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lbrenap1

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[ "Rickon" ]

[]

[ { "claim_number": "CLM-00001", "preamble": "1. A head and face protection apparatus comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "a concave shell with a crown portion, forehead portion, chin portion, two jaw portions and two side portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an elongated view opening between said forehead portion and said chin portion;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said forehead portion connected to said chin portion by means of said side portions and said jaw portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said side portions terminating vertically, toward the rear, prior to, and rather than, extending over and covering an associated wearer's ears;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said jaw portion following contour of said associated wearer's jaw until connection with said side portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said jaw portion, at said connection with said side portions, and in conjunction with said side portions, flaring outward, in a direction away from said associated wearer's head, such that the jaw portion and side portions form a concave shape;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said crown portion extending over the front half of said associated wearer's head; and,", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said crown portion terminating intermediate to the front half and back half of said associated wearer's head.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00002", "preamble": "2. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 1 further comprising;", "components": [ { "component": "a forehead interior surface of said forehead portion with padding therein;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a chin interior surface of said chin portion with padding therein; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an exterior rear surface with a harness device thereon.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00003", "preamble": "3. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 2 wherein said harness device includes a strap.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00004", "preamble": "4. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 1 wherein said shell is adapted to an associated catcher's skull helmet.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00005", "preamble": "5. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 1 wherein said shell is adapted to cover and protect said associated wearer's forehead, jaw, throat, cheeks, mouth, and ears.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00006", "preamble": "6. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 1 wherein said shell is adapted to receive a cage device; said cage device is operatively connected to said shell and spaced a distance of 1 to 3 inches from associated wearer's nose.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00007", "preamble": "7. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 6 wherein said cage device substantially covers said elongated view opening of said shell.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00008", "preamble": "8. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 1 wherein said shell is made of plastic.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00009", "preamble": "9. A head and face protection apparatus comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "a concave shell with a crown portion, forehead portion, chin portion, two jaw portions and two side portions, wherein said shell is adapted to receive a cage device, said cage device is operatively connected to said shell and spaced a distance of 1 to 3 inches from associated wearer's nose, wherein said cage device substantially covers said elongated view opening of said shell;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an elongated view opening between said forehead portion and said chin portion;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said forehead portion connected to said chin portion by means of said side portions and said jaw portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said side portions terminating vertically, toward the rear, prior to, and rather than, extending over and covering an associated wearer's ears;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said jaw portion following contour of said associated wearer's jaw until connection with said side portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said jaw portion, at said connection with said side portions, and in conjunction with said side portions, flaring outward, in a direction away from said associated wearer's head;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said crown portion extending over the front half of said associated wearer's head; and,", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said crown portion terminating intermediate to the front half and back half of said associated wearer's head, wherein said cage device includes a lower portion and two ear portions, said lower portion extending downward over associated wearer's throat area, and said ear portions extending outward away from said associated wearer's face.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00010", "preamble": "10. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 9 further comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "a forehead interior surface of said forehead portion with padding therein;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a chin interior surface of said chin portion with padding therein; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an exterior rear surface with a harness device thereon;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said harness device includes a strap;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said shell is adapted to an associated catcher's skull helmet;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said shell is adapted to cover and protect said associated wearer's forehead, jaw, cheeks, mouth, and ears.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00011", "preamble": "11. A head and face protection apparatus comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "a concave shell, the concave shell comprising:", "subcomponents": [ "a forehead portion;", "a chin portion;", "an elongated view opening between said forehead portion and said chin portion, wherein said elongated view opening extends behind an associated wearer's eyes;" ] }, { "component": "a forehead portion;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a chin portion;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an elongated view opening between said forehead portion and said chin portion, wherein said elongated view opening extends behind an associated wearer's eyes;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a cage operatively connected to said shell;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a flexible harness device operatively connected to said shell;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said cage, said shell, and said harness device adapted for use with an associated skull helmet;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a crown portion, two jaw portions, and two side portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said forehead portion connected to said chin portion by means of said side portions and said jaw portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said side portions terminating vertically, toward the rear, prior to, and rather than, extending over and covering an associated wearer's ears;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said jaw portion following contour of said associated wearer's jaw until connection with said side portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said jaw portion, at said connection with said side portions, and in conjunction with said side portions, flaring outward, in a direction away from said associated wearer's head, such that the jaw portion and side portions form a concave shape;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said crown portion extending over the front half of said associated wearer's head; and,", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said crown portion terminating intermediate to the front half and back half of said associated wearer's head.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00012", "preamble": "12. The head and face protection apparatus of claim 11 further comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "a forehead interior surface of said forehead portion with padding therein;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a chin interior surface of said chin portion with padding therein; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an exterior rear surface with a harness device thereon;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said harness device includes a strap;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said shell is adapted to an associated catcher's skull helmet;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said shell is adapted to cover and protect said associated wearer's forehead, jaw, cheeks, mouth, and ears.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00013", "preamble": "13. A method of manufacturing a head and face protection apparatus, said method comprising the steps of:", "components": [ { "component": "providing a concave shell with a crown portion, forehead portion, chin portion, two jaw portions, and two side portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "providing an elongated view opening between said forehead portion and said jaw portion;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "connecting said forehead portion to said chin portion via said side portions and said jaw portions;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "terminating said side portions vertically, toward the rear, prior to, the position where said side portions would extend over and cover an associated wearer's ears;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "flaring said jaw portion and said side portions in an outward direction away from said associated wearer's face, such that the jaw portion and side portions form a concave shape;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "terminating said crown portion intermediate to front half and back half of said associated wearer's head.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00014", "preamble": "14. The method of claim 13 further comprising the steps of:", "components": [ { "component": "covering interior forehead surface of said forehead portion with padding; and,", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "covering interior chin surface of said chin portion with padding.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00015", "preamble": "15. The method of claim 13 further comprising the steps of:", "components": [ { "component": "providing a protective cage; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "connecting said cage to said shell.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00016", "preamble": "16. The method of claim 13 further comprising the steps of:", "components": [ { "component": "providing a harness device and an associated catcher's skull helmet.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00017", "preamble": "17. The method of claim 16 further comprising the steps of:", "components": [ { "component": "strapping said shell to said associated catcher's skull helmet with said harness device.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00018", "preamble": "18. The method of claim 17 further comprising the steps of:", "components": [ { "component": "covering interior forehead surface of said forehead portion with padding;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "covering interior chin surface of said chin portion with padding;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "providing a protective cage;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "connecting said cage to said shell.", "subcomponents": [] } ] } ]

[ "A. Field of Invention", "This invention pertains to the art of protective head devices for use by athletes. The invention relates more specifically to a facemask used by baseball catchers.", "B. Description of the Related Art", "It is known in the art that there have been only two general types of catcher's masks used in both amateur and professional baseball. The conventional mask is the “official” catcher's mask. Although the mask is adequate, the wearer's visibility while wearing the “official” catcher's mask is limited. Also, the jaw protection offered is poor and the impact of a foul ball is harsh. While players continue to use the “official” catcher's mask, there are a number of improvements that can be made to the mask.", "Also known in the art is the “hockey-style” catcher's mask. While the “hockey-style” mask provides what is lacking in the “official” catcher's mask, the hockey-style catcher's mask is heavier, much larger, uncomfortable to wear, difficult to flip on and off during play, provides no rear neck protection, and looks like a hockey mask, not a baseball catcher's mask. The way a catcher's mask looks is important since baseball is a game filled with tradition. Anything that seems to take away from that tradition is frowned upon by players and fans alike. In addition, the “hockey-style” mask makes the head area of the wearer uncomfortably hot and when the mask is removed, the wearer is bare-headed and not provided any head protection. Therefore, the “hockey-style” catcher's mask is undesirable for the game of baseball, and has a number of needed improvements.", "Also known in the art are “skull helmets” of U.S. Pat. No. 2,698,434, to Davia. This patent discloses the use of baseball caps, or “skull helmets”, that are used to protect the player's head. The most used skull helmet is made by American Baseball Cap. This cap or helmet works well for its intended purpose, but it does not provide any face protection.", "The present invention achieves the combined advantages of the traditional “official” catcher's mask and the “hockey-style” catcher's mask without the disadvantages.", "The present invention provides methods and apparatuses for a baseball catcher's mask. This invention obviates the foregoing difficulties and others while providing better and more advantageous overall results.", "According to one aspect of the present invention, a new and improved catcher's mask is provided which is a cage and shell combination with a strap/harness device on the back. This new mask is designed to be worn with a separate catcher's “skull helmet,” and is known as “G-3.”", "According to another aspect of the present invention, a head protection device for use by athletes comprises a concave shell with a crown portion, forehead portion, chin portion, two jaw portions, two side portions and an elongated view opening between the forehead and the chin portions.", "According to another aspect of the invention, a forehead portion is connected to a chin portion by two side portions and two jaw portions.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the two side portions end vertically, toward the rear of the mask, prior to, and rather than, extending over and covering the wearer's ears.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the jaw portions follow the contour of the wearer's jaw until the two jaw portions connect with the two side portions. At this connection point, the side portions, in conjunction with the jaw portions, flare outward, away from the wearer's head.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the crown portion extends over the front half of the wearer's head and ends before the midpoint of the front half and back half of the wearer's head.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the head protection device comprises a forehead interior surface having padding therein, a chin interior surface having padding therein, and an exterior rear harness device thereon.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the harness device comprises a strap connected at strategic points on the head protection device.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the head protection device includes a shell to be used with a separate catcher's skull helmet.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the head apparatus device further comprises a shell that covers and protects the wearer's forehead, jaw, chin, cheeks, mouth, and ears.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the head apparatus device is adapted to receive a cage.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the cage substantially covers an elongated view opening of the shell.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the cage includes a lower portion extending downward over the wearer's throat area, and two ear portions that extend outward away from the wearer's face.", "According to another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for assembling a head protection device for use by athletes where the head protection device comprises a concave shell having a crown portion, forehead portion, chin portion, two jaw portions, and two side portions. The method further comprises the steps of providing an elongated view opening between a forehead portion and a chin portion and connecting a forehead portion to a chin portion by using two side portions and two jaw portions.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the method further comprising the step of covering an interior forehead surface and interior chin surface with padding.", "According to yet another aspect of the invention, the method further comprising the steps of providing a protective cage and connecting the cage to the shell.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the method further comprising the steps of providing a harness device and a separate skull helmet.", "According to yet another aspect of the invention, the method further comprising the steps of ending the side portions vertically, prior to the position where the side portions would cover the wearer's ears.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the method comprising the step of flaring a jaw portion and the side portions together in a direction away from the wearer's face.", "According to another aspect of the invention, the method also comprising the step of ending a crown portion before the halfway point between the front half and back half of the wearer's head.", "According to still another aspect of the invention, the method further comprising the steps of attaching a separate catcher's skull helmet to the shell by means of a harness device.", "According to another aspect of the invention, where the head protection device is a catcher's mask.", "One advantage of this invention is the full protection of the face, throat, back of the neck, jaw, ears, and head. The shell extends down to protect the jaw area. Also, the cage extends downward past the shell portion, making this portion of the cage an extended throat guard, providing protection to the front of the throat area. The mask also utilizes a jaw area that flares out, rather than following the contour of the jaw, which better protects the jaw area. The separate catcher's skull helmet, worn backwards, protects the back area of the neck. The mask absorbs shock from impact rather than the face of the wearer because of the design of the cage, combined with a shell.", "Still another advantage of this invention is that the mask, worn with a separate skull helmet, reduces shock to the face since there are three masses, namely, the cage, the shell, and the skull helmet, that absorb the shock which protects the player/wearer.", "Another advantage is that the wide ear protectors of the cage keep balls in front of the player, and help block balls that were thrown in the dirt.", "Another advantage is that the shell, combined with the cage, results in less foul ball shock to the face by using a cage, shell, and skull helmet combination.", "Another advantage of this invention is that the mask provides the capability of providing a clear unobstructed view for the wearer/player. The viewing opening in the shell of the new mask is elongated. The new design of the mask brings the cage portion of the mask close to the face in a safe manner. This gives excellent side to side, up and down, and straight ahead vision to the player/wearer.", "Still another advantage is the comfort while wearing the mask. The mask is cool to the face and head, and lightweight. The G-3 mask hangs closer to center of the head, making it feel lighter than it actually is and lighter than the traditional catcher's mask or the hockey-style catcher's mask.", "Another advantage of the present invention is that the mask sits comfortably and easily on the top of the head when not in use.", "Yet another advantage is the ease with which the wearer can flip the mask on and off during play through use of a strap/harness device on the back of the mask.", "Yet another advantage is that the use of the mask with a separate skull helmet means the player/wearer is not “bare headed” when the mask is removed.", "Still another advantage is that this mask looks similar to the traditional baseball mask. Most, if not all, players of the game of baseball desire to wear a mask that looks like a familiar and common baseball catcher's mask. Baseball is a game filled with tradition and the use of a baseball catcher's mask that looks like a baseball catcher's mask is highly desired.", "Another advantage is that the mask is durable and the wearer/player may personalize the shell of the facemask with logos and graphics of any possible color or style.", "Yet another advantage is that it is compact, and easy to pack in a bag. The “hockey-style” facemask is one unit that covers the entire head of the wearer. The present invention only covers the front portion of the head, making it, in effect, a “half” shell. This means it takes up less room when stored or placed in a bag for carrying.", "Still other benefits and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains upon a reading and understanding of the following detailed specification.", "The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, at least one embodiment of which will be described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and wherein:", "FIG. 1 is a front view of the shell;", "FIG. 2 is a rear view of the shell with padding;", "FIG. 3 is a side view of the shell;", "FIG. 4 is a side view of the cage attached to the shell;", "FIG. 5 is a front view of the cage attached to the shell;", "FIG. 6a is a side view of the facemask attached to the skull helmet;", "FIG. 6b is a side view of the facemask attached to the skull helmet as worn by player;", "FIG. 7 is a side view of a second embodiment of the facemask attached to a skull helmet;", "FIG. 8 is a side view of the shell with cage and attachment means;", "FIG. 9a is a front view of the cage;", "FIG. 9b is a side view of the cage; and,", "FIG. 10 is a side view of the separate catcher's skull helmet.", "Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating at least one embodiment of the invention only and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIG. 1 shows a front view of a shell shown generally at 2, as if looking at the player while the player is wearing a facemask 40, as shown in FIG. 4. The shell 2 has a forehead portion 4, two jaw portions 28, a chin portion 6, and two vertical side portions 8. The two side portions 8 connect the forehead portion 4 to the jaw portion 28 and to the chin portion 6. The side portions 8 provide protection for the sides of the face and the ear area.", "Between the chin portion 6 and the forehead portion 4 there is an elongated view opening area 12. This opening provides a view opening for the player to look through. The elongated design of the view opening area 12 provides the wearer with greater visibility, no constriction to breathing through the nose, and enough room for the mouth, so the wearer can talk and others can hear and understand what the wearer is saying. In this embodiment, the height of the front view opening 12 of the shell 2 is approximately 4 inches, plus or minus 1.5 inches, and, the width of the front view opening 12 of the shell 2 is approximately 7 inches, plus or minus 1.5 inches. In another embodiment, the width of the front view opening 12 of the shell 2 is approximately 7.25 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, and, the height of the front view opening 12 of the shell 2 is approximately 4.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches.", "Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the shell 2 is designed so a crown portion 10, sits comfortably on the separate catcher's skull helmet, worn by the player/wearer. A view of the separate catcher's skull helmet is shown in FIG. 10. In this embodiment, the distance between the shell 2 and the player/wearer's forehead is approximately 2 inches, plus or minus 1.25 inches, the width of the shell 2 is approximately 9 inches, plus or minus 2 inches, the height of the shell 2 is approximately 11 inches, plus or minus 2 inches, and, the depth of the shell 2 is approximately 5 inches, plus or minus 2 inches. In another embodiment, the distance between the shell 2 and the player/wearer's forehead is approximately 1.75 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, the width of the shell 2 is approximately 9.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, the height of the shell 2 is approximately 10.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, and, the depth of the shell 2 is approximately 4.75 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches. The shell 2 may be made out of plastic, fiberglass, Kevlar®, or any other type of material chosen with sound engineering judgment.", "Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the jaw portion 28 follows the contour of the wearer's jaw until the jaw portion 28 and the side portions 8 connect at connection points 14. At the connection points 14, the jaw portion 28, in conjunction with the side portions 8, flares outward, away from the wearer's head or face area. This flaring helps to protect the player/wearer's jaw as it tends to block balls away from the player/wearer's face area. In this embodiment, the flared portion follows an approximate 45° angle, plus or minus 10°. However, any angle, chosen with sound engineering judgment, may be used to achieve a flared portion angled away from the wearer's head or face area.", "Referring now to FIG. 2, a rear view of the shell 2, as seen from the wearer's point of view is shown. Attached on the inside of the chin portion 6 of the shell 2 is protective chin padding 13. The chin padding 13 cushions the wearer's jaw or chin. The chin padding 13 may be any firm, soft substance chosen with sound engineering judgment and may be covered or not covered. In this embodiment, the thickness of chin padding 13 is approximately 1 inch, plus or minus 0.5 inches, the height of the chin padding 13 is approximately 3 inches, plus or minus 1 inch, and, the width of the chin padding 13, while the padding is in the designated shell 2 area, is approximately 5 inches, plus or minus 1.5 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness of the chin padding 13 is approximately 1.25 inches, plus or minus 0.25 inches, the height of the chin padding 13 is approximately 3.25 inches, plus or minus 0.25 inches, and, the width of the chin padding 13, while the padding is in the designated shell 2 area, is approximately 4.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches.", "With continuing reference to FIG. 2, there is also forehead padding 32 attached on the inside of the forehead portion 4 of the shell 2. The forehead padding 32 is for protection of the wearer/player's forehead and to provide friction between the shell 2 and the separate catcher's skull helmet 20, as shown in FIG. 6a. The forehead padding 32 may be any soft, firm substance chosen with sound engineering judgment and may be either covered or uncovered. In this embodiment, the thickness of the forehead padding 32 is approximately 1 inch, plus or minus 0.75 inches, the height of the forehead padding 32 is approximately 5 inches, plus or minus 1.5 inches, and, the width of the forehead padding 32, while the padding is in the designated shell 2 area, is approximately 7 inches, plus or minus 1.5 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness of the forehead padding 32 is approximately 0.75 inches, plus or minus 0.25 inches, the height of the forehead padding 32 is approximately 4.75 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, and, the width of the forehead padding 32, while the padding is in the designated shell 2 area, is approximately 7.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches.", "Referring now to FIG. 3, a side view of the shell 2 is shown. The side portions 8 of the shell 2 terminate or end before the shell 2 covers the wearer's ears. The crown portion 10 also stops just before the midpoint of the player/wearer's head. This results in a “half” shell that covers the player/wearer's face and front half of the wearer's skull area. A half shell concept is used so that the player/wearer may also wear a separate skull helmet 20, as shown in FIG. 6a. The skull helmet 20 may be worn backwards on the player/wearer's head. The use of a separate skull helmet 20 is desirable as the helmet brim 44 provides protection for the back of the neck. Other benefits of a “half” shell are that the mask 40 is compact and easy to store or carry in a bag. The player/wearer, before taking off the mask 40, may push the mask 40 up onto the skull helmet 20 and take off the combination in this compact form or just take off the mask 40 and leave on the helmet 20. This helps reduce the player/wearer's burden while moving the catcher's mask 40, and other equipment, to the various playing fields. It also makes storage of the catcher's mask 40 in lockers between games easier since some lockers may be too small to hold the hockey-style “full” helmet.", "With reference to FIGS. 9a and 9b a front and side view of one embodiment of the cage is shown. Although the Figures show one embodiment of the cage configuration, design or pattern, it is understood that the present invention will work equally well with other patterns, designs or cage configurations, chosen with sound engineering judgment.", "Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, a side and a front view of a cage 16 attached to the shell 2 is shown. The cage 16 may be attached to the shell 2 using a connection means 24 that is preferably screws and clamps, of which a representative few are shown. Although placement of the connection means 24 is shown, it is understood that the location of the connection means 24 may be selectively placed in various locations on the mask 40. It is also understood that other means of securing the cage 16 to the shell 2 may be used as determined with sound engineering judgment. In this embodiment, the cage 16 is made out of steel. However, titanium, metal, alloy, aluminum, or any other type of material may be chosen with sound engineering judgment.", "With continued reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the lower portion of the cage 16 extends downward past the chin portion 6, shown in FIG. 6b. This provides the player/wearer with a throat protector 34. This throat protector 34 may shield the player/wearer from a foul ball or wild pitch. The sides of the cage 16 extend outward in a direction away from the player/wearer's face making wide ear protectors 36. The extended ear protectors 36 keep balls in front of the player/wearer and help block balls that were thrown in the dirt. The extended ear protectors 36 and the throat protector 34 aid in safety and performance of the mask 40.", "Continuing with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the cage 16 covers the elongated view opening 12 of the shell 2. The cage 16 protects the player/wearer's eyes, nose, and mouth from contact with the ball. The ball may hit the cage 16 rather than directly hitting the player/wearer. Thus, the shell 2, combined with the cage 16, results in less foul ball shock to the face. The mask 40 absorbs the shock from impact, saving injury to the player/wearer. Also, the design of the mask 40 brings the cage 16 close to the wearer's face in a safe manner. The close proximity of the cage 16 gives excellent side to side, up and down, and straight-ahead vision to the player/wearer. In this embodiment, the distance from the cage 16 of the mask 40 to the nose of the wearer is approximately 2 inches, plus or minus 1 inch, the width of the cage 16 is approximately 11 inches, plus or minus 2 inches, the height of the cage 16 is approximately 8 inches, plus or minus 2 inches, and, the depth of the cage 16 is approximately 5 inches, plus or minus 1.5 inches. In another embodiment, the distance from the cage 16 of the mask 40 to the nose of the wearer is approximately 1.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, the width of the cage 16 is approximately 11.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, the height of the cage 16 is approximately 8.5 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, and, the depth of the cage 16 is approximately 4.75 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches.", "Referring now to FIG. 6a, a side view of the facemask 40 attached or strapped to the skull helmet 20 is shown. The facemask 40, which consists of the shell 2 and cage 16 combination, is attached to the separate skull helmet 20 with an attachment device 22, that is preferably a strap or harness, on the back of the mask 40. The attachment device 22 may be made out of nylon and an elastic substance. However, any type of fabric, material, or any other type of device may be chosen with sound engineering judgment.", "The attachment device 22 is operatively connected to the mask 40 at strategic points, chosen with sound engineering judgment. Another embodiment is shown in FIG. 8, a side view of the shell 2 and cage 16 combination and an attachment device 22 without the separate skull helmet.", "With reference now to FIGS. 6a and 6b, the shell 2 is designed to fit snuggly around the separate catcher's skull helmet 20. This brings the mask 40 closer to the center of the head making the mask 40 feel lighter to the player/wearer than it actually is. This design also brings the cage 16 safely closer to the wearer's face, aiding in unobstructed vision. The separate catcher's skull helmet 20 also fits comfortably on the head. The forehead padding 32 may create friction, and better bonding, between the separate catcher's skull helmet 20 and the shell portion 2 of the mask 40. The lightweight characteristic of the mask 40 also makes it comfortable to the player/wearer. In this embodiment, the weight of the entire mask 40 is approximately 16 ounces, plus or minus 6 ounces, the height of the entire mask 40 is approximately 12 inches, plus or minus 2.5 inches, and, the depth of the entire mask 40 is approximately 6 inches, plus or minus 2 inches. In another embodiment, the weight of the entire mask 40 is approximately 15 ounces, plus or minus 1 ounce, the height of the entire mask 40 is approximately 12 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches, and, the depth of the entire mask 40 is approximately 5.25 inches, plus or minus 0.5 inches.", "With continued reference to FIG. 6a, the game of baseball is a tradition filled game. Anything that distracts or takes away from this tradition is “frowned” upon. The new design of the catcher's mask 40 keeps the “look” of a baseball mask while providing the desires and needs of the player/wearer. The new design also allows the player/wearer to place logos and graphics, as desired, on the shell 2 portion of the mask 40. This enables the player/wearer to personalize their mask, making it unique.", "Referring now to FIG. 7, a side view of a second embodiment of the facemask attached to a skull helmet showing the present invention adapted for a youth version mask 50. It is known in the art that youth baseball rules require the separate catcher's skull helmet 54 to cover the ears 58 and to be connected to the mask 50 with a connection means 52, preferably snaps or buckles, to make it one unit. The second embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIG. 7, shows the facemask 50 adapted for the youth and little league rules. This second embodiment adjusts the design of the harness 56 by adding connection means 52 at strategic locations on the mask. The second embodiment is also adapted for the smaller size of the product to allow the appropriate fit for youths to wear.", "With continuing reference to FIGS. 6a and 6b, the use of the attachment device 22 makes the newly designed facemask 40 easy to flip on and off during play. The player/wearer may grab the bottom portion of the mask 40 and while the player/wearer extends the mask 40 out and up, the elastic attachment device 22 makes for a quick and easy “off flip.” This enables the player/wearer to keep the catcher's mask 40 on during the game or to quickly flip it off during the game. An example of this is when there is a pop-up foul ball or when the catcher has to field a bunt or wild pitch. The ability to flip up the facemask 40 onto the skull helmet 20 aids in making the unit compact for storage or for travel necessities. The player/wearer may also just rest the mask 40 on top of the head when the mask 40 is not in use during time outs.", "At least one embodiment has been described, hereinabove. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods may incorporate changes and modifications without departing from the general scope of this invention. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations in so far as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof." ]

