BAND HAVING STRETCHABLE POCKET

Abstract

A silicone band with a pocket is provided. The silicone band comprises a preferably hidden pocket in which the entrance to the pocket remains closed at rest. An entrance to the pocket is opened when the band is stretched and then is closed by returning the band to its resting position. The hidden pocket is designed to securely hold items and allow for a quick insertion and removal of the items through the pocket entrance.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a band to be worn on a limb, torso, neck, or head of a user, and, more specifically, to a band comprising a preferably hidden pocket designed to securely hold items while the user engages in a variety of activities.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

People often engage in activities where it is undesirable to carry objects like a wallet or set of keys. The act of carrying these belongings often restricts a person's movement and requires some level of attention and responsibility to prevent these items from releasing, falling out, becoming lost, or being stolen. In general, a clothing pocket is used to carry the aforementioned items and/or many other items, but pockets commonly have a large opening from which items may fall out when a person assumes a sitting or lying position or potentially during vigorous activity. People also use a band with a pouch to be worn around a user's waist (e.g., a “fanny pack”) to carry items while engaging in activities where it is desirable to be hands-free such as during exercise or swimming

A band with a pocket is the proposed solution for individuals who want access to items like keys, money and other small objects without the burden typically associated with carrying them in a traditional manner.

Bands with pockets worn on the limbs of people have been in existence for many years and serve numerous functions. For instance, bands have been used to identify the wearer and provide vital information to others, provide information to the wearer through a clock or other electronic device, increase the visibility of the wearer, to hold objects, and as a fashionable ornament. Nevertheless, there are deficiencies in this general area in that no band has been sufficiently designed to combine any of these functions with an ability to keep contents secure within the pocket over an extended period of time and under various conditions. In addition, none of the previous bands have been satisfactorily designed to keep contents within a pocket hidden from view and constructed out of materials that are long-lasting and resistant to wear and tear.

The prior art bands include methods of enclosure comprising closure mechanisms that include elements that break, wear out, or can be lost if or when separated into pieces. A majority of the prior art contains threaded seams which can come apart and are more expensive and time consuming to manufacture. They also are designed in a manner that creates an inefficient way of inserting, removing and/or securely holding the pocket contents under a variety of conditions. Even if the components are working properly the user has to make sure that the closure mechanism is properly sealed which leaves room for human error. Furthermore, some of the prior art causes wear and tear on the material of the pouch, closure mechanism, and even the band itself, especially while inserting and removing contents from the pouch as well as when adjustments to the size of the band are made.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,393,336 to Sloot discloses an elastic band for carrying articles with an adjustable strap. Sloot uses a mixture of fabric, elastic, a hook and loop fastening system, and methods to attach two or more different materials. A pocket is created from attaching layers of differing materials creating a space and also methods to attach the differing materials to attach 3 of 4 sides of the pocket. An appliqué´is also applied to the top of the band as a means of adding reflective materials, text, and logos. The appliqué´can be removed intentionally if the item is stolen and also is subject to coming loose from the band through a breakdown of the seam from attaching two different materials. An attached appliqué´is also a limited surface where text, images, and other materials can be applied as opposed to anywhere on the band or pocket.

The hook at loop closure system used in U.S. Pat. No. 7,393,336 has shortcomings when selecting the ideal method of securing contents within a pocket. The hook and loop fastening system can wear out as the hooks break, warp, and are compromised from use. The hooks also attract debris, hair, dirt, and other particles that can create a less effective closure system. The loops can become flattened, frayed, broken and less effective over time as well. Additionally, many claim the hook and loop system to be less effective when used in water. The loop side and fabric the hook and loop is attached to is more absorbent of water and sweat which will likely encourage mold and mildew if not cleaned often. Additionally, the hook and loop closure system leaves more room for human error if not attached properly as might commonly occur if a child is using the product.

The pocket entrance in U.S. Pat. No. 7,393,336 is also facing outward on the band which increases the likelihood of losing the pocket contents if the closure system comes loose by either wearing out, centrifugal force of the pocket contents pushing against the opening, or brushing up against an external surface.

