HEADWORN DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED STORAGE FEATURES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to wearables with storage features and more particularly to headworn devices with integrated storage features.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present invention claims priority from the following U.S. Provisional Application, the entire disclosure of which, including but not limited to any and all cited references, is incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/239,177 (filed Aug. 31, 2021).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It can reasonably be presumed that even the earliest forms of clothing included features for storing objects so as to enable the objects to be carried by a person while keeping the person's hands free to engage in other necessary activities. Many modern forms of clothing have maintained this functionality, mostly in the form of pockets on pants, shorts and shirts.

However, many pockets on pants, shorts and shirts can be visually distracting or are otherwise undesirable simply because they can be seen. Further, these and other pockets, even hidden or disguised pockets, can add unwanted bulk to the clothing.

In addition, of course, in order to take advantage of pockets on pants, shorts and shirts, a person must be wearing pants, shorts or shirts that have pockets. However, many pants, shorts and shirts that a person may want to wear do not have pockets.

Accordingly, there is a need for wearables having storage features that are not visually distracting or undesirable, and that do not add unwanted bulk. Furthermore, there is a need for storage features on wearables that are not pants, shorts or shirts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Devices

The present invention provides headworn devices with integrated storage features, which address the above mentioned shortcomings by meeting the above described needs.

The present invention in preferred embodiments provides headworn devices, such as for example hats, with integrated storage features, such as for example one or more integrated pockets.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention, a headworn device, such as for example a hat, has an integrated storage feature, such as for example a pocket.

In preferred embodiments, the headworn device includes a crown having a wall, and the wall has an inwardly directed surface. Further in preferred embodiments, the headworn device includes a top supported by the wall, and the top has a bottom surface. Further in preferred embodiments, the bottom surface and the inwardly directed surface provide a recess dimensioned to accommodate an upper portion of a head of a person. Further in preferred embodiments, an intersection of the bottom surface and the inwardly directed surface establish an edge of a pocket. Further in preferred embodiments, the pocket has a first layer and a second layer, with the first layer being attached to the intersection and defining a storage volume, and the second layer preventing escape of the pocket's contents from the pocket during use of the headworn device.

In certain preferred embodiments, the storage volume is adjacent one of the surfaces. In some embodiments, the second layer of the pocket is between one of the surfaces and the first layer of the pocket. In some embodiments, the first layer of the pocket is between one of the surfaces and the second layer of the pocket.

For example, in a first preferred embodiment, the second layer is between the first layer of the pocket and the bottom surface of the top of the crown.

Preferably, in this embodiment, the first layer is attached to a majority of the intersection of the bottom surface and the inwardly directed surface. Further preferably, in this embodiment, a pocket opening is formed along a portion of the intersection where the first layer is not attached to the intersection.

Further preferably in this embodiment, the second layer is attached to the intersection of the bottom surface and the inwardly directed surface along less than the majority of the intersection but along the portion.

Accordingly, for example, with the layers in such a configuration, items passed through the pocket opening and into the storage volume can be stored in the storage volume, between the first layer and the bottom surface.

Further accordingly, for example, with the layers in such a configuration, during use of the headworn device, items stored in the storage volume that may shift in position during such use are preferably prevented from passing back through the opening by the second layer covering the opening.

It should be understood that one, more or all of the edges of the pocket need not be formed along any intersection of surfaces, but rather can be attached to one surface without also being attached to another surface.

It should also be understood that for headworn devices in which the crown is formed of one or more structures that form one or more surfaces with no intersection (e.g., a crown formed of a dome), the edges of the pocket can be attached to the surface or surfaces and does not require attachment at an intersection.

It should also be understood that although the above discussed configuration of the first and second layers is described as being formed in relation to a bottom surface of a top of a crown, the same and other configurations can be formed in relation to an inwardly directed surface of a wall of a crown.

For another example, in a second preferred embodiment, the first layer is between the second layer of the pocket and the inwardly directed surface of the wall of the crown.

Preferably, in this embodiment, the first layer is attached to a length of the intersection of the bottom surface and the inwardly directed surface. Further preferably, in this embodiment, a pocket opening is formed along the inwardly directed surface. For example, to form the pocket opening, the first layer can be also attached to a portion of the inwardly directed surface spaced from the intersection (e.g., opposite and parallel to the intersection), and also attached along the inwardly directed surface extending therebetween opposite the resulting pocket opening (e.g., to form a closed end of the pocket). It should be understood that the first layer can be additionally or alternatively attached to the inwardly directed surface in other configurations so as to form the storage volume adjacent the inwardly directed surface, and the pocket opening along the inwardly directed surface.