[ "571437", "861170", "881957", "1488812", "2020248", "2502377", "2627602", "2698434", "3220014", "3373443", "3729745", "3732574", "4736466", "5093936", "5148550", "5206955", "5267353", "5394564", "5737770", "5815848", "5953761", "6189156", "D448528", "6292954", "2003055829" ]

[ { "classification_level": "A", "section": "A", "classification_class": "42", "subclass": "B", "main_group": "1", "subgroup": "00" } ]

[ "Foote", "Schiff" ]

[ "Foote-Mats, Inc." ]

[ { "claim_number": "CLM-00001", "preamble": "1. A protective helmet comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell having an upper dome with a lower edge and having a separate lower rim with an upper surface that mates against the lower edge, the rim being attached to the upper dome, wherein the rim includes cavity-forming marginal material on each side defining a pair of cavities and further defining a downwardly-open access opening adapted to receive and support an upwardly-extending leg of a faceguard.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00002", "preamble": "2. The helmet defined in claim 1 , including a securement securing the rim to the upper dome, the securement including one of mechanical fasteners, latches, adhesive bonding material, melted bonding material, and heat-staked material.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00003", "preamble": "3. The helmet defined in claim 2 , wherein the securement includes a mechanical fastener.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00004", "preamble": "4. The helmet defined in claim 3 , wherein the mechanical fastener includes a screw.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00005", "preamble": "5. The helmet defined in claim 4 , wherein the dome includes an apertured boss aligned with an aperture in the rim for receiving the screw.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00006", "preamble": "6. The helmet defined in claim 1 , wherein the dome includes air-flow apertures formed therein to provide for air flow, the apertures being formed in the dome above the rim.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00007", "preamble": "7. The helmet defined in claim 1 , including a faceguard having upwardly-extending legs shaped to matably fit into the access opening and be supported in the pair of cavities.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00008", "preamble": "8. The helmet defined in claim 1 , wherein the rim includes an outer wall that lies generally flush with an outer surface of the dome, and further includes an inner wall spaced inwardly from the outer wall, and still further includes a lower wall connecting the inner and outer walls to define a space therebetween.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00009", "preamble": "9. The helmet defined in claim 1 , wherein the rim includes a bill extending forwardly from the rim and integrally formed with the rim.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00010", "preamble": "10. The helmet defined in claim 1 , including a tape extending along a joint line formed at an interface of the dome and rim, the tape covering the joint line and assisting in bonding the dome and rim together.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00011", "preamble": "11. The helmet defined in claim 1 , wherein the rim is a one-piece molding.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00012", "preamble": "12. The helmet defined in claim 1 , wherein the rim is an injection-molded component formed with top and bottom surfaces not having undercuts, such that the rim can be made from a die that characteristically does not have slides or pulls or moving die components required to form undercuts.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00013", "preamble": "13. The helmet defined in claim 1 , including an energy absorber positioned within the dome and an attachment strap attached to the shell and that is adapted to releasably retain the shell to a wearer's head.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00014", "preamble": "14. The helmet defined in claim 1 , wherein one of the rim and dome include an integrally formed bill.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00015", "preamble": "15. The helmet defined in claim 1 , including a bill with a rear edge attached to one of the rim and dome.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00016", "preamble": "16. A protective helmet comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell having an upper dome with a lower edge and having a separate lower rim with an upper surface that mates against the lower edge, the rim being attached to the upper dome;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "including an energy absorber positioned within the dome and an attachment strap attached to the shell and that is adapted to releasably retain the shell to a wearer's head; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an anchor attached to the shell, and wherein the attachment strap includes a rear strap section that extends slidably around the anchor and back onto itself, the rear strap section including mating patches of hook-and-loop material that can be released and reattached in an adjusted position with the rear strap section repositioned on the anchor to adjust the attachment strap relative to the shell.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00017", "preamble": "17. A protective helmet comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell having an upper dome with a lower edge and having a separate lower rim with an upper surface that mates against the lower edge; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "fasteners extending vertically engaging against and attaching the rim to the upper dome.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00018", "preamble": "18. The helmet defined in claim 17 , including a faceguard with upwardly-extending legs shaped to attach to the rim.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00019", "preamble": "19. The helmet defined in claim 18 , the faceguard including a first connector on each of the legs and at least one of the dome and rim include mating connectors for engaging the first connector to retain the legs to the helmet.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00020", "preamble": "20. The helmet defined in claim 19 , wherein the first connector includes a securing device attached to each of the legs.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00021", "preamble": "21. The helmet defined in claim 20 , wherein the first connector is made of a material having high durability and spring-back characteristics.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00022", "preamble": "22. The helmet defined in claim 21 , wherein the first connector is made of a different material than the faceguard.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00023", "preamble": "23. The helmet defined in claim 19 , wherein the faceguard includes a cross bar extending between a lower end of the legs, the cross bar and legs forming a shape adapted to extend downwardly from the lower rim and then forwardly and then across a wearer's head at a height approximating the location of the wearer's chin and cheeks.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00024", "preamble": "24. A protective helmet comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell having an upper dome with a lower edge and having a separate lower rim with an upper surface that mates against the lower edge, the rim being attached to the upper dome, including a faceguard with upwardly-extending legs shaped to attach to the rim, the faceguard including a first connector on each of the legs and at least one of the dome and rim include mating connectors for engaging the first connector to retain the legs to the helmet, wherein the mating connector includes an access opening in the rim and also a blind surface formed in the rim adjacent the access opening.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00025", "preamble": "25. The helmet defined in claim 24 , wherein the first connector includes a latch member shaped to releasably engage the blind surface.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00026", "preamble": "26. The helmet defined in claim 25 , wherein the latch member includes a spring biasing the latch member into engagement with the blind surface.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00027", "preamble": "27. The helmet defined in claim 26 , wherein the spring is integrally formed on the latch member.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00028", "preamble": "28. A protective helmet comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell having an upper dome with a lower edge and having a separate lower rim with an upper surface that mates against the lower edge, the rim being attached to the upper dome, wherein the rim includes an outer wall that lies generally flush with an outer surface of the dome, and further includes an inner wall spaced inwardly from the outer wall, and still further includes a lower wall connecting the inner and outer walls to define a space therebetween, including a shock absorber positioned within the dome and including at least a portion that fits into the space defined within the rim.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00029", "preamble": "29. A protective helmet comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell having an upper dome with a lower edge and having a separate lower curvilinear structural member with an upper surface that mates against the lower edge, and including fasteners extending vertically engaging against and attaching the structural member to the upper dome, the structural member extending at least completely across a rear of the shell and at least about halfway forward on each side of the shell.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00030", "preamble": "30. A protective helmet comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the outer helmet shell having a marginal section of material forming a lower perimeter around the helmet shell and further having a horizontally extending rod retainer extending horizontally and that is spaced above the marginal section of material forming the lower perimeter;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an impact-absorbing foam material positioned within the outer helmet shell and that at least partially covers the rod-shaped retainer; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an adjustable suspension positioned within the helmet shell and adapted to engage the wearer's head for supporting the helmet shell on the wearer's head while the protective helmet is being worn, the suspension having at least one front strap attached to the helmet shell and having an adjustable strap that extends over the rod retainer and then back to a location within the helmet shell that is accessible; the adjustable strap having overlapping mating hook-and-loop patches that can be released and adjusted, whereby the adjustable strap can be released, pulled, and reattached to adjust the suspension.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00031", "preamble": "31. A faceguard for a protective helmet that is useful when attached to the helmet to help protect a person's chin and head from injury, the faceguard comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "an elongated curvilinear component having a transverse section and rearwardly-extending side sections in a U-shaped arrangement that is adapted to extend in front of the person's face, the component including attachment legs that extend upwardly from opposing ends of the side sections; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a latch member on each of the opposing ends of the side sections, the latch members each being made of a material different from the component and including hinges attaching the latch members to the opposing ends for movement between a latched position and a latch-released position.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00032", "preamble": "32. The faceguard defined in claim 31 , wherein the hinges include a pivot pin pivotally attaching the latch members to the opposing ends of the component.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00033", "preamble": "33. The faceguard defined in claim 31 , wherein the latch members each include an integrally formed spring.", "components": [] } ]

