REVERSIBLE STORAGE VISOR, CAP AND SUN HAT

Abstract

A two-sided, reversible storage sun visor, reversible storage cap, and a reversible storage sun hat, each featuring retaining straps on the crown to secure a pair of glasses, when not in use, and an elastic headband or elastic storage panel for versatile fitment. The bill of the reversible sun visor and the reversible hat is constructed from durable materials that retain theft original shape and thus may be folded, crumpled, and washed without any permanent distortion to the bill. The elastic panel may be formed as a pocket for storage that can be securely closed. When the reversible sun storage visor, reversible storage hat, or reversible storage sun hat are reversed, the pocket will remain in an upright orientation.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Continuation in Part of, and claims the benefit of priority to, the U.S. patent application for “Reversible Sun Visor,” Ser. No. 13/766,737, filed on Feb. 13, 2013, currently co-pending, which in turn claims priority to the U.S. patent application for “Sun Visor Hat,” Ser. No. 13/401,532, filed on Feb. 21, 2012 now abandoned.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The terms headgear, headwear, or headdress, date back to ancient times, and are the names given to an element of clothing worn on one's head for a variety of purposes. Some of these purposes might be protection against cold, heat, or rain, fashion and decoration, religious use, medical use, or even for disguise efforts and social reasons.

2. Discussion of the Prior Art

Bonnets, as worn by women and girls, were hats worn out doors which were secured by tying under the chin and were often designed with some type of peak or visor. Bonnets worn by men and boys are generally disfurnished from hats by being soft and having no brim.

Caps are generally soft and often have no brim or just a peak (like on a baseball cap). For many centuries women wore a variety of head-coverings which were called caps. For example, in the 18th and 19th centuries a cap was a kind of head covering made of a flimsy fabric; it was worn indoors or under a bonnet by married women, or older unmarried women.

A fillet or circlet is a round band worn around the head and over the hair. Elaborate and costly versions eventually evolved into crowns, but fillets could be made from woven bands of fabric, leather, beads or metal. Fillets are unisex, and are especially prevalent in archaic to renaissance dress.

Hair covers, such as helmets, are used to prevent loose hair from contaminating food or work areas. A snood is a net or fabric bag pinned or tied on at the back of a woman's head for holding the hair. Scarves are used to protect styled hair or keep it tidy. Shower caps and swim caps prevent hair from becoming wet or entangled during activity.

Hats often have a brim all the way around the rim, and may be either placed on the head, or secured with hat-pins (which are pushed through the hat and the hair). Depending on the type of hat, they may be properly worn by men, by women or by both sexes.

Modern hoods are generally soft head coverings which are an integral part of a larger garment, like an overcoat, shirt or cloak. Historically, hoods were either similar to modern hoods, or a separate form of headgear. In medieval Europe hoods with short capes, were extremely common, and later evolved into elaborate and adaptable hats.

Women's hoods varied from close-fitting, soft headgear to stiffened, structured hoods or very large coverings made of material over a frame which fashionable women wore over towering wigs or hairstyles to protect them from the elements.

The most common purpose of headgear is for protection. The most common use of headgear is as protection for the head and eyes. A baseball cap is used by sports players to keep the sun out of theft eyes, and by some chefs to keep the haft out of their food. Traditionally, silk chefs hats are used for this purpose. A rain hat has a wide rim to keep the rain out of the wearer's face. Some traditional types of hat like the Mexican sombrero also serve this purpose.

There are also the full ranges of helmets. There are also hats that are worn for protection from the cold. These include many varieties of fur hats.

Headgear is also an article of fashion. The formal man's black silk top hat was formerly an indispensable portion of the suit, and women's hats have, over the years, attained a fantastic number of shapes. These showpiece creations were created more as works of art than as practical items of fashion, and may be worth thousands or millions of dollars. The hat as an article of formal wear has fallen out of fashion, though some kinds of hats other than baseball caps may be included in young people's subculture fashions.

Some headgear is known for its religious significance and worn for religious practice. Observant Jewish men wear, small cloth skull-caps, called yarmulke, because they believe the head should be covered in the presence of God. Some Jewish men wear the religious headwear at all times, others in the synagogue, Married Jewish women wear a headscarf.

Similar to the Jewish headgear, religious head garments are worn by Roman Catholic clergy. Male Sikhs are required to wear turbans.

In Islam, the headscarf is worn by women because it is considered modest. Muslim men also wear a skullcap. Until more recent times, men in most Muslim societies were rarely seen without headdress of some sort.

The black satin pillbox-shaped skullcap is worn by the Buddhist priests in China. In earlier times, it was a very saucer-shaped, cap.

Switzerland is home to the Cup-and-Ring skullcap, a straw cap with embroidered flowers, a small pompom in the center, and velvet strips sewn round it in rings. This cap was traditionally worn by shepherds for luck and married men (for fertility).

Headgear such as crowns and tiaras are worn in recognition of noble status especially among royalty. Wigs are worn traditionally by judges and barristers of Commonwealth nations. Feathered headpieces are worn by various Native North American and South American indigenous peoples.