The pocket entrance is placed at one of the four edges of the pocket in U.S. Pat. No. 7,393,336. As a result, the pocket will not be able to hold contents longer than the distance from the entrance to the opposite edge of the pocket because the contents would protrude though the entrance.

Pat. No. U.S. Pat. No. 7,393,336 also has numerous places where differing materials (e.g., including the hook and loop fastening system) must be attached. This creates an opportunity for the seams to come apart by wearing out over time, coming in contact with an outside source, washing the band, or other possibilities.

Pat. No. U.S. Pat. No. 7,393,336 also is more difficult to attach without assistance because when the wearer is attaching it to a wrist, only one hand is available. Attaching a hook and loop fastening system with one hand while balancing the band on a wrist can be challenging especially for a child.

Many other patents include carrying articles through means of a band with a pocket such as U.S. Pat. No. 5,671,481 to Giard, U.S. Pat. No. 6,443,341 to Riamann, U.S. Pat. No. 6,227,424 to Roegner, U.S. Pat. No. 5,499,468 to Henry, U.S. Pat. No. 5,173,968 to Fox, U.S. Patent 5,581,924 to Peterson, U.S. Pat. No. 5,802,876 to Miller. However, all these designs have disadvantages of creating pockets that overlap or are very complex. Many involve combining multiple materials (e.g., relatively expensive components like zippers, buttons, clasps, and other fasteners). Closure mechanisms such as zippers and buttons are subject to breaking and coming apart from the main portion of the band. These components additionally increase the weight and bulkiness of the invention which may inconvenience and frustrate the wearer. Many of these components do not fare well in water and sweat, and typically eventually rust or attract mildew and mold.

Much of the prior art mentioned above do not have a safeguard to prevent damage to the materials of the band when items are repetitively inserted and removed from the pocket. These prior art bands also do not stretch to compensate for articles that are larger than the at-rest size of the pocket. They also include transparency to pocket contents which may increase the likelihood of theft.

What is desired, therefore, is a band to be worn by a user that comprises elastic material, is adjustable by stretching, allows the user to easily conceal contents within the pocket, is sweat-proof and water-proof, is easy to clean, permits text and images to be applied anywhere on the surfaces of the band including the pocket, is of minimal size and weight, may be made out of various materials, securely encloses pocket contents, safeguards against the tearing of stress points on the band, and/or may be manufactured quickly and inexpensively.

These and other advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the detailed description of the invention hereinbelow.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a band capable of substantially surrounding a limb, neck, or head of a user. The band comprises a main portion capable of substantially surrounding a limb, neck, or head of a user. The band also comprises a pocket provided within the main portion, wherein the pocket includes a slit whereby an entrance to an interior of the pocket is provided, wherein the pocket is capable of removably storing at least one item placed within the interior of the pocket via the slit, and wherein at least a portion of the pocket that includes the slit is stretchable. The slit may comprise a substantially straight line extending between end portions thereof or may comprise a curved line extending between end portions thereof. The slit may be substantially parallel to two opposing edges of the pocket. The slit is preferable located between the two opposing edges of the pocket such that the slit is located a predetermined distance from either of the two opposing edges of the pocket.

In a preferred embodiment, the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the length of the pocket.

In another preferred embodiment, the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the width of the pocket.

In another preferred embodiment, the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the depth of the pocket.

The slit preferably comprises a substantially circular opening at at least one end portion thereof.

The slit is preferably located on a proximal surface of the band and is preferably configured to be positioned immediately adjacent the limb, neck, or head of the user, whereby the limb, neck, or head of the user covers the slit such that the opening is blocked.

The interior of the pocket is preferably capable of being only accessible by the user when the slit is in a stretched state.

In one embodiment, the pocket consists substantially of silicone.

In one embodiment, the slit is located on a proximal surface of the pocket and wraps around to an adjacent side of the pocket. The proximal surface of the pocket is preferably substantially perpendicular to the adjacent side of the pocket.

In one embodiment, the at least one item may be selected from the group consisting of a magnet, light, identification chip, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of a microchip, keyless entry chip, heart-rate monitor, hologram, stone, mineral, radio, video display, GPS device, Bluetooth device, and combinations thereof.

The pocket may include a window that is capable of allowing the at least one item to be viewable by a user of the band. The window may be at a surface of the pocket opposite the slit.

In another embodiment, the main portion is capable of substantially surrounding a torso of a user, wherein the slit is configured to be positioned immediately adjacent the torso of the user, whereby the torso of the user covers the slit such that the opening is blocked.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the present invention to be clearly understood and readily practiced, the present invention will be described in conjunction with the following figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a stretchable silicone band including a pocket, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. A magnified close-up of the pocket shows how the pocket may accommodate objects within. The drawing illustrates that if an object like a key or dollar bill was put in the pocket, it would reach the ends of the pocket. But the entrance would not be in a location such that the key or bill could escape without deliberate manipulation of the stretchable entrance.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the defined pocket within the band shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3A and 3B depict an embodiment where the band does not need to be solid to hold the pocket to the wrist. Two small straps attach the pocket to the wrist or other body part, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate an embodiment where the pocket or other portions of the band may be in a shape having non-parallel sides or a non-parallel cross-section, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The specific band in FIGS. 4A and 4B has sides having a profile including triangular shapes.

FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of the band made entirely of one material (e.g., silicone) save for the watch clasp which may comprise any material such as metal or plastic, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The band size may be adjustable.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment that depicts the entrance into the pocket which may be wrapped around the sides of the band to increase the distance that the pocket may be opened, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, this embodiment shows that there may be more than one entrance to the pocket. As such, two slits are illustrated.

FIG. 7 illustrates a magnified close-up of how the slit is configured to form an entrance into the pocket. The ends of the slit are formed in a circular formation so that when stress is put on this portion of the band, it is more evenly distributed around the circular formation rather than a single point, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate how the band material may be embossed, debossed, and printed on at numerous locations.

FIG. 9 illustrates the band including two pockets and a watch face located within one pocket and at a predetermined distance from the other pocket, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The band including the pockets is preferably made of silicone or silicone-type stretchable material. The watch face may be located in a pocket and visible via either the inner or outer surface of the band (i.e., via an opening or a visually transparent or non-opaque window). The opening may also be referred to as a window. As another alternative, the watch face may be utilized or held in a typical manner (i.e., not within a pocket) while a separately located pocket may hold any suitable item. As a further alternative, the watch face may be visible only by removing it from a pocket. The outer surface of the band is the preferred place for the watch face to be seen as the arrow indicates. FIG. 9 also depicts how grooves and patterns may be embossed or etched into the band to increase flexibility, stretchability, and/or breathability on the skin, as well as for ornamental/style purposes.

FIG. 10 illustrates the band including a pocket with cut-outs on the top and sides of the pocket, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The larger cut-out in the top of the pocket serves as a window to view the items within or as an access point to control a touch-screen device such as a watch face as shown. The two smaller cut-outs on the side allow, for example, for the item's buttons to protrude from the pocket and therefore are more easily accessed by the wearer to control the item within the pocket. The slit or pocket entrance is not shown (i.e., in phantom) for simplicity purposes. The top of the pocket also features two embossed circles that denote where additional buttons are positioned to control the item within the pocket.

FIG. 11 is similar to FIG. 7, except FIG. 11 illustrates the slit or pocket entrance made in a shape which includes a curved line, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates exemplary dimensions of the band shown in FIG. 1. The width of the pocket is approximately 1.0 inch. The length of the pocket is approximately 2.25 inches. The thickness of the band (i.e., in areas distant from the pocket) is approximately 0.1 inch. The thickness of the band that includes the pocket is approximately 0.3 inch. The circumference of the overall band is approximately 7.0 inches.

FIG. 13 illustrates the slit or pocket entrance extending in a length-wise direction, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the present invention may have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating, for purposes of clarity, other elements found in a typical band. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other elements may be desirable and/or required in order to implement the present invention. However, because such elements are well known in the art, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, a discussion of such elements is not provided herein. It is also to be understood that the drawings included herewith only provide diagrammatic representations of the presently preferred structures of the present invention and that structures falling within the scope of the present invention may include structures different than those shown in the drawings. Reference will now be made to the drawings wherein like structures are provided with like reference designations.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a user with a band for any of various purposes such as identification purposes, safety purposes, or ornamental purposes. The band preferably stretches to fit different limb sizes or body parts. The pocket allows for the interchanging of pocket items/contents quickly, while concealing and securely holding small objects during various activities or of course during no activity.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the band is designed to have a consistently smooth surface profile on its exterior surface and, in appearance, may look like a common gel bracelet that does not contain a pocket. The common gel bracelet is commonly referred to as an “awareness bracelet” that may carry a debossed, embossed, or printed message on it demonstrating support for, for example, charities affiliated with cancers such as breast cancer.

The most popular location to wear the band is around the wrist. Wrists are more flat on the top and bottom and circular on the sides rather than completely circular. Therefore the desired shape of the band is flatter at the top where the pocket is preferably located and also at the opposing bottom. If the wearer prefers a loose fitting feel around the wrist without tension on the band or against the wrist, the aforementioned desired shape will be less likely to spin around the wrist while wearing the band. For those who wear the band to fit more tightly around the wrist or limb, the material of the band will stretch to fit a variety of limb sizes and contour to the shape of the limb keeping it in place.

In a preferred embodiment, the entrance to the hidden pocket within the band in the present application is designed to be in a substantially closed configuration (see, for example, FIG. 1) when the band is at rest or without tension. To open the pocket, the band may optionally be rolled inside out so that the pocket opening is temporarily on the outside to allow the wearer better visibility and easier access to the slit (i.e., entrance or pocket opening). Whether the band is rolled inside out or not, the pocket is ultimately opened by deliberately stretching the material at the site of the slit/entrance in order to insert or remove items. Once the items are inserted or removed, the tension on the band may be removed and, if needed, the band may be quickly returned into the desired position with the pocket opening on the inside.

When the user is wearing the band snugly around the limb or other body part, a minimal amount of tension throughout the band will not be great enough to cause the pocket entrance to open enough where the contents may fall out unintentionally. If the form-fitting band is stretched to fit a much larger limb, the entrance of the pocket, due to its placement on the inside or inner/interior surface of the band, will be pressed flush against the limb which prevents the contents from escaping unintentionally. In general, if there is tension on the band of any kind from being worn on a limb, it will mean the pocket opening is flush against the limb completely and preferably substantially sealing the pocket and preventing its contents from coming out unintentionally even under vigorous activity. In this scenario, it is preferable to not have any openings on the opposite outer surface of the band in the vicinity of the pocket.

FIG. 1 shows a stretchable silicone band 100 including a main portion 110 having a pocket 140 within, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. A magnified close-up of the pocket shows how the pocket may accommodate objects within. The drawing illustrates that if an object like a key 190 or dollar bill 191 was put in the pocket, it would reach the ends/sides 141, 142 of the pocket. But the slit/entrance 150 would not be in a location such that the key or bill could escape without deliberate manipulation of the stretchable entrance. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the defined pocket 140 within the band 100 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 also illustrates a magnified close-up 130 surrounding the pocket 140. The pocket has lower and upper ends/sides 144, 143, respectively

In an exemplary embodiment where the slit extends in a width-wise direction (see, for example, FIG. 12 for dimensional direction indications), the placement of the entrance slit of the pocket is roughly ⅘ towards one end of the pocket on the underside of the band. The idea behind the slit placement in this position, as opposed to the end of the pocket, is when an item fills the entire length of the pocket it will not be applying pressure or force to the entrance. Instead, an intentional stretching of the material at the pocket opening is necessary to remove the contents. For example, a key in a resting position in the pocket does not risk an unintentional exit out of the pocket end as a result of, for example, centrifugal or direct force. Rather, a deliberate stretching of the material at the site of the pocket opening must be performed to remove the key. Items that are smaller than the length of the pocket, once inserted, will pass over the opening when the slit is in the described place and preferably slide into a sealed corner of the pocket without fear of removal via the slit.