[ "This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10/829,881, filed Apr. 22, 2004, entitled EQUESTRIAN HELMET WITH FACEGUARD, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.", "The present invention relates to protective helmets with faceguards, and more particularly relates to an equestrian helmet with removable faceguard and having a novel construction to facilitate assembly and use. It is noted that the present helmet and inventive concepts are believed to be usable in a variety of different circumstances and hence several aspects are believed to be broader in scope than just equestrian helmets.", "The equestrian sport of “eventing” has become very popular. Eventing is the equivalent of an “equestrian triathlon” with the rider working with a horse both on the flat and over fences. The three phases are: dressage (the execution by a trained horse of precision movements in response to barely perceptible signals from its rider, somewhat like “show dancing”), endurance (sometimes called “cross-country”), and show jumping. A different level of head protection is needed for the rider in each different event. In dressage, the traditional helmet shape and appearance is very important, since it has become an integral part of the elegant, graceful performance. Contrastingly, in the event of jumping, the rider needs to be protected from a fall but also the rider's face needs to be protected from colliding with the horse's head when jumping since the horse's head and rider's head may move rather violently in opposing directions during a jump. Also, the rider's helmet must not include protruding parts that may strike and injure the horse's head upon collision with the rider's helmet. In the event of cross-country, the raw power and spirit of a horse and the dynamics of other riders and obstructions encountered require that the rider's head be very well protected against a fall, and yet his vision must be totally clear and unobstructed. There are also many other equestrian sports, some where a faceguard is desirable and others where it is not. Finally, in training horses for any of these sports, a faceguard is extremely useful when working with young, inexperienced or sprightly horses that are prone to rearing, bucking or “spooking” (lurching with fear) and endangering the rider's head and face.", "Despite this need for head and face protection, faceguards have not been developed or widely accepted for equestrian helmets. The reasons are many and varied. Riders often do not like to keep multiple helmets around, and do not like to (nor have time to) switch helmets during a competition. It is desirable to provide an equestrian helmet with a removable faceguard to solve this problem, but equestrian helmets have requirements that make them unique and that “complicate” this problem. Riders require a wider field of vision than in most sports and, further, they need the ability to turn their head without restriction from the helmet. Also, the helmet must also be sufficiently light in weight and open around the chin and ears so as to not be a hindrance.", "Furthermore, in some equestrian sports such as dressage, appearance and style are extremely important. The helmet needs to have a very particular outer shape and appearance, and it is not acceptable to have any bulge or appendage, especially on the sides of the helmet. In particular, it is not acceptable to have any protruding attachment structure, whether the faceguard is attached or not. An outwardly protruding attachment structure on a helmet is not only potentially unsightly to equestrian sportsmen (and judges), but it can also be a safety hazard in terms of its potential for causing injury to the horse and/or rider, or for catching or snagging an obstacle or the ground during a fall. Also, any protruding structure can interfere with (if not ruin) the removable bright fabric covers often placed over equestrian helmets when in a competition. Finally, it would be undesirable if an equestrian helmet with its faceguard removed looked as if it was missing something or otherwise looked imperfect.", "More generally, sportsmen do not want to struggle with inserting and/or removing a faceguard. Instead, they would prefer an attachment system that is easy to release and reattach, and an attachment structure that is totally hidden from view. Also, it is desirable to provide a faceguard that provides a very positive engagement, including an audible indication or other positive action that indicates that a secure connection with the helmet has been made. Further, the faceguard must be attractively stylized to combine functional strength with appearance when the faceguard is attached. Removable faceguards even provide riders with the opportunity to swap faceguards made of different colors to match the brightly colored outfits and bright fabric helmet covers common in equestrian competitions.", "Thus, a system having the aforementioned advantages and solving the aforementioned problems is desired.", "In one aspect of the present invention, a protective helmet includes an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell having an upper dome with a lower edge and having a separate lower rim with an upper surface that mates against the lower edge, the rim being attached to the upper dome.", "In another aspect of the present invention, a protective helmet includes an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell having an upper dome with a lower edge and having a separate lower curvilinear structural member with an upper surface that mates against the lower edge. The curvilinear structural member is attached to the upper dome and extends at least completely across a rear of the shell and at least about halfway forward on each side of the shell.", "In still another aspect of the present invention, a protective helmet includes an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the shell defining a lower edge with marginal material defining a pair of cavities along the lower edge. The marginal material at each said cavity defines a downwardly-facing opening for access from below and further defines a laterally-facing opening that extends in a direction perpendicular to the downwardly-facing opening. The cavities are each shaped and adapted to receive an attachment leg of a faceguard so that the attachment leg can be fit upwardly through the downwardly-facing opening and into the cavity, and the laterally-facing opening being shaped and adapted to receive a latch on the leg. By this arrangement, when the leg is fit into the cavity, the latch fits laterally into the laterally-facing opening for retaining the leg in the cavity.", "In still another aspect of the present invention, a faceguard is provided for a protective helmet and that is useful when attached to the helmet to help protect a person's chin and head from injury. The faceguard includes an elongated curvilinear component having a transverse section and rearwardly-extending side sections positioned in a U-shaped arrangement that is adapted to extend around the person's head at a height about equal to the person's chin. The component includes attachment legs that extend upwardly from opposing ends of the side sections. A latch member is provided on each of the opposing ends of the side sections. The latch members are each made of a material different from the component and are attached to the opposing ends for movement between a latched position and a latch-released position.", "In yet another aspect of the present invention, a protective helmet includes an impact-resistant outer helmet shell shaped and adapted to partially cover a wearer's head, the outer helmet shell having a marginal section of material forming a lower perimeter around the helmet shell and further having a horizontally extending rod-shaped retainer extending horizontally and that is spaced above the marginal section of material forming the lower perimeter. An impact-absorbing foam material is positioned within the outer helmet shell and at least partially covers the rod-shaped retainer. An adjustable suspension is positioned within the helmet shell and is adapted to engage the wearer's head for supporting the helmet shell on the wearer's head while the protective helmet is being worn. The suspension has strap ends attached to the marginal section, with at least one of the strap ends being elongated and forming an adjustable strap that extends over the rod-shaped retainer and then back to a location within the helmet shell that is accessible. By this arrangement, the adjustable strap can be pulled to adjust the suspension and whereby friction between the rod-shaped retainer, the foam material and the adjustable strap retain the adjustable strap in an adjusted position.", "It is also an object of the present invention to provide a protective helmet with a faceguard where the faceguard attaches securely and with a robust action to assure that a secure connection has been satisfactorily completed.", "It is also an object of the present invention to provide a protective helmet with a faceguard where the faceguard provides a maximum field of vision yet helps protect the person's jaw and face.", "It is also an object of the present invention to provide an aesthetic yet functional protective helmet with a faceguard designed to complement the shape of the classic equestrian helmet.", "The present invention is believed to include the design and appearance of the present assembly, as well as individual components thereof.", "These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present invention will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.", "FIGS. 1–2 are perspective and side views of an equestrian helmet embodying the present invention;", "FIG. 3 is a side view of the helmet of FIG. 1, including a chin strap worn by a rider;", "FIG. 4 is a front view of FIG. 1;", "FIG. 5 is a cross section taken along lines V—V in FIG. 3;", "FIG. 6 is an exploded view of FIG. 4;", "FIGS. 7–9 are side views of additional embodiments, similar to FIG. 1, but with modified latching systems, the helmet shell in each case being partially broken away to better show the latching system;", "FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative faceguard with a modified latching system; and", "FIG. 11 is a side view of a modified equestrian helmet embodying the present invention;", "FIG. 12 is a side view of another modified equestrian helmet embodying the present invention;", "FIGS. 13–17 are perspective, front, rear, top, and bottom views of FIG. 12;", "FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 12;", "FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XIX—XIX in FIG. 14;", "FIGS. 20–21 are fragmentary sectional views of the latching arrangement for the faceguard, the views being partially broken away to show the latching structure, FIG. 20 showing an unlatched position and FIG. 21 showing a latched position;", "FIGS. 22–24 are perspective, side, and front views of the faceguard; and", "FIG. 25 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 13 but with a fabric outer covering on the helmet.", "A helmet 20 (FIGS. 1–5) is illustrated that is particularly adapted for use in equestrian sports but it is contemplated that it is adapted for use in many other sports and situations where protective head gear is desired that allows a wide unobstructed field of view and where its faceguard may want to be easily and quickly removed. The illustrated helmet 20 (FIG. 3) includes an impact-resistant outer helmet shell 21 and a U-shaped releasably-attached faceguard 22. The shell 21 is formed to cover the upper half and rear of a wearer's head. The shell 21 has an upper dome 23 and also has a lower continuous rim 24 extending around the dome 23. The shell 21 includes a front portion 25, lateral side portions 26, and a rear portion 27, all portions 25–27 having outer surfaces that are relatively smooth, particularly the lateral side portions 26. The reason for this is both aesthetics (i.e., to match the traditional shape of equestrian helmets) and also function (to avoid outward protrusions that can cause safety concerns). Notably in equestrian sports, the appearance is more than just a desire; in higher level competition, it is virtually a requirement as part of the grace and beauty judging that occurs. Accordingly, in some aspects of this design, we consider this feature a physical requirement and not just a visual standard. Also, outward projections would interfere with the attachment of removable bright fabric coverings 28 (FIG. 5) that are often attached in equestrian sports over the shell 21. In particular the fabric coverings 28 can include a brightly colored material with a drawstring or elastic member 29 around its lower perimeter to retain the coverings 28 to the helmet 20. Also, lateral projections are potentially injurious to a horse and/or rider, such as in jumping events where a rider may turn his/her head as the horse's head and rider's helmet abut, such that it is desirable to avoid lateral projections for additional reasons. Finally, it would be undesirable if a helmet with a removable faceguard looked as if it was missing something when the removable faceguard was not being used and was thus removed from the helmet.", "Inside of the lateral side portions 26 are integrally-formed attachment receptors 30 (FIG. 6) (i.e., shark-tooth-shaped pockets), which are designed to be releasably engaged by the latch members 31 on the rearwardly-extending portions of the faceguard 22, as discussed below. The attachment receptors 30 open downwardly through the rim 24, such that they are not visible from the sides or the front of the helmet 20, which is an important property of the present helmet 20 as discussed above. The latch members 31 are integrally formed and resiliently biased and supported on a tail end (or blade portion) of the rear upright section 58 by a living hinge 33 such that they securely engage the attachment receptors 30 with an audible click. Also, this allows them to be released by a simple pinching motion, allowing them to be quickly and easily released from the helmet 21 with a smooth easy finger motion.", "The lateral side portions 26 of the helmet shell 21 (FIG. 5) include an outer wall 40 and inner wall 41 defining the receptor 30 therebetween. The receptor 30 (FIG. 6) has front and rear surfaces 42 and 43 that are angled toward each other. The illustrated surfaces 42 and 43 define a “shark tooth” shape that is conducive to molding since it provides for release of the blade in the molding die that formed the receptor 30. Further the tapered shape of the “shark tooth” receptor allows for easier insertion of the tail end of the upright section 58 and living hinge 33 without a precise alignment prior to insertion. On the rear surface 43 are one or more teeth 44. The illustrated teeth 44 are sufficiently high and perpendicular to the rear surface 43 such that they would require a slide or movable component on the blade of the molding die in order to prevent die lock. However, it is contemplated that there are ways to reduce any need for a movable slide in the molding die such as by tilting and/or shortening the teeth to extend parallel the front surface 42 or by making the teeth into depressions instead of protruding teeth or other ways known in the art of tool-making. It is contemplated that the walls 40–41 and surfaces 42–43 will be integrally molded as part of the helmet shell 21 to provide structural strength and to simplify and reduce costs of the helmet 20, but it is contemplated that the present invention includes other non-integral means of attachment such as an internally-positioned bracket.", "A liner 47 (FIG. 5) is positioned inside of the helmet shell 21 for comfortably supporting the helmet shell 21 on a person's head. The illustrated liner 47 is made from expanded polymeric foam material such as expanded polystyrene pellets for optimal energy absorption to minimize any injury to a person's head upon impact. Such liner materials are well known in the industry of helmet manufacture and a detailed description of such is not necessary for an understanding of the present invention. The illustrated liner 47 includes a depression to matingly receive and engage the attachment receptor 30. A chin strap 48 (FIG. 3) is attached to the helmet shell 21 for retaining the helmet 20 to a rider's head. It is contemplated that the present invention will also work with many different liners and a variety of different chin strap arrangements. For example, the present invention will work with the harness-type support as shown in Timms et al. U.S. Pat. No. 6,317,896, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for the purpose of their teachings. A short visor 49 extends forwardly from the front portion 25 of the helmet shell 21. Also, ventilation apertures such as apertures 50 (FIG. 1) can be integrally formed in the helmet shell 21 such as immediately above the visor where they cause air flow across the rider's head. Other modifications to the helmet shell 21 and liner 47 can be made such as attachment of a top piece 51 to the dome 23.", "The faceguard 22 (FIG. 6) is an integrally molded one-piece part having a U-shaped cross bar 55 that extends across the rider's face near his/her nose and mouth and further includes L-shaped arms 56 that extend upwardly. The arms 56 each include a front horizontal section 57 that extends generally horizontally and a rear upright or vertical section 58 that extends generally vertically. By this arrangement, the field of vision, including peripheral vision, is maximized for the rider since the faceguard 22 is positioned well below the person's eyes. (See FIGS. 3–4.) Notably, the cross bar 55 and arms 56 can be made thicker or thinner and to have different optimally-shaped cross sections to resist forces of impact. The illustrated cross section of the upper end of the arms 56 is rather long in a fore-to-aft direction (FIG. 6) for strength against a frontal impact but is relatively thin in a lateral direction (FIG. 5) to provide give and flexure in a lateral direction and to minimize intrusion into the space within the helmet shell 21 for the liner 47 and the rider's head. The portion of the blade as it enters the helmet shell 21 can be enlarged and present a step to resist the blade from acting as a wedge as a force attempts to cause the blade to move into the receptacle in the helmet. Alternatively, depending on material strengths, a step may not be required.", "The tail end of the vertical section 58 (FIG. 6) is “blade” shaped and includes a thinned resilient region forming the integral living hinge 33. The latching member 31 extends in a reverse direction parallel the vertical section 58. The latching member 31, in its engaged position, is spaced slightly from the vertical section 58 and is biased outwardly to engage a tooth(s) 59 with the teeth 44 on the rear surface 43 of the receptor 30 of the attachment structure on the helmet shell 21. A lower end of the latching member 31 extends slightly below the rim 24 to form a tab-like handle 59′. By a simple finger action on the handle 59′ first in a direction toward the vertical section 58 and then downwardly, the faceguard 22 can be quickly and easily removed. To engage the faceguard 22, the faceguard 22 is manipulated to place the living hinge 33 in the receptor 30, and then it automatically self-aligns as the faceguard 22 is moved upward into position. As the faceguard 22 moves to its fully inserted position, the tooth(s) 59 ramp onto the teeth 44 and then snap into position with an audible click. This is very desirable since it indicates to the rider that the faceguard 22 is fully inserted and locked into position. Also, I've found that the sound provides a feedback of secure connection to the rider that is greatly appreciated.", "As noted above, the structure of faceguards (and also the aesthetics) is important in many equestrian sports. The illustrated faceguard 22 provides both. In particular, the flowing lines from the vertical section 58 create symmetry with the strap 48 (FIG. 3) that is believed to be acceptable to riders and judges of equestrian events. The forward section 57 also extends generally parallel the visor 49 in a similarly symmetrical and acceptable fashion. This is believed to be more than mere appearance, though it clearly also has novel, ornamental, and non-obvious distinctiveness, in my opinion.", "Upon impact, the illustrated faceguard 22 (FIG. 3) is able to move and flex slightly as indicated by arrow 60. Notably, this action does not cause release of the latching member 31 due to the direction of forces generated in the present arrangement.", "Additional embodiments of the present invention are presented below. Features that are similar or identical are identified using the same numbers as previously discussed but with the addition of a letter “A,” “B,” or “C.” This is done for the purpose of reducing redundant discussion.", "In an alternative faceguard 22A (FIG. 7), the latching member 31A is moved to a front side of the vertical section 58A which is the reverse of the faceguard 22 (FIG. 3). The teeth 44A (FIG. 7) are positioned on the front surface 42A, and latching tooth(s) 59A are similarly moved to a location on the latching member 31A for engagement with the teeth 44A. Upon impact, the faceguard 22A tends to immediately resist any impacting force by generation of a resisting torque created by forces from the helmet shell 21A indicated at arrows 61A and 62A. At the same time, any impact forces that would tend to force a person's head upward would be dampened by a limited movement 63A of the faceguard 22A as the vertical section 58A moves against the latching member 31A.", "In an alternative faceguard 22B (FIG. 8), the front horizontal section 57B of the faceguard 22B is elongated such that its rear end 64B (i.e. at the joint 71B of the horizontal and vertical sections 57B and 58B) abuts the rear surface 43B of the receptor 30B. Thus, when a front impact occurs such as when a rider's face strikes a horse's neck or head, the force is immediately resisted without movement of the faceguard 22B. Also, the handle 59B′ is shaped to create an aesthetic and highly useful arrangement where the rider is able to release the latching member 31B by pinching the handle 59B′ to cause the latching member 31B to move to a release position.", "In an alternative faceguard 22C (FIG. 9) a sleeve-like locking member 70C is slidably positioned on the vertical section 58C. The locking member 70C is configured to move into the space between the latching member 31C and the vertical section 58C. A detent formed between the locking member 70C and the vertical section 58C retains the locking member 70C in its locking position until a person pulls down on the locking member 70C. This illustrated faceguard 22C includes front and rear latching members 31C and the illustrated locking member 70C includes front and rear flanges adapted to take up the spaces between the two latching members 31C and the vertical section 58C. By this arrangement, when the locking member 70C is in an up/locked position, the faceguard 22C is rigidly attached to the helmet shell 21C and is not moveable upon impact. Nonetheless, it is noted that some flexing and bending of the faceguard 22C will occur during an impact. For example, in a front impact, the horizontal and vertical sections 57C and 58C will torsionally absorb energy as they bend, particularly at their joint 71C.", "FIG. 10 discloses a particular faceguard 22D where the tail end of the vertical section 58D includes a protruding guide ramp section 80D on an outboard side surface having a width narrower than the section 58D. The ramp section 80D helps with alignment and stabilization of the blade in the helmet. Also, the latching member 31D is modified to be thinner than the vertical section 58D, and to include a distinctive step 81D that helps to form a positive engagement with the mating step in the receptacle in the helmet and helps to provide the distinctive click noise during positive latching engagement. The lower end of the latching member 31D includes an enlarged tab 82D forming an enlarged surface for receiving a finger when pressing the latching member 31D to release the faceguard 22D. The other side of the faceguard 22D is similarly shaped.", "FIG. 11 discloses a particular helmet 20E having a shell 21E and faceguard 22E similar to that shown in FIG. 1, but with a chin strap 48E with a chin-engaging section 48E′. (Compare FIGS. 3 and 11.)", "A modified helmet 120 (FIG. 12) is provided that also is particularly adapted for use in equestrian sports. Nonetheless, like the aforementioned helmets, it is contemplated that the helmet 120 is adapted for use in many other sports and situations where protective head gear is desired that allows a wide unobstructed field of view and where its faceguard may want to be easily and quickly removed. In the additional embodiment below, features that are similar or identical are identified using the same numbers as previously discussed but with the addition of 100 to the number. For example, number 120 is used for the helmet (previously referred to as number 20, etc). This is done for the purpose of reducing redundant discussion.", "The illustrated helmet 120 (FIG. 12) includes an impact-resistant outer helmet shell 121 and a U-shaped releasably-attached faceguard 122. The shell 121 is formed to cover an upper half and rear neck portion of a wearer's head. The shell 121 (FIG. 18) is two-piece, and includes an upper dome 123 and also has a lower continuous rim 124 extending around the dome 123. The lower rim 124 fits matably against a bottom edge of the dome 123 and is screwed thereto to form a rigid assembly. The separate lower rim 124 facilitates molding into the shell the latching cavities 130 (also called “receptors” herein), the cavities 130 having undercut laterally-extending surfaces designed to be releasably engaged by the latch members 131 on the rearwardly extending portions of the faceguard 122, as discussed below. The attachment cavities 130 open downwardly through the rim 124, such that they are not visible from the sides or the front of the helmet 120, which is an important property of the present helmet 120 as discussed above. In helmet 120, the latch members 131 are separately molded components pivotally attached to and supported on a tail end (or blade portion) of the rear upright section 158. The latch members 131 include a main body biased into engagement with the laterally extending surfaces by an integral spring 235 such that they securely engage the attachment receptors 130 with an audible click. Also, this allows them to be released by a simple pinching motion, allowing the faceguard 122 to be quickly and easily released from the helmet 121 with a smooth easy finger motion. At the same time, this allows the latch members 131 to be made of a material optimized for durability and resiliency, which is preferably of a material different than the faceguard itself.", "As illustrated in FIG. 18, a foam shock absorber 200 is positioned within the helmet 120 in a position captured between the upper dome 123 and lower rim 124. A chin strap 201 is secured to the assembly of the helmet 120 and shock absorber 200, and includes first strap sections 202 that extend downwardly from the helmet 120 at position generally forward of a wearer's ears. Releasable clips 203 are provided on ends of the strap sections 202 for engagement proximate a wearer's chin. The strap sections 202 may also include a chin pad if desired. The chin strap 201 also includes a rear strap section 204 that extends from a location above a rear neck area of the wearer, and extends downwardly and around the strap sections 202.", "An adjustable strap 205 (FIG. 18) secures the rear strap section 204 to the assembly of the helmet 120 and shock absorber 200. Specifically, a transverse rod-shaped anchor 206 is positioned in the helmet 120 above the rim 124 and between the shock absorber 200 and the upper dome 123. A cup-shaped or cylindrical bushing is positioned on each end of the anchor 206 to assist in rotation of the anchor and to provide clearance for the strap. The adjustable strap 205 (FIG. 19) extends around the anchor 206 and doubles back on itself at a location where it includes mating patches 207 of hook-and-loop material. The adjustable strap 205 allows adjustment of the chin strap 201 by providing for a length adjustment of the adjustable strap 205 as follows. A person wearing the helmet 120 can pull a terminal end 208 of the adjustable strap 205 free, and then pull downward to shorten the strap (or can then adjust the helmet to cause the strap to lengthen). This causes the chin strap 201 to be lengthened relative to the chin of a person wearing the helmet 120. The chin strap 201 is fixed in the new position by reattaching the patches 207. Notably, when the adjustable strap 205 is pulled, it slidingly rolls around the rod-like anchor 206 with a smooth and relatively easy motion. Also, the rod-like anchor 206 can be supported for slight rotation and/or fore/aft movement when adjustable strap 205 is adjusted. An upper portion of the rim 124 can be configured to securely support the anchor 206 with sufficient stability for the purpose intended. Thus, a unique and user-friendly adjustability is provided with the present helmet 120. Where desired, additional patches 209 are provided on the chin strap 201 and/or on an inside of the shock absorber 200, such as for comfort and/or absorption of sweat.", "The shell 121 (FIG. 18) includes a front portion 125, lateral side portions 126, and a rear portion 127, all portions 125–127 having outer surfaces that are relatively smooth, particularly the lateral side portions 126. The reason for this is both aesthetics (i.e., to match the traditional shape of equestrian helmets) and also function (to avoid outward protrusions that can cause safety concerns). Nonetheless, recesses and embossments can be formed into the shell dome 123 for functional reasons and as a complementary shape to the helmet design as noted below.", "The shock absorber 200 (FIG. 18) is configured to fit matably upwardly into the concavity of the upper dome 123 and further includes a lower portion shaped to fit matably into a concavity of the lower rim 124. It is contemplated that the assembly of the upper dome 123 and lower rim 124 will create a clean, relatively “perfect” line around the helmet 120. Further, in many cases, the helmet 120 will be covered by a fabric covering 211 (FIG. 25), such that the line will not be visible. Nonetheless, it is noted that an aesthetic tape 212 (FIG. 18) can be used. Where the aesthetic tape 212 is about ¼ inch wide (or wider), the tape 212 doubles as an additional attachment device for securing the dome 123 and rim 124 together. It is noted that the present invention is intended to include securing the dome 123 and rim 124 together in many different ways, such as mechanically (with screws as shown, or with rivets, heat-staked studs, sticky tape spanning the line of joindure, integral structure configured for snap-attachment, etc), chemically (adhesively, material bonding through melting, RF bonding, sonic bonding, insert or over-molding, etc), and/or in combinations of the above.", "The upper dome 123 (FIG. 18) is particularly constructed to facilitate molding and later assembly. The upper dome 123 includes an X-shaped arrangement of embossed ribs 214 that extend across the upper dome 123, providing stiffening of the upper dome 123. The ribs 214 form recessed areas 214 that have been found to provide a very attractive “balanced” appearance to the upper dome 123. Upper dome 123 also is configured with apertures 215 that match apertures 216 in the shock absorber 200. The apertures 215 and 216 align to provide for air flow through to a person wearing the helmet 120, which can be important for comfort and to provide cooling air to the wearer's head.", "Rim 124 (FIG. 18) as shown forms a continuous ring matching a lower portion of the upper dome 123, and includes a forwardly-extending portion forming a bill 124′.", "The illustrated bill 124′ is integrally formed with the rim 124. However, it is contemplated that the bill (124′) can be made as a separate part and from a softer material. In such circumstance, the bill would include a rear edge clamped between the rim 124 and the dome 123. If desired, the bill could include a ridge that fits into a groove running along the inter-engaging surfaces between the rim 124 and dome 123. The bill could be removed by loosening the screws, removing the bill from between the rim 124 and dome 123, and re-tightening the screws. For example some equestrian covers already have a soft bill on them, and it may be undesirable to have a “second” or duplicative bill on the helmet 120.", "More specifically in regard to the illustrated rim, the rim 124 includes spaced apart inner and outer walls 220 and 221 connected by a lower wall 222 to define an upwardly facing cavity 223 adapted to receive a lower edge of the shock absorber 200. An outer surface of the outer wall 220 generally aligns with an outer surface of the upper dome 123 for providing a flush appearance, but can of course include an offset if desired. A plurality of apertured bosses 224 are positioned around the rim 124 in the cavity 223, and are positioned to align with similarly shaped apertured bosses on the upper dome 123. Screws 226 fit through the lower bosses 224 and thread into the aligned apertured bosses in the upper dome 123 to secure the rim 123 to the dome 124. Stiffening ribs 227 extend between the inner and outer walls 220 and 221 for stabilizing the walls 220 and 221. It is noted that the bosses 224 also support the walls 220 and 221 relative to each other.", "The stiffening ribs 227 (FIG. 18) are located generally above and a bit behind the wearer's ears at a location where they form part of the attachment cavities 130. It is contemplated that the attachment cavities 130 include an apertured opening or notched surface forming a “blind” surface 229 suitable for latching engagement by latch members 131 on the faceguard 122. The lower wall 222 includes a downwardly-open access opening 230 for the blade ends 231 of the faceguard 122 to fit upwardly into.", "The latching members 131 (FIGS. 20–21) are separately molded plastic components made of a durable resilient material such as nylon. Each latching member 131 includes a body 233 pivoted to the blade end 231 near its upper end by a rivet-like pivot pin 234. An integrally formed leaf spring 235 extends from an upper end of the body 233 at an angle such that it engages the blind surface 229 on the rim 124 to bias the body 233 of the latching member 130 forwardly. A latching ledge 237 is formed in a front of the body 233. The latching ledge 237 is shaped to engage the blind surface 229 formed on the rim 124 when the blade end 231 is fully inserted into the cavity 130, and is biased into engagement by the spring 235. A release tab 239 is formed on the body 233 and is shaped for depressing engagement by a wearer's finger to move the body 233 against a force of the spring 235 into a position where the latching ledge 237 is released from the blind surface 229. The tab 239 extends below the rim 124 for easy access, and is positioned near but spaced slightly from the blade end 231, so that the wearer can, with one hand and with a smooth easy motion, pinch the tab 239 against the blade end 231 and release the latching member(s) 130 on the faceguard 122. A shape of the release tab 239 generally matches and complements a shape of the blade end 231, so that the helmet's aesthetics are maintained.", "The fabric covering 211 (FIG. 25) includes a fabric main panel with elastic or cord 211′ around its perimeter. Such fabric coverings are well known in the art, such that a detailed description is not required herein. The illustrated covering 211 can be positioned on the helmet 120, with its perimeter and elastic tensioned around the helmet 120 at a location under the rim 124. Alternatively, the perimeter of the covering can be pinched between or secured along the joint line between the dome 123 and rim 124. If desired, retainers can be formed along the joindure of the dome 123 and rim 124 for retaining the covering.", "It is also contemplated that the appearance of the designs of the assembly and of the various components individually as illustrated in the various FIGS. 1–25 are novel, ornamental, and unobvious and hence patentable based on their aesthetics.", "It is to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structure without departing from the concepts of the present invention and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise." ]