A bandana is a type of large, usually colorful, kerchief, usually worn on the head or around the neck of a person or pet and is not considered to be a hat. Bandanas are frequently printed in many patterns. Bandanas are most often used to hold hair back, either as a fashionable head accessory, or for practical purposes.

In light of the above, it would be advantageous to provide a durable single piece head garment that is stretchable, collapsible, foldable, reversible, printable, washable, and adaptable to any persons head.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a versatile piece of headgear styled as a sun visor, cap or sun hat, incorporating the many attractive qualities of ball cap-style hat with the utility and convenience of durable materials and elastic storage pockets.

The present invention is formed of two layers, each having the appearance of a finished piece of headgear, such as a sun visor or ball cap. As most hats are formed, the present invention has a crown, and a bill in the case of a sun visor or cap and a brim in the case of the sun hat. If styled as a ball cap or sun hat, the crown covers the top of the head. The present invention however, mates the back of the two layers creating a reversible embodiment.

A portion of foam rubber, such as neoprene, is sandwiched between the two layers of the bill providing some shape to the bill in use. Pliable plastic may also be used in lieu of foam rubber. The strap or crown is formed of durable fabrics and elastics providing a secure and comfortable fit for nearly any sized head.

The present invention further incorporates one or more pockets in the elastic allowing for the storage of various items, such as keys, credit cards or currency.

The present invention may also incorporate integral fabric loops on the temple portion of the head strap or crown for securing a pair of glasses when not worn by the user.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The nature, objects, and advantages of the accessory for the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the following detailed description in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate like parts throughout, and wherein:

FIG. 1a is a plan view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, formed as a reversible sun visor, showing the bill, the crown, elastic strap, sunglass retaining loops, and the interaction of each of the various parts shown in a first configuration;

FIG. 1b is a plan view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, formed as a reversible sun visor, showing the bill, the crown, elastic strap, sunglass retaining loops, and the interaction of each of the various parts shown reversed into a second configuration;

FIG. 2 is a right side view of the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1a showing the right side of the crown, elastic strap, bill, and the sunglass retaining loop;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1a, showing the crown with a printed image on it, the bill, and the sunglass retaining loops formed into the temples of both sides of the invention;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1a, showing the bill, the crown with a printed image on it, the elastic strap, and a pair of sunglasses secured by the sunglass retaining loops of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a close-up depiction a preferred embodiment of the sunglass retaining loops of the reversible sun visor of the present invention, showing one of the four loops affixed to the temple portion of the sun visor;

FIG. 6 is a close-up depiction a preferred embodiment of the sunglass retaining loops of the reversible sun visor of the present invention, showing one of the two loops that is passed through the crown of the visor and affixed to the crown, each half of the loop creating a sunglass retaining loop on both sides of the crown;

FIG. 7 is a cross section taken along the line 7-7 from FIG. 1, showing the layered construction of the bill, including the inner layer, sandwiched between the first outer later and the second outer later;

FIG. 8 is a right side view of the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, showing the head strap partially formed of an elastic material; and

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, formed as a reversible ball cap, showing the crown, bill, and sunglass retaining loops, and with interior features shown in dashed lines.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment shows the elastic portion formed as a closable pocket that allows for storage.

FIG. 11 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, showing a reversible visor as in FIG. 10 equipped with an elastic portion formed as a closable pocket that allows for storage.

FIG. 12 is a top view of the elastic portion of the embodiment in FIG. 10 along the line 12-12 showing the pocket formed in the elastic portion and a means for securing the pocket closed.

FIG. 13 is a cross section view taken along line 13-13 from FIG. 11 showing the construction of an elastic portion formed with a pocket. A key is shown in the pocket. The pocket is shown in the open position.

FIG. 14 is a side view of another alternative embodiment of the present invention formed as a reversible storage ball cap, showing the crown, bill, and sunglass retaining loops and storage pocket.

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of another alternative embodiment of the present invention formed as a reversible storage sun hat, showing the crown, brim, sunglass retaining loops and storage pocket.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring initially to FIG. 1a, a plan view of a preferred embodiment of the reversible sun visor of the present invention is shown in a first configuration and generally labeled 100. A bill 102 is affixed to a crown 104 which is in turn affixed to a head strap 106. The head strap 106 has a first end 111 and a second end 109. In a preferred embodiment, the first end 111 of head strap 106 is affixed to a right temple 108 and the second end 109 of head strap 106 is affixed to a left temple 110 of the crown 104, resulting in a circular shaped reversible sun visor 100 generally sized to fit around a human head. The bill 102 is affixed to the crown 104 at a seam 118.

In the first configuration, the bill 102, crown 104 and head strap 106 generally have an interior 101 and an exterior 103. A first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 is affixed to the exterior 103 of the crown 104 near the right temple 108. Similarly, a second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114 is affixed to the exterior 103 of the crown 104 near the left temple 110. In a preferred embodiment, a first interior sunglass retaining loop 113 is affixed to the interior 101 of the crown 104 near the right temple 108 and a second interior sunglass retaining loop 115 is affixed to the interior 101 of the crown 104 near the left temple 110.

