Patent Abstract:
Rimless eyewear features a wire that encircles a lens. Systems are provided for selectively increasing or decreasing a tensile load on the wire to facilitate assembly and maintenance of the eyewear. An adjusting screw, different wire securement positions, and/or adjustment shims provide easy tension adjustment of the wire and secure the eye lens in a predetermined position and orientation.

Full Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     1. Field of the Invention  
         [0002]     The present invention relates generally to an adjustable lens securing system for rimless eyewear, and more particularly to an adjustable tensioning system that allows easy assembly and adjustment of a wire used to secure at least one eye lens.  
         [0003]     2. Description of the Related Art  
         [0004]     Recently, developments in the eyewear industry have resulted in the creation of eyewear in which the lenses appear to be unattached to any frame. Such eyewear is being called “rimless.” Temples and a bridge can be secured to the lenses with fasteners that extend through the lenses or with clamps that clamp over a portion of the lenses. Such arrangements result in a visible overlap of the mechanical structures used to support the lenses and the lenses themselves. Furthermore, while a goal of rimless eyewear is to minimize the visual impact created by the rim structures, many of these structures result in an emphasis on the components. Moreover, when preparing the lenses or when mounting the mechanical structures to the frames, the lenses are prone to chipping and cracking, which results in the lenses having to be discarded and increase the ultimate cost to the consumer of the eyewear. In addition, these mounting systems require highly precise drilling of holes, notches, etc., such that costly and time consuming outside lens preparation services are often required.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0005]     Even more recently, a rimless style of eyewear has been proposed in which the lenses are substantially encircled by a thin, multiple filament wire. Examples of such eyewear are described in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/678964, filed on Oct. 2, 2003, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, as well as the following applications from which that application claims priority: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/610862, filed on Jun. 30, 2003, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/269811, filed on Oct. 11, 200, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/394837, filed on Jul. 10, 2002, each of which also are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.  
         [0006]     The constructions described in the co-pending application generally require the wire to be sufficiently taut such that undesired movement of the components can be minimized or eliminated. The correct tautness or tension is achieved in many of these constructions only when the lenses are cut to the proper shape and size within very small tolerances. Given variations in the calibration and measuring systems of individual lens cutting equipment, and allowances for variations by the optical technicians using the equipment, this style of rimless eyewear admits to some improvements such that secure and practical rimless eyewear can be manufactured.  
         [0007]     While various systems for adjustment and tensioning of the wire can be envisioned, it is preferred that the adjustment system have an exterior configuration that closely resembles a standard endpiece. Such a construction would minimize the visual prominence of the adjustment system. Moreover, such a construction would minimize any overlap of the lens by the system such that the prominence of the mounting structure can be reduced and the eyewear can become even more transparent to observers of the user of the eyewear.  
         [0008]     Accordingly, certain aspects of the present invention are directed to an adjustment and tensioning system for rimless eyewear that comprise any of a number of embodiments of a flexible wire adjustment and tensioning mechanism. Various ones of the disclosed flexible wire adjustment and tensioning embodiments ensure ease of assembly as well as a system for adjusting the tension of the flexible wire that secures the lens in the rimless eyewear. In addition, it should be noted that the present invention may be used for many types of eyewear, including ophthalmic frames, sunglasses, magnetic eyewear and protective eyewear.  
         [0009]     In most preferred embodiments, the system is sized and configured to fit within a housing or to define a housing that resembles endpieces in present eyewear systems. In other words, when assembled, the housing would have a height, a width and a depth, with at least one of the width and the depth being substantially greater than the height. In other words, most present eyewear feature endpieces (e.g., where the temples attach to the lens supporting structures) that do not have a height as the longest dimension.  
         [0010]     An aspect of the present invention involves eyewear comprising a lens. The lens comprises a peripheral side surface with a groove being formed in the side surface. A wire generally encircles the lens with at least a portion of the wire being positioned within the groove. The wire comprises a first end and a second end. A first tensioning block is connected to the first end and a second tensioning block is connected to the second end. The second tensioning block has an abutment surface that generally abuts a portion of the first tensioning block. An anchor is positioned on the second end of the wire. The second tensioning block comprises a passage. The wire extends through the passage and the anchor is positioned proximate the abutment surface of the second tensioning block.  
         [0011]     Another aspect of the present invention involves eyewear comprising a lens. The lens comprises a peripheral side surface with a groove being formed in the side surface. A wire generally encircles the lens. At least a portion of the wire is positioned within the groove. The wire comprises a first end and a second end. A first block is connected to the first end of the wire and a second block is connected to the second end of the wire. At least one of the first block and the second block comprises a plurality of slots. At least one of the first end of the wire and the second end of the wire comprises an anchor bar. The anchor bar is sized and configured to be secured within one of the plurality of slots.  
         [0012]     A further aspect of the present invention involves eyewear comprising a lens. The lens comprises a peripheral side surface. A groove is formed in the side surface. A wire generally encircles the lens. At least a portion of the wire is positioned within the groove. The wire comprises a first end and a second end. A first block is connected to the first end of the wire. A second block is connected to the second end of the wire. The second block comprises an adjustment passage. The adjustment passage comprises a channel. An adjustment block is secured to the second end of the wire. The adjustment block comprises a tooth. The adjustment block is moveably positioned within the adjustment passage with the tooth being positioned within the channel. The adjustment block comprises a threaded portion. A threaded member extends through a portion of the second block and engages the threaded portion such that rotation of the threaded member results in movement of the adjustment block.  