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[ { "classification_level": "A", "section": "A", "classification_class": "61", "subclass": "F", "main_group": "9", "subgroup": "00" } ]

[ "Caprio" ]

[ "Raggle, Inc." ]

[ { "claim_number": "CLM-00001", "preamble": "1. A nursing garment and support bra as an outer body covering for a nursing mother suitable as a sleeping garment and support bra which provides support for the breasts and access to the breasts by a nursing infant, which nursing garment and support bra, in combination, comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "two cros-over shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panels with Vnecklines and elastic straps incorporated therein;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an abdomen covering panel;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a back covering panel;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "the two cross-over-shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panels secured to the abdomen-covering panel by a seam joining the said two breast retention panels to said abdomen covering panel to form a Vneckline opening, each said cross-over breast retention panel constructed of an angled side edge to form one side of a Vneckline, each said panel crossing over the other,", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "the two cross-over shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panels are attached to the back panel to form right and left coverings for the right breast and left breast of the nursing mother, each shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panel secured to a top of the back covering panel to form shoulder support of the garment;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "each cross-over shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panel comprising two fabric layers, a first fabric layer as an outer panel covering, a second fabric layer as a liner for the first fabric layer and, each second fabric layer containing an opening positioned over each breast;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "each cross-over shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panel containing an elastic strap positioned on the Vneckline of each shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panel from the shoulder of each said breast retention panel to the seam securing each breast retention panel to the abdomen covering panel;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "said elastic strap positioned on said Vneckline and secured to said seam securing each cross-over shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panel to the abdomen panel below the breasts, and secured to each side seam of the back covering panel at the left and right sides of the garment;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "the abdomen covering panel secured to each side of the back covering panel to form a body covering garment in conjunction with said two cross-over shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panels and;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "means to secure the bottom edges of the abdomen covering panel and the joined back covering panel as a retention means for positioning and fitting the nursing garment and support bra around the nursing mother's body.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00002", "preamble": "2. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein the two fabric layers of said two cross-over shoulder supported shoulder slip-off breast retention panels are joined with, the fabric layer on the body side of each said breast retention panel having an opening.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00003", "preamble": "3. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein the garment is made of a natural, synthetic or natural/synthetic blend fabric, which is soft, stretchable, and resilient, providing a moderate degree of support for the portion of the woman's body which it encases.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00004", "preamble": "4. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein the fabric of the garment is selected from the group consisting of spandex, nylon, polyester, cotton and blends thereof.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00005", "preamble": "5. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein the back covering has “scoop” style shoulder straps to define a conventional back neck opening wherein the back neck opening extends to about the shoulder blades and the arm opening is defined by the garment's shoulder straps.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00006", "preamble": "6. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein the back covering is defined with “T” style shoulder straps, the neck opening does not extend down the back of the wearer, is high up on the back and close to the neck line, and the arm openings extend into the back of the wearer sufficiently to provide support to the bosom of the wearer.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00007", "preamble": "7. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein said outer body covering encases a woman's torso.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00008", "preamble": "8. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein the back of the garment from the center back below the neck opening of the garment to the bottom hem line of the garment, comprises a fitted back.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00009", "preamble": "9. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein said means secured to the bottom edges of the abdomen covering panel and the joined back covering panel as a retention means for positioning and fitting the garment around the nursing mother's body comprises an elastic lace of a sufficient elasticity to provide moderate stretchability without high stretchability.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00010", "preamble": "10. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein said means to secure the bottom edges of the abdomen covering panel and the joined back cover panel for positioning and fitting the garment around the nursing mothers body comprises a hem line secured to the bottom edges of the abdomen covering panel and the joined back covering panel.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00011", "preamble": "11. The nursing garment and support bra of claim 1 wherein said opening is positioned to fit over each breast for positioning, a breast pad and prosthesis, and is, in the form of any one of a slit, a circular opening, an oval opening or combination thereof.", "components": [] } ]

