Abstract:
Eyeglasses comprises a face and temple. The face has an outer surface including an outer edge. The face also has a first end portion and a first lens opening. The outer edge being proximate to the first end portion. The temple has a portion defining an inner surface. The temple is pivotably coupled to the first end portion of the face. The temple is movable between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration so that the inner surface of the temple portion can move over the outer edge of the face without obstruction.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]    This application is related to concurrently filed U.S. Design Patent Application entitled “Eyeglasses Frame with Front-Folding Overlapping Temples,” Attorney Docket No. GRAY020/00US, and is related to concurrently filed U.S. Design Patent Application entitled “Eyeglasses Frame with Front-Folding Parallel Temples,” Attorney Docket No. GRAY021/00US, and is related to concurrently filed U.S. Design Patent Application entitled “Eyeglasses Frame with Front-Folding Crossing Temples,” Attorney Docket No. GRAY022/00US; the disclosures of which are all incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    The invention relates generally to eyeglasses, such as for example sunglasses. More specifically, the invention relates to eyeglasses with rotatable temples where the temples can rotate to the front of the lens(es).  
           [0003]    The lenses of eyeglasses typically need to be protected from abrasion, for example, to maintain an unobstructed view through the lenses for the user. Protection from abrasion can be particularly desirable for lenses that are coated, for example, with polarization-selective coatings. Such forms of protection include, for example, storage cases and anti-scratch lens coatings.  
           [0004]    Such forms of protection, however, have limited effectiveness. For example, storage case can only protect eyeglasses from abrasion when the lenses are stored within the case. This cannot protect the lenses from abrasion when the eyeglasses are, for example, temporarily placed down on a surface. Similarly, anti-scratch lens coatings provide limited protection in such situations.  
           [0005]    Eyeglass designs have been proposed in which the temples can be moved to the front of the eyeglasses frame. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,638,146 to Nannini discloses collapsible eyewear having temples that collapse in the same plane as the lenses. The Nannini eyewear uses two hinges for each temple where one hinge allows the temple to rotate 360°. The temples collapse to reduce the storage space needed when the eyewear is folded.  
           [0006]    U.S. Pat. No. 3,361,515 to Vanderbeek discloses eyewear having temple pieces that are oppositely folding: one temple folds to the front of the eyeglasses and the other temple folds to the rear of the eyeglasses. The hinge of Vanderbeek allows the temples to pivot 270° so that the temple when folded is parallel to its location when unfolded. Correspondingly, the single temple folded to the front of the eyeglasses is parallel to the upper bar of the eyeglasses so that the lenses are only minimally shielded by the temple.  
           [0007]    These known eyeglass designs suffer several shortcomings. They are typically designed to minimize the amount of space needed during storage, but provide little to no shielding of the front side of both lenses. Many of these known eyeglass designs require two hinges for each temple. In addition, they cannot position the temples adjacent to the center portion of the outer side (or front side) of the lens. The center portion of the lens is the portion that the user is most likely to look through and, because of the curvature of typical lenses, the portion of the lens most likely in need of protection from abrasion.  
           [0008]    Thus, a need exists for eyeglasses with rotatable temples where the temples can rotate to the outer side (or front side) of the eyeglasses face.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0009]    Eyeglasses comprises a face and temple. The face has an outer surface including an outer edge. The face also has a first end portion and a first lens opening. The outer edge being proximate to the first end portion. The temple has a portion defining an inner surface. The temple is pivotably coupled to the first end portion of the face. The temple is movable between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration so that the inner surface of the temple portion can move over the outer edge of the face without obstruction. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0010]    [0010]FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of eyeglasses in an unfolded configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention.  
         [0011]    [0011]FIG. 2 shows a top view of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 1.  
         [0012]    [0012]FIG. 3 shows a side view of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 1  
         [0013]    [0013]FIG. 4 shows a front view of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 1.  
         [0014]    [0014]FIGS. 5 through 8 show a front view, a top view, a side view and a perspective view, respectively, of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 1 in a folded configuration.  
         [0015]    [0015]FIGS. 9 through 12 show a front view, a top view, a side view and a perspective view, respectively, of eyeglasses in a folded configuration, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0016]    [0016]FIGS. 13 through 16 shows a front view, a top view, a side view and a perspective view, respectively, of eyeglasses in a folded configuration, according to yet another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0017]    [0017]FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of a portion of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 1.  
         [0018]    [0018]FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0019]    [0019]FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0020]    [0020]FIGS. 20 and 21 show exploded assembly views of hinge portions of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 1.  
         [0021]    [0021]FIG. 22 shows a cross-section view of the hinge portions taken across line  22 - 22  in FIG. 20.  
         [0022]    [0022]FIG. 24 shows an assembly view of hinge portions of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 25 shows an assembly view of hinge portions of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0024]    [0024]FIG. 26 shows an assembly view of hinge portions of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 27 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 28 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0027]    [0027]FIG. 29 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses in a folded configuration, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 30 shows a top view of the portion of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 29 while in the unfolded configuration.  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 31 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 32 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 33 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses having a dual hinge, according to an embodiment of the invention.  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 34 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses having a dual hinge, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 35 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses having a dual hinge, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0034]    [0034]FIG. 36 shows a front view of eyeglasses having dual hinges, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0035]    [0035]FIGS. 37 through 41 show front views of a portion of eyeglasses having a temple retainer, according to five alternative embodiments of the invention.  
         [0036]    [0036]FIGS. 42 through 45 show perspective views of temples while in a folded configuration, according to four embodiments of the invention.  
         [0037]    [0037]FIG. 46 shows a top view of eyeglasses having pivot axes different from the frame normal, according to an embodiment of the invention.  
