US20050105041A1 - Interchangeable eyewear assembly - Google Patents
Interchangeable eyewear assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050105041A1 US20050105041A1 US10/957,213 US95721304A US2005105041A1 US 20050105041 A1 US20050105041 A1 US 20050105041A1 US 95721304 A US95721304 A US 95721304A US 2005105041 A1 US2005105041 A1 US 2005105041A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- assembly
- subframe
- frame assembly
- frame
- eyewear
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- Abandoned
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- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 13
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- 238000004040 coloring Methods 0.000 description 3
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- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000000750 progressive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- CWYNVVGOOAEACU-UHFFFAOYSA-N Fe2+ Chemical compound [Fe+2] CWYNVVGOOAEACU-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C9/00—Attaching auxiliary optical parts
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C03—GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
- C03C—CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF GLASSES, GLAZES OR VITREOUS ENAMELS; SURFACE TREATMENT OF GLASS; SURFACE TREATMENT OF FIBRES OR FILAMENTS MADE FROM GLASS, MINERALS OR SLAGS; JOINING GLASS TO GLASS OR OTHER MATERIALS
- C03C3/00—Glass compositions
- C03C3/04—Glass compositions containing silica
- C03C3/062—Glass compositions containing silica with less than 40% silica by weight
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C03—GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
- C03C—CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF GLASSES, GLAZES OR VITREOUS ENAMELS; SURFACE TREATMENT OF GLASS; SURFACE TREATMENT OF FIBRES OR FILAMENTS MADE FROM GLASS, MINERALS OR SLAGS; JOINING GLASS TO GLASS OR OTHER MATERIALS
- C03C3/00—Glass compositions
- C03C3/12—Silica-free oxide glass compositions
- C03C3/125—Silica-free oxide glass compositions containing aluminium as glass former
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C03—GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
- C03C—CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF GLASSES, GLAZES OR VITREOUS ENAMELS; SURFACE TREATMENT OF GLASS; SURFACE TREATMENT OF FIBRES OR FILAMENTS MADE FROM GLASS, MINERALS OR SLAGS; JOINING GLASS TO GLASS OR OTHER MATERIALS
- C03C4/00—Compositions for glass with special properties
- C03C4/0071—Compositions for glass with special properties for laserable glass
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C2200/00—Generic mechanical aspects applicable to one or more of the groups G02C1/00 - G02C5/00 and G02C9/00 - G02C13/00 and their subgroups
- G02C2200/02—Magnetic means
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to eyewear frames and lenses. More particularly, the present invention relates to an eyewear assembly in which a single set of lenses can be inserted and removed from behind a plurality of frames or multiple sets of lenses can be inserted and removed from behind a single frame.
- the frame structures can vary among one another by virtue of functionality, features or aesthetic appearance.
- variations among the frames can be provided by design, materials used, coloring, shape, decorations, construction or the like.
- the lenses can vary among one another by virtue of tinting or magnification features, for instance.
- Different eyeglass lenses may also be purchased for various vision correcting purposes, for purposes such as glare reduction, magnification, protection from UV rays, lighter weights, as for aesthetic reasons such as thinness of the lenses, tints and coloring of the lenses.
- a person can maintain a single frame in which the lenses are removed and replaced quickly and easily to accommodate changes in the lenses.
- sun lenses can be installed in place of clear lenses or a magnifying lens can be used in place of a wearer's usual lens.
- one aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention involves providing a user with one pair of lenses that can be easily attached and detached to a plurality of complementary frame designs.
- Another aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention involves enabling a user to remove the lenses from one frame and insert the lenses in another frame without the use of mechanical tools or equipment or enabling a user to remove at least one lens from a frame and replace that lens with another lens without the use of mechanical tools or equipment.
- a further aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention involves enabling an eyeglass wearer to easily attach to and detach from a single pair of lenses multiple frames without contacting with one's fingers a region of the lenses through which one looks.
- An aspect of the present invention also involves an eyeglass assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe assembly.
- the frame assembly comprises a pair of temples, a front side and a back side.
- the back side of the frame assembly is closer to a wearer's face than the front side.
- the subframe assembly comprises at least one lens.
- the subframe assembly also comprises a front side and a back side.
- the back side of the subframe assembly is closer to the wearer's face than the front side of the subframe assembly.
- the subframe assembly is secured to the frame assembly at least in part by at least one pair of magnetic members such that the front side of the subframe assembly faces the back side of the frame assembly and the subframe assembly is at least partially positioned between the frame assembly and the wear's face.
- a first magnetic member of the at least one pair of magnetic members is a magnet that is secured to one of the frame assembly and the subframe assembly and a second magnetic member of the at least one pair of magnetic members is a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet and the second magnetic member being secured to the other of the frame assembly and the subframe assembly such that the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are generally aligned when the subframe assembly is secured to the frame assembly.
- an eyeglass assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe assembly.
- the frame assembly comprises a front side and a back side with the back side being closer to a face of a wearer than the front side.
- the frame assembly further comprises a first brow bar, a second brow bar and a bridge connecting the first brow bar to the second brow bar.
- a first projection extends from the first brow bar and a second projection extends from the second brow bar.
- a first temple is connected to the first projection and a second temple connected to the second projection.
- the subframe assembly comprises a front side and a back side. The back side is closer to the face of a wearer than the front side.
- the subframe assembly further comprises a brow bar with a lens being secured to the brow bar.
- the subframe assembly is secured to the frame assembly such that the front side of the subframe assembly faces the back side of the frame assembly and such that the front side of the subframe assembly generally is positioned rearward of the front side of the frame assembly.
- a further aspect of the present invention involves a method of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system.
- the eyewear system comprises a first subframe assembly that comprises a first lens, a second subframe assembly that comprises a second lens, the second lens not being matched to the first lens, and a frame assembly that will accommodate individually both the first subframe assembly and the second subframe assembly.
- the method comprises releasing and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the frame assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the frame assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the frame assembly.
- a further aspect of the present invention involves a method of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system.
- the eyewear system comprises a first subframe assembly that comprises a first lens and a second lens, and at least a second subframe assembly that comprises a different first lens and a different second lens, and a frame assembly that will accommodate individually each subframe assembly, which is not limited in number. In other words, three, four or more subframes can be used.
- the method comprises releasing and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the frame assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the frame assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the frame assembly.
- An additional aspect of the present invention involves a method of exchanging frames in an eyewear system.
- the eyewear system comprises a first frame assembly that does not comprise a lens, a second frame assembly that does not comprise a lens, and a subframe assembly that comprises a lens where the subframe assembly is sized and configured to be accommodated within the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly.
- the method comprises releasing and removing the subframe assembly from behind the first frame assembly, placing the subframe assembly behind the second frame assembly and securing the subframe assembly to the second frame assembly.
- FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a first eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
- FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses.
- FIG. 3 is a side elevation of the first eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the first eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the first eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 1 with the first pair of lenses shown removed from the first frame.
- FIG. 6 is a section view taken along the line 6 - 6 in FIG. 4 .
- FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of a second eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
- FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the second eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 9 is a side elevation of the second eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the second eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the first pair of lenses as presented in FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the first frame as presented in FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 13 is a section view taken along the line 13 - 13 in FIG. 12 .
- FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of a third eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
- FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the third eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 16 is a side elevation of the third eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the third eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a portion of the first pair of lenses as presented in FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a portion of the first frame as presented in FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a portion of the first pair of lenses as presented in FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 21 is a top plan view of a portion of the first frame as presented in FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of a fourth eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
- FIG. 23 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the fourth eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 24 is a side elevation of the fourth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 22 .
- FIG. 25 is a top plan view of the fourth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 22 .
- FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of the fourth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 22 with the first pair of lenses shown removed from the first frame.
- FIG. 27 is a front elevation view of a fifth eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
- FIG. 28 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the fifth eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 29 is a side elevation of the fifth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 27 .
- FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the fifth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 27 .
- FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a portion of the fifth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 27 with the first pair of lenses shown removed from the first frame.
- FIGS. 32A and 32B are a perspective view of a portion of the fifth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 27 with the first pair of lenses shown installed on the first frame.
- FIG. 33 is a front elevation view of a sixth eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
- FIG. 34 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the sixth eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 35 is a side elevation of the sixth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 33 .
- FIG. 36 is a top plan view of the sixth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 33 .
- FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a portion of the sixth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 33 with the first pair of lenses shown removed from the first frame.
- FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a portion of the sixth eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 33 with the first pair of lenses shown installed on the first frame.
- FIG. 39 is a front elevation view of a seventh eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a pair of first lenses.
- FIG. 40 is a front elevation view of the pair of first lenses of the seventh eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 41A is a perspective view of one of the first lenses being connected to the first frame of the seventh eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 39 .
- FIG. 41B is a perspective view of the first lens showing in FIG. 41A after being rotated into position on the first frame of the seventh eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 39 .
- FIGS. 42A and 42B illustrate in front view the fitting of the lens to the frame shown in FIGS. 41A and 41B .
- FIG. 43 is a front elevation view of the first frame of the seventh eyewear assembly as presented in FIG. 39 .
- FIG. 44 is a front elevation view of the pair of first lenses of the seventh eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 45 is a side elevation view of the seventh eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 46 is a perspective view of a portion of the seventh eyewear.
- FIG. 47 is a sectioned view taken along the line 47 - 47 in FIG. 46 .
- FIG. 48 is a partially sectioned view of a portion of the seventh eyewear assembly showing a connection between one of the first lenses and the first frame.
- FIG. 49 is a front elevation view of an eighth eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses.
- FIG. 50 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the eighth eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 51 is a top plan view of the eighth eyewear assembly.
- FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a portion of the eighth eyewear assembly.
- FIGS. 53 and 54 illustrate in schematic fashion that a single pair of lenses can be used interchangeably with a plurality of frames to create some flexibility in eyewear fashion and function.
- FIG. 55 illustrates in schematic fashion that a single frame assembly can be used with a variety of different lens combinations.
- a set of lenses can be removably connected to a frame assembly.
- the lens assembly will be mounted rearward of a front surface, and more preferably a rear surface, of the frame assembly.
- the frame assembly will obscure at least a portion of the lens assembly.
- auxiliary lenses can be placed behind the primary lenses such that magnifiers, sun lenses, corrective lenses or the like can be positioned behind a primary lens.
- FIGS. 53 and 54 a single set of lenses contained in a subframe assembly can be installed in any number of frame assemblies to provide completed eyewear.
- FIG. 53 shows an arrangement with a mechanical interconnection between the subframe assembly and the frame assembly while
- FIG. 54 shows an arrangement with a magnetic interconnection between the subframe assembly and the frame assembly.
- FIG. 55 illustrates the use of a single frame assembly with subframe assemblies comprising blue lenses, brown lenses and clear lenses. Other lens variations also can be used. Configurations such as those shown in FIGS. 53-55 will address the desires to use either a single set of lenses with multiple frames, a single frame with multiple sets of lenses or multiples sets of lenses with multiple frames.
- the frame assembly preferably comprises a brow bar, a pair of temples and a bridge but other suitable frame assemblies also can be used.
- the frame can be made of any suitable material and in any suitable manner.
- the frame assembly advantageously is not provided with any lenses that are secured within optical openings of the frame assembly in any typical fashion.
- the lenses preferably are mounted in the sub-frame or in a pair of sub-frames that are independently mountable to the frame assembly.
- the sub-frame or sub-frames in the illustrated arrangements preferably do not feature temples or nose support pads. Instead, once mounted in the frame assembly, the frame assembly provides these components. In some embodiments, however, the frame assembly may be made without the temples and/or the nose support pads and these components can be mounted to the sub-frame or sub-frames. Such a construction, however, reduces the illusion of an integrated frame and lens assembly.
- the sub-frame preferably is of the semi-rimless variety to increase the number of frame assembly variations with which the sub-frame can be used. In some embodiments, the sub-frame can comprise a very narrow frame, however, the integrity of the frame assembly can become a concern in such embodiments.
