Patent Document

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present invention is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/400,309, filed Feb. 20, 2012, which claims priority to patent application Nos. 61/445,031 filed Feb. 21, 2011; and 61/480,004 filed Apr. 28, 2011. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to an apparatus for use on headgear, such as helmets and hard hats. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Certain headgear, such as various sports helmets, typically do not include a brim or visor, and, if they do, they are relatively small visors extending from the front of the helmet only. Such helmets rarely include visors extending around the entire circumference of the helmet. Hard hats may include a very small, inflexible full brim but this brim does not provide wide sun protection. 
     Outdoor sports, such as bicycling, skateboarding, snow skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, rock climbing, equestrian, and paddling—are often done in areas without trees or other fixtures to provide shade. Participants encounter significant sun exposure while performing their respective activities even when using conventional helmets. Likewise, workers using hard hats often perform their duties in sunny locations and encounter significant sun exposure. 
     Sport helmets generally consist of a hard material and/or shock-absorbing material, such as foam, to protect the head from injury. Some may have a built-in brim; however they do not offer full, flexible brims around the entire helmet for sun protection. Some helmets offer no visor or brim at all. These brim-less or bill-less helmets are particularly problematic for fitting with a brim since no easy and secure attachment means for the visor, namely the short bill protrusion on billed helmets, exists. Furthermore, elongated bicycle helmets taper rapidly and are very broad at the front, making it difficult to attach and securely hold an aftermarket brim or visor onto the helmet with current technology. As such, protection of one&#39;s head from injury can come at the expense of sun protection and lack of shade. Additionally, helmets without any visor expose the wearer&#39;s eyes to glare and can make it difficult to see. Lack of a visor or brim on helmets or hard hats contributes to significant discomfort during inclement weather. Without a visor or brim on the helmet, rain and snow can easily reach the wearer&#39;s eyes, sunglasses, or prescription lenses, impairing vision. 
     One alternative option is to wear a baseball hat under the helmet or hard hat to provide shade while performing the outdoor activity. However, this practice does not allow for ventilation or adjustability of the brim. Additionally, full brim coverage is not provided. Such practice is cumbersome, often results in an improper fit of the helmet, and allows sweat and moisture to contact the skin. 
     A number of shades, caps, and helmets seek to provide sun protection including, U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,030,173; 5,519,895; 5,727,250; 6,260,204; 6,374,423; 6,889,391; 6,966,074; and 7,406,721; and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2002/004946 and 2004/0010832, 2011/0167544 each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. All patents and patent applications and non-patent publications recited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     A brim apparatus for operating with sports headgear is often subjected to strong forces. A snowboarder or cyclist, for example, travels at great speeds and consequently subjects his helmet and brim to large winds which urge the brim to deflect or worse, flip up, thwarting a purpose of the brim, namely to block the sun. 
     Accordingly, there is a need for an apparatus that addresses the above mentioned challenges and that can be attached to a helmet and provide the wearer with shade and protection from the sun, thereby reducing the risk of skin cancer. There is a need for an apparatus that can attach to, and operate with, headgear to provide the wearer with shade and protection from the sun despite the speed and conditions arising from the environment or sport. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     One embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus that creates shade for the wearer when using a variety of headgear. 
     One embodiment of the invention comprises a portable brim that can be attached to, and operate with, headgear, including, but not limited to helmets, such as bicycle, skateboarding, snow sport, mountain/rock climbing, equestrian, and paddlesport helmets. 
     Another embodiment of the invention comprises a portable brim that can attach to, and operate with, headgear including but not limited to hard hats used in construction, utility maintenance, material moving, dock loading, and airport baggage handling, to give the wearer shade and protection from the sun. Another embodiment of the invention is a brim or visor that can be easily attached to and removed from the helmet or hard hat, without any modification to the helmet or hard hat itself. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is an apparatus for attaching to a sports helmet including a center section having an adjustable size for fitting about a circumference of the sports helmet and a visor radially extending from the center section. In one embodiment the center section is adapted to form a stop surface opposing an upper surface of the visor when the apparatus is affixed to the sports helmet such that the stop surface prohibits the visor from upward rotation. 
     In another embodiment of the invention a brim apparatus for attaching to headgear comprises a center section having a size for detachably fitting about a circumference of the headgear and a visor radially extending from the center section. The center section may have an adjustable or fixed size. The headgear type may vary and in one embodiment is a hard hat. In another embodiment the brim apparatus is configured for use with headgear such as a sports helmet including without limitation bill-less or blunt sports helmets. Bill-less helmets also include helmets in which the bill has been removed or detached. 
     In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a crown or cover detachably connected to the top of the center section so as to cover the top of the headgear or the wearer&#39;s head when the headgear is not worn. In this capacity, the apparatus serves dual purposes as a brim for a helmet and as a hat for the wearer&#39;s head. 
     In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a center section, a visor extending radially therefrom, and at least one tilt angle adjustment feature for adjusting the angle that the visor makes with the center section. In one embodiment, the tilt angle adjustment feature is situated to adjust the frontal region of the visor. However, tilt angle adjustment features may be disposed on the side, rear, and other locations of the center section to provide a tilt to the visor relative to the center section. Examples of tilt angle adjustment features include tethers, straps, rings, loop and hook fasteners, clips, Velcro straps, etc. In one embodiment, the tilt angle adjustment feature comprises a ring and Velcro. 