         [0038]    [0038]FIG. 47 shows a top view of eyeglasses having pivot axes different from the frame normal, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0039]    [0039]FIG. 48 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses face and temples having different degrees of curvature, according to an embodiment of the invention.  
         [0040]    [0040]FIG. 49 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses face and temples having different degrees of curvature, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0041]    [0041]FIG. 50 shows a cross-section view of the hinge portions across line  50 - 50  in FIG. 20.  
         [0042]    [0042]FIG. 51 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a wire frame in a folded configuration with overlapping temples.  
         [0043]    [0043]FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a nosepiece in a folded configuration with overlapping temples.  
         [0044]    [0044]FIG. 53 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a shield in a folded configuration with overlapping temples.  
         [0045]    [0045]FIG. 54 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a wire frame in a folded configuration with parallel temples.  
         [0046]    [0046]FIG. 55 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a nosepiece in a folded configuration with parallel temples.  
         [0047]    [0047]FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a shield in a folded configuration with parallel temples.  
         [0048]    [0048]FIG. 57 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a wire frame in a folded configuration with crossed temples.  
         [0049]    [0049]FIG. 58 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a nosepiece in a folded configuration with crossed temples.  
         [0050]    [0050]FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a shield in a folded configuration with crossed temples  
         [0051]    [0051]FIGS. 60 and 61 shows a top view and a perspective view, respectively, of a portion of eyeglasses in an unfolded, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0052]    [0052]FIG. 62 shows a top view of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 60 in a folded configuration. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0053]    Embodiments of the invention relate to eyeglasses having rotatable temples, where the temples can rotate to the outer side (i.e., the front side) of the eyeglasses face. The eyeglasses face is the portion of the frame which provides structure for the eyeglasses and to which the temples are typically attached. The face can be, for example, the structure within which one or more lenses can be retained. Alternatively, the face can be, for example, a single lens configured like a shield; in such an embodiment, the temples can be attached directly to the lens/face. In another alternative, the face can be, for example, two lenses connected by a nosepiece; in this embodiment, the temples can each be attached directly to a respective lens.  
         [0054]    The inventors have recognized that the lenses can be protected from abrasion by configuring the eyeglasses so that the temples, when rotated to the outer side of the eyeglasses face (in a folded configuration), can be positioned substantially adjacent to the outer side of the lenses and substantially at the center portions of the lenses. Thus, many embodiments, for example, relate to eyeglasses where, in a folded configuration, at least one temple can be positioned substantially adjacent to the outer side of at least one lens and substantially at the center portion of the lens(es). Other embodiments relate to the temples and eyeglasses face having their own degree of curvature that substantially correspond. For example, in such embodiments, the temples and face can form a circular-type shape from a top view.  
         [0055]    Other embodiments relate to hinge mechanisms by which a temple can be pivotably coupled to the face. For example, in one embodiment, the hinge includes a tension member that allows the temple to contact one portion of the eyeglasses face when in a folded configuration and a different contact portion of the eyeglasses face when in an unfolded configuration.  
         [0056]    [0056]FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of eyeglasses according to an embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses  100  include face  110 , temple  120 , temple  130 , lens  140  and lens  150 . Thus, the eyeglasses frame includes face  110 , temple  120  and temple  130 . As shown in FIG. 1, eyeglasses  100  are in an unfolded configuration in which they can be worn by a user. Face  110  includes end portions  111  and  112 . Temple  130  is pivotably coupled to end portion  111  of face  110  and temple  120  is pivotably coupled to end portion  112  of face  110 . Therefore, the temples  120  and  130  are movable and can pivot along pivot axes  125  and  135 , respectively, to the outer side of frame  110 . The pivot connection will be described in further detail below.  
         [0057]    [0057]FIGS. 2 through 4 show a top view, a side view and a front view, respectively, of eyeglasses  100 . Face  110  and temples  120  and  130  each have their own degree of curvature. The term degree of curvature is used herein to indicate the extent to which an arcuate member (or portion thereof) such as face  110  and temples  120  and  130  are curved. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, face  110  and temples  120  and  130  form a continuous, near-circle shape. In such a case the degree of curvature would be related to the radius of curvature for each of those members from the top view. Alternatively the degree of curvature could relate to the relative extent to which members are curved when they do not have a uniform radius of curvature throughout the entire member.  
         [0058]    Temples  120  and  130  can be pivotably rotated around the end portions  111  and  112  of face  110  so that temples  120  and  130  are positioned on the outer side of face  110 . By allowing temples  120  and  130  to be positioned on the outer side of face  110  and adjacent to lenses  140  and  150 , temples  120  and  130  can act to protect lenses  140  and  150  (for example from eyeglasses  100  being placed or dropped face down on a surface). In other words, by positioning temples  120  and  130  over the lenses  140  and  150 , the lenses  140  and  150  can be protected from scratches or damage because the lenses cannot contact, for example, a substantially flat surface against which the eyeglasses may be placed. Furthermore, by allowing temples  120  and  130  to be positioned on the outer side of face  110  and adjacent to lenses  140  and  150 , the eyeglasses can reduce the amount volume needed, for example, while being stored and not in use in a folded configuration.  
         [0059]    As shown in FIG. 2, the angle, y, is defined between the pivot axis  125  and a segment line  129  from the pivot axis  125  to a point of temple  120 . The angle, z, is defined between the pivot axis  125  and a segment line  119  from the pivot axis  125  to a point of face  110 , where the length of segment line  129  is substantially equal to the length of segment line  119 . Similarly, the angle, y′, is defined between the pivot axis  135  and a segment line  139  from the pivot axis  125  to a point of temple  130 . The angle, z′, is defined between the pivot axis  135  and a segment line  119 ′ from the pivot axis  125  to a point of face  110 , where the length of segment line  139  is substantially equal to the length of segment line  119 ′.  