Further preferably in this embodiment, the second layer is attached to the inwardly directed surface over the pocket opening. For example, to cover the pocket opening, the second layer can be attached parallel to the pocket opening along the inwardly directed surface, and extend over a portion of the first layer. It should be understood that the second layer can be additionally or alternatively attached to the inwardly directed surface in other configurations so as to cover the pocket opening.

It should also be understood that although the above discussed configuration of the first and second layers is described as being formed in relation to an inwardly directed surface of a wall of a crown, the same and other configurations can be formed in relation to a bottom surface of a top of a crown.

Further preferably in this embodiment, the length of the intersection to which the first layer is attached sits above an ear of a person when the headworn device is worn by the person. Further preferably in this embodiment, the length of the intersection to which the first layer is attached extends along the inwardly directed surface toward the back of the headworn device.

Further preferably in this embodiment, the wall has a wall opening permitting access to the pocket opening from an outwardly directed surface of the wall.

Further preferably in this embodiment, the first layer is spaced inwardly from the inwardly directed surface to provide protection of the head of the person from objects protruding through the wall to the inwardly directed surface.

Accordingly, items such as, for example, cash, credit cards, identification cards and other valuables can be stored in the pocket not only when the headworn device is not being worn, but also when the headworn device is being worn. Accordingly, items can be carried with the person even if the person is not wearing accessories or other articles of clothing that have pockets. Further, items can be carried without visible pockets and without added bulk.

In preferred embodiments, the headworn device preferably includes one or more features directed to achieving one or more of the following: temperature maintenance, ventilation provision, and sun protection.

More particularly, in certain preferred embodiments, the crown has a naturally light pigment that maintains a cool temperature in intense sun conditions.

Further particularly, in certain preferred embodiments, the wall is formed with a stitching count that provides ventilation.

Still further particularly, in certain preferred embodiments, the headworn device includes a brim extending radially from a base of the crown, and the brim is formed with a stitching count that provides sun protection.

Methods

The present invention further provides methods of manufacturing headworn devices with integrated storage features, which address the above mentioned shortcomings by meeting the above described needs.

The present invention in preferred embodiments provides a method of manufacturing headworn devices, such as for example hats, with integrated storage features, such as for example one or more integrated pockets.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention, a method includes a method of manufacturing a headworn device, such as for example a hat, with an integrated storage feature, such as for example a pocket.

In preferred embodiments, the method includes forming a crown having a wall, the wall having an inwardly directed surface. Further in preferred embodiments, the method includes forming a top supported by the wall, the top having a bottom surface. Further in preferred embodiments, the bottom surface and the inwardly directed surface provide a recess dimensioned to accommodate an upper portion of a head of a person. Further in preferred embodiments, an intersection of the bottom surface and the inwardly directed surface establish an edge of a pocket. Further in preferred embodiments, the pocket has a first layer and a second layer, with the first layer being attached to the intersection and defining a storage volume, and the second layer preventing escape of the pocket's contents from the pocket during use of the headworn device.

For example, in a first preferred embodiment, the second layer is between the first layer of the pocket and the bottom surface of the top of the crown.

For another example, in a second preferred embodiment, the first layer is between the second layer of the pocket and the inwardly directed surface of the wall of the crown.

Preferably, in this embodiment, the first layer is attached to a length of the intersection of the bottom surface and the inwardly directed surface. Further preferably, in this embodiment, a pocket opening is formed along the inwardly directed surface. For example, to form the pocket opening, the first layer can be also attached to a portion of the inwardly directed surface spaced from the intersection (e.g., opposite and parallel to the intersection), and also attached along the inwardly directed surface extending therebetween opposite the resulting opening (e.g., to form a closed end of the pocket). It should be understood that the first layer can be additionally or alternatively attached to the inwardly directed surface in other configurations so as to form the storage volume adjacent the inwardly directed surface, and the pocket opening along the inwardly directed surface.

Further preferably in this embodiment, the wall has a wall opening permitting access to the pocket opening from an outwardly directed surface of the wall.

In preferred embodiments, the method includes forming the headworn device with one or more features directed to achieving one or more of the following: temperature maintenance, ventilation provision, and sun protection.

More particularly, in certain preferred embodiments, forming the crown includes forming the crown with a light pigment that maintains a cool temperature in intense sun conditions.

Further particularly, in certain preferred embodiments, forming the crown and the top includes forming the top of the crown and the wall of the crown with a stitching count that provides ventilation.

Still further particularly, in certain preferred embodiments, forming the crown includes forming a brim extending radially from a base of the crown, and the brim is formed with a stitching count that provides sun protection.