         [0013]     An additional aspect of the present invention involves eyewear comprising a lens. The lens comprises a peripheral side surface with a groove being formed in the side surface. A wire generally encircles the lens with at least a portion of the wire being positioned within the groove. The wire comprises a first end and a second end. A first block is connected to the first end of the wire and a second block is connected to the second end of the wire. An anchor is secured to the second end of the wire. The anchor is rotatably secured within an adjustment screw. The adjustment screw is positioned within a threaded opening in the second block.  
         [0014]     Yet another aspect of the present invention involves eyewear comprising a lens. The lens comprises a peripheral side surface with a groove being formed in the side surface. A wire generally encircles the lens with at least a portion of the wire being positioned within the groove. The wire comprises a first end and a second end. A first block connected to the first end of the wire. A mounting plate is secured to the second end of the wire. The mounting plate being securable to the first block with at least one shim being positioned between the mounting plate and the first block.  
         [0015]     A further aspect of the present invention involves eyewear comprising a lens. The lens comprises a peripheral side surface with a groove being formed in the side surface. A wire generally encircles the lens with at least a portion of the wire being positioned within the groove. The wire comprises a first end and a second end. The first and second ends of the wire being connected to a first block and a second block. A tensioning recess formed in at least one of the first block and the second block and the first and second ends of the wire being positioned within the recess. The recess comprises a portion that is substantially the same width as one diameter of the wire. The recess also comprises a portion that is substantially larger that the one diameter of the wire. A threaded opening extends through at least one of the first block and the second block and intersects the substantially larger portion of the recess. A threaded member is positioned within the threaded opening.  
         [0016]     Since there are many well-known methods of attaching temples to a projection extending from the outside perimeter edge of a lens, it should be understood in reading any descriptions of the embodiments of the present invention that any suitable method can be used to attach the temples to the various closing mechanisms described herein. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0017]     Other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, some of the basic principles of the invention. Certain preferred embodiments are shown in the drawings, which are intended to illustrate and not to limit the invention.  
         [0018]      FIG. 1  is an example of eyewear arranged and configured in accordance with certain features aspects and advantages of the present invention.  
         [0019]      FIG. 2  is a front exploded perspective view of a wire tensioning system for pseudo rimless eyewear, which system is arranged and configured in accordance certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention.  
         [0020]      FIG. 3  is a sectioned view of the system of  FIG. 2 .  
         [0021]      FIG. 4  is a sectioned view of the system of  FIG. 2  taken along the line A-A of  FIG. 3 , the view shows the system prior to assembly.  
         [0022]      FIG. 5  is a sectioned view of the system of  FIG. 2  taken along the line A-A of  FIG. 3 , the view shows the system following assembly and adjustment of tension.  
         [0023]      FIG. 6  is a sectioned view of the system of  FIG. 2  taken along the line B-B of  FIG. 5 .  
         [0024]      FIG. 7  is an exploded view of another wire tensioning system arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention.  
         [0025]      FIG. 8  is top plan view of a lower tensioning block of the system of  FIG. 7  with different tab slots allowing a positioning tab to adjust tension applied to a wire used to generally circumscribe a lens.  
         [0026]      FIG. 9  is a sectioned view of the lower tensioning block taken along the line C-C of  FIG. 8 .  
         [0027]      FIG. 10  is an exploded view of another wire tensioning system arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention and illustrating a tensioning screw and a corresponding threaded tensioning anchor.  
         [0028]      FIG. 11  is a sectioned view of the system of  FIG. 10  and showing an upper tensioning block and the lower tensioning block.  
         [0029]      FIG. 12  is a sectioned view taken along the line D-D of  FIG. 11 .  
         [0030]      FIG. 13  is a sectioned view of another wire tensioning system arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention and illustrating a two piece threaded tensioning anchor.  
         [0031]      FIG. 14  is an exploded perspective view of the system of  FIG. 13 .  
         [0032]      FIG. 15  is an exploded perspective view of another wire tensioning system arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention and illustrating multiple tension adjustment shims.  
         [0033]      FIG. 16  is an elevation view of the system of  FIG. 15  illustrating a screw and two of the multiple tension adjustment shims installed.  
         [0034]      FIG. 17  is a sectioned view of the system of  FIG. 15  taken along the line E-E in  FIG. 16 .  
         [0035]      FIG. 18  is an exploded perspective view of another wire tensioning system arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention and illustrating upper and lower tensioning blocks and a tensioning plate used to adjust the tension of the wire.  
         [0036]      FIG. 19  is an elevation view of the system of  FIG. 18  illustrating an adjustment screw that contacts a portion of the tensioning plate, which is shown in phantom.  
         [0037]      FIG. 20  is a sectioned view taken along the line F-F of  FIG. 19 .  
