Abstract:
Described herein are various embodiments of eyewear provided for advantageous use in sports and work, as well as in casual activity. According to one embodiment, an eyeglass can include a frame and an eyecup assembly coupled to the frame. The eyecup assembly can include a resilient side member that has a first proximal portion that is fixed relative to the frame and a second distal portion that is movable relative to the frame and biased toward the frame. The eyecup assembly can also include an adjustment mechanism that is coupled to the resilient side member and positioned at least partially between the resilient side member and the frame. The adjustment mechanism can be selectively operable to flex the resilient side member to move the second distal portion away from the frame and to un-flex the resilient side member to move the second distal portion toward the frame.

Description:
REFERENCE TO PENDING PRIOR PATENT APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119 (e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/018,216, filed Dec. 31, 2007 by Jackson Hogen for “ADJUSTABLE EYECUP EYEWEAR AND METHODS OF USE,” which patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     This disclosure pertains to eyewear. More particularly, this disclosure pertains to eyewear, including glasses and sunglasses, having an adjustable eyecup. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Wearing of eyeglasses and the like while engaged in vigorous activity can be difficult for various reasons. One key reason is a fundamental inability of most eyeglass frames to provide a protective seal around a wearer&#39;s eyes for preventing wind, dust, dirt, moisture, glare, ultraviolet radiation, and other contaminants and debris from contacting, and potentially damaging, the wearer&#39;s eyes. 
     Many people wear eyeglasses for reasons other than, or in addition to, vision correction. Well-known examples are the large number of different types of “sunglasses” that reduce the intensity (and/or change the wavelength) of light reaching the wearer&#39;s eyes. Other well-known examples are so-called “safety glasses” usually used for eye protection in industrial and laboratory environments. Yet other well-known examples are various “goggles” and the like. 
     As used herein, “eyewear” generally encompasses all of various eyeglass types summarized above as well as any other analogous device configured to fit to a person&#39;s face and that includes a “frame” and “lenses.” The frame typically has a front portion situated largely in front of the wearer&#39;s eyes. The lenses are mounted to the front portion and transmit at least some light to the wearer&#39;s eyes. Mounted to the front portion are “temple pieces” that extend rearward from the front portion to engage and/or rest upon the wearer&#39;s ears. The temple pieces usually, but not necessarily, are hinged to the front portion. 
     To address the concerns raised by the need for protection of the wearer&#39;s eyes during activity, various schemes have been adopted. For example, certain types of eyewear, notably safety goggles and certain types of eyeglasses, employ shields, liners, and other sealing members for protecting a wearer&#39;s eyes during use, such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,083,276; 7,036,927; 6,988,798; and 7,013,495, as well as U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004/0051839. Unfortunately, the sealing members of these types of eyewear are not adjustable to conform to various face sizes and shapes. Therefore, such eyewear may fail to provide adequate protection for the wearer&#39;s eyes during activity, provide sufficient venting, or retain the versatility from which, for example, extended wear may benefit. 
     Some schemes have been tried to improve the protection of a wearer&#39;s eyes by providing adjustable sealing members. For example, a first scheme involves adjusting the spacing between two lenses or pivoting eye cups to conform to the facial contour of a wearer, such as discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,108,074. A second scheme involves inflating or deflating an inflatable cushion member to provide an adjustable seal against contaminants, such as discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,129,109. A third scheme involves retracting or extending, such as by pivoting, retractable eyeshields to provide eye protection that can be adjusted to an individual wearer, such as discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,422,684. Unfortunately, these various schemes tend to be highly specialized and do not address all needs, especially needs posed by concepts of style and utility that arise with modern sports eyeglasses. 
     SUMMARY 
     Described herein are various embodiments of eyewear provided for advantageous use in sports and work, as well as in casual activity. The eyewear can have one or more adjustable eyecups for providing a custom fit around the eyes and protecting the eyes from undesirable contaminants. More specifically, in some embodiments, the eyewear can include flexible eyecups that are adjustable by actuation of an adjustment mechanism, such as a cam assembly or detent mechanism. 
     According to one embodiment, an eyeglass can include a frame and an eyecup assembly coupled to the frame. The eyecup assembly can include a resilient side member that has a first proximal portion that is fixed relative to the frame and a second distal portion that is movable relative to the frame and biased toward the frame. The eyecup assembly can also include an adjustment mechanism that is coupled to the resilient side member and positioned at least partially between the resilient side member and the frame. The adjustment mechanism can be selectively operable to flex the resilient side member to move the second distal portion away from the frame and to un-flex the resilient side member to move the second distal portion toward the frame. 
     In some implementations, the adjustment mechanism includes a detent mechanism operable to flex and un-flex the resilient side member. The detent mechanism can include a positioner portion that has a plurality of apertures and a catching portion that is movable relative to the positioner portion and has a resiliently biased catch engageable with the apertures. 
     In some implementations, the adjustment mechanism can include a cam that is movably, e.g., rotatably, engageable with a cam guide. The cam can be movable, e.g., rotatable, relative to the cam guide to flex and un-flex the resilient side member. 
     In some implementations, the eyecup assembly can include a rigid side member that is mounted to the frame. The first proximal portion of the resilient side member can be fixed to the rigid side member and the second distal portion of the resilient side member can be movable relative to the rigid side member. In specific implementations, the resilient side member can be sealingly engageable with the rigid side member as the second distal portion moves away from and toward the frame. In yet other specific implementations, the second distal portion can be movable into one of a plurality of predetermined positions relative to the frame. 