[ "1. Field of the Invention", "The present invention relates to a nursing garment suitable as a sleeping gown and more particularly accommodates the need of a nursing mother for support of the bosom during sleeping and provides for absorption of fluid leaking from the breasts during the night. The present invention relates to a garment which provides support to the wearer but does not restrict movement of the wearer without the necessity of wearing a bra, thus alleviating the discomfort and restrictions of wearing a bra. The present invention also relates to a garment suitable as a support bra for women who have undergone mastectomies, lump-ectomies and breast reduction to provide a garment with needed support after these surgeries.", "The invented garment functions as a bra replacement for women who have undergone mastectomies, lump-ectomies and breast reduction. Women who have undergone these procedures may wear the present invention as a support top and use it to give them the support needed after these surgeries without the discomfort of wearing a bra. The top supports the wearer but does not restrict movement of the wearer.", "The pockets in the present invention allow a woman wearing it after breast surgery to place her prosthetic device right into the top, rather than needing a separate garment to hold her prosthesis. These pockets allow the wearer to place the prosthesis in either or both sides of the top allowing a comfortable and more natural look.", "The present invention is designed in a full length or waist length as well as a shorter, midriff length. This allows the wearer to wear the garment(s) in all stages of her recovery. Most patients are not allowed to wear bras or any garments that cut under the bust line after surgery. The top in the waist length allows the wearer to feel the support of a bra but not be restricted under the bust line. Upon further recovery, the patient can utilize the top in the shorter length or midriff length allowing the wearer to return to a bra type garment and still not have the need to layer a prosthetic holding bra or device under her bra because the pockets are in the present invention as well.", "The invented garment overcomes the problem that there are no garments currently available in the mastectomy or breast reduction clothing market that have pockets for the prosthesis, encompassing a design that gives support to the “good” breast. Also the garments that are on the market typically consist of a looser design that does not support either breast. The present invention supports the “good” breast and holds the prosthetic device close to the body of the wearer for a natural, more comfortable fit and effect.", "The purpose of the garment is to provide sleepwear for a nursing mother and a support bra for women who have undergone surgery. The garment accommodates the need of a nursing mother for support of the bosom without the requirement for a nursing brassiere being a necessity for sleeping and nursing. The garment is unique in that the garment provides support to the woman's bosom without the constrictions of a nursing bra. The garment is comfortable enough to wear every day and all day, yet holds the bosom to the body with support at night during sleep. The garment eliminates the need to wear a nursing bra and a pajama top or pajama jacket to bed. This garment is unique in that the invented garment avoids the constrictions of a bra, yet provides the needed support for the bosom, accommodates the need for a nursing bra, and accommodates the need of the infant to nurse. The garment is unique in that it functions as a support bra for women who have undergone mastectomies, lump-ectomies and breast reduction.", "Many women need more support than others so a large busted woman will need more support than a small-busted woman. After pregnancy and birth of a child, even a small-busted woman frequently will have a larger bust than before the pregnancy and birth. The instant invented garment provides the means to adjust the garment and provide the needed support for either a large busted woman or for the change in bust size as required by the woman's changing size from pregnancy to post delivery.", "During periods of nursing, while the infant is nursing at one breast, the stimulation occasioned by the feeding infant at the one breast can result in flow from the other breast of the woman in what has been termed “leakage.” The flow from the breast not in use can soak the woman's clothing and render the garments wet and uncomfortable to wear. The invented embodiment provides breast pad pockets to hold breast pads to contain leakage from the breasts.", "The invented garment comprises a sleepwear garment for a nursing mother, the garment utilizing a fabric of a cotton blend with a stretch constituent fabric, spandex, the garment being designed as a shoulder supported garment of waist length with an elastic bias seam beneath the bust line and above the waist-length of the garment. Closure means of the upper overlays above the body-encircling bias seam is provided, the upper body overlays containing inside pockets for holding removable breast pads to contain breast leakage. The inside pockets can hold a prosthesis device if such is used.", "The invented embodiment allows women to use breast pads if desired. If no breast pad is desired, the garment lies flat against the breasts and remains comfortable and supportive. A woman therefor can wear the garment in the invented embodiment long after the woman stops nursing. If breast pads are used for a few months and then discarded, the garment will return to a flatter shape and not hold the shape when breast pads were used. The invented garment with breast pad inserts in the breast pad pockets can be worn as a nursing garment and later as comfortable, supportive sleepwear and a support bra after the need for nursing has passed without the breast pad inserts. The invented embodiment allows women after breast surgery requiring a prosthesis to place the prosthesis device in the breast pad pockets of the garment rather than needing a separate garment to hold the prosthesis. The separate breast pad pockets allow the wearer to place the prosthesis in either or both sides of the garment to allow a comfortable and natural appearance without the discomfort of wearing a bra but with the support needed after surgery.", "2. Description of the Prior Art", "Many prior art nursing garments are known in the art to accommodate a nursing mother to nurse a child while wearing a garment. The prior art garments, however, tend to be directed to separate aspects of the problems a nursing mother encounters. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,848,439 relates to a nursing cape adapted to cover a mother's upper torso and drape over an infant while breast-feeding to provide a high level of privacy. U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,086 teaches a nursing garment which includes a vest which is attached to an undergarment which covers the upper torso of a nursing mother. The undergarment has a pair of openings through which the mother's breasts will protrude to permit nursing of a baby. Pockets formed in the vest on the inward side by a pair of flaps of liquid permeable material have liquid absorbent material inserted therein to absorb liquid which may leak from the nursing mother's breasts. The disposable or washable pads which fit therein and their use have been taught in the prior art. U.S. Pat. No. 5,592,692 discloses a garment which conceals a woman's breast while nursing and which can be worn over a wearer's existing clothing to allow a mother to nurse in public where access to privacy is unavailable. U.S. Pat. No. 5,461,725 provides a nursing garment with stretchable resilient support straps and a bodice. The straps are sufficiently resilient and stretchable so that the wearer can pull down the bodice to expose a breast for nursing, and when through, the wearer can return the bodice to its original position covering the breast. The bodice is V-necked and features a left cup and a right cup and is made to exhibit good horizontal stretch. The straps can be made of the same material as the bodice and can be of the same resilient and stretchable material. The bodice cups are formed by elastic shirring down the center of the bodice between the cups thus formed. A band below the cups serves to hold the bodice in place on the body of the wearer as well as to form the cups. Nursing pads or breast pads can be inserted between the material layers of the bodice and are removably secured. The cups support the breasts without a bra. In use, the wearer pulls down a cup to expose a breast, the cup being held under the breast by the contour and fold of the breast. The other breast remains in its cup. The garment can be of the empire style and reveal some breast cleavage to enhance the woman's figure.", "Other prior art patents relate to similar related aspects of problems encountered by a nursing mother as to privacy and the need for nursing pads or the need to adjust her garment to feed an infant. U.S. Pat. No. 5,182,813 discloses a nursing garment having a pair of movable breast cover panels connected to opposite sides of an inwardly facing pleat face, the breast panels held in place by interior connections to conceal the wearer's breasts from view through the openings during normal wearing conditions. During nursing, the breast panels are moved through the slash opening of the pleat face to position the breast to allow the infant access to the breast. U.S. Pat. No. 5,103,501 discloses undergarments fabricated out of soft absorbent material. An undershirt has breast openings and nursing pads which cover the breast openings. The breast pads are removable to allow a woman to breast-feed a baby. U.S. Pat. No. 4,648,404 discloses a coordinated nursing slip and a nursing bra which can be worn separately or in combination. In combination, the slip bosom and the bra nursing flap open and close decorously as a unit to allow a mother to nurse her baby in semi-public surroundings with minimum social embarrassment. The nursing feature of the slip is invisible so that it could be worn as a regular slip after the nursing period is over. In use, the slip bosom and bra nursing flap are opened in unison to permit the mother to nurse. U.S. Pat. No. 4,208,743 discloses a gown for a mother to nurse an infant without partially disrobing. The gown is provided with two apertures, one on each side, essentially under each arm, each aperture so located that either breast can be exposed. The apertures are located to enable the mother to insert both hands at the same time to open a nursing type brassiere to nurse a child without opening the gown or exposing the body. U.S. Pat. No. 3,611,439 discloses a nursing gown with breast covering panels which can be dropped to expose either breast for the purpose of nursing.", "None of the above inventions and patents, taken either singularly or in combination, is seen to describe the instant invention. Thus a nursing garment suitable as a sleeping gown and can function as a support bra for women who have undergone surgery, which particularly accommodates the need of a nursing mother for support of the bosom during sleep without the requirement for a nursing brassiere and provides for absorption of fluid leaking from the breasts during the night or from one breast when the infant is on the other breast is desired.", "The invented garment a sleepwear garment for a nursing mother and a support bra for women who have undergone surgery. The garment utilizes a fabric of cotton blended with a stretch constituent, spandex, the garment comprising a shoulder supported garment of waist length with bosom support and retained shoulder slio-off front cross-over panels held in place by shoulder straps. The front shoulder straps and front panels have elastic straps incorporated therein for securing the shoulder straps and front panels in place over the breasts. The front shoulder straps and front panels are a single piece secured to the breast support seam of the garment. The breast support seam located below the breasts incorporates an elastic strap and is secured by the side seams of the garment back. An elastic stretch lace secures the garment around the body of the wearer. Each front panel includes a breast pad pocket, the pocket comprising a liner sewn into each front panel to hold a breast pad or prosthesis. Each panel liner embodying the pocket has an opening on the body side to provide access for the breast pad insert or prosthesis. The outer covering, the front shoulder straps and front panels, and the inner breast pad pocket liners are made of soft, stretchable natural, or synthetic fabrics or blends thereof. Preferably the garment is made of a fabric with stretchability.", "FIG. 1 is a front view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention with the elastic straps on the front panels, the breast support elastic strap and the elastic lace trim and hidden pockets shown in each panel.", "FIG. 2 is a cutaway of the present invention to show the body side breast panel pocket openings in each panel liner.", "FIG. 3 is a view of a scoop back of the garment.", "FIG. 4 is a view of a “T” style, or racer style, back of the garment.", "In describing the preferred embodiments of the present invention, reference is made to FIGS. 1-4 in which like numerals refer to like features of the invention.", "A front view of the preferred embodiment of the invention is depicted in FIG. 1. The sleepwear garment comprises an outer covering 10 consisting of two breast retention cross-over panels, 17 and 18, abdomen covering panel 14 and a back covering panel 12. The two cross-over breast retention panels 17 and 18 are constructed of angled side edges to form one side of the Vneckline and the bottom of the Vneckline is formed where the panels cross one over the other as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Panels 17 and 18 are joined to panel 14 by seam 20. Seam 20 is located above the waistline of the wearer of the garment and suitably below the breasts to cause the breast retention panels to support the undersides and sides of the breasts but do not otherwise restrict movement of the breasts by the wearer of the garment. Covering 10 extends below the arms and includes shoulder straps 16 as part of the breast retention panels. The outer covering 10 is made of a natural, synthetic or natural/synthetic blend fabric suitable for the desired end use such as spandex, nylon, polyester, cotton or blends thereof. The fabric should be soft, stretchable and resilient while still providing a moderate degree of support for the portion of the woman's torso, which it encases.", "As shown in FIG. 1, the outer covering 10 encases at least the bust region of a woman's torso and covers the abdomen, hips and rear areas as well, those portions of a woman's torso conventionally covered by a woman's jacket. Alternatively, the outer covering 10 can comprise a full-length gown, which encases a woman's torso from the shoulders to below the knees with a full skirt for the wearer's comfort and ease of movement. The shoulder straps form a neck opening 19 and a pair of arm openings 35. The lower portion 14 of outer covering 10 covering the abdomen and the two breast retention panels 17 and 18, with v-necklines, are sewn or otherwise secured to the garment's back panel 12 along the side seams. The front panel covering the abdomen and the rear portion of the outer covering may be made of separate fabric panels in which case they are sewn or otherwise secured along side seams. Each breast retention panel, 17 and 18, comprises two layers of fabric, the inner layer 32 containing openings to insert breast pads, the outer layer furnishing the outer covering 10, the two layers sewn together to form a pocket therein, the inner layer 32 with an opening 22 on the body side to provide access for placement of a pad or prosthesis between the layers.", "As shown in FIG. 1, each shoulder strap 16 of each breast retention panel which form the shoulder straps of the garment, there is an elastic strap 25 secured to each shoulder strap 16 joining the shoulder end of the shoulder strap to the seam 20 joining the breast retention panels and the abdomen covering panel 14. An elastic strap 30 is secured to seam 20 joining the breast retention panels 17 and 18 and the abdomen covering panel 14, the elastic strap 30 secured to the side seams joining the back panel 12 to the breast retention panels 17 and 18 and abdomen covering panel 14. The elastic straps are of a suitable elasticity to provide a measure of support to the undersides and sides of the breasts. Elastic lace 26 is secured to the lower portion of the abdomen covering panel 14 and the back 12 of garment 10 as a stretchable retention means for positioning and fitting the garment to secure the garment around the body of the wearer. The elastic lace 26 is of a sufficient elasticity to provide moderate stretch ability of the garment without high stretch ability. Alternatively, a hemline is secured to the lower portion of the abdomen covering panel 14 and the back 12 of garment 10 as a retention means for positioning and fitting the garment around the nursing mother's body.", "FIG. 2 depicts the hidden breast retention liners of panels 17 and 18 with openings 22 providing entrance to the breast retention panel pockets formed within the panel between the outer covering and the liner. The openings 22 are suitably positioned to fit over each breast for positioning, a breast pad and prosthesis, and is, alternatively, in the form of a slit, a circular opening, an oval opening, and any modification of a slit opening, a circular opening, oval opening.", "The breast pad pocket openings on each breast retention panel are suitably located that the breast pads and prosthesis are secured between the breasts and the breast retention panels, the breast pads and prosthesis being held between the two fabric layers of each breast panel, the fabric layers being soft stretchable and resilient of cotton with a stretch constituent, spandex, to hold the breast pads and prosthesis in place over each breast.", "FIG. 3 depicts the rear view of the nursing garment with “scoop” style back shoulder neckline and shows the elastic lace 26 secured to the garment to secure the garment around the body of the wearer. The shoulder straps 16 define a conventional “scoop” back in which the neck opening 19 extends to about the shoulder blades.", "FIG. 4 depicts the rear view of the nursing garment with alternative “T” style shoulder straps or a “racer” back to provide added support to women who need such. In the alternative style shown, the shoulder straps 16 define the “T” style back in which the neck opening 19 does not extend down the back of the wearer but is higher up on the back and closer to the neck line while the arm openings 18 extend well into the back of the wearer. Any other type of construction along the back region of the garment may be utilized to provide support to the bosom of the wearer but such construction should provide cross support as high as possible and preferably no lower than just below the bust line.", "Turning again to FIG. 1, the view depicts that the nursing garment embodies a Vneckline. This allows the nursing mother to slide either shoulder strap off her shoulder to nurse her child. The Vneckline in the front of the garment allows the woman to easily slip the shoulder strap and breast retention panel down so that there is no need to fumble with hooks or clasps in the middle of the feeding period. One breast remains covered while the other breast is used. In an alternative embodiment, there is no need for the woman to be concerned about soaking the garment while nursing the baby because the breast pads stay in place by the stretchability and elastic support provided by the stretchable materials of the fabric layers of the panels and can absorb fluid from the breast not being used for nursing. The breast pads, remaining in place, also absorb fluid from both breasts after the nursing period if fluid continues to flow.", "Referring to FIG. 2, the breast pad pocket openings 22 depicted are hidden on each breast retention panel 17 and 18 by outer covering 10. The breast pad pocket openings are positioned on each panel 17 and 18 in suitable position over each breast, each opening to receive and hold a breast pad or prosthesis. The dimension of the opening can be sized to allow breast pads of any suitable size to be held in place by the stretchability and elastic support provided by the stretchable materials of the fabric layers of the panels. The breast retention panel inner layers are fashioned of the same material as throughout the garment but it is understood that variations in fabric used for the inner layers and the dimensions of the opening are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.", "Essential elements of the garment comprise the two Vneckline breast retention panels which are easily slipped off the wearer's shoulder to expose a breast, and the three elastic straps which hold the garment in place on the wearer as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Two straps 16 are secured to the Vnecklines of the breast retention panels 17 and 18. The third breast support elastic strap 20 is located below the bosom and secured to the side seams joining the breast retention panels to the back panel. The breast support elastic strap 20 is also secured to the seam joining the two breast retention panels to the abdomen-covering panel. An additional essential element comprises the elastic lace strap, which encircles the wearer at the base of the garment and serves to hold the garment in place around the torso of the wearer. The fabric comprising the garment is an additional essential element being a cotton blend with a stretch constituent which provides stretchability with recoverability, is soft to the touch, and supportive to the wearer's body. The Vneckline design of the garment as in FIGS. 1 and 2 is a further essential element of the garment 10 in that the separate breast panels comprising the Vneckline permit the wearer to slip a breast retention panel and shoulder strap off her shoulder at the wearer's convenience without undoing straps, hooks, buttons, or clasps, and to readjust the breast retention panel and shoulder strap back upon her body to the panel's original breast covering position with ease.", "An alternative embodiment of the invented garment can comprise a full-length gown or dress which encases a woman's torso from the shoulders to below the knees with a full skirt for the wearer's comfort and ease of movement. An alternative embodiment of the dress can comprise the back of the dress having a center seam running from the center back below the neck opening 19 of the gown to the center of the waist of the gown to provide a fitted back to the garment if such is desired.", "While the fabric used in the garment may be of the same type throughout the garment, the constituents of the fabric may be selected to provide degrees of softness, stretchability, and support to the wearer's torso as desired to increase the wearer's comfort and support needs. While this invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and that it is intended to cover all changes and modifications of the invention disclosed for the purpose of illustrations which do not constitute departure from the spirit and scope of the invention." ]

[ "232246", "778014", "890614", "2624049", "2911650", "2928396", "3611439", "3746007", "4208743", "4440174", "4648404", "4781650", "4878879", "5024628", "5033986", "5103501", "5182813", "5461725", "5592692", "5611086", "5848439", "6015331", "6083079", "WO 02/30221" ]

[ { "classification_level": "A", "section": "A", "classification_class": "61", "subclass": "B", "main_group": "1", "subgroup": "00" } ]

[ "Lewis", "Grilliot", "Grilliot" ]

[ "Morning Pride Manufacturing, L.L.C." ]

[ { "claim_number": "CLM-00001", "preamble": "1. A protective garment comprising an outer shell, a liner providing an outer moisture barrier and having an outer surface facing an inner surface of the outer shell, a thermal liner having an outer surface facing an inner surface of the liner providing the outer moisture barrier, and a liner providing an inner moisture barrier and having an outer surface facing an inner surface of the thermal liner, wherein the inner moisture barrier extends from an edge of the protective garment, into the protective garment, for at least several inches from the edge and the inner and outer moisture barriers constitute means for providing a continuous moisture barrier, and wherein the liner providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner providing the inner moisture barrier are respective portions of a single liner, which is folded over the thermal liner at the edge of the protective garment.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00002", "preamble": "2. The protective garment of claim 1 , wherein the liner providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner providing the inner moisture barrier are made of similar materials and are affixed to one another, along the edge of the protective garment.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00003", "preamble": "3. The protective garment of claim 1 , wherein the liner providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner providing the inner moisture barrier are made of similar materials and are sewn to one another, along the edge of the protective garment.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00004", "preamble": "4. In a protective garment comprising an outer shell, a liner providing a conventional moisture barrier within the outer shell, and a thermal liner within the liner providing the conventional moisture barrier, an improvement wherein a liner providing an additional moisture barrier within the thermal liner is provided and wherein the additional moisture barrier extends from an edge of the protective garment, into the protective garment, for at least several inches from the edge and the inner and outer moisture barriers constitute means for providing a continuous moisture barrier, and wherein the liner providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner providing the inner moisture barrier are respective portions of a single liner, which is folded over the thermal liner at the edge of the protective garment.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00005", "preamble": "5. The improvement of claim 4 , wherein the liner providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner providing the inner moisture barrier are made of similar materials and are affixed to one another, along the edge of the protective garment.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00006", "preamble": "6. The improvement of claim 4 , wherein the liner providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner providing the inner moisture barrier are made of similar materials and are sewn to one another, along the edge of the protective garment.", "components": [] } ]

