Abstract:
A headgear accessory attachment apparatus includes a band having an adjustable size for fitting about a circumference of various outdoor sports helmets such as bicycle, skateboarding, snow sport, mountaineering, equestrian helmets, military helmets, and hard hats used in material moving, dock loading, and airport baggage handling. The accessory attachment apparatus provides the wearer an easy means to attach headgear accessories such as headlamps, helmet cameras, rear lights, goggles, visors, brims, and decorative embellishments to the helmet. The accessories may be permanently or temporarily secured to the accessory apparatus. In one headgear accessory attachment apparatus, the band includes a stop surface that opposes a bottom surface of the headgear when the apparatus is affixed to the headgear such that the apparatus is prevented from becoming dislodged during use.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present invention claims the benefit of provisional patent application No. 61/699,723, filed Sep. 11, 2012; and provisional patent application No. 61/578,218 filed Dec. 20, 2011, and design patent application Ser. No. 29/430,311, filed Aug. 23, 2012. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates to an apparatus for removably attaching accessories to the protective headgear such as outdoor sports helmets, hard hats, and military helmets. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Certain headgear, such as various helmets and hard hats, may be used with accessories, such as, for example, a headlamp or brim. Typically, the headlamp includes an elastic band which is placed over the helmet and grips the circumference of the helmet. 
         [0004]    The elastic bands, however, are prone to unintentionally detach from the helmet. This problem arises because of the odd shapes of the helmets. Odd shapes of bicycle helmets make it difficult to use the elastic bands of the headlamps to securely attach the accessory to the helmet. The bands slide off. Additionally, a number of outdoor sports helmets are tapered which makes it nearly impossible to use the elastic bands of headlamps. The elastic constricts and unintentionally pops off. 
         [0005]    Clips are one alternative to elastic bands. A few hard hats or helmets for military use mountaineering, skiing, and snowboarding have clips pre-integrated into the helmet that secure the helmet to the headlamp. However, most skateboarding, bicycling, paddling, rollerblading, equestrian, and similar sports do not have a pre-integrated clip system for attaching a headlamp strap. The clips are generally hard, sometimes with sharp edges, and pose a safety hazard if they become dislodged in a crash. Additionally, clips may require drilling holes in the helmet to accommodate their attachment. 
         [0006]    Adhesives are another alternative. However, the chemicals in the adhesives have the potential to damage the integrity of the headgear, compromising safety. This is undesirable. 
         [0007]    Outdoor sports are performed at many times of the day and night and require different accessories. A visor or brim may be used during the daytime and a headlamp and rear light may be used at night. This requires the wearer of the helmet to change out accessories over the course of a day. Current clips for accessories are specific to each accessory, requiring the user to bring multiple sets of hardware when accessories are changed. 
         [0008]    Many outdoor sports enthusiasts participate in multiple sports and have helmets specifically designed for each sport. Having multiple helmets requires the purchase and use of multiple accessory attachment receptacles that are adhered to each helmet, which is highly inconvenient and bulky. 
         [0009]    Headgear accessories and their attachment devices are often subjected to strong forces. A snowboarder or cyclist, for example, travels at high speeds and consequently subjects his helmet and accessories to large winds that could dislodge the accessory. 
         [0010]    A number of accessory attachment devices seek to attach the accessory to headgear, including U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,224,694; 6,009,561; 7,636,954 B2; and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2009/0038056; 2009/0077721; 2010/0325784, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. However, these tend to suffer from the shortcomings described above. 
         [0011]    Accordingly, there is a need for an apparatus that addresses the above mentioned challenges and that easily and securely mounts accessories to protective headgear without the use of glues or directly mounted clips. There is also a need for an apparatus that provides an easy way to interchange headgear accessories. There is a need for an apparatus that can attach to, and operate with, various headgear to provide the wearer with desired accessories despite the speed and conditions arising from the environment or sport. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    An accessory attachment apparatus for attaching to a sports helmet comprises an adjustably-sized band member for fitting about the circumference of the sports helmet. The accessory attachment apparatus also includes an accessory connector disposed on the band member for mounting a headgear accessory such as, for example, a headlamp, headphones, ear muffs, ear plug, camera, mirror, or brim to the band member. The accessory attachment apparatus also includes a stop disposed on a lower region of the band member. The stop is engagable with the lower surface of the helmet thereby preventing the apparatus from rising upwards on the helmet. 
         [0013]    In another embodiment an accessory attachment apparatus for attaching to headgear comprises a band member comprising an upper section, a lower section, and a middle section. The band member has an adjustably sized opening for detachably fitting about the circumference of the headgear. The headgear may be a sports or work helmet. In one embodiment the headgear is a bike helmet. 
         [0014]    In another embodiment, a band member has a first or resting configuration when not detachably fit to the headgear, and a second active configuration different than the resting configuration when the band member is detachably fit to the headgear. A bottom section of the band member is flexible, conforming, and floppy when in the resting state. In contrast, when the band member is in the second or active state, and the band member is securely fitted to the headgear, a clamping or lower stop surface is formed which cooperates with the band member to engage a lower surface of the headgear, thereby preventing the apparatus from rising upwards on the headgear. 
         [0015]    The accessory attachment apparatus also includes at least one accessory connector disposed on the middle section of the band member for mounting a headgear accessory to the band member. 
         [0016]    The accessory attachment apparatus also includes a clamping surface disposed on the bottom section of the band member when the band is actively engaged with the headgear. The clamping surface engages the lower surface of the headgear thereby preventing the apparatus from rising or rotating upwards on the headgear. 
         [0017]    In another embodiment the clamping surface is located in the front of the band. The clamping surface engages the lower surface of the front of the headgear. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment the apparatus comprises an upper band size adjustment member to adjust the diameter of the band to securely fit the headgear. 