     In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a visor having lateral regions which are adjustable to curve upwards. In one embodiment, the lateral regions of the visor are curved upwards so as to resemble a cowboy hat. 
     In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a center section and a visor radially extending therefrom, wherein the center section is longer in the rear than in the front. The center section is adapted to snugly fit on the wearer&#39;s head. A crown may be secured to the top of the center section. In one embodiment, the crown is detachable. 
     In another embodiment the apparatus comprises a center section and a visor extending radially therefrom, and wherein the center section is adapted to snugly fit to headwear, such as, without limitation, baseball hats. 
     The description, objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description to follow, together with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a top view of a brim apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a bottom view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a partial perspective view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a partial perspective environmental view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is another perspective environmental view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is another perspective environmental view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of a brim apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective environmental view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a top view of a brim apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a bottom view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective environmental view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a top view of a brim apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 14  is a bottom view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a partial perspective view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective environmental view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a partial perspective environmental view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a top view of a brim apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 19  is a bottom view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a partial perspective view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective environmental view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a bottom view of a brim apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 23  is a top view of a partial brim apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 24  is a bottom view of a the partial brim apparatus of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective environmental view of the partial brim apparatus of  FIG. 23 . 
         FIG. 26  is a side view of a brim apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the invention engaged to a bike helmet; 
         FIG. 27  is a top view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 26 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a top view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 26  shown in an undeployed configuration; 
         FIG. 29  is a front view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 26 ; 
         FIG. 30  is a side view of a brim apparatus including a crown member according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 31  is a bottom view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 30  shown without the crown member; 
         FIG. 32  is a top view of the crown member of  FIG. 30  shown in an undeployed configuration; 
         FIG. 33  is a side view of a brim apparatus secured to a hard hat according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 34  is a top view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 33 ; 
         FIG. 35  is a bottom view of the brim apparatus of  FIG. 33 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before the present invention is described in detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular variations set forth herein as various changes or modifications may be made to the invention described and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other several embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s) to the objective(s), spirit or scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the claims made herein. 
     Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recited events which is logically possible, as well as the recited order of events. Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. 
     Reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there are plural of the same items present. More specifically, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “said” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation. It is also to be appreciated that unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. 
     A brim apparatus for use on a bicycle helmet according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 , and shown generally at reference numeral  10 . As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the apparatus  10  comprises a substantially oval flexible center section  12  defining an opening  14  sized to fit over a bicycle helmet  40 . The opening is shown having a substantially oval shape. However, the shape may vary and may take other shapes such as a circular or another shape to fit a helmet. 
     The brim apparatus is shown having a visor  16 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-6 , the visor has a substantially oval shape. The visor  16  extends outwardly from the center section  12 . The visor is shown spanning the entire circumference of the helmet, namely, 360 degrees, however, the arc angle may vary. In another embodiment, described herein, the visor span angle ranges from 0 to 180 degrees, and more preferably from 45 to 135 degrees, and more preferably from 80 to 100 degrees. The visor may radiate outwardly and may be directed at an angle from the center section slightly downwardly, or upwardly. In one embodiment, as will be discussed herein, the visor tilt angle may be adjusted to suit a user or increase his visibility. 
     The apparatus  10  can be made of cotton, or other suitable material such as nylon, polyester, cotton/polyester blends or water resistant material such as GORE-TEX or other membrane or treated fabric. The apparatus  10  is preferably made of a washable material, so that it can be washed after use. The visor  16  can be made of a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material. For example, a fabric may cover or interface with one or more ribs or stiffeners, forming the desired shape such as visor shape  16 . However, other shapes may be formed. Examples of stiffeners include without limitation tensioned rod, flexible plastic tubing, and spring steel. 
     The center section  12  is preferably elastic and has a section of anti-slip material  18  attached to the center section  12  for facilitating frictional engagement with helmet  40 . The center section  12  can include means for adjusting the diameter of the opening  14  to accommodate helmets of varying size. As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the adjustment means can comprise two straps  21 ,  22  attached to the center section  12 . One strap  21  has hook fasteners, while the other strap  22  has loop fasteners (or vice versa) for complementary engagement. As such, the diameter of the center section opening  14  can be adjusted by the user by varying the point of connection of the two straps  21 ,  22 . Alternatively, the adjustment means can be a sliding strap or elastic. 