         [0038]      FIG. 21  is a sectioned view taken along the line G-G of  FIG. 20 .  
         [0039]      FIG. 22  is a simplified, partial top view of eyewear arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention and illustrating an interface between tension blocks and a lens.  
         [0040]      FIG. 23  is another simplified, partial top view of eyewear arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention and illustrating another interface between tension blocks and a lens.  
         [0041]      FIG. 24  is an illustration of a bridge construction for eyewear arranged and configured in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0042]      FIG. 25  is a view along the line H-H of the bridge construction shown in  FIG. 24 .  
         [0043]      FIG. 26  is an illustration of another bridge construction for eyewear arranged and configured in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0044]      FIG. 27  is an illustration of a further bridge construction for eyewear arranged and configured in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0045]      FIG. 28  is a view along line I-I of the bridge construction shown in  FIG. 27 .  
         [0046]      FIG. 29  is a sectioned view of a bridge construction for eyewear arranged and configured in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
       [0047]     The present invention generally relates to eyewear frame assemblies featuring a flexible wire that forms at least a major portion of a lens securing frame. In some arrangements, the flexible wire generally circumscribes the associated lens. To provide a generic frame assembly that is capable of providing customizable lens shapes and sizes, the wire can have a length sufficient to extend around a lens and can be tightened about the lens such that lenses of varied sizes and shapes can be secured within a single frame assembly. In all of the embodiments described herein, each lens can comprise a tinted lens, a corrective lens or any other desired type of lens, including but not limited to a protective lens.  
         [0048]     Preferably, the wire extends around at least about 90% of the circumference of the associated lens. In some embodiments, the wire extends around at least about 95% of the circumference of the associated lens. In other embodiments, the wire extends almost entirely or entirely around the circumference of the associated lens. By extending the wire around substantially the entire circumference of the associated lens within a groove, a rimless look is provided to eyewear while creating a flexible and durable lens mounting system as compared to other rimless or semi-rimless eyewear (e.g., eyewear with the lens secured in an upper or lower metal frame with a nylon cord). In addition, such a construction is easy to assemble by opticians and the like without the use of costly and time consuming outside services often employed to assemble other types of fully rimless eyewear. The wire also can comprise two or more portions that generally encircle the lens. For instance, two wire portions can each extend about halfway around a lens such that the two portions together generally encircle the lens. The wire portions can have one end suitably secured to another eyewear component, such as, for example but without limitation, a bridge, closing member or temple hinge, while the other ends of the two wires can be secured together in any manner disclosed herein. Other numbers of wire portions also can be used but exceeding more than two wire portions can undesirably complicate assembly of the eyewear.  
         [0049]     In some embodiments, rigid components, such as, for example but without limitation, a bridge, a brow bar, or closing members can be positioned along the circumference of the associated lens. Preferably, these rigid components together span less than about 10% of the total circumferential length of the lens. In some embodiments, the rigid components span less than about 5% of the total circumferential length. In some preferred embodiments, the closing members have a vertical dimension that is smaller than at least one of a lateral dimension and a rearward (i.e., toward the ear) dimension. Such embodiments reduce the aesthetic presence of the closing members and improve the rimless appearance of the eyewear.  
         [0050]     Each wire desirably comprises a multiple filament construction. In other words, the wire preferably comprises more than one filament, fiber or strand. In some embodiments, the filaments are made from a metal, a metal alloy, a nylon, a polymer, a resin, a natural fiber or another naturally occurring or man-made material that is suitably strong in tension while maintaining sufficient flexibility to secure a lens in a manner described herein. In some embodiments, the wire may be manufactured of a type of fiber-optic material. While a single filament can be used and is practicable, it is currently believed that the multiple filament construction provides greater flexibility while maintaining sufficient strength for use in the manners described herein and, therefore, multiple filament constructions are preferred. Furthermore, multiple filament constructions increase the friction interface between the lenses and the wire, which friction helps secure the lens orientations relative to the other eyewear components.  
         [0051]     The multiple filaments preferably are intertwined, braided or wrapped together to define the wire. The wire can be encased within a sheath, cover, jacket or casing, if desired. By enclosing the multiple filaments in a casing or the like, the filaments can be better protected against normal wear and tear that might otherwise occur. In one embodiment, the wire is constructed similarly to a braided fishing leader wire.  
         [0052]     To provide a rimless appearance, the diameter of the wire should be sufficiently narrow. In some embodiments, the wire has an average diameter of between about 0.1 mm and about 3.0 mm. Preferably, the wire has an average diameter of between about 0.4 mm and about 1.6 mm, and more preferably has an average diameter of between about 0.4 mm and about 0.6 mm. In one embodiment, the wire has an average diameter of about 0.5 mm.  