Additional features and embodiments of the present invention will be apparent from the following descriptions, drawings, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The following example embodiments are representative of example techniques and structures designed to carry out the objects of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these example embodiments. In the accompanying drawings and illustrations, the sizes and relative sizes, shapes, and qualities of lines, entities, and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. A wide variety of additional embodiments will be more readily understood and appreciated through the following detailed description of the example embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a front view of a first preferred embodiment of a headworn device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a front section view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a first top section view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a second top section view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a front view of a second preferred embodiment of a headworn device of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of an oblique section view of the embodiment of FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a top section view of the embodiment of FIG. 6.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a side section view of the embodiment of FIG. 6.

FIG. 12 is an image of a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of a headworn device of the present invention, shown being worn by a person.

FIG. 13 is an image of a perspective partial view of the embodiment of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is an image of a partial bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is an image of a partial side view of the embodiment of FIG. 12, showing a pin attached to an outwardly directed surface of a wall of the crown.

FIG. 16 is an image of a partial bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 12, showing pin backings protruding from an inwardly directed surface of the wall of the crown.

FIG. 17 is an image of a partial bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 12, showing a first layer of the pocket providing protection from pin backings.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a first preferred embodiment of a method of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a second preferred embodiment of a method of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made to preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and pictures. Preferred embodiments are described herein in order to explain the present invention by referring to the figures.

The following description is provided to assist the reader in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the structures and methods described herein. Accordingly, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the structures and methods described herein will be suggested to those of ordinary skill in the art. The progression of method operations described are merely examples, however, and the sequence type of operations is not limited to that set forth herein and may be changed as is known in the art, with the exception of operations necessarily occurring in a certain order. Also, descriptions of well-known functions and construction methods may be simplified and/or omitted for increased clarity and conciseness.

Numerous variations, modifications, and additional embodiments are possible, and accordingly, all such variations, modifications, and embodiments are to be regarded as being within the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, regardless of the content of any portion of this application, unless clearly specified to the contrary, there is no requirement for the inclusion in any claim herein or of any application claiming priority hereto of any particular described or illustrated activity or element, any particular sequence of such activities, or any particular interrelationship of such elements. Moreover, any activity may be repeated, any activity may be performed by multiple entities, and/or any element may be duplicated. In addition, the sizes, shapes and configurations of the various structures and elements may vary in order to perform specific functions as necessary for a particular implementation.

Preferred Embodiments of Headworn Devices

The present invention provides a headworn device with integrated storage features. It should be understood that the present invention encompasses any headworn devices, such as for example without limitation hats, helmets, visors, scarfs, hoods, and the like. It should further be understood that the storage features can be any storage features, such as for example without limitation pockets, pouches, sleeves, enclosures, and the like. The storage features can be of any suitable or desirable dimension. While the storage features may be described as being in certain locations on the headworn devices, it should be understood that one or more storage features can be in any suitable location or locations on the headworn devices.

First Preferred Embodiment

FIGS. 1-5 illustrate an example of a first preferred embodiment of a headworn device of the present invention.

In the illustrated example, the headworn device 140 includes a crown 150 having a wall 160, and the wall 160 has an inwardly directed surface 162. Further in the illustrated example, the headworn device 140 includes a top 120 supported by the wall 160, and the top 120 has a bottom surface 122. Further in the illustrated example, the bottom surface 122 and the inwardly directed surface 162 provide a recess 170 dimensioned to accommodate an upper portion of a head of a person. Further in the illustrated example, an intersection 172 of the bottom surface 122 and the inwardly directed surface 162 establish an edge of a pocket 100. Further in the illustrated example, the pocket 100 has a first layer 106 and a second layer 108, with the first layer 106 being attached to the intersection 172 and defining a storage volume 112, and the second layer 108 preventing escape of the pocket's contents from the pocket 100 during use of the headworn device 140.

In the illustrated example, the storage volume 112 is adjacent the bottom surface 122 of the top 120 of the crown 150. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the second layer 108 of the pocket 100 is between the bottom surface 122 and the first layer 106 of the pocket 100.

In the illustrated example, the first layer 106 is attached to a majority of the intersection 172 of the bottom surface 122 of the top 120 of the crown 150 and the inwardly directed surface 162 of the wall 160 of the crown 150. Further in the illustrated example, a pocket opening 102 is formed along a portion of the intersection 172 where the first layer 106 is not attached to the intersection 172.

Further in the illustrated example, the second layer 108 is attached to the intersection 172 of the bottom surface 122 and the inwardly directed surface 162 along less than the majority of the intersection 172 but along the portion where the first layer 106 is not attached to the intersection 172.

Accordingly, for example, with the first layer 106 and second layer 108 in such a configuration, items passed through the pocket opening 102 and into the storage volume 112 can be stored in the storage volume 112, between the first layer 106 and the bottom surface 122.

Further accordingly, for example, with the first layer 106 and second layer 108 in such a configuration, during use of the headworn device 140, items stored in the storage volume 112 that may shift in position during such use are preferably prevented from passing back through the pocket opening 102 by the second layer 108 covering the opening 102.