     The center section  12  has a front portion  12 A and a rear portion  12 B. Preferably, the rear portion  12 B is greater in length than the front portion  12 A to account for the relatively high positioning of bicycle helmets. The apparatus  10  can include adjustment means for adjusting the length that the rear portion  12 B of the center section  12  drops down from the helmet  40 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , the adjustment means can comprise a strap  23  attached to the rear portion  12 B of the center section  12 , and a strap  24  attached to the top surface of the visor  16  proximate the inner edge of the visor  16 . The strap  23  on the center section  12  has loop fasteners, and the strap  24  attached to the visor  16  has hook fasteners for complementary engagement. Alternatively, the strap  23  on the center section  12  can have hook fasteners, and the strap  24  attached to the visor  16  can have loop fasteners. The distance that the rear portion  12 B of the center section  12  extends down from the helmet can be adjusted by the user varying the point of connection of the two straps  23 ,  24 . Alternatively the straps  23 ,  24  can be attached to the under surface of the center section  12  and visor  16 , respectively. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a stiffening member, such as a plastic rod  26 , is positioned at the outer edge of the visor  16  to help retain the shape of the visor  16 . Alternatively, the stiffening member can be a square or flat wire or plastic rod, which would allow the apparatus  10  to be folded up similar to a windshield shade or band saw blade. With such a rigid and spring-loaded stiffening member  26 , the visor  16  may consist of stretched fabric, and a supporting material, such as a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material, need not be used. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , three elastic straps  30 ,  32 ,  34  are attached at the point of connection of the center section  12  and the inner edge of the visor  16 . The male portion of a snap fastener  36  is attached to the end of each strap  30 ,  32 ,  34 , and the complementary female portion of the snap fastener  38  is attached to the under surface of the visor  16 . Alternatively, the female portion of the snap fastener can be attached to the straps  30 ,  32 ,  34 , and the male portion can be attached to the visor  16 . Also, other attachment means could be used, such as hook and loop fasteners or sliding straps. 
     In a preferred method of using the apparatus  10 , the apparatus  10  is positioned over the bicycle helmet  40 , the apparatus  10  is pulled over the helmet  40 , which goes through the opening  14  of the center section  12  and engages the anti-slip section  18 , as shown in  FIG. 6 . Each of the elastic straps  30 ,  32 ,  34  is positioned through a vent opening of the helmet  40 , as shown in  FIG. 4 , and the male portions  36  of the snap fasteners on the straps  30 ,  32 ,  34 , snap into the complementary female portions  38  positioned on the under surface of the visor  16 , as shown in  FIG. 5 . The combination of the pro-friction/anti-slip material and the straps  30 ,  32 ,  34  securely retains the brim  10  on the helmet  40 . The elastic straps,  30 ,  32 ,  34 , can be tucked under the interior padding of the helmet for comfort, as shown in  FIG. 5 . It should be noted that on rounded helmets not having the classic oblong shape, use of the straps  30 ,  32 ,  34  may not be necessary to secure the brim  10 . 
     The apparatus  10  fits snugly around the helmet  40 , and does not impede any of the important functions of the helmet  40 . Protective features of the helmet are preserved. In this embodiment of the present invention, there is complete encompassing of the helmet circumference, providing shade around its entirety. The brim apparatus  10  allows vents in the helmet  40  to be exposed and still used, and allows for the cooling features of the helmet to be preserved. 
     A brim apparatus for use on a snow sports helmet according to another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 7-9 , and shown generally at reference numeral  50 . Examples of snow sports helmets include helmets used for skiing, snowboarding and other snow related activities. The apparatus  50  can be made of a fast drying material such as nylon, or other suitable material, including a water-resistant material such as GORE-TEX, or a material such as cotton or a cotton/polyester or polyester treated with a water resistant coating. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the apparatus  50  comprises a substantially oval flexible center section  52  defining an opening  54  sized to fit over a snow sports helmet  70 , and a substantially oval visor  56  extending outwardly from the center section  52 . The visor  56  is preferably made of closed-cell foam or other suitable material for water resistance. The underside of the visor  56  is preferably black to minimize the sunlight reflected from snow on the ground reflecting off the apparatus  50  and obstructing the user&#39;s view. 
     The center section  52  is preferably elastic and has a section of anti-slip material  58  for facilitating frictional engagement with the helmet  70 . The anti-slip material is preferably compressible, or compressible in addition to being tacky. Exemplary materials for the anti-slip material include rubber, rubberized fabrics, foams, coated foams, combinations thereof, or another material suitable for facilitating frictional engagement with the headgear. 
     The center section  52  can include means for adjusting the diameter of the opening  54  to accommodate helmets of varying size. As shown in  FIG. 8 , the adjustment means can comprise two straps  61 ,  62  attached to the center section  52 . One strap  61  can have hook fasteners, while the other strap  62  can have loop fasteners (or vice versa) for complementary engagement. As such, the diameter of the center section opening  54  can be adjusted by the user by varying the point of connection of the two straps  61 ,  62 . Alternatively, the adjustment means can be a sliding strap or elastic. 
     The visor  56  has a front portion  56 A and a rear portion  56 B. Preferably, the rear portion  56 B is longer than the front portion  56 A to provide better coverage to the back of the neck of the user. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , a stiffening member, such as a plastic rod  66 , is positioned at the outer edge of the visor  56  to help retain the shape of the visor  56 . Alternatively, the stiffening member can be a square or flat wire or plastic rod, which would allow the apparatus  10  to be folded up similar to a windshield shade or band saw blade. With such a rigid and spring-loaded stiffening member  66 , the visor  56  may consist of stretched fabric, and a supporting material, such as a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material, need not be used. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , a frontal reinforcing flap  60  can be attached at the inner edge of the underside of the front portion  56 A of the visor  56 . The front flap  60  helps prevent the apparatus  50  from coming off the helmet  70  when traveling at high speeds. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , a loop  64  can be attached at the inner edge of the underside of the rear portion  56 B of the visor  56 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the loop can receive a goggle strap  72  of the snow sport helmet  70  to help retain the apparatus on the helmet  70  at high speeds, or in the case of a crash. 