[ "This invention pertains to a protective garment, such as a protective garment for a firefighter or for an emergency worker, of a type comprising an outer shell, a liner providing a moisture barrier within the outer shell, and a thermal liner within the liner providing the moisture barrier, which thus is located between the outer shell and the thermal liner.", "In a protective garment of the type noted above, it has been known for the liner providing the moisture barrier to be inwardly folded over the thermal liner so as to form a hem, which extends for about one inch and which is sewn to the thermal liner.", "When a protective garment of the type noted above becomes wet with water reaching beyond such a hem at the distal edge of an arm of a protective coat, reaching beyond such a hem at the lower edge of a protective coat, or reaching beyond such a hem at the distal edge of a leg of a pair of protective pants, particularly if the thermal liner has a fibrous core, water can be wicked by and through the thermal liner, which can become damp, soggy, and uncomfortable to the wearer of the protective garment.", "Heretofore, as an expedient to prevent water from being wicked by and through the thermal liner, it has been known to apply a water-repellant finish, such as a Teflon™ or Scotchguard™ finish, to the inwardly facing surface of the thermal liner. U.S. Pat. No. 6,430,754 B1 discloses a firefighting garment of related interest.", "U.S. Pat. No. 4,502,153 discloses an apparel liner of related interest. The apparel liner has a first vapor barrier layer and a second vapor barrier layer, each of substantially moisture impervious material, and a layer of fibrous, thermal insulating material between the first and second vapor barrier layers.", "U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/894,187, which was filed on Jul. 19, 2004, by Alan W. Schierenbeck et al. and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, discloses a composite structure of related interest.", "As summarized in a first manner, this invention provides a protective garment comprising an outer shell, a liner providing an outer moisture barrier and having an outer surface facing an inner surface of the outer shell, a thermal liner having an outer surface facing an inner surface of the liner providing the outer moisture barrier, and a liner providing an inner moisture barrier and having an outer surface facing an inner surface of the thermal liner, wherein the inner moisture barrier extends from an edge of the protective garment, into the protective garment, for at least several inches from the edge.", "As summarized in a second manner, this invention provides in a protective garment comprising an outer shell, a liner providing a conventional moisture barrier within the outer shell, and a thermal liner within the liner providing the conventional moisture barrier, an improvement wherein a liner providing an additional moisture barrier within the thermal liner is provided and wherein the additional moisture barrier extends from an edge of the protective garment, into the protective garment, for at least several inches from the edge.", "In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the liner providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner providing the inner moisture barrier are respective portions of a single liner, which is folded at the edge of the protective garment. In an alternative embodiment of this invention, the liner providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner providing the inner moisture barrier are made of similar materials and are affixed to one another, as by being sewn, along the edge of the protective garment.", "This invention contemplates that, as contrasted with a water-repellant finish applied to a thermal liner by spraying, rolling, or dipping, the liners providing the respective moisture barriers are self-supporting sheets of a suitable neoprene or other rubber or of a suitable moisture-repellant material, which may be breathable.", "FIG. 1 is a pictorial view of a firefighter wearing protective garments, namely, a protective coat and a pair of protective pants, which garments comprise several examples of a preferred embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2, on an enlarged scale, is a sectional view, which is similar whether taken along any of lines 2A—2A, 2B—2B, and 2C—2C in FIG. 1, in a direction indicated by arrows. FIGS. 3A and 3B are similar, sectional views, which illustrate alternative embodiments of this invention.", "As illustrated in FIG. 1, a firefighter is wearing an ensemble of protective garments, which include a protective coat 10 having a lower edge 12 and having two arm sleeves 14, each having a distal edge 16, and which include a pair of protective pants 20 having two leg sleeves 24, each having a distal edge 26. The edges 12, 16, 26, are regarded as edges of the protective garment 10, 20.", "As illustrated in FIG. 2, the lower edge 12 of the protective coat 10, each of the distal edges 16 of the arm sleeves 14, and the distal edges 26 of the leg sleeves 24 has a similar construction comprising an outer shell 30, a liner 40 providing an outer moisture barrier, a thermal liner 50, and, as provided by this invention, a liner 70 providing an inner moisture barrier, which extends from the edge 12, 16, 26 of the protective garment 10, 20, into the protective garment 10, 20, for at least several inches from the edge 12, 16, 26.", "The outer shell 30 has an inner surface 32 and is made from a suitable fabric, such as a NomeX™ or Kevlar™ fabric. The liner 40 providing the outer moisture barrier is worn within the outer shell 30, has an outer surface 42 facing the inner surface 32 of the outer shell 30 and an inner surface 44, and is made from a neoprene rubber, as illustrated in FIG. 2, or from a breathable, water-repellant fabric, such as BreatheTex™ fabric. The thermal liner 50, which is worn within the liner 40 providing the outer moisture barrier, has an outer, fabric layer 52 defining an outer surface 54 of the thermal liner 50, an inner, fabric layer 56 defining an inner surface 58 of the thermal liner 50, and a fibrous fill 60 interposed between those layers 52, 56, and is quilted so as to segregate the fibrous fill 60 into discrete regions. The outer surface 54 of the thermal liner 50 faces the inner surface 44 of the liner 40 providing the outer moisture barrier.", "As provided by this invention, a liner 70 providing an inner moisture barrier and having an outer surface 72 facing the inner surface 58 of the thermal liner 50 is made from the material(s) of the liner 40 providing the outer moisture barrier. The liner 70 providing the inner moisture barrier is worn within the thermal liner 50 and extends from the edge 12, 16, 26 of the protective garment 10, 20, into the protective garment 10, 20, for at least several inches from the edge 12, 16, 26. Thus, the liner 70 providing the inner moisture barrier protects the thermal liner 50 against becoming wet from water entering the protective garment 10, 20, for at least several inches from the edge 12, 16, 26. However, where the liner 70 does not cover the inner surface 58 of the thermal liner 50, the thermal liner 50, if made from a material capable of wicking water, is able to wick sweat away from a wearer of the protective garment 10, 20.", "In the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the liner 40 providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner 70 providing the inner moisture barrier are respective portions of a single liner, which is folded over the thermal liner 50 at the edge 12, 16, 26, of the protective garment 10, 20. In the alternative embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the liner 40 providing the outer moisture barrier and the liner 70 providing the inner moisture barrier are made of similar materials and are affixed to one another, by being sewn, along the edge 12, 16, 26, of the protective garment 10, 20. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the liner 70 is folded over the thermal liner 50 so as to form a hem 80, which is sewn to the liner 40 outwardly of the outer, fabric layer 56 of the thermal liner 50. The liner 40 could be alternatively folded over the thermal liner 50 so as to form a comparable hem, which would be then sewn to the liner 70 inwardly of the inner, fabric layer 56 of the thermal liner 50." ]

[ "4114200", "4502153", "5388270", "5890226", "6336223", "6430754" ]

[ { "classification_level": "A", "section": "A", "classification_class": "62", "subclass": "B", "main_group": "17", "subgroup": "00" } ]

[ "Curtis", "Mickleson" ]

[]

[ { "claim_number": "CLM-00001", "preamble": "1. An odor removal apparatus for a toilet or lavatory, the toilet or lavatory having", "components": [ { "component": "a bowl,", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an outlet from the bowl,", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a barrier between the bowl and the outlet which substantially prevents odors from the outlet passing to the bowl,", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a gas extraction means in communication with an overflow conduit in a cistern of the toilet, the gas extraction means being in communication with the outlet, whereby operation of the gas extraction means substantially removes odors from the bowl through the overflow conduit and transfers the gases to the outlet, the gas extraction means comprising a fan means including a fan comprising an impeller in the cistern operable to induce a flow of gas and entrained odors for removal of the odors from the vicinity of the toilet or lavatory, and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "the overflow conduit having an inlet disposed higher than the fan means, whereby the fan means is immersed in water in the cistern.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00002", "preamble": "2. An odor removal apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising flow control means to prevent odors flowing from the outlet to the bowl through the gas extraction means.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00003", "preamble": "3. An odor removal apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the fan means includes a housing, a motor within the housing, said impeller being within the housing and coupled to the motor so that operation of the motor imparts rotational energy to the impeller.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00004", "preamble": "4. An odor removal apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a flow control means to substantially prevent odors flowing from the outlet to the bowl through the gas extraction means.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00005", "preamble": "5. An odor removal apparatus as claimed in claim 4 , wherein the flow control means is a one-way valve.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00006", "preamble": "6. An odor removal apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising control means to controlling the operation of said fan.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00007", "preamble": "7. An odor removal apparatus as claimed in claim 6 , wherein the control means includes flow rate selection means to allow the user to vary the rate of gas flow induced by the fan means.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00008", "preamble": "8. An odor removal apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , the fan being housed in a housing, an outlet in the housing for attachment to a gas inlet conduit, and an outlet in the housing for attachment to a gas outlet conduit.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00009", "preamble": "9. An odor removal apparatus as claimed in claim 8 , wherein the outlet conduit transfers odors from the fan to outside the toilet, through the base of the cistern.", "components": [] } ]

