MATA, Stephen, Timothy (22041 Santaquin Dr, Diamond Bar, California, 91765, US)
MATA, Stephen, Timothy (22041 Santaquin Dr, Diamond Bar, California, 91765, US)
| What is claimed is: 1. A strip for diverting sweat from a user's eye, the strip comprising: a waterproof base, having a back surface configured for facing the user and a front surface configured for facing away from the user, the back surface being coated with a waterproof adhesive substance and being configured for being joined to the user's forehead above the eyebrow; a waterproof flap, joined to the front surface of the base, such that a channel between the base and the flap is formed, the channel being configured for collecting the sweat dripping along the user's forehead and preventing the sweat from dripping into the user's eye; wherein the strip is elongated and configured for spanning an area of the forehead above the eyebrow, such that neither end of the strip is located right above the eye; wherein the channel is open at at least one end of the strip, for draining the collected sweat from the channel down the user's face; wherein the at least one open end of the channel is located at a location chosen so that the drained sweat does not flow to the user's eye. 2. The strip of claim 1 , wherein the strip is tapered at the open end of the channel, the taper being configured for increasing a draining rate of the sweat. 3. The strip of claim 1, further comprising a ridge along the top edge of the flap, for preventing an overflowing or spewing out of the sweat collected in the channel. 4. The strip of claim 1 : wherein the channel is open at both ends of the strip; and wherein the channel has two slopes to direct the collected sweat to flow downward toward the channel's open ends. 5. The strip of claim 1, wherein the first end of the strip is configured for being located above the user's nose bridge, and the second end of the strip is configured for being located outside the eyebrow, in proximity of the user's temple. 6. The strip of claim 5 : wherein the channel is closed at the first end of the strip and the channel is open at the second end of the strip; and wherein the closed end of the channel is at a higher level with respect to the open end of the channel, such that the collected sweat is directed to flow toward the open end of the channel. 7. The strip of claim 6, wherein the closed end of the channel is tapered, the narrow end of the taper being located at a higher level than the wide end of the taper, such that the sweat collected by the narrow end of the taper is directed to flow toward the wide end of the taper, and through the channel toward the open end of the channel. 8. A pair of strips, according to the strip of claim 5, each strip configured for being joined to the user's forehead above a different eyebrow. 9. The strip of claim 1, wherein the base and the flap are made of a single sheet of material. 10. The strip of claim 1, wherein the base and the flap are made of a material comprising at least one of: plastic, latex, rubber, silicone, and paper. 11. The strip of claim 1, wherein the adhesive comprises at least one of: a pressure sensitive adhesive, a temporary adhesive, a silicone based adhesive, and an acrylic based adhesive. 12. The strip of claim 1, wherein the strip is reusable. 13. The strip of claim 1, comprising a plurality of flaps joined to the front surface of the base at different heights, each flap forming a different channel with the base. 14. The strip of claim 1, comprising a secondary flap extending outward from a front surface of the flap, and forming a secondary channel with the front surface of the flap. 15. The strip of claim 1, wherein the flap is designed not to move with respect to the base. 16. A strip for diverting sweat from a user's both eyes, the strip comprising: a waterproof base, having a back surface facing the user and an front surface facing away from the user, the back surface being coated with a waterproof adhesive substance and being configured for being joined to the user's forehead above the eyebrow; and a waterproof flap, joined to the front surface of the base, such that a channel between the base and the flap is formed, the channel being configured for collecting the sweat dripping along the user's forehead and preventing the sweat from dripping into the user's eye; wherein the strip is elongated and configured for spanning an area of the forehead above the eyebrow, such that a first end of the strip is located near the user's left temple, to the left of the user's left eyebrow, and a second end of the strip is located near the user's right temple, to the right of the user's right eyebrow; and wherein the channel is open at at least one end of the strip, for draining the collected sweat from the channel down the user's face. 17. The strip of claim 16, wherein the channel is open at both ends. 18. The strip of claim 16, comprising a plurality of flaps joined to the front surface of the base at different heights, each flap forming a different channel with the base. 19. The strip of claim 16, comprising a secondary flap extending outward from a front surface of the flap, and forming a secondary channel with the front surface of the flap. 20. The strip of claim 16, wherein the flap is designed not to move with respect to the base. |
Cross-References to Related Applications
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Serial Number 61/251,176 filed on October 13, 2009, and U.S. Application Serial Number 12/772,990 filed May 3, 2010 which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in the respective entirety of each.