         [0060]    In this embodiment, the angles, y, y′, z and z′ are substantially equal. Consequently, the extent to which a portion of a temple is curved substantially matches the similar portion of the face. Because the degree of curvature of the temples  120  and  130  are substantially equal to the degree of curvature of the face  110 , the temples  120  and  130  are substantially adjacent to the outer side of face  110  when in a folded configuration. In alternative embodiments, the degree of curvature of the temples and face are not substantially equal while the angles, y, y′, z and z′ can be substantially equal. In yet other alternative embodiments, the angles, y, y′, z and z′ need not be substantially equal where the temples can be deformed to be disposed on the outer side of the face.  
         [0061]    [0061]FIGS. 5 through 8 show a front view, a top view, a side view and a perspective view, respectively, of eyeglasses  100  in a folded configuration. As shown in FIG. 5, temples  120  and  130  can be positioned over a central region  141  and  151  of lenses  140  and  150 , respectively. Temples  120  and  130  can be positioned so that one overlaps onto the other. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, temple  130  overlaps temple  120 . In an alternative arrangement, temple  120  can overlap temple  130 .  
         [0062]    The temples can be arranged in different configurations while the eyeglasses are in a folded configuration. For example, FIGS. 9 through 12 show one such alternative temple configuration and FIGS. 13 through 16 show another alternative temple configuration.  
         [0063]    [0063]FIGS. 9 through 12 show a front view, a top view, a side view and a perspective view, respectively, of eyeglasses in a folded configuration, according to another embodiment of the invention.  
         [0064]    Eyeglasses  200  include temple  220 , temple  230 , face  210 , lens  240  and lens  250 . While face  200  is in a folded configuration as shown in FIG. 9, the temples  220  and  230  can be positioned so that temples  220  and  230  are substantially parallel to each other and across lenses  240  and  250 . Although FIG. 9 shows temple  220  positioned above temple  230 , the temples can be arranged differently so that temple  230  is positioned above temple  220 .  
         [0065]    As shown in FIG. 9, temple  220  can be positioned over central region  241  of lens  240  in addition to being positioned over a portion of central region  251  of lens  250 . Similarly, temple  230  can be positioned over central region  251  of lens  250  while also being positioned over a portion of central region  241  of lens  240 .  
         [0066]    [0066]FIG. 13 shows a front view of eyeglasses in a folded configuration, according to yet another embodiment of the invention. FIG. 14 shows a top view of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 13. FIG. 15 shows a side view of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 13. FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 13.  
         [0067]    As shown in FIG. 13, eyeglasses  300  include face  310 , temple  320 , temple  330 , lens  340  and lens  350 . Temple  320  and temple  330  can be positioned so that they cross each other on the outer side of the face  310 . More specifically, temple  320  can be positioned adjacent to lens  340  and center region  341  of lens  340  while also being positioned over a portion of lens  350 . Similarly, temple  330  can be positioned adjacent to lens  350  and central portion  351  of lens  350  while also being positioned over a portion of lens  340 . As shown FIG. 13, temple  320  is positioned between face  310  and temple  330 . Alternatively, temple  330  can be positioned between face  310  and temple  320 .  
         [0068]    [0068]FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of a portion of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 1. More specifically, FIG. 17 shows the end portion  112  of face  110  to which temple  120  is pivotably coupled. As shown by the directional arrow in FIG. 17, the temple  120  can rotate downwardly towards the outer side of face  110  to change eyeglasses  100  from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration. Pivot axis  125  shows the axis about which temple  120  pivots as it moves from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration or vice-versa. Although not shown by FIG. 17, eyeglasses  100  can be converted back from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration by positioning temple  120  back to the location shown in FIG. 17.  
         [0069]    End portion  112  of face  110  includes rotation-limit portions  113  and  114  of face  110 . As shown in FIG. 17, rotation-limit portion  113  is a ledge (or mechanical stop) on face  110  and rotation-limit portion  113  is a shoulder extending from the outer side of face  110 . Rotation-limit portion  113  defines the uppermost position that temple  120  can maintain while in an unfolded configuration. More specifically, temple  120  includes a portion  123  that comes into contact with rotation-limit portion  113  as temple  120  rotates about pivot axis  125 .  
         [0070]    Rotation-limit portion  114  defines the uppermost position that temple  120  can maintain while in a folded configuration (i.e., the position beyond which further motion is limited). More specifically, temple  120  includes a portion  121  that comes into contact with rotation-limit portion  114  as temple  120  rotates about pivot axis  125 . As temple portion  120  moves from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration, temple  120  can rotate, for example, approximately 170° from the position shown in FIG. 17 to the outer side of face  110  while changing from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration.  
         [0071]    [0071]FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses  400  includes face  410  and temple  440 . Face  410  includes end portion  412 . Temple  420  is pivotably coupled to face  410  about pivot axis  425 . As shown in FIG. 18, temple  420  can rotate upwardly about pivot axis  425  to move the temple  420  from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration. Face  410  includes rotation-limit portions  413  and  414 . Rotation-limit portions  413  and  414  are a ledge on face  410  and a shoulder extending from the outer side of face  410 , respectively, and thus, are basically a mirror image of the configuration shown in FIG. 17.  
         [0072]    Rotation-limit portion  413  defines the lowermost position that temple  420  can maintain while in an unfolded configuration. More specifically, temple  420  includes a portion  423  that comes into contact with rotation-limit portion  413  as temple  420  rotates about pivot axis  425 . Rotation-limit portion  414  defines the lowermost position that temple  420  can maintain while in a folded configuration. More specifically, temple  420  includes a portion  421  that comes into contact with rotation-limit portion  414  as temple  420  rotates about pivot axis  425 .  