     In some implementations, the eyecup assembly can be a modular self-contained unit. 
     In some implementations, the eyecup assembly can extend continuously about an entire periphery of the frame. 
     In some embodiments, the flexible or moveable portion of an eyecup, or portion thereof, can be retracted or be adjusted into the frame. 
     According to another embodiment, an eyecup assembly for use with an eyeglass having a frame can include a body that includes at least one side portion. The body can be attachable to a frame of an eyeglass such that the at least one side portion at least partially overlays an eye of a wearer when the eyeglass is worn by the wearer. The eyecup assembly can also include at least one side member that is coupled to the body and partially overlay the at least one side portion. The at least one side member can be movable relative to the at least one side portion. Further, the eyecup assembly can include at least one adjustment mechanism that is positioned at least partially between a respective at least one side member and a respective at least one side portion of the body. The at least one adjustment mechanism can include a first portion coupled to a respective one of the at least one side portion and at least one side member and a second portion coupled to the other of the at least one side portion and at least one side member. The first and second portions of the adjustment mechanism are adjustably engageable with each other to move the at least one side member into one of a plurality of predetermined positions relative to the at least one side portion. 
     In some implementations, the at least one adjustment mechanism includes a detent mechanism. Further, first portion can be a positioner portion having a plurality of apertures and the second portion can be a catching portion that is movable relative to the positioner portion. The catching portion can also have a resiliently biased catch that is engageable with the apertures of the positioner portion. 
     In some implementations, the at least one adjustment mechanism can include a cam assembly that has a cam that is movable relative to a cam guide to move the at least one side member relative to the at least one side portion. In certain implementations, the cam guide of the eyecup assembly includes a plurality of stepped portions that each correspond to one of the plurality of predetermined positions. The cam guide can include an engager separately engageable with each of the stepped portions to place the at least one side member into a respective one of the plurality of predetermined positions. In one specific implementation, the engager can be a generally tooth-shaped projection having sloped edges, the cam guide can include a plurality of sloped transition portions each joining adjacent stepped portions of the plurality of stepped portions, and the sloped transition portions and the sloped edges can interact to facilitate movement of the engager between the plurality of stepped portions. 
     In some implementations, the at least one side member can be sealingly engageable with the at least one side portion. In a specific implementation, the at least one side portion can include a projection extending adjacent a periphery of the side portion, the at least one side member can include a channel extending adjacent a periphery of the side member, and the projection can be at least partially positionable within the channel to form a seal between the side portion and the side member when the side member is in any of the plurality of predetermined positions. 
     In some implementations, the plurality of predetermined positions can include a first position in which the at least one side member is adjacent the at least one side portion, a second position in which the at least one side member is distanced away from the at least one side portion a first distance, and a third position in which the at least one side member is distanced away from the at least one side portion a second distance. 
     In some implementations, the cam guide can be integral with the at least one side portion. The eyecup assembly can also include a flexible eye protector that is positioned intermediate the at least one side portion and at least one side member. The at least one side member can be sealingly engageable with the at least one side portion via the flexible eye protector. 
     In some implementations, the at least one side member can be made of a resiliently flexible material. In these implementations, as the at least one side member moves from one predetermined position to another predetermined position, a first portion of the at least one side member remains fixed relative to the at least one side portion and a second portion of the at least one side member is flexed about the first portion. In a specific implementation, the at least one side member can have a bias toward the at least one side portion. In this implementation, the cam can be maintained in engagement with the cam guide by the bias of the at least one side member. 
     In yet some implementations, the body can include a respective side portion for each eye of the wearer. The at least one side member can include a respective side member for each eye of the wearer. The at least one adjustment mechanism can include a respective adjustment mechanism for each eye of the wearer. 
     According to another embodiment, a method for adjusting fit of an eyewear to a wearer can include providing an eyewear that includes a lens portion or shield and an eyecup assembly coupled to the lens portion. The eyecup assembly can include (i) at least one fixed side member that is fixed relative to the lens portion; (ii) at least one resiliently flexible side member that is movably coupled to the at least one fixed side member; and (iii) at least one adjustment mechanism that is coupled to the at least one fixed side member and at least one resilient side member. The method can further include adjusting the adjustment mechanism to flex the at least one resiliently flexible side member away from the at least one fixed side member or un-flex the at least one resiliently flexible side member toward the at least one fixed side member. 
     In some implementations, the at least one adjustment mechanism comprises a detent mechanism that has a positioning portion having a plurality of recesses coupled to a respective one of the at least one fixed side member and at least one resiliently flexible side member and a catching portion that has a catch engageable with the recesses and coupled to the other of the at least one fixed side member and at least one resiliently flexible side member. Further, adjusting the adjustment mechanism can include urging the catch into and out of engagement with the recesses. 
     In specific implementations, the at least one resiliently flexible side member is movable into a plurality of positions relative to the at least one fixed side member. Further, the catch can be biased in a recess engaging position. In these implementations, adjusting the adjustment mechanism can include applying a pressure to the catch sufficient to overcome the bias and move the catch out of the recess engaging position. 
     In some implementations, the adjustment mechanism can include a cam rotatably engageable with a cam guide. In these implementations, adjusting the cam mechanism can include rotating the cam relative to the cam guide. In certain implementations, the cam guide can include a plurality of stepped portions each corresponding to one of a plurality of predetermined positions. The cam guide can include an engager separately engageable with each of the stepped portions. Also, in such certain implementations, adjusting the adjustment mechanism can include engaging a stepped portion of the plurality of stepped portions that corresponds with a desired predetermined position with the engager to place the at least a portion of the at least one resilient side member in the desired predetermined position. 