     In a preferred method of using the apparatus  50 , the apparatus  50  is positioned over the snow sports helmet  70 , with the front portion  56 A of the visor  56  above the front of the helmet  70 , and the rear portion  56 B of the visor  56  above the rear of the helmet  70 . The apparatus  50  is pulled over the helmet  70  with the helmet  70  going through the opening  54  of the center section  52  and engaging the anti-slip section. The goggle strap  72  of helmet  70  is positioned through the rear loop  64 , as shown in  FIG. 9 . 
     A brim apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 10-12 , and shown generally at reference numeral  100 . This brim apparatus  100  is particularly suited for use with mountain/rock climbing helmets and/or equestrian helmets. The apparatus  100  can be made of cotton, or other suitable material such as nylon, polyester, cotton/polyester blends, GORE-TEX, treated or water resistant material, stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic, or other suitable material. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the apparatus  100  comprises a substantially oval flexible center section  102  defining a substantially oval opening  104  sized to fit over a mountain/rock climbing or equestrian helmet  140 , and a substantially oval, flexible visor  106  extending outwardly from the center section  102 . 
     The center section  102  shown in this embodiment is preferably elastic and has a section of anti-slip material  108  for facilitating frictional engagement with the helmet  140 . The center section  102  can include means for adjusting the diameter of the opening  104  to accommodate helmets of varying size. As shown in  FIG. 11 , the adjustment means can comprise two straps  121 ,  122  attached to the center section  102 . One strap  121  can have hook fasteners, while the other strap  122  can have loop fasteners (or vice versa) for complementary engagement. As such, the diameter of the center section opening  104  can be adjusted by the user by varying the point of connection of the two straps  121 ,  122 . Alternatively, the adjustment means can be a sliding strap or elastic. 
     The visor  106  shown in this embodiment has a front portion  106 A and a rear portion  106 B. In an alternative embodiment designed specifically for use on equestrian helmets that already have visors as part of the helmet, the front portion  106 A of the visor can be sewn so as to allow an integrated visor that is typically present on equestrian helmets to protrude there through. As shown in  FIG. 11 , a loop  132  can be attached at the inner edge of the underside of the rear portion  106 B of the visor  106 . 
     In a preferred method of using the apparatus  100 , the apparatus  100  is positioned over the helmet  140 , with the front portion  106 A of the visor  106  above the front of the helmet  140 , and the rear portion  106 B of the visor  106  above the rear of the helmet  140 . The apparatus  100  is pulled over the helmet  140 , with the helmet  140  going through the opening  104  of the center section  102  and engaging the anti-slip section  108 , as shown in  FIG. 12 . A hook and loop or sliding strap leash can be packaged with the apparatus  100 , and positioned through the rear loop  132  and attached to the existing straps on the helmet  140 . Also, a carabiner can be positioned through the rear loop  132 , and used for carrying the apparatus  100 . The brim apparatus  100  does not impede movement, and allows users to get close to rocks and other objects while climbing, and preserves proper helmet fit and function. 
     A brim apparatus for use on a multitude of different helmets is depicted in  FIGS. 13-17  and shown generally at reference numeral  160 . This embodiment could be used with a variety of sports helmets including, but not limited to, snow sports, rock climbing/mountaineering, skating, paddling, equestrian, and rounded bicycle helmets. This embodiment may also be used with various hard hats. As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the apparatus  160  in the figure has a substantially oval flexible center section  162  defining an opening  164  sized to fit over the headgear  198 , and a substantially oval visor  166  extending outwardly from the center section  162 . The apparatus  160  can be made of cotton, or other suitable material such as nylon, polyester, cotton/polyester blends or water resistant material such as GORE-TEX or treated fabric. The visor  166  can be made of a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material. 
     The visor  166  has a front portion  166 A and a rear portion  166 B. Preferably, but not necessarily, the rear portion  166 B is longer than the front portion  166 A to provide better coverage to the back of the neck of the user. 
