Abstract: Eyewear includes a frame having a first side and a second side. The eyewear additionally includes a continuous strap. The continuous strap includes a first end and a second end. The first end is secured to the first side of the frame. The continuous strap includes a first side and a second side. The second side has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes one of a hook material and a loop material. The second portion includes the other of the hook material and loop material. The continuous strap passes through the opening proximate the second side of the frame and doubles over such that the hook material cooperatively engages the loop material.

Abstract: Sunglasses includes a frame portion having opposing inner and outer faces, opposed first and second sides, a nose bridge formed between the opposed first and second sides, and a lens opening between the nose bridge and each of the first and second sides. A lens-defining member, made of a flexible, thin, sun-protective, light-transmitting material, has an outer face applied to the inner face of the frame portion and an opposing inner face, and a side in juxtaposition to each of the first and second sides of the frame portion. Fasteners affix the lens-defining member to the frame portion, and first and second temples extend rearwardly of the frame portion at the first and second sides of the frame portion, respectively.

Abstract: A mechanism for extending and retracting a retainer strap for eyewear. The strap is disposed in one or both hollow temples of an eyeglass frame and is manually extended, retracted, and locked by an extension which slides in a port or passageway forming a track or slot disposed in one surface of the temple extending from the interior to the exterior of the temple. The extension provides the means to manually retract the strap from an extended position, which extended position is achieved by pulling out the strap from the rearward end, and may be used to form one component of a locking mechanism for the strap either in the extended or retracted position. The retainer straps may be either elastic, inelastic, or one of each to provide for different modes of use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an eyeglasses with one arm on the left and on the right side and with on each side one connector element of a mount, where on the connector element joint elements are positioned which work together with joint elements positioned on the end of the arm close to the mount, forming a rotary joint. The arm has on its end close to the mount at least two fingers in its longitudinal direction, which exert a spring action in the direction of the joint axis of the rotary joint.

Abstract: An improved mechanism for extending and retracting a retainer strap for eyewear. The strap is disposed in a cartridge unit such as a box like container which may be inserted into the interior of one or both hollow temples of an eyeglass frame. Alternatively, the strap containing cartridge may be affixed to the exterior of the temple of any pair of eyewear of sufficient size to support the cartridge. Retainer straps suitable for use with the cartridge may be either elastic, inelastic, or one of each to provide for different modes of use.

Abstract: The present invention provides protective eyewear, also referred to as sport goggles, where the lens and the flexible frame are easily separated and interchangeable. The lens and the flexible frame are both available in a variety of colors. Therefore, the wearer can select and easily assemble a preferred color combination. More specifically, the protective eyewear includes a lens received within a flexible frame and a strap that is permanently attached to the lens for securing the eyewear to a wearer's face. There are at least two connection apertures spaced around an outer perimeter of the lens. The flexible frame has at least two connection protrusions that are aligned with the connection apertures in the lens for removably receiving the connection apertures.

Abstract: A pair of industrial safety glasses comprises: a glasses frame comprising: a connection means connected to each of both ends thereof; a first coupling part on at least one of the connection means; and a second coupling part corresponding to the first coupling part for coupling thereto; and a wearing means having two ends respectively connected to two ends of the connection means, and the wearing means comprising an adjustable unit so as to adjust the length of the wearing means for being suitable for different workers having different sized heads.

Abstract: Sunglasses for infants and children includes an elongate integral member including a central portion having a central nose bridge, a lens opening on each side of the central nose bridge, and a temple extending rearwardly of the central portion at a bend in the elongate integral member on each side of the central portion. A lens-defining member is affixed to the central portion, and an elongate integral backing is affixed to the lens-defining member. The backing includes a central nose bridge opposing the central nose bridge of the central portion, and a lens opening on each side of the central nose bridge opposing the lens opening on each side of the central portion. A nose bridge pad is affixed to the backing, and a temple pad is affixed to the backing at each side thereof and to the temples maintaining the bends in the elongate integral member.