By way of additional explanation of this illustrated example, the first layer 106 is attached at (or, e.g., adjacent) and along a majority of the perimeter of the bottom surface 122 of the top 120 of the crown 150, such that the attached portion forms the enclosed storage volume 112, and the unattached portion forms the pocket opening 102. Items can be placed through the pocket opening 102 to be stored in the storage volume 112, and removed from the storage volume 112 through the pocket opening 102.

Preferably, the first layer 106 is formed of a flexible material, such as for example fabric, and more preferably, of an elastic material that can for example be stretched by manual force from a resting smaller size to an expanded larger size and return to the resting smaller size (to the extent permitted by the pocket contents) upon release of the manual force.

Further by way of additional explanation of this illustrated example, the second layer 108 is attached at (or, e.g., adjacent) and along a minority of the perimeter of the bottom surface 122 of the top 120 of the crown 150, and the minority to which it is attached contains the minority of the perimeter to which the first layer 106 is not attached, so that the second layer 108 blocks the pocket opening 102. Preferably, as shown, the minority to which the second layer 108 is attached is larger than the minority to which the first layer 106 is not attached, so that a portion of the first layer 106 overlaps a portion of the second layer 108. As can be understood, the greater the overlap, the more protection is provided for preventing pocket contents from escaping the storage volume 112.

Preferably, the second layer 108 is formed of a flexible material, such as for example fabric, and more preferably, of an elastic material that can for example be stretched by manual force from a resting smaller size to an expanded larger size and return to the resting smaller size (to the extent permitted by the pocket contents) upon release of the manual force.

Accordingly, while not shown in the figures for the sake of understanding the configuration of the layers 106,108, it should be understood that during use of the headworn device 140, the gap between the first layer 106 and the second layer 108 (e.g., the gap near the pocket opening 102) will, due to gravity, movement forces, and other physics phenomena, be partially or completely closed (and therefore, e.g., prevent movement of the pocket contents therethrough) unless manual force is applied to expand the gap for the placing or removal of pocket contents. Depending on such physics phenomena and the size of the pocket contents, the pocket contents may fully or partially move into the space between the second layer 108 and the bottom surface 122, but will accordingly be prevented from moving into the gap and through the pocket opening 102, unless manual force is applied to cause or permit such movement.

It should be understood that one, more or all of the edges of the pocket 100 need not be formed along the intersection 172 (or any intersection) of the surfaces 122,162 (or of other surfaces), but rather can be attached to one of the surfaces (122,162, or other surfaces) without also being attached to another surface.

Accordingly, items such as, for example, cash, credit cards, identification cards and other valuables can be stored in the pocket 100 not only when the headworn device 140 is not being worn, but also when the headworn device 140 is being worn. Accordingly, items can be carried with the person even if the person is not wearing accessories or other articles of clothing that have pockets. Further, items can be carried without visible pockets and without added bulk.

For example, the items can be secured without using bulky or intrusive snaps, buckles, hook-and-loop features, or other mechanisms or devices. However, it should be understood that the present invention encompasses pockets with open configurations, pockets with closed configurations, and the securing of each configuration as needed, using any suitable mechanisms or devices such as, for example, without limitation, snaps, buckles, and hook-and-loop features.

Second Preferred Embodiment

FIGS. 6-11 illustrate an example of a second preferred embodiment of a headworn device of the present invention.

In the illustrated example, the headworn device 240 includes a crown 250 having a wall 260, and the wall 260 has an inwardly directed surface 262. Further in the illustrated example, the headworn device 240 includes a top 220 supported by the wall 260, and the top 220 has a bottom surface 222. Further in the illustrated example, the bottom surface 222 and the inwardly directed surface 262 provide a recess 270 dimensioned to accommodate an upper portion of a head of a person. Further in the illustrated example, an intersection 272 of the bottom surface 222 and the inwardly directed surface 262 establish an edge of a pocket 200. Further in the illustrated example, the pocket 200 has a first layer 206 and a second layer 208, with the first layer 206 being attached to the intersection 272 and defining a storage volume 212, and the second layer 208 preventing escape of the pocket's contents from the pocket 200 during use of the headworn device 240.

In the illustrated example, the storage volume 212 is adjacent the inwardly directed surface 262 of the wall 260 of the crown 250. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the first layer 206 of the pocket 200 is between the inwardly directed surface 262 and the second layer 208 of the pocket 200.

