Patent Publication Number: US-2022233356-A1

Title: Face shield apparatus

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/142,607 filed on Jan. 28, 2021, entitled “FACE SHIELD APPARATUS”, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     1. Field of the Disclosure 
     The disclosure relates in general to personal protection equipment, and more particularly, to a face shield apparatus. 
     2. Background Art 
     While face shields have been known in the art of personal protection equipment, with the recent pandemic, their use has become substantially more widespread. Additionally, such use has expanded outside of the traditional areas of use (high splatter environments in assembly, medicine and the like). In many instances, to achieve an additional level of protection, such face shields are worn by users where interactions with other people (customers, patients, persons, colleagues, patrons or the like) can be common and/or reoccurring. 
     With the increasing use and in increasingly different venues, problems have arisen with traditional face shields. For example, these shields can be worn for longer durations that initially designed. As a result, many prior art shields become uncomfortable to use for extended periods of time. Furthermore, with extended use, use with glasses (or even sun glasses) is desirable and not always possible with prior designs. Still further, some prior art designs sealingly engage with the forehead of a user which is not only uncomfortable but which creates a sealed environment within the face shield space. Still other prior art shields that have separate frames can be very difficult to attach to the frame or have couplings that do not provide a sturdy and durable coupling. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The disclosure is directed to a pair of opposed locking clasps to couple a temple of a frame to a top bar of the frame. The pair of opposed locking clasps are comprised of a first locking clasp, a second locking clasp, and a hinge. The first locking clasp is comprised of a first base, a nub disposed proximate to a first end of the first base, and a protrusion disposed proximate to a second end of the first base. The second locking clasp is comprised of a second body and an indent that substantially corresponds to a shape of the protrusion, the protrusion being disposed in the indent to lock the first locking clasp to the second locking clasp. The hinge couples the first locking clasp to the second locking clasp. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the protrusion includes a non-uniform outer perimeter so as to preclude rotative movement therearound. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the protrusion is an elongated racetrack oval. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the protrusion includes a forward flange disposed on a forward end of the protrusion and extends beyond an outer perimeter of the protrusion. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the hinge is a live hinge. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the nub is circular in shape. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the pair of opposed locking clasps comprise a flexible polymer. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the frame is molded from a polymer. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the polymer is at least one of TR90 and a nylon. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, a face shield apparatus is comprised of the pair of opposed locking clasps, and the face shield apparatus further comprises a shield that is coupled to the fame via the pair of opposed locking clasps. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the shield is a full-face shield. 
     In at least one configuration of the pair of opposed locking clasps, the shield wraps around a face of a wearer of the face shield apparatus. 
     The disclosure is also directed to a face shield apparatus that is comprised of a pair of opposed locking clasps to couple a temple of a frame to a top bar of the frame, and a shield. The pair of opposed locking clasps are comprised of a first locking clasp, a second locking clasp, and a hinge. The first locking clasp is comprised of a first base, a nub disposed proximate to a first end of the first base, and a protrusion disposed proximate to a second end of the first base. The second locking clasp is comprised of a second body and an indent that substantially corresponds to a shape of the protrusion, the protrusion being disposed in the indent to lock the first locking clasp to the second locking clasp. The hinge couples the first locking clasp to the second locking clasp. The shield is coupled to the fame via the pair of opposed locking clasps. 
     In at least one configuration of the face shield apparatus, the protrusion includes a non-uniform outer perimeter so as to preclude rotative movement therearound. 
     In at least one configuration, the protrusion is an elongated racetrack oval. 
     In at least one configuration, the protrusion includes a forward flange disposed on a forward end of the protrusion and extends beyond an outer perimeter of the protrusion. 
     In at least one configuration, the hinge is a live hinge. 
     In at least one configuration, the nub is circular in shape. 
     In at least one configuration, the pair of opposed locking clasps comprise a flexible polymer. 