The interior 101 and the exterior 103 of reversible sun visor 100 are functionally identical allowing the user to reverse the wear of the reversible sun visor 100 as desired. During use, the user may reverse the reversible sun visor 100 from the first configuration to a second configuration such that interior 101 becomes a new exterior 105 and exterior 103 becomes a new interior 107, as shown in FIG. 1b. In FIG. 1b, after a user reverses the reversible sun visor 100 from the first configuration to the second configuration, the first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114 are each now located on the new interior 107 while the first interior sunglass retaining loop 113 and second interior sunglass retaining loop 115 are now located on the new exterior 105.

Returning to FIG. 1a, the first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and the second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114 appear as loops of material on the exterior 103 of the crown 104. Similarly, the first interior sunglass retaining loop 113 and the second interior sunglass retaining loop 115 appear as loops of material on the interior 101 of the crown 104. The first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112, the second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114, the first interior sunglass retaining loop 113 and the second interior sunglass retaining loop 115 are each formed from a loop of material affixed to the crown 104. In an embodiment, the loops of material comprising the first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112, the second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114, the first interior sunglass retaining loop 113, and the second interior sunglass retaining loop 115 are independent of each other, for a total of four straps independently affixed to crown 104 of the reversible sun visor 100. It is to be appreciated by one skilled in the art that an exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 or 114 and a corresponding interior sunglass retaining loop 113 or 115 can be made from one piece of material and affixed to the strap 106 such that a portion of the material is disposed on the interior surface 101 and a portion is disposed on the exterior surface 103.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a side view of reversible sun visor 100 is shown. The bill 102 is shown where it is affixed to crown 104 at a seam 118. First exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 is shown adjacent to right temple 108, where head strap 106 is affixed to crown 104. Arms 122 of sunglasses 120 are shown as they would be fit through first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114 (not shown in FIG. 2). In an embodiment, the first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112, the second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114, the first interior sunglass retaining loop 113 and the second exterior sunglass retaining loop 115 are each constructed from a material (such as cotton) providing at least some friction such that when the arms 122 of sunglasses 120 are inserted, the sunglasses 120 do not inadvertently fall out of the first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and the second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114. In an alternative embodiment, the first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and the second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114 can be coated with a rubber or similar material in order to provide a friction contact surface, preventing the arms 122 of sunglasses 120 from sliding out of the sunglass retaining loops.

In general, the bill 102 and crown 104 are created from two structurally identical finished layers with one finished layer correlating to the interior 101 and the other finished layer correlating to the exterior 103. Each finished layer is a separate panel of material. The finished layer correlating to the interior 101 may be a different material from the finished layer correlating to the exterior 103. Accordingly, the finished layer correlating to the interior 101 may be a different color, design, or both, than the finished layer correlating to the exterior 103. The finished layers correlating to the interior 101 and the exterior 103 are stitched or otherwise fastened together at the edges. In an alternative embodiment however, some physical features such as first interior sunglass retaining loop 113 and second interior sunglass retaining loop 115 may be omitted, allowing the reversible sun visor 100 to only have first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114 for use in a first configuration and no visible sunglass retaining loops when reversed into a second configuration. Similarly, other physical characteristics such as graphics or other features may be incorporated onto the finished layer correlating to the exterior 103 but not include any such graphics or features onto the finished layer correlating to the interior 101, allowing such graphics or features to be visible based upon whether the sun visor is reversed into a second configuration.

In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 6, right temple 108 may have a single loop comprising a first exterior sunglass retaining loop 140a and a first interior sunglass retaining loop 140b. Similarly, left temple 110 (not shown in FIG. 6) may have a single loop comprising a second exterior sunglass retaining bop 142a (not shown in FIG. 6) and a second interior sunglass retaining loop 142b (not shown in FIG. 6). Specifically, a single loop of material is partially passed through right temple 108 of crown 104 to create first exterior sunglass retaining loop 140a and first interior sunglass retaining loop 140b. The same is accomplished on the opposite side, a single loop of material is partially passed through left temple 110 of crown 104 to create a second exterior sunglass retaining loop 142a and a second interior sunglass retaining loop 142b. First interior sunglass retaining loop 140b and second interior sunglass retaining loop 142b become available to the user when the reversible sun visor 100 is turned inside-out.

In a preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the bill 102 and the crown 104 are each formed of two identically shaped panels of material stitched together over an inner layer 130 in between first outer layer 132 and second outer layer 134. The material used to construct the first and second outer layers 132 and 134 of bill 102 (shown in FIG. 7) and crown 104 may be any durable and customizable material such as, cotton, canvas, polyester or other suitable fabric known in the art. The material used to construct the in layer 130 may be neoprene or a pliable plastic.

It is to be understood that both layers of the crown 104 and bill 102 have printable areas upon which the manufacturer can print, embroider, or otherwise emblazon logos or other graphics.