         [0019]    In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a bottom band size adjustment member to adjust the diameter of the band to securely fit the headgear in addition to the upper band size adjustment member. 
         [0020]    In another embodiment the size adjustment member is a rope. 
         [0021]    In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a primary size adjustment member to adjust the size of the band to securely fit about the circumference of the headgear. However, in embodiments the apparatus may have an upper size adjustment member, a lower size adjustment member, a primary size adjustment member, or any combination thereof. 
         [0022]    In another embodiment the apparatus comprises an inner section of anti-slip material. 
         [0023]    In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a pocket for receiving a visor integrated with the headgear. 
         [0024]    In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a frontal reinforcing flap for further securing the apparatus to the headgear and for preventing upward rotation of the apparatus. 
         [0025]    In another embodiment the accessory connector operates by snap fit. In another embodiment the connector is a clip having a recess for receiving a plug portion. The plug is secured to the accessory. 
         [0026]    In another embodiment the headgear accessory apparatus is a decorative embellishment. The decorative embellishment is a pin in one embodiment. In another embodiment the decorative embellishment is a ribbon. 
         [0027]    In another embodiment a headgear system comprises a headgear and a headgear accessory attachment device adapted to detachably fit on the exterior of the headgear. 
         [0028]    In another embodiment an accessory attachment apparatus for attaching to a headgear apparatus comprises a band member for detachably fitting about the circumference of the headgear. The apparatus further includes a lower stop which cooperates with the band member to engage the lower surface of the headgear thereby preventing the apparatus from rising upwards on the headgear. The headgear accessory apparatus additionally includes an accessory permanently mounted to the band member. The accessory is selected from the group consisting of a headlamp, goggle, headphone, ear muffs, ear plug, night vision goggle, helmet camera, rear light, visor, brim, and mirror. 
         [0029]    In another embodiment, the band member has an adjustable size feature for snugly securing the band to the circumference of various sized headgear. In another embodiment, the adjustable size feature comprises a rope and clip. 
         [0030]    In another embodiment, the apparatus further comprises an upper band size adjustment member to adjust the diameter of the band member to securely fit the headgear. 
         [0031]    In another embodiment, an accessory attachment apparatus for attaching to a sports helmet comprises a band member sized for fitting about the circumference of the sports helmet. The accessory attachment apparatus also includes an accessory connector disposed on the band member for mounting a headgear accessory such as, for example, a headlamp, camera, mirror, mosquito netting, or brim to the band member. The accessory attachment apparatus also includes a stop disposed on a lower region of the band member. The stop is engagable with the lower surface of the helmet thereby preventing the apparatus from rising upwards on the helmet. In one embodiment, the band member comprises a fixed size. 
         [0032]    In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a band size adjustment feature for adjusting the size of the band member to snugly fit and secure to the circumference of various sized headgear. 
         [0033]    In another embodiment, an accessory attachment apparatus for attaching to a sports helmet comprises a band member sized for fitting about the circumference of the sports helmet. The band member also includes spatial control members that create a shape in the flexible band for receiving the shape of the headgear. A size adjustment feature such as a strap and buckle cooperates with the flexible band to snugly engage the headgear after tensioning. 
         [0034]    In another embodiment, the apparatus has a flexible band that is pre-contoured to receive the shape of the headgear. The pre-contoured flexible band achieves a custom fit to the headgear by tightening a size adjustment feature. 
         [0035]    In another embodiment, the apparatus has a flexible band with a smaller lower section circumference compared to the upper section on the flexible band. 
         [0036]    In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a flexible band member and a visor bill accessory. The visor bill accessory is attached to the flexible band member so as to form a gap between the visor bill and flexible band, allowing air to pass there through when traveling at speed or encountering wind. 
         [0037]    In another embodiment, the apparatus is attached to a brim accessory with a lateral adjustment feature. 
         [0038]    In another embodiment, the apparatus is attached to a brim accessory with a removable stiffener. 
         [0039]    In another embodiment, an apparatus for securely holding headgear accessories onto headgear, such as helmets and hard hats, in the environment in which the headgear and accessory is designed to be used, namely outdoors, windy conditions, or high speeds, is provided without the use of glue, velcro, or screw-type fasteners to secure the headgear accessory to the helmet. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0040]      FIG. 1  is a top view of a headgear accessory attachment apparatus; 
           [0041]      FIG. 2  is a bottom view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0042]      FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0043]      FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0044]      FIG. 5  is a side view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 1  secured to a helmet; 
           [0045]      FIG. 6  is a bottom view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus and helmet of  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0046]      FIG. 7 a    is a top view of another headgear accessory attachment apparatus; 
           [0047]      FIGS. 7 b -7 c    are front and side views respectively of a headlamp with a loop member; 
           [0048]      FIGS. 8 a -8 f    show various views of a camera accessory and connector assembly; 
           [0049]      FIG. 9 a    is a perspective view of a headgear accessory attachment apparatus and a connector portion; 
           [0050]      FIGS. 9 b -9 f    are illustrations of various types of accessories and connector components to attach to the headgear accessory attachment apparatus shown in  FIG. 9   a;    
           [0051]      FIG. 10 a    is a bottom view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 7 ; 
           [0052]      FIG. 10 b    is a front perspective view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 7 ; 
           [0053]      FIG. 10 c    is a rear perspective view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 7 ; 
           [0054]      FIG. 11  is a side view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 7  secured to a helmet; 
           [0055]      FIG. 12  is a bottom view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus and helmet of  FIG. 11 ; 
           [0056]      FIG. 13  is a top view of another headgear accessory attachment apparatus including a front support; 
           [0057]      FIG. 14  is a top view of another headgear accessory attachment apparatus including a visor-receiving front pocket. 