     The center section  162  preferably has an elastic portion  167  and has a section of anti-slip material  168  attached to the center section  162  for facilitating frictional engagement with helmet  198 . The center section  162  can include a feature or means for adjusting the diameter of the opening  164  to accommodate helmets of varying size. As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the size adjustment feature can comprise a strap  171  and ladder lock buckle  172  attached to the center section  162 . The strap  171  slides through a guide tube  173  that is attached near the top of the rear center section  162 . As such, the diameter of the center section opening  164  can be adjusted by the user by varying the length of the strap  171  at the ladder lock buckle  172 . One skilled in the art can appreciate that other means than a ladder lock buckle  162 , such as a complementary engaging sliding buckle, hook and loop fastener strap, ring with an associated strap with hooks or buckles, or other suitable material, can be used for adjustment of strap length. Furthermore, a guide tube  173  is not necessarily required and other alternatives such as a channel in the center section  162 , a loop, or no guide if the span is small, could be used. A section of anti-slip material  174  may also be present on the guide tube  173 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , a stiffening member, such as a plastic rod, is positioned at the outer edge of the visor  176  to help retain the shape of the visor  166 . Alternatively, the stiffening member can be a square or flat wire or plastic rod, which would allow the apparatus  160  to be folded up similar to a windshield shade or band saw blade. With such a rigid and spring-loaded stiffening member, the visor  166  may consist of stretched fabric, and a supporting material, such as a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material, need not be used. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the visor  166  may have vents  180 ,  181  that allow air to flow through them when traveling at high speed. Any number of vents  180 ,  181  may be used and positioned at any location on the visor  166 . Vents  180 ,  181  may be passive as holes or may be active and open as air flows there through. Additionally, the visor  166  may be made of a mesh material without a covering and allow air to flow there through. The vents may have a wide variety of shapes. In one embodiment a vent is shaped as one of the following including an oval, circle, square, or slit. The vent reduces lift and pressure on the visor when moving at speed or in windy conditions. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the visor may have an accessory attachment  182  positioned at the edge of the visor  166  to allow for complementary engagement of accessories, such as fabric curtains, mosquito netting, or other suitable accessories. The accessory attachment  182  may consist of complementary engaging zippers, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, or other suitable materials to facilitate attachment of accessories with the complementary engaging zippers, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, or other suitable materials to the apparatus  160 . 
     The brim apparatus shown in  FIG. 13  also includes a pocket  184 . The pocket  184  may serve to hold and conceal a foldable cover that can be unfolded from the pocket and used to cover the helmet  198 . Such a cover may be useful in the case of inclement weather. 
       FIG. 14  depicts a reinforcement piece  185  at the rear of the center section  162 . This reinforcement piece prevents the center section  162  from flopping as the user experiences high winds or goes over uneven terrain. 
     As mentioned previously, some helmets and hard hats have a visor that is pre-integrated or molded into the headgear itself. As shown in  FIGS. 14, 15, and 17 , the apparatus  160  can have a pocket  186  for receiving a pre-existing visor  199  that was previously integrated with the helmet. The pocket  186  may be closed around the pre-existing visor  199  using hook and loop fasteners attached to opposite sides of the inner surface of the pocket, or other suitable device, to form a clamp. The pocket therefore creates a clamp, preventing the visor from rotation and from coming off the headgear. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14 , a loop  188  can be attached at the inner edge of the underside of the rear portion  166 B of the visor  166 . As shown in  FIG. 16 , the loop  188  can receive a goggle strap of the helmet  198  or may be attached to an existing helmet strap by opening the loop and refastening it into a closed shape. This loop  188  can be used to retain the apparatus  160  on the helmet. This loop may be used to retain tools. 
       FIG. 16  shows a brim apparatus  160  positioned over a sports helmet  198 , with the front portion  166 A of the visor  166  above the front of the helmet  198 , and the rear portion  166 B of the visor  166  above the rear of the helmet  198 . The apparatus  160  is pulled over the helmet  198 , with the helmet  198  going through the opening  164  of the center section  162  and engaging the anti-slip section. When the apparatus  160  is affixed to the sports helmet, the center section  162  is adapted to form a stop surface  190 , wherein the stop surface  190  prohibits the visor  166  from upward rotation. When affixed to the helmet, the center section clamps the apparatus onto the helmet and prevents upward or downward rotation and the brim from coming off the helmet. The center section may form a shelf on which a portion of the underside of the helmet may sit. The other side of the stop surface on the center section contacts a portion of the underside of the helmet when the apparatus is affixed to the helmet. 
     The stop surface shown in  FIG. 16  arises from the design of the brim apparatus and is based on the geometry of the apparatus with respect to the headgear. As shown in  FIG. 14 , center section is shown with at least one visor spatial control member  192 ,  194  which serves to control the spacing of the visor relative to the helmet when the brim is properly attached to the helmet. In the variation of the invention shown in  FIG. 14 , visor spatial control feature includes two stitches  192 ,  194 . However, other examples of a visor spatial control feature include but are not limited to clips, staples, ties, etc. The spatial control feature may not be externally visible and can be hidden during manufacture of the apparatus. When the helmet is engaged with the brim apparatus, in this embodiment, the visor spatial control feature serves to shift rearward the visor, creating the stop surface  190 , regardless of the size of the helmet. 
     The spatial control feature may vary. As an alternative to the spatial control member  192 ,  194  shown in  FIG. 14 , the center section  162  can be shortened relative to the inner circumference of the visor  166  to preserve functionality of the stop surface  190  when the apparatus  160  is placed on a helmet. 
     The goggle strap of helmet  198  is positioned through the rear loop  188 . When the apparatus  160  is used with a helmet or hard hat that has a pre-integrated visor, the pre-integrated visor  199  is inserted into the pocket  186 , as shown in  FIG. 17 . Attachment of the apparatus  160  to the helmet  198  proceeds similarly to that shown in  FIG. 16 . 