Abstract: A pair of eyeglasses with a unitary appearance by having the connecting piece concealed includes three parts: a lens-seat, two connecting pieces, and two temple assemblies. The unique alignment of the three parts in assembly allows for variegated design in the temple assembly, which can also be a restraining buckle strap. The adjustable temple assemblies can be easily assembled with the lens-seat without tools, which is rotatable relative to the lens-seat via different positions in meshing between the parallel teeth of the retaining piece (extending outwards from the temple assembly), and the protruding teeth of the connecting piece, thereby permitting an optimal adjustment of an inclination angle of the temple assembly.

Abstract: Glasses for use in sports activities and the like have a frame, at least one lens formed to the frame, and a strap formed to the frame which is configured to inhibit the glasses from falling off of a wearer. A leash is formed to the strap and a collar formed to the leash. The strap, leash, collar or other component of the present invention may optionally be sufficiently buoyant so as to float the glasses in water. A breakaway clip releases the collar from a wearer if the glasses, strap, leash, or collar get caught.

Abstract: Glasses adapted to be mounted on caps having an interior band such that terminal temple connecting portions are mounted on such band at two circumferentially-spaced positions, and the glasses so mounted are further adapted to upwardly pivot such that the glasses are easily utilized with caps worn in both the brim rearward and forward positions.

Abstract: Baby and toddler sunglasses comprising frames having lenses. The frames are secured around the user's head by a band. The band is secured to the frames by a securing piece.

Abstract: A temple construction arrangement for eyewear incorporating a retractable retaining strap in a hollow temple to form a part of and be attached to eyewear such as eye sight correction glasses, sunglasses, safety and protection goggles, and the like. The temple is separated or split lengthwise into two haves and a rotatable bearing, positioned transverse the length or longitudinal axis of the temple, is placed at the temple end attachable to the lens holding frame between the two halves. The retractable strap is disposed within and along the length of one side of the temple and, in combination with a longitudinal stretchable retracting member such as a spring or elastic cord, passes around the bearing. The attached retracting member is disposed along the length of the opposite side of the temple from that of the strap providing a retraction force for the retaining strap. The temple halves are then joined together to enclose the bearing, retaining strap, and retracting member as a finished unit.

Abstract: Sunglasses for infants and children includes an elongate integral member including a central portion having a central nose bridge, a lens opening on each side of the central nose bridge, and a temple extending rearwardly of the central portion at a bend in the elongate integral member on each side of the central portion. A lens-defining member is affixed to the central portion, and an elongate integral backing is affixed to the lens-defining member. The backing includes a central nose bridge opposing the central nose bridge of the central portion, and a lens opening on each side of the central nose bridge opposing the lens opening on each side of the central portion. A nose bridge pad is affixed to the backing, and a temple pad is affixed to the backing at each side thereof and to the temples maintaining the bends in the elongate integral member.

Abstract: The comfort optics visor was designed for people who suffer from impaired vision. Both primary and only peripheral vision can be helped, when the comfort optics visor is equipped with 2× to 10× power monoculars, with extra close focus and roof top prisms. The patient has assisted vision without being strapped with tunnel vision. By tipping the head approximately 15 degrees they are aligned. Patient is assisted by the optical assistant, who instructs the patient in the selection of the proper monoculars. He also instructs the patient in alignment and adjustments. The optical technician, while fitting the self-aligning headband and visor, installs the monocular temporary hardware. When the alignment and adjustments are completed, the technician secures the monoculars permanently, and removes the temporary hardware. The patient only has to focus the monoculars to the depth they wish to view.

Abstract: An eyeglasses system comprises an eyeglasses frame having a pair of opposite temple regions an attachment interface at each temple region, and two or more sets of laces. The lace sets are interchangeably attachable and detachable from the attachment interfaces at the temple regions of the frame, such that laces of different styles may be used with the single frame. There are in some systems plural frames each having a pair of opposite temple regions with an attachment interface at each temple region, such that plural sets of laces may be freely interchanged and worn with plural sets of laces. Individual ones of the lace sets may include laces of one or more of different styles, colors, indicia, widths, or materials.

