear and tear and repeated stretching and contracting over time.
5. The braided goggle strap of claim 4 , wherein said bias fastener includes an outer body having an opening and an outer body aperture, an inner body dimensioned to slideably fit within said opening of said outer body and including an inner body aperture, and a bias member disposed within said opening and between said outer body and said inner body, where said bias member operatively separates said outer body from said inner body to misalign said body apertures to releasably grip unto said plurality of bands when said plurality of bands are inserted through said body apertures.
6. The braided goggle strap of claim 4 , wherein said resilient fabric covering includes a same color or a variety of different colors defining a braided goggle strap including a plurality of bands having different colors.
7. The braided goggle strap of claim 4 , further including a first eye loop formed from said first band extension and a second eye loop formed from said second band extension.
8. A resilient braided swimming goggle strap comprising:
a plurality of resilient strands interlaced together to form said resilient braided swimming goggle strap having opposite ends;
a first extension extending from one of said opposite ends, and a second extension extending from another of said opposite ends, said extensions removeably inserted within corresponding apertures of swimming goggles to form a first attachment strap and a second attachment strap; and
a bias fastener operated to releasably grip onto said resilient braided goggle strap for securely tightening and attaching the first attachment strap and the second attachment strap securely around a user's head for securing a pair of goggles in place.
9. The resilient braided swimming goggle strap of claim 8 , wherein said bias fastener includes an outer body having an opening and an outer body aperture, an inner body dimensioned to slideably fit within said opening of said outer body and including an inner body aperture, and a bias member disposed within said opening and between said outer body and said inner body to misalign said body apertures and grip said plurality of resilient strands when said plurality of resilient strands are inserted through said body apertures, and where said fastener is operated to align said body apertures to release said grip on said plurality of resilient strands to allow said plurality of resilient strands to slide freely through said body apertures.
10. The resilient braided swimming goggle strap of claim 9 , wherein each of said plurality of resilient strands comprises a flat geometric shape and are braided together to form said resilient braided swimming goggle strap having a flattened geometric shape and width dimensioned to slide through said pair of apertures provided on a pair of swimming goggles.
11. The resilient braided swimming goggle strap of claim 10 , wherein said plurality of resilient strands includes a same color or a variety of different colors to form a resilient braided swimming goggle strap including a same color or a variety of different colors.
12. A braided strap releasably attachable to a pair of goggles having a nose bridge disposed between a pair of eye cups and apertures disposed on peripheral edges of said eye cups, said braided strap comprising:
a plurality of resilient bands braided together to form said braided strap having a first end opposite a second end, each of said plurality of resilient bands including a planar geometric shape, and a resilient material having an outer resilient fabric;
a first band extending from said first end;
a second band extending from said second end; and
a fastener releasably biased to adjustably tighten said braided strap around a user's head to secure said eye cups over both eyes of said user.
13. The braided strap of claim 12 , wherein said resilient material includes any of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or elastomerics, and wherein said resilient fabric includes anyone of woven or nonwoven material, cotton, polyester, nylon, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rayon, micro fiber, acrylic, acetate, wool, leather, or vinyl.
14. The braided strap of claim 13 , wherein said first band extension forms a first eye loop that extends from said first end, and said second band extension forms a second eye loop that extends from said second end, each of said eye loops dimensioned to removeably extend through said apertures of said pair of goggles.
15. The braided strap of claim 14 , further including a bias fastener including an outer body having an opening and an outer body aperture, an inner body dimensioned to slideably fit within said opening of said outer body and including an inner body aperture, and a bias member disposed within said opening and between said outer body and said inner body to misalign said body apertures and releasably grip said plurality of resilient bands when said plurality of resilient bands are inserted through said body apertures.
16. The braided strap of claim 13 , wherein said plurality of resilient bands comprises a first resilient band, a second resilient band, and a third resilient band.
17. The braided strap of claim 15 , wherein each of said plurality of resilient bands including a same color or a variety of different colors.
18. The braided strap of claim 15 , wherein each of said eye loops includes a rigid member affixed along a surface of said eye loop to provide a first rigid eye loop and a second rigid eye loop that will not bend or flex as said eye loops are inserted through respective apertures of said goggles.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/545,739 US20150290037A1 (en) | 2011-06-10 | 2015-06-12 | Braided goggle strap |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
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US201161495510P | 2011-06-10 | 2011-06-10 | |
US13/507,157 US9101795B2 (en) | 2011-06-10 | 2012-06-08 | Braided goggle strap |
US14/545,739 US20150290037A1 (en) | 2011-06-10 | 2015-06-12 | Braided goggle strap |
Related Parent Applications (1)
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US13/507,157 Continuation US9101795B2 (en) | 2011-06-10 | 2012-06-08 | Braided goggle strap |
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US20150290037A1 true US20150290037A1 (en) | 2015-10-15 |
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US13/507,157 Active 2032-08-15 US9101795B2 (en) | 2011-06-10 | 2012-06-08 | Braided goggle strap |
US14/545,739 Abandoned US20150290037A1 (en) | 2011-06-10 | 2015-06-12 | Braided goggle strap |
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US13/507,157 Active 2032-08-15 US9101795B2 (en) | 2011-06-10 | 2012-06-08 | Braided goggle strap |
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Cited By (3)
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KR200485720Y1 (en) * | 2016-12-05 | 2018-02-13 | 안효원 | Face mask and sunglasses |
EP3858446A1 (en) * | 2020-01-31 | 2021-08-04 | Qbas Co., Ltd. | Swimming goggle |
US11497280B2 (en) * | 2020-04-28 | 2022-11-15 | Overwatch LLC | Rapid cord fastener |
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US8869315B2 (en) * | 2012-05-18 | 2014-10-28 | Bauer Hockey, Inc. | Protective athletic garment |
US9427359B1 (en) * | 2013-10-04 | 2016-08-30 | Mark C Engstrom | Adjustable eyelid cover device and method |
US9868030B2 (en) * | 2014-04-29 | 2018-01-16 | Clare Donovan | Chemiluminescent swim goggles |
US20160288889A1 (en) * | 2015-04-02 | 2016-10-06 | Aquatic Research And Training Technology Llc | Underwater breathing apparatus |
USD794703S1 (en) * | 2015-04-02 | 2017-08-15 | Fast Forward Product Development Llc | Combination eyeglass retainer and earplug holder |
USD818260S1 (en) | 2015-04-02 | 2018-05-22 | Cade Andersen | Earplug holder |
US9770367B2 (en) | 2015-04-02 | 2017-09-26 | Fast Forward Product Development Llc | Lanyard with integrated ear plugs and retractable sheath |
US20230034828A1 (en) * | 2021-07-28 | 2023-02-02 | Smacks Swim LLC | Braided Swim Suit Strap |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20120311773A1 (en) | 2012-12-13 |
US9101795B2 (en) | 2015-08-11 |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |