Eyeglass frame including shape-memory elements
AssigneeCVI/Beta Ventures, Inc.
InventorsRobert B. Zider, John F. Krumme
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Abstract
Eyeglass frames fabricated from shape-memory alloys which have optimized elasticity properties which exhibit a combination of shape-memory and elastic properties, which utilize the shape-memory property of these alloys in fastening elements, or which utilize the flexibility and fatigue resistance of the martensite state of the alloys as a hinge element are disclosed.
Claims8
An eyeglass frame having at least a portion thereof fabricated from nickel-titanium based shape-memory alloy, said portion being in the work-hardened pseudoelastic metallurgical state, said portion having been subjected to work-hardening and having a low effective elastic modulus giving a soft, springy feel, said portion having greater than 3% elasticity over a temperature range from -20.degree. C. to +40.degree. C.
An eyeglass frame having at least a portion thereof fabricated from nickel-titanium based shape-memory alloy, said portion being in the work-hardened and heat-treated condition, said portion having been subjected to at least 30% work-hardening followed by a heat-treatment at a temperature not exceeding 400.degree. C. for not less than one hour and having a minimum of 3% heat-recoverable shape-memory, a yield strength greater than 30,000 psi and at least 3% elasticity.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.