- the illustrated embodiments depict two general types of interconnection techniques with which the subframe assembly can be secured to the frame assembly: magnetic interlock and mechanical interlock.
- a combination of a magnetic interlock and a mechanical interlock also can be used. While a few mechanical interlocking constructions are illustrated, a variety of other suitable types of interlocking constructions also can be used. In some arrangements, these mechanical interlocks can be snap-fit.
- magnetic members are provided on at least one of the frame assembly or the lens assembly. The magnetic members can be a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet (e.g., a ferrous metal).
- each pair of attracting magnetic members includes at least one magnetic member that is a magnet while the other magnetic member may be a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet.
- the magnetic members can have any suitable shape and size.
- the magnetic members can be embedded, recessed, positioned flush with or raised from the surface to which or in which the magnetic member is secured.
- a pair of magnetic members is provided such that one of the pair is in or on the frame assembly and the other is in or on a corresponding region of the subframe assembly.
- the magnetic members can be attached in any suitable manner, including without limitation, embedding, adhering, or through the use of a sleeve or housing.
- the frame assembly or the subframe assembly can include a component made of a magnetic member, such as a brow bar or the like.
- the magnetic members can be used to join the frame assembly to the subframe assembly regardless of whether there is direct contact between the paired magnetic members. Accordingly, “magnetically secured” means that the magnetic force between the respective magnetic members is sufficient to hold the subframe assembly in a usable position relative to the frame assembly.
- the eyewear 100 generally comprises a frame assembly 102 and a lens subframe assembly 104 (see, for example, FIG. 2 ).
- the lens subframe assembly 104 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 102 rearward of the frame assembly 102 such that at least a portion of the lens subframe assembly 104 will be positioned between the frame assembly 102 and the eye of a wearer.
- the term rearward means on the side adjacent the eyes and forward means in the opposite direction.
- the frame assembly 102 preferably comprises a brow bar 110 , a pair of temples 112 and a bridge 114 .
- the brow bar 110 and the temples 112 can be connected in any suitable manner.
- corresponding hinges 116 connect the temples 112 to the brow bar 110 .
- projections 118 extend from the brow bar 110 and the hinges 116 connect the brow bar 110 to the projections 118 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used.
- the bridge 114 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user.
- the brow bar 110 actually is formed in two portions that are connected by the bridge 114 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used including, but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge 114 .
- Any of the above described components of the frame assembly 102 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
- the temples 112 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes.
- the frame assembly 102 also can comprise other structures, such as nose pads and the structures that connect the nose pads to the rest of the frame assembly 102 .
- the lens subframe assembly 104 in the arrangement of FIGS. 1-6 comprises a pair of lenses 120 .
- a brow bar 122 and a bridge 124 combine in the illustrated arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe assembly 104 .
- the brow bar 122 and the bridge 124 have a smaller profile in front view such that the brow bar 122 and the bridge 124 of the subframe assembly 104 can be concealed by the brow bar 110 and the bridge 114 of the frame assembly 102 , as shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 1 .
- the subframe assembly 104 preferably is of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly 104 to be masked.
- the subframe assembly 104 comprises a lower nylon cord 126 that secures the lenses 120 to the brow bar 122 .
- Other manners of securing the lenses 120 within or to the subframe assembly 104 can be used.
- the lenses 120 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like.
- the subframe assembly 104 advantageously mounts to the frame assembly 102 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than removably connected lenses and frames.
- the subframe assembly 104 mounts behind the frame assembly 102 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 102 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 102 from the front.
- the bridge 124 of the subframe assembly 104 is positioned behind the bridge 114 of the frame assembly 102 .
- a flange 130 extends rearward from the bridge 114 of the illustrated frame assembly 102 .
- the flange can have any suitable configuration.
- the flange 130 is configured to have a vertical dimension that is the same as or less than a vertical dimension of the bridge 114 of the frame assembly 102 .
- the flange 130 in the illustrated arrangement comprises a wire-type of member that extends rearward and curves upward to define a hook.
- the flange 130 has an offset that is slightly larger than the thickness of the bridge 124 of the subframe assembly 124 .
- the bridge 124 of the subframe assembly 104 can be placed in a valley 132 defined between the flange 130 and the bridge 114 of the frame assembly 102 .
- the bridge 124 is supported by the flange 130 .
- the flange 130 can be omitted or the bridge is not supported by the flange 130 .
- Using the flange 130 to support the bridge 124 increases the structural integrity and facilitates the fitting of the subframe assembly 104 to the frame assembly 102 .
- an outer portion of the illustrated subframe assembly 104 comprises lugs 134 that extend laterally outward from the brow bars 122 .
- the lugs 134 are sized and configured to abut upon bosses 136 defined on the frame assembly 102 .
- the bosses 136 can be integrally formed with the frame assembly 102 or, as in the illustrated arrangement, can be separate components that are secured to the frame assembly.
- the bosses 136 advantageously are positioned behind the projections 118 such that the bosses 136 are generally concealed as are the lugs 134 when the lugs 134 abut the bosses 136 .
- the bosses 136 support the lugs 134 such that the frame assembly 102 supports the outer portions of the subframe assembly 104 .
- the bosses 136 can be positioned above or to one side of the lugs 134 and interlocking configurations can be used to connect the two components.
- the illustrated lugs 134 comprise a lower lip 140 .
- the lower lip 140 preferably is sized and configured to abut a surface of the respective boss 136 . That is, the lower lip 140 helps secure the lug 134 to the boss 136 .
- the eyewear 100 comprises interconnecting components. More particularly, in the illustrated arrangement, the eyewear 100 comprises a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed by each lug and boss combination and comprises a first magnetic member 142 and a second magnetic member 144 .
- one of the magnetic members 142 , 144 may be slightly recessed and the other of the magnetic members 142 , 144 may extend into the recess to define a mechanical interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock.
- Other suitable configurations also can be used.
- the magnetic members 142 , 144 can have any desired orientation relative to each other. In other words, while the illustrated arrangement features the first magnetic member 142 being positioned above the second magnetic member 144 , other arrangements can place the first magnetic member 142 to any side of the second magnetic member 144 or can place the first magnetic member 142 below the second magnetic member 144 .
- the illustrated frame assembly 102 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 110 , the bridge 114 and the temples 112 .
- the frame assembly 102 also comprises nose pads.
- a user slips the subframe assembly 104 behind the frame assembly 102 with the bridge 124 of the subframe assembly 104 slipping into the valley 132 while the lugs 134 are brought into abutment with the bosses 136 .
- the lugs 134 and the bridge 124 of the subframe assembly are generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses 120 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 104 appear to be part of the frame assembly 102 .
- the lenses 120 and the subframe assembly 104 can be lifted from behind the frame assembly 102 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 102 or the lenses 120 and the subframe assembly 104 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly.
- another arrangement of eyewear 200 generally comprises a frame assembly 202 and a lens subframe assembly 204 (see, for example, FIG. 8 ).
- the lens subframe assembly 204 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 202 rearward of the frame assembly 202 such that at least a portion, and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe assembly 204 will be positioned between the frame assembly 202 and the head of a wearer.
- the frame assembly 202 preferably comprises a brow bar 210 , a pair of temples 212 (see FIG. 9 ) and a bridge 214 .
- the brow bar 210 and the temples 212 can be connected in any suitable manner.
- corresponding hinges 216 connect the temples 212 to the brow bar 210 .
- projections 218 extend from the brow bar 210 and the hinges 216 connect the brow bar 210 to the projections 218 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used.
- the bridge 214 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user.
- the brow bar 210 is formed in two portions that are connected by the bridge 214 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge 214 .
- the above described components of the frame assembly 202 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
- the temples 212 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes and the hinges 216 can be omitted in some configurations.
- the lens subframe assembly 204 in the arrangement of FIGS. 7-13 comprises a pair of lenses 220 .
- a brow bar 222 and a bridge 224 combine in the illustrated arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe assembly 204 .
- the brow bar 222 and the bridge 224 have a smaller profile in front view such that the brow bar 222 and the bridge 224 of the subframe assembly 204 can be substantially concealed by the brow bar 210 and the bridge 214 of the frame assembly 202 , as shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 7 .
- the subframe assembly 204 preferably is of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly 204 to be masked.
- the subframe assembly 204 comprises a lower nylon cord 226 that secures the lenses 220 to the brow bar 222 .
- Other manners of securing the lenses 220 within or to the subframe assembly 204 can be used.
- the lenses 220 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like.
- the subframe assembly 204 advantageously mounts to the frame assembly 202 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of removably connected lenses and frames.
- the subframe assembly 204 mounts behind the frame assembly 202 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 202 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 202 from the front.
- the bridge 224 of the subframe assembly 204 is positioned behind the bridge 214 of the frame assembly 202 .
- a protrusion 230 extends rearward from the bridge 214 of the frame assembly 202 .
- more than one protrusion 230 can extend rearward from the bridge 214 .
- the protrusion 230 can have any suitable configuration.
- the protrusion 230 is configured to have a vertical dimension that is the same as or less than a vertical dimension of the bridge 214 of the frame assembly 202 .
- the protrusion 230 in the illustrated arrangement comprises a shelf-like structure with a lip 231 that extends slightly upward at a rear portion of the protrusion 230 . Accordingly, the protrusion 230 can be said to define a hook.
- the lip 231 of the protrusion 230 is offset from the rear of the bridge 214 a distance that is slightly larger than the thickness of the bridge 224 of the subframe assembly 224 .
- the bridge 224 of the subframe assembly 204 can be placed in a valley 232 defined between the lip 231 and the bridge 214 of the frame assembly 202 . In a presently preferred configuration, the bridge 224 is supported by the protrusion 230 .
- the bridge 224 of the illustrated subframe assembly 204 comprises interlocking components. While the lip 231 defines one type of interlocking component, the illustrated arrangement also features a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed by placing a magnetic member in at least one of the bridge 214 and the protrusion 230 . In some configurations, such as the illustrated configuration, at least one first magnetic member 242 is placed in the bridge 214 and at least one second magnetic member 244 is placed in the protrusion 230 .
- one of the magnetic members 242 , 244 may be slightly recessed and the other of the magnetic members 242 , 244 may extend into the recess to define a mechanical interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock.
- Other suitable configurations also can be used.
- the bridge 224 can be connected to a bottom surface or side surface of the protrusion 230 or the bridge 214 in some configurations and the magnetic interlock can be suitably disposed for such a connection.
- the illustrated frame assembly 202 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 210 , the bridge 214 and the temples 212 .
- a user slips the subframe assembly 204 behind the frame assembly 202 with the bridge 224 of the subframe assembly 204 slipping into the valley 232 .
- the bridge 224 of the subframe assembly is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses 220 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 204 appear to be part of the frame assembly 202 .
- the lenses 220 and the subframe assembly 204 can be lifted from behind the frame assembly 202 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 202 or the lenses 220 and the subframe assembly 204 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly.
- FIGS. 14-21 another configuration of eyewear 300 arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustrated. As illustrated, this arrangement comprises a frame assembly 302 and a subframe assembly 304 connectable together in a manner that combines portions of the arrangements shown in and described with reference to FIGS. 1-6 and FIGS. 7-13 .
- a bridge 324 of the subframe assembly 304 is constructed to be mounted to a protrusion 330 that extends from a bridge 314 of the frame assembly 302 .
- this interconnection between the frame assembly 302 and the subframe assembly 304 can be substantially as that described with respect to the eyewear 200 of FIGS. 7-13 .
- the subframe assembly comprises lugs 334 and the frame assembly comprises bosses 336 .
- These components can be substantially as that described with respect to the eyewear 100 of FIGS. 1-6 .
- another arrangement of eyewear 400 generally comprises a frame assembly 402 and a lens subframe assembly 404 (see, for example, FIG. 23 ).
- the lens subframe assembly 404 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 402 rearward of the frame assembly 402 such that at least a portion, and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe assembly 404 will be positioned between the frame assembly 402 and the head of a wearer.