Technical Field
[0002] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to sweat strips, sweat collectors, sweat diverters, and devices designed for preventing sweat from dripping onto a person's eye.
Background of the Invention
[0003] During physical activity, when exposed to high temperatures, and/or when placed in a stressful situation, people tend to sweat. Some of the sweat produced above the eyes, particularly sweat produced on the forehead, may enter a person's eyes. Depending on the quantity of sweat and sensitivity of a person's eyes, sweat entering the eyes may irritate or even incapacitate a person. A device for preventing sweat from dripping onto a person's eye would be therefore advantageous.
[0004] A common device for diverting sweat is a headband. The band is worn above the user's eyebrows, and is designed for absorbing the user's sweat. However, headbands are generally made of heat retaining materials, and therefore work against the user's body's attempt at cooling down through sweat. Further, headbands can move position which can irritate or chafe the skin and put pressure onto the forehead.
[0005] US Patent Application 2008/0086792 by Kuracina et al. describes waterproof moisture diverters attachable via an adhesive substance to a region above the eye and below the eyebrow. Such moisture diverters, however, are applied to a region in which skin is generally sensitive. The region is furthermore characterized by contours and ridges which are difficult to conform to, making it difficult to apply the diverters and create a sweatproof seal. Part of the above region may include the eyelids, and the diverters may cause discomfort when the eyelids close and open for blinking. The eyelids' movement may cause the diverters to detach and fall off. Removing the diverters may cause discomfort to the user, since the user's eyelids may be pulled during removal of the diverters. The upper portion of the diverter is devoid of adhesive, a fact which may cause the diverter to fall off prematurely. Because the diverter is so close to the eye, the user's peripheral vision may be impaired. Furthermore, the proximity of the diverter to the eye may cause a user to damage or irritate the eye, while applying or removing the diverter.
Brief Summary of Embodiments of the Invention
[0006] The present invention relates to a strip for diverting sweat from a user's eye. The strip is designed for being applied on the user's forehead, above a user's eyebrow, for collecting sweat in a channel, and for draining the sweat from the channel at a location which is away from the user's eye.
[0007] An aspect of some embodiments to the present invention relates to a strip for diverting sweat from a user's eye, the strip including a waterproof base and a waterproof flap. The waterproof base has a back surface facing the user and a front surface facing away from the user, the back surface being coated with a waterproof adhesive substance and being designed for being joined to the user's forehead above the eyebrow. The waterproof flap is joined to the front surface of the base, such that a channel between the base and the flap is formed, the channel being designed for collecting the sweat dripping along the user's forehead and preventing the sweat from dripping into the user's eye. The strip is elongated and configured for spanning an area of the forehead above the eyebrow, such that neither end of the strip is located right above the eye. The channel is open at at least one end of the strip, for draining the collected sweat from the channel down the user's face. The open end of the channel is located at a location chosen so that the drained sweat does not flow to the user's eye.
[0008] In a variant, the strip is tapered at the open end of the channel, the taper being configured for increasing a draining rate of the sweat.
[0009] In another variant, the strip further includes a ridge along the top edge of the flap, for preventing an overflowing or spewing out of the sweat collected in the channel.
[0010] In a further variant, the channel is open at both ends of the strip, and the channel has two slopes designed to direct the collected sweat to flow downward toward the channel's open ends. [0011] In yet a further variant, the first end of the strip is designed for being located above the user's nose bridge, and the second end of the strip is configured for being located outside the eyebrow, in proximity of the user's temple.