In the illustrated example, the first layer 206 is attached to a length of the intersection 272 of the bottom surface 222 and the inwardly directed surface 262. Further in the illustrated embodiment, a pocket opening 202 is formed along the inwardly directed surface 262. For example, to form the pocket opening 202, the first layer 206 can be also attached to a portion of the inwardly directed surface 262 spaced from the intersection (e.g., opposite and parallel to the intersection 272), and also attached along the inwardly directed surface 262 extending therebetween opposite the resulting pocket opening 202 (e.g., to form a closed end of the pocket 200). It should be understood that the first layer 206 can be additionally or alternatively attached to the inwardly directed surface 262 in other configurations so as to form the storage volume 212 adjacent the inwardly directed surface 262, and the pocket opening 202 along the inwardly directed surface 262.

Further in the illustrated embodiment, the second layer 208 is attached to the inwardly directed surface 262 over the pocket opening 202. For example, to cover the pocket opening 202, the second layer 208 can be attached parallel to the pocket opening 202 along the inwardly directed surface 262, and extend over a portion of the first layer 206. It should be understood that the second layer 208 can be additionally or alternatively attached to the inwardly directed surface 262 in other configurations so as to cover the pocket opening 202.

Accordingly, for example, with the first layer 206 and second layer 208 in such a configuration, items passed through the pocket opening 202 and into the storage volume 212 can be stored in the storage volume 212, between the first layer 206 and the inwardly directed surface 262.

Further accordingly, for example, with the first layer 206 and second layer 208 in such a configuration, during use of the headworn device 240, items stored in the storage volume 212 that may shift in position during such use are preferably prevented from passing back through the pocket opening 202 by the second layer 208 covering the pocket opening 202.

By way of additional explanation of this illustrated example, a top edge of the first layer 206 is attached at (or, e.g., adjacent) and along a length of the intersection 272, and a bottom edge of the first layer 206 is attached at (or, e.g., adjacent) and along a length of the bottom surface 222 opposite (and, e.g., preferably parallel to) that length of the intersection 272, so as to form top and bottom borders of the storage volume 212. Further, a back edge of the first layer 206 (e.g., preferably perpendicular to the top and bottom edges of the first layer 206) is attached at and along the inwardly directed surface 262, extending from the back end of the length of the intersection 272 and the back end of the length of the bottom surface 222 opposite that length of the intersection 272, so as to form a closed end of the storage volume 212. That is, the top edge, bottom edge, and back edge of the first layer 206 form the storage volume 212 with the unattached top edge of the first layer 206 forming the pocket opening 202. Items can be placed through the pocket opening 202 to be stored in the storage volume 212, and removed from the storage volume 212 through the pocket opening 202.

Preferably, the first layer 206 is formed of a flexible material, such as for example fabric, and more preferably, of an elastic material that can for example be stretched by manual force from a resting smaller size to an expanded larger size and return to the resting smaller size (to the extent permitted by the pocket contents) upon release of the manual force.

Further by way of additional explanation of this illustrated example, a front edge of the the second layer 208 is attached at and along the inwardly directed surface 262, extending from the front end of the length of the intersection 272 and the front end of the length of the bottom surface 222 opposite that length of the intersection 272, so as to cover the pocket opening 202. Further, the other edges of the second layer 208 are unattached, so that the second layer 208 can be temporarily moved (e.g., folded back) to permit placement or removal of pocket contents through the pocket opening 202. In other embodiments, top and bottom edges of the second layer 208 can be attached to provide additional security of the pocket contents. For example, the top edge of the second layer 208 can be attached to a front portion of the length of the intersection 272, and a bottom edge of the second layer can be attached to a front portion of the length of the inwardly directed surface 262 opposite that front portion of that length of the intersection 272, so that an attached portion of the second layer 208 overlaps a portion of the first layer 206. As can be understood, the greater the overlap, the more protection is provided for preventing pocket contents from escaping the storage volume 212.

Preferably, the second layer 208 is formed of a flexible material, such as for example fabric, and more preferably, of an elastic material that can for example be stretched by manual force from a resting smaller size to an expanded larger size and return to the resting smaller size (to the extent permitted by the pocket contents) upon release of the manual force.

Accordingly, while not shown in the figures for the sake of understanding the configuration of the layers 206,208, it should be understood that during use of the headworn device 240, the pocket opening 202 and the gap between the first layer 206 and the second layer 208 (e.g., the gap near the pocket opening 202) will, due to gravity, movement forces, and other physics phenomena, be partially or completely closed (and therefore, e.g., prevent movement of the pocket contents therethrough) unless manual force is applied to expand the pocket opening 202 and gap for the placing or removal of pocket contents.

It should be understood that one, more or all of the edges of the pocket 200 need not be formed along the intersection 272 (or any intersection) of the surfaces 222,262 (or of other surfaces), but rather can be attached to one of the surfaces (222,262, or other surfaces) without also being attached to another surface.