- the frame assembly 402 preferably comprises a brow bar 410 , a pair of temples 412 (see FIG. 24 ) and a bridge 414 .
- the brow bar 410 and the temples 412 can be connected in any suitable manner.
- corresponding hinges 416 connect the temples 412 to the brow bar 410 .
- projections 418 extend from the brow bar 410 and the hinges 416 connect the brow bar 410 to the projections 418 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used.
- the bridge 414 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user.
- the brow bar 410 is formed in two portions that are connected by the bridge 414 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge 414 .
- the above described components of the frame assembly 402 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
- the temples 412 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes and the hinges 416 can be omitted in some configurations.
- the lens subframe assembly 404 in the arrangement of FIGS. 22-26 comprises a pair of lenses 420 .
- a brow bar 422 and a bridge 424 combine in the illustrated arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe assembly 404 .
- the brow bar 422 and the bridge 424 have a smaller profile in front view than the brow bar 410 and bridge 414 of the frame assembly 402 such that the brow bar 422 and the bridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 can be substantially concealed by the brow bar 410 and the bridge 414 of the frame assembly 402 , as shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 22 .
- the subframe assembly 404 preferably is of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly 402 while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly 404 to be masked.
- the subframe assembly 404 comprises a lower nylon cord 426 that secures the lenses 420 to the brow bar 422 .
- Other manners of securing the lenses 420 within or to the subframe assembly 404 can be used.
- the lenses 420 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like.
- the subframe assembly 404 advantageously mounts to the frame assembly 402 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated arrangement, the subframe assembly 404 mounts behind the frame assembly 402 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 402 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 402 from the front.
- the bridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 is positioned behind the bridge 414 of the frame assembly 402 .
- a flange 430 extends rearward from the bridge 414 of the frame assembly 402 .
- the flange 430 can have any suitable configuration and can be configured to cooperate with the bridge 424 as described above with respect to the eyewear 100 of FIGS. 1-6 and the eyewear 200 of FIGS. 7-13 .
- an outer portion of the subframe assembly 404 comprises lugs 434 that extend laterally outward from the brow bars 422 .
- the lugs 434 are sized and configured to abut upon bosses 436 defined on the frame assembly 102 .
- the bosses 436 can be integrally formed with the frame assembly 402 or, as in the illustrated arrangement, can be separate components that are secured to the frame assembly and project rearwardly therefrom.
- the bosses 436 advantageously are positioned behind the projections 418 such that the bosses 436 are generally concealed as are the lugs 434 when the lugs 434 abut the bosses 436 .
- the lugs 434 can be positioned in any desired orientation relative to the bosses 436 and interlocking configurations can be used to connect the two components.
- the bosses 436 generally comprise magnetic members that are positioned in the projections 418 and the bosses comprise interconnecting components together with the lugs 434 .
- the eyewear 100 comprises a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member.
- the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination and comprises a first magnetic member 442 and a second magnetic member 444 .
- one of the magnetic members 442 , 444 may be slightly recessed and the other of the magnetic members 442 , 444 may extend into the recess to define a mechanical interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock.
- Other suitable configurations also can be used.
- the illustrated frame assembly 402 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 410 , the bridge 414 and the temples 412 .
- a user slips the subframe assembly 404 behind the frame assembly 402 with the bridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 slipping into the valley defined by the flange 430 while the lugs 434 are brought into abutment with the bosses 436 .
- the lugs 434 and the bridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 are generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses 420 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 404 appear to be part of the frame assembly 402 .
- the lenses 420 and the subframe assembly 404 can be lifted from behind the frame assembly 402 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 402 or the lenses 420 and the subframe assembly 404 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly.
- another arrangement of eyewear 500 generally comprises a frame assembly 502 and a lens subframe assembly 504 (see, for example, FIG. 28 ).
- the lens subframe assembly 504 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 502 rearward of the frame assembly 502 such that at least a portion, and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe assembly 504 will be positioned between the frame assembly 502 and the face of a wearer.
- the frame assembly 502 preferably comprises a brow bar 510 , a pair of temples 512 (see FIG. 29 ) and a bridge 514 .
- the brow bar 510 and the temples 512 can be connected in any suitable manner.
- corresponding hinges 516 connect the temples 512 to the brow bar 510 .
- projections 518 extend from the brow bar 510 and the hinges 516 connect the brow bar 510 to the projections 518 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used.
- the bridge 514 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user.
- the brow bar 510 is formed in two portions that are connected by the bridge 514 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge 514 .
- the above described components of the frame assembly 502 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
- the temples 512 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes and the hinges 516 can be omitted in some configurations.
- the lens subframe assembly 504 in the arrangement of FIGS. 27-32B comprises a pair of lenses 520 .
- a brow bar 522 and a bridge 524 combine in the illustrated arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe assembly 504 .
- the brow bar 522 and the bridge 524 have a smaller profile in front view than the brow bar 510 and the bridge 514 of the frame assembly 502 such that the brow bar 522 and the bridge 524 of the subframe assembly 504 can be substantially concealed by the brow bar 510 and the bridge 514 of the frame assembly 502 , as shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 27 .
- the subframe assembly 504 preferably is of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly 504 to be masked.
- the subframe assembly 504 comprises a lower nylon cord 526 that secures the lenses 520 to the brow bar 522 .
- Other manners of securing the lenses 520 within or to the subframe assembly 504 can be used.
- the lenses 520 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like.
- the subframe assembly 504 advantageously mounts to the frame assembly 502 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of removably connected lenses and frames.
- the subframe assembly 504 mounts behind the frame assembly 502 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 502 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 502 from the front.
- the bridge 524 of the subframe assembly 504 is positioned behind the bridge 514 of the frame assembly 502 .
- the bridge 524 of the subframe assembly 504 is not directly supported by any structure associated with the frame assembly 502 . In other arrangements, the bridge 524 may be supported.
- the subframe assembly 504 generally comprises a locking tab 560 that extends forward from the subframe assembly 504 .
- the illustrated tab 560 comprises an N-shaped configuration but can comprise any suitable configuration in other arrangements, including a V-shape or a W-shape configuration.
- the tab 560 also comprises a clip portion 562 that is defined between a main body 564 and a finger hold 566 of the tab.
- the frame assembly 502 preferably comprises a receptacle 570 .
- the receptacle 570 defines an aperture 572 sized and configured to accept at least a portion of the tab 560 .
- the illustrated aperture 572 is generally square or rectangular with a slot 573 defined along one side. As illustrated in FIG. 32B , the slot 573 receives the clip portion 562 of the tab 560 when the tab 560 is fully positioned within the receptacle 570 .
- a shoulder that is defined at approximately the clip portion 562 is captured within the receptacle while the clip portion 562 is positioned in the slot 573 of the aperture 572 with the finger hold 566 protruding from the receptacle 570 .
- the tab 560 and the receptacle 570 define a mechanical interlock.
- the tab 560 can be positioned on either one of the frame assembly 502 and the subframe assembly 504 while the receptacle 570 is positioned on the other. Positioning the tab 560 on the subframe assembly 504 , however, allows easier removal of the subframe assembly 504 from the frame assembly 502 .
- the illustrated frame assembly 502 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 510 , the bridge 514 and the temples 512 .
- a user slips the subframe assembly 504 behind the frame assembly 502 with the tab 560 being inserted into the receptacle 570 of the frame assembly 502 .
- the bridge 524 of the subframe assembly 504 is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses 520 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 504 appear to be part of the frame assembly 502 .
- the lenses 520 and the subframe assembly 504 can be removed from behind the frame assembly 502 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 502 or the lenses 520 and the subframe assembly 504 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly.
- FIGS. 33-38 another configuration of eyewear 600 arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustrated. As illustrated, this arrangement comprises a frame assembly 602 and a subframe assembly 604 connectable together in a manner similar to that shown in FIGS. 27-32B . The portions that are the same as the arrangements described above will not be described in this embodiment.
- a tab 660 and a receptacle 670 provide a mechanical interlock.
- the tab 660 differs from the tab 560 described above in that the tab 660 comprises a bulge 662 that is received within the receptacle 670 to lock the tab 660 into the receptacle.
- the receptacle can have a generally square or rectangular aperture 672 without the need for a slot such as that shown in FIG. 31 .
- the bulge 662 can be pushed into the receptacle 670 through the aperture 672 .
- a finger hold 666 can be depressed which results in movement of the bulge into a position that allows the tab 660 to be withdrawn from the receptacle 670 .
- another arrangement of eyewear 700 generally comprises a frame assembly 702 and a pair of lens subframe assemblies 704 (see FIG. 44 ).
- Each of the lens subframe assemblies 704 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 702 rearward of the frame assembly 702 such that at least a portion, and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe assembly 704 will be positioned between the frame assembly 702 and the eye of a wearer.
- the frame assembly 702 preferably comprises a brow bar 710 , a pair of temples 712 (see FIG. 40 ) and a bridge 714 .
- the brow bar 710 and the temples 712 can be connected in any suitable manner.
- corresponding hinges 716 connect the temples 712 to the brow bar 710 .
- projections 718 extend from the brow bar 710 and the hinges 716 connect the brow bar 710 to the projections 718 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used.
- the bridge 714 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user.
- the brow bar 710 is formed in two portions that are connected by the bridge 714 .
- Other suitable configurations can be used including but not limited to a brow bar that forms at least a portion, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, the bridge 714 .
- the above described components of the frame assembly 702 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments.
- the temples 712 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes and the hinges 716 can be omitted in some configurations.
- each of the lenses 720 is secured to the frame assembly 702 with a separate lens subframe assembly 704 .
- the lens subframe assembly 704 comprises a version of a brow bar 722 to which the lens 720 is secured.
- the brow bar 722 desirably has a smaller profile in front view than the brow bar 710 of the frame assembly 702 such that the brow bar 722 of the subframe assembly 704 can be substantially concealed by the brow bar 710 of the frame assembly 702 , as shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 39 .
- the subframe assemblies 704 preferably are of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly while allowing the presence of the subframe assemblies 704 to be masked.
- the subframe assembly 704 comprises a lower nylon cord 726 that secures the lenses 720 to the brow bar 722 of the subframe assembly 704 .
- Other manners of securing the lenses 720 within or to the subframe assembly 704 can be used.
- the lenses 720 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like.
- the subframe assembly 704 advantageously mounts to the frame assembly 702 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of removably connected lenses and frames.
- the subframe assembly 704 mounts behind the frame assembly 702 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 702 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 702 from the front.
- the illustrated subframe assemblies 704 are secured to the frame assembly 702 at in two locations.
- the subframe assemblies 704 are secured at both lateral ends of the subframe assemblies 704 .
- one end of the subframe assembly 704 is secured by a mechanical interlock while the other end is secured by a magnetic interlock.
- the frame assembly comprises an oblong post 780 .
- the oblong post 780 extends rearward from the frame assembly 702 and preferably has a major diameter that extends generally vertically and a minor diameter that extends generally laterally.
- Other shapes and configurations of the post can be used and the post can be placed on the subframe assembly 704 in some configurations.
- an enlarged head 781 (shown in dashed lines in FIGS. 41A and 41B ) is provided on the post 780 such that a major portion of the post 780 has a smaller cross-section than the head.
- the post comprises a magnetic member.
- the subframe assembly 704 preferably comprises a slot 782 that is defined within an ear 784 .
- the ear 784 comprises a magnetic member that can be magnetically secure to the post 780 .
- a portion of the slot 782 preferably is oblong such that the post 780 can be inserted and the lens rotated into a locked position.
- the slot can be disposed on the frame assembly 702 in some configurations.
- the slot 782 can slid onto the post 780 and the subframe assembly 704 can be rotated to lock the subframe assembly 704 to the frame assembly 702 , as shown in FIG. 41B .
- lugs 734 can be an outer portion of the illustrated subframe assembly 704 comprises lugs 734 that extend laterally outward from the brow bars 722 .
- the lugs 734 are sized and configured to abut upon bosses 736 defined on the frame assembly 702 .