[0012] Optionally, the channel is closed at the first end of the strip and the channel is open at the second end of the strip. The closed end of the channel is at a higher level with respect to the open end of the channel, such that the collected sweat is directed to flow toward the open end of the channel.
[0013] In a variant, the closed end of the channel is tapered, the narrow end of the taper being located at a higher level than the wide end of the taper, such that the sweat collected by the narrow end of the taper is directed to flow toward the wide end of the taper, and through the channel toward the open end of the channel.
[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a pair of strips is provided, according to the above strip, each strip configured for being joined to the user's forehead above a different eyebrow.
[0015] In a variant, the base and the flap of the strip are made of a single sheet of material.
[0016] In another variant, the base and the flap of the strip are made of a material including at least one of: plastic, latex, rubber, silicone, and paper.
[0017] In a further variant, the adhesive includes at least one of: a pressure sensitive adhesive, a temporary adhesive, a silicone based adhesive, and an acrylic based adhesive.
[0018] Optionally, strip is designed for a single use.
[0019] Alternatively, the strip is reusable.
[0020] In a variant, the strip includes a plurality of flaps joined to the front surface of the base at different heights, each flap forming a different channel with the base.
[0021] In another variant, the strip includes a secondary flap extending outward from a front surface of the flap, and forming a secondary channel with the front surface of the flap.
[0022] In a further variant, the flap is designed not to move with respect to the base. [0023] Another aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to a strip for diverting sweat from a user's both eyes, the strip including a waterproof base and a waterproof flap. The waterproof base has a back surface facing the user and an front surface facing away from the user, the back surface being coated with a waterproof adhesive substance and being designed for being joined to the user's forehead above the eyebrow. The waterproof flap is joined to the front surface of the base, such that a channel between the base and the flap is formed, the channel being designed for collecting the sweat dripping along the user's forehead and preventing the sweat from dripping into the user's eye. The strip is elongated and designed for spanning an area of the forehead above the eyebrow, such that a first end of the strip is located near the user's left temple, to the left of the user's left eyebrow, and a second end of the strip is located near the user's right temple, to the right of the user's right eyebrow. The channel is open at at least one end of the strip, for draining the collected sweat from the channel down the user's face.
[0024] In a variant, the channel is open at both ends.
[0025] In another variant, the strip for diverting sweat from both eyes includes a plurality of flaps joined to the front surface of the base at different heights, each flap forming a different channel with the base.
[0026] In a further variant, the strip for diverting sweat from both eyes includes a secondary flap extending outward from a front surface of the flap, and forming a secondary channel with the front surface of the flap.
[0027] In yet a further variant, the flap is designed not to move with respect to the base.
[0028] Other features and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the features in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The summary is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined solely by the claims attached hereto.
[0029] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0030] The present invention, in accordance with one or more various embodiments, is described in detail with reference to the following figures. The drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only and merely depict typical or example embodiments of the invention. These drawings are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding of the invention and shall not be considered limiting of the breadth, scope, or applicability of the invention. It should be noted that for clarity and ease of illustration these drawings are not necessarily made to scale.
[0031] Some of the figures included herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention from different viewing angles. Although the accompanying descriptive text may refer to such views as "top," "bottom" or "side" views, such references are merely descriptive and do not imply or require that the invention be implemented or used in a particular spatial orientation unless explicitly stated otherwise.