Abstract: A retractable eyeware retaining strap assembly consisting of a strap and a hollow eyewear temple for containing the strap, a strap retaining block to which the strap is attached positioned within the temple and arranged to slide along the temple, an elastic member such as an extendable spring connected between the block and the eyewear end of the temple and fastening means attached to the strap at the temple end for fastening the withdrawn strap to the eyewear. A block locking device is provided to secure the block at a desired position along the temple, particularly at one end or the other. The strap is withdrawn by releasing the block at the eyewear end of the temple and retracted by releasing the block at the temple end.

Abstract: The present invention is a lightweight frame formed of layers of neoprene or other suitable material in which the layers are connected in such a way as to form lens receiving pockets on the frame. The lens receiving pockets enable different kinds of lenses to be easily inserted and removed from the frames. Another feature of the invention is a fastening system that uses Velcro™ which can be locked in place using a locking band. In another embodiment of the invention, a threaded coupler is used. The invention also provides for vented cushions which both protect the user from wind so that the eye socket does not become dry, but also allows the protected chambers in which the eyes reside by venting the chamber through these cushions. Another feature of the invention is a vertical strap which can be used to firmly secure the frame in the vertical direction.

Abstract: A holding apparatus for eye glasses which have magnets connected to the left and right edges thereof. The holding apparatus has a flexible retaining member for positioning about a users neck. A holding member magnet is connected to each end of the retaining member via a pivotal element which is of sufficient flexibility for moving and orienting the polarity of the holding element magnets for attraction and connection to a respective eye glass magnet when placed in close proximity thereto.

Abstract: A spectacle frame includes a frame body and first and second temples. Each of the temples includes fixed and extendable temple members, each of which extends longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end and has a proximal and distal end portions. The proximal end of the fixed temple member is connected to the frame body. The extendable temple member is extendable from a normal position, where the proximal end portion of the extendable temple member is proximate to the proximal end portion of the fixed temple member and the distal end portion of the extendable temple member is proximate to the distal end portion of the fixed temple member, and an extend position, where the proximal end portion of the extendable temple member is proximate to the distal end portion of the fixed temple member and the distal end portion the extendable temple member is longitudinally spaced from the distal end portion of the fixed temple member.

Abstract: A retractable eyeware retaining strap assembly consisting of a strap and a hollow eyewear temple for containing the strap, a strap retaining block to which the strap is attached positioned within the temple and arranged to slide along the temple, an elastic. member such as an extendable spring connected between the block and the eyewear end of the temple and fastening means attached to the strap at the temple end for fastening the withdrawn strap to the eyewear. A block locking device is provided to secure the block at a desired position along the temple, particularly at one end or the other. The strap is withdrawn by releasing the block at the eyewear end of the temple and retracted by releasing the block at the temple end.

Abstract: An eyeglass retainer is disclosed which comprises a filament member having gripping members connected at either end of the filament member, the gripping members being structured for securement to the terminal end of earpieces for eyeglasses. Each gripping member is structured with a plurality of openings through which the terminal end of eyeglasses may be positioned to provide a variety of ways that the retainer may be attached to the glasses. The eyeglass retainer may further include one or more contact members for contacting and engaging a portion of the glasses to facilitate attachment of the eyeglass retainer to the glasses.

Abstract: A support or frame which holds eyeglass prescription lenses as well as optical loupes, microscopes, lights, and similar instruments used by doctors, dentists, jewelers, or sportsman. The frame is custom fitted to the facial features of the user and throughout has large surfaces which contact many facial features of the user including the forehead, eyebrows, nose ridge, and cheeks. The large surface contact areas and an adjustable headband system enable the user to comfortably wear the device for extended periods of time despite the weight of the lights, loupes, etc. A special frame for prescription lenses is also provided, as well as methods for manufacturing the device.

Abstract: A multifunctional eyeglass retainer which can be secured to a pair of eyeglasses such that the eyeglasses can be held in either an open or a closed position. In addition, the eyeglass retainer can also be fabricated such that it has sufficient buoyancy to remain floating to even if the eyeglass retainer becomes partially disengaged from the eyeglasses and the eyeglasses fall into water while the wearer is swimming. The eyeglass retainer has connectors at both ends which connect to the temples of a pair of eyeglasses. When connected in this manner, the eyeglasses can be carried in an open configuration. Likewise, the eyeglass retainer can be secured to a pair of eyeglasses by securing the opposing ends of the eyeglass retainer together and using a loop formed by the eyeglass retainer to retain the eyeglasses in a closed configuration.