     In at least one configuration, the shield is a full-face shield. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will now be described with reference to the drawings wherein: 
         FIG. 1  of the drawings is a top perspective view of the face shield apparatus of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  of the drawings is a bottom perspective view of the face shield apparatus of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 3  of the drawings is a front elevational view of the face shield apparatus of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  of the drawings is first side elevational view of the face shield apparatus of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  of the drawings is a second side elevational view of the face shield apparatus of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 6  of the drawings is a top plan view of the face shield apparatus of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 7  of the drawings is a bottom plan view of the face shield apparatus of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 8  of the drawings is a partial perspective view of the frame with the locking clasp installed on the first temple  24 ; 
         FIG. 9  of the drawings is a partial perspective view of the frame showing the shield attachment member of the first temple  24 ; 
         FIG. 10  of the drawings is an inside perspective view of the locking clasp of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 11  of the drawings is an outside perspective view of the locking clasp of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 12  of the drawings is a top plan view of the locking clasp of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 13  of the drawings is a bottom plan view of the locking clasp of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 14  of the drawings is a first side view of the locking clasp of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 15  of the drawings is a second side view of the locking clasp of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 16  of the drawings is an end view of the locking clasp of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 17  of the drawings is a first perspective view of a standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in an open, and partially overlying position; 
         FIG. 18  of the drawings is a second perspective view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in an open, and partially overlying position; 
         FIG. 19  of the drawings is a first side elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in an open, and partially overlying position; 
         FIG. 20  of the drawings is a bottom plan view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in an open, and partially overlying position; 
         FIG. 21  of the drawings is a front elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in an open, and partially overlying position; 
         FIG. 22  of the drawings is a top plan view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in an open, and partially overlying position; 
         FIG. 23  of the drawings is a second side elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in an open, and partially overlying position; 
         FIG. 24  of the drawings is a first perspective view of a standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a closed position; 
         FIG. 25  of the drawings is a second perspective view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a closed position; 
         FIG. 26  of the drawings is a first side elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a closed position; 
         FIG. 27  of the drawings is a bottom plan view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a closed position; 
         FIG. 28  of the drawings is a front elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a closed position; 
         FIG. 29  of the drawings is a top plan view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a closed position; 
         FIG. 30  of the drawings is a second side elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a closed position; 
         FIG. 31  of the drawings is a first perspective view of a standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a flattened open position; 
         FIG. 32  of the drawings is a second perspective view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a flattened open position; 
         FIG. 33  of the drawings is a first side elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a flattened open position; 
         FIG. 34  of the drawings is a bottom plan view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a flattened open position; 
         FIG. 35  of the drawings is a front elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a flattened open position; 
         FIG. 36  of the drawings is a top plan view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a flattened open position; and 
         FIG. 37  of the drawings is a second side elevational view of the standalone shield attachment member with locking clasp, in a flattened open position. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     While this disclosure is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and described herein in detail a specific embodiment(s) with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification and is not intended to be limited to the embodiment(s) illustrated. 
     It will be understood that like or analogous elements and/or components, referred to herein, may be identified throughout the drawings by like reference characters. In addition, it will be understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations of the invention, and some of the components may have been distorted from actual scale for purposes of pictorial clarity. 
     Referring now to the drawings and in particular to  FIGS. 1 and 7 , the face shield apparatus is shown generally at  10 . The face shield apparatus  10  includes frame  12 , shield  14  and locking clasps  16  and  16 ′. The face shield apparatus  10  can be used alone, or in conjunction with other forms of personal protection equipment (PPE). Additionally, the face shield apparatus  10  is configured for use along with glasses while minimizing the interference therewith. 
