Item Of Headwear
Patent No. US11372252 (titled "Item Of Headwear") was filed by Newtonoid Technologies Llc on Jun 15, 2020.
What is this patent about?
’252 is related to the field of wearable technology, specifically items of headwear such as headbands and hats. The patent addresses the problem of discomfort and limited functionality in existing headwear. Traditional hats and headbands often lack features that enhance user experience, such as cushioning or integrated electronic capabilities. The invention aims to provide a more versatile and comfortable headwear solution.
The underlying idea behind ’252 is to integrate an inflatable bladder into a headband or hat, providing cushioning and support. This bladder can be selectively inflated to adjust the fit and comfort of the headwear. Furthermore, the invention incorporates an information portal with input/output devices, a processor, and a networking device, enabling the headwear to function as a platform for various electronic applications.
The claims of ’252 focus on a wearable apparatus comprising a headband with an inflatable bladder positioned directly against the user's forehead. The bladder is selectively inflatable, providing a customizable fit. Some claims specify that the bladder rests directly against the user's head without any intervening material. Other claims include an input device, such as a pump , to control the inflation of the bladder.
In practice, the inflatable bladder can be used to provide a comfortable and secure fit for the headwear. The input device, such as a pump, allows the user to easily adjust the inflation level to their preference. The information portal can be used to integrate various electronic functionalities into the headwear, such as projecting information onto eyewear or monitoring the user's health through biosensors. The bladder can also be used therapeutically, applying pressure to relieve headaches.
The invention differentiates itself from prior approaches by combining the comfort of an inflatable bladder with the functionality of an information portal. Unlike traditional hats and headbands, ’252 provides a customizable fit and integrated electronic capabilities. The direct contact of the bladder with the user's head ensures optimal comfort and support. The integration of sensors and communication devices allows the headwear to function as a wearable computing platform , providing a range of applications and benefits to the user.
How does this patent fit in bigger picture?
Technical landscape at the time
In the mid-2010s when ’252 was filed, headwear such as hats and headbands were at a time when they were typically implemented using traditional materials and designs, when systems commonly relied on manual adjustment mechanisms rather than automated or sensor-driven controls, and when hardware or software constraints made integrating complex electronic functionalities non-trivial.
Novelty and Inventive Step
Claims 1-2 and 6-20 were pending. Claims 1-2 and 6-20 were rejected for double patenting and obviousness. Applicant's arguments were considered, but the rejections were maintained. The action was made final.
Claims
This patent includes 17 claims, with independent claims 1, 10, and 14. The independent claims generally focus on wearable headwear, such as headbands or hats, incorporating an inflatable bladder positioned directly against the user's forehead or head. The dependent claims generally add specific features, limitations, or functionalities to the headwear described in the independent claims, such as sealability, human interface devices, output devices like lights, and input devices.
Key Claim Terms New
Definitions of key terms used in the patent claims.
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Date
Description
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US11372252
- Application Number
- US16902217
- Filing Date
- Jun 15, 2020
- Status
- Granted
- Expiry Date
- Jan 17, 2037
- External Links
- Slate, USPTO, Google Patents