         [0053]     With reference to  FIG. 1 , eyewear  2  is shown featuring a wire tensioning system  10  that is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention is shown. The tensioning system  10  can be used with any rimless eyewear, including those disclosed in copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/678964, filed on Oct. 2, 2003, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/610862, filed on Jun. 30, 2003, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/269811, filed on Oct. 11, 200, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/394837, filed on Jul. 10, 2002, which references are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, filed concurrently herewith, entitled Eyeglass Frame Assembly and having Attorney Docket No. IMMAST.013CP3, copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, filed concurrently herewith, entitled Adjustable Tensioning System for Rimless Eyewear and having Attorney Docket No. IMMAST.021A also are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In general, the rimless eyewear  2  features a wire  12  that is positioned within a groove  14  in a lens  18  to secure the lens  18  in position. Closing members  4 , which are described in detail below, can be used to close the wire  12  into a loop form. In some arrangements, the closing members  4  can be used to attach temples  6  or a bridge  8  to the lenses  18 .  
         [0054]     With reference now to  FIG. 2 , a first end  20  of the wire  12  can be secured to an upper tensioning block  22 . The first end  20  of the wire  12  can be secured to the upper tensioning block  22  in any suitable manner, including but not limited to, bonding, welding, brazing, soldering, adhering, cohering, and other forms of mechanical connection using interlocking structures or the like.  
         [0055]     A second end  26  of the wire  12  in the illustrated arrangement is connected to an anchor  28 . The anchor  28  is adapted to be received within in a lower tensioning block  30  in a manner that will be described. The second end  26  of the wire  12  also can be connected to the lower tensioning block  30  in other suitable manners. Preferably, however, the second end  26  of the wire  12  is connected in a manner that allows the tension in the wire  12  to be adjusted. It also should be mentioned that the wire  12  can be split into separate pieces such that the first end and the second end are not necessary directly connected along a single piece of wire (e.g., the two wires can extend about the perimeter of the lens and be connected together in any suitable manner).  
         [0056]     With reference now to  FIG. 2 , a portion of each of the upper tensioning block  22  and a lower tensioning block  30  that lies generally adjacent the lens  18  preferably comprises a raised lip or tooth  34  that advantageously fits inside the groove  14  in the lens  18 . The tooth  34  reduces the likelihood that the tensioning blocks  22 ,  30  will slide off of the peripheral side of the lens  18 . Thus, the tooth advantageously enhances the stability of the mounting of the upper tensioning block  22  and the lower tensioning block  30  to the lens  18 . In some arrangements, only the upper or the lower block  22 ,  30  will include the tooth  34 . In other arrangements, such as those shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23 , neither block includes any teeth and generally flush connections are provided between the tensioning blocks  22 ,  30  and the periphery of the lenses  18 . As also shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23 , the periphery of the lenses  18  can be generally square or more rounded (compare  FIG. 22  to  FIG. 23 ). Preferably, the contour of the abutting surface of at least one, and more preferably both, of the tensioning blocks  22 ,  20  is shaped to complement the peripheral surface of the associated lens  18 .  
         [0057]     With reference now to  FIG. 4 , the lower block  30  preferably comprises a passage  36  and a receptacle  38 . The passage  36  and the receptacle  38  preferably are connected such that the wire  12  can be inserted into the passage  36  and the anchor  28  can be placed into the receptacle  38 . It should be noted that throughout the disclosure, unless otherwise specified or apparent, diameters of any passages, bores, or other channels or formations that accept the wire preferably are sufficiently greater than the diameter of the associated wire to facilitate movement of the movement therein. In the illustrated arrangement, the passage  36  comprises a generally cylindrical tunnel. In some arrangements, the passage  36  can be a slot that extends through a surface of the lower block  30 . In other arrangements, the receptacle  38  can be positioned on the upper block  22  and the passage can extend through at least a portion of both blocks. In further arrangements, the receptacle  38  can be positioned in the upper block  30  and the passage  36  can be a slot that extends through at least the upper block  22  and, in some arrangements, both the upper block  22  and the lower block  30 . While arrangements with slots may have less strength in the blocks, assembly is more easily accomplished. Further, while arrangements with the receptacle  38  in the upper block  22  may have an advantage in that tensioning the wire  12  draws the blocks  22 ,  30  together, placing the receptacle  38  in the lower block  30  conceals the anchor  28 .  
         [0058]     The upper tensioning block  22  and the lower tensioning block  30  can be connected together in any suitable manner. For instance, in the illustrated arrangement, the two blocks  22 ,  30  can be securely assembled with one or more threaded fasteners  42  (see  FIG. 2 ). It should be noted that throughout the application, any threaded fastener can be replaced by a suitable fastening arrangement, including but not limited to, snap-fit assemblies or components or press-fit components. Other suitable fastening arrangements also can be used. For instance, if the anchor  28  is positioned in a receptacle  38  in the upper block  22  and the wire passes through both blocks  22 ,  30 , wraps around the lens  18  and is connected to the upper block  22 , then tightening the wire  12  would tend to draw the two blocks  22 ,  30  together.  
         [0059]     With reference to  FIG. 3 , the illustrated threaded fastener  42  is received within a countersunk bore  44 , which bore  44  has a countersunk portion  46  and extends through the upper block  22 . A bore  50  in the lower block  30  is generally aligned with the bore  44  in the upper block  22 . The bore  50  in the lower block  30  preferably is threaded while the bore  44  in the upper block  22  is not.  