     In some implementations, adjusting the adjustment mechanism can include adjusting the adjustment mechanism to bend at least a portion of the at least one resilient side member. 
     In some implements, certain embodiments can aid in preventing or treating dry eye, dysfunctional tear syndrome, ocular surface disease, or other possible problems or disorders of the eye. 
     It is to be understood that the foregoing is a summary of certain aspects or features of embodiments disclosed herein. Embodiments of the invention need not necessarily include all such aspects or features or address issues noted in the Background. The foregoing and other features and advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying figures. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The preferred and other embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a top plan view of an eyeglass having an eyecup according to one exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded partial perspective view of the eyecup shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a top plan view of a cam guide as shown in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is a side view of the cam of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5  is this a side view of the cam guide of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  is a top plan view of an eyecup according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective side view of the eyecup of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is an exploded perspective side view of the eyecup of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 9  is a top plan view of an eyeglass having an eyecup according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  is a partial view of the eyecup shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     This disclosure is set forth in the context of representative embodiments that are not intended to be limiting in any way. 
     In the following description, certain terms may be used such as “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “left,” “right,” and the like. These terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships. But, these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and/or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an “upper” surface can become a “lower” surface simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same object. 
     A representative embodiment of an eyeglass is depicted in  FIG. 1 . The eyeglass  10  comprises a substantially rigid frame  12 . The frame  12  is configured to be situated, when fitted to a wearer&#39;s face, at least in front of the wearer&#39;s face at about eye level. The frame  12  defines a bridge  14  that connects together a left lens mounting  16  and a right lens mounting  18 . The frame  12  also comprises left and right nose-pad regions  20   a ,  20   b , respectively. Each lens mounting  16 ,  18  accommodates a respective lens portion (not shown) (each portion generally being a respective “lens” because it is intended to pass light to a respective eye). In some embodiments, the lens portions include an integral connecting portion that extends along the bridge  14 . Hence, the lens portions can be an integral unit. However, in alternative configurations, the lens portions can be individual respective units. 
     In the depicted embodiment, the frame  12  (principally the lens mountings  16 ,  18  thereof, beginning at the bridge  14 ) curves rearwardly in a manner that follows the curve of the wearer&#39;s face, but without actually contacting the wearer&#39;s face. This rearward curve is called “wrap.” Attached to the frame are a left temple piece  28  and a right temple piece  30 . In the illustrated embodiment, the temple pieces  28 ,  30  are pivotally mounted to respective lateral edges  32 ,  34  of the frame  12  via a hinge mechanism (not shown). 
     The eyeglass  10  also comprises an eyecup, or eye sealing member,  40  extending about a periphery of the frame  12  and positioned between the frame and a wearer&#39;s eyes when the eyeglass is worn by the wearer. The eyecup  40  includes an upper central portion  42  proximate an upper edge  46  of the bridge  14  and a lower central portion  44  proximate the nose-pad regions  20   a ,  20   b . The eyecup  40  further includes left and right side assemblies  50 ,  52  respectively, extending about the left and right lens mountings  16 ,  18 , respectively. The eyecup  40  defines an aperture  38  having a size and shape corresponding generally to the size and shape of the lens portions of the eyeglass  10  such that, when the eyecup  40  is coupled to the frame  12 , the wearer can see through the lens portion via the aperture  38 . As shown, the aperture  38  is a single aperture. However, in some embodiments, such as embodiments having separate lens portions, the aperture  38  can comprise two apertures each corresponding to respective lens portions. 
     The eyecup  40  is coupled to an inner surface  36  of the frame  12  and extends generally transversely away from the frame  12  toward the wearer&#39;s face. When worn, the eyecup  40  is configured to contact respective portions of the wearer&#39;s face about the eyes to create a seal between the eyecup and the wearer&#39;s face against contaminants that may be harmful to the eyes. For example, the upper central portion  42  is configured to contact and form a seal between the eyecup and a wearer&#39;s glabella, i.e., the smooth area between the eyebrows just above the nose; the lower central portion  44  is configured to contact and form a seal between the eyecup and a wearer&#39;s nose; and the left and right side assemblies  50 ,  52  overlay, e.g., are adjacent to, respective left and right eyes of the wearer, and are configured to contact and form a seal between the eyecup and the wearer&#39;s left and right eye sockets, respectively. In other words, in some embodiments, the eyecup  40  forms a continuous seal about the wearer&#39;s eyes. 
     The eyecup  40  can be permanently, semi-permanently, or removably coupled to the inner surface  36  of the frame  12  in any of a number of ways. For example, in some embodiments, the eyecup  40  is bonded to the inner surface  36  through use of an adhesive, or other bonding technique. In other embodiments, the eyecup  40  is fastened to the inner surface  36  through use of a fastener assembly such as is commonly known in the art. In yet other embodiments, the eyecup  40  can be formed integrally with the frame to form a one-piece construction with the frame. 
     The eyecup left and right side assemblies  50 ,  52  are independently adjustable to provide a customizable fit and potentially, a more effective seal, for a wearer of the eyeglass. The side assemblies  50 ,  52  includes respective left and right fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b  and respective left and right movable portions  56   a ,  56   b . The fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b  are fixed relative to the upper and lower central portions  42 ,  44 , and thus the frame  12  and the wearer&#39;s face. Conversely, the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are movable relative to the upper and lower central portions  42 ,  44 , and thus the frame  12  and the wearer&#39;s face. 
     The fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b  each include a base wall  60  (see  FIGS. 1 and 2 ). The fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b  also include a respective ridge  62   a ,  62   b  extending about and generally transversely from the base wall  60  adjacent an outer periphery  61  of the base wall. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b  are integrally formed with the upper and lower central portions  42 ,  44  to form a one-piece eyecup body  48 . 
     In alternative embodiments, the fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b  can each comprise a separate unit attached or mounted to the upper and lower central portions  42 ,  44  to form the eyecup body  48 . 
     In certain embodiments, the eyecup  40  includes two separate body portions that are individually attached to the eyeglass frame  12 . Each body portion can include a respective side assembly  50 ,  52  and may or may not include a portion of the upper and central portions  42 ,  44 . For example, the upper and lower central portions can be integrated or separately attached to the eyeglass frame  12 , or alternatively, the eyeglass  10  does not include upper and lower central portions. 
     In some embodiments, the eyecup  40  is a self-contained and modular unit. In other words, the eyecup  40  functions independently of the frame  12  such that the eyecup  40  can be attached to and removed from the frame without inhibiting the functionality of or damaging the eyecup or frame. In this manner, the eyecup  40  can be, in certain implementations, interchangeable with two or more frames. 
     The movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  extend from respective proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b  to respective distal end portions  66   a ,  66   b . Referring to  FIG. 2 , which shows further detail of the left fixed and movable portions  54   a ,  56   a , from which details of the right fixed and movable portions  54   b ,  56   b  also will be understood, the left movable portion has an outer periphery  68  that corresponds generally to the outer periphery  61  of the left fixed portion and an inner periphery  69  that corresponds generally to the aperture  38 . The left movable portion  56   a  includes an outer edge portion  70  extending from an upper of the proximal end portions  64   a , about the outer periphery  68 , to a lower of the proximal end portions  64   a . The outer edge portion  70  defines a recess  72  configured to receive at least a portion of the ridge  62   a . In the illustrated embodiment, the recess  72  and the ridge  62   a  are shaped and sized to nestably engage each other when the movable portion  56   a  is in a first, or fully-retracted, position as explained in more detail below. The movable portion  56   a  further includes a wall  74  extending between the outer edge portion and the inner periphery  69 . The wall  74  defines an aperture  76  for receiving a portion of an adjustment mechanism, which will be explained in more detail below. 
     The proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b  of the respective movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are coupled to the eyecup body  48  such that the proximal end portions are closer to the upper and lower central portions  42 ,  44  than the distal end portions  66   a ,  66   b . At least part of the proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b , such as respective attachment surfaces  65   a ,  65   b , can be coupled to the body  48 . The attachment surfaces  65   a ,  65   b  are outwardly facing surfaces of the proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b  extending from a proximal end  67   a ,  67   b  of the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  a distance D 1  (see  FIGS. 1 and 2 ). The proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b  can be coupled to the eyecup body  48  by any of various coupling or bonding techniques. For example, the proximal end portion  64   a  can be bonded to the eyecup body  48  by placing a bonding material, such as glue, between the attachment surface  65   a  and the central portions  42 ,  44  and/or between the attachment surface and the base wall  60 . Desirably, the proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b  are fixed relative to the central portions  42 ,  44 , and thus the eyecup body  48  or the frame  12 . However, in some embodiments, the proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b  can be allowed to move, such as rotate or pivot, relative to the central portions  42 ,  44 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are made of a resilient and at least partially flexible material having a bias in an un-flexed state. Referring to  FIG. 1 , when the proximal end portion  64   a  is coupled to the eyecup body  48  and the movable portion  56   a  is in an un-flexed state, the movable portion  56   a  is in a first, or closed, position  130 . Accordingly, the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are biased in the closed position  130 . In the closed position  130 , the recess  72  is fully nested within the ridge  62   a  (see detailed portion of  FIG. 2 ), and substantially the entire outer edge portion  70  is in contact with, or at least in very close proximity to, the base wall  60  (see  FIG. 1 ). 
     The flexibility of the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  allows the distal end portions  66   a ,  66   b  to be pivoted, bent, or flexed about the proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b  away from and towards the respective fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b . In other words, when the eyeglass  10  is worn by a wearer, the distal end portions  66   a ,  66   b  are movable towards and away from the wearer&#39;s face by flexing and un-flexing the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b . In implementations using a bonding material to bond the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  to the central portions  42 ,  44 , the bonding material provides sufficient adhesion between the proximal end portions  64   a ,  64   b  and the central portions  42 ,  44  to maintain the ends in coupling engagement with the central portions as the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are moved between a flexed and un-flexed state. 
     Each side assembly  50 ,  52  includes an adjustment mechanism, such as cam assembly  80  shown in  FIG. 2 , for adjustably positioning the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  relative to the respective fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b . The details of the cam assembly  80  of the left side assembly  50  can be understood to apply to the cam assembly of the right side assembly  52 . The cam assembly  80  is positioned at least partially between the fixed portion  54   a  and the movable portion  56   a . The cam assembly  80  includes a cam guide  82  and a cam  84  that is engageable with and movable, e.g., rotatable, slidable, pivotable, etc., relative to the cam guide  82 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , in the illustrated embodiment, the cam guide  82  has a generally circular outer periphery and is formed integrally with the base wall  60  of the left fixed portion  54   a . However, in other embodiments, the cam guide  82  is formed as a separate unit and attached to the base wall  60 , such as with fasteners or a bonding adhesive. The cam guide  82  comprises a first stepped portion  88  and a second stepped portion  90  projecting rearwardly generally transversely from the base wall  60 . The cam guide  82  further comprises a third stepped portion  92 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the third stepped portion  92  is a rearward surface of the base wall  60  between the first and second stepped portions  88 ,  90 . Although in the illustrated embodiment, the third stepped portion  92  is essentially a portion of the base wall  60 , in other embodiments, the third stepped portion  92  can project rearwardly generally transversely from the base wall  60  in the same manner as the first and second stepped portions  88 ,  90 . The first, second, and third stepped portions  88 ,  90 ,  92  have upper surfaces at different heights relative to the base wall  60 . For example, in one implementation, the first stepped portion  88  has a height H 1 , the second stepped portion  90  has a height H 2 , and the third stepped portion  92  has a height H 3  (see  FIG. 5 ). In specific implementations, the height H 1  is zero, the height H 2  is 2 mm and the height H 3  is 4 mm. The first, second, and third stepped portions  88 ,  90 ,  92  are adjoined by respective transition portions  94 ,  96 ,  98  having sloped surfaces relative to the stepped portions. The cam guide  82  further includes an aperture cut-out  100  defined between the stepped and transition portions. The aperture cut-out  100  is coextensive with an aperture  102  formed in the base wall  60 . 
     The cam  84  extends longitudinally from a first end  110  to a second end  112  with a cam guide engager  114  extending from the first end  110  and an adjustment-tool-receiving-portion  116  extending from the second end  112 . The cam-guide engager  114  can be a tooth-shaped projection configured to be separately engageable with the first, second, and third stepped portions  88 ,  90 ,  92 . The cam-guide engager  114  includes a first angled, or sloped, edge  118  and a second angled, or sloped, edge  120  generally opposite the first angled edge. A guide-contact edge  122  extends between the first and second sloped edges  118 ,  120 . The adjustment-tool-receiving portion  116  defines an aperture  124  configured to receive an adjustment tool (not shown), such as an Allen wrench or key. In other words, the aperture  124  can have the same general cross-sectional shape as the adjustment tool, such as, for example, a hexagonal cross-sectional shape. 
     The cam  84  is held in engagement with the cam guide  82  between the movable portion  56   a  and the fixed portion  54   a  due to the bias of the movable portion  56   a . Such a configuration provides certain advantages, such as, for example, the overall number of components required to manufacture the eyecup  40  can be reduced, which can lead to lower costs, increased reliability, and ease in manufacturing. 
     The adjustment-tool-receiving portion  116  extends at least partially through and is rotatable within the aperture  76 . The aperture  76  acts to maintain the cam  84  in proper alignment with the cam guide  82  as the cam rotates relative to the cam guide. When in proper alignment, the aperture  76 , aperture  124 , and aperture  102  are generally coaxial with each other. The movable portion  56   a  applies a pressure on the cam  84  such that the cam-guide engager  114  remains in contact with the cam guide  82 . More specifically, the guide-contact edge  122  of the cam  84  is maintained in contact with one of the stepped portions  88 ,  90 ,  92  of the cam guide  82  due to the bias of the movable portion  56   a.    
     Although in the illustrated embodiments, the cam guide  82  is secured to the fixed portion  54   a  and the cam  84  is positioned between the cam guide and the movable portion  56   a , in other embodiments, the cam guide  82  can be secured, e.g., integrally or attached, to the movable portion and the cam can be positioned between the cam guide and the fixed portion. 
     The cam assembly  80  is adjustable to position the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  into two or more positions relative to the fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b . For example, referring to  FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are adjustable into one of three positions, e.g., the first, or closed, position  130 , a second, or intermediate, position  132 , and a third, or fully-open, position  134 . As described above, in the first position  130 , the distal end portions  66   a ,  66   b  are in contact with, or at least in very close proximity to, the base wall  60 . In the second position  132 , the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are flexed such that the distal end portions  66   a ,  66   b  are displaced, or distanced away from the base wall  60 , a distance D 2 . In the third position  134 , the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are flexed such that the distal end portions  66   a ,  66   b  are displaced a distance D 3 . In one specific exemplary implementation, the distance D 2  is 2 mm and the distance D 3  is 4 mm such that the total adjustability of both the left and right side assemblies  50 ,  52  is 8 mm. In other implementations, the distances D 2  and D 3  can be any of various equal or unequal distances. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the guide contact edge  122  of the cam-guide engager  114  contacts one of the stepped portions  88 ,  90 ,  92  to place the movable portion  56   a  in the first, second, and third positions  130 ,  132 ,  134 , respectively. The cam  84  is movable, e.g., rotatable, relative to the cam guide  82  to move the guide-contact edge  122  out of contact with one stepped portion and into contact with another stepped portion to move the movable portion  56   a  from one position to another position. For example, the cam  84  can be rotated in a first direction, e.g., a clockwise direction  140 , to move the guide contact edge  122  from being in contact with stepped portion  88  to being in contact with either stepped portion  90  or stepped portion  92  to move the movable portion  56   a  from the first position  130  to either the second or third positions  132 ,  134 , respectively. 
     Rotation of the cam guide engager  114  from one stepped portion to another can be facilitated by the first through third transition portions  94 ,  96 ,  98  between the stepped portions and the sloped edges  118 ,  120  of the cam guide engager  114 . For example, from the first position  130 , as the cam  84  is rotated in the clockwise direction  140 , the sloped edge  120  of the cam guide engager  114  contacts and slides upwardly along the third transition portion  98  of the cam guide  82  until the guide-contact edge  122  contacts the second stepped portion  90  to place the movable portion  56   a  in the second position  132 . Likewise, from the second position  132 , as the cam  84  is rotated in the clockwise direction  140 , the sloped edge  120  contacts and slides upwardly along the second transition portion  96  until the guide-contact edge  122  contacts the third stepped portion  92  to place the movable portion  56   a  in the third position  134 . From the third position  134 , as the cam  84  is rotated in the clockwise direction, the sloped edge  118  contacts and slides downwardly along the first transition portion  94  until the guide-contact edge  122  contacts the first stepped portion  88  to place the movable portion  56   a  back in the first position  130 . Of course, the cam  84  can be rotated in a counterclockwise direction  141  such that the sloped edge  118  slides upwardly along the first and second transition portions  94 ,  96 , respectively, and downwardly along the third transition portion  98  to move the movable portion  56   a  between the first, second, and third positions  130 ,  132 ,  134 . 
     Rotation of the cam  84  with respect to the cam guide  82  can be facilitated by an adjustment tool (not shown). In one implementation, the adjustment tool can be inserted through the aperture  102  in the base wall, along the cut-out  100  in the cam guide  82 , through the aperture  124 , and matingly engage the walls defining the aperture  124 . Rotation of the adjustment tool correspondingly rotates the cam  84 . In this implementation, the frame has an aperture (not shown) aligned with the aperture  102  such that the adjustment tool can be inserted through the aperture  102  from a front of the eyeglass  10 . In this manner, a wearer can adjust the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  while wearing eyeglass  10 . Alternatively, in another implementation, the adjustment tool can be inserted into the aperture  124  in the cam  84  via the aperture  76  of the movable portion  56   a  from a rear of the eyeglass  10 . In such an implementation, the wearer preferably would first remove the eyeglass  10  before adjusting the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b . Therefore, according to some embodiments, the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  can be adjustable via a front or rear of the eyeglass  10 . 
     Although the illustrated embodiments describe movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  that are adjustable into one of three positions, in other embodiments, the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  can be adjustable into fewer or more than three positions. For example, the cam guide  82  can have any number of stepped portions corresponding to any number of movable portion positions to provide increased adjustability and customization of the eyecup side assemblies  50 ,  52  of the eyeglass  10 . Of course, the number of positions that can be accommodated is limited in a practical sense by the size of the cam guide  82  and cam  84 . 
     Additionally, although in the illustrated embodiments, each side assembly  50 ,  52  includes a single cam assembly  80 , in other embodiments, each side assembly can include more than one cam assembly to provide even more customization and adjustability of the fit of the eyeglass  10 . For example, in certain implementations, one or both of the side assemblies  50 ,  52  can include two cam assemblies  80 . One cam assembly  80  can be positioned proximate a top of the side assembly and the other cam assembly can be positioned proximate a bottom of the side assembly. If desired, the top and bottom cam assemblies can be adjusted equally such that the both a top and bottom portion of the respective movable portion can be positioned an equal distance away from the respective fixed portion. Alternatively, based on a wearer&#39;s preference or the particular features of a wearer&#39;s face, the top or bottom assembly can be adjusted differently such that either the top portion is at a greater or lesser distance away from the respective fixed portion than the bottom portion and vice versa. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, in any of the three positions of the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b , the ridge  62   a  sealingly engages the recess  72  to provide a seal between the movable portion  56   a  and the fixed portion  48  that restricts contaminants from entering the eye. As used herein, a seal or sealing engagement between two objects is used to define the interaction between the two objects that prevents, restricts, resists or hinders foreign contaminants from passing between the objects. A seal as used herein can be, but is not necessarily, a hermetic seal. In other words, a seal can be an at least partially permeable seal as long as it provides at least some restriction to foreign contaminants. 
     For example, when the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are in the first position  130 , the recesses  72  and the ridges  62   a ,  62   b  are nestably engaged, as shown in  FIG. 2 , to seal the junction between the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  and the fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b . In the second position  132 , the ridges  62   a ,  62   b  remains at least partially within, e.g., engaged with, the recesses  72  to maintain the seal between the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  and the fixed portions  54   a ,  54   b . Further, as shown in  FIG. 1  in relation to the movable portion  56   b  and fixed portion  54   b , in the third position  134 , the ridge  62   b  remains at least partially within the recess  72  to maintain the seal. 
     In certain embodiments, a space is defined between the recesses and ridges in each of the three positions to facilitate venting. More specifically, the recesses and ridges can be sealingly engaged to restrict contaminants from entering, and at the same time, allow air to vent through the spaces between the recesses and ridges. Proper venting is important to prevent moisture build-upon the interior of the lens, which can impede vision. 