     The frame  12  of the face shield apparatus  10  includes top bar  20 , bridge  22  and first and second temples  24  and  24 ′. While not required, in the configuration shown, the top bar  20  and the bridge  22  are integrally molded, and the frame  12  is preferably molded from a polymer, such as TR90 available from EMS-Grivory of Domat, Switzerland, a nylon or another polymer. Such a polymer allows for extensive flexibility and elastic deformation without cracking or deforming. Other materials that are contemplated include a composite material (fiberglass or carbon fiber based), a metal such as stainless steel and titanium among other metals and alloys thereof. Of course, the selection of material is not to be deemed limiting, but, rather is solely intended to be exemplary. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 3 through 6 , the frame  12  is defined by front portion  30 , first end portion  32  and second end portion  34 . The front portion  30  extends, preferably over the forehead of the user, and includes outward surface  40 , inward surface  41 , first side  42 , second side  43 , upper edge  44  and lower edge  45 . The outward surface  40  is preferably substantially planar, while some curvature is contemplated as well toward the opposing first and second ends. In another configuration, the frame  12  may extend all the way around the user (in the form of a headband or the like) and may comprise a single component. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 3 through 6 , the first end portion  32  has a front end  50  and a temple end  51  ( FIG. 6 ). The front end  50  extends from the first side  42  of the front portion  30  to terminate at temple end  51 . The first end portion  32  has an arcuate configuration so as to form a bend that is close to 90° (i.e., 90°+/−10°). Additionally, the first end portion  32  is angled in a downward direction between the front end  50  and the temple end so that the front portion  30  rests over the forehead while the temple end  51  rests lower (and, in some configurations, substantially even with the upper end of the ear so that the temples  24  and  24 ′ are substantially horizontal). In some configurations, the downward angle of the front-end portion (angle α) may be approximately 19° (more preferably between 5° and 45°). Similarly, the second end portion  34  has front end  52  that extends from the second side  43  of the front portion  30  and terminates at temple end  53 . The second end portion  34  is a mirror image of the first end portion  32  taken about a line that bisects the front portion  30  of the top bar  20 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the bridge  22  includes central portion  60 , first nose pad arm  64  and second nose pad arm  66 . The central portion  60  depends from the front portion  30  and includes upper end  61  and lower end  62 . The first nose pad arm  64  has a proximal end  70  that extends from the lower end  62  of the central portion  60  and terminates at distal end  71 . A first nose pad  67  overlies a portion of the first nose pad arm  64 . The second nose pad arm  66  has a proximal end  73  that extends from the lower end  62  of the central portion  60  and terminates at a distal end  74 . A second nose pad  69  overlies a portion of the second nose pad arm  66 . The central portion  60  and the first and second nose pad arms  64  and  66  are inclined downward and rearwardly at an angle (angle ( 3 ) of approximately 25° (i.e., between 5° and 45°) relative to a vertical line depending from the outward surface  40  of the front portion  30 . Such an angle facilitates the directing of the front portion  30  away from the forehead of the user. Additionally, such an angle provides for the bridge  22  to engage proximate an upper end of the nose allowing for the user to also utilize glasses that may be positioned outboard of the bridge  22  on the nose of the user. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 4 through 7  (and with selective additional reference to  FIGS. 8 and 9 ) The first temple  24  extends from the first end portion  32  and is hinged thereto through hinge  54  which may include a hinge pin or which may be formed from mating components of the first end portion  32  and the first temple  24 . The first temple  24  includes proximal end  80  (which is proximate the hinge  54 ) and distal end  81 . The distal end  81  terminates at the temple tip  82 . The first temple  24  includes outer surface  83  and inner surface  84 . In the configuration shown, the first temple  24  is substantially planar with a downward portion toward the distal end  81  to extend about the ear of a user. 