[0032] Figs, la-lc are drawings illustrating a sweat diverting strip having a channel with two untapered open ends, according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0033] Figs. 2a-2b are drawings illustrating a sweat diverting strip having a channel with one tapered end, according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0034] Figs. 3a-3b are drawings illustrating a sweat diverting strip having a channel with one open end and one closed end, according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0035] Fig. 4 is a schematic drawing illustrating a pair of sweat diverting strips, each strips applied over one eye, according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0036] Figs. 5a-5b are schematic drawings illustrating a long sweat diverting strip applied above a user's brow to protect both of the user's eyes from sweat, according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0037] Fig. 6 is a schematic drawing illustrating a cross section of a sweat diverting strip having a ridge, according to some embodiments of the present invention; [0038] Fig. 7 is a schematic drawing illustrating a cross section of a sweat diverting strip having secondary flaps forming secondary channels with the primary flap's front surface, according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0039] Fig. 8 is a schematic drawing illustrating a cross section of a sweat diverting strip having a plurality of flaps attached to a single base, according to some embodiments of the present invention; and
[0040] Fig. 9 is a schematic drawing illustrating a cross section of a sweat diverting strip having a thick flap, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0041] The figures are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. It should be understood that the invention can be practiced with modification and alteration, and that the invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.
Detailed Description of the Embodiments of the Invention
[0042] From time-to-time, the present invention is described herein in terms of example environments. Description in terms of these environments is provided to allow the various features and embodiments of the invention to be portrayed in the context of an exemplary application. After reading this description, it will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art how the invention can be implemented in different and alternative environments.
[0043] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. All patents, applications, published applications and other publications referred to herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. If a definition set forth in this section is contrary to or otherwise inconsistent with a definition set forth in applications, published applications and other publications that are herein incorporated by reference, the definition set forth in this document prevails over the definition that is incorporated herein by reference.
[0044] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to sweat strips, sweat collectors, sweat diverters, and devices designed for preventing sweat from dripping onto a user's eye.
[0045] Before describing embodiments of the present invention, some terms are to be defined.
[0046] The term "user" refers to a person wearing a sweat diverting strip. [0047] The term "front" refers to side of an object which faces away from the user. Therefore, a strip's front surface is the surface of the strip facing away from the user wearing the strip.
[0048] The term "back" refers to a side of an object which faces the wearer. Therefore, a strip's back surface is the surface of the strip facing the user wearing the strip.
[0049] An aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to strip for diverting sweat from a user's eye. The strip includes an elongated waterproof base having a back adhesive surface, and a waterproof flap joined to the front surface of the base. The base is designed for being attached to above the user's eyebrow. A channel is formed between the base's front surface and the flap. The channel is designed for collecting sweat. The collected sweat is drained via at least one open end of the channel. Optionally, the open end of the channel is tapered. In such a configuration, the contact between the sweat and the channel's walls is decreased near the tapered end and a draining rate of the sweat is increased. In this manner, the chance of a build up and overflow of sweat in the channel is decreased.
[0050] The open end of the channel is located at a position chosen so that the drained sweat does not flow to the user's eye. In a variant, the position is above the user's nose bridge. In another variant, the position is outside the eyebrow, near the user's temple. Optionally, the channel is open at both ends of the strip.
[0051] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a pocket is present at the end of strip above the nose bridge. The pocket is designed for collecting sweat and is curved to direct the sweat to flow in the channel toward the open end of the strip outside the user's brow. In this manner, sweat is not drained to flow over the user's nose.
[0052] Because the forehead area above the eyebrow is usually flat, the strip is easy to wear, as the strip does not need to conform to irregular surfaces. Furthermore, since area above the user's eyebrow is made of a layer of skin over rigid bone, the strip is easily attached to the user's forehead by pressing the base against the bone. Because the skin on the forehead is generally less sensitive than between the eyebrows and the eyes, applying the strip to the forehead decreases the chance of skin irritations due to the application and removal of the strip, and due to the contact between the skin and the adhesive substance. The distance between the eye and the strip decreases or totally eliminates negative effects on the user's peripheral vision.
[0053] Applying the strip on the forehead, does not limit the size, shape, or number of flaps. The flap may therefore sport many different designs that are not applicable to US Patent Application 2008/0086792. Different designs may benefit different kinds of users. Users who tend to sweat more than others, because of a medical condition for example, may require a strip able to collect and quickly drain a large amount of sweat. Users who perform intensive physical activity, such as athletes, soldiers, or construction workers, for example, may require a strip from which collected sweat won't overflow or spew out even during sudden acceleration.