Abstract: An eyewear has a gasket between the user and lenses that electrostatically filter the air flow of particulate while still permitting a gentle flow of air to maintain comfort to the wearer of the eyewear, and prevent fogging on the lenses. The electret filter material forms a perimeter around the eyes and lenses to remove, small to large particulates, from microns to millimeters. The filters can be formed with a choice of face contact gasket, baffles, coarse filters, and electret filter density. Baffles or coarse filters over the electret filters are used to protect the electret filter from damage from larger particles and transfer heat to the airflow.

Abstract: A frame assembly for eyeglasses is provided having removable and interchangeable securement members. The frame assembly is preferably provided with a lense frame having mounting holes formed in the opposite ends of the frame. A pair of mounting pins are provided to be removably secured within the mounting holes. In one embodiment, a cord member is secured at its opposite ends to the mounting pins and wraps around the user's head to secure the frame assembly in place. In another embodiment, a pair of arms are secured to the mounting pins and releasably secured within the mounting holes. The frame assembly eliminate the necessity for a hinge assembly and creates a durable and adjustable eyeglass assembly.

Abstract: A three-way eyeglass retainer having a retaining cord secured to a retaining member is disclosed. The retaining member is a hollow, tubular member with a cylindrical shape. A channel extends through the member and is defined by a wall fabricated from an elastic material. The channel communicates with the environment of the retaining member by an opening one or more of the ends of the retaining member. The channel further communicates with the exterior through a tunnel that is positioned transverse to the longitudinal axis of the retaining member. The tunnel communicates with the exterior through ports on either end of the tunnel that extend through the wall. A temple piece of a pair of eyeglasses may be inserted into the openings or the ports in the retaining member in various orientations to secure the eyeglasses to the person of a user.

Abstract: The present invention provides eye protection systems. The eye protection systems include a lens capable of being mounted in and being interchangeable between a plurality of different lens-mounting platforms. These platforms may include spectacles or goggles with release mechanisms, which permit the lens to be removed while providing full ballistic protection when installed in the platform. The lens of the present invention protects against a plurality of threats including spectrums of light, such as sun light, ultraviolet light, or laser light, wind, dust, projectiles, etc. The lens may include a laminate structure, which protects sensitive technologies from exposure to environmental conditions, such as chemicals, weather, etc.

Abstract: A lens-holding shaft 41 displaces a lens 1 towards a main rotating tool 50 for processing the peripheral portion of the lens 1. A long hole 115 penetrating a waterproof case 101 is formed in the waterproof case 101 along the locus of displacement of the lens-holding shaft 41 and the lens-holding shaft is inserted through the long hole 115. At the outside of the waterproof case 101 along the long hole 115, a flexible water-resistant sliding shutter 130 is disposed in a manner such that the sliding shutter 130 can be freely displaced. The sliding shutter 130 is connected with the lens-holding shaft 41. A guide member 150 containing the sliding shutter 130 is bent at a position before the main shaft 51.

Abstract: An end fastener for attaching an end of an eyeglass retainer to the end of an eyeglass temple piece includes an elastomeric fastener body secured to the retainer cord or rope and having an internal bore extending into the body from an insertion opening. The diameter of the bore varies from a largest diameter near the insertion opening to a smallest diameter at the end of the bore away from the opening. A bulbous portion may be provided adjacent the opening and have the largest bore diameter therein. Because of the variety of bore diameters, the bore will receive and hold a wide variety of temple piece end sizes.

Abstract: The present invention is an eyeglass frame arrangement fabricated of a combination of a generally rigid, strong, non-elastic lens support, nose bridge, eye socket engager and temple bows. The arrangement is also equipped with a generally non-elastic restraining strap removably engaged around the back of the head. The arrangement is adapted for use while engaging in activities which involve the possibility of physical forces, and/or usages around bodies of water. The arrangement, when secured, applies only an insignificant amount of pressure to the user's head. The arrangement is such that water easily drains out of the bottom of the arrangement.