     With reference to  FIG. 9 , the shield attachment member  86  is disposed near the proximal end  80  of the first temple  24 . The shield attachment member  86  includes a protrusion  90  which extends outwardly from the outer surface  83  of the first temple  24 . The protrusion  90  has a non-uniform outer perimeter  92  so as to preclude rotative movement therearound. To enhance the rigidity of the interface between the protrusion  90 ,  90 ′ and a bore of the shield  110 ,  114  (as will be described below), the protrusion  90  is formed as an elongated racetrack oval configuration with the elongation extending along the outer surface between the proximal end and the distal end  81  of the first temple  24 . Other configurations and shapes are contemplated, both shapes that are uniform and non-uniform, and/or arbitrary. A forward flange  94  is disposed on the forward end of the outer surface of the protrusion  90  and extends beyond the outer perimeter  92  thereof. Finally, a bore is positioned proximate the protrusion  90  spaced apart therefrom toward the distal end  81  of the first temple  24 . 
     The second temple  24 ′ is shown in  FIG. 5 . The second temple  24 ′ is substantially a mirror image of the first temple  24 . As such, any similar structures are referred to with the same reference numbers augmented with a prime (′), with the understanding that the structures are mirror images of each other. 
     It will be understood that the configuration shown substantially precludes relative rotation of the shield  14  vis-a-vis the frame  12  due to the shape of the protrusion  90  and the presence of the bore and nub that interface with the shield  14  (as will be described below). It will further be understood that in other configurations, rotation of the shield  14  may be permitted wherein the protrusion  90  may itself rotate relative to the frame  12  or the protrusion  90  may be shaped so as to allow rotation of the shield  14 . That rotation may be indexed through a ratcheting mechanism. 
     The shield  14  is shown in  FIG. 2  as comprising outer perimeter  100 , inner surface  102 , outer surface  104 , first coupling region  106  and second coupling region  108 . With reference to  FIG. 4 , the first coupling region  106  includes bore  110  and indent  112 . The bore  110  is inwardly space from the outer perimeter  100  and corresponds to the shape of the protrusion  90  of the first temple  24 . The indent  112  forms a portion of the outer perimeter  100  and is configured to curve around the front portion  30  (preferably above and/or below) of bore  96  of the first temple  24 . In the example shown, the shield  14  is a full-face shield sized to cover substantially an entire face (not shown) of a wearer of the face shield apparatus  10 . It will be understood that the shield  14  may have any number of different configurations, having a full and/or partial facial coverage, similar in size to glasses. The shield  14  can be opaque or tinted, such as to filter out the sun. 
     Similarly, and with reference to  FIG. 5 , the second coupling region  108  is a mirror image of the first coupling region  106  and includes bore  114  (that corresponds to the shape of the protrusion  90 ′ of the second temple  24 ′) and indent  116  formed as a portion of the outer perimeter  100 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10 through 15 , the locking clasps  16  ( 16 ′ shown in  FIG. 2  is substantially identical thereto) are formed from a flexible polymer member that is elastically stretchable and elastically deformable. The first locking clasp  16  is shown as comprising body  120  and interfacing numb  122 . The body  120  includes outer surface  130 , inner surface  132 , front end  134  and back end  136 . An indent in the body  120 , such as a receiving channel  138  is formed into the inner surface  132  proximate the front end  134 . In the example shown, the receiving channel  138  is slightly longer than half a length of the body  120 . The receiving channel has a shape that substantially corresponds a shape of the protrusion  90 , and includes flange receiver  139  to receive the forward flange  94 . The front end  134  of the locking clasp  16  may have an increased thickness to facilitate grasping by a user toward the manipulation of the same. 
     The interfacing nub  122  includes bore interface  140  and terminates at distal flange  142  ( FIG. 10 ). In the example shown, the bore interface  140  is oval in shape, however, other shapes are possible, such as circular, square, rectangular, or any other shape. In the example shown, the distal flange  142  is oval in shape, however, other shapes are possible, such as circular, square, rectangular, or any other shape. As will be explained below, and with reference to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the interfacing nub  122  is configured to extend through bore  96  of the shield attachment member of the first temple  24 . 
     The locking clasp  16 ′ is substantially identical to that of the locking clasp  16  and utilized in cooperation with the second temple  24 ′ to retain the shield  14  in cooperation with the second coupling region  108 . 