[0054] In a variant of some embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of flaps extends outward from the base, forming a plurality of channels. In this manner, the amount of sweat collected and drained by the channels is increased.
[0055] In another variant, one or more secondary flaps extend from the primary flap, forming one or more secondary channels, and therefore increasing the amount of sweat collected and drained by the channels.
[0056] In a further variant, a ridge is provided along the flap. In this manner, a chance of a spewing out or overflowing of sweat out of the channel and onto the user's eye is decreased.
[0057] In yet another variant, the area in which the flap is joined to the base is wide, and therefore the movement of the flap with respect to the base is decreased, keeping the flap in place during sudden accelerations, such as the user's movement, or a forceful contact between the user and an object or the user and another person. A flap that does not move with respect to the base may decrease the chance of sweat spewing out of the channel during a sudden acceleration. In an exemplary embodiment the base is approximately 0.25 inches high, and the area of contact between the base and the flap is about 0.069 inches.
[0058] The strip may be manufactured in different colors. Because the size of the strip is not as limited as the size of the strip described in US Patent Application 2008/0086792, the strip described in the present document may sport a logo which is easily visible.
[0059] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a strip is provided for diverting sweat from both eyes of the user. The strip is designed to be attached to the user's forehead above the user's eyebrows, such that the first end of the strip is located near the user's left temple, to the left of the user's left eyebrow, and the second end of the strip is located near the user's right temple, to the right of the user's right eyebrow. Such a strip decreases the chance of sweat reaching the user's eyes, when the user rolls the user's head to the left or the right about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the user's face. [0060] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.
[0061] Referring now to the figures, Figs, la-lc are drawings illustrating a sweat diverting strip 100 having a channel with two untapered open ends, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Fig. la is a perspective view of the strip 100. Fig. lb is a cross sectional side view of the strip 100. Fig. lc is a front view of the strip 100 attached to a user's forehead.
[0062] The strip 100 includes a base 102 and a flap 104. The base 102 is a band of waterproof material having a back surface coated with a waterproof adhesive substance 106. The base 102 is designed for being attached to a user's forehead above the user's eyebrow 108 via the adhesive substance 106. The flap 104 is joined to the front surface of the base 102, and a channel 110 is formed between the front surface of the base 102 and the back surface of the flap 104. The channel is designed for collecting sweat 112 dripping from above the strip 100, therefore preventing the sweat 112 from dripping into the user's eye 114. The collected sweat is directed to one or two open ends of the channel 110 and drained out of the open ends.
[0063] The strip 100 is designed to be worn on the user's forehead over the user's eyebrow 108. According to some embodiments of the present invention, a first end of the strip is located near the user's temple, and a second end of the strip is located above the user's nose bridge 116. In this manner, a first portion 118 of the sweat is drained near the user's temple and a second portion 120 of sweat is drained over the user's nose bridge 116.
[0064] Because the strip 100 is designed to worn over the forehead, the constraint on the size of the strip 100 is decreased may sport any number of designs, as described below in reference to Figs. 6-9. The strip 100 may also include variations, such as tapers described in reference to Figs. 2a- 2b, or pockets as described in reference to Figs. 3a-3b. Furthermore, the strip 100 may sport a logo which is easily visible.
[0065] In a variant, the channel 110 sports two slopes to direct the flow of the collected sweat toward the two ends of the channel. Optionally, the channel 110 is shaped like an arch having a maximal height set at about a middle point thereof, and two downward sloping curves on each side of the position of maximal height. [0066] Optionally, the channel 110 is closed at one end. The strip 100 is designed to be worn such that the closed end of the channel is at a higher level than the open end of the channel, such that a slope is formed to direct the collected sweat toward the open end of the channel, for draining.
[0067] The base 102 and the flap 104 are made of waterproof material. For example, the base 102 and the flap 104 may be made of plastic, latex, rubber, silicone, coated paper, or a combination thereof. In a variant, the base 102 and the flap 104 are manufactured from a single sheet of material. In another variant, the base 102 and the flap 104 are made from different sheets of material and joined to each other, for example via a waterproof adhesive or by being fused together. Optionally, the base 102, the flap 104, and the adhesive substance 106 are transparent, to decrease the visibility of the strip 100.