Abstract: A multifunctional eyeglass retainer which can be secured to a pair of eyeglasses such that the eyeglasses can be held in either an open or a closed position. In addition, the eyeglass retainer can also be fabricated such that it has sufficient buoyancy to remain floating to even if the eyeglass retainer becomes partially disengaged from the eyeglasses and the eyeglasses fall into water while the wearer is swimming. The eyeglass retainer has connectors at both ends which connect to the temples of a pair of eyeglasses. When connected in this manner, the eyeglasses can be carried in an open configuration. Likewise, the eyeglass retainer can be secured to a pair of eyeglasses by securing the opposing ends of the eyeglass retainer together and using a loop formed by the eyeglass retainer to retain the eyeglasses in a closed configuration.

Abstract: A device for restraining eyeglasses around neck and for securing eyeglasses to head includes an arrangement configured to retract a strap part into a hollow portion of a temple leg. The strap coils around itself or retracts by another arrangement. The retracting arrangement is controlled by a button or slide to retract the strap and to stop retracting the strap. Two independently retractable strap parts are provided, each connecting to a different temple leg of eyeglasses or sunglasses. The two independently retractable strap parts are connectable to each other in a rearward section of the strap parts.

Abstract: Neck leash device for retaining eye wear with a resilient leash portion approximately thirty four inches long, a pair of adjustment beads, one for adjusting the leash around the users neck and the other for adjusting the leash around the users head, a leash to eyeglass attachment, the attachment comprised of a length of resilient tubing terminating at one end in a first plastic fastener, the opposite end capable of retaining the ear piece of a pair of glasses, and a mating second plastic fastener that attaches to each end of said leash portion, said mating first and second fasteners comprised of resilient plastic material so that they can snap together and detach from each other in an emergency. A preferred embodiment includes wherein said leash portion is constructed of a lycra covered neoprene strip where said strip is folded over and sewn so that said leash has a hollow portion traveling its entire length.

Abstract: An eye wear assembly 10 is provided which includes a film-like, resilient collapsible lens 20 that wraps about the eyes of the wearer W from temple T to temple T. The lens 20 is partially held in place by its left and right wings 30 which include respective left and right temple pads 40. The lens 20 is offset from the face of the wearer W by horizontal pads 60 which increase the wearer's W comfort and provide circulation via two primary vents 70 to allow perspiration to dissipate from the enclosure created between the lens 20 and the wearer's W face. A nose cutout region 90, conforming to the general shape of a typical user's nose N, is provided at the midpoint of the lens 20 at its bottom edge 28. A nose saddle 100, made of soft, resilient foam or rubber-type material, is attached adjacent the nose cutout region 90 on the rear concave surface 24 of the lens 20. The nose saddle 100 conforms to the shape of the nose N of the wearer W.

Abstract: The present invention is a lightweight frame formed of layers of neoprene or other suitable material in which the layers are connected in such a way as to form lens receiving pockets on the frame. The lens receiving pockets enable different kinds of lenses to be easily inserted and removed from the frames. Another feature of the invention is a fastening system that uses Velcro™ which can be locked in place using a locking band. In another embodiment of the invention, a threaded coupler is used. The invention also provides for vented cushions which both protect the user from wind so that the eye socket does not become dry, but also allows the protected chambers in which the eyes reside by venting the chamber through these cushions. Another feature of the invention is a vertical strap which can be used to firmly secure the frame in the vertical direction.

Abstract: An improved eyeglass retainer is disclosed, having annular closure attaching to the eyeglass frames. In an alternate embodiment, the closure comprises an elastic band that is only partially attached to the front portion of retainer, meaning that the retainer need not be tubular at the attachment point with elastic band. The invention is designed to present an aesthetically pleasing appearance and to maintain a close fit of the retainer material with the eyeglass frames, even in the presence of winds and inertial forces. In alternate embodiments, the closure in combination with protuberances located on the eyeglass temple pieces secures the retainer to the temple pieces. The protuberances may be integral with the eyeglass frames, or may be separately attached.