In a preferred embodiment, head strap 186 is formed entirely from an elastic material, extending around the back of the user's head, from right temple 108 to left temple 110. This amount of elastic material in head strap 106 that extends from right temple 108 to left temple 110 generally provides a greater amount of stretch in the elastic material, as is known in the art. Referring back to FIG. 1, the head strap 106 provides stretch in the direction 116 which accommodates a wide range of head sizes providing a “one size fits all construction.”

In an alternative preferred embodiment, head strap 106 is formed entirely from an absorbent material with the same elastic characteristics as described above. In such an embodiment, the head strap 186 can be formed from a cotton-elastic (or other elastic material) weave providing comfort and absorbent characteristics to the reversible sun visor, in both reversible modes of use. Such an absorbent material may further be extended to the crown 104. This embodiment would be useful as a headband in a situation where the user is sweating.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a front view of the reversible sun visor 100 is shown. Crown 104 is shown, imprinted with a logo 124 on the exterior 103 of crown 104. The reversible nature of reversible sun visor 100 of the present invention allows the user to select at least one logo 124 for use on the exterior 103 of crown 104. An additional, different logo 124 may be imprinted upon the interior 101 of crown 104 for display when the wearer turns the reversible sun visor 100 “inside-out” from the first configuration to the second configuration.

In an embodiment, both sides of reversible sun visor 100 may be imprinted with different logos 124 or constructed from materials of different colors or characteristics. In such an embodiment, the exterior 103 of the crown 104 may be cotton terry cloth or velour, increasing absorbent characteristics attractive for use in sports, while the interior 101 of crown 104 may be a sturdier material such as canvas and imprinted with the users favorite sports team logo 124. Also shown in FIG. 3 are the first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and the second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114 affixed to exterior 103 of crown 104.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an isometric view of the reversible sun visor 100 is shown with a pair of sunglasses 120 attached. Sunglasses 120 are placed against crown 104 and above bill 102, with arms 122 extending through first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114. Second exterior sunglass retaining loop 114 is not shown in this Figure as it is not visible from this aspect.

Referring to FIG. 5, a close up view of a preferred embodiment of the reversible sun visor 100 is shown. First exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and first interior sunglass retaining loop 113 (shown in dashed lines) are depicted as individual straps affixed to each of the interior 101 and exterior 103 of right temple 108.

FIG. 6 is an alternative preferred embodiment wherein first exterior sunglass retaining loop 112 and first interior sunglass retaining loop 113 are formed as a single loop, passed through the crown 104 and affixed in place, such that a portion of the single loop extends from both the interior 101 and exterior 103 of crown 104.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the cross section of bill 102 along line 7-7 from FIG. 1 is shown. This same cross section 7-7 (in FIG. 3) is also used to describe the cross section of crown 104. Inner layer 130 is provided in order to maintain the shape of bill 102 and crown 104. First outer layer 132 and second outer layer 134 are stitched around inner layer 130 and maintains the inner layer's 130 position within bill 102 and crown 104. Inner layer 130 is previously referenced in FIGS. 3 and 4, shown in dashed lines where it is affixed within bill 102 and crown 104. First and second outer layers 132 and 134 are referred to as “outer” layers due to the reversible nature of the invention.

In use, the user places the reversible sun visor 100 on his or her head, expanding the elastic material in head strap 106 to fit the size of the user's head. The tension applied to the user's head by head strap 106 also pulls the bill 102 and the crown 104 into the appropriate curved shape across the user's forehead.

It is common for prior art hat manufacturers to utilize a cardboard core or hard plastic within the bill or brim of a traditional hat. While the cardboard or hard plastic core serves to maintain the shape of the accessory, such as a ball cap or standard sun visor, if crumpled or otherwise folded the cardboard or hard plastic core will distort and not come back to its original shape.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner layer 130 of reversible sun visor 100 is contemplated as a pliable layer of foam or foam rubber, such as neoprene or similar materials known in the art such as pliable plastic. When bill 102 is crumpled, folded and put in a pocket, or stuffed in a bag, it does not suffer the same distortion as traditional cardboard or hard plastic cores within hats. Thus, when reversible sun visor 100 is unfolded and placed on the user's head, the characteristics of the foam rubber return the bill 102 to its original shape and the head strap 106 applies a slight amount of tension, curving the bill 102 and the crown 104 around the user's forehead. The same is true when reversible sun visor 100 is turned inside out and reversed from the first configuration to the second configuration: the combination of the elastic in the head strap 106 and the inner layer 130 serve to curve bill 102 into the appropriate shape about the user's forehead whether the reversible sun visor 100 is in the first configuration or the second configuration. The inner layer 130 is also a durable material, standing up to repeated washes and heat.

The flexible and foldable nature of the reversible sun visor 100 further allows a user to wear it under another helmet or similar head gear. Any absorbent characteristics introduced through the use of specific absorbent materials help to reduce sweat in the user's eyes, while providing the user with the convenience of a sun visor once the helmet is removed.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a side view of an alternative embodiment of the reversible sun visor 150 is shown with a larger crown 154, bill 152, and head strap 156. In this embodiment, the head strap 156 comprises an elastic portion 158 and a fabric portion 160. The size of the elastic portion 158 is variable based upon desired size range of reversible sun visor 150. Fabric portion 160 of head strap 156 may be formed using the same material as bill 102 and crown 104 or another practical material known in the art. Fabric portion 160 and elastic portion 158 may also be formed of an absorbent material.