     In operation, a user is provided with a shield  14  (often in a rolled-up configuration) and the frame  12 . The frame  12  may be provided with the locking clasps  16 ,  16 ′ coupled thereto. In some configurations, a shipping coupling  300  (such as the shipping coupling shown in  FIG. 16 ) may be provided. The shipping coupling  300  has a body  301 , having a notch  302  and an opening  304 . The opening  304  is interfaced with the protrusion  90  ( FIG. 9 ) while the notch  302  extends about and interfaces with the interfacing nub  122  ( FIG. 8 ) of the locking clasp  16  ( FIG. 8 ). The shipping coupling mimics a portion of the shield  14  and provides a user with an example of how the shield  14  is to be interfaced with the frame  12 . 
     The user can release the shipping coupling from retention by first deforming the body of the locking clasp so as to decouple the body from the protrusion  90  of the first temple  24 . The interfacing nub can remain assembled to the bore of the first temple  24 . Once the protrusion  90  is removed from the receiving channel, the shipping coupling can be removed. In other configurations, the shipping coupling may be omitted. Additionally, in some configurations, the user will have to attach the locking clasp to the temples  24  and  24 ′ by extending the interfacing nub of the locking clasp into the respective bore of each of the first and second temples  24  and  24 ′. 
     Once the locking clasps  16 ,  16 ′ are in a position wherein they have their interfacing nubs extended through the respective one of the bores of the first and second temple  24  and  24 ′, the user can unroll the shield  14  (where provided rolled), or if the shield  14  is provided flat, the shield  14  can be immediately ready for attachment. The shield  14  is positioned so that the bore of the first coupling region  106  of the shield  14  is fitted to the protrusion  90 . At the same time, the indent of the first coupling region  106  is interfaced with the interfacing nub of the locking clasp. 
     Once interfaced, the body of the first locking clasp is elastically deformed and extended over the protrusion  90 . As the body of the first locking clasp is manipulated, the protrusion  90  is directed into the receiving channel with the forward flange being directed into the flange receiver. Once directed and interfaced, the first locking clasp is released and the shield  14  is sandwiched between the locking clasp and the outer surface of the first temple  24 . Rotational movement relative to the frame  12  is precluded due to the configuration of the protrusion  90  and the shape of the bore of the shield  14  so that relative rotational movement is precluded. Additionally, the interface between the interfacing nub and the indent of the shield  14  further aids in precluding relative rotative movement. The shape and dimensions of the locking clasp can be such that the natural resilience of the material of the locking clasp directs a bias against the shield  14  and the outer surface of the frame  12  to further secure the structures together and to prevent relative movement. 
     Once the first clasp  16  is positioned into locking releasable engagement with the protrusion  90  of the first temple  24 , the same process can be repeated with the second coupling region  108  of the shield  14 , and, the shield  14  can be interfaced with the protrusion  90  of the second temple  24 ′, and the second locking clasp. Once both of the locking clasps  16 ,  16 ′ are fully installed, the shield  14  is ready for use. 
     Advantageously, as the user installs the shield  14 , it becomes apparent that the top bar  20  of the frame  12  is directed above the eyebrows and into a region of the forehead spaced apart from the eyebrows and the eyes. 
     In addition, the bridge  22  directs the top bar  20  to be spaced away from the forehead of the user. Further, the bridge  22  is direct inwardly at the nose and can engage the nose very high (at or near the level of the eyes). Such a configuration further places the shield  14  spaced apart from the front portion  30  of the top bar  20  and also away from the face of the user. Due to the placement of the bridge  22  in the orientation described and the position of the front portion  30  of the top bar  20 , the user can install glasses such that the bridge  22  is positioned between the bridge  22  of the glasses and the face of the user. Even larger glasses can be accommodated. 
     Additionally, the first and second end portions  32 ,  34  wrap around so that the distal ends are directed toward the ears of the user where the first and second temples  24  and  24 ′ are hingedly joined. Such a configuration moves the coupling of the shield  14  substantially further back and along the sides of the user&#39;s head (i.e., out of the way). 