         [0073]    [0073]FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 19, eyeglasses  500  include face  510  and temple  520 . Face  510  includes end portion  512  to which temple  520  is pivotably coupled about pivot axis  525 . End portion  512  of face  510  also includes retention portions  516  and  517  (shown as protrusions). Temple  520  includes retention portions  526  and  527  (shown as indentations), which complementary fit with retention portions  516  and  517 , respectively. As temple  520  rotates either upwardly or downwardly, retention portions  516  and  517  allow the temple arm to temporarily lock (or snap) into a fixed location when temple  520  is an unfolded configuration. Although two retention portions  516  and  517  are shown in FIG. 19, in alternative embodiments, only a single retention portion (e.g., a single protrusion) and a single complementary retention portion (e.g., a single indentation) are included. Alternatively, almost any number of retention portions are possible. Note also although the retention portions shown in FIG. 19 are shown with a semicircular cross-section, alternative shapes are possible such as for example a rectangular or triangular retention portion (e.g., protrusion) cross-section and a complementary rectangular or triangular retention portion (e.g., indentation) cross-section. Note further that a retention portion set (two of which are shown in FIG. 19) can be combined with a rotation-limit portion (as shown in FIG. 17 and/or FIG. 18).  
         [0074]    [0074]FIGS. 20 and 21 show assembly views of hinge portions of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 20, the end portion  111  of face  110  includes a hinge portion  160 . Hinge portion  160  includes outer rotational-support portion (e.g., track)  161 , inner rotational-support portion (e.g., track)  162 , retention portions (e.g., indentations)  163  and central portion  164 . As shown in FIG. 21, the temple  130  includes a hinge portion  170 . Hinge portion  170  includes an outer post  171 , an inner post  172  and an arm  173 . Hinge portion  170  of temple  130  fits into hinge portion  160  of face  110  to define a pivot axis  125 . Temple  130  can rotate about pivot axis  125  from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration where the temple  130  is positioned adjacent to the outer side of face  110  (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5).  
         [0075]    [0075]FIG. 22 shows a cross-section view of the hinge portions across line  22 - 22  in FIG. 20. FIG. 50 shows a cross-section view of the hinge portions across line  50 - 50  in FIG. 20. As shown in FIGS. 22 and 50, the outer post  171  fits into outer rotational-support portion  161  and inner post  172  fits into central portion  164 . An attachment mechanism  177  can attach the hinge portion  160  and the hinge portion  170  together. The attachment mechanism  177  can be, for example, a threaded screw aligned, for example, along the pivot axis  125  thereby attaching hinge portion  160  and hinge portion  170 . Alternatively, the attachment mechanism  177  can be, for example, a non-threaded pin aligned, for example, along the pivot axis  125 . Such a pin can be, for example, heated during manufacture so that the pin retains the attachment of hinge portions  160  and  170 .  
         [0076]    The arm  173  can travel along inner rotational-support portion  162  when the temple  130  is moved, for example, from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, or vice versa. The arm  173  can complimentarily fit into retention portions  163  thereby temporarily securing the position of temple  130  while in the unfolded configuration or folded configuration. In other words, while in the unfolded or folded configuration, the arm  173  is retained within a retention portion  163  to thereby resist movement of the temple  130  from the temporarily locked position. An axial biasing force, for example, allows the temple  130  to be slightly displaced along the pivot axis  125 . By overcoming this axial biasing force, the arm  173  can be moved away from the retention portion  163  thereby allowing the temple  130  to be unlocked from the unfolded or folded configuration.  
         [0077]    The surface of arm  173  that travels in contact with inner rotational-support portion  162  can have, for example, a rounded convex surface (e.g., a semi-circular cross-section); in such a configuration, the retention portions  163  can have a complimentary concave surface. Alternatively, the arm  173  and retention portions  163  can have other shapes, such as for example, having squared corners.  
         [0078]    [0078]FIG. 23 shows an assembly view of hinge portions of eyeglasses, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 23, the eyeglasses  600  includes end portion  611  of face  610 , and temple  630 . End portion  611  includes hinge portion  660  having outer rotational-support portion (e.g., track)  661  and inner rotational-support portion (e.g., track)  662 . Hinge portion  660  is similar to that described in reference to FIGS. 20 through 22, except that the retention portions  163  within the inner rotational-support portion  662  are not present. Instead, end portion  611  includes retention portions (e.g., indentation)  663  outside of outer rotational-support portion  661  and inner rotational-support portion  662 . Temple  630  includes retention portions (e.g., protrusions)  674  and  675  that extend from temple  630  towards end portion  661  of face  610 . When the temple  630  is positioned in the unfolded configuration, retention portion  675  temporarily locks (or snaps) into retention portion  663 . When the temple  630  is positioned in the folded configuration, retention portion  674  temporarily locks (or snaps) into retention portion  663 . In alternative embodiments, only a single retention portion is included within the temple. Although FIG. 23 only shows the hinge portions for temple  630 , similar hinge portions can exist for the other temple pivotably coupled to the face  610  (not shown). Note that although only two retention portion sets are show in FIG. 23, any number of such retention portion sets can be present, of any appropriate size, at any appropriate location.  
         [0079]    [0079]FIG. 24 shows an assembly view of hinge portions of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 24, eyeglasses  700  includes end portion  711  of face  710 , and temple  730 . End portion  711  includes hinge portion  760  having inner rotational-support portion (e.g., track)  762  with retention portions (e.g., indentations)  763 . Temple  730  includes outer post  771  on which arms  773  are disposed. Outer post  771  fits into inner rotational-support portion  762  and arms  773  temporarily lock (or snap) into mating retention portions  762 . As temple  730  moves from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration (or vice versa), the position of temple  730  can be temporarily locked. Thus, temple  730  can move with a ratchet-type motion thereby temporarily locking the position of temple  730  at the unfolded configuration, the folded configuration, and positions between both.  