While the main characteristics of the reversible sun visor 150 are substantially the same as previous embodiments, head strap 156 allows for different designs and provides additional space for larger logos 124. Some elastic materials 158 are not conducive to screen printing or embroidery, so fabric portion 160 is contemplated for that purpose. Such a construction for head strap 156 further provides additional sizing options for different sized users or hat size ranges. While a “one size fits all” construction is contemplated, it is to be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that such a construction for adults will not necessarily be practical for a child's hat. Thus, a smaller version of a “one size fits all” is also contemplated for children and those with smaller sized heads.

Reversible sun visor 150 is formed with sunglass retaining loop 162, which is mirrored on the opposite side of the embodiment (not shown) and on the interior 101 (not shown) of the crown as before. This embodiment is fully reversible as in previous embodiments.

Referring now to FIG. 9, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown as a reversible ball cap 200. A bill 202 is affixed to a crown 204 and an integrated head strap 206 shown in dashed lines. Reversible ball cap 200 differs from reversible sun visor 100 primarily in the crown 204, wherein the crown 204 covers the top of a user's head. Head strap 206 is integrated in the bottom of crown 204, but still provides versatile sizing options as in previous embodiments.

A first exterior sunglass retaining loop 212 and a second exterior sunglass retaining loop 214 are visible at the left and right temple areas 210 and 208 of the reversible ball cap 200, as they secure the arms 122 of sunglasses 120. Analogous first interior sunglass retaining loop (not shown) and second interior sunglass retaining loop (not shown) are also affixed in the same position at left and right temple areas 210 and 208, on the interior of reversible ball cap 200 but are not visible from this aspect.

Inner layer 230 is shown in dashed lines where it is affixed between the first and second outer layers 232 and 234 of bill 202. The reversible ball cap 200 may be inverted, as explained above with regard to the reversible sun visor and worn with the opposite side out.

In an embodiment, the crown 204 is constructed with extra material proving the appearance of a “floppy” style ball cap. The purpose of this is twofold. First, crown 204 is flexible or floppy and fits neatly under a helmet, providing additional layer for warmth in cold weather or insulation when the weather is hot. Furthermore, the head strap 206 or even the entire inside (or reverse side) of reversible ball cap 200 may be lined with an insulating material such as cotton, wool, PolarTech® fleece, or Gore-tex®. The additional fabric in the reversible ball cap 200 allows the user to also pull the head strap 206 down to cover the ears.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown as a reversible storage visor 250. The reversible storage visor 250 incorporates the features and functionality of the reversible sun visor 150, as shown in FIG. 8. A bill 252 is affixed to a crown 254 and a head strap 256. The crown 254 has a right temple 266 and a left temple 267. In this embodiment, the head strap 256 comprises a first elastic portion 258, a second elastic portion 259, and a non-elastic portion 260. The size of the elastic portions 258 and 259 are variable based upon desired size range of the reversible storage visor 250. Non-elastic portion 260 of head strap 256 may be formed using the same material as the bill 252 and the crown 254 or another practical material known in the art. The non-elastic portion 260 and the elastic portions 258 and 259 may also be formed of an absorbent material. First elastic portion 258 and second elastic portion 259 are each formed with a pocket 280.

Similar to FIGS. 1a and 1b, the reversible storage visor 250 of FIG. 10 is formed with an first exterior sunglass retaining loop 262 affixed to the exterior 255 of crown 254 near the right temple 266, and a first interior sunglass retaining loop 264 affixed to the interior 253 (See FIG. 11) of the crown 254 near the right temple 266. The first interior and first exterior sunglass retaining loops 264 and 262 are replicated on the left temple 267 of the reversible storage visor 250. This embodiment is fully reversible as in previous embodiments. During use, the user may reverse the reversible storage visor 250 from a first configuration to a second configuration such that interior 253 becomes a new exterior 296 and exterior 255 becomes a new interior 298. After a user reverses the reversible storage visor 250 from the first configuration to the second configuration, the first exterior sunglass retaining loop 262 located at the right temple 266 becomes a second interior sunglass retaining loop 265 located at the left temple 267 and the first interior sunglass retaining loop 264 (See FIG. 12) becomes a second exterior sunglass retaining loop 263 (not shown) located at the left temple 267. When this embodiment is reversed from the first configuration to the second configuration, the pocket 280 remains in an upright orientation.

Now referring to FIG. 11, the reversible storage visor 250 has a first elastic portion 258, as disclosed in previous embodiments. FIG. 11 shows a key 274 inside the pocket 280. If a user decides to reverse the reversible storage visor 250, the key 274, or whatever else the user can fit into the pocket 280, will remain safely secured inside pocket 280 and will not fall out. After reversible storage visor 250 is reversed from the first configuration to the second configuration, pocket 280 will remain in an upright orientation.