           [0058]      FIG. 15  is a top view of another headgear accessory attachment apparatus; 
           [0059]      FIG. 16 a    is a bottom view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus shown in  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0060]      FIG. 16 b    is a partial perspective view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus shown in  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0061]      FIG. 17 a    is a rear view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0062]      FIG. 17 b    is a partial rear view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0063]      FIG. 18  is a front view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0064]      FIG. 19 a    is a top view of an accessory to be used with the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0065]      FIG. 19 b    is a bottom view of an accessory to be used with the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0066]      FIG. 20 a    is a front view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 15  attached to the accessory of  FIGS. 19 a  and 19 b    with the assembly turned upside down; 
           [0067]      FIG. 20 b    is a partial perspective rear view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus of  FIG. 15  attached to the accessory of  FIGS. 19 a    and  19   b;    
           [0068]      FIG. 21  is a side view of the headgear accessory apparatus of  FIG. 15  and the accessory of  FIGS. 19 a  and 19 b    attached to headgear; 
           [0069]      FIG. 22  is a rear perspective view of another headgear accessory attachment apparatus with an accessory; 
           [0070]      FIG. 23  is a top view of another headgear accessory attachment apparatus with an accessory; 
           [0071]      FIG. 24  is a front view of another headgear accessory attachment apparatus with an accessory attached to a helmet; 
           [0072]      FIG. 25  is a partial perspective bottom view of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus with accessory of  FIG. 24 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0073]    Before the present invention is described in detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular variations set forth herein as various changes or modifications may be made to the invention described and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other several embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s) to the objective(s), spirit or scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the claims made herein. 
         [0074]    Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recited events which is logically possible, as well as the recited order of events. Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. 
         [0075]    All existing subject matter mentioned herein (e.g., publications, patents, patent applications and hardware) is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety except insofar as the subject matter may conflict with that of the present invention (in which case what is present herein shall prevail). 
         [0076]    Reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there are plural of the same items present. More specifically, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “said” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation. It is also to be appreciated that unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. 
         [0077]      FIGS. 1-6  illustrate a headgear accessory attachment apparatus  10  for use on protective headgear  40 , such as outdoor sports helmets, military helmets, and hard hats. As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the apparatus  10  comprises a flexible band  12  defining an opening  14  through which at least a portion of the headgear can pass or fit. The band  12  may be contiguous or may have ends  16 A and  16 B, as shown in  FIG. 1 . The ends  16 A,  16 B may be brought closer together via a size adjustment feature  17 , shown as a strap  18  and buckle  20  in  FIG. 4 , or other suitable device. The size adjustment feature or means adjusts the diameter of the opening  14  as shown by the strap  18  in  FIGS. 5-6 , to accommodate helmet  40 . The band is shown secured about the circumference of the helmet  40 . It is to be understood, however, that although the size adjustment member is shown as a strap  18  in  FIGS. 1-6 , the size adjustment feature or means may take other forms and include but is not limited to complementary hook and loop straps, interlocking buckles, snaps, elastic, and other devices. 
         [0078]    In  FIGS. 1-6 , the accessory attachment apparatus  10  is shown having an accessory  30  permanently mounted to the attachment apparatus  10  and a headlamp is depicted as the accessory. However, it is to be understood that any number of accessories commonly used with headgear, such as headlamps, goggles, night vision goggles, helmet cameras, rear lights, visors, brims, decorative material, decorative embellishments, and other devices may be attached to the attachment apparatus  10 . The accessory  30  may be attached anywhere on the attachment apparatus  10  provided the accessory still remains functional. 
         [0079]    The attachment apparatus  10  may be made of a wide variety of materials. Examples of materials include without limitation cotton, nylon, polyester, fabric blends, foam, coated foams, lightweight and flexible plastic, or other suitable material. 
         [0080]    The band  12  may also have a section of anti-slip material  36  to facilitate frictional engagement with the headgear  40 . The anti-slip material  36  may be made of rubber, rubberized fabrics, coated foam, combinations thereof, or other suitable material. 
         [0081]    In  FIG. 1 , the anti-slip area  36  is shown on an inner surface of the apparatus  10 . The band  12  shown in  FIG. 1  has a top  12 A and bottom  12 B. The band  12  may have a bottom size adjustment feature or member  50  that allows for adjustment of the length at the band bottom  12 B. This bottom size adjustment member  50  is illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6  as a channel  52  in the band bottom  12 B through which a rope  54  is passed and a cordlock  56  retains the rope  54  in the desired position. The bottom size adjustment feature  50  is not limited to the channel  52 , rope  54  and cordlock  56  device illustrated in the figures but may include straps and buckles, hook and loop straps, elastic, magnets, and other suitable devices. 
         [0082]    With reference to  FIGS. 1-4 , the apparatus and band are shown at rest and without headgear. In the first or rested state, the band is flexible, loose, or floppy. In the first state, the band is not firm. In contrast, and with reference to  FIGS. 5-6 , the band is shown in an active state or second configuration. The second state or configuration is different than the first state. The band shown in  FIGS. 5-6  is tight, or taut, about a lower portion of the headgear  40 . In particular, in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 6 , the bottom size adjustment member  50  creates a firm clamping or stop surface  60  when properly attached to the headgear  40 . The stop  60  opposes a portion of the underside of the headgear  40  (e.g., a lower edge of the helmet) and prevents the attachment apparatus  10  from coming off the headgear  40  in an upward direction during use and allows for secure attachment of the apparatus  10  to the headgear  40 . 
         [0083]    In  FIG. 5 , the stop surface  60  is shown having an arcuate profile. However the shape of the stop surface may vary. In embodiments the stop surface may have less curvature. For example, the stop surface may comprise planar surfaces which intersect at an angle. The angle may range from 1 to 180 degrees, more preferably from 5 to 140 degrees, and in some embodiment from 90 to 135 degrees. 
         [0084]    Additionally, in  FIG. 5 , the band profile as a whole is shown having a U-shape. However, the band  12  may have other profiles including, for example, a V-shape. 