         [0060]     With reference to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the wire  12  can be adjusted by an adjustment screw  52  to a predetermined tension once the upper tensioning block  22  and the lower tensioning block  30  are securely assembled. In the illustrated arrangement, a threaded hole  54  is positioned in the lower block  30 . The adjustment screw  52  is inserted into the hole  54 . Preferably, the hole  54  intersects the passage  36  in a region in which the passage  36  has a wall opposite to the hole  54  but more than at least one diameter of the wire  12  from the intersection of the hole  54  and the passage  36  such that the adjustment screw can offset the wire.  
         [0061]     When the adjustment screw  52  is threaded into the hole  54 , the wire  12  is offset laterally within the passage  36 . By offsetting the wire  12 , the wire  12  is tightened around the lens  18 . If the adjustment screw  52  is retracted from the hole  54 , the wire  12  moves in a manner that allows the tension on the wire  12  to be reduced.  
         [0062]     With reference to  FIGS. 7-9 , another preferred embodiment of a wire tensioning system  10  is shown. In this arrangement, an anchor bar  60  is attached to the second end  26 ′ of the wire  12 ′. The lower tension block  30 ′, in turn, comprises a number of slots  62 . The slots  62  preferably are connected with a connecting slot  63 . The connecting slot  63  accommodates a portion of the wire  12 ′ as desired.  
         [0063]     The slots  62 ,  63  preferably have a depth of at least the diameter of the wire  12 ′. In some arrangements, the slots  62 ,  63  can have depths that differ from each other. Moreover, in some arrangements, the slots  62 ,  63  can be formed such that the lower block  30 ′ has a portion of the depth of the slots  62 ,  63  while the upper block  22 ′ also has a portion of the depth of the slots  62 ,  63 . Such a configuration, however, is less desirable from a manufacturing and assembly standpoint.  
         [0064]     The anchor bar  60  advantageously can be positioned in one of the many possible slots  62  incorporated into the lower tensioning block  30 ′. Depending upon into which slot  62  the anchor bar  60  is placed, the tension on the wire  12 ′ will increase or decrease. For example, if the anchor bar  60  is positioned in a slot  64  the length of the wire  12 ′ will be a predetermined length corresponding to a wire tension. If, however, the anchor bar  60  is placed in a different slot  68 , the length of the wire  12 ′ will be another length corresponding to another wire tension. By positioning the anchor bar  60  in the different possible slots  62 , the tension of the wire  12 ′ can be adjusted to a proper wire tension.  
         [0065]     While the illustrated arrangement shows a generally T-shaped anchor bar  60 , other shapes also can be used. In addition, the slots  62 ,  63  can have different configurations, if desired. The various shapes of the anchor bar  60  and corresponding slots  62  can include, but are not limited to a ball shape, a square shape, or any shape that allows the filament wire  12  to be securely held in the corresponding slots  62  within the lower tensioning block  30 .  
         [0066]     In one arrangement, the slot  63  extends through the end of the combined blocks  22 ′,  30 ′ and the anchor bar  60  is angled rearward such that a point is defined toward the end of the combined blocks. In this arrangement, the anchor bar  60  preferably is slightly nonyieldably bendable such that the end of the wire  12 ′ can be positioned to extend out of the combined blocks  22 ′,  30 ′ and pulled to increase the tension with the anchor bar  60  designed to reduce the likelihood that the wire  12 ′ retracts out of the housing and reduces the tension once locked in position by the anchor bar  60 .  
         [0067]     While not shown, the blocks  22 ′,  30 ′ can be secured together in any suitable manner. For instance, the blocks  22 ′,  30 ′ can be connected with threaded fasteners, mechanical clips, clasps, interlocking structures, welding, soldering, brazing, adhesives, cohesion, or the like.  
         [0068]     With reference now to  FIGS. 10-12 , another wire tensioning system  10 ″ is shown therein. Incorporated into the lower tensioning block  30 ″ is an adjustment passage  70  (see  FIG. 11 ) with at least one channel  72  that allows an anchor or adjustment block  76  to move up and down within the adjustment area  70 . The adjustment block  76  preferably comprises a predetermined number of guide teeth  78  corresponding to the number of channels  72  in the adjustment area  70 . The guide teeth  78  generally maintain the adjustment block  76  in a desired orientation. Other sizes, shapes and configurations of adjustments blocks  76  and passages  70  also can be used.  
         [0069]     A threaded member  80  extends through at least a portion of the block  30 ″. The illustrated threaded member  80  is positioned inside a through hole  86  in the lower tensioning block  30 ″ and against a shoulder  88 . The threaded member  80  preferably engages with a threaded portion of the adjustment block  76  such that rotating the threaded member  80  drives the adjustment block  76  along the length of the screw. In the illustrated arrangement, the adjustment block  76  is suitably connected to the wire  12 ″ such that movement of the adjustment block  76  increases and decreases the tension of the wire  12 ″.  
         [0070]     With reference now to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , another wire tensioning system  10 ′″ is illustrated therein. In the illustrated arrangement, an anchor  92  is attached to the second end  26 ′″ of the filament wire  12 ′″. In the illustrated arrangement, the anchor  92  is generally spherical; however, other sizes, shapes and configurations of an anchor  92  also can be used, including but not limited to expanded wire diameters, knots, and separate components that are attached to the wire in any suitable manner.  