[ "This invention relates to odour removal apparatus and methods. In particular, the invention relates to odour removal apparatus and methods for removing gases which include undesirable odours from the vicinity of a toilet or lavatory bowl. However, the invention is not limited to this application.", "Most known methods of odour removal for toilets use a fan or the like which is mounted on an exterior wall of the room in which the toilet is located. Such extraction fans are often operated when a user enters the room in which the toilet is located and turns on a light for example. A disadvantage of this known system is that odours must leave the toilet bowl and enter the room before they can be removed from the room. Thus the system really only prevents odours escaping from the room in which the toilet is located rather than removing odours before they enter the room.", "The fan constrictions used in these known systems are also cumbersome, making them awkward and expensive to install. Furthermore, they do not have any control system that allows characteristics of the fan to be altered to improve efficiency, performance or to provide a user with a greater range of operating conditions. For example, the known systems are prone to be noisy which can be bothersome to many users and there is no provision for altering fan operating parameters, such as speed, to reduce the noise. Known fans are often left running for long periods of time, which is inefficient and reduces the life of the fan.", "Wall and ceiling fan systems typically have limited back pressure capabilities limiting the distance over which the air can be expelled. They thus typically require at least 100 mm ducting. This is very inconvenient to install.", "It is an object of the present invention to provide odour removal apparatus and/or methods which will at least go some way toward overcoming the foregoing disadvantages or other disadvantages of known constructions, or which will at least provide the public with a useful choice.", "Accordingly, in one aspect, the invention is an odour removal apparatus for a toilet, the toilet having\n\n \n \n a bowl\n an outlet from the bowl\n a barrier between the bowl and the outlet which substantially prevents odours from the outlet passing to the bowl, and\n a gases extraction means in communication with an area in the vicinity of the bowl and the outlet whereby operation of the gases extraction means substantially removes odours from the vicinity of the bowl and transfers them to the outlet.", "Preferably the gases extraction means comprises a fan means operable to induce a flow of gases and entrained odours for removal of the odours from the vicinity of a toilet.", "Preferably a flow control means is provided to substantially prevent odours flowing from the outlet to the bowl through the gases extraction means.", "Preferably the flow control means is a one way valve.", "In a further aspect the invention consists in a toilet or lavatory having\n\n \n \n a bowl\n an outlet from the bowl\n the bowl and outlet configured in use to be adapted to provide a substantially odour impermeable barrier,\n a gases delivery passageway provided in or adjacent to the bowl, and a gases receiving passageway provided in communication with the outlet.", "Preferably a gases extraction means is in communication with an area in the vicinity of the bowl and the outlet whereby operation of the gases extraction means substantially removes odours from the vicinity of the bowl and transfers them to the outlet.", "Preferably the gases extraction means comprises a fan means operable to induce a flow of gases and entrained odours for removal of the odours from the vicinity of a toilet.", "Preferably the barrier comprises a water trap.", "Preferably a flow control means is provided to substantially prevent odours flowing from the outlet to the bowl through the gases extraction means.", "Preferably the flow control means is a one way valve.", "Preferably the apparatus includes control means for controlling the operation of the fan means.", "Preferably the control means includes flow rate selection means to allow a user to vary the rate of gases flow induced by the fan means.", "Preferably the fan means includes\n\n \n \n a housing,\n a motor within the housing,\n an impeller provided within the housing and coupled to the motor so that operation of the motor imparts rotational energy to the impeller,\n an inlet provided in the housing adapted for attachment to a gas inlet conduit,\n an outlet provided in the housing adapted for attachment to a gas outlet conduit.", "Preferably the width of the housing being not substantially greater than the width of the inlet or width of the outlet.", "Alternatively the fan means includes\n\n \n \n a housing,\n a direct current motor within the housing,\n an impeller provided within the housing and coupled to the motor so that operation of the motor imparts rotational energy to the impeller,\n an inlet provided in the housing adapted for attachment to a gas inlet conduit, and\n an outlet provided in the housing adapted for attachment to a gas outlet conduit.", "In a further aspect the invention broadly consists in some odour removal apparatus for a toilet, the toilet having\n\n \n \n a bowl\n an outlet from the bowl\n a barrier between the bowl and the outlet which substantially prevents odours from the outlet passing to the bowl, and\n a gas extraction means in communication with an overflow conduit in a cistern of the toilet and the gases extraction means being in communication with the outlet, whereby operation of the gases extraction means substantially removes odours from the bowl through the overflow conduit and transfers the gases to the outlet.", "Preferably the gases extraction means comprises a fan means operable to induce a flow of gases and entrained odours for removal of the odours from the vicinity of a toilet.", "Preferably a flow control means is provided to substantially prevent odours flowing from the outlet to the bowl through the gases extraction means.", "Preferably the flow control means is a one way valve.", "In yet a further aspect the invention consists in a toilet or lavatory having\n\n \n \n a bowl\n an outlet from the bowl\n the bowl and outlet configured in use to provide a substantially odour impermeable barrier\n a gases passageway being provided between the bowl and a cistern of the toilet,\n a gases extraction means in communication with the cistern and the outlet and a gases transfer region being provided within the cistern so as to provide communication between the passageway and the gases extraction means, and\n operation of the gases extraction means substantially removing odours from the vicinity of the bowl and transferring them to the outlet.", "Preferably the gases extraction means comprises a fan means operable to induce a flow of gases and entrained odours for removal of the odours from the vicinity of a toilet.", "Preferably a flow control means is provided to substantially prevent odours flowing from the outlet to the bowl through the gases extraction means.", "Preferably the flow control means is a one way valve.", "Preferably the gases transfer region comprises a compartment within the cistern which compartment creates a seal between the passageway and the gases extraction means using the presence of water within the cistern.", "Alternatively the gases transfer region comprises the air space above the water level in the cistern.", "In a further aspect the invention consists in a toilet or lavatory having\n\n \n \n a bowl\n an outlet from the bowl\n a bowl and outlet configured in use to be adapted to provide a substantially odour impermeable barrier\n a flushing inlet to in use receive water from a cistern, and\n a gases delivery passageway provided in or adjacent to the bowl and located in a region or the bowl remote from the flushing inlet.", "Preferably a gases extraction means is in communication with the cistern and the outlet and a gases transfer region being provided within the cistern so as to provide communication between the passageway and the gases extraction means, and operation of the gases extraction means substantially removing odours from the vicinity of the bowl and transferring them to the outlet.", "Preferably the gases extraction means comprises a fan means operable to induce a flow of gases and entrained odours for removal of the odours from the vicinity of a toilet.", "Preferably a flow control means is provided to substantially prevent odours flowing from the outlet to the bowl through the gases extraction means.", "Preferably the flow control means is a one way valve.", "Preferably the passageway includes a region of sufficient dimension to include a gases extraction means therein.", "In yet a further aspect the invention consists in a toilet or lavatory having walls adapted to conceal a gases extraction fan means.", "To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.", "The invention consists of the forgoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples.", "One preferred form of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:", "One preferred form of the invention and modifications thereof will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:", "FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic side elevation in partial cross section of a toilet system including odour removal apparatus in accordance with the present invention;", "FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic side elevation in partial cross section of a practical implementation of a toilet system in accordance with FIG. 1;", "FIG. 3 is an end elevation in cross section of the cistern of FIG. 2;", "FIG. 4 is an end elevation in cross section of an alternative cistern arrangement for the cistern of FIG. 2;", "FIG. 5 is an end elevation in cross section of a further alternative sister arrangement according to the invention;", "FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a pan and cistern installation wherein the pan is designed to conceal a gases flow connection;", "FIG. 7 is a plan view of a pan having an air inlet adjacent to the rim of the pan but at the front of the pan;", "FIG. 8 is a plan view of a further arrangement of pan having an air inlet at the front of the pan;", "FIG. 9 is a side elevation in cross section of the pan substantially as shown in FIGS. 7 or 8 and including the gases extraction unit;", "FIG. 10 is a further side elevation in cross section of the toilet pan showing another gases extraction arrangement according to the invention;", "FIG. 11 is an end elevation (from the rear) of a toilet pan of FIG. 10, and", "FIG. 12 shows an end elevation of toilet pan with another gas extraction arrangement and also including side walls on the pan as also diagrammatically illustrated in FIG. 6.", "Referring to FIG. 1, a toilet or lavatory is shown generally referenced 1 having a bowl or pan construction 2 about the rim 3 of which a seat will usually be provided (not shown for clarity). The pan 2 is designed to have a water trap generally referenced 5 which provides a barrier between the central part 6 of the pan and an outlet 7 from the pan. In use, outlet 7 ends in a pan outlet 8 which will usually pass through the floor (S trap type toilet) or wall (as with P trap type toilet) of the building in which the installation is provided so as to interconnect with a sewerage system, or waste-water or septic tank for example.", "As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 2, the present invention involves removal of undesirable odours in the vicinity of the bowl 6 by use of an extraction device 15 such as a fan, and delivery of the odours to the outlet 7. Since outlet 7 is on the other side of the water trap (which acts as a gas transfer barrier), the odours are effectively removed from the environment surrounding the bowl 6. To ensure that odours cannot escape from the outlet 7 through the extraction path, some form of non-return device 21 is provided in that path, for example being provided before or after the extractor 15.", "Although vents are often provided in gaseous communication with toilet outlets, such vents have the purpose of preventing the water in the water trap from siphoning away through the outlet. The vents are not used for odour extraction purposes.", "Turning now to FIG. 2, a diagram of a possible practical implementation of the system is shown. The pan 2 is usually moulded from an appropriate material and the mould includes appropriate apertures 10, which are in fluid communication with a cistern 4. In this way liquid such as water which is in use provided in the cistern may be distributed through the apertures in order to flush the bowl 6 and ensure that water trap 5 maintains an appropriate level of liquid.", "In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, the particular toilet installation has an internal overflow conduit 11 which is in fluid communication with the flushing apertures 10 of the bowl. The overflow conduit 11 has an inlet 12 which is usually above the high water level 13 of the liquid 14 in the cistern. However, should the liquid level 13 rise to an unexpectedly high level, the liquid will enter inlet 12 and drain into the pan 6 and therefore prevent a cistern overflow situation from occurring. The provision of the inlet 12 above the usual high water level 13 of the cistern means that inlet 12 is in gaseous communication with the bowl 6.", "In FIG. 2, the existing toilet installation as described above has been modified by the inclusion of extractor fan unit 15 which has an inlet 16 that is provided above the level of inlet 12. The fan unit at 15 has an outlet 16a which passes through the base of the cistern at an aperture 17 and is connected by an appropriate tube or conduit for example 18 to the outlet 7 through an appropriate aperture or connection 19.", "Operation of the system as illustrated in FIG. 2 is as follows.", "Fan unit 15 includes any device which is capable of moving gases at an acceptable rate or vacuum. Usually, the device will include a motor such as a direct current electric motor which is capable of rotating at relatively high speeds and therefore moving a fan or other propelling device connected to the motor to create the needed vacuum at the inlet of the fan unit. This creates a negative air pressure in the vicinity of inlet 16 to the fan unit. Inlet 16 is provided within an optional housing 20 the lower edge of which is provided beneath the usual high water level 13 in the cistern. This creates a closed environment between inlet 16 to the fan and outlet 12 of the internal overflow conduit so that gases may be transferred between them. Accordingly, the vacuum created by the fan creates a negative air pressure in bowl 6 relative to the surrounding environment in the room in which the toilet is located. Therefore, a gases flow occurs from the bowl 6 through the housing 20 and into the fan unit 15. From here, the gases flow continues through outlet 16a and through the gases flow tube 18 and into the outlet 7. Since outlet 7 is provided on the side of the water trap which is opposite the bowl 6, odours are effectively transferred from the bowl to the sewerage/septic tank side of the toilet installation. In order to ensure that gases from the outlet 7 do not return to the toilet bowl 6, a non-return valve 21 is provided anywhere in the extraction flow path. In FIG. 2, a non-return device is shown provided after the outlet 16a of the fan unit, and as another alternative, before the inlet to the fan. Such a non-return device may be a known valve which is purchased from a plumbing outlet for example, or may be one which is especially designed for this installation. For example, the valve may include a diaphragm or valve member which is biased to a normally closed position by a spring or by gravity for example, but which may be opened by negative air pressure at the outlet of the fan unit 15 being created in the air pressure in the pan outlet 7. The valve is lifted off the valve seal by the negative air pressure created by the fan. Therefore, when the fan 15 is not in use, the valve will return to its normally closed position to prevent any odours travelling from the outlet 7 to the pan 6.", "Referring now to FIG. 4, the cistern is shown in end elevation. Therefore, the fan 15 may be provided at one side of the cistern (being appropriately waterproofed or otherwise provided so that the liquid in the cistern does not interfere with the motor operation) and the outlet 16 of the fan may be directed to aperture 17 which is provided in alignment with the internal overflow pipe as a convenient location for the outlet 16a to exit the cistern. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the fan inlet 16 and overflow conduit 12 do not necessarily require housing 20 to be provided over the entrance. It will be sufficient for the cistern itself to provide an appropriate housing for transfer of gases between the overflow conduit and the fan provided the cistern is sufficiently air tight.", "Also, it will be appreciated that an internal overflow pipe does not need to be used to implement the present invention. Therefore, the invention may make provision for the pan 2 to include in the moulding an appropriate cavity or cavities to include the fan and the appropriate apertures for connecting the fan between the bowl 6 and the bowl outlet 7. Therefore a wide variety of arrangements is possible. For example, a specially formed aperture in the flushing assembly, or a separate new aperture provided adjacent to the bowl may be provided and the fan could be directly connected to this aperture and the fan outlet could be connected to an appropriate connector at inlet 19 provided in outlet 7 or at a point of entry to the sewerage or septic tank system which is external of the toilet assembly, if desired.", "As another example, the end view of FIG. 4 clearly shows the inlet 19 to bowl outlet 7 as being provided in the form of a spigot or the like and a hose or other conduit providing the connection 18 between the fan outlet and the pan outlet 7. However, the connection at inlet 19 may be provided as a part of the pan moulding for example i.e. simply being a cavity provided in the appropriate place within the pan unit. Of course, a separate opening to the flushing apertures may be provided so that a conduit other than the internal overflow conduit may be provided within the cistern to connect directly to the fan inlet for example. However, the construction as described with reference to the figures in this example does provide an effective retro-fittable installation.", "The fan unit which is used to create the air flow by making an area of relatively low pressure i.e. negative pressure with respect to ambient room pressure in the vicinity of the toilet bowl is preferably an axial flow fan which uses a DC electric motor, for example a 15 volt motor. Use of a DC motor and appropriate control mechanism such as pulse width with modulation for the power supply ensures that the motor can be speed controlled to reduce unwanted noise etc if required. Also, the motor can operate at very high rotational speeds (and thus provide an enhanced airflow) since it is not limited by supply frequency as is the case with most AC motors. Of course, since an area of relatively low pressure is provided between the fan unit and the inlet (which will usually be adjacent to the room of the toilet pan or bowl), an area of relatively high pressure i.e. pressure which is greater than or positive relevant to ambient room pressure will be created between the fan and the outlet (which in the present invention comprises the waste or sewerage outlet behind the toilet water trap).", "Turning now to FIG. 5, a further arrangement in the cistern is shown which is similar to the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 2. Like reference numerals indicate like features between the different drawings. Therefore, the outlet valve 11 is shown in greater detail, and in the preferred embodiment comprises a “geberit” outlet valve which has the internal overflow 12 as described in previous embodiments. The fan unit 15 is also shown and the non-return valve 21 is shown in greater detail adjacent to the inlet to the fan unit. Again, the vacuum lid 20 is illustrated. Additional features to those shown in FIG. 2 include the inlet 30 which allows liquid to enter the cistern i.e. to refill the cistern and a flexible hose 32 from the inlet 30 which is directed to the base of the cistern in order to prevent liquid entering the cistern from flowing anywhere near the inlet to the fan unit 15.", "Turning now to FIG. 6, the cistern of FIG. 5 for example may be located on a toilet bowl or pan that has extended rear side walls 34 which substantially conceal (at least from the side) a connector which may be used to provide a connection between the outlet of the fan 15 in the cistern and a waste outlet of the toilet bowl behind the water trap. Therefore, if the installation shown in FIG. 6 is mounted in a room such that the rear wall of the cistern is adjacent to a wall, the wings 34 conceal the outlet conduit.", "Turning now to FIG. 7, a plan view of a toilet bowl or pan is shown with the cistern removed. As described previously with reference to FIG. 2, the toilet bowl or pan typically has flushing apertures about the periphery of the bowl rim. The apertures 10 are generally illustrated in FIG. 7, but it will be seen that the bowl or pan has been moulded to provide an air inlet aperture 60 which is quite separate from flushing apertures 10. Therefore, in use water in flushing apertures 10 is diverted away from the air inlet aperture 60. Also, although air inlet aperture 60 is not specifically shown as having an inlet to the body or the pan, the inlet can be more clearly shown in the side elevation in cross section of FIG. 9. The design is such that water being flushed through apertures 10 does not enter the air inlet aperture 60, but that the air inlet aperture 60 is open to the pan so as to extract odours therefrom.", "Turning now to FIG. 8, a plan view of a pan or system is again shown having an arrangement very similar to that of FIG. 7, but there is a slightly different design of air inlet in that the pan is contoured so that the air inlet aperture 60 is again separated from the flushing apertures 10, but the air inlet has extended opening regions 62 to provide a greater area of the pan periphery through which air from the bowl can enter. Therefore, improved gases extraction is anticipated using this design.", "Turning now to FIG. 9, an illustration of a pan in cross section which may be used in accordance with the air inlet illustrated in the plan views of FIGS. 7 and 8 is shown. The air inlet aperture 60 includes a cavity 66 in the front wall or the pan which leads to a further enlarged concealed cavity 68 in the front of the pan unit. The fan unit 15 has an inlet which engages with cavity 66 and the fan unit itself is provided within cavity 68. The outlet from the fan has a one way air valve 70 to prevent odours escaping from behind the water trap. Further conduit 72 is provided within the pan moulding to allow gases flow between the one way valve 70 and the waste outlet of the pan behind the water trap.", "Turning now to FIG. 10, another toilet bowl or pan construction is shown in cross section having a moulded extraction cavity 80 from the rear of the pan which provides an inlet to which fan unit 15 is connected and concealed, and the waste outlet of the pan has a moulded aperture 82 to which the outlet of the fan unit 15 is connected to delivery the waste gases to the area behind the water trap. A one way air valve 70 should be situated somewhere between cavity 80 and aperture 82.", "Turning to FIG. 11 a rear elevation of the construction illustrated in FIG. 10 is shown. The one way air valve 70 is needed on either side of the fan to prevent reverse circulation.", "In FIG. 12, a vertical orientation of the fan unit (as opposed to a horizontal orientation shown in FIG. 11) is shown. This is similar to the construction illustrated in FIG. 6 however rather than the fan unit 15 being provided within the cistern, the fan is provided axially within the air extraction conduit and is concealed between side walls 34.", "Therefore, from the foregoing, it will be seen that a very effective odour removal installation is achievable with this invention. In particular, the use of the water trap in the toilet as a barrier to prevent odours is highly desirable. Usually, fan installations and the like simply remove odours from the room in which the toilet installation is located and expel them to another location, such as out of the building or into a wall or ceiling cavity. The present invention provides a significant advantage that the sewerage system behind the toilet water trap, which contains foul odours in any case, is used as a disposal point for the odours in or surrounding the toilet bowl. The advantages are that; firstly odours immediately adjacent the bowl are removed before they enter the room in which the toilet is located; and secondly the odours are easily disposed of without the necessity of making further holes in the room in which the installation is located in order to deliver the odours to a location remote from the room.", "Therefore, the invention provides for drawing air or gas and entrained odours from the toilet bowl/pan and discharging them to the outlet side of the toilet bowl/or pan water trap. The conveyance of the odours may be through the cistern via air ways, for example the internal overflow pipe, or through other passages such as waterways, or airways or any appropriate spaces that will bypass the cistern and/or the flush pipe and be delivered to the side of the toilet bowl pan which is on the sewerage side of the water trap. The delivery mechanism includes some form of gas extraction means such as a fan and may be implemented using hosing, tube or pipe or through appropriate spaces in the overall pan/cistern assembly. It will be seen that the extraction means may be a fan, or pulsing cistern, or pump, being mechanically operated or otherwise. The effect of making a negative air pressure within or adjacent to a toilet bowl means that the odours do not escape the toilet bowl into the room. We have found that the outlet from the fan or extraction means does not need to be connected immediately to the outlet of the bowl on the other side of the water trap, but can be connected to quite a remote area from the water trap, for example anywhere in the septic waste. In the preferred embodiment of the invention a non return valve is provided, but will be seen that other means of preventing reverse gases flowing may be employed. For example, an anti-siphon valve or similar may be used, or the fan may be operated continuously.", "Finally it will be appreciated that various other alterations may be made to the foregoing without departing from the scope of this invention as set forth in the appended claims.", "Throughout the description and claims of this specification the word “comprise” and variation of that word, such as “comprises” and “comprising”, are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps." ]

[ "2297935", "2985890", "3524415", "3649972", "3938201", "4133060", "4365361", "4800596", "4864664", "5044018", "5257421", "6370703", "2 096 662", "2 184 140", "2 347 691" ]

[ { "classification_level": "A", "section": "E", "classification_class": "03", "subclass": "D", "main_group": "9", "subgroup": "04" } ]

[ "Larson" ]

[]

[ { "claim_number": "CLM-00001", "preamble": "1. A toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "a flexible shaft extending from connection with a toilet seat, said shaft having an axis extending substantially parallel to a bottom surface of said toilet seat;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a handle extending from an end of said flexible shaft, wherein the flexibility of said flexible shaft is such that manipulation of said handle causes said flexible shaft to flex relative to said axis; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "shaft limiting means for limiting the flexing of said flexible shaft in an intended direction off of said axis so that force applied to said flexible shaft to flex said flexible shaft in said intended direction is transferred to lift said toilet seat, and force applied to said flexible shaft in non-intended directions causes the deflection of said flexible shaft off said axis.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00002", "preamble": "2. The toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device of claim 1 , wherein said shaft limiting means comprises:", "components": [ { "component": "a flange extending upwardly from an end of said flexible shaft opposite said handle, said flange extending in close proximity to a side wall of said toilet seat; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a buttress extending from said flange in a direction away from said side wall, said handle having a contact end in close proximity to said butress, wherein force applied upwardly on said handle flexes said flexible shaft upwardly and said contact end of said handle contacts said buttress and said flange contacts said side wall of said toilet seat thereby limiting the flexing of said flexible shaft and transferring the upward force to said toilet seat to lift the same.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00003", "preamble": "3. The toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device of claim 2 , wherein said flange includes a protuberance extending toward said side wall, said protuberance contacting said side wall during the application of upward force on said handle.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00004", "preamble": "4. The toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device of claim 1 , wherein said shaft limiting means comprises:", "components": [ { "component": "a flange extending upwardly from an end of said flexible shaft opposite said handle, said flange extending in close proximity to a side wall of said toilet seat; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "an extension of said handle extending over said flexible shaft and ending at a contact end in close proximity to said flange, wherein force applied upwardly on said handle flexes said flexible shaft upwardly and said contact end of said handle contacts said flange, forcing said flange into said side wall of said toilet seat, thereby limiting the flexing of said flexible shaft and transferring the upward force to said toilet seat to lift the same.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00005", "preamble": "5. The toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device of claim 4 , wherein said flange includes a protuberance extending toward said side wall, said protuberance contacting said side wall during the application of upward force on said handle.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00006", "preamble": "6. The toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device of claim 1 , wherein said flexible shaft is secured underneath said toilet seat at an end of said flexible shaft opposite said handle, and said flexible shaft extends out from underneath said toilet to connection with said handle at a contact end of said handle, said contact end extending upwardly in close proximity to a side wall of said toilet, wherein force applied upwardly on said handle flexes said flexible shaft upwardly and said contact end of said handle contacts said side wall of said toilet seat, thereby limiting the flexing of said flexible shaft and transferring the upward force to said toilet seat to lift the same.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00007", "preamble": "7. The toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device of claim 6 , wherein said flange includes a protuberance extending toward said side wall, said protuberance contacting said side wall during the application of upward force on said handle.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00008", "preamble": "8. The toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device of claim 1 , further comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "a mounting surface secured to said bottom surface of said toilet seat;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a flange extending upwardly from said mounting surface in close proximity to said side wall of said toilet, wherein said flexible shaft extends between said flange and said handle;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a lip extending downwardly from said mounting surface;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a catch shaft extending from said handle beneath said flexible shaft, said catch shaft ending in a catch extending upwardly in registration with said lip such that force applied upwardly on said handle flexes said flexible shaft upwardly and brings said catch into contact with said lip, thereby limiting the upward flexing of said flexible shaft and transferring the upward force to said toilet seat to lift the same.", "subcomponents": [] } ] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00009", "preamble": "9. The toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device of claim 1 , wherein said handle extends from said flexible shaft along an axis substantially parallel to said axis of said flexible shaft and provides a contact surface that tapers from a wider diameter at the ends of said handle to a smaller diameter at the middle of said handle, such that, as said handle is manipulated and said flexible shaft flexes in said intended direction the taper of said handle maintains the contact surface of the handle in an orientation that accommodates continued manipulation in said intended direction.", "components": [] }, { "claim_number": "CLM-00010", "preamble": "10. A toilet seat and toilet seat repositioning device comprising:", "components": [ { "component": "a flexible shaft extending from connection with a toilet seat, said shaft having an axis extending substantially parallel to a bottom surface of said toilet seat;", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "a handle extending from said flexible shaft along an axis substantially parallel to said axis of said flexible shaft and providing a contact surface that tapers from a wider diameter at the ends of said handle to a smaller diameter at the middle of said handle, wherein the flexibility of said flexible shaft is such that manipulation of said handle in a direction off of its axis causes said flexible shaft to flex relative to its axis, and the taper of said handle maintains the contact surface of the handle in an orientation that accommodates continued manipulation in said direction; and", "subcomponents": [] }, { "component": "shaft limiting means for limiting the flexing of said flexible shaft in an intended direction off of said axis so that force applied to said flexible shaft to flex said flexible shaft in said intended direction is transferred to said toilet seat to lift the same, and force applied to said flexible shaft in non-intended directions is transferred to flex said flexible shaft off said axis.", "subcomponents": [] } ] } ]