         [0080]    [0080]FIG. 25 shows an assembly view of hinge portions of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 25, eyeglasses  800  includes end portion  811  of face  810 , and temple  830 . End portion  811  includes hinge portion  860  having a rotational-support portion (e.g., well)  862  and a tension spring  865 . One end of tension spring  865  can be affixed to a location within rotational-support portion  862  and the other end of tension spring  865  can be affixed to a location on temple  830 . As the movement of temple  830  from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration is initiated, the tension spring  865  can provide a rotation force to cause the temple  830  to move to the folded configuration without further externally applied force. In other words, by tapping temple  830  in the unfolded configuration, the tension spring  865  causes the temple  830  to automatically collapse to the folded configuration. The movement of the temple  830  can be controlled in the unfolded configuration by the mechanical stop  833 . The embodiment shown in FIG. 25 can be combined with other hinge embodiments described herein. Note that although the hinge shown in FIG. 25 relates to the temples automatically collapsing from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration, alternative hinges can be configured to automatically open the temples from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration.  
         [0081]    [0081]FIG. 26 shows an assembly view of hinge portions of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 26, eyeglasses  900  includes end portion  911  of face  910 , and temple  930 . End portion  911  includes hinge portion  960  having a rotational-support portion (e.g., a well)  962  and a rotational-support portion (e.g., a channel)  966 . Rotational-support portion  966  includes retention portions (e.g., indentations)  967  and  968 . Temple  930  includes post  971  on which retention portion (e.g., a protrusion)  973  is disposed. As temple  830  moves from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, retention portion  973  of temple  930  moves within rotational-support portion  966  and temporarily locks (or snaps) into retention portion  968 . Similarly, as temple  830  moves from the folded configuration to the unfolded configuration, retention portion  973  of temple  930  moves within channel  966  and temporarily locks (or snaps) into retention portion  967 .  
         [0082]    [0082]FIG. 27 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 27, eyeglasses  1000  includes end portion  1012  of face  1010 , and temple  1020 . End portion  1012  includes a hinge portion ball  1060 , and temple  1020  includes a socket  1070  into which the hinge portion ball  1060  fits. Thus, hinge portion ball  1060  and socket  1070  form a ball and socket hinge about which temple  1020  can pivot when moving from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration (and vice versa). Temple  1020  includes a rotation-limit portion (e.g., a collar)  1071  that defines the extent about which the ball and socket hinge can rotate. In other words, the ball and socket hinge can rotate about multiple pivot axes within a cone defined by the rotation-limit portion  1071 .  
         [0083]    [0083]FIG. 28 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 28, eyeglasses  1100  includes end portion  1112  of face  1110 , and temple  1120 . Temple  1020  includes an elbow pin  1171  coupled into end portion  1112 . Temple  1120  can pivot about pivot axis  1125  when moving from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration (and vice versa). The pin  1171  can be retained within the hole of face  1110  by, for example, a rivet top or cap (not shown) so that the pin  1171  can rotate within the hole of face  1110 .  
         [0084]    [0084]FIG. 29 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses in a folded configuration, according to another embodiment of the invention. FIG. 30 shows a top view of the portion of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 29 while in the unfolded configuration. Eyeglasses  1120  includes end portion  1212  of face  1210 , and temple  1220 . Temple  1220  is pivotably coupled to face  1210  about pivot axis  1225 . A tension member  1280  is also coupled to temple  1220  and face  1210  about the pivot axis  1225 . The tension member  1280  can be, for example, a spring, that provides a tension force along the pivot axis  1225 . Tension member  1280  causes temple  1220  to be pulled down the pivot axis  1225  when the temple  1220  is moved from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration.  
         [0085]    Said another way, tension member  1280  allows temple  1220  to move along different points of pivot axis  1225  when moving between the unfolded configuration and the folded configuration. More specifically, end portion  1212  includes contact portion  1213  and contact portion  1214 , the locations of which are parallel to different points from the pivot axis  1225 . Contact portion  1214  includes an indentation  1215 . When the temple  1220  is in the folded configuration, temple  1220  is in contact with contact portion  1214 , and a portion  1221  of temple  1220  is temporarily locked (or snapped) within retention portion (e.g., an indentation)  1215 . When the temple is in the unfolded configuration, temple  1220  is in contact with contact portion  1213 . The tension member  1280  allows the temple  1220  to push out along the pivot axis  1225  when in the folded configuration, and allows the temple  1220  to be pulled down along the pivot axis  1225  when in the unfolded configuration.  
         [0086]    [0086]FIG. 31 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 31, eyeglasses  1300  includes temple  1320  and end portion  1313  of face  1310 . Temple  1320  is pivotably coupled to end portion  1313  along pivot axis  1325 .  
         [0087]    [0087]FIG. 32 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses, according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 32, eyeglasses  1400  includes temple  1420  and end portion  1413  of face  1410 . Temple  1420  is pivotable coupled to end portion  1413  along pivot axis  1425 .  
         [0088]    Although the above-described embodiments have related, in general, to a single hinge connection for pivotably coupling a temple to an end portion of the face, more than one hinge connection is possible. For example, two hinge connections can be used to pivotably couple a temple to an end portion of the face to thereby allow the temple to be movable between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration where the temple is on the outer side of the face. As following embodiments illustrate, such a dual hinge can pivotably connect a temple to an end portion of the face, for example, where the corresponding two pivot axes are not parallel. The two hinge connections can be located at different locations of the temple or can be located close together.  