- the bosses 736 can be integrally formed with the frame assembly 702 or can be separate components that are secured to the frame assembly 702 .
- the bosses 736 advantageously are positioned behind the projections 718 such that the bosses 736 are generally concealed as are the lugs 734 when the lugs 734 abut the bosses 736 .
- the bosses 736 generally comprise magnetic members that are positioned in the projections 718 and the bosses 736 comprise interconnecting components together with the lugs 734 .
- the eyewear 700 comprises a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member.
- the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination and comprises a first magnetic member 742 and a second magnetic member 744 .
- one of the magnetic members 742 , 744 may be slightly recessed and the other of the magnetic members 742 , 744 may extend into the recess to define a mechanical interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock.
- Other suitable configurations also can be used.
- the post 780 and the ear 784 can be interchanged in location with the boss 736 and the lug 734 in some applications.
- a post 790 of the nose piece 792 can comprise a reduced portion 794 .
- the reduced portion 794 can accommodate a portion of either the lens 720 or the subframe assembly 704 such that the reduced portion 794 can serve to locate the lens 720 relative to the frame assembly 702 and provide another member that helps lock the subframe assembly 704 in position.
- the illustrated frame assembly 702 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 710 , the bridge 714 and the temples 712 .
- a user slips the subframe assembly 704 behind the frame assembly 702 and slips the post 780 into the slot 782 of the ear 784 .
- the subframe assembly 704 is then rotated about 90 degrees and the lug 734 is brought into engagement with the boss 736 such that the subframe assembly 704 is supported in a generally locked position relative to the frame assembly 702 .
- the other lens 720 can be installed to the frame assembly 702 in the same manner.
- the subframe assembly 704 is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses 720 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 704 appear to be part of the frame assembly 702 . Nonetheless, when the user desires, the lenses 720 and the subframe assemblies 704 can be removed from behind the frame assembly 702 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assemblies can be placed in the frame assembly 702 or the lenses 720 and the subframe assemblies 704 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly.
- the eyewear assembly 800 features a frame assembly 802 to which a subframe assembly 804 can be mounted. Because of the similarity to the arrangements described above, many of the base components of the frame assembly 802 and the subframe assembly 804 will not be described in further detail. Rather, reference may be had to the descriptions set forth above for such components. For instance, the frame assembly 802 is very similar to the frame assembly 702 described with reference to FIGS. 39-48 .
- a primary difference between the prior embodiment and the embodiment of FIGS. 49-50 is the use of a single subframe assembly 804 .
- the subframe assembly 804 comprises a bridge 824 that connects a pair of brow bars 822 .
- the bridge 824 in the illustrated arrangement comprises a pair of slots 882 that can receive a corresponding pair of posts 870 .
- the posts can be configured in any suitable manner, including the manners set forth in the embodiment above.
- the slots 882 and the posts 870 define a mechanical interlock between the frame assembly 802 and the subframe assembly 804 .
- a magnetic interlock also is provided. Any suitable construction can be used and, in the illustrated arrangement, the magnetic interlock is the same as the arrangement in the embodiment described directly above. Accordingly, a pair of lugs 834 is positioned on an outer portion of the illustrated subframe assembly 804 .
- the lugs 834 are sized and configured to abut upon bosses 836 defined on the frame assembly 802 .
- the bosses 836 can be integrally formed with the frame assembly 802 or can be separate components that are secured to the frame assembly 802 .
- the bosses 836 advantageously are positioned behind projections 818 such that the bosses 836 are generally concealed as are the lugs 834 when the lugs 834 abut the bosses 836 .
- the bosses 836 generally comprise magnetic members that are positioned in the projections 818 and the bosses 836 comprise interconnecting components together with the lugs 834 .
- the eyewear 800 comprises a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member.
- the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination and comprises a first magnetic member 842 and a second magnetic member 844 .
- one of the magnetic members 842 , 844 may be slightly recessed and the other of the magnetic members 842 , 844 may extend into the recess to define a mechanical interlock in addition to defining a magnetic interlock.
- Other suitable configurations also can be used.
- the posts 880 and slots 884 can be interchanged in location with the boss 836 and the lug 834 in some applications.
- the illustrated frame assembly 802 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the brow bar 810 , the bridge 814 and the temples 812 .
- a user slips the subframe assembly 804 behind the frame assembly 802 with the slots 884 being slid onto the posts 880 of the frame assembly 502 .
- the bridge 824 of the subframe assembly 804 is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and the lenses 820 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 804 appear to be part of the frame assembly 802 .
- the lenses 820 and the subframe assembly 804 can be removed from behind the frame assembly 802 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 802 or the lenses 820 and the subframe assembly 804 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly.
- the present invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments, examples and variations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof.
- the exterior shape and dimensions of the frame assemblies, subframe assemblies, mechanical interlocks and magnetic interlocks can be any suitable shape or configuration, including the use of curved or straight surfaces in the place of straight or curved surfaces.
- the connections preferably are made with the lens assembly resting on a surface of the frame assembly.
- the lens assembly can be positioned such that the frame assembly rests on a portion of the lens assembly. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of any of the many embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Moreover, some variations that have been described with respect to one embodiment and not another embodiment can be used with such other embodiments. For instance, the subframe assembly can be supported in one, two or more locations on the frame assembly. Many variations have been described herein and cross-application is intended where physically possible. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
Abstract
An eyewear system enables a person to switch lenses among a variety of frames or switch a variety of lenses within a single frame. The lenses are positioned in one or more subframe assemblies that can be easily attached to and detached from a frame assembly that may not otherwise contain lenses.
Description
- This application claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/508,674, filed on Oct. 2, 2003, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention generally relates to eyewear frames and lenses. More particularly, the present invention relates to an eyewear assembly in which a single set of lenses can be inserted and removed from behind a plurality of frames or multiple sets of lenses can be inserted and removed from behind a single frame.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- The cost of quality prescription lenses has risen dramatically in the past ten years. Many people who wear eyeglasses today desire so-called progressive lenses in which the power of the lens varies along the surface of the lens. Unfortunately, progressive lenses are more expensive than ordinary prescription lenses or bifocal lenses. Additionally, a type of thin lens that is designed to replace a relatively thicker lens also is available but has an elevated cost. Further, coatings and the like can be added to a lens to, for example, reduce glare or allow the lens to change tint. These coatings also increase the cost of the lens.
- At the same time, people who wear eyeglasses often purchase more than one pair of eyeglasses for different functional and aesthetic reasons. For instance, different eyeglasses may be purchased to increase strength or comfort, to alter the fit or the weight, to vary the flexibility or the rigidity or to provide a different aesthetic look by changing the shape of the frame or the coloring of the frame. This, of course, requires the purchase of a complete set of eyewear, including the frame and the expensive prescription lenses.
- On the other hand, some people purchase more than one pair of eyewear having a single style of frame but use one of the frames for tinted lenses and the other for non-tinted lenses. Of course, these people must then carry both pair of eyewear and must absorb the additional costs associated with the second frame.
- It would be desirable to create a system of eyewear that enables a person to use a single pair of lenses with multiple frame structures or a single frame structure with multiple pairs of lenses.
- In the first arrangement, the frame structures can vary among one another by virtue of functionality, features or aesthetic appearance. As such, variations among the frames can be provided by design, materials used, coloring, shape, decorations, construction or the like. Such a system would allow a person who wears eyewear to have several sets of frames without the need for more than one set of lenses.
- In the second arrangement, the lenses can vary among one another by virtue of tinting or magnification features, for instance. Different eyeglass lenses may also be purchased for various vision correcting purposes, for purposes such as glare reduction, magnification, protection from UV rays, lighter weights, as for aesthetic reasons such as thinness of the lenses, tints and coloring of the lenses. Thus, a person can maintain a single frame in which the lenses are removed and replaced quickly and easily to accommodate changes in the lenses. For instance, sun lenses can be installed in place of clear lenses or a magnifying lens can be used in place of a wearer's usual lens.
- Accordingly, one aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention involves providing a user with one pair of lenses that can be easily attached and detached to a plurality of complementary frame designs.
- Another aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention involves enabling a user to remove the lenses from one frame and insert the lenses in another frame without the use of mechanical tools or equipment or enabling a user to remove at least one lens from a frame and replace that lens with another lens without the use of mechanical tools or equipment.
- A further aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention involves enabling an eyeglass wearer to easily attach to and detach from a single pair of lenses multiple frames without contacting with one's fingers a region of the lenses through which one looks.
- An aspect of the present invention also involves an eyeglass assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe assembly. The frame assembly comprises a pair of temples, a front side and a back side. The back side of the frame assembly is closer to a wearer's face than the front side. The subframe assembly comprises at least one lens. The subframe assembly also comprises a front side and a back side. The back side of the subframe assembly is closer to the wearer's face than the front side of the subframe assembly. The subframe assembly is secured to the frame assembly at least in part by at least one pair of magnetic members such that the front side of the subframe assembly faces the back side of the frame assembly and the subframe assembly is at least partially positioned between the frame assembly and the wear's face. A first magnetic member of the at least one pair of magnetic members is a magnet that is secured to one of the frame assembly and the subframe assembly and a second magnetic member of the at least one pair of magnetic members is a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet and the second magnetic member being secured to the other of the frame assembly and the subframe assembly such that the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are generally aligned when the subframe assembly is secured to the frame assembly.
- Another aspect of the present invention involves an eyeglass assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe assembly. The frame assembly comprises a front side and a back side with the back side being closer to a face of a wearer than the front side. The frame assembly further comprises a first brow bar, a second brow bar and a bridge connecting the first brow bar to the second brow bar. A first projection extends from the first brow bar and a second projection extends from the second brow bar. A first temple is connected to the first projection and a second temple connected to the second projection. The subframe assembly comprises a front side and a back side. The back side is closer to the face of a wearer than the front side. The subframe assembly further comprises a brow bar with a lens being secured to the brow bar. The subframe assembly is secured to the frame assembly such that the front side of the subframe assembly faces the back side of the frame assembly and such that the front side of the subframe assembly generally is positioned rearward of the front side of the frame assembly.
- A further aspect of the present invention involves a method of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system. The eyewear system comprises a first subframe assembly that comprises a first lens, a second subframe assembly that comprises a second lens, the second lens not being matched to the first lens, and a frame assembly that will accommodate individually both the first subframe assembly and the second subframe assembly. The method comprises releasing and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the frame assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the frame assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the frame assembly.
- A further aspect of the present invention involves a method of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system. The eyewear system comprises a first subframe assembly that comprises a first lens and a second lens, and at least a second subframe assembly that comprises a different first lens and a different second lens, and a frame assembly that will accommodate individually each subframe assembly, which is not limited in number. In other words, three, four or more subframes can be used. The method comprises releasing and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the frame assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the frame assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the frame assembly.
- An additional aspect of the present invention involves a method of exchanging frames in an eyewear system. The eyewear system comprises a first frame assembly that does not comprise a lens, a second frame assembly that does not comprise a lens, and a subframe assembly that comprises a lens where the subframe assembly is sized and configured to be accommodated within the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly. The method comprises releasing and removing the subframe assembly from behind the first frame assembly, placing the subframe assembly behind the second frame assembly and securing the subframe assembly to the second frame assembly.
- These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings of several preferred embodiments. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate and not to limit the invention. The drawings comprise the figures briefly described below.