         [0085]    The clamping or stop surface  60  arises from the design of the attachment apparatus  10  and may be accomplished in a number of ways. For example, as an alternative to the bottom size adjustment member  50  shown in  FIGS. 1-6 , the band  12  may have a spatial control member that serves to control the spacing of the band bottom  12 B relative to the rest of the band and that forms a stop surface  60  when properly attached to the headgear. Examples of spatial control members include but are not limited to stitches, clips, staples, ties, etc. The spatial control feature may not be externally visible and can be hidden during manufacture of the apparatus. Additional examples of stop surfaces which may be combined with the accessory apparatus described herein for engaging the headgear are shown and described in Provisional Patent Application No. 61/445,031, filed Feb. 21, 2011, and entitled “BRIM FOR ATTACHING TO HEADWEAR”; Provisional Patent Application No. 61/480,004, filed Apr. 28, 2011, and entitled “BRIM FOR ATTACHING TO HEADWEAR”; Non-provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/400,309, filed Feb. 20, 2012, and entitled “BRIM FOR ATTACHING TO HEADGEAR”; and design patent application Ser. Nos. 29/403,699, entitled “SPORTS HELMET BRIM”, and Ser. No. 29/403,703, entitled “BIKE HELMET BRIM”, both of which were filed Oct. 10, 2011; and Ser. No. 29/430,311, entitled “HEADGEAR VISOR”, and filed Aug. 23, 2012. 
         [0086]      FIGS. 1-6  show band  12  having an upper size adjustment member  70 . It is used to control the length of the band top  12 A relative to the length of the remainder of the band. The upper size adjustment member  70  is illustrated in  FIGS. 1-5  as a channel  72  in the band top  12 A through which an upper rope  74  is passed and a cordlock  76  retains the upper rope  74  in the desired position. The upper size adjustment feature  70  is not limited to the channel  72 , rope  74  and cordlock  76  device illustrated in the figure but may include, for example, straps and buckles, hook and loop straps, elastic, and other suitable devices. The upper size adjustment feature  70  is used to securely hold the band  12  against the headgear and to prevent the weight of an accessory  30  from flopping down the band. 
         [0087]    In a method of using the apparatus with a helmet, the apparatus  10  is pulled over the headgear  40 , with the headgear  40  going through the opening  14  of the band  12  and engaging the anti-slip material  36 , as shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 . When the apparatus  10  is affixed to the headgear, the band  12  is adapted to form a clamping or stop surface  60 , wherein the stop surface provides secure attachment to the headgear and prevents upward rotation. 
         [0088]      FIGS. 7-12  illustrate another headgear accessory attachment apparatus  110  for use on protective headgear  140 , such as outdoor sports helmets, military helmets, and hard hats. The apparatus  110  comprises a flexible band  112  defining an opening  114  through which at least a portion of the headgear can fit or pass. The band  112  may be contiguous or may have ends  116 A and  116 B, as shown in  FIG. 7 a   . The opening  114  is defined by band  112 , if contiguous, or by bringing the ends  116 A,  116 B closer together via a strap  118  and buckle  120 , as shown in  FIG. 10C , or other suitable device. The size adjustment assembly or means  117  adjusts the diameter of the opening  114  to accommodate headgear of varying size. The size adjustment member may vary, and may include but is not limited to complementary hook and loop straps, interlocking buckles, snaps, elastic, magnets, and other devices. 
         [0089]    With reference to  FIG. 7 a   , the accessory attachment apparatus  110  is shown with a detached accessory  130 . The accessory  130  and apparatus  110  have complementary engaging devices or connector assembly  132 A and  132 B. The complementary engaging devices or accessory connectors may consist of but are not limited to hook and loop fasteners, male and female sides of snaps, mating clips, magnets, complementary click together devices, VELCRO®, a strap fastened to the band member and a hook, clip, or other suitable device that can hang on the fastened strap, and other suitable materials. The complementary engaging devices  132 A and  132 B may be positioned on any location of the accessory  130  and apparatus  110 , respectively, except locations that prohibit functionality. For example, Velcro strip  132 B may be adhered or stitched to the band and the complimentary Velcro  132 A may be bonded or otherwise joined to the headlamp  130  or other accessory.  FIG. 11  shows the accessory  130  secured to apparatus  110  via the connector assembly. 
         [0090]      FIGS. 7 b -7 c    show an alternative to the complementary engaging components shown in  FIG. 7 a   . The accessory  130  shown in  FIG. 7 c    includes a band engaging member such as a loop  132 C. Non limiting examples of band engaging members include: a loop, hook, C-shaped partially closed loop, clip, or other suitable device. The band engaging member has a receiving space  132 D for receiving a portion of the band member. A portion of the flexible band member extends through the engaging member receiving space. The band  112  slides through the loop or clip and is held in place with the tension generated between the inner surface of the band  112  and the headgear  140  after the apparatus  110  has been tightened onto the headgear  140 . This alternative would not require a complementary engaging device  132 B on the apparatus  110  shown in  FIG. 7 a   . The loop  132 C or clip may be contiguous or only partially encompassing the band  112 . Additionally, the loop  132 C could have a one side of a complementary engaging device for use with various accessories containing the mating complement. 
         [0091]      FIGS. 8 a -8 f    show another connector assembly or connector means  420  for mounting an accessory  400  to the helmet accessory band  112 . The accessory  400  shown in  FIGS. 8 a -8 f    is a camera. An example of a camera is the HD Hero manufactured by GoPro (Half Moon Bay, Calif., USA). 
         [0092]    The connector assembly  420  shown in  FIGS. 8 a -8 f    includes two components  403  and  410  which are adapted to complimentary engage with one another. In particular, in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 8 a -8 f   , a base component  403  includes a plate  402  and two arm members  404  which protrude from the plate  402  and form a slot or cavity for receiving a complimentary plug component  410 . The base  403  is shown attached to the camera  400 , and the plug  410  is shown attached to the helmet accessory band  112 . 