         [0089]    [0089]FIG. 33 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses having a dual hinge, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 33, eyeglasses  1500  has face  1510 , lens  1540  and temple portions  1520  and  1530 . Temple portion  1520  is pivotably coupled to face  1510  along pivot axis  1525  by hinge  1560 . Temple portion  1520  is pivotably coupled to temple portion  1521  along pivot axis  1524  by hinge  1523 . When moving from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temple portion  1521  can be moved along pivot axis  1524  so that temple portion  1521  is parallel to and adjacent with inner side or outer side of temple portion  1520 . Then, temple portion  1521  can be moved along pivot axis  1525  so that temple portion  1520  and  1521  are adjacent to the outer side of face  1510 .  
         [0090]    Although the temples and face shown in FIG. 33 have similar degrees of curvature, alternative embodiments are possible where that is not the case. For example, FIG. 48 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses face and temples having different degrees of curvature, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 48, temple portions  3030  and  3031  can be configured so that, when in a folded configuration, at least a part of the temple portion  3010  is substantially adjacent to a portion of face  3010 . This embodiment illustrates an example where the temple portions have a relatively little to no degree of curvature.  
         [0091]    [0091]FIG. 49 shows a top view of a portion of eyeglasses face and temples having different degrees of curvature, according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 49, temple portions  3130  and  3131  can be configured so that, when in a folded configuration, at least a part of both temple portions  3130  and  3131  is substantially adjacent to a portion of face  3010 .  
         [0092]    [0092]FIG. 34 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses having a dual hinge, according to another embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses  1600  has face  1610 , lens  1640  and temple portions  1620  and  1630 . Temple portion  1620  is pivotably coupled to face  1610  along pivot axis  1625  by hinge  1660 . Temple portion  1620  is pivotably coupled to temple portion  1621  along pivot axis  1624  by hinge  1623 . Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 33, when moving from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temple portion  1621  can be moved along pivot axis  1624  so that temple portion  1621  is parallel to and adjacent with upper side or lower side of temple portion  1620 . Then, temple portion  1621  can be moved along pivot axis  1625  so that temple portion  1620  and  1621  are adjacent to the outer side of face  1610 .  
         [0093]    [0093]FIG. 35 shows a perspective view of a portion of eyeglasses having a dual hinge, according to another embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses  1700  has face  1710 , lens  1740  and temple portions  1720  and  1730 . Temple portion  1720  is pivotably coupled to temple portion  1721  along pivot axis  1724 . Temple portion  1721  is pivotably coupled to face  1710  along pivot axis  1725 . When moving from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temple portion  1720  can be moved along pivot axis  1724 , for example, about 180 degrees. Then, temple portion  1721  can be moved along pivot axis  1725  so that temple portion  1720  is adjacent to the outer side of face  1710 . Note that unlike the dual hinge embodiments shown in FIGS. 33 and 35, the pivot axis  1724  and  1725  of eyeglasses  1700  are located close together and can intersect.  
         [0094]    [0094]FIG. 36 shows a front view of eyeglasses having dual hinges, according to another embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses  1800  has face  1810 , lens  1840  and  1850 , temple portions  1820 ,  1821 ,  1830  and  1831 . Temple portion  1820  is pivotably coupled to temple portion  1821  along pivot axis  1824 . Temple portion  1821  is pivotably coupled to face  1810  along pivot axis  1825 . Temple portion  1830  is pivotably coupled to temple portion  1831  along pivot axis  1834 . Temple portion  1831  is pivotably coupled to face  1810  along pivot axis  1835 . When moving from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration, the temple portion  1821  can be moved along pivot axis  1825 , for example, about 180 degrees so that temple portion  1821  is adjacent to lens  1840  and completes a portion of the perimeter of face  1810 . Similarly, the temple portion  1831  can be moved along pivot axis  1835 , for example, about 180 degrees so that temple portion  1831  is adjacent to lens  1850  and completes a portion of the perimeter of face  1810 . Then, temple portion  1820  can be moved along pivot axis  1824  and temple portion  1830  can be moved along pivot axis  1834 . Of course, the temple portions  1820  and  1830  can be moved along pivot axes  1824  and  1834 , respectively, in any order or simultaneously.  
         [0095]    Note that in this embodiment, when in the folded configuration, the temple portions  1820  and  1830  are adjacent to the opposite lenses  1850  and  1840  while adjacent to the outer side of the face  1810 . In other words, when in the folded configuration, the right temple portion  1820  (from the front view perspective) is adjacent to the left lens  1850 , and the right temple portion  1830  is adjacent to the left lens  1840 . Note that in alternative embodiments, each temple portion can be adjacent to a portion of both lenses.  
         [0096]    Many of the above-described embodiments can have an added feature that allows the temples to be retained on the outer side of the face. More specifically, many of the above-described eyeglasses can have a retention portion (e.g., a protrusion or an elevated structure(s)) on the outer side of the face on to which the temple(s) can temporarily lock (or snap or rest against). Such retention portion(s) can be located in a number of locations on the outer side of the face depending on specific location the temple(s) while in the folded configuration for a particular embodiment.  
         [0097]    [0097]FIG. 37 shows a front view of a portion of eyeglasses having a retention portion, according to an embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses includes face  1910 , temple  1920  and retention portion (e.g., an elevated structure)  1990 . As shown in FIG. 37, retention portion  1990  can be, for example, a protrusion on the outer side of face  1910 . As the temple  1920  is pivotably moved about the face  1910  from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temple  1920  can be temporarily locked (or snapped) into to position on the face  1910  by retention portion  1990 .  
         [0098]    [0098]FIG. 38 shows a front view of a portion of eyeglasses having a retention portion, according to another embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses includes face  2010 , temple  2020  and retention portion  2090 . Here, the retention portion  1920  is located closer to the bridge of the face  2010  than for eyeglasses  1900  shown in FIG. 27.  