-
FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a first eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses. -
FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses. -
FIG. 3 is a side elevation of the first eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the first eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the first eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 1 with the first pair of lenses shown removed from the first frame. -
FIG. 6 is a section view taken along the line 6-6 inFIG. 4 . -
FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of a second eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses. -
FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the second eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 9 is a side elevation of the second eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the second eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the first pair of lenses as presented inFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the first frame as presented inFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 13 is a section view taken along the line 13-13 inFIG. 12 . -
FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of a third eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses. -
FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the third eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 16 is a side elevation of the third eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 14 . -
FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the third eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 14 . -
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a portion of the first pair of lenses as presented inFIG. 14 . -
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a portion of the first frame as presented inFIG. 14 . -
FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a portion of the first pair of lenses as presented inFIG. 14 . -
FIG. 21 is a top plan view of a portion of the first frame as presented inFIG. 14 . -
FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of a fourth eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses. -
FIG. 23 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the fourth eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 24 is a side elevation of the fourth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 22 . -
FIG. 25 is a top plan view of the fourth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 22 . -
FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of the fourth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 22 with the first pair of lenses shown removed from the first frame. -
FIG. 27 is a front elevation view of a fifth eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses. -
FIG. 28 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the fifth eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 29 is a side elevation of the fifth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 27 . -
FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the fifth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 27 . -
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a portion of the fifth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 27 with the first pair of lenses shown removed from the first frame. -
FIGS. 32A and 32B are a perspective view of a portion of the fifth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 27 with the first pair of lenses shown installed on the first frame. -
FIG. 33 is a front elevation view of a sixth eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses. -
FIG. 34 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the sixth eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 35 is a side elevation of the sixth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 33 . -
FIG. 36 is a top plan view of the sixth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 33 . -
FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a portion of the sixth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 33 with the first pair of lenses shown removed from the first frame. -
FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a portion of the sixth eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 33 with the first pair of lenses shown installed on the first frame. -
FIG. 39 is a front elevation view of a seventh eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a pair of first lenses. -
FIG. 40 is a front elevation view of the pair of first lenses of the seventh eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 41A is a perspective view of one of the first lenses being connected to the first frame of the seventh eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 39 . -
FIG. 41B is a perspective view of the first lens showing inFIG. 41A after being rotated into position on the first frame of the seventh eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 39 . -
FIGS. 42A and 42B illustrate in front view the fitting of the lens to the frame shown inFIGS. 41A and 41B . -
FIG. 43 is a front elevation view of the first frame of the seventh eyewear assembly as presented inFIG. 39 . -
FIG. 44 is a front elevation view of the pair of first lenses of the seventh eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 45 is a side elevation view of the seventh eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 46 is a perspective view of a portion of the seventh eyewear. -
FIG. 47 is a sectioned view taken along the line 47-47 inFIG. 46 . -
FIG. 48 is a partially sectioned view of a portion of the seventh eyewear assembly showing a connection between one of the first lenses and the first frame. -
FIG. 49 is a front elevation view of an eighth eyewear assembly comprising a first frame and a first pair of lenses. -
FIG. 50 is a front elevation view of the first pair of lenses of the eighth eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 51 is a top plan view of the eighth eyewear assembly. -
FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a portion of the eighth eyewear assembly. -
FIGS. 53 and 54 illustrate in schematic fashion that a single pair of lenses can be used interchangeably with a plurality of frames to create some flexibility in eyewear fashion and function. -
FIG. 55 illustrates in schematic fashion that a single frame assembly can be used with a variety of different lens combinations. - Prior to describing each of the illustrated embodiments, some general comments are set forth. As shown in the drawings, various mechanisms can be provided by which a set of lenses can be removably connected to a frame assembly. In most embodiments of the present invention, the lens assembly will be mounted rearward of a front surface, and more preferably a rear surface, of the frame assembly. Desirably, the frame assembly will obscure at least a portion of the lens assembly. As such, certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention can be used with eyeglasses, sunglasses, goggles, protective eyewear and the like.
- Thus, either the lenses can be replaced by other lenses relative to a single frame assembly or the frame assembly can be replaced by another frame assembly relative to the lenses or both. In one embodiment, auxiliary lenses can be placed behind the primary lenses such that magnifiers, sun lenses, corrective lenses or the like can be positioned behind a primary lens. As shown in
FIGS. 53 and 54 , a single set of lenses contained in a subframe assembly can be installed in any number of frame assemblies to provide completed eyewear.FIG. 53 shows an arrangement with a mechanical interconnection between the subframe assembly and the frame assembly whileFIG. 54 shows an arrangement with a magnetic interconnection between the subframe assembly and the frame assembly.FIG. 55 illustrates the use of a single frame assembly with subframe assemblies comprising blue lenses, brown lenses and clear lenses. Other lens variations also can be used. Configurations such as those shown inFIGS. 53-55 will address the desires to use either a single set of lenses with multiple frames, a single frame with multiple sets of lenses or multiples sets of lenses with multiple frames. - As used herein and as discussed in further detail below, the frame assembly preferably comprises a brow bar, a pair of temples and a bridge but other suitable frame assemblies also can be used. The frame can be made of any suitable material and in any suitable manner. Notably, the frame assembly advantageously is not provided with any lenses that are secured within optical openings of the frame assembly in any typical fashion.
- Instead, the lenses preferably are mounted in the sub-frame or in a pair of sub-frames that are independently mountable to the frame assembly. The sub-frame or sub-frames in the illustrated arrangements preferably do not feature temples or nose support pads. Instead, once mounted in the frame assembly, the frame assembly provides these components. In some embodiments, however, the frame assembly may be made without the temples and/or the nose support pads and these components can be mounted to the sub-frame or sub-frames. Such a construction, however, reduces the illusion of an integrated frame and lens assembly. The sub-frame preferably is of the semi-rimless variety to increase the number of frame assembly variations with which the sub-frame can be used. In some embodiments, the sub-frame can comprise a very narrow frame, however, the integrity of the frame assembly can become a concern in such embodiments.
- The illustrated embodiments depict two general types of interconnection techniques with which the subframe assembly can be secured to the frame assembly: magnetic interlock and mechanical interlock. A combination of a magnetic interlock and a mechanical interlock also can be used. While a few mechanical interlocking constructions are illustrated, a variety of other suitable types of interlocking constructions also can be used. In some arrangements, these mechanical interlocks can be snap-fit. With respect to the magnetic interlock, magnetic members are provided on at least one of the frame assembly or the lens assembly. The magnetic members can be a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet (e.g., a ferrous metal). Therefore, each pair of attracting magnetic members includes at least one magnetic member that is a magnet while the other magnetic member may be a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet. The magnetic members can have any suitable shape and size. The magnetic members can be embedded, recessed, positioned flush with or raised from the surface to which or in which the magnetic member is secured. Preferably, a pair of magnetic members is provided such that one of the pair is in or on the frame assembly and the other is in or on a corresponding region of the subframe assembly. The magnetic members can be attached in any suitable manner, including without limitation, embedding, adhering, or through the use of a sleeve or housing. In some embodiments, the frame assembly or the subframe assembly can include a component made of a magnetic member, such as a brow bar or the like. The magnetic members can be used to join the frame assembly to the subframe assembly regardless of whether there is direct contact between the paired magnetic members. Accordingly, “magnetically secured” means that the magnetic force between the respective magnetic members is sufficient to hold the subframe assembly in a usable position relative to the frame assembly.
- The specific illustrated embodiments now will be described, beginning with the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 1-6 . In the arrangement ofFIGS. 1-6 , theeyewear 100 generally comprises aframe assembly 102 and a lens subframe assembly 104 (see, for example,FIG. 2 ). As introduced above, thelens subframe assembly 104 preferably is mountable to theframe assembly 102 rearward of theframe assembly 102 such that at least a portion of thelens subframe assembly 104 will be positioned between theframe assembly 102 and the eye of a wearer. As used herein, the term rearward means on the side adjacent the eyes and forward means in the opposite direction. - The
frame assembly 102 preferably comprises abrow bar 110, a pair oftemples 112 and abridge 114. Thebrow bar 110 and thetemples 112 can be connected in any suitable manner. In the arrangement illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 3 , corresponding hinges 116 connect thetemples 112 to thebrow bar 110. More particularly,projections 118 extend from thebrow bar 110 and thehinges 116 connect thebrow bar 110 to theprojections 118. Other suitable configurations can be used. - The
bridge 114 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated arrangement, thebrow bar 110 actually is formed in two portions that are connected by thebridge 114. Other suitable configurations can be used including, but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, thebridge 114. Any of the above described components of theframe assembly 102 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments. For instance, thetemples 112 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes. Theframe assembly 102 also can comprise other structures, such as nose pads and the structures that connect the nose pads to the rest of theframe assembly 102. - With reference now to
FIG. 2 , thelens subframe assembly 104 in the arrangement ofFIGS. 1-6 comprises a pair oflenses 120. Abrow bar 122 and abridge 124 combine in the illustrated arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of thelens subframe assembly 104. Preferably, thebrow bar 122 and thebridge 124 have a smaller profile in front view such that thebrow bar 122 and thebridge 124 of thesubframe assembly 104 can be concealed by thebrow bar 110 and thebridge 114 of theframe assembly 102, as shown by the hidden lines inFIG. 1 . - The
subframe assembly 104 preferably is of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly while allowing the presence of thesubframe assembly 104 to be masked. In the arrangement ofFIGS. 1-6 , thesubframe assembly 104 comprises alower nylon cord 126 that secures thelenses 120 to thebrow bar 122. Other manners of securing thelenses 120 within or to thesubframe assembly 104 can be used. For instance, in some arrangements, thelenses 120 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like. - As described above, the