     According to one embodiment, in use, a wearer can place the eyeglass  10  on his face and determine if the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are in contact with, e.g., pressed against, the wearer&#39;s face proximate his left and right eye sockets, respectively, and if such contact is comfortable. If so, the eyecup  40  is properly adjusted to resist contaminants from entering the eye in a manner that comfortable to the wearer. If one or both of the movable portions  56   a ,  56   b  are pressed too tightly against the wearer&#39;s face or if the movable portions are not properly in contact with the wearer&#39;s face, the wearer can insert an adjustment tool into the aperture  124  associated with improperly fitting movable portion via either the front of the eyeglass  10  (e.g., while wearing the eyeglass) or the back of the eyeglass (e.g., after removing the eyeglass) and adjust the position of the movable portions to provide a looser or tighter fit. For example, if the movable portion  56   a  is too tight against the wearer&#39;s face, the adjustment tool can be rotated to rotate the cam  84  relative to the cam guide  82  and move the distal end portion  66   a  from the first position  130  to either the second or third positions  132 ,  134 , or from the second position  132  to the third position  134 , to loosen the fit with the wearer&#39;s face. Alternatively, if the movable portion  56   a  is not properly in contact with the wearer&#39;s face, the adjustment tool can be rotated to move the distal end portion  66   a  from the second position  132  to the first position  130 , or from the third position  134  to either the first or second positions  130 ,  132 , to tighten the fit. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , another embodiment of an eyecup  240  coupled to an eyeglass frame  212  is shown. Except as otherwise noted, the eyecup  240  includes the same general features as the eyecup  40  described above. For example, the eyecup  240  includes a right side assembly  252  and a left side assembly (not shown) substantially mirroring the right side assembly. The right side assembly  252  includes a fixed portion  254  and a movable portion  256  made of a flexible material and movably coupled to the fixed portion in the same, or a similar, manner as described above in relation to the eyecup  40 . Similar to the eyecup  40 , the eyecup  240  is adjustable for providing a custom fit around the eyes and protecting the eyes from undesirable contaminants. However, the mechanism and method for adjusting the eyecup  240  and protecting the eyes has various differences in comparison to the eyecup  40 . 
     A distal end portion  266  of the movable portion  256  is adjustably positioned relative to the fixed portion  254  via a detent mechanism  258 . The detent mechanism  258  includes a positioner portion  270  coupled to the fixed portion  254  and a catching portion  272  coupled to the movable portion  256 . 
     The positioner portion  270  extends generally transversely from the fixed portion  254  towards the movable portion  256  and includes a recess  274 , e.g., a channel, receptacle, pocket, slot, etc., sized to receive the catching portion  272 . The positioner portion  270  includes two or more linearly-aligned apertures  276  having an open end accessible from the recess  274 . In the illustrated embodiments, the apertures  276  are through-apertures extending from an outer surface of the positioner portion to the recess  274 . As shown, the apertures  276  are formed in an outer surface of the positioner portion  270  that faces away from the head of a user wearing the frame  212 . In other implementations, the apertures  276  are formed in another surface, such as an inner surface of the positioner portion  270  that faces toward the head of a user wearing the frame  212 . Although the apertures  276  are shown as through-apertures having two open ends, in some embodiments, the apertures  276  have one open end and one closed end, such as, e.g., a recess, pocket, depression, etc. 
     The catching portion  272  includes a base  280  extending generally transversely from the movable portion  256  towards the fixed portion  262 . Attached to the base  280  is a biasing element  282 , such as a leaf spring or other resiliently flexible member. The biasing element  282  includes a fixed end  284  attached to the base  280  and a free end  286  resiliently movable inwardly and outwardly relative to the base (see  FIG. 8 ). The fixed end  284  is attached to the base  280  via any of various conventional coupling techniques, such as, for example, heat staking, bonding, adhering, mechanical fastening, etc. The biasing element  282  further includes a catch  288 , such as a bump, nubbin, protrusion, or other user-engageable member, positioned proximate the free end  286 . The catch  288  is sized and shaped to be received within the respective apertures  276 . For example, in some implementations, the apertures  276  are circular and the catch  288  is a generally cylindrical protrusion having a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the circular shape of the apertures and a generally domed end. However, in other implementations, the apertures  276  and catch  288  can have any of various shapes other than circular or round, such as, for example, square, triangular, ovular, rectangular, conical, etc. 
     The base  280  is positionable and movable within the recess  274 . The biasing element  282  is biased in a first aperture-engaging position such that when the biasing element is aligned with one of the apertures  276 , the catch  288  automatically enters and engages that aperture. With the catch  288  engaged with an aperture  276 , the distal end portion  266  of the movable portion  256  is in a predetermined position relative to the fixed member  262 . For example, as shown, the positioner portion  270  includes three apertures  276 , e.g., a first aperture  276   a , second aperture  276   b , and third aperture  276   c , each corresponding to a predetermined respective position of the movable portion  256  relative to the fixed portion  262 . More specifically, with the catch  288  engaged with the first aperture  276   a , the distal end portion  266  is retained in a first, or relatively closed, position in which the distal end portion is positioned relatively close to the fixed portion  262 . With the catch  288  engaged with the second aperture  276   b , the distal end portion  266  is retained in a second, or intermediate, position in which the distal end portion is positioned further away from the fixed portion  262  than when in the first position. Finally, as shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , with the catch  288  engaged with the third aperture  276   c , the distal end portion  266  is retained in a third, or relatively open, position in which the distal end portion is positioned even further away from the fixed portion  262  than when in the second position. 
     Although the illustrated embodiments show the positioner portion  270  coupled to the fixed portion  254  and the catching portion  272  coupled to the movable portion  256 , the configuration can be reversed and still achieve the advantages and features of the eyecup  240 . For example, the positioner portion  270  can be coupled to the movable portion  256  and the catching portion  272  can be coupled to the fixed portion  254 . 