         [0071]     With reference to  FIG. 14 , an externally threaded socket ring  94  allows the wire  12 ′″ to pass through a through hole  96  that forms an integrated socket  100  where the ball anchor  92  can rest and rotate within the socket  100 . It is advantageous that the socket  100  can rotate relative to the anchor  92 . Other suitable socket configurations also can be used.  
         [0072]     An adjustment screw  102  preferably has an outer threaded surface  104  as well as an inner threaded bore  108 . The threaded socket ring  94  advantageously is received within the threaded bore  108  such that the anchor  92  can be captured within the adjustment screw  102 . The adjustment screw assembly  103 , which comprises the anchor  92 , the second end  26  of the wire  12 , and the socket ring  94 , then can be threaded into either of the tensioning blocks. Preferably, however, the adjustment screw assembly  103  is positioned within the lower tensioning block  30 ′″.  
         [0073]     When assembled, the wire tensioning system  10 ′″ illustrated in  FIGS. 13 and 14  allows the wire tension to be adjusted as the adjusting screw  102  is rotated. For example, if the adjusting screw  102  is rotated in one direction, the captured anchor  92  pulls on the wire  12 ′″ to increase the tension of the wire  12 ′″. If the adjustment screw  102  is rotated in the opposite direction, the tension of the wire  12  is decreased.  
         [0074]     With reference now to  FIGS. 15-17 , a further wire tensioning system  10 ″″ is shown. In this arrangement, the second end  26 ″″ of the filament wire  12 ″″ is advantageously attached to a mounting plate  112 . The mounting plate  112  and numerous similarly shaped shims  116  each comprise a hole  118  through which a fastening screw  120  can pass. The upper tensioning block  22 ″″ has a threaded hole  124  that receives the fastening screw  120  and allows the fastening screw  124  to secure the mounting plate  112  as well as at least any desired shims  116 .  
         [0075]     Adding shims  116  between the mounting plate  112  and the upper tensioning block  22 ″″ reduces the tension around the lens  18 ″″ ( FIG. 16 ). For example, if one shim  116  is placed between the mounting plate  112  and the upper tensioning block  22 ″″, then the tension in the wire  12 ″″ will be higher than if two or more shims  116  are placed between the mounting plate  112  and the upper tensioning block  22 ″″. Shims  116  that are not used to determine the tension in the wire  12 ″″ can be placed between the mounting plate  112  and the screw  120 , if desired. Therefore, all the shims  116  can be assembled together between the screw  120  and the upper tensioning block  22 ″″, however only the shims that are placed between the mounting plate  112  and the upper tensioning block  22 ″″ will determine the tension in the wire  12 ″″.  
         [0076]     With reference to  FIGS. 18-21 , a further wire tensioning system  10 ′″″ will be described. The upper tensioning block  22 ′″″ has a tensioning recess  126 . The lower tensioning block  30 ′″″ has a tensioning recess  128  that is similar in shape to and is positioned relatively opposite the upper tensioning block recess  126 . In some arrangements, the entire recess can be formed in a single tensioning block. The recesses have a portion that is substantially width as one diameter of the wire and another larger portion that allows a length of the cable to be offset within the recess. Offsetting the cable, as will be described below, allows the tension to be adjusted within the system  10 ′″″.  
         [0077]     The two tension blocks  22 ′″″,  30 ′″″ can be connected in any suitable manner. For instance, in the illustrated arrangement, an upper threaded portion  132  of a threaded hole  134  is positioned in the upper tensioning block  22 ′″″ and a lower threaded portion  136  of the threaded hole  134  is positioned in the lower tensioning block  30 ′″″. It is envisioned that one block may have a threaded hole in its entirety.  
         [0078]     In the illustrated arrangement, the lower tensioning block  30 ′″″ includes a through hole  138  that allows a screw  140  to pass through and enter a threaded hole  141  located in the upper tensioning block  22 ′″″. When the upper tensioning block and the lower tensioning block are assembled and held together by the screw  140  (see  FIG. 20 ), the upper threaded portion  132  and the lower threaded portion  136  form the threaded hole  134  described above. The threaded hole  134  receives an adjustment screw  142  and allows the adjustment screw  142  to change the tension in the filament wire  12 ′″″.  
         [0079]     The first end  20 ′″″ of the wire  12 ′″″ is advantageously attached to the upper tensioning block  22 ′″″ at point  144 . The second end  26  of the wire  12 ′″″ is advantageously attached to the lower tensioning block  30 ′″″ at a point  148 . The first end  20 ′″″ and second end  26 ′″″ of the wire  12 ′″″ can be secured to the upper tensioning block  22 ′″″ and to the lower tensioning block  30 ′″″, respectively, in any suitable manner, including but not limited to, bonding, welding, or secured by any suitable fastener.  
