Bausch-lomb Incorporated

Richard L Brhel

Henri Brune

A hingeless temple for eyewear comprises a unitary length of flexible material such as a shape-memory metal or metal alloy which has a forward section, an elongated section and a flexible pivot section between the forward and elongated sections. The pivot section is characterized by three bends which form a generally serpentine configuration. In the unbiased position, the temple extends in the open position with respect to the eyewear front. Means are provided for selectively and releasably closing the temple in the folded position with respect to the eyewear front. When the closing means are released, the temple automatically pivots to the open position. The front end of the temple may be attached directly to the eyewear front, thereby negating the need for a separate hinge assembly.

Temple for eyewear having an integrally formed serpentine hinge

A connecting system is provided for connecting two components, such as a plastic component to a metal component in an eyewear fram and in particular, in the temple of an eyewear frame. A plastic member with a hollow receiving area for receiving a metal member therein comprises the distal end of the temple. The metal member which is attached to the plastic member on one end and the front frame on the other end has a collar which is slideably mounted around it for attachment to the plastic member. The collar slides with the expansion or contraction of the plastic member to maintain the desired metal to plastic connection interfit.

Growing community of inventors

Rochester, NY, United States of America

Richard L Brhel