FIG. 12 shows a top view of first elastic portion 258 taken along lines 12-12 showing pocket 280 in an open condition. In this embodiment, after a user puts an item, such as key 274, inside pocket 280, the user can secure inner elastic panel 278 and outer elastic panel 276 together to securely close pocket 280 by pressing fastener strips 272 together.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the first elastic portion 258 is formed with a bottom edge 268, a top edge 270, a forward edge 292, and a rear edge 294 so as to create the pocket 280. The first elastic portion 258 has an outer elastic panel 276 and an inner elastic panel 278. The outer elastic panel 276 and the inner elastic panel 278 are sewn together along the bottom edge 268 of the elastic portion 258 to form a seam 290. The forward edge 292 is attached to the right temple 266 of crown 254 and the rear edge 294 is attached to the fabric portion 260 of the head strap 256.

The first elastic portion 258 is constructed from one single piece of elastic material that is folded to create the inner elastic panel 278 and the outer elastic panel 276, thereby removing the need to sew two separate portions together along bottom edge 268 to form the elastic portion 258. The top edge 270 of the first elastic portion 258 is not sewn together thereby forming pocket 280 in the first elastic portion 258. Attached to the inside of the pocket 280 and near top edge 270 of the elastic portion 258 is a fastener 272 to securely close pocket 280. Possible fasteners to secure the pocket 280 in a closed position are hook and loop type fasteners such as Velcro®, one or more button style snaps, one or more zippers, magnets, and any other means that is known in the art. It is fully contemplated that hook and loop type fastener strips 272 may be segmented into two or more segments, similar to the use of multiple snaps, to maintain maximum stretch capability of the elastic portion 258 while keeping the pocket 280 securely closed.

If a zipper is used to securely close pocket 280, the zipper can be installed along top edge 270 of first elastic portion 258. In an alternative embodiment, a zipper may be installed in a vertical orientation in first elastic portion 258, either near forward edge 292, rear edge 294, or at some point in between forward and rear edges 292 and 294, thereby maintaining maximum stretch capability of first elastic portion 258 while providing a means to securely close pocket 280. It is fully contemplated that only one vertical zipper may be installed on either inner elastic panel 278 or outer elastic panel 276 of elastic portion 258. However, two or more vertical zippers may be used allowing the wearer to access the contents of pocket 280 when the visor is in either configuration. If one or more vertical zippers are used, top edge 270 of inner and outer elastic panels 278 and 276 may be permanently secured together in a manner similar to bottom edge 268.

Second elastic portion 259 is formed with the same features as the first elastic portion 258. Any functions and features of first elastic portion 258 described are to be considered identical to the functions and features of the second elastic portion 259. However, in some alternative embodiments, reversible storage visor 250 may contain one elastic portion or multiple elastic portions. In yet another embodiment, head strap 256 may consist of only an elastic portion and no non-elastic portion.

FIG. 13 shows a cross section view of the elastic portion 258 taken along line 13-13 from FIG. 10. Inner elastic panel 278 and outer elastic panel 276 are joined together at the bottom edge 268 of first elastic portion 258, thereby creating seam 290. Inner elastic panel 278 and outer elastic panel 276 may be joined together by way of sewing, adhesives, thermal bonding, or any other manner as is known in the art. The top edge 270 is open to allow an item to be inserted into the pocket 280. In FIG. 13, key 274 is shown inserted into pocket 280. To close top edge 270, thereby keeping the contents of pocket 280 secure, fastener strips 272 can be pressed together, thereby securely closing pocket 280, Pocket 280 may be sized to hold key 274 (as shown), a car remote fob, a credit card, money, or any other pocket sized object.

FIG. 14 shows a side view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention and generally referred to as the reversible storage ball cap 300. Reversible storage ball cap 300 consists of a crown 304 with a forward section 305 having a left temple 306 (not shown) and a right temple 307, a bottom section 308 a rear section 309 and a top section 310. The forward section 305, the rear section 309 and the top section 310 form a pocket aperture 311 having a first edge 313 and a second edge 314. A bill 302 is affixed along said bottom 308 of said crown 304.

An elastic panel 358 is secured in the pocket aperture 311 between first edge 313 and second edge 314 of pocket aperture 311. The elastic panel 358 has a top edge 359, a bottom edge 360 a forward edge 361 and a rear edge 362. In a preferred embodiment, the elastic panel 358 is comprised of an inner panel 363 (not shown) and an outer panel 364 of elastic material, wherein the inner panel 363 is joined to the outer panel 364 along the bottom edge 360, the forward edge 361 and the rear edge 362 of said elastic panel 358 thereby forming a pocket 380 accessible through said top edge 359 of said elastic panel 358. It is to be appreciated a single elastic panel 358 may be folded to form a bottom edge 360 and then joined along the forward edge 361 and the rear edge 362 to form the pocket 380.