     Finally, the interface between the shield  14  and the frame  12  is configured to preclude relative rotation between the components, and without having a fastener that extends through the shield  14  and through the frame  12 . Rather, the shield  14  has an opening that interfaces with protrusions  90 ,  90 ′ in the first and second temple  24  and  24 ′, and which have resilient locking clasps  16 ,  16 ′ that sandwich the shield  14  to the frame  12 . Having the protrusions  90 ,  90 ′ as part of the temples  24  and  24 ′ minimizes the relative movement of the shield and the frame  12 . 
     Removal of the shield  14  can easily be achieved through the release of the locking clasps  16 ,  16 ′ with the respective protrusions  90 ,  90 ′ and forward flange of the first and second temples  24  and  24 ′. Advantageously, the interfacing nubs remain within respective ones of the bores so that they stay with the frame  12  when the shield  14  is removed. Replacement of a new shield (where a shield has been damaged) or replacement with the same shield can easily be accomplished using the methods described above. 
     It is contemplated that the first and second temples  24  and  24 ′ can be collapsed about the hinge  54  while the shield  14  is installed, such that the shield  14  develops a c-shaped configuration. 
     It is further contemplated that the shield  14  attachment members may comprise a separate component that can be adhered or otherwise coupled to an existing pair of glasses, goggles, or the like. In such a configuration, the shield attachment members comprise a retrofit that with the use of the locking clasps  16 ,  16 ′ can releasably attach the shield  14  to a user&#39;s existing glasses, goggles or the like. 
     In a configuration which is meant to be illustrative, and not limiting, the standalone shield attachment member  486  with locking clasp  416  (collectively  19 ) is shown in  FIGS. 17 through 37  for fitting onto an existing pair of glasses, goggles or the like. In such a configuration, portions of the shield attachment member are formed on a base  497 , such as, for example, the protrusion  90 . In at least one configuration, a width of the locking clasp  416  is larger by approximately 20% than a width of the base  497 , as shown in  FIGS. 17-37 , although other widths are possible. The bore  96  can be replaced with nub  496 . In at least one example, the nub  496  is circular in shape, as shown, but can be other shapes, such as oval, square, rectangular, or any other shape. The locking clasp  416  can be provided and can be coupled to the base  497  by way of a live hinge  500 . In at least one configuration, a width of the live hinge  500  is approximately half a width of the locking clasp  416  and the base  497 , as shown in  FIGS. 17-37 , although other width. 
     In at least one configuration in which the locking clasp  416  and the base  497  are used to secure the shied  14  to the frame  12 , a height of the nub  496  is substantially (+—10%) same as a thickness of the shield  14 . This substantially sameness allows the base  497  to be coupled to the locking clasp  416  to thereby form a gap therebetween. This gap is configured to allow the base  497  and the locking clasp  497  to be disposed flush against a surface of the shield  14 , as shown in  FIGS. 1-7 . In such a configuration, the nub  496  is pressed against the inner surface  132  of the body  120  of the locking clasp  416 . In some configurations, the nub  496  may press against a flat surface, or may press against an indented surface. The entire member can be attached to an existing pair of glasses, goggles or the like through adhesive or through other structures such as elastomeric sleeves or the like. Typically, the base  497  is attached to the temple of the existing pair of glasses, goggles or the like. The closing of the clasp  19  and the opening thereof is similar in operation to that which is described above. It will be understood that the nub  496  may be varied, as can the structure of the protrusion  90 , as well as the configuration of the live hinge  500 . In other configurations, the locking clasp  416  may be a separate member and not coupled to the base  497  with the live hinge  500 . 
     The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates the disclosure and the disclosure is not limited thereto except insofar as the appended claims are so limited, as those skilled in the art who have the disclosure before them will be able to make modifications without departing from the scope of the disclosure.