     A brim apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 18-21 , and shown generally at reference numeral  200 . This embodiment of the invention is intended for use with bicycle helmets but could also be used with other headgear. As shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , the apparatus  200  comprises a substantially oval flexible center section  202  defining an opening  204  sized to fit over a bicycle helmet  250 , and a substantially oval visor  206  extending outwardly from the center section  202 . The apparatus  200  can be made of cotton, or other suitable material such as nylon, polyester, cotton/polyester blends or water resistant material such as GORE-TEX or treated fabric. The visor  206  can be made of a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material. 
     The visor  206  has a front portion  206 A and a rear portion  206 B. Preferably, the rear portion  206 B is longer than the front portion  206 A to provide better coverage to the back of the neck of the user. 
     The center section has a front portion  202 A and a rear portion  202 B. Preferably, the rear portion  202 B is greater in length than the front portion  202 A to account for the relatively high positioning of bicycle helmets. On other helmets, the longer rear portion  202 B helps to position the visor so that it provides better neck coverage. The center section  202  preferably has an elastic portion  207  and has a section of anti-slip material  208  attached to the center section  202  for facilitating frictional engagement with helmet  250 . The center section  202  can include various features and means for adjusting the diameter of the opening  204  to accommodate helmets of varying size. As shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , the size adjustment feature can comprise a strap  211  and ladder lock buckle  212  attached to the center section  202 . The strap  211  slides through any combination of guide straps  221 ,  223 ,  227  that are attached near the top of the rear center section  202 B to accommodate different topological features of particular bicycle helmets, as shown in  FIGS. 19 and 20 . As such, the diameter of the center section opening  204  can be adjusted by the user by varying the length of the strap  211  at the ladder lock buckle  212 . One skilled in the art can appreciate that other means than a ladder lock buckle  212 , such as a complementary engaging sliding buckle, hook and loop fastener strap, ring with an associated strap with hooks or buckles, or other suitable material, can be used for adjustment of strap length. 
     The apparatus  200  has a vertical adjustment feature  214  to adjust the vertical position of the visor  206  relative to the center section  202 . As shown in  FIG. 18 , the adjustment feature can consist of a hook and loop fastener strap  215  passed through a ring  216  that is attached near the top of the rear center section  202 B. A sliding strap or other suitable means may also be used. 
     The apparatus  200  also has a visor tilt angle adjustment feature  218  to adjust the angle at which the visor extends from the center section. As shown in  FIG. 18 , the adjustment feature can consist of a hook and loop fastener strap  219  passed through a ring  220  that is attached near the top of the front center section  202 A. A sliding strap or other suitable means may also be used. The tilt angle (β) may vary and preferably ranges from −45 degrees to 70 degrees and more preferably −15 to 45 degrees. The tilt angle (β) is illustrated in  FIG. 21  by reference symbol β. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , a stiffening member, such as a plastic rod, is positioned at the outer edge of the visor  222  to help retain the shape of the visor  206 . Alternatively, the stiffening member can be a square or flat wire or plastic rod, which would allow the apparatus  200  to be folded up similar to a windshield shade or band saw blade. With such a rigid and spring-loaded stiffening member, the visor  206  may consist of stretched fabric, and a supporting material, such as a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material, need not be used. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , the visor  206  may have vents  224 ,  225  that allow air to flow through them when traveling at high speed. Any number of vents  224 ,  225  may be used and positioned at any location on the visor  206 . Vents  224 ,  225  may be passive as holes or may be active and open as air flows there through. Additionally, the visor  206  may be made of a mesh material without a covering and allow air to flow through the visor  206 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , the visor may have an accessory attachment  228  positioned at the edge of the visor  222  to allow for complementary engagement of accessories, such as fabric curtains, mosquito netting, or other suitable accessories. The accessory attachment  228  may consist of complementary engaging zippers, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, or other suitable materials to facilitate attachment of accessories to the apparatus  200 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , a pocket  230  may conceal a foldable cover that can be unfolded from the pocket and used to cover the helmet  250 . Such a cover may be useful in the case of inclement weather. 
       FIGS. 19 and 20  depict reinforcement pieces  232 ,  233 ,  234  at the rear of the center section  202 B. This reinforcement piece prevents the center section  202  from extensively flopping as the user experiences high winds or goes over uneven terrain. 
       FIG. 21  shows a brim apparatus  200  positioned over bicycle helmet  250 , with the front portion  206 A of the visor  206  above the front of the helmet  250 , and the rear portion  206 B of the visor  206  above the rear of the helmet  250 . The apparatus  200  is pulled over the helmet  250 , with the helmet  250  going through the opening  204  of the center section  202  and engaging the anti-slip section  208 . When the apparatus  200  is affixed to the bicycle helmet, the center section  202  is adapted to form a stop surface  240 , wherein the stop surface  240  clamps the apparatus  200  to the helmet  250  and prohibits the visor  206  from upward rotation. When affixed to the helmet, the center section clamps the brim onto the helmet and prevents rotation and the brim from coming off the helmet. The center section may form a shelf on which a portion of the underside of the helmet may sit. The other side of the stop surface on the center section contacts a portion of the underside of the helmet when the apparatus is affixed to the helmet. 
