Flexon patent--expiring?

**harry888** · 10-22-2005, 08:05 PM

I seem to remember seeing something about the flexon patent expiring this september, so expected a wave of flexible frames from frame companies this Oct.

Is my timeline off, or am I really misinformed? Or is the flexon patent not a big deal?

Thanks,

Harry

**Mikef** · 10-22-2005, 08:36 PM

Already expired!

Other vendors have it out already!

I started selling it last week!

**PAkev** · 10-22-2005, 10:28 PM

Also check the pharmacy section of Wal-Mart. They're selling memory metal readers for $19.99.

Since there are only select places to adjust the frame, Flexon is not always my "go to" frame when a good fit is critical.

From my experience, Flexon makes a good first impression but also becomes an excuse to not take responsibility for reasonable care for a persons eyewear.

Finally, not a whole lot that can be done with style options in an era of frame material styles going against the grain of basic metal designs.

**Johns** · 10-22-2005, 11:47 PM

Only some of the patents have expired on the Flexon frames. Some of the manufacturing processes are patented, and not due to expire for some time. Also, the technique in which they are coated/plated is also patented.

As far as selling memory metals, so long as you weren't wholesaling them, you could get them direct since 1994. We did.

**Happylady** · 10-23-2005, 10:08 AM

Am I the only one that isn't crazy about Flexon frames? I hate to adjust them and they certainly can break. I perfer a quality spring hindged frame.

**QDO1** · 10-24-2005, 06:38 AM

Originally Posted by Happylady

Am I the only one that isn't crazy about Flexon frames? I hate to adjust them and they certainly can break. I perfer a quality spring hindged frame.

I think Flexon has a place, just like a well sprung frame. Back when Flexon first released its frames, it was unique in the market, and in one sense re-wrote some the rules interms of frame design philosophy - a very strong rim supported with a springy bridge and sides. I dont dispense much flexon nowadays, but occasionally I do the odd one (recently a Flexon 10, 61 eye for a clay pidgeon shooter)

Another inovation was the way they change the mix of the alloy down the sides, to allow you to adjust the end part only

You can break a Flexon frame, and if you order the side length wrong they are a female dog to adjust, but overall, an excellent product