subframe assembly 104 advantageously mounts to theframe assembly 102 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated arrangement, thesubframe assembly 104 mounts behind theframe assembly 102 and the mounting structures are positioned behind theframe assembly 102 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing theframe assembly 102 from the front. - With reference to
FIGS. 4 and 6 , thebridge 124 of thesubframe assembly 104 is positioned behind thebridge 114 of theframe assembly 102. Aflange 130 extends rearward from thebridge 114 of the illustratedframe assembly 102. The flange can have any suitable configuration. Desirably, theflange 130 is configured to have a vertical dimension that is the same as or less than a vertical dimension of thebridge 114 of theframe assembly 102. Theflange 130 in the illustrated arrangement comprises a wire-type of member that extends rearward and curves upward to define a hook. Theflange 130 has an offset that is slightly larger than the thickness of thebridge 124 of thesubframe assembly 124. Thebridge 124 of thesubframe assembly 104 can be placed in avalley 132 defined between theflange 130 and thebridge 114 of theframe assembly 102. In a presently preferred configuration, thebridge 124 is supported by theflange 130. In other configurations, theflange 130 can be omitted or the bridge is not supported by theflange 130. Using theflange 130 to support thebridge 124 increases the structural integrity and facilitates the fitting of thesubframe assembly 104 to theframe assembly 102. - With reference to
FIGS. 4 and 5 , an outer portion of the illustratedsubframe assembly 104 compriseslugs 134 that extend laterally outward from the brow bars 122. Thelugs 134 are sized and configured to abut uponbosses 136 defined on theframe assembly 102. Thebosses 136 can be integrally formed with theframe assembly 102 or, as in the illustrated arrangement, can be separate components that are secured to the frame assembly. In the illustrated arrangement, thebosses 136 advantageously are positioned behind theprojections 118 such that thebosses 136 are generally concealed as are thelugs 134 when thelugs 134 abut thebosses 136. Moreover, in the illustrated arrangement, thebosses 136 support thelugs 134 such that theframe assembly 102 supports the outer portions of thesubframe assembly 104. In some arrangements, thebosses 136 can be positioned above or to one side of thelugs 134 and interlocking configurations can be used to connect the two components. - With continued reference to
FIG. 5 , the illustratedlugs 134 comprise alower lip 140. Thelower lip 140 preferably is sized and configured to abut a surface of therespective boss 136. That is, thelower lip 140 helps secure thelug 134 to theboss 136. To further secure thelug 134 and theboss 136 together, theeyewear 100 comprises interconnecting components. More particularly, in the illustrated arrangement, theeyewear 100 comprises a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed by each lug and boss combination and comprises a firstmagnetic member 142 and a secondmagnetic member 144. In some configurations, one of themagnetic members magnetic members magnetic members magnetic member 142 being positioned above the secondmagnetic member 144, other arrangements can place the firstmagnetic member 142 to any side of the secondmagnetic member 144 or can place the firstmagnetic member 142 below the secondmagnetic member 144. - In use, the illustrated
frame assembly 102 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: thebrow bar 110, thebridge 114 and thetemples 112. In some arrangements, such as the illustrated arrangement, theframe assembly 102 also comprises nose pads. To provide the lenses, a user slips thesubframe assembly 104 behind theframe assembly 102 with thebridge 124 of thesubframe assembly 104 slipping into thevalley 132 while thelugs 134 are brought into abutment with thebosses 136. In such a position, thelugs 134 and thebridge 124 of the subframe assembly are generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and thelenses 120 that are positioned in thesubframe assembly 104 appear to be part of theframe assembly 102. Nonetheless, when the user desires, thelenses 120 and thesubframe assembly 104 can be lifted from behind theframe assembly 102 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in theframe assembly 102 or thelenses 120 and thesubframe assembly 104 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly. - With reference now to
FIGS. 7-13 , another arrangement ofeyewear 200 generally comprises a frame assembly 202 and a lens subframe assembly 204 (see, for example,FIG. 8 ). Thelens subframe assembly 204 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 202 rearward of the frame assembly 202 such that at least a portion, and preferably the majority, of thelens subframe assembly 204 will be positioned between the frame assembly 202 and the head of a wearer. - The frame assembly 202 preferably comprises a
brow bar 210, a pair of temples 212 (seeFIG. 9 ) and abridge 214. Thebrow bar 210 and thetemples 212 can be connected in any suitable manner. In the arrangement illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 3 , corresponding hinges 216 connect thetemples 212 to thebrow bar 210. More particularly,projections 218 extend from thebrow bar 210 and thehinges 216 connect thebrow bar 210 to theprojections 218. Other suitable configurations can be used. - The
bridge 214 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated arrangement, thebrow bar 210 is formed in two portions that are connected by thebridge 214. Other suitable configurations can be used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, thebridge 214. The above described components of the frame assembly 202 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments. For instance, thetemples 212 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes and thehinges 216 can be omitted in some configurations. - With reference now to
FIG. 8 , thelens subframe assembly 204 in the arrangement ofFIGS. 7-13 comprises a pair oflenses 220. Abrow bar 222 and abridge 224 combine in the illustrated arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of thelens subframe assembly 204. Preferably, thebrow bar 222 and thebridge 224 have a smaller profile in front view such that thebrow bar 222 and thebridge 224 of thesubframe assembly 204 can be substantially concealed by thebrow bar 210 and thebridge 214 of the frame assembly 202, as shown by the hidden lines inFIG. 7 . - The
subframe assembly 204 preferably is of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly while allowing the presence of thesubframe assembly 204 to be masked. In the arrangement ofFIGS. 7-13 , thesubframe assembly 204 comprises alower nylon cord 226 that secures thelenses 220 to thebrow bar 222. Other manners of securing thelenses 220 within or to thesubframe assembly 204 can be used. For instance, in some arrangements, thelenses 220 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like. - As described above, the
subframe assembly 204 advantageously mounts to the frame assembly 202 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated arrangement, thesubframe assembly 204 mounts behind the frame assembly 202 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 202 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 202 from the front. - With reference to
FIG. 10 , thebridge 224 of thesubframe assembly 204 is positioned behind thebridge 214 of the frame assembly 202. Aprotrusion 230 extends rearward from thebridge 214 of the frame assembly 202. In some arrangements, more than oneprotrusion 230 can extend rearward from thebridge 214. Theprotrusion 230 can have any suitable configuration. Desirably, theprotrusion 230 is configured to have a vertical dimension that is the same as or less than a vertical dimension of thebridge 214 of the frame assembly 202. - The
protrusion 230 in the illustrated arrangement comprises a shelf-like structure with alip 231 that extends slightly upward at a rear portion of theprotrusion 230. Accordingly, theprotrusion 230 can be said to define a hook. Thelip 231 of theprotrusion 230 is offset from the rear of the bridge 214 a distance that is slightly larger than the thickness of thebridge 224 of thesubframe assembly 224. Thebridge 224 of thesubframe assembly 204 can be placed in avalley 232 defined between thelip 231 and thebridge 214 of the frame assembly 202. In a presently preferred configuration, thebridge 224 is supported by theprotrusion 230. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 11 and 12 , thebridge 224 of the illustratedsubframe assembly 204 comprises interlocking components. While thelip 231 defines one type of interlocking component, the illustrated arrangement also features a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed by placing a magnetic member in at least one of thebridge 214 and theprotrusion 230. In some configurations, such as the illustrated configuration, at least one firstmagnetic member 242 is placed in thebridge 214 and at least one secondmagnetic member 244 is placed in theprotrusion 230. In some configurations, one of themagnetic members magnetic members bridge 224 can be connected to a bottom surface or side surface of theprotrusion 230 or thebridge 214 in some configurations and the magnetic interlock can be suitably disposed for such a connection. - In use, the illustrated frame assembly 202 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the
brow bar 210, thebridge 214 and thetemples 212. To provide the lenses, a user slips thesubframe assembly 204 behind the frame assembly 202 with thebridge 224 of thesubframe assembly 204 slipping into thevalley 232. In such a position, thebridge 224 of the subframe assembly is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and thelenses 220 that are positioned in thesubframe assembly 204 appear to be part of the frame assembly 202. Nonetheless, when the user desires, thelenses 220 and thesubframe assembly 204 can be lifted from behind the frame assembly 202 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 202 or thelenses 220 and thesubframe assembly 204 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly. - With reference now to
FIGS. 14-21 , another configuration ofeyewear 300 arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustrated. As illustrated, this arrangement comprises aframe assembly 302 and asubframe assembly 304 connectable together in a manner that combines portions of the arrangements shown in and described with reference toFIGS. 1-6 andFIGS. 7-13 . - As illustrated, a
bridge 324 of thesubframe assembly 304 is constructed to be mounted to aprotrusion 330 that extends from abridge 314 of theframe assembly 302. Thus, this interconnection between theframe assembly 302 and thesubframe assembly 304 can be substantially as that described with respect to theeyewear 200 ofFIGS. 7-13 . - Moreover, as illustrated, the subframe assembly comprises
lugs 334 and the frame assembly comprisesbosses 336. These components can be substantially as that described with respect to theeyewear 100 ofFIGS. 1-6 . - Because these components have been described above, further is deemed unnecessary and duplicative. Where desired or appropriate, any of the variations described above also can be used with the embodiment of
FIGS. 14-21 . - With reference now to
FIGS. 22-26 , another arrangement ofeyewear 400 generally comprises a frame assembly 402 and a lens subframe assembly 404 (see, for example,FIG. 23 ). The lens subframe assembly 404 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 402 rearward of the frame assembly 402 such that at least a portion, and preferably the majority, of the lens subframe assembly 404 will be positioned between the frame assembly 402 and the head of a wearer. - The frame assembly 402 preferably comprises a
brow bar 410, a pair of temples 412 (seeFIG. 24 ) and abridge 414. Thebrow bar 410 and thetemples 412 can be connected in any suitable manner. In the arrangement illustrated inFIGS. 22 and 24 , corresponding hinges 416 connect thetemples 412 to thebrow bar 410. More particularly,projections 418 extend from thebrow bar 410 and thehinges 416 connect thebrow bar 410 to theprojections 418. Other suitable configurations can be used. - The
bridge 414 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated arrangement, thebrow bar 410 is formed in two portions that are connected by thebridge 414. Other suitable configurations can be used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, thebridge 414. The above described components of the frame assembly 402 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments. For instance, thetemples 412 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes and thehinges 416 can be omitted in some configurations. - With reference now to
FIG. 2 , the lens subframe assembly 404 in the arrangement ofFIGS. 22-26 comprises a pair oflenses 420. Abrow bar 422 and abridge 424 combine in the illustrated arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of the lens subframe assembly 404. Preferably, thebrow bar 422 and thebridge 424 have a smaller profile in front view than thebrow bar 410 and bridge 414 of the frame assembly 402 such that thebrow bar 422 and thebridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 can be substantially concealed by thebrow bar 410 and thebridge 414 of the frame assembly 402, as shown by the hidden lines inFIG. 22 . - The subframe assembly 404 preferably is of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly 402 while allowing the presence of the subframe assembly 404 to be masked. In the arrangement of
FIGS. 22-26 , the subframe assembly 404 comprises alower nylon cord 426 that secures thelenses 420 to thebrow bar 422. Other manners of securing thelenses 420 within or to the subframe assembly 404 can be used. For instance, in some arrangements, thelenses 420 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like. - As described above, the subframe assembly 404 advantageously mounts to the frame assembly 402 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated arrangement, the subframe assembly 404 mounts behind the frame assembly 402 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 402 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 402 from the front.