         [0099]    [0099]FIG. 39 shows a front view of a portion of eyeglasses having a retention portion, according to yet another embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses includes face  2110 , temple  2120  and retention portions  2190  and  2191 . As shown in FIG. 39, retention portions  2190  and  2191  can be, for example, protrusions on the outer side of face  2110  near the bridge. As the temple  2120  is pivotably moved about the face  2110  from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temple  2120  can be temporarily locked (or snapped) into to position on the face  2110  between retention portions  2190  and  2191 . retention portion  2191  temporarily restricts the upward movement of temple  2120  and retention portions  2190  temporarily restricts the downward movement of temple  2120 .  
         [0100]    [0100]FIG. 40 shows a front view of a portion of eyeglasses having a retention portion, according to an embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses includes face  2210 , temples  2220  and  2230  and retention portions  2290  and  2291 . Here, the retention portions  2220  and  2230  are located on the top portion of the face  2010 . As the temple  2230  is pivotably moved about the face  2110  from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temple  2230  can be temporarily locked (or snapped) into to position on the face  2210  between retention portions  2290  and  2291 . Retention portion  2291  temporarily restricts the upward movement of temple  2230  and retention portion  2290  temporarily restricts the downward movement of temple  2230 .  
         [0101]    [0101]FIG. 41 shows a front view of a portion of eyeglasses having a retention portion, according to an embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses includes face  2310 , temples  2320  and  2330 , and retention portion  2390 . Here, the retention portion  2390  is located on the lower portion of the face  2310 . As the temple  2330  is pivotably moved about the face  2110  from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temple  2330  can be temporarily locked (or snapped) into to position by retention portion  2390 .  
         [0102]    Although FIGS. 37 through 41 show an retention portion(s) for one temple, the remaining temple can also have a similar retention portion(s). The retention portions(s) for the two temples need not be the same, but rather can be a combination of retention portions (s) shown in FIGS. 27 through 41, or combined with a single retention portion or stop.  
         [0103]    Similar to the manner in which the retention portion(s) can be disposed about various locations of the eyeglasses frame, retention portion(s) can also be disposed on the temples themselves. Thus, when the eyeglasses are in a folded configuration, the relative position of the temples with respect to each other can be maintained.  
         [0104]    [0104]FIG. 42 shows a perspective view of temples while in a folded configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 42, the temples  2420  and  2430  can have an interlocking, curved shape. More specifically, temple  2420  can have a concave outer side and temple  2430  can have a convex inner side. When the temples  2420  and  2430  are in an overlapping arrangement (such as that shown, for example, in FIG. 5), the temples can be temporarily locked (or snapped) together.  
         [0105]    [0105]FIG. 43 shows a perspective view of temples while in a folded configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 43, the temples  2520  and  2530  can have a complementary indentation and protrusion. More specifically, temple  2520  can have an indentation  2521  and temple  2530  can have a retention portion (e.g., protrusion)  2531 . When the temples  2520  and  2530  are in an overlapping arrangement (such as that shown, for example, in FIG. 5), the temples can be temporarily locked (or snapped) together.  
         [0106]    [0106]FIG. 44 shows a perspective view of temples while in a folded configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 44, the temples  2620  and  2630  can have an interlocking, curved shape. More specifically, temple  2620  can have a concave upper side and temple  2630  can have a convex lower side. When the temples  2420  and  2430  are in an adjacent arrangement (such as that shown, for example, in FIG. 9), the temples can be temporarily locked (or snapped) together. In an alternative embodiment, the temples can be in an adjacent arrangement switched from that shown in FIG. 44.  
         [0107]    [0107]FIG. 45 shows a perspective view of temples while in a folded configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 45, the temples  2720  and  2730  can have complementary retention portions (e.g., protrusions and indentation, respectively). More specifically, temple  2720  can have retention portion (e.g., protrusions)  2721  and  2722 , and temple  2730  can have retention portion (e.g., an indentation)  2731 . When the temples  2720  and  2730  are in a crossed arrangement (such as that shown, for example, in FIG. 13), the temples can be temporarily locked (or snapped) together. In an alternative embodiment, the temples can be in a crossed arrangement switched from that shown in FIG. 45.  
         [0108]    Although many of the above-described embodiments show the temples being pivotably coupled about a pivot axis that corresponds to a normal axis, other embodiments are possible. For example, where the shape of the temples are not substantially deformable, the temples can have a similar degree of curvature as that of the face. Consequently, as the temples are moved from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temples can be positioned adjacent to the outer side of the frame without substantially deforming the temples. FIGS. 46 and 47 show example of such embodiments.  
         [0109]    [0109]FIG. 46 shows a top view of eyeglasses having pivot axes different from the frame normal, according to an embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses  2800  include a frame  2810 , temple  2820  and temple  2830 . Temple  2820  is pivotably coupled to frame  2810  about pivot axis  2825 . Temple  2830  is pivotably couple to frame  2810  about pivot axis  2835 . As shown in FIG. 46, the pivot axes  2825  and  2835  differ from the normal axes  2824  and  2834 , respectively, at the corresponding locations of the face  2810 . The angle a is defined between the normal axis  2834  and a segment line  2831  from the pivot axis  2835  to a point on the temple  2830 . The angle b is defined between the pivot axis  2835  and the segment line  2831 . For eyeglasses  2800 , the angle a is greater than the angle b. Similar angles exist for temple  2820 . Note that temples  2830  and  2820  have a similar degree of curvature as face  2810 . Consequently, as the temples  2820  and  2830  are moved from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temples  2820  and  2830  can be position adjacent to the outer side of the frame  2810  without substantially deforming the temples.  