         [0093]    The plug  412  is inserted into the cavity or slot of the base  403 . The components may be designed so that they are snap or friction fit together. Also, as shown, one or more protrusions  406  extend from the base  402  and snap fit into a locking engagement with dimples  408  in the plug  410 . However, as discussed herein, the connector components may vary widely and are not to be limited to a particular structure or shape except where specifically recited in the appended claims. Additionally, the connector components may be mounted differently than shown. The plug member  410  may be mounted to the accessory  400  and the base may be mounted to the band  112 , or vice versa. 
         [0094]    The type of accessories may vary widely.  FIGS. 9 a -9 f    illustrate a band  112  and various accessories commonly used with headgear and which may be attached to the headgear such as a helmet (not shown). The accessories shown in  FIGS. 9 b -9 f    are equipped with a plug type connector which engages a base connector  412  on the band  112 . However, as described above, the connector assemblies may vary and other types of connectors may be used to secure the accessory to the band  112 . 
         [0095]      FIG. 9 b    shows a rear view mirror which may be connected to band  112 . An example of this accessory is the Blackburn Bike Helmet Mirror, manufactured by Easton Bell Sports Inc. (Van Nuys, Calif.). 
         [0096]      FIG. 9 c    shows night vision goggles which may be connected to band  112 . An example of this accessory is LNPBG-1 1x Premium Night Vision Goggles, manufactured by Luna Optics (Staten Island, N.Y.). 
         [0097]      FIG. 9 d    shows ski goggles which may be connected to band  112 . An example of this accessory is Recoil XI Goggle, manufactured by Scott Sports (Givisiez, Switzerland). 
         [0098]      FIG. 9 e    shows a visor or brim  520  which may be connected to band  112 . Additionally, the brim  520  includes multiple connectors. A plug connector  522  is shown in the front center portion of the brim. Additional connector features  524  and  526  are shown to the left and right of the plug connector  522 . The additional connector features may be provided to further secure the brim to the band  112 . Indeed, multiple connector features, at multiple locations, may be provided to secure the accessory to the band. 
         [0099]      FIG. 9 f    shows a design embellishment  550 , namely a star shaped pin, which may be connected to band  112 . Though a star shape is shown, any type of design, logo, ribbon, or indicia, may be joined to the band. 
         [0100]    Still other accessories than that described above may be secured to the headgear using band  112 . Non limiting examples include headlamps, goggles, night vision goggles, helmet cameras, rear lights, visors, brims, decorative material, headphones, ear muffs, ear plugs, decorative embellishments, mosquito netting, and other devices may be attached to the attachment apparatus  110  with a connector. 
         [0101]    The attachment apparatus  110  shown in  FIGS. 7-12  may be made of similar materials to those described above in connection with the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-6 . The band  112  may also have a section of anti-slip material  136  to facilitate frictional engagement with the headgear  140 . The anti-slip material  136  may be made of rubber, rubberized fabrics, coated foam, combinations thereof, or other suitable material. 
         [0102]    The band  112  depicted in  FIGS. 7-12  has a top  112 A and bottom  112 B. The band  112  may have a bottom size adjustment feature  150  that allows for adjustment of the length at the band bottom  112 B. The bottom size adjustment feature  150  illustrated in  FIGS. 7-12  comprises a channel  152  in the band bottom  112 B through which a rope  154  is passed and a cordlock  156  retains the rope  154  in the desired position. The bottom size adjustment member  150 , however, is not limited to a channel  152 , rope  154  and cordlock  156  device illustrated in the figure but may include a wide variety of other types of adjustment members including, for example, straps and buckles, hook and loop straps, elastic, and other suitable devices. 
         [0103]    The bottom size adjustment feature  150  is used to create a stop surface  160  when properly attached to the headgear  140 . The stop or clamping surface  160  opposes a portion of the underside of the headgear  140  (e.g., an edge) and prevents the attachment apparatus  110  from coming off the headgear  140  in an upward direction during use and allows for secure attachment of the apparatus  110  to the headgear  140 . 
         [0104]    The stop surface  160  arises from the design of the attachment apparatus  110  and may be accomplished in a number of ways. For example, as an alternative to the bottom size adjustment feature  150  described above, the band  112  may have a spatial control member that serves to control the spacing of the band bottom  112 B relative to the rest of the band and that forms a stop surface  160  when properly attached to the headgear. Examples of spatial control members include but are not limited to stitches, clips, staples, ties, etc. The spatial control feature may not be externally visible and can be hidden during manufacture of the apparatus. The spatial control feature may vary. Additionally, the band bottom  112 B can be shortened relative to the region of the band  112  above the band bottom  112 B to preserve functionality of the stop surface  160  when the apparatus  110  is placed on headgear. 
         [0105]    The band  112  may have an upper size adjustment feature or member  170  that is used to control the length of the band top  112 A relative to the length of the remainder of the band. The upper size adjustment feature  170  is illustrated in  FIGS. 7-12  as a channel  172  in the band top  12 A through which an upper rope  174  is passed and a cordlock  176  retains the upper rope  174  in the desired position. However, the upper size adjustment feature  170  is not limited to the channel  172 , rope  174 , and cordlock  176  device illustrated in the figure but may include straps and buckles, hook and loop straps, elastic, and other suitable devices. The upper size adjustment feature  170  is used to securely hold the band  112  against the headgear and to prevent the weight of an accessory  130  from flopping down the band. 