[0068] The adhesive substance 106 is a waterproof substance, designed for preventing sweat from leaking through the back side of the base 102. The adhesive substance 106 includes, for example, a pressure sensitive adhesive, a temporary adhesive, a silicone based adhesive, and an acrylic based adhesive. In a variant, the strip 100 includes a strip to cover the adhesive substance 106, in order to maintain the adhesive properties of substance 106. The strip is designed to be removed prior to use of the strip 100.
[0069] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the strip 100 is designed for being used one time only, and for being disposed after the use. Alternatively, the strip 100 is designed for being used a plurality of times. This is accomplished by providing the user with the adhesive substance 106 as a separate item, and dispensing the adhesive on the back of the base 102 before each use.
[0070] The dimensions of the strip 100 may vary. Optionally, the strip 100 is provided in different sizes, to fit different people. In a variant, the strip 100 is provided in three sizes, for children, juveniles, and adult. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the strip 100 has a length 122 within a range between about 2 inches and about 4 inches, a width 124 of about 0.12 inches, the base has a height 126 of about 0.25 inches, and the channel has a depth 128 of about 0.11 inches.
[0071] Figs. 2a- 2b are drawings illustrating a sweat diverting strip 200 having a channel with one tapered end, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 2a is a perspective drawing of the strip 200. Fig. 2b is a schematic drawing illustrating the strip 200 worn by a user.
[0072] The strip 200 is similar in all aspects to the strip 100 of Figs, la-lc, described above. The difference between the strip 200 and the strip 100 lies in the tapered end 202 at an open end of the strip 200. The strip 200 becomes narrower and narrower, as one end of the strip 200 is approached. The narrowing of the strip decreases the inner surface of the channel which contacts the sweat. In this manner, the sweat collected in channel of the strip 200 drains at an increased rate from the tapered end, as shown if Fig. 2b. The quicker draining decreases the chance of sweat overflowing over the flap and reaching the user's eye.
[0073] In a variant, the strip 200 has a channel open at two ends. Optionally, the tapered end 202 is designed to be placed near the temple of the user, so that the draining is increased near the user's temple and decreased near the user's nose bridge 204. Alternatively, the tapered end is designed to be placed over the user's nose bridge 204, so that the draining is increased near the user's nose bridge 204 and decreased near the user's temple.
[0074] In another variant, both ends of the strip 200 are tapered. In a further variant, the strip 200 is closed at one end, and tapered at the other end.
[0075] Figs. 3a-3b are drawings illustrating a sweat diverting strip 300 having a channel with one open end and one closed end, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 3a is a perspective drawing of the strip 300. Fig. 3b is a schematic drawing illustrating the strip 300 worn by a user.
[0076] The strip 300 is similar in all aspects to the strip 100 of Figs, la-lc, described above. The difference between the strip 300 and the strip 100 lies in the closed end 302 of the strip 300. Because the end 302 of the strip is closed, the closed end 302 of the channel of the strip 300 is designed to be placed at a higher level than the open end of the channel of the strip 300. In this manner, a slope is formed for direct the flow of collected sweat toward the open end of the channel of the strip 100.
[0077] Optionally, the closed end 302 is located above the user's nose bridge 304, such that the collected sweat drains only near the user's temple. Alternatively, the closed end 302 is located near the user's temple, such that the collected sweat drains only above the user's nose bridge 304. [0078] In a variant, the closed end 302 of the channel of the strip 300 is tapered, to form a pocket. The taper may increase the rate of flow of the collected sweat along the channel toward the open end of the channel of the strip 300. In this manner, the chance than some of the sweat drains from via the closed end 302 may be decreased.
