Methods and apparatus for ear protection
US9591879B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 24, 2011 |
| Grant date | Mar 14, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 13, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA45D44/12
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Methods and apparatus are provided for protecting the external ear from the elements, heat, cold, wind, rain and/or snow. In some embodiments, an ear protector comprises a conforming anchor with an opening through which the external ear may be passed. The ear protector further comprises an insulating outer covering that, in combination with the anchor, forms the ear protector with a chamber positioned between the outer covering and the anchor. During use, the chamber is configured to receive the external ear, with the anchor's opening conformably positioned in proximity to at least a portion of the ear's root. The perimeter of the conforming anchor's opening resiliently deforms during passage of the external ear through the opening and into the chamber, and then conforms to the geometry of at least a portion of the ear root in order to securely and comfortably maintain the ear protector in position over the external ear without additional external support. The conforming anchor preferably is fabricated from a closed cell foamed elastomer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.