         [0106]    In a method of using an accessory apparatus with a helmet, the apparatus  110  is pulled over the headgear  140 , with the headgear  140  going through the opening  114  of the band  112  and engaging the anti-slip material  136  by tightening the size adjustment member or assembly  117 , as shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 . When the apparatus  110  is affixed to the headgear, the band  112  is adapted to form a stop surface  160 , wherein the stop surface provides secure attachment to the headgear and prevents upward rotation. After installation, the band deforms and wraps around the helmet to provide a conforming and secure fit. An accessory  130  can be changed out at will via a complementary engaging device  132 A,  132 B or by sliding a loop  132 C over the band  112 . 
         [0107]      FIG. 13  illustrates another headgear accessory attachment apparatus  210  similar to the apparatus described herein except that it includes a reinforcing member or flap  280 . The flap  280  can be attached to the band bottom  212 B. The front flap  280  helps prevent the apparatus  210  from coming off the headgear when traveling at high speeds. If a brim or visor is being used as an accessory, the front flap  280  may also be effectively created by attaching—either permanently or removably—the band  212  to the top of the brim or visor a distance distal to the inner edge of the brim or visor. 
         [0108]    The apparatus  210  shown in  FIG. 13  also comprises a flexible band  212  defining an opening  214  through which headgear can fit or pass. The band  212  may be contiguous or may have ends  216 A and  216 B, as shown in  FIG. 13 . The opening  214  is shown bordered by contiguous band  212  or by bringing the ends  216 A,  216 B closer via a size adjustment feature, shown as a strap  218  and buckle  220  in  FIG. 13 , or other suitable device. A means to adjust the diameter of the opening  214 , as shown by the strap  218  and buckle  220  in  FIG. 13 , to accommodate headgear of varying size may vary, and may include but is not limited to complementary hook and loop straps, interlocking buckles, snaps, elastic, and other devices. The band is tightened about the circumference of the helmet to snugly fit. 
         [0109]    The accessory attachment apparatus  210  is shown having an accessory  230  permanently mounted to the attachment apparatus  210 . In  FIG. 13 , a headlamp is depicted as the accessory. However, as stated above, any number of accessories may be attached or secured to the helmet via the accessory attachment apparatus. The accessory  230  may be attached anywhere on the attachment apparatus  210  provided the accessory still remains functional. The attachment apparatus  210  may be made as described herein. 
         [0110]    In a method, an apparatus  210  is joined with an accessory. The apparatus is put over the headgear, with the headgear going through the opening  214  of the band  212 . The band is adjusted to snugly fit and secure the band about the headgear. In some embodiments an anti-slip material  236  is present on the interior of the band, and the headgear engages the anti-slip material  236 . The flap engages the helmet edge. 
         [0111]      FIG. 14  illustrates another headgear accessory attachment apparatus  310  similar to the apparatuses described herein except that it includes a pocket  390 . This apparatus is depicted with a permanently mounted accessory  330  but could also be used with a detachable accessory. 
         [0112]    The pocket serves to accommodate various headgear that have a visor that is pre-integrated or molded into the headgear itself. The pocket  390  is sized to receive the pre-existing visor that was previously integrated with the helmet. The pocket further holds the apparatus on the headgear. The pocket may be made of similar materials to the band, described herein. The pocket may have hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro straps) attached at opposite inner surfaces of the pocket. 
         [0113]    In a method, the headgear pre-integrated visor is inserted into the apparatus pocket  390  and the band  312  is pulled over the headgear, with the headgear fitted through the opening  314  of the band  312  and engaging the anti-slip material  336  by tightening the strap  318  through the buckle  320  and bringing the ends of the attachment band  316 A,  316 B closer together. Hook and loop fasteners on the interior surfaces of the pocket are engaged around the pre-integrated visor to produce a custom, conforming, and snug fit. 
         [0114]      FIGS. 15-21  illustrate another embodiment of a headgear accessory attachment apparatus  1410  for use on protective headgear  1440 , such as outdoor sports helmets, military helmets, and hard hats. The apparatus  1410  may be made of a wide variety of materials. Examples of materials include without limitation cotton, nylon, polyester, fabric bands, foam, coated foams, lightweight and flexible plastic, or other suitable materials. 
         [0115]    The apparatus shown in  FIG. 15  includes a flexible band  1412  defining an opening  1414  through which at least a portion of the headgear can pass or fit. The band  1412  may be contiguous or may have sides or ends  1412 A and  1412 B, as shown in  FIGS. 15 and 16   a . The sides or ends  1412 A,  1412 B, may be brought closer together via a size adjustment feature  1417 , shown as a strap  1418  and ladder lock buckle  1420  in  FIG. 15 , or other suitable device. Non limiting examples of a size adjustment feature include ratcheting buckle, lock buckle, cam buckle, belt buckle, and peg and mating hole strap. 
         [0116]    The size adjustment feature or means  1417  adjusts the diameter of the opening  1414  is shown by the strap  1418  and buckle  1420  in  FIGS. 15, 16   a ,  17   a ,  20   a ,  21 , to accommodate the different sizes of protective headgear  1440 . 
         [0117]    With reference to  FIG. 21 , the flexible band  1412  is shown secured about the circumference of the headgear  1440 . It is to be understood, however, that although the size adjustment member is shown as a strap  1418  looping through a ladderlock buckle, the size adjustment feature or means may take other forms and include but is not limited to complementary hook and loop straps, interlocking buckles, snaps, elastic, and other devices. 
         [0118]    With reference to  FIG. 17 a   , the headgear accessory attachment apparatus  1410  may have a section of anti-slip material  1436  to facilitate frictional engagement with the headgear  1440 . The anti-slip material may be configured variously. Exemplary configurations of the anti-slip material include but are not limited to multi-layered structures, composites, or fully integrated, uniform materials. 
         [0119]    The anti-slip material  1436  may be made of rubber, rubberized fabrics, foam, coated foam, combinations thereof, or other suitable material. The anti-slip material preferably creates friction when force is applied to the opposite side of the anti-slip material. In addition, the anti-slip material may be compressible to facilitate a better grip. In  FIG. 17 a   , the anti-slip area  1436  is shown on an inner surface of the apparatus  1410 . 