[0079] Fig. 4 is a schematic drawing illustrating a pair of sweat diverting strips, each strips applied over one eye, such that both eyes are protected from sweat, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0080] A first strip 400 is designed to be worn over a first eyebrow 402, to protect a first eye 404 from contact with sweat. A second strip 406 is designed to be worn over a second eyebrow 408, to protect a second eye 410 from contact with sweat. By wearing both strips 400 and 406, the user protects both eyes from contact with sweat. The strips 400 and 406 may have characteristics belonging to any of the strips 100, 200, and 300, described above.
[0081] Figs. 5a-5b are schematic drawings illustrating a long sweat diverting strip 500 applied above a user's brow to protect both of the user's eyes from sweat, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In Fig. 5a, the user's face is in an upright position. In Fig. 5b, the user's face is tilted.
[0082] The strip 500 is a strip with a channel having two open ends, and is similar to any of the strips 100 and 200, described above. The strip 500, however, is longer than the hitherto described strips and is designed to span an area of the user's forehead between the user's temples. The strip 500 is worn over the user's eyebrows 502 and 504, to protect the user's first eye 506 and second eye 508. The strip 500 has a channel designed for collecting sweat 510 flowing on the user's forehead, and shaped to direct the collected sweat toward both ends of the strip. A first portion 512 of the collected sweat is drained near the user's first temple, a second portion 514 of the collected sweat is drained near the user's second temple.
[0083] A user wearing the strip 500 may tilt the user's head about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the user's face, as shown in Fig. 5b. Since the draining ends of the channel of the strip 500 are far from the eyes and no drain exists above the user's nose bridge, the drained sweat will not reach the user's eyes, despite the tilt. The strip 500 is therefore convenient to users who may move a lot, such as soldiers, athletes, or construction workers, for example.
[0084] Optionally, the ends of the channel of the strip 500 are tapered, to increase the draining rate of the collected sweat, and decrease the chance of sweat overflowing over the flap. [0085] Fig. 6 is a schematic drawing illustrating a cross section of a sweat diverting strip 600 having a ridge, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0086] The sweat diverting strip 600 may be similar to any of the strips 100, 200, 300, or 500, described above. The strip 600 includes a ridge 602 set along the top of the flap 604. The ridge may prevent a possible overflowing of the collected sweat from the channel 606. Also, the may prevent a possible spewing out of the collected sweat, due to a user's motion or a user's forceful contact against an object or a person.
[0087] In a variant, the ridge is oriented backward (i.e. toward the face of the user), in order to cover a larger area of the top of the channel 606. In this manner, spewing out is more efficiently prevented.
[0088] Fig. 7 is a schematic drawing illustrating a cross section of a sweat diverting strip 700 having secondary flaps forming secondary channels with the primary flap's front surface, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0089] The sweat diverting strip 700 may be similar to any of the strips 100, 200, 300, or 500, described above. The strip 700 includes a base 701 , a primary flap 702, and secondary flaps 704, 706, and 708, attached to a front surface of the primary flap 702. The primary flap 702 forms a primary channel 710 with the base 701. Each of the secondary flaps forms a secondary channel with the primary flap 702. The secondary channels are designed to collect sweat that drips to far to be captured by the primary channel 710, for example sweat dripping from a user's hair bangs. Furthermore, in case of an overflow or sewing out of swear from the primart channel 710, the overflowing or spewed out sweat may be captured and drained by the secondary channels. In this manner, further protection is provided to the user's eye.
[0090] Though three secondary flaps are shown in Fig. 7, any number of secondary flaps may be provided. For example one, two, four, or a higher number of secondary flaps.
[0091] Fig. 8 is a schematic drawing illustrating a cross section of a sweat diverting strip 800 having a plurality of flaps attached to a single base, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0092] The sweat diverting strip 800 may be similar to any of the strips 100, 200, 300, or 500, described above. The sweat strip 800 includes a base 802, and three flaps 804, 806, and 808, joined to the base 802. The bottom flap 804 forms a bottom channel 810 with the base 802. The middle flap 806 forms a middle channel 812 with the base 802. The top flap 808 forms a top channel 814 with the base 802. A larger number of channels collects more sweat, therefore protecting the user's eye more efficiently.