Abstract: Neck leash device for retaining eye wear with a resilient leash portion approximately thirty four inches long, a pair of adjustment beads, one for adjusting the leash around the users neck and the other for adjusting the leash around the users head, a leash to eyeglass attachment, the attachment comprised of a length of resilient tubing terminating at one end in a first plastic fastener, the opposite end capable of retaining the ear piece of a pair of glasses, and a mating second plastic fastener that attaches to each end of said leash portion, said mating first and second fasteners comprised of resilient plastic material so that they can snap together and detach from each other in an emergency. A preferred embodiment includes wherein said leash portion is constructed of a lycra covered neoprene strip where said strip is folded over and sewn so that said leash has a hollow portion traveling its entire length.

Abstract: A double rolled stretch fabric protective member is detachably attached to a pair of connection members at each end to form an eyeglasses retainer and case combination with detachable straps. The connection members comprise tubular straps which may receive the stems of eyeglasses therein and held in place on the stems by elastic bands within the ends of the straps. The assembly is then worn around the head or neck as a retainer preventing the eyeglasses from sliding forward or falling off in sports and such. When the eyeglasses are not worn they can be folded and placed within the cavity formed by unrolling the double roll of the case.

Abstract: The present invention provides a A clip for holding eyeglasses, comprising (a) a base having top and bottom portions; (b) a tongue having a top part connected to the top portion of said base, said tongue extending downward to lie near said bottom portion of said base, said base and tongue being a one-piece member with said tongue in relaxed state lying in or close to the plane of said base, said tongue being resiliently bendable away from said plane of said base, said tongue having a bottom portion with a terminal edge, and upward from that edge an aperture; (c) a jump ring extending through said aperture in said tongue and situated generally perpendicular to said tongue; and (d) a holding ring interlinked with said jump ring and lying generally parallel to said plane of said base.

Abstract: A child-proof strap assembly for retaining eyewear on a wearer's head includes: a. a flexible lower strap portion of at least two lower strap sections, each lower strap section having a front end and a rear end; b. a means of detachably attaching the rear ends of the two lower strap sections to one another; c. a means of attaching the front ends of the two lower strap sections to opposite temples of the eyewear; d. a flexible upper strap portion of at least two upper strap sections, each upper strap section having a front end and a rear end, the front and rear ends of each upper strap section being affixed to a lower strap section, the front and rear ends of each upper strap section being affixed to a different lower strap section; and e. a means of adjusting the strap assembly to fit the head of the eyewear wearer.

Abstract: An improved eyeglass retainer is disclosed, having annular closure attaching to the eyeglass frames. In an alternate embodiment, the closure comprises an elastic band that is only partially attached to the front portion of retainer, meaning that the retainer need not be tubular at the attachment point with elastic band. The invention is designed to present an aesthetically pleasing appearance and to maintain a close fit of the retainer material with the eyeglass frames, even in the presence of winds and inertial forces. In alternate embodiments, the closure in combination with protuberances located on the eyeglass temple pieces secures the retainer to the temple pieces. The protuberances may be integral with the eyeglass frames, or may be separately attached.

Abstract: Apparatus for facilitating and improving vision, and specifically reading or near vision. The apparatus is configured for facilitating vision from one eye of a user. The apparatus includes a lens coupled to a holding mechanism. The lens is formed of a size, shape and power that improves a substantially complete area of vision from the one eye when provided close to the one eye. The holding mechanism includes a first portion adapted to be coupled to or to hold the lens. The holding mechanism includes a second portion that is adapted for being held between two fingers of the user. The holding mechanism second portion can be formed with an aperture, for attaching to another object. The present invention provides a convenient, small, and personal apparatus for facilitating vision in situations where such vision could be impaired.

Abstract: Disclosed is a foldable glasses including a rear banding member which is made of resin, surrounds a rear of a human head and has projected end portions, legs having receiving grooves formed on end portions thereof so that the projected end portions are received into the receiving grooves, respectively, and lens supporting members hinge-connected to the legs so that the lens supporting members are rotated centering around the legs, respectively. The inner diameter of the foldable glasses is adjusted by the movement of the rear banding member, and thus the user can have a good feeling in wearing the glasses. Also, since the lens supporting members are rotated, the inconvenience caused by the frequent wearing/removing of the glasses is minimized.