         [0120]      FIG. 15  shows apparatus  1410  having an elastic section  1422 . The elastic section serves to bring the band in towards the surface of the headgear when the apparatus  1410  is mounted to the headgear  1440 , creating a nice physical appearance. 
         [0121]    In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 15-21 , the flexible band  1412  has two spatial control members,  1481 ,  1482 , which are illustrated as stitches. Although only two spatial control members are shown in  FIG. 16 b   , more or less spatial control members may be supplied. Indeed, a wide range of spatial control members can be used. The spatial control members create a shape in the flexible band that serves to aid the engagement of the flexible band  1412  with the headgear  1440  when the apparatus  1410  is mounted to the headgear. The spatial control members may be hidden from view during manufacture. Additionally, although illustrated as stitches in  FIG. 16 b   , spatial control members may consist of clips, ties, stitches, and other suitable devices. Spatial control members are shown in a bottom frontal region of the band member. The spatial control members bias or prejudice the bottom of the band to be smaller in diameter than the region above the bottom of the band. The spatial control members are shown in  FIG. 16 b    towards the front and central region. 
         [0122]    An alternative to the spatial control members is to cut the fabric of the flexible band at such an angle so as to pre-contour the flexible band to receive the contour of the headgear. The pre-contour is not rigid but flexes upon tightening of the size adjustment feature to provide a custom fit to the headgear. 
         [0123]    The flexible band  1412  could also be sewn in such a way to restrict the circumference of a first section ID first  of the flexible band to a smaller measurement than a second section ID second  of the flexible band. The first section being lower than the second section. In this way, the flexible band&#39;s smaller circumference at the bottom restricts its movement up and off the helmet, providing a secure fit. In a sense, in this embodiment, the band has a tapered interior lumen. 
         [0124]    The flexible band may also have a reinforcement ribbon  1485  to constrict the length of the flexible band  1412  at its lower edge. 
         [0125]    With reference to  FIGS. 20 a , 20 b   , and  21 , the accessory attachment apparatus  1410  is shown with a detachable accessory  1430 . In the illustrations, the detachable accessory  1430  is illustrated as a bill of a visor, although it is to be understood that a variety of detachable accessories, such as headlamps, goggles, night vision goggles, helmet cameras, rear lights, visor bills, brims, decorative material, decorative embellishments, mosquito netting, curtains, and other devices may be used. The visor bill accessory may have a stiffening member along the edge of its interior arc  1431 A and the outer edge  1431 B. The stiffening member provides support and helps to maintain structure of the visor bill when the visor bill is attached to the accessory attachment apparatus  1410  and the assembly attached to a helmet used under conditions with wind or higher speed of movement. The stiffeners help to prevent the brim from collapsing under the stress of the moving air. The stiffeners may be made of plastic rod, wire, nylon rod, tubing, or other suitable device. The visor bill may also be reinforced with plastic edging, piping, additional layers of foam, material, or interfacing. The stiffening members may be a single member or a plurality of members and may be located anywhere along the visor bill. 
         [0126]    The accessory  1430  and apparatus  1410  have complementary engaging devices, such a mating hook  1432 A and loop  1432 B,  1432 C fasteners. The complementary engaging devices may vary and may comprise snaps, mating clips, complementary click together devices, buckles, magnets, and other suitable materials. The complementary engaging devices  1432 A and  1432 B,  1432  C may be positioned on any location of the accessory  1430  and apparatus  1410 , respectively, except locations that prohibit functionality. 
         [0127]    In addition, there may be multiple of each type of fastener on the apparatus and the accessory, as illustrated by the loop fastener  1432 B,  1432 C which is present in two locations on the detachable accessory. The location, quantity, and respective fastener part type of the hook-loop, male-female pair, and so on, may vary. The accessory  1430  may be attached anywhere on the attachment apparatus  1410  provided the accessory still remains functional. 
         [0128]      FIGS. 19 a , 19 b    show an example of an accessory, namely, a bill  1430  or visor which may be connected or detachably fastened to the band member described above. 
         [0129]      FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 21  show the bill  1430  secured to the apparatus  1410  via the complementary engaging devices. If so desired, the visor bill accessory  1430  can be attached to the flexible band  1412  via the mating fasteners to create a gap or air channel  1433  between the flexible band  1412  and the visor bill accessory  1430  that allows air to pass. This gap  1433  can be advantageous in windy situations or when the wearer is using the apparatus while traveling at higher speeds. The gap or channel  1433  reduces the wind pressure on the apparatus that can be transferred to the headgear  1440  and the user. 
         [0130]    With reference to  FIG. 21 , the apparatus is shown fixed around the circumference of headgear  1440 . Strap  1418  is locked into position by the ladder lock buckle, enabling a compressible and anti-slip portion of the band member to form a multi-sided tight clamp around the circumference of the helmet and for the device to engage a front lower edge of the helmet as described above. Bill  1430  is also shown extending radially from the band member along a bill arc. The bill arc is less than 360 degrees, and more preferably ranges from 120 to 270 degrees, and most preferably from 180 to 240 degrees. 
         [0131]    If the apparatus is to be used with headgear that does not have significant nooks at the rear in which to fit the adjustment strap, the accessory attachment apparatus may comprise additional anti-slip material sewn to the surface of the adjustment strap that will contact the headgear when the apparatus is installed. Alternatively, a tube with anti-slip material may be threaded over the adjustment strap and oriented so that the anti-slip material contacts the surface of the headgear when the apparatus is installed. The anti-slip material may be a single layer or could be multiple layers. For example the tube may comprise a layer of rubberized material attached to a layer of foam. The tube and anti-slip material will facilitate frictional engagement with the headgear after installation. The foam squishes the rubberized fabric against the surface of the helmet when the strap is pulled, providing better gripping power. 