       FIG. 22  shows a bottom view of another preferred embodiment of the invention. As shown in  FIG. 22 , the apparatus  260  comprises a substantially oval flexible center section  262  defining an opening  204  sized to fit over a bicycle helmet, and a substantially oval visor  266  extending outwardly from the center section  262 . The apparatus  260  can be made of cotton, or other suitable material such as nylon, polyester, cotton/polyester blends or water resistant material such as GORE-TEX or treated fabric. The visor  266  can be made of a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material. The visor has a front portion  266 A and a rear portion  266 B. 
     The apparatus  260  in this embodiment uses a harness  270  to attach to the bicycle helmet. The harness consists of sliding straps  272 ,  273  fed through guides  275 ,  276  that are attached near the top of the center section  262 . When the straps  272 ,  273  are tightened, a front cover, patch, or glove member  280  that has a longer center section  280 A than upper  280 B and lower  280 C engages the front of the bicycle helmet and a rear cup  290  engages the rear of the bicycle helmet. The rear cup  290  has a center hole  291  and is shaped so as to fit the rear end of a tapered bicycle helmet. 
     In a preferred method of using the apparatus  260 , the apparatus  260  is positioned over the bicycle helmet, with the front portion of the visor  266 A above the front of the helmet, and the rear portion  266 B of the visor  266  above the rear of the helmet. The apparatus  260  is pulled over the helmet, with the helmet going through the opening  264  of the center section  262 . The harness  270  engages with the bicycle helmet by positioning the front cover  280  at the front of the bicycle helmet and the rear cup  290  at the rear of the bicycle helmet and then tightening the sliding straps  272 ,  273 . 
     A brim apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 23-25 , and shown generally at reference numeral  300 . As shown in  FIGS. 23 and 24 , the apparatus  300  comprises a substantially oval flexible center section  302  defining an opening  304  sized to fit over a sports helmet  350 , and a visor  306  radially or outwardly extending from the center section  302  about a portion of the circumference of the center section  302 . The center section is depicted in  FIGS. 23-25  as a generally contiguous piece of fabric, however the center section may take other forms and need not be contiguous. The center section may be comprised of any suitable material and combinations of multiple types of materials, such as a portion of fabric and a portion of a strap so as to define an opening through which headgear can fit. The visor span angle α in this embodiment is about −60 to 60 degrees or spans a total arc angle of about 120 degrees. However, the span angle α may vary greatly. An exemplary non limiting range for the total arc angle is from 60 to 180 degrees, and more preferably from 90 to 150 degrees. 
     The apparatus  300  can be made of cotton, or other suitable material such as nylon, polyester, cotton/polyester blends or water resistant material such as GORE-TEX or treated fabric. The visor  306  can be made of a stiff fabric interfacing, closed cell foam, lightweight plastic or other suitable material. 
     The center section  302  preferably has an elastic portion  307  and has a section of anti-slip material  310  attached to the center section  302  for facilitating frictional engagement with helmet  350 . The center section  302  can include means for adjusting the diameter of the opening  304  to accommodate helmets of varying size. As shown in  FIGS. 23 and 24 , the size adjustment feature can comprise a strap  311  and ladder lock buckle  312  attached to the center section  302 . The strap  311  slides through a guide tube  313  that is attached near the top of the rear center section  302 . The guide tube  313  has a piece of anti-slip material  314  attached to it. As such, the diameter of the center section opening  304  can be adjusted by the user by varying the length of the strap  311  at the ladder lock buckle  312 . One skilled in the art can appreciate that other means than a ladder lock buckle  312 , such as a complementary engaging sliding buckle, hook and loop fastener strap, ring with an associated strap with hooks or buckles, or other suitable material, can be used for adjustment of strap length. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 23 and 24 , a stiffening member, such as a plastic rod, is positioned at the outer edge of the visor  316  to help retain the shape of the visor  306 . The stiffening member may extend into the center section  302  to maintain rigidity and prevent flopping. Alternatively, the stiffening member can be a square or flat wire or plastic rod or other suitable material. 
       FIG. 25  shows a brim apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention positioned over the sports helmet  350 , with the front portion of the visor  306  above the front of the helmet  350 , and the rear portion of the center section  302  above the rear of the helmet  350 . The apparatus  300  is pulled over the helmet  350 , with the helmet  350  going through the opening  304  of the center section  302  and engaging the anti-slip section  310  and pro-friction  314  material. When the apparatus  300  is affixed to the sports helmet, the center section  302  is adapted to form a stop surface  340 , wherein the stop surface  340  prohibits the visor  306  from upward rotation. The stop surface also acts to clamp the apparatus  300  to the helmet  350  and prevents it from upward or downward rotation and from coming off the helmet. The center section also may form a shelf on which a portion of the underside of the helmet may sit. The other side of the stop surface on the center section contacts a portion of the underside of the helmet when the apparatus is affixed to the helmet. 
     A brim apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 26-29 , and shown generally at reference numeral  400 . The apparatus includes a visor  404  radially extending from a center section  406 . Unlike the previous embodiments, however, the visor has a different shape. The visor  404  shown in  FIGS. 26-29  has a cowboy hat shape. Lateral portions  420  are manipulated to curve upwards using straps  430 . The degree of curvature may be adjusted by adjusting the straps  430 . Adjusting the curvature of the visor improves aerodynamic performance. 