Abstract: Disclosed is an eyewear retention system, which extends across the top of the wearer's head for supporting at least one lens in the wearer's field of view. The retention system includes at least a first and a second support component, which are spaced apart laterally from each other along at least a portion of the eyewear system. The system may include any of a variety of electronics, including telecommunications receivers, transmitters, electronic storage devices, and head-up display driving circuitry.

Abstract: An improved eyeglass retainer is disclosed, having an annular closure attaching to the eyeglass frames. The annular closure draws the material of the retainer over the attachment means of the retainer, and bunches and constricts it in front of the attachment means, so as to hide said attachment means from view, and to maintain a close fit of the retainer material with the eyeglass frames, even in the presence of winds and inertial forces. In an alternate embodiment, the annular closure in combination with retaining enclosures located on the eyeglass temple pieces secures the retainer to the temple pieces.

Abstract: The present multi-purpose eyewear uses a pliable frame and nose bridge in cooperation with strap adjustment and quick release mechanisms to enable multiple uses of the eyewear and adjustment of the eyewear while in place on the head of the wearer. The wraparound frames incorporate a sealant, such as a bonded gel filled rubber, around the lens periphery of the frame to present a comfortable interface between the wearer's skin and the eyewear. The strap adjustment and quick release mechanisms are simple to use and enable the eyewear to be adjusted while in place on the head of the wearer to fit the wearer in a manner to create a water-tight/air-tight seal (fluid-tight seal) around the wearer's eyes in a manner to conform to the contours of the wearer's face and avoid irritation of the skin from prolonged use. The lenses that are used in the eyewear are capable of being manufactured to prescription specifications and can include sunlight protection.

Abstract: A head-mounted carrier for supporting an optical apparatus intended to be positioned in front of at least one eye of a user. The carrier being devised such that en elongate member or a cable, preferably comprising electric or optical conductors connected to components of the optical apparatus, is a part of the carrier itself. The cable is arranged to be applied around a part of the head of a user such that the carrier is clamped or strapped to the user's head.

Abstract: An end fastener for attaching the end of an eyeglass holder cord to a temple leg of eyeglasses, said end fastener comprising a body of elastomeric material having an elongated tubular shape and a hollow core, including a base and at least one open end, and having a long axis defined through said base and said open end, said axis running through the center of said hollow core, said open end being adapted to receive a temple leg of eyeglasses, said base having means for connecting said body at said base to said end of a holder cord, said means for connecting comprising a hole extending completely through said body substantially orthogonally to said axis in the region of said base.

Abstract: This highly balanced, nose-independent type of eyewear device keeps optical devices securely positioned before the eyes in previously unobtained, carefree comfort. It also allows micro-positioning of optical devices at definite placements. Select device of the method likewise stows glasses, handy on, both above and below line-of-sight. The head, including ears is used extensively, but not the nose or other face, except and unless by the margins. Typically tensile strap (70) or one or more rigid cranial-crown extensions (72) [dubbed pate-pieces] extend to the top of the head from somewhere along distally counterweighted, glasses earpieces. Alternately a counterweight-and-support line (34) is strung from a [whimsically chosen] counterbalancing mass (32) behind the head to support the front. Counterpoised cranial support inherently lends more latitude to eyewear design. This type of support promises to spawn an explosion of pleasing, exciting new eyewear.

Abstract: An optical preform is prepared first by depositing soot about a glass subate rod (22) to form a boule. Then the soot boule is sintered to consolidate the material and provide a preform from which optical fiber is drawn. The boule is relatively large so that the resulting preform is capable of providing more optical fiber than those used in the past. In order to be able to sinter successfully the enlarged boule, microwave energy from a furnace (60) is coupled to the glass rod so that the sintering proceeds from the rod radially outwardly thereby allowing gases readily to escape and rendering the process highly efficient.