         [0132]    In a method of using the headgear accessory attachment apparatus  1410 , the apparatus is pulled over the headgear  1440 , with the headgear going through the center opening  1414  and engaging the anti-slip section  1436  by tightening the size adjustment strap  1418  through the buckle  1420 . Tightening the size adjustment strap  1418  deforms the flexible band  1412  around the circumference of the headgear  1440 , compresses the anti-slip material  1436  against the helmet, and warps the flexible band around the front edge of the helmet. Installation allows the apparatus  1410  to grab and securely clamp the headgear and creates a custom fit for the headgear, preventing detachment. The band compresses around a front edge of the helmet, clamping on a minimum of two surfaces of the helmet. In embodiments, when the strap is tightened, the apparatus clamps under the front side of the helmet and a surface on the front of the helmet conforming to hold the helmet at the front. In embodiments, the strap then holds the rear of the helmet by nesting into a groove in the helmet or may have a tube of anti-slip material with foam at the rear to engage the helmet frictionally at its rear. Wrapping the flexible band  1412  around the front edge of the headgear  1440  helps the apparatus  1410  to hold on to the headgear when a non-aerodynamic accessory is attached to the apparatus; without having the flexible band contact the underside of the headgear, the entire apparatus would be more likely to fly off when traveling at higher speeds. 
         [0133]      FIG. 22  shows another embodiment of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus. In particular, the visor bill  1530  is permanently attached to the accessory attachment apparatus  1510  via stitches,  1541 ,  1542 . The visor has been stitched in such a way to generate a gap or pressure relief aperture  1533  between the flexible band  1512  and the visor bill accessory  1530  through which air can pass. This is particularly useful if the wearer is using the apparatus in an activity that requires the wearer to move at higher speeds. This gap or pressure relief aperture will allow the air to pass through and prevents pressure from building up on the underside of the visor bill, which may shift the headgear back and out of its proper position. A method of using the apparatus is similar to that described for the apparatus pictured in  FIGS. 15-21 . 
         [0134]      FIG. 23  shows another embodiment of the headgear attachment apparatus  1610 . In  FIG. 23 , flexible band  1612  is contiguous. A size adjustment feature  1617  serves to fit different size headgear. In this embodiment, the size adjustment feature consists of a strap  1618  and a ladder lock buckle  1620 . However, it is to be understood that a wide variety of items may be used for the size adjustment feature including but not limited to: snaps, elastic, hook and loop fasteners, ropes, clips, buckles, and so on with sufficient holding power and tightness to retain the headgear accessory apparatus onto the helmet. 
         [0135]    The strap  1618  runs through a channel  1624  in the flexible band before coming out of the band and through the buckle  1620 . A method of using the apparatus is similar to that described for the apparatus pictured in  FIGS. 15-21 . 
         [0136]    Some users of the apparatus may prefer to have a different style or look to a brim attached to the headgear attachment apparatus. In another embodiment of the headgear accessory attachment apparatus  1710  shown in  FIGS. 24 and 25 , a brim  1718  has been permanently attached to the apparatus by stitching. The brim  1718  could also be removably attached via mating hook and loop fasteners or other suitable devices. In this embodiment, a lateral adjustment feature  1720  comprises a string  1721 , grommets  1722 ,  1723 , and tightening device  1724 . In the figure, the tightening device is pictured as a cordlock, although other types of devices including knots, ties, clamps, wedges, and other suitable devices can be used. The string runs from a top strap  1725  to the lateral edge of the brim through a grommet hole, through channels  1726 ,  1727  and back to a tightening device  1724 . The top strap  1725  may have distal attachment devices, illustrated in  FIG. 25  as hook fasteners, at its ends  1725 B,  1725 C. These top strap distal attachment devices may start as lengthy extensions that the user can cut to length so that the top strap fits the user&#39;s helmet. These top strap distal attachment devices can then be connected to a brim connection device  1725 D,  1725 E, which are illustrated as hook fasteners in  FIG. 25 . Although illustrated as hook and loop fasteners, distal attachment devices and brim connection devices may take many forms. Other examples of these devices include clips, loops, straps, buckles, snaps, magnets, and other suitable devices. In a method of using the device, the user installs the headgear accessory attachment apparatus  1710  with the attached brim  1718  to the headgear  1719  as described for the apparatus pictured in  FIGS. 15-21 . To adjust the position of the lateral edges of the brim, the user would pull on the string  1721  and secure the desired position of the lateral brim edge by engaging the tightening device at the appropriate point so as to constrict the length of the string  1721 . In this way, the brim could look like a cowboy hat if preferred. 
         [0137]    The apparatus may also have a stiffener that runs through a channel  1730  around the perimeter of the brim. The stiffener may be a flexible yet sturdy plastic rod. Wire, metal rods, or other suitable devices could be used. The stiffener is removable, foldable (or otherwise collapsible) and can be stored in a pocket  1750 . The ability to remove the rod allows the brim to be structurally supported or stiff when traveling at speeds yet collapsible and packable for easy transport. The user would simply slide the stiffener into a channel  1730  on the edge of the brim when required or remove the stiffener and store when not needed 
         [0138]    It should be noted that while the embodiments disclosed above are described as being used with outdoor sports helmets, military helmets, and hard hats, the invention is not so limited, and can be used in conjunction with a variety of headgear. 
         [0139]    It should also be noted that any of the preferred embodiments may be packaged with headgear to form a headgear system. In one embodiment a system includes a type of headgear such as, e.g., a bike helmet model Venture, manufactured by Easton Bell Sports, Inc. (Van Nuys, Calif., USA) and an accessory attachment apparatus as described herein. A system for bicycling may include a helmet, accessory attachment apparatus, and a headlamp. Helmet systems may also include a variety of accessories but not limited to those listed herein and may also include covers, nets, and/or clips.