[ "This application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/496,823 filed Aug. 21, 2003.", "Not Applicable", "Not Applicable", "1. Field of Invention", "This invention relates to devices designed to assist in repositioning toilet seats.", "2. Background of the Invention", "This invention category deals with the historically repugnant action of having to reposition the seat of a toilet from down to up or vice versa. Over many decades patents have been sought for a wide variety of devices seeking to create relief from the distressing manual contact with the surface of the seat and/or bowl that occurs when repositioning takes place. We will herein exclude discussion of the preposterously complex apparatuses of levers and pedals and pulleys and cables and cams and gears and explore, instead, some attempts at simple solutions that, in a thorough examination, have inherent, glaring shortcomings.", "Way back in 1935 G. F. Adams envisioned and designed an esthetically pleasing ‘metal stamping’. Today, with the proliferation of both vandalism and injury lawsuits, use of such a device would be disasterous. (U.S. Pat. No. 1,999,555).", "Charles C. Sims (1991, U.S. Pat. No. 5,058,215) patented a ‘rigid planar Y-shaped member’ that would adhesively attach to the underside of the seat with the upper part of the ‘Y’ straddling one of the bumpers and the lower part of the ‘Y’ extending beyond the peripheral edge of the seat. It would seem that this design, too, would invite lawsuits and vandalous destruction.", "There is a variety of concepts of what could be called plate-like protuberances that attach to the bottom of the seat and extend beyond the outer edge.", "The Mantooth (U.S. Pat. No. 3,717,884) idea is an oval plate with an outer ridge to aid in gripping; flexibility is not addressed. The Giallourakis disk (U.S. Pat. No. 4,742,582) and the later Giallourakis loop (U.S. Pat. No. 4,920,586) are both ‘thin, rigid member's. Gibson and McNutt (U.S. Pat. No. 4,850,062) foresaw the need to ‘substantially reduce the likelihood of abrasive contact with the skin’ by designing a rotating wheel to attach to the bottom of the seat. Herein we have, seemingly, some relief from possible injury, a modicum of prevention of damage from vandalism, but virtually no relief from contact with the vile soiling of the underside of the seat as the majority of the disc is under the seat and subject to contamination from the aerosol action of flushing. Its rotation merely allows for the delivery of foulness to the hand of the user. A Hazard patent (U.S. Pat. No. 5,553,332) was for a round disk projection that ‘is flexible so that upon coming into contact with the leg of a person when using the seat, the handle portion yields to the contact.’ Introspection of this embodiment yields at least 3 shortcomings: First, due to the large horizontal cross-section, this device will need to twist to flex when lateral force is applied thereby abrading the ‘leg of a person’. Secondly, due to its thin ‘planar surface’ it would require a firm grip to lift a heavy seat; especially since the handle is designed to flex in the direction of lift. This would probably exclude use by women or children. Compound this difficulty with the accumulation of oils on the surface of the handle from the hands of users and loss of grasp of even the strongest grip would seem likely and, potentially, very dangerous. Thirdly, when the toilet seat is in the vertical position and needs to be lowered it would seem to be immensely difficult for a person of short stature to reach and grasp the handle using either the thumb on top method or a thumb on bottom method.", "Hazard had previously prescribe a solution to our dilemma under U.S. Pat. No. 4,875,251 wherein a simple cylindrical handle provided adequate relief from contact with the seat. The Preferred Embodiment is characterized as having ‘some degree of resilience’ but yet ‘rigid’. If mounted with the suggested screw fastener the design would appear to have the inherent ability to swing away horizontally (in the seat down position) from contact. However, this is neither mentioned as a feature nor, apparently, envisioned as it is stated that the means of attachment should be an adhesive ‘preferrably’.", "Vincent P. Cusenza (U.S. Pat. No. 5,341,519) aptly described the solution as a ‘flexible handle which is connected to the toilet seat in such a way that the toilet seat may be lifted without requiring a person to come in contact with the toilet seat itself and is also constructed in such a way as to provide a more durable lift handle which even if subjected to abuse will not break off and therefore provide long term life.’ This successful synopsis of a solution did not seemingly assist in a successful solution. This patent is for a spring loaded flexible tube that requires boring a hole through the toilet seat from its outer circumference to its inner circumference and inserting the tube. This would seem to be a very difficult and very impractical endeavor.", "It was my objective in creating my device that numerous criteria be met:\n\n \n \n 1) It must provide total relief from contact with the toilet seat and/or bowl rim.\n 2) It must function well and with ease in the repositioning of the toilet seat.\n 3) It must have enough flexibility to reduce or eliminate injury from accidental contact by a person.\n 4) It must have enough resiliency to nullify damage to itself and/or the toilet seat from intentional contact by a person (vandalism, etc.).\n 5) It must be easilly afixed to the seat.\n 6) It must be attachable and functional on virtually any toilet seat.", "Accordingly, the handle of my invention extends well beyond the periphery of the seat and is of an hourglass configuration; greater circumferences at either end than in the middle. This allows the user to merely hook a finger or two around the handle to conduct the repositioning instead of having to effect a strong grasp. The shape offsets forces that would cause the manual contact from slipping off one end of the handle or the other. Preferably constructed of a semi-flexible plastic in one piece (although it could be constructed from individual components), and attached to the toilet seat using a double-sided foam adhesive tape this invention would be very easily fitted to the seat by virtually anyone. The thin flexible mounting surface could conform to contours present on the underside of some toilet seats. Extending from the planar mounting surface is a flange or wall to which the handle shaft is attached. On the opposite side of this wall is a snubbing protuberance. This assures contact of this wall to virtually any type of toilet seat whether it be very thin, thick with a vertical outer radius wall or thick with an outer seat wall that is slanted. Contact between the flange and the seat stiffens the flange and supports it while under load. Although contact is not necessary, it is preferred to assure optimal functioning. This feature makes this device adaptable to virtually any seat.", "However the salient feature of my invention is its ability to exhibit stiffness in an aspect necessary to engage a loading and to exhibit flex in other aspects to thwart injury or vandalism to the device and/or seat of the toilet. This was accomplished by creating restrictive features in the device that impede the motion of flexing in desired directions while allowing freedom of motion in others. Specifically, when the seat is in the horizontal or down position the handle and shaft are allowed to flex or move in either horizontal direction or any downward direction.", "This device not only meets the need for relief from the distressing contact with a toilet bowl or seat when repositioning but does so via a simple retrofitting on virtually any seat and with an inherent measure of safety and resistence to intentional damage never before envisioned or accomplished. This provides the potential for use in situations never before possible (public buildings, restaurants, hospitals, schools, et al.) where the presence of such a device would be most welcome. Of course, this makes it ideal for domestic use, as well.", "Further objects and advantages of my invention will become apparent from an examination of the drawings and ensuing descriptions.", "I am requesting a utility patent for a toilet seat repositioning handle of my unique design which allows movement of the handle portion in a direction(s) while restricting movement in another specified direction(s) via contact with a detent(s) whether intrinsic or external. The unique handle configuration (narrower in the middle circumference than at one or both ends) allows for secure manipulation.", "FIG. 1A shows a perspective view, detached", "FIG. 1B shows a side view as attached to a toilet seat", "FIG. 2 shows a side view of a different embodiment", "FIG. 3 shows a side view of a different embodiment", "FIG. 4 shows a side view of a different embodiment", "FIG. 5 shows a side view of a different embodiment", "REFERENCE NUMERALS\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n10 - mounting surface\n 70 - adhesive\n\n\n\n20 - flange\n100 - toilet seat (cross section)\n\n\n\n30 - shaft\n110 - seat bumper pad\n\n\n\n40 - handle\n\n\n\n50 - buttress\n\n\n\n60 - detent", "To assist your comprehension of this description it should be pointed out that FIG. 1A is only minorly different than Embodiment 1B (note the presence of a reinforcing shoulder at the outside angle of the conjunction of the mounting surface 10 and the flange 20) on FIG. 1A).", "In its Preferred Embodiment, my device has a planar mounting surface 10 for securing it to the bottom surface of a toilet seat via adhesive or mechanical fastener. Conjoined to said mounting surface 10 at or near an edge is a flange 20 which extends at an angle approximately perpendicular. From said flange 20 extends a shaft 30 at an approximately perpendicular angle. At the end of the shaft 30 is a handle 40. The handle 40 configuration can best be described as hourglass shaped; cylindrical with a taper from each end toward the middle so that the circumference at the midpoint is smaller than at either end. From above said shaft 30 location on the flange 20 is a buttress 50 which extends from the flange 20 to a juxtaposed position to the contact end 42 of the handle 40 that is closest to the flange 20. The aspect of the flange 20 facing the toilet seat 100 has a detent 60 protuberance of a hemispherical shape.", "In its Preferred Embodiment this device is to be molded of a mildly flexible plastic material. It is important to understand that plastics of a specific flexibility coefficient will exhibit more flexibility in a thin dimension than in a thick dimension; and conversely. This invention utilizes this characteristic of plastics to enhance flexibility in certain areas by using small dimensions and diminishing flexibility in other areas by using thicker dimensions and further diminishing flexibility and movement by borrowing rigidity from adjacent surfaces.", "A relatively thin mounting surface 10 is utilized so that it may conform with non-planar surfaces on the underside of some toilet seats when adhesively attached using a foam double-stick tape. Said mounting surface 10 will gain rigidity from the surface to which it is attached thereby providing a secure mount. The flange 20 is designed to connect the handle shaft 30 and buttress 50 to the mounting surface 10 in secure manner. It is therefore molded more thickly and the area of contiguity is reinforced via a thickening radius or shoulder on the outside angle to provide strength. The aspect of the flange 20 facing away from the shaft 30 and buttress 50 and toward the toilet seat 100 has a protruding detent 60 of a hemispherical shape or elongated to a hemiprolate shape. It is the purpose of this detent 60 to contact the peripheral edge of the toilet seat 100 and annul any reactive motion of the flange 20 due to an upward loading of the handle 40 and shaft 30 that would be transferred to the buttress 50. If, due to a peculiar shape of the toilet seat, the detent 60 does not contact the toilet seat 100 support from the seat may still transfer to the flange 20. If not this device is still designed to function but with a slight deflection due to loading of the flange 20 and therefore also the shaft 30 and handle 40.", "The handle 40 has been specifically designed to provide a secure connection between the user and the device even during deflection. This was accomplished by creating larger diameter plate-like flanges on the ends of the smaller diameter cylindrical central portion of the handle 40 and adding a generous chamfer at their conjoining.", "With this device secured to the bottom of the toilet seat on a side and toward the front (approximately 4 o'clock or 8 o'clock positions when facing the toilet seat) and with the seat in the horizontal position the user would merely loop a finger or fingers around the handle 40 and apply a lifting force. The handle 40 of this device FIG. 1A is designed to flex approximately 30 degrees to reduce/eliminate injury from accidental contact and thwart damage to itself or the toilet seat from intentional contact. Therefore, under lifting load the shaft 30 and handle 40 will begin to deflect until the contact end 42 contacts the buttress 50. This contact both prevents the handle 40 from moving any further upwardly and nullifies any further shaft 30 flex. As the seat 100 moves upward and radially on its hinge the loading from the weight of the seat will begin to transfer from the device FIG. 1B to the seat hinge thereby reducing the amount of deflection in the shaft 30 and lessening to the eventual point of elimination the contact force between the buttress 50 and the shaft 30 and handle 40. The shaft 30 will be able to flex in other directions; the handle 40 design prevents user contact diminishment. When repositioning seat to horizontal or down position all actions work in reverse.", "When the seat is in the vertical or up position the device FIG. 1B is up and out of the way. When the seat rests in the horizontal or down position vandals can kick the handle 40 and it will deflect unrestrained in either horizontal direction or in any downward direction. Persons who accidentally contact the handle 40 will be spared injury of any consequence due to the flexing action.", "FIG. 2 shows an alteration of the buttress 50. This configuration will create no snubbing action to the shaft 30 but does annul movement from flexing of the handle 40.", "FIG. 3 displays means of elongating shaft 30 (to create more flex motion or to be able to work with a material of lower flexibility coefficient) without expanding over all dimensions. Functions same as Preferred Embodiment in that it retards movement of both the handle 40 and the shaft 30 in an upward direction due to the interaction of flange 50 and the contact end 42 of the extension 44 of handle 40.", "FIG. 4 depicts a variation wherein a shaft 30 and handle 40 and a seat bumper pad 110 are molded as one piece and fitted to the bottom of a toilet seat 100 at the point of manufacture. This eliminates the need for a mounting surface 10 or a flange 20. It produces the double buffering action of restricting both the handle 40 and the shaft 30. Shaft 30/handle 40 motion can occur in either direction horizontally or in any direction downwardly. Upward motion is limited by the contact end 42 engaging the side wall of the toilet seat. The shaft 30 as depicted could be either cylindrical as in other embodiments or hemi-cylindrical as depicted to fit flushly to underside of toilet seat 100.", "FIG. 5 embodiment shows the buttress 50 as a catch shaft extending from the handle 40 to a position under the flange 20. From under the flange 20 extends a lip 46 configured to act as a cleat. At the end of the buttress 50 catch shaft is a catch 48 opposal to the lip 46. When an upward force is applied to the handle 40 the catch 48 will engage lip 46 which will annul any further upward movement of the handle 40. As in other designs lateral or downward motion is mechanically unimpeded. This embodiment produces restraint of movement via a pulling action rather than through compression.", "In “Background of the Invention” 6 criteria were declared as being requirements of an invention to perform adequately (and be marketable; if they can't be manufactured and marketed they can't be used!). No previous invention, in my estimation even remotely satisfied more than 4 criteria; many only 2 or 3. The conceptualization herein meets easily all 6 requirements.", "The first criterion proposed total relief from the dreadful contact with the toilet seat or bowl rim. This was accomplished by designing a handle that both extends away from the repugnant surfaces and prevents the users grasp from slipping.", "The second criterion insisted on ease of use. The unique design of the handle allows the user to merely hook one or two fingers around the handle to lift it. Gripping, grasping, lifting with your shoe are all unnecessary.", "Criteria 3 and 4 proposed that the device thwart injury or damage to itself and/or the seat due to contact, accidental or intentional. As has been demonstrated in previous sections this invention allows handle deflection laterally and in any downward direction due to its ingenious design to assure that these criteria are met. Equally ingenious is the motion anullment feature which accepts force in the lifting/lowering directions.", "Criteria 5 and 6 demanded that the lifting handle be easily afixed to virtually any toilet seat. With its thin mounting surface and using a double-sided foam adhesive tape this totally unique invention can easily and quickly be mounted to plastic seats, wooden seats, thick seats, thin seats, seats with bumper pads, or seats without. Even vinyl covered foam seats!", "This device clearly exhibits manifest advantages over any previous invention of its kind. For once there is a complete product that can be offered to the public for use in their homes. And a product that can be used in commercial applications (schools, hospitals, public buildings of all kinds, restaurants, et al.) where the presence of such a device would be most welcome.", "As this invention may be embodied in a wide range of forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof, the depicted embodiments are therefore illustrative and not restrictive, and since the scope of the invention is defined by the claims, all alterations that fall within the metes and bounds of the claims or that form their functional as well as conjointly cooperative equivalents are therefore intended to be embraced by those claims." ]

[ "5065460", "5341519", "5375267", "5619758", "5727258", "5729839", "6415454" ]

[ { "classification_level": "A", "section": "A", "classification_class": "47", "subclass": "K", "main_group": "13", "subgroup": "10" } ]

[ "Shaumyan" ]

[]

[{"claim_number":"CLM-00001","preamble":"1. A device for providing a working surface while a user is(...TRUNCATED)

["Not Applicable.","Not Applicable.","Not Applicable.","1. Technical Field","This invention relates (...TRUNCATED)

["2243264","3090051","3209375","4098486","4602759","4825779","5329645","D368819","5526943","5687431"(...TRUNCATED)

[{"classification_level":"A","section":"E","classification_class":"03","subclass":"D","main_group":"(...TRUNCATED)

[ "Jannetides" ]

[ "J Squared, Inc." ]

[{"claim_number":"CLM-00001","preamble":"1. A bed rail and bed end assembly for a multiple bed unit,(...TRUNCATED)

["This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/463,459, filed A(...TRUNCATED)

[ "3011180", "3316564", "4109328", "4232411", "5572751", "6018829", "6292959", "6349435", "6568001" ]

[{"classification_level":"A","section":"A","classification_class":"47","subclass":"C","main_group":"(...TRUNCATED)

[ "Snyder", "Loewenthal", "Spriegel", "Goertzen", "Puckett" ]

[ "Invacare Corporation" ]

[{"claim_number":"CLM-00001","preamble":"1. An adjustable bed for use on a floor, said bed comprisin(...TRUNCATED)

["The present invention relates to an adjustable bed. In particular, the present invention relates t(...TRUNCATED)

["2522759","3015113","3105246","4846011","5134731","5685035","5713091","5802639","5964347","6000077"(...TRUNCATED)

[{"classification_level":"A","section":"A","classification_class":"61","subclass":"G","main_group":"(...TRUNCATED)

[ "Hernández" ]

[]

[{"claim_number":"CLM-00001","preamble":"1. A system for allowing access to, and egress from, a chil(...TRUNCATED)

["1. Field of the Invention","The present invention relates generally to furniture and furnishings f(...TRUNCATED)

["329663","2059240","2897781","3122127","3618568","3797461","D249403","4178645","4220119","4359793",(...TRUNCATED)

[{"classification_level":"A","section":"A","classification_class":"47","subclass":"D","main_group":"(...TRUNCATED)