- With reference to
FIG. 25 , thebridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 is positioned behind thebridge 414 of the frame assembly 402. Aflange 430 extends rearward from thebridge 414 of the frame assembly 402. Theflange 430 can have any suitable configuration and can be configured to cooperate with thebridge 424 as described above with respect to theeyewear 100 ofFIGS. 1-6 and theeyewear 200 ofFIGS. 7-13 . - With reference to
FIGS. 22 and 26 , an outer portion of the subframe assembly 404 compriseslugs 434 that extend laterally outward from the brow bars 422. Thelugs 434 are sized and configured to abut uponbosses 436 defined on theframe assembly 102. Thebosses 436 can be integrally formed with the frame assembly 402 or, as in the illustrated arrangement, can be separate components that are secured to the frame assembly and project rearwardly therefrom. In the illustrated arrangement, thebosses 436 advantageously are positioned behind theprojections 418 such that thebosses 436 are generally concealed as are thelugs 434 when thelugs 434 abut thebosses 436. Thelugs 434 can be positioned in any desired orientation relative to thebosses 436 and interlocking configurations can be used to connect the two components. - In the illustrated arrangement, the
bosses 436 generally comprise magnetic members that are positioned in theprojections 418 and the bosses comprise interconnecting components together with thelugs 434. More particularly, in the illustrated arrangement, theeyewear 100 comprises a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination and comprises a firstmagnetic member 442 and a secondmagnetic member 444. In some configurations, one of themagnetic members magnetic members - In use, the illustrated frame assembly 402 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the
brow bar 410, thebridge 414 and thetemples 412. To provide thelenses 420, a user slips the subframe assembly 404 behind the frame assembly 402 with thebridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 slipping into the valley defined by theflange 430 while thelugs 434 are brought into abutment with thebosses 436. In such a position, thelugs 434 and thebridge 424 of the subframe assembly 404 are generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and thelenses 420 that are positioned in the subframe assembly 404 appear to be part of the frame assembly 402. Nonetheless, when the user desires, thelenses 420 and the subframe assembly 404 can be lifted from behind the frame assembly 402 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 402 or thelenses 420 and the subframe assembly 404 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly. - With reference now to
FIGS. 27-32B , another arrangement ofeyewear 500 generally comprises a frame assembly 502 and a lens subframe assembly 504 (see, for example,FIG. 28 ). Thelens subframe assembly 504 preferably is mountable to the frame assembly 502 rearward of the frame assembly 502 such that at least a portion, and preferably the majority, of thelens subframe assembly 504 will be positioned between the frame assembly 502 and the face of a wearer. - The frame assembly 502 preferably comprises a
brow bar 510, a pair of temples 512 (seeFIG. 29 ) and abridge 514. Thebrow bar 510 and thetemples 512 can be connected in any suitable manner. In the arrangement illustrated inFIGS. 29 and 30 , corresponding hinges 516 connect thetemples 512 to thebrow bar 510. More particularly,projections 518 extend from thebrow bar 510 and thehinges 516 connect thebrow bar 510 to theprojections 518. Other suitable configurations can be used. - The
bridge 514 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated arrangement, thebrow bar 510 is formed in two portions that are connected by thebridge 514. Other suitable configurations can be used, including but not limited to, a brow bar that forms at least a portion of, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, thebridge 514. The above described components of the frame assembly 502 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments. For instance, thetemples 512 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes and thehinges 516 can be omitted in some configurations. - With reference now to
FIG. 28 , thelens subframe assembly 504 in the arrangement ofFIGS. 27-32B comprises a pair oflenses 520. Abrow bar 522 and abridge 524 combine in the illustrated arrangement to define a rigid frame structure of thelens subframe assembly 504. Preferably, thebrow bar 522 and thebridge 524 have a smaller profile in front view than thebrow bar 510 and thebridge 514 of the frame assembly 502 such that thebrow bar 522 and thebridge 524 of thesubframe assembly 504 can be substantially concealed by thebrow bar 510 and thebridge 514 of the frame assembly 502, as shown by the hidden lines inFIG. 27 . - The
subframe assembly 504 preferably is of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly while allowing the presence of thesubframe assembly 504 to be masked. In the arrangement ofFIGS. 27-32B , thesubframe assembly 504 comprises alower nylon cord 526 that secures thelenses 520 to thebrow bar 522. Other manners of securing thelenses 520 within or to thesubframe assembly 504 can be used. For instance, in some arrangements, thelenses 520 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like. - As described above, the
subframe assembly 504 advantageously mounts to the frame assembly 502 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated arrangement, thesubframe assembly 504 mounts behind the frame assembly 502 and the mounting structures are positioned behind the frame assembly 502 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing the frame assembly 502 from the front. - With reference to
FIG. 10 , thebridge 524 of thesubframe assembly 504 is positioned behind thebridge 514 of the frame assembly 502. In the illustrated arrangement, thebridge 524 of thesubframe assembly 504 is not directly supported by any structure associated with the frame assembly 502. In other arrangements, thebridge 524 may be supported. - With reference to
FIGS. 31, 32A and 32B, thesubframe assembly 504 generally comprises alocking tab 560 that extends forward from thesubframe assembly 504. The illustratedtab 560 comprises an N-shaped configuration but can comprise any suitable configuration in other arrangements, including a V-shape or a W-shape configuration. Thetab 560 also comprises a clip portion 562 that is defined between amain body 564 and afinger hold 566 of the tab. - The frame assembly 502 preferably comprises a
receptacle 570. Thereceptacle 570 defines anaperture 572 sized and configured to accept at least a portion of thetab 560. The illustratedaperture 572 is generally square or rectangular with aslot 573 defined along one side. As illustrated inFIG. 32B , theslot 573 receives the clip portion 562 of thetab 560 when thetab 560 is fully positioned within thereceptacle 570. In other words, a shoulder that is defined at approximately the clip portion 562 is captured within the receptacle while the clip portion 562 is positioned in theslot 573 of theaperture 572 with the finger hold 566 protruding from thereceptacle 570. - Thus, in the illustrated arrangement, the
tab 560 and thereceptacle 570 define a mechanical interlock. Thetab 560 can be positioned on either one of the frame assembly 502 and thesubframe assembly 504 while thereceptacle 570 is positioned on the other. Positioning thetab 560 on thesubframe assembly 504, however, allows easier removal of thesubframe assembly 504 from the frame assembly 502. - In use, the illustrated frame assembly 502 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: the
brow bar 510, thebridge 514 and thetemples 512. To provide the lenses, a user slips thesubframe assembly 504 behind the frame assembly 502 with thetab 560 being inserted into thereceptacle 570 of the frame assembly 502. In such a position, thebridge 524 of thesubframe assembly 504 is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and thelenses 520 that are positioned in thesubframe assembly 504 appear to be part of the frame assembly 502. Nonetheless, when the user desires, thelenses 520 and thesubframe assembly 504 can be removed from behind the frame assembly 502 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in the frame assembly 502 or thelenses 520 and thesubframe assembly 504 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly. - With reference now to
FIGS. 33-38 , another configuration of eyewear 600 arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustrated. As illustrated, this arrangement comprises aframe assembly 602 and asubframe assembly 604 connectable together in a manner similar to that shown inFIGS. 27-32B . The portions that are the same as the arrangements described above will not be described in this embodiment. - As illustrated, a
tab 660 and areceptacle 670 provide a mechanical interlock. Thetab 660 differs from thetab 560 described above in that thetab 660 comprises abulge 662 that is received within thereceptacle 670 to lock thetab 660 into the receptacle. As such, the receptacle can have a generally square orrectangular aperture 672 without the need for a slot such as that shown inFIG. 31 . Thebulge 662 can be pushed into thereceptacle 670 through theaperture 672. To remove thetab 660 from the receptacle, a finger hold 666 can be depressed which results in movement of the bulge into a position that allows thetab 660 to be withdrawn from thereceptacle 670. - With reference now to
FIGS. 39-48 , another arrangement ofeyewear 700 generally comprises aframe assembly 702 and a pair of lens subframe assemblies 704 (seeFIG. 44 ). Each of thelens subframe assemblies 704 preferably is mountable to theframe assembly 702 rearward of theframe assembly 702 such that at least a portion, and preferably the majority, of thelens subframe assembly 704 will be positioned between theframe assembly 702 and the eye of a wearer. - The
frame assembly 702 preferably comprises abrow bar 710, a pair of temples 712 (seeFIG. 40 ) and abridge 714. Thebrow bar 710 and thetemples 712 can be connected in any suitable manner. In the arrangement illustrated inFIG. 40 , corresponding hinges 716 connect thetemples 712 to thebrow bar 710. More particularly,projections 718 extend from thebrow bar 710 and thehinges 716 connect thebrow bar 710 to theprojections 718. Other suitable configurations can be used. - The
bridge 714 extends in a region generally corresponding to the region between the eyes of a user. In the illustrated arrangement, thebrow bar 710 is formed in two portions that are connected by thebridge 714. Other suitable configurations can be used including but not limited to a brow bar that forms at least a portion, or, in some embodiments, the entirety of, thebridge 714. The above described components of theframe assembly 702 may be omitted or integrated with other components in some embodiments. For instance, thetemples 712 can be omitted where other technology or other structure is used to secure the eyewear in position in the proximity of the user's eyes and thehinges 716 can be omitted in some configurations. - With reference now to
FIGS. 41A-42B , each of thelenses 720 is secured to theframe assembly 702 with a separatelens subframe assembly 704. Thus, the lens subframes do not comprise a bridge in this arrangement. Thelens subframe assembly 704 comprises a version of abrow bar 722 to which thelens 720 is secured. Thebrow bar 722 desirably has a smaller profile in front view than thebrow bar 710 of theframe assembly 702 such that thebrow bar 722 of thesubframe assembly 704 can be substantially concealed by thebrow bar 710 of theframe assembly 702, as shown by the hidden lines inFIG. 39 . - The
subframe assemblies 704 preferably are of the rimless or semirimless variety. Such an arrangement increases the number of alternative frame constructions that can be used as the frame assembly while allowing the presence of thesubframe assemblies 704 to be masked. In the one configuration, thesubframe assembly 704 comprises alower nylon cord 726 that secures thelenses 720 to thebrow bar 722 of thesubframe assembly 704. Other manners of securing thelenses 720 within or to thesubframe assembly 704 can be used. For instance, in some arrangements, thelenses 720 can be secured with clamps, mechanical fasteners, threaded fasteners, encircling frames, eyewires or the like. - As described above, the
subframe assembly 704 advantageously mounts to theframe assembly 702 in a manner that provides an appearance of integrated eyewear rather than an appearance of removably connected lenses and frames. As such, in the illustrated arrangement, thesubframe assembly 704 mounts behind theframe assembly 702 and the mounting structures are positioned behind theframe assembly 702 such that the mounting structures are generally obscured from the sight of one viewing theframe assembly 702 from the front. - With reference to
FIG. 39 , the illustratedsubframe assemblies 704 are secured to theframe assembly 702 at in two locations. In one arrangement, such as the illustrated arrangement, thesubframe assemblies 704 are secured at both lateral ends of thesubframe assemblies 704. In a presently preferred configuration, one end of thesubframe assembly 704 is secured by a mechanical interlock while the other end is secured by a magnetic interlock. - With reference now to
FIGS. 41A-42B , one form of the mechanical interlock between thesubframe assembly 704 and theframe assembly 702 will be described. As illustrated, the frame assembly comprises anoblong post 780. Theoblong post 780 extends rearward from theframe assembly 702 and preferably has a major diameter that extends generally vertically and a minor diameter that extends generally laterally. Other shapes and configurations of the post can be used and the post can be placed on thesubframe assembly 704 in some configurations. Moreover, in one preferred arrangement, an enlarged head 781 (shown in dashed lines inFIGS. 41A and 41B ) is provided on thepost 780 such that a major portion of thepost 780 has a smaller cross-section than the head. In some particularly advantageous embodiments, the post comprises a magnetic member. - The
subframe assembly 704 preferably comprises aslot 782 that is defined within anear 784. In some particularly advantageous embodiments, theear 784 comprises a magnetic member that can be magnetically secure to thepost 780. A portion of theslot 782 preferably is oblong such that thepost 780 can be inserted and the lens rotated into a locked position. As with the post, other configurations can be used and the slot can be disposed on theframe assembly 702 in some configurations. As shown inFIG. 41A , theslot 782 can slid onto thepost 780 and thesubframe assembly 704 can be rotated to lock thesubframe assembly 704 to theframe assembly 702, as shown inFIG. 41B . - With reference to
FIGS. 39, 40 and 48, lugs 734 can be an outer portion of the illustratedsubframe assembly 704 compriseslugs 734 that extend laterally outward from the brow bars 722. Thelugs 734 are sized and configured to abut uponbosses 736 defined on theframe assembly 702. Thebosses 736 can be integrally formed with theframe assembly 702 or can be separate components that are secured to theframe assembly 702. In the illustrated arrangement, thebosses 736 advantageously are positioned behind theprojections 718 such that thebosses 736 are generally concealed as are thelugs 734 when thelugs 734 abut thebosses 736. - In the illustrated arrangement, the
bosses 736 generally comprise magnetic members that are positioned in theprojections 718 and thebosses 736 comprise interconnecting components together with thelugs 734. More particularly, in the illustrated arrangement, theeyewear 700 comprises a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination and comprises a firstmagnetic member 742 and a secondmagnetic member 744. In some configurations, one of themagnetic members magnetic members post 780 and theear 784 can be interchanged in location with theboss 736 and thelug 734 in some applications. - With reference to
FIGS. 41A and 47 , apost 790 of thenose piece 792 can comprise a reducedportion 794. The reducedportion 794 can accommodate a portion of either thelens 720 or thesubframe assembly 704 such that the reducedportion 794 can serve to locate thelens 720 relative to theframe assembly 702 and provide another member that helps lock thesubframe assembly 704 in position. - In use, the illustrated