[0093] In a variant, the flaps 804, 806, and 808 are terraced. Sweat overflowing or spewed out from the top channel 814 may be caught and drained by the middle channel 812 and/or the bottom channel 810, instead of reaching the user's eye. Similarly, sweat overflowing or spewed out from the middle channel 812 may be caught and drained by the bottom channel 810, instead of reaching the user's eye.
[0094] Though three flaps are shown in Fig. 8, any number of secondary flaps may be provided. For example two, four, or a higher number of flaps.
[0095] Fig. 9 is a schematic drawing illustrating a cross section of a sweat diverting strip 900 having a thick flap, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0096] The sweat diverting strip 900 may be similar to any of the strips 100, 200, 300, or 500, described above. The strip 900 includes a base 902 and a flap 904. The flap 904 is designed to be thick, to increase the studiness of the strip 900, so that movement of the flap 904 with respect to the base 902 is reduced or eliminated. This allows a user to move freely, without worrying that a movement of the flap 904 with respect to the base 902 will cause an overflowing or spewing out of the sweat captured by the channel 906.
[0097] In order to increase the sturdiness of the strip 900, the cross sectional height 908 of location 910 at which the flap 904 and base 902 are connected is above a predefined value, depending on the material the flap 904 is made of. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the flap is made of silicone substance, and the height 908 is about 0.069 inches
[0098] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams may depict an example architectural or other configuration for the invention, which is done to aid in understanding the features and functionality that can be included in the invention. The invention is not restricted to the illustrated example architectures or configurations, but the desired features can be implemented using a variety of alternative architectures and configurations. Indeed, it will be apparent to one of skill in the art how alternative functional, logical or physical partitioning and configurations can be implemented to implement the desired features of the present invention. Also, a multitude of different constituent module names other than those depicted herein can be applied to the various partitions. Additionally, with regard to flow diagrams, operational descriptions and method claims, the order in which the steps are presented herein shall not mandate that various embodiments be implemented to perform the recited functionality in the same order unless the context dictates otherwise.
[0099] Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that the various features, aspects and functionality described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the particular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can be applied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the other embodiments of the invention, whether or not such embodiments are described and whether or not such features are presented as being a part of a described embodiment. Thus the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments.
[00100] Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term "including" should be read as meaning "including, without limitation" or the like; the term "example" is used to provide exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms "a" or "an" should be read as meaning "at least one," "one or more" or the like; and adjectives such as "conventional," "traditional," "normal," "standard," "known" and terms of similar meaning should not be construed as limiting the item described to a given time period or to an item available as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompass conventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may be available or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, where this document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass those apparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in the future.
[00101] A group of items linked with the conjunction "and" should not be read as requiring that each and every one of those items be present in the grouping, but rather should be read as "and/or" unless expressly stated otherwise. Similarly, a group of items linked with the conjunction "or" should not be read as requiring mutual exclusivity among that group, but rather should also be read as "and/or" unless expressly stated otherwise. Furthermore, although items, elements or components of the invention may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural is contemplated to be within the scope thereof unless limitation to the singular is explicitly stated.
[00102] The presence of broadening words and phrases such as "one or more," "at least," "but not limited to" or other like phrases in some instances shall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or required in instances where such broadening phrases may be absent. The use of the term "module" does not imply that the components or functionality described or claimed as part of the module are all configured in a common package. Indeed, any or all of the various components of a module, whether control logic or other components, can be combined in a single package or separately maintained and can further be distributed across multiple locations.
[00103] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.
[00104] Additionally, the various embodiments set forth herein are described in terms of exemplary block diagrams, flow charts and other illustrations. As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after reading this document, the illustrated embodiments and their various alternatives can be implemented without confinement to the illustrated examples. For example, block diagrams and their accompanying description should not be construed as mandating a particular architecture or configuration.