         [0080]     In the illustrated arrangement, a tension plate  150  is placed between the adjustment screw  142  and the wires  12 ′″″ (see  FIGS. 19-21 ) within the tensioning recesses  126  and  128 . Because the wire ends  20 ′″″,  26 ′″″ are attached to the upper and lower tensioning blocks  22 ′″″,  30 ′″″ respectively, when the adjusting screw  142  is rotated against the tension plate  150 , the tension plate  150  changes the tension of the wires  12 ′″″. This change in tension allows the wire to tighten or loosen around the lens. When the adjustment screw  142  is rotated in one direction the tensioning plate  150  can increase the tension of the attached wires. If, however, the adjustment screw  142  is rotated in the opposite direction, the tensioning plate  150  can decrease the tension of the attached wires  12 ′″″.  
         [0081]     With reference now to  FIGS. 24-29 , any of the eyewear described above can receive any of a number of bridge constructions. The bridge constructions facilitate the joining of both lenses  18 .  FIGS. 24-29  illustrate four variations of bridge constructions. Other bridge designs also can be used if desired.  
         [0082]     With reference now to  FIGS. 24 and 25 , a bridge  200  is illustrated therein. The bridge  200  can comprise a central portion  202  and a pair of legs  204 . The legs extend generally downward from the central portion  202  and, together with the central portion  202 , define a generally inverted U-shaped bridge  200 . While other dimension can be practicable, for a robust design, the legs  204  preferably have a thickness (see  FIG. 24 ) that is at least one wire diameter while the legs  204  preferably have a width (see  FIG. 25 ) that is at least two wire diameters. Moreover, the bridge  200  can have any suitable cross-sectional shape, including portions having differing cross-sections. For instance, the central portion  202  can be cylindrical, tubular, rectangular, square, oval or the like. In addition, the legs  204  can be generally flat but other cross-sectional shapes also can be used.  
         [0083]     At least one hole  206  preferably is formed in each of the pair of legs  204 . In the illustrated arrangement, two holes  206  are positioned in each of the legs  204 . In some embodiments three or more holes can be used. Having two holes  206  is believed to improve the ability of the bridge to remain in position once the associated eyewear is fully assembled and in use. Moreover, in frame assembles that featuring fully adjustable lengths (e.g., lenses of substantially different perimeter dimensions can be accommodated), the position of the bridge  200  along the wire can be fully adjusted into a desired position. Similarly, in frame assemblies featuring the ability to accommodate differing shapes but not necessarily different perimeter dimensions, the bridge  200  can be repositioned relative to the lens shape until a desired positioning is achieved.  
         [0084]     The holes  206  preferably are greater than one diameter of the wire and less than two diameters of the wire. In some constructions, the holes  206  can be greater than two diameters of the wire, but such sizing may result in an increased width of the legs  204 , which may be less desirable in some eyewear configurations.  
         [0085]     The holes  206  preferably are formed with a recessed or inset region  210  of the legs  204  extending between the holes  206 . The inset region  210  preferably is sized and configured to be accepted within the groove of the associated lens. Such a construction allows at least a portion of the width legs  204 , not necessarily including the inset region  210 , to abut a surface of the perimeter of the associated lens. Moreover, in the illustrated arrangement, the wire advantageously does not protrude beyond the legs  204 . Such a construction aids in the appearance of a rimless look. In some embodiments, however, the wire can extend slightly beyond the surface of leg  204  such that the wire slightly protrudes from the leg  204 . In such constructions, the recess  210  can have a decreased dimension or the legs  204  can have a smaller overall dimension.  
         [0086]     In use, the wire can be threaded through the holes  206  prior to assembly of the associated wire and lens components. The bridge  200  can be positioned along the lenses as desired and can be secured in position when the wire is closed in a loop. The wire tension can be adjusted in any manner set forth above and with any suitable construction, including those discussed above.  
         [0087]     With reference now to  FIG. 26 , a bridge  230  is illustrated therein. The bridge  230  comprises a central portion  232  with a short extension  234  positioned at each end of the central portion. In some arrangements, the extensions  234  can be omitted. Moreover, any suitable cross-sectional shapes can be used for the central portion  232  and the extensions  234 . In the illustrated arrangement, a pair of wires (or wire portions) are fixed to the extensions  234 . The wires (or wire portions) can be fixed in any suitable manner, including but not limited to soldering, welding, adhering, or mechanically interlocking structures. Furthermore, the ends of the wires (or wire portions) can be directly fixed to the central portion  232 , if desired. This construction allows the placement of the bridge to be securely fixed relative to the lens when the eyewear is fully assembled. Moreover, this construction facilitates correct alignment of the lens axis because the bridge position is not likely to shift along the length of the wire during or after assembly.  
         [0088]     With reference now to  FIGS. 27 and 28 , a further bridge  240  is illustrated therein. In this arrangement, the bridge  240  generally comprises a central portion  242  and a short extension  244  positioned at each end of the central portion. In some arrangements, legs similar to those shown in  FIGS. 24 and 25  can be used in place of the extensions  244 . Similar to each of the constructions described above, the bridge and its component(s) can have any suitable cross-sectional configuration. Moreover, the cross-sectional configuration can be varied along any portion of the bridge.  