Further in the illustrated embodiment, the length of the intersection 272 to which the first layer 206 is attached sits above an ear of a person when the headworn device 240 is worn by the person. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the length of the intersection 272 to which the first layer 206 is attached extends along the inwardly directed surface 262 toward the back of the headworn device 240. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the pocket 200 sits above the ear of the person when the headworn device 240 is worn by the person. Preferably, the pocket 200 is slim and lightweight and does not place undesirable weight in this location. Further preferably, the pocket 200 is configured to fit to the unique shape of the wearer's head.

Further in the illustrated embodiment, the wall 260 has a wall opening 264 permitting access to the pocket opening 202 from an outwardly directed surface 266 of the wall 260. For example, the wall 260 has a slot through which items can be placed and removed through to store and retrieve them from the storage volume 212. It should be understood that the wall opening 264 can be made openable and closeable by, for example, one or more of a button, zipper, snap, or other suitable mechanism or device). Further, it should be understood that the wall opening 264 can be located on the wall 260 at another location (e.g., other than near the pocket opening 202) while still providing access to the storage volume 212. Accordingly, the pocket 200 can be easily accessed when the headworn device 240 is being worn as well as when the headworn device 240 is not being worn.

Further in the illustrated embodiment, the first layer 206 is spaced inwardly from the inwardly directed surface 262 not only to define the storage volume 212 but also to provide protection of the head of the person from objects protruding through the wall 260 to the inwardly directed surface 262. For example, and referring now also to FIGS. 15-17, a pin 380 can be placed through the wall 260,360 such that its pin backings 382,384 protrude from the inwardly directed surface 262,362, and the first layer 206,306 can provide protection by covering the pin backings 382,384. Accordingly, the pocket 200,300 protects hair and the scalp from being irritated or damaged by pin backings. This makes the headworn device 240,340 more comfortable.

Accordingly, items such as, for example, cash, credit cards, identification cards and other valuables can be stored in the pocket 200 not only when the headworn device 240 is not being worn, but also when the headworn device 240 is being worn. Accordingly, items can be carried with the person even if the person is not wearing accessories or other articles of clothing that have pockets. Further, items can be carried without visible pockets and without added bulk.

It should be understood that although the configuration of the first and second layers in which the second layer of the pocket is between the first layer of the pocket and the underlying surface is described and illustrated in connection with an example embodiment in which the underlying surface is the bottom surface of the top of the crown (see FIGS. 1-5 and accompanying descriptions), and the configuration of the first and second layers in which the first layer of the pocket is between the second layer of the pocket and the underlying surface is described and illustrated in connection with an example embodiment in which the underlying surface is the inwardly directed surface of the wall of the crown (see FIGS. 6-11 and accompanying descriptions), either configuration can be used on any underlying surface. That is, for example, the layer configuration in which the second layer of the pocket is between the first layer of the pocket and the underlying surface can be used where the underlying surface is the inwardly facing surface of the wall of the crown, and, for example, the layer configuration in which the first layer of the pocket is between the second layer of the pocket and the underlying surface can be used where the underlying surface is the bottom surface of the top of the crown.

It should further be understood that the present invention additionally contemplates and encompasses headworn device designs that are the same or similar to those described herein except that only a first layer of the pocket is used, and not a second layer. While not required, use of an elastic fabric or structure for the first layer in such designs may be particularly effective because the elastic fabric or structure can be dimensioned and/or otherwise configured to hold the pocket contents tightly against the underlying surface (e.g., the bottom surface of the top of the crown, or the inwardly directed surface of the wall of the crown) due to the inherent compressive forces of the elastic fabric or structure.

Additional Features

Referring now to FIGS. 12-17, images depicting an example of a third preferred embodiment of a headworn device of the present invention show certain features directed to achieving one or more of the following: temperature maintenance, ventilation provision, and sun protection.

In the depicted example, the headworn device 340 includes components substantially similar to those of the example of the second preferred embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6-11, but numbered in the 300s instead of the 200s. It should be understood that the temperature maintenance, ventilation provision, and sun protection features discussed in connection with the depicted example of the third preferred embodiment can be applied for use with any embodiment of the present invention, including but not limited to the first and second preferred embodiments discussed above.

As to the aforementioned temperature maintenance feature, in the depicted example, the crown 350 has a light pigment that maintains a cool (or cooler) temperature in intense sun conditions. For example, the crown 550 is formed from hemp having a naturally light pigment. Lighter colored objects emit more light, and darker colored objects absorb more light. The more light that is absorbed, the more the material heats up when it is exposed to light (e.g., dark materials heat more quickly than light materials if exposed to the sun). Natural hemp fiber has a light pigment, which emits more light than a darker material and thus maintains a low (or lower) temperature. Therefore, the headworn device 340 in the depicted example stays cool in high sun conditions, and accordingly keeps the wearer's head at a comfortable (or more comfortable) temperature.