     Although straps  430  are shown in  FIGS. 26-29  to hold lateral regions in an upward curved orientation, other means may be used to hold or adjust the curvature of the various regions of the visor. Examples include Velcro straps, snaps, eyelets, wire and plastic loops, etc. Additionally, the visor may include a preformed curvature or spring loaded orientation which biases the visor in a particular orientation and curvature. Shaped foams, internal ribs, and molded plastics or other materials may be incorporated into the visor to hold a desired shape. 
     The apparatus  400  is also shown having a visor tilt angle adjustment feature  414  to adjust the angle at which the front portion of the visor  404  extends from the center section  406 . As shown in  FIG. 27 , the adjustment feature can consist of a hook and loop fastener strap passed through a ring that is attached near the top of the front center section. A sliding strap or other suitable means may be used. The tilt angle may vary and may range as described above in connection with the other brim embodiments incorporating a tilt angle adjustment feature. 
     A brim apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 30-32 , and shown generally at reference numeral  500 . The apparatus  500  is similar to the brim apparatus described above except that it includes a detachable crown, cover or cap portion  520 . The crown  520  is shown engaged to the center section  512  via three hook  524  and loop  522  fasteners on the center section and crown respectively. However, a wide range of fasteners and materials including but not limited to zippers, snaps, and so forth may be used to engage crown with the visor. Velcro may be used to attach the cover to the center section or visor. One or more strips of Velcro may be placed around the center section. The fastener means may be contiguous or include discrete elements. 
     A brim apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 33-35 , and shown generally at reference numeral  600 . The apparatus  600  includes a visor  610  radially extending from a center section  620 . 
     Similar to the embodiments described herein, the diameter of the center section and brim may be adjusted to engage the circumference of the hardhat. In the apparatus shown in  FIGS. 33-35 , the diameter of the center section may be adjusted using a rope which extends through a channel in the center section. The rope may be tightened as desired and locked via cord lock  630 . However, the invention is not intended to be so limited. Other techniques and means may be incorporated to snugly secure the brim apparatus to the hard hat or helmet. 
     Additionally, in an alternative embodiment, the diameter of the center section is non-adjustable. The opening of the center section is pre-fit for a particular size or size range of headgear. Additionally, in embodiments, the center section may comprise a resilient or elastic portion such that the diameter of the opening may conform to the outer circumference of the headgear. The opening may be designed to be slightly undersized relative to the headgear such that when the headgear is placed within the opening of the brim apparatus, a snug fit is obtained. Additionally, combinations of the above may be incorporated into the brim apparatus. For example, an adjustable and elastic center section may be provided to suitably fit a headgear. 
       FIG. 33  also shows a clamp or stop surface  640  when the brim apparatus  600  is secured to the hard hat  612 . The stop surface serves to snugly secure the short pre-integrated bill on hard hats. The pre-integrated bill of the hard hat rests on top of the inner lip  642  of the visor  610 , creating a stop surface at the inner lip of the visor  642 . Additionally, in some embodiments, the bill does not directly contact the visor or inner lip of the visor, and rests on the center section  620  itself. For example, this can happen if the outer circumference of the hard hat is smaller than the length of the center section where it is attached to the brim. The center section is tightened over the bill and to the exterior of the hard hat, thereby clamping or holding the pre-integrated bill of the hard hat in a circumferential pocket formed between the visor  640  and the tightened center section  620 , or deform center section  620  around the bill. This serves to securely clamp or hold the brim apparatus  600  to the hard hat  612 . 
     Although the stop surface is shown positioned towards the front of the headgear, the stop surface may be formed at other locations including lateral positions, rearward locations, and other locations along the circumference of the headgear. The stop or clamping surface serves to prevent upward rotation of the visor and to snugly hold the center section of the brim apparatus to various helmets, hardhats and other headgear. The center section may form a shelf on which a portion of the underside of the helmet may sit. The other side of the stop surface on the center section contacts a portion of the underside of the helmet when the apparatus is affixed to the helmet. 
     Additionally, although a rope and cord lock  630  is shown to secure the center section to the hard hat (and to form the stop surface), other mechanisms may be incorporated into the brim apparatus to secure the center section to the hard hat and to form the stop surface. The invention is intended only to be limited as recited in the appended claims. All the features of the preferred embodiments described above are interchangeable on the various embodiments except where such modification would render the invention inoperable. Also, it should be noted that while the preferred embodiments disclosed above are described as being used with bicycle, skateboard, snow sport, paddling, mountain/rock climbing and equestrian helmets, the invention is not so limited, and can be used in conjunction with a variety of headgear, including hard hats used in construction, dock loading, and airport baggage handling. 
     It should also be noted that any of the preferred embodiments may be packaged with a sports helmet to form a sports helmet system. In one embodiment a system includes a sports helmet such as, e.g., a bike helmet model Venture, manufactured by Easton Bell Sports, Inc. (Van Nuys, Calif., USA), and a brim as described herein. A system for snowboarding may include a helmet, brim, and goggles. Helmet systems may also include covers, nets, and or clips. 
     A brim apparatus for use on headgear and a method of using same are described above. Various changes can be made to the invention without departing from its scope. The above description of the preferred embodiments and best mode of the invention are provided for the purpose of illustration only and not limitation.

Technology Category: a