         [0089]     A passage  246  preferably extends through at least a portion of each extension  244 . In the illustrated arrangement, the passage  246  extends through the full length of the extension  244  but other constructions can feature passages that extend through a limited portion of the extension. Moreover, in some variations, the passage  246  can extend through an end of the central portion and the extensions  244  can be omitted. The passage can have any suitable cross-sectional configuration. In some arrangements, the passage  246  is cylindrical or has an elliptical or oval cross-section. Preferably, at least one lateral dimension of the passage  246  is greater than one diameter of the associated wire. Similarly, the extension  244  preferably is larger than at least two diameters of the associated wire such that a robust construction results. The dimensions of the components can be varied as desired.  
         [0090]     With respect to the arrangement of  FIGS. 27 and 28 , the bridge  240  can be used with eyewear having a fixed wire length or a fully adjustable wire length. The bridge  240  can be moved along the length of the wire to achieve a desired bridge placement. Moreover, the bridge can be easily removed from the wire and be replaced on a different wire, which allows the wire to be replaced as needed or desired. The bridge  240  also advantageously allows the connection to the wire to be substantially hidden when the eyewear is fully assembled, which can be desired in some eyewear constructions. The obscured attachment location further enhances the rimless appearance of the eyewear with which the bridge  240  is used.  
         [0091]     With reference to  FIG. 29 a  further bridge  260  is illustrated therein. In this arrangement, as with those described above, the bridge  260  generally comprises a central portion  262  and a short extension  264  positioned at each end of the central portion  262 . In some arrangements, legs similar to those shown in  FIGS. 24 and 25  can be used in place of the extensions  264 . Similar to each of the constructions described above, the bridge and its component(s) can have any suitable cross-sectional configuration. Moreover, the cross-sectional configuration can be varied along any portion of the bridge.  
         [0092]     A passage  266  preferably extends through at least a portion of each extension  264 . In the illustrated arrangement, the passage  246  extends through the full length of the extension  264  but other constructions can feature passages that extend through a limited portion of the extension. Moreover, in some variations, the passage  266  can extend through an end of the central portion and the extensions  264  can be omitted. The passage  266  can have any suitable cross-sectional configuration. In some arrangements, the passage  266  is cylindrical or has an elliptical or oval cross-section. Preferably, at least one lateral dimension of the passage  266  is greater than one diameter of the associated wire. Similarly, the extension  264  preferably is larger than at least two diameters of the associated wire such that a robust construction results. The dimensions of the components can be varied as desired.  
         [0093]     While the bridge  260  of  FIG. 29  is similar to the bridge  240  of  FIG. 28 , the bridge  260  of  FIG. 29  further includes a wire locking mechanism  270 . The locking mechanism  270  comprises a projection  272  that extends through an opening  274 . The projection  272  has a length sufficient to contact a portion of the wire that passes through the passage  266 . In some arrangements, the projection is formed on a leaf  276 . In further arrangements, another projection  278  can be positioned on an opposite side of the leaf  276 . This opposing projection  278  preferably is sized and configured to fit within the groove formed in the peripheral surface of the lens. If the portion of the leaf  276  carrying the projections  272 ,  278  is slightly offset, as in the illustrated arrangement, the opposing projection can be smaller than the diameter of the wire or the depth of the groove in the lens.  
         [0094]     The leaf  276  can be secured to the extension  264  with the projection  272  positioned in the opening  274  and the opposing projection  278  extending toward the ultimate position of the lens. Thus, as the lens is positioned and tightened in its location adjacent to the extension  264 , the lens contacts the opposing projection  278 , which urges the projection  272  through the opening  274  and into engagement with the wire.  
         [0095]     Preferably a recess  280  is formed in the passage  266  to allow the wire to be offset into the recess  280 . In some arrangements, the recess  280  is formed when the opening  274  is formed through the extension  264 . The wire preferably is sufficiently flexible to allow the wire to be offset into the recess when the eyewear is being assembled and the tension is being adjusted on the wire.  
         [0096]     In assembling eyewear comprising any of the above-described tensioning systems, the lens is first prepared and a groove is formed in an outer peripheral edge of the lens. The cable is secured to the tensioning block or blocks, as set forth above. The cable then is closed about the lens with the cable being positioned within the groove. The cable can be slightly tightened about the lens to allow the cable to securely mount at least one a pair of temples or a bridge. In some situations, the cable can be slightly loosened to allow the tension blocks or the cable to be securely closed about the lens. Tightening and loosening the cable is cable in the manners set forth above.  
         [0097]     Although the present invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments, examples and variations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. For instance, the exterior shape and dimensions of the closing members, housings or projections can be any suitable shape or configuration, including the use of curved or straight surfaces in the place of straight or curved surfaces so long as the wire and/or any tensioning components can be properly attached thereto, positioned there within or associated therewith. Moreover, any of the closing members, housings or projections described herein can have legs or projections that extend along a portion of the lens surface, for aesthetic reasons and/or to add additional desired support to the assembly by increasing the contact area between the component and the respective lens.  
         [0098]     It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Moreover, some variations that have been described with respect to one embodiment and not another embodiment can be used with such other embodiments. Moreover, while most of the embodiments above are shown with symmetrical constructions, it is practicable to use constructions that vary from the left lens to the right lens and such constructions would not necessarily avoid the scope of protection afforded to the disclosed embodiments. Many other variations also have been described herein and cross-application is intended where physically possible. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

Technology Classification (CPC): 6