As to the aforementioned ventilation provision feature, in the depicted example, the top 320 of the crown 350 and the wall 360 of the crown 350 are formed with a stitching count that provides ventilation. For example, the stitching count can be inclusively between 10 and 119 stitches per square inch, and is preferably inclusively between 10 and 65 stitches per square inch. These stitching counts facilitate ventilation and breathability, resulting in the headworn device 340 in the depicted example being able to maintain a low (or lower) temperature in high heat and intense sun.

As to the aforementioned sun protection feature, in the depicted example, the headworn device 340 includes a brim 330 extending radially from a base of the crown 350, and the brim 330 is formed with a stitching count that provides sun protection. For example, the stitching count can be inclusively between 120 and 1000 stitches per square inch. These stitching counts block 30-100% of ultraviolet rays from the sun, resulting in the headworn device 340 in the depicted example being able to protect the wearer's head, ears and neck. In some embodiments of the headworn device of the present invention, the brim of the headworn device has more than one layer, and each layer has a different stitching count. For example, a first layer of the brim can have a stitching count inclusively between 120 and 1000 stitches per square inch, to provide sun protection, while a second layer of the brim (e.g., adjacent the first) can have a stitching count inclusively between 10 and 119 stitches per square inch, and preferably inclusively between 10 and 65 stitches per square inch, to facilitate ventilation and breathability. Preferably, the position of the pocket 300, above an ear of a person when the headworn device 340 is worn by the person and extending along the inwardly directed surface 362 toward the back of the headworn device 340, does not interfere with the the sun protection performance of the brim 330. It should be understood that instead of a brim extending from the entire perimeter of the crown 350, the sun protection feature of the present invention can include a visor, flap, or other feature that extends from less than the entire perimeter of the crown 350.

Preferred Methods of Manufacturing

The present invention provides a method of manufacturing headworn devices with integrated storage features. It should be understood that the present invention encompasses any method of manufacturing the headworn devices, such as for example without limitation hand manufacture, machine manufacture, sewing, stitching, forming, pressing, molding, and the like, or any combination thereof. It should further be understood that the headworn devices can be formed from any suitable materials, including but not limited to those described herein. It should further be understood that any aspect of the headworn devices can be of any suitable dimension, and that the dimensions are not limited to those described or illustrated herein.

First Preferred Method

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of a first preferred embodiment of a method of manufacturing a headworn device of the present invention.

In the illustrated embodiment, the method 400 includes a method of manufacturing a headworn device, such as for example a hat, with an integrated storage feature, such as for example a pocket. Discussion of the method 400 below will, for example purposely only, reference the example of the first preferred embodiment of the headworn device 140 illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 above.

Further in the illustrated example of the first preferred embodiment of the method of the present invention, the method 400 includes forming a crown 150 having a wall 160 (S410), the wall 160 having an inwardly directed surface 162. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the method 400 includes forming a top 120 supported by the wall 160 (S420), the top 120 having a bottom surface 122. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the bottom surface 122 and the inwardly directed surface 162 provide a recess 170 dimensioned to accommodate an upper portion of a head of a person. Further in the illustrated embodiment, an intersection 172 of the bottom surface 122 and the inwardly directed surface 162 establish an edge of a pocket 100. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the pocket 100 has a first layer 106 and a second layer 108, with the first layer 106 being attached to the intersection 172 and defining a storage volume 112, and the second layer 108 preventing escape of the pocket's contents from the pocket 100 during use of the headworn device 140.

It should be understood that one, more or all of the edges of the pocket 100 need not be formed along the intersection 172 (or any intersection) of the surfaces 122,162 (or other surfaces), but rather can be attached to one of the surfaces (122,162, or other surfaces) without also being attached to another surface.

Second Preferred Method

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a second preferred embodiment of a method of manufacturing a headworn device of the present invention.

In the illustrated embodiment, the method 500 includes a method of manufacturing a headworn device, such as for example a hat, with an integrated storage feature, such as for example a pocket. Discussion of the method 500 below will, for example purposely only, reference the example of the second preferred embodiment of the headworn device 240 illustrated in FIGS. 6-11 above.

Further in the illustrated example of the second preferred embodiment of the method of the present invention, the method 500 includes forming a crown 250 having a wall 260 (S510), the wall 260 having an inwardly directed surface 262. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the method 500 includes forming a top 220 supported by the wall 260 (S520), the top 220 having a bottom surface 222. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the bottom surface 222 and the inwardly directed surface 262 provide a recess 270 dimensioned to accommodate an upper portion of a head of a person. Further in the illustrated embodiment, an intersection 272 of the bottom surface 222 and the inwardly directed surface 262 establish an edge of a pocket 200. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the pocket 200 has a first layer 206 and a second layer 208, with the first layer 106 being attached to the intersection 272 and defining a storage volume 212, and the second layer 208 preventing escape of the pocket's contents from the pocket 200 during use of the headworn device 240.