frame assembly 702 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: thebrow bar 710, thebridge 714 and thetemples 712. To provide the lenses, a user slips thesubframe assembly 704 behind theframe assembly 702 and slips thepost 780 into theslot 782 of theear 784. Thesubframe assembly 704 is then rotated about 90 degrees and thelug 734 is brought into engagement with theboss 736 such that thesubframe assembly 704 is supported in a generally locked position relative to theframe assembly 702. Theother lens 720 can be installed to theframe assembly 702 in the same manner. In such a position, thesubframe assembly 704 is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and thelenses 720 that are positioned in thesubframe assembly 704 appear to be part of theframe assembly 702. Nonetheless, when the user desires, thelenses 720 and thesubframe assemblies 704 can be removed from behind theframe assembly 702 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assemblies can be placed in theframe assembly 702 or thelenses 720 and thesubframe assemblies 704 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly. - With reference now to
FIGS. 49-52 , aneyewear assembly 800 is shown. Theeyewear assembly 800 features aframe assembly 802 to which asubframe assembly 804 can be mounted. Because of the similarity to the arrangements described above, many of the base components of theframe assembly 802 and thesubframe assembly 804 will not be described in further detail. Rather, reference may be had to the descriptions set forth above for such components. For instance, theframe assembly 802 is very similar to theframe assembly 702 described with reference toFIGS. 39-48 . - A primary difference between the prior embodiment and the embodiment of
FIGS. 49-50 is the use of asingle subframe assembly 804. Thesubframe assembly 804 comprises abridge 824 that connects a pair of brow bars 822. Thebridge 824 in the illustrated arrangement comprises a pair of slots 882 that can receive a corresponding pair of posts 870. The posts can be configured in any suitable manner, including the manners set forth in the embodiment above. The slots 882 and the posts 870 define a mechanical interlock between theframe assembly 802 and thesubframe assembly 804. - As with the arrangement described directly above, a magnetic interlock also is provided. Any suitable construction can be used and, in the illustrated arrangement, the magnetic interlock is the same as the arrangement in the embodiment described directly above. Accordingly, a pair of
lugs 834 is positioned on an outer portion of the illustratedsubframe assembly 804. Thelugs 834 are sized and configured to abut uponbosses 836 defined on theframe assembly 802. Thebosses 836 can be integrally formed with theframe assembly 802 or can be separate components that are secured to theframe assembly 802. In the illustrated arrangement, thebosses 836 advantageously are positioned behindprojections 818 such that thebosses 836 are generally concealed as are thelugs 834 when thelugs 834 abut thebosses 836. - In the illustrated arrangement, the
bosses 836 generally comprise magnetic members that are positioned in theprojections 818 and thebosses 836 comprise interconnecting components together with thelugs 834. More particularly, in the illustrated arrangement, theeyewear 800 comprises a magnetic interlock comprising at least one magnetic member. Even more particularly, the magnetic interlock is formed at each lug and boss combination and comprises a firstmagnetic member 842 and a secondmagnetic member 844. In some configurations, one of themagnetic members magnetic members posts 880 andslots 884 can be interchanged in location with theboss 836 and thelug 834 in some applications. - In use, the illustrated
frame assembly 802 generally defines the components associated with most eyewear: thebrow bar 810, thebridge 814 and thetemples 812. To provide thelenses 820, a user slips thesubframe assembly 804 behind theframe assembly 802 with theslots 884 being slid onto theposts 880 of the frame assembly 502. In such a position, thebridge 824 of thesubframe assembly 804 is generally concealed from the front of the eyewear and thelenses 820 that are positioned in thesubframe assembly 804 appear to be part of theframe assembly 802. Nonetheless, when the user desires, thelenses 820 and thesubframe assembly 804 can be removed from behind theframe assembly 802 and an alternative set of lenses and subframe assembly can be placed in theframe assembly 802 or thelenses 820 and thesubframe assembly 804 can be placed in an alternative frame assembly. - Although the present invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments, examples and variations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. For instance, the exterior shape and dimensions of the frame assemblies, subframe assemblies, mechanical interlocks and magnetic interlocks can be any suitable shape or configuration, including the use of curved or straight surfaces in the place of straight or curved surfaces. In addition, the connections preferably are made with the lens assembly resting on a surface of the frame assembly. In some embodiments, however, the lens assembly can be positioned such that the frame assembly rests on a portion of the lens assembly. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of any of the many embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Moreover, some variations that have been described with respect to one embodiment and not another embodiment can be used with such other embodiments. For instance, the subframe assembly can be supported in one, two or more locations on the frame assembly. Many variations have been described herein and cross-application is intended where physically possible. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
Claims (20)
1. An eyeglass assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe assembly, said frame assembly comprising a pair of temples, said frame assembly also comprising a front side and a back side, said back side of said frame assembly being closer to a wearer's face than said front side, said subframe assembly comprising at least one lens, said at least one subframe assembly comprising a front side and a back side, said back side of said subframe assembly being closer to said wearer's face than said front side of said subframe assembly, said subframe assembly being secured to said frame assembly at least in part by at least one pair of magnetic members such that said front side of said subframe assembly faces said back side of said frame assembly and said subframe assembly is at least partially positioned between said frame assembly and said wear's face, a first magnetic member of said at least one pair of magnetic members being a magnet that is secured to one of said frame assembly and said subframe assembly and a second magnetic member of said at least one pair of magnetic members being a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet and said second magnetic member being secured to said other of said frame assembly and said subframe assembly such that said first magnetic member and said second magnetic member are generally aligned when said subframe assembly is secured to said frame assembly.
2. The eyewear of claim 1 , wherein said subframe assembly comprises said first magnetic member.
3. The eyewear of claim 2 , wherein said first magnetic member is positioned generally towards said front side of said subframe assembly.
4. The eyewear of claim 3 , wherein said frame assembly comprises said second magnetic member.
5. The eyewear of claim 4 , wherein said second magnetic member is positioned generally toward said back side of said frame assembly.
6. An eyeglass assembly comprising a frame assembly and a subframe assembly,
said frame assembly comprising a front side and a back side, said back side being closer to a face of a wearer than said front side, said frame assembly further comprising a first brow bar, a second brow bar and a bridge connecting said first brow bar to said second brow bar, said bridge having a first vertical dimension, a first projection extending from said first brow bar and a second projection extending from said second brow bar, a first temple connected to said first projection and a second temple connected to said second projection;
said subframe assembly comprising a front side and a back side, said back side being closer to said face of a wearer than said front side, said subframe assembly further comprising a brow bar, a lens being secured to said brow bar;
said subframe assembly being secured to said frame assembly such that said front side of said subframe assembly faces said back side of said frame assembly and such that said front side of said subframe assembly generally is positioned rearward of said front side of said frame assembly.
7. The eyewear of claim 6 , wherein said front side of said subframe assembly generally is positioned rearward of said rear side of said frame assembly.
8. The eyewear of claim 6 , wherein said subframe assembly other than said lens, when secured to said frame assembly, is sized and positioned to be obscured from view when said eyewear is viewed from said front.
9. The eyewear of claim 6 , wherein said frame assembly does not comprise any lenses.
10. The eyewear of claim 6 further comprising a second subframe assembly, said second subframe assembly comprising a front side and a back side, said back side being closer to the face of the wearer than said front side, said second subframe assembly further comprising a brow bar, a lens being secured to said brow bar, said second subframe assembly also being secured to said frame assembly such that said front side of said second subframe assembly faces said back side of said frame assembly and such that said front side of said second subframe assembly generally is positioned rearward of said front side of said frame assembly, said first and second subframe assemblies being positioned side-by-side when secured to said frame assembly.
11. The eyewear of claim 6 , wherein said subframe assembly does not comprise any temples.
12. The eyewear of claim 6 , wherein said subframe assembly does not comprise any nose pads.
13. The eyewear of claim 6 , wherein said frame assembly comprises a boss that extends rearward and said subframe assembly comprises a lug that is connected to said brow bar, said lug being positioned on said boss when said subframe assembly is secured to said frame assembly.
14. The eyewear of claim 13 , wherein said lug comprises a first magnetic member and said boss comprises a second magnetic member, said first and second magnetic members being magnetically secured when said subframe assembly is secured to said frame assembly.
15. The eyewear of claim 14 , wherein said first magnetic member is slightly recessed within said lug and said second magnetic member extends into said lug when said subframe assembly is secured to said frame assembly such that said first and second magnetic members also define a mechanical interlock.
16. The eyewear of claim 6 further comprising a second brow bar, a second lens being secured to said second brow bar and said second brow bar being connected to said first brow bar by a bridge, said bridge being generally obscured from frontal view by said bridge of said frame assembly when said subframe assembly is secured to said frame assembly.
17. The eyewear of claim 16 further comprising a member being connected to said bridge of said frame assembly, said member defining a valley together with said bridge and said bridge of said subframe assembly being received within said valley.
18. A method of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system, the eyewear system comprising a first subframe assembly that comprises a first lens, a second subframe assembly that comprises a second lens, the second lens not being matched to the first lens, and a frame assembly that will accommodate individually both the first subframe assembly and the second subframe assembly, the method comprising releasing and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the frame assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the frame assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the frame assembly.
19. A method of exchanging lenses in an eyewear system, the eyewear system comprising a first subframe assembly that comprises a first lens and a second lens, a second subframe assembly that comprises a different first lens and a different second lens, and a frame assembly that will accommodate individually both the first subframe assembly and the second subframe assembly, the method comprising releasing and removing the first subframe assembly from behind the frame assembly, placing the second subframe assembly behind the frame assembly and securing the second subframe assembly to the frame assembly.
20. A method of exchanging frames in an eyewear system, the eyewear system comprising a first frame assembly that does not comprise a lens, a second frame assembly that does not comprise a lens, and a subframe assembly that comprises a lens, the subframe assembly sized and configured to be accommodated within the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly, the method comprising releasing and removing the subframe assembly from behind the first frame assembly, placing the subframe assembly behind the second frame assembly and securing the subframe assembly to the second frame assembly.
Priority Applications (3)
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US11/018,423 US7370961B2 (en) | 2003-10-02 | 2004-12-21 | Interchangeable eyewear assembly |
US11/777,742 US20080013039A1 (en) | 2003-10-02 | 2007-07-13 | Interchangeable eyewear assembly |
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US50867403P | 2003-10-02 | 2003-10-02 | |
US10/957,213 US20050105041A1 (en) | 2003-10-02 | 2004-10-01 | Interchangeable eyewear assembly |
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US11/777,742 Continuation US20080013039A1 (en) | 2003-10-02 | 2007-07-13 | Interchangeable eyewear assembly |
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US12/100,073 Expired - Fee Related US7951735B2 (en) | 2003-10-02 | 2008-04-09 | Glass materials for optical gain media and infrared optics comprising rare earth oxide glass compositions |
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US12/100,073 Expired - Fee Related US7951735B2 (en) | 2003-10-02 | 2008-04-09 | Glass materials for optical gain media and infrared optics comprising rare earth oxide glass compositions |
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US20110202581A1 (en) * | 2000-12-07 | 2011-08-18 | Kazar Michael L | Method and system for responding to file system requests |
US20110181831A1 (en) * | 2006-10-10 | 2011-07-28 | Lane Research, Llc | Detachable lens for variable focus spectacles |
US8976456B2 (en) * | 2006-10-10 | 2015-03-10 | Stephen Kurtin | Detachable lens for variable focus spectacles |
US10335317B2 (en) | 2012-08-31 | 2019-07-02 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyewear having multiple ventilation states |
US9241833B2 (en) | 2012-08-31 | 2016-01-26 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyewear having multiple ventilation states |
US9463117B2 (en) | 2012-08-31 | 2016-10-11 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyewear having multiple ventilation states |
US9717631B2 (en) | 2012-08-31 | 2017-08-01 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyewear having multiple ventilation states |
US9192520B2 (en) | 2012-08-31 | 2015-11-24 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyewear having multiple ventilation states |
US10925772B2 (en) | 2013-03-07 | 2021-02-23 | Oakley, Inc. | Regeneratable anti-fogging element for goggle |
US20180275755A1 (en) * | 2013-10-14 | 2018-09-27 | Suricog | Method of interaction by gaze and associated device |
US10274748B2 (en) | 2014-03-27 | 2019-04-30 | Oakley, Inc. | Mounting mechanism for eyewear |
US10687981B2 (en) | 2015-10-09 | 2020-06-23 | Oakley, Inc. | Headworn supports with passive venting and removable lens |
US9709817B2 (en) | 2015-12-07 | 2017-07-18 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyewear retention devices and methods |
US10156734B2 (en) | 2015-12-08 | 2018-12-18 | Oakley, Inc. | Eyewear traction devices and methods |
US9983415B2 (en) * | 2016-02-09 | 2018-05-29 | Klix Frames (Usa) Llc | Eyeglass frame system where lenses can move from one frame to another |
US10359642B2 (en) | 2016-04-22 | 2019-07-23 | Oakley, Inc. | Mounting mechanism for eyewear |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20090227440A1 (en) | 2009-09-10 |
CA2483484A1 (en) | 2005-04-02 |
US7951735B2 (en) | 2011-05-31 |
US20050075233A1 (en) | 2005-04-07 |
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Legal Events
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