The forward edge 361 of the elastic panel 358 is joined to the pocket aperture 311 along the first edge 313 of the pocket aperture 311 and the rear edge 362 of the elastic panel 358 is joined to the pocket aperture 311 along the second edge 314 of the pocket aperture 311. However, the top edge 359 is not connected to the pocket aperture 311 to ensure that the pocket 380 remains accessible.

The reversible storage ball cap 300 is shown with a first exterior sunglass retaining loop 312 connected to the right temple 307 of the crown 304. As with the previous embodiments, a second exterior sunglass retaining loop 315 (not shown) is connected to the left temple 306 (not shown) of the crown 304.

As similarly described for the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 9, the crown 304 and the bill 302 have an exterior and an interior in a first configuration such that the reversible storage ball cap 300 can be reversed from said first configuration to a second configuration causing the exterior to become a new interior and causing the interior to become a new exterior. Whether the reversible storage ball cap 300 is in the first configuration or the second configuration, the pocket 380 will remain accessible from the top edge 359 of the elastic panel 358. The reversible storage ball cap 300 may be equipped with a first interior sunglass retaining loop and a second interior sunglass retaining loop each connected to the interior as more fully disclosed in connection with FIG. 9.

While a “one size fits all” construction is contemplated, it is to be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that such a construction for adults will not necessarily be practical for a child's hat. Thus, a smaller version of a “one size fits all” is also contemplated for children and those with smaller sized heads. It is also to be appreciated that the reversible storage ball cap 300 may be configured with more than one pocket aperture 311 and more than one corresponding pocket 380. Also, it is contemplated that the placement of the pocket aperture 311 may be formed in the rear section of the reversible storage visor and hat without departing from the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention and generally referred to as the reversible storage sun hat 400. Reversible sun hat 400 consists of a circular crown 404 with a top edge 406, a bottom edge 408, a right temple 405 and a left temple 407 (not shown). A top panel 490 is attached to the top edge 406 of the circular crown 404. The bottom edge 408 of the crown 404 has one or more pocket apertures 411 formed with a top edge 412, a first edge 413 and a second edge 414. A brim 410 is attached to the bottom edge 408 of the crown 404, but is not connected to the top edge 412, the first edge 411 or the second edge 414, thereby ensuring the pocket aperture 411 is open to receive an elastic panel 458.

An elastic panel 458 is secured in the pocket aperture 411 between first edge 413 and second edge 414 of pocket aperture 411. The elastic panel 458 has a top edge 459, a bottom edge 460 a forward edge 461 and a rear edge 462. In a preferred embodiment, the elastic panel 458 is comprised of an inner panel 463 (not shown) and an outer panel 464 of elastic material, wherein the inner panel 463 is joined to the outer panel 464 along the bottom edge 460, the forward edge 461 and the rear edge 462 of the elastic panel 458 thereby forming a pocket 480 accessible through the top edge 459 of said elastic panel 458. It is to be appreciated a single elastic panel 458 may be folded to form a bottom edge 460 and then joined along the forward edge 461 and the rear edge 462 to form the pocket 480.

The forward edge 461 of the elastic panel 458 is joined to the pocket aperture 411 along the first edge 413 of the pocket aperture 411 and the rear edge 462 of the elastic panel 458 is joined to the pocket aperture 411 along the second edge 414 of the pocket aperture 411. However, the top edge 459 is not connected to the pocket aperture 411 to ensure that the pocket 480 remains accessible. Further, in a preferred embodiment, the bottom edge 460 of the elastic panel 458 is not connected to the brim 410 as shown by gap 466, thus allowing for the elastic panel 458 to easily expand or contract to properly fit a user's head size.

The reversible storage sun hat 400 is shown with a first exterior sunglass retaining loop 420 connected to the right temple 405 of the circular crown 404. As with the previous embodiments, a second exterior sunglass retaining loop 421 (not shown) is connected to the left temple 407 (not shown) of the crown 404.

As similarly described for the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 9, the circular crown 404 and the brim 410 have an exterior and an interior in a first configuration such that the reversible storage sun hat 400 can be reversed from said first configuration to a second configuration causing the exterior to become a new interior and causing the interior to become a new exterior. Whether the reversible storage sun hat 400 is in the first configuration or the second configuration, the pocket 480 will remain accessible from the top edge 459 of the elastic panel 458. The reversible storage sun hat 400 may be equipped with a first interior sunglass retaining loop and a second interior sunglass retaining loop each connected to the interior as more fully disclosed in connection with FIG. 9.

While there have been shown what are presently considered to be preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A reversible storage visor, comprising: wherein said crown, said bill, and said head strap have an exterior and an interior in a first configuration such that said reversible storage visor can be reversed from said first configuration to a second configuration causing the exterior to become a new interior and causing the interior to become a new exterior; and

a crown having a left temple, a right temple, and a bottom;

a head strap having a first end attached to said left temple and a second end attached to said right temple wherein said head strap consists of one or more fabric portions and one or more elastic portions, wherein each said elastic portion consists of a top edge, a bottom edge, a forward edge, and a rear edge;

a bill affixed along said bottom of said crown;

wherein said elastic panel of said head strap consists of an inner panel and an outer panel of elastic material, permanently joined along said bottom edge, said forward edge, and said rear edge of said elastic panel, thereby forming a pocket accessible through said top edge.