In the illustrated example, the storage volume 212 is adjacent the inwardly directed surface 262 of the wall 260 of the crown 250. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the first layer 206 of the pocket 200 is between the second layer 208 of the pocket 200 and the inwardly directed surface 262 of the wall 260 of the crown 250.

Accordingly, for example, with the first layer 206 and the second layer 208 in such a configuration, items passed through the pocket opening 202 and into the storage volume 212 can be stored in the storage volume 212, between the first layer 206 and the inwardly directed surface 262.

Further accordingly, for example, with the first layer 206 and the second layer 208 in such a configuration, during use of the headworn device 240, items stored in the storage volume 212 that may shift in position during such use are preferably prevented from passing back through the pocket opening 202 by the second layer 208 covering the pocket opening 202.

It should be understood that one, more or all of the edges of the pocket 200 need not be formed along the intersection 272 (or any intersection) of the surfaces 222,262 (or of other surfaces), but rather can be attached to one of the surfaces (222,262 or other surfaces) without also being attached to another surface.

Accordingly, items can be secured without using bulky or intrusive snaps, buckles, hook-and-loop features, or other mechanisms or devices. However, it should be understood that the present invention encompasses pockets with open configurations, pockets with closed configurations, and the securing of each configuration as needed, using any suitable mechanisms or devices such as, for example, without limitation, snaps, buckles, and hook-and-loop features.

Manufacturing with Additional Features

Preferably, the method of manufacturing includes forming the headworn device with one or more features directed to achieving one or more of the following: temperature maintenance, ventilation provision, and sun protection. Discussion of these aspects of the method will, for example purposely only, reference the example of the third preferred embodiment of the headworn device 340 illustrated in FIGS. 12-18 above.

As to the aforementioned temperature maintenance feature, forming the crown 350 preferably includes forming the crown 350 with a light pigment that maintains a cool (or cooler) temperature in intense sun conditions. For example, the crown 550 is formed from hemp having a naturally light pigment. Lighter colored objects emit more light, and darker colored objects absorb more light. The more light that is absorbed, the more the material heats up when it is exposed to light (e.g., dark materials heat more quickly than light materials if exposed to the sun). Natural hemp fiber has a light pigment, which emits more light than a darker material and thus maintains a low (or lower) temperature. Therefore, the headworn device 340 in the depicted example stays cool in high sun conditions, and accordingly keeps the wearer's head at a comfortable (or more comfortable) temperature.

As to the aforementioned ventilation provision feature, forming the crown 350 and the top 320 includes forming the top 320 of the crown 350 and the wall 360 of the crown 350 with a stitching count that provides ventilation. For example, the stitching count can be inclusively between 10 and 119 stitches per square inch, and is preferably inclusively between 10 and 65 stitches per square inch. These stitching counts facilitate ventilation and breathability, resulting in the headworn device 340 in the depicted example being able to maintain a low (or lower) temperature in high heat and intense sun.

As to the aforementioned sun protection feature, in the depicted example, forming the crown 350 includes forming a brim 330 extending radially from a base of the crown 350, and the brim 330 is formed with a stitching count that provides sun protection. For example, the stitching count can be inclusively between 120 and 1000 stitches per square inch. These stitching counts block 30-100% of ultraviolet rays from the sun, resulting in the headworn device 340 in the depicted example being able to protect the wearer's head, ears and neck. In some embodiments of the headworn device of the present invention, the brim of the headworn device has more than one layer, and each layer has a different stitching count. For example, a first layer of the brim can have a stitching count inclusively between 120 and 1000 stitches per square inch, to provide sun protection, while a second layer of the brim (e.g., adjacent the first) can have a stitching count inclusively between 10 and 119 stitches per square inch, and preferably inclusively between 10 and 65 stitches per square inch, to facilitate ventilation and breathability. Preferably, the position of the pocket 300, above an ear of a person when the headworn device 340 is worn by the person and extending along the inwardly directed surface 362 toward the back of the headworn device 340, does not interfere with the the sun protection performance of the brim 330. It should be understood that instead of a brim extending from the entire perimeter of the crown 350, the sun protection feature of the present invention can include a visor, flap, or other feature that extends from less than the entire perimeter of the crown 350.

While the present general inventive concept has been illustrated by description of several example embodiments, and while the illustrative embodiments have been described in detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the general inventive concept to such descriptions and illustrations. Instead, the descriptions, drawings, and claims herein are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive, and additional embodiments will readily appear to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description and drawings. Additional modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of applicant's general inventive concept.

HEADWORN DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED STORAGE FEATURES

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