         [0110]    [0110]FIG. 47 shows a top view of eyeglasses having pivot axes different from the frame normal, according to another embodiment of the invention. Eyeglasses  2900  include a frame  2910 , temple  2920  and temple  2930 . Temple  2920  is pivotably coupled to frame  2910  about pivot axis  2925 . Temple  2930  is pivotably couple to frame  2910  about pivot axis  2935 . As shown in FIG. 46, the pivot axes  2925  and  2935  differ from the normal axes  2924  and  2934 , respectively, at the corresponding locations of the face  2910 . The angle a′ is defined between the normal axis  2934  and a segment line  2931  from the pivot axis  2935  to a point on the temple  2930 . The angle b′ is defined between the pivot axis  2935  and the segment line  2931 . For eyeglasses  2900 , the angle a′ is less than the angle b′. Similar angles exist for temple  2920 . Note that temples  2930  and  2920  have a similar degree of curvature as face  2910 . Consequently, as the temples  2920  and  2930  are moved from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the temples  2920  and  2930  can be position adjacent to the outer side of the frame  2910  without substantially deforming the temples.  
         [0111]    In alternative embodiments where the temples are deformable, the temples need not have a similar degree of curvature as that of the face. In such embodiments where the angle between the normal axis and the temple is greater than the angle between the pivot axis and the temple, the temples can be deformed to fit around the outer side of the face as the temples are moved from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration. In such embodiments where the angle between the normal axis and the temple is less than the angle between the pivot axis and the temple, the temples can be deformed outwardly to fit around a user&#39;s head when in the unfolded configuration.  
         [0112]    [0112]FIGS. 51 through 50 show alternative embodiments of eyeglasses having either a wire frame, a nose piece, or a shield in a folded configuration with either overlapping, parallel or crossed temples. More specifically, FIG. 51 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a wire frame in a folded configuration with overlapping temples. FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a nosepiece in a folded configuration with overlapping temples. FIG. 53 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a shield in a folded configuration with overlapping temples.  
         [0113]    [0113]FIG. 54 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a wire frame in a folded configuration with parallel temples. FIG. 55 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a nosepiece in a folded configuration with parallel temples. FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a shield in a folded configuration with parallel temples.  
         [0114]    [0114]FIG. 57 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a wire frame in a folded configuration with crossed temples. FIG. 58 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a nosepiece in a folded configuration with crossed temples. FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of eyeglasses having a shield in a folded configuration with crossed temples.  
         [0115]    [0115]FIGS. 60 and 61 shows a top view and a perspective view, respectively, of a portion of eyeglasses in an unfolded, according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 60, eyeglasses  3200  includes face  3210  and temple  3230 . Face  3210  includes lenses  3240  and  3250 , and end portion  3211 . End portion  3211  includes a channel through which temple  3230  is slidably coupled. Temple  3230  includes a stop portion  3231 .  
         [0116]    [0116]FIG. 62 shows a top view of the eyeglasses shown in FIG. 60 in a folded configuration. Temple  3230  can be slid through the channel of end portion  3211  and along directional line  3225  when being moved from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, and vice versa. Temple  3230  can have a frictional fit within the channel of end portion  3211 . This friction fit can be overcome so that the temple  3230  can be moved within the channel of end portion  3211 . When the temple  3230  is in the folded configuration, the temple is positioned on the outer side of face  110  and adjacent to the lenses  3240  and  3250 .  
         [0117]    The stop portion  3231  of temple  3230  can have a shape (for example a flared portion) that defines the end at which the temple  3230  can be slide within the channel of end portion  3211 . As the eyeglasses  3200  are moved from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration, the stop portion  3231  stops the movement of temple  3230  within the channel of end portion  3211 .  
         [0118]    Although the eyeglasses  3200  can show in FIGS. 60 through 62 as rimless glasses, other types of faces (e.g., a shield or wire frame) are possible. For such alternative types of faces, the end portion of the face can be, for example, integrally formed with the face. In addition, many of the various embodiments discussed herein can be combined with a eyeglasses having a temple slidably coupled to a face similar to that described in reference to FIGS. 60 through 62.  
         [0119]    Many alternative embodiments are possible that combine various aspects of different eyeglasses designs; in other words, any combination of one or more aspects described below. More specifically, many of the different eyeglasses components discussed herein can be combined to produce various types and styles of eyeglasses. For example, the temples and face can have a uniform or varied relative thickness or thinness to provide for various shapes. The temples, for example, can be straight along its length, or include a bend or curve. The ear portion can be curved, straight, or twisted. The end of the ear portion can terminate in all types of shapes such as a square, circular, or pointed edge. The face can be comprised of a frame that completely encases a lens or lenses or it can simply be attached to a small portion of the lens(es); for example, a face could be comprised of two lenses attached via only a nose bridge. Although the above-described embodiments typically show the temple being attached to the upper portion of the face side, the temples can be attached to the face at any appropriate location, such as for example, at upper, middle or lower portions of the face. The temples and face can be constructed of any appropriate materials such as, for example, metal, wire, rubber or plastic. The temples and face can also be comprised of more than one shape or material in combination. For instance, a temple can be part thick plastic and part thin metal. The eyeglasses can include one or more lenses within the face; the lens(es) can be of any appropriate shape such as for example circular, oval, non-symmetrical oval, triangular, hexagon, octagon, novel shapes (e.g., heart shaped and star shaped), square or rectangular with squared or rounded corners, or any appropriate variation. Embodiments having a single lens are possible where a face is not present and the temples can be attached directly to the lens. The eyeglasses face can be configured with or without nose contact attachments.  
         [0120]    While various embodiments of the invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.  
         [0121]    The previous description of the embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the invention. While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.