2. The reversible storage visor of claim 1 further comprising:

a first exterior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said exterior of said crown adjacent to said right temple and a second exterior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said exterior of said crown adjacent to said left temple; and

a first interior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said interior of said crown adjacent said right temple and a second interior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said interior of said crown adjacent said left temple,

wherein the first interior sunglass retaining loop and first exterior sunglass retaining loop are located on opposite sides of side right temple of said crown and the second interior sunglass retaining loop and second exterior sunglass retaining loop are located on opposite sides of said left temple of said crown.

3. The reversible storage visor of claim 2 wherein said first exterior sunglass retaining loop and said first interior sunglass retaining loop are made of a single loop partially passed through said right temple of said crown and wherein said second exterior sunglass retaining loop and said second interior sunglass retaining loop are made of a single loop partially passed through said left temple of said crown.

4. The reversible storage visor of claim 2 wherein said bill is having a first outer layer and a second outer layer with an inner layer in between said first outer layer and said second outer layer, wherein said inner layer is formed of a pliable material.

5. The reversible storage visor of claim 2 wherein said crown is having a first outer layer and a second outer layer with an inner layer in between said first outer layer and said second outer layer, wherein said inner layer is formed of a pliable material.

6. The reversible storage visor of claim 2 wherein said first outer layer and said second outer layer of said bill and said crown are constructed from a durable fabric.

7. The reversible storage visor of claim 2 wherein said bill and said crown each has a printable area.

8. The reversible storage visor of claim 1 wherein said head strap is formed of an absorbent material.

9. The reversible storage visor of claim 1 consisting of a means to securely close said pocket.

10. A reversible storage bail cap comprising: wherein said crown and said bill have an exterior and an interior in a first configuration such that said reversible storage bail cap can be reversed from said first configuration to a second configuration causing the exterior to become a new interior and causing the interior to become a new exterior; and

a crown having a forward section having a left temple and a right temple, a bottom section, a rear section, and a top section, wherein said forward section, said rear section and said top section form a pocket aperture having a first edge and a second edge;

an elastic panel extending between said first edge and said second edge of said pocket aperture, said elastic panel having a top edge, a bottom edge, a forward edge, and a rear edge

a bill affixed along said bottom of said crown;

wherein said elastic panel consists of an inner panel and an outer panel of elastic material, permanently joined along said bottom edge, said forward edge, and said rear edge of said elastic panel, thereby forming a pocket accessible through said top edge.

11. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 10 further comprising:

a first exterior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said exterior of said crown adjacent to said left temple and a second exterior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said exterior of said crown adjacent to said right temple; and

a first interior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said interior of said crown adjacent to said left temple and a second interior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said interior of said crown adjacent to said right temple.

12. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 11 wherein the first interior sunglass retaining loop and first exterior sunglass retaining loop are located on opposite sides of side right temple of said crown and the second interior sunglass retaining loop and second exterior sunglass retaining loop are located on opposite sides of said left temple of said crown.

13. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 10 wherein said bill is having a first outer layer and a second outer layer with an inner layer in between said first outer layer and said second outer layer, wherein said inner layer is formed of a pliable material.

13. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 10 wherein said crown is having a first outer layer and a second outer layer with an inner layer in between said first outer layer and said second outer layer, wherein said inner layer is formed of a pliable material.

14. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 10 wherein said first outer layer and said second outer layer of said bill and said crown are constructed from a durable fabric.

15. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 10 consisting of a means to securely close said pocket.

16. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 10 wherein said elastic material is formed of an absorbent material.

17. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 10 wherein said crown is formed of an absorbent material.

18. The reversible storage ball cap of claim 10 wherein said bill and said crown each has a printable area.

19. A reversible storage sun hat comprising: wherein said circular crown and said brim have an exterior and an interior in a first configuration such that said reversible storage sun hat can be reversed from said first configuration to a second configuration causing the exterior to become a new interior and causing the interior to become a new exterior; and

a circular crown having a forward section having a left temple and a right temple, a bottom edge, and a top edge wherein the bottom edge of said circular crown has one or more pocket apertures formed with a top edge, first edge and second edge;

an elastic panel extending between said first edge and said second edge of said pocket aperture, said elastic panel having a top edge, a bottom edge, a forward edge, and a rear edge;

a brim affixed along said bottom edge of said circular crown;

wherein said elastic panel consists of an inner panel and an outer panel of elastic material, permanently joined along said bottom edge, said forward edge, and said rear edge of said elastic panel, thereby forming a pocket accessible through said top edge of said elastic panel.

20. The reversible storage sun hat of claim 19 further comprising:

a first exterior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said exterior of said circular crown adjacent to said left temple and a second exterior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said exterior of said circular crown adjacent to said right temple; and

a first interior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said interior of said circular crown adjacent to said left temple and a second interior sunglass retaining loop affixed to said interior of said circular crown adjacent to said right temple.