     As described above in relation to the eyecup  40 , the position of the movable portion  256  relative to the fixed portion  254  corresponds to the position of the movable portion relative to the face of a user wearing the frame  12 . Based on various factors, such as, for example, environmental conditions, general comfort level, new user, etc., a user may desire to adjust the position of the movable portion  256  relative to his or her face. Accordingly, adjustment of the movable portion  256  is accomplished by first urging the catch  288  out of engagement with a first one of the apertures  276  and then moving the movable portion  256  toward or away from the fixed portion  254  until the catch  288  is aligned with the aperture  276  corresponding to the desired position of the distal end portion  266 . The bias of the biasing element  282  urges the catch  288  into the aperture  276 , such as in a snap-fit manner. The catch  288  can be urged out of engagement with an aperture  276  by applying a pressure on the catch  288  that is sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the biasing element  282 . In certain implementations, pressure on the catch  288  can be applied using a readily available tool, such as the tip of a pen, pencil, or pin, finger, or other conventional or customizable instrument having a small contact area. 
     For convenience, in certain instances, the movable portion  256  can be adjustable in situ, i.e., while the frame  212  is being worn by the user. Also, although the illustrated eyecup  240  has three apertures  276  corresponding to three movable portion positions, in other embodiments, the eyecup can have any number of apertures  276  for increased adjustability. 
     The eyecup  240  also includes an eye protector  290  positioned intermediate the fixed portion  254  and movable portion  256 . The eye protector  290  limits entry of contaminants through the space between the fixed and movable portions  254 ,  256 . As shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the eye protector  290  desirably is made of a flexible material secured to the stepped portions  263 ,  265  of the fixed and movable portions  254 ,  256 , respectively (see  FIG. 8 ). As the distal end portion  266  is moved toward or away from the fixed portion  254  during adjustment of the eyecup  240 , the eye protector  290  contracts, expands, folds, unfolds, or otherwise changes in form, to provide eye protection in any of the various eyecup positions. As shown, the eye protector  290  includes a creased portion  292  that facilitates folding of the eye protector as the movable portion  256  moves toward the fixed portion  254  and unfolding of the eye protector as the movable portion moves away from the fixed portion. In certain implementations, the eye protector  290  is made from rubber or other flexible polymeric material. The eye protector  290  can be secured to the stepped portions  263 ,  265  via an adhesive, or other coupling technique, such as bonding, fastening, and/or molding. 
     Although not shown in the embodiments of  FIGS. 6-8 , in some embodiments, instead of, or in addition to, a flexible material, the eye protector  290  can include a ridge, such as the ridge  62   a  of the eyecup  40 , formed in one of the movable or fixed portions, and a recess, such as the recess  72  of the eyecup  40 , formed in the other portion. Engagement between the ridge and recess can form a seal to restrict contaminants from entering the eye via the space between the fixed and movable portions  254 ,  252  in the same or similar manner as a flexible material. 
     Although not shown, in some embodiments, a resiliently conformable member can be attached to the eyecups  40 ,  240  to provide a more effective seal between the eyecup and the wearer&#39;s face and to promote a comfortable fit. In certain implementations, the resilient member is made of a foam cushion, while in other implementations, the resilient member is made of an elastomeric material, such as rubber or silicone. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , another embodiment of an eyecup  340  coupled to an eyeglass frame  312  is shown. Except as otherwise noted, the eyecup  340  includes the same general features as the eyecup  40  described above. For example, the eyecup  340  includes a right side assembly  352  ( FIG. 10 ) and a left side assembly  353  substantially mirroring the right side assembly  352 . The right side assembly  352  includes a fixed portion  354  and a movable portion  356  made of a flexible material and movably coupled to the fixed portion in the same, or a similar, manner as described above in relation to the eyecup  40 . Similar to the eyecup  40 , the eyecup  340  is adjustable for providing a custom fit around the eyes and protecting the eyes from undesirable contaminants. However, the mechanism and method for adjusting the eyecup  240  and protecting the eyes has various differences in comparison to the eyecup  40 . 
     A distal end portion  366  of the movable portion  356  is adjustably positioned relative to the fixed portion  354  via a resilient clip  358 . The resilient clip  358  includes a set of teeth  370  coupled to the movable portion  356  and a flange  372  coupled to the fixed portion  354 . 
     Although the illustrated embodiments show the resilient clip  358  with the teeth  370  coupled to the fixed portion  354  and the flange  372  coupled to the movable portion  356 , the configuration can be reversed and still achieve the advantages and features of the eyecup  340 . For example, the resilient clip  358  with the teeth  370  can be coupled to the movable portion  356  and the flange  372  can be coupled to the fixed portion  354 . 
     As described above in relation to the eyecup  40 , the position of the movable portion  356  relative to the fixed portion  354  corresponds to the position of the movable portion relative to the face of a user wearing the frame  12 . Based on various factors, such as, for example, environmental conditions, general comfort level, new user, etc., a user may desire to adjust the position of the movable portion  356  relative to his or her face. 
     The eyecup  340  also includes an eye protector  390  positioned intermediate the fixed portion  354  and movable portion  356 . The eye protector  390  limits entry of contaminants through the space between the fixed and movable portions  354 ,  356 . As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the eye protector  390  desirably is made of a flexible material secured to the stepped portions  363 ,  365  of the fixed and movable portions  354 ,  356 , respectively (see  FIG. 10 ). As the distal end portion  366  is moved toward or away from the fixed portion  354  during adjustment of the eyecup  340 , the eye protector  390  contracts, expands, folds, unfolds, or otherwise changes in form, to provide eye protection in any of the various eyecup positions. In certain implementations, the eye protector  390  is made from rubber or other flexible polymeric material. The eye protector  390  can be secured to the stepped portions  363 ,  365  via an adhesive, or other coupling technique, such as bonding, fastening, and/or molding. 
     Whereas the foregoing description is in the context of representative embodiments, the invention is not limited to those embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to encompass all modifications, alternatives, and equivalents as may be included in the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.