In one embodiment, a slit substantially the width of the band serves as the entrance into the underside of the pocket. Preferably, the two end points of the slit are rounded. This design is intended to serve two purposes. First, the circular ends displace the pressure from being put on an isolated point on the band to a more evenly distributed pressure on a larger surface area. The circular cuts make the material much more tear resistant over a prolonged period of use as the user repeatedly stretches the slit to insert and remove items. This is an especially important feature when inserting items that are larger than the size of the pocket at rest and there is a greater force of pressure being exerted on the ends of the slit. Second, the distance that the pocket entrance may be stretched is increased making it easier and quicker to insert and remove items. FIG. 7 illustrates a magnified close-up 730 of how the slit 750 is configured to form an entrance into the pocket 740 of band 700. The end portions 750e of the slit 750 are formed in a circular formation so that when stress is put on this portion of the band, it is more evenly distributed around the circular formation rather than a single point, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 3A and 3B depict an embodiment where the band 300 does not need to be solid to hold the pocket to the wrist. Two small straps 310s of the main portion 310 attach the pocket 340 to the wrist or other body part, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Slit 350 is shown in FIG. 3B.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate an embodiment where the pocket 440 or other portions of the band 400 may be in a shape having non-parallel sides or a non-parallel cross-section, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The specific band in FIGS. 4A and 4B has sides 413 having a profile including triangular shapes. The main portion 410 and slit 450 of the band 400 are indicated.

FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of the band 500 made entirely of one material (e.g., silicone) save for the watch clasp 522 which may comprise any material such as metal or plastic, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The band size may be adjustable. The main portion 510, pocket 540, and slit 550 of the band 500 are indicated.

In another embodiment the slit serving as the entrance into the pocket may be on the bottom or underside of the pocket and wrap around the sides of the pocket so that the pocket opening may be opened an even greater distance.

In another embodiment, the slit serving as the entrance into the pocket may be on any surface of the pocket and may optionally wrap around to any other side or sides of the pocket.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment that depicts the entrance 651 into the pocket 640 which may be wrapped around the sides of the band (via extended slit portions 652, 653) to increase the distance that the pocket may be opened, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, this embodiment shows that there may be more than one entrance to the pocket. As such, two slits 650, 651 (as well as main portion 610) are illustrated.

In another embodiment, the pocket entrance may alternatively be positioned on the outside or outer/exterior surface of the band. This design is not as preferred to the opening on the inside of the band because it slightly increases the chances of losing the pocket contents by not having the limb block the opening. Having the pocket on the outside of the band will also increase the visibility of the pocket and tip-off would-be criminals that there could be valuable contents inside.

Another object of the invention is the pocket serves as a casing to house a variety of interchangeable accessories/items that give the band a multitude of functions. A strong magnet could be inserted into the pocket so that construction workers could hold nails and screws on the external surface of the band while keeping their hands free. A magnet could have other purposes such as for circulatory issues. An LED light or small strobe light could be inserted into the band to increase visibility for safety or recreational reasons. A radio frequency chip could be inserted into the band to track an individual for safety reasons. A microchip, keyless entry chip, heart-rate monitor, hologram, stone, mineral, small radio, GPS device, and/or Bluetooth device could be inserted into this casing to take on new/other functions. Additionally, other materials could be inserted into the band and/or specifically the pocket, or infused into the band and/or specifically the pocket that may, for example, increase the wearer's blood circulation, balance, or provide some other health benefit to the user.

In one embodiment the pocket may include an opening in any desired shape (i.e., in addition to an entrance slit) that serves as a window to view part or all of the item inside. The window may optionally be replaced or covered with a optically clear material (e.g. vinyl), translucent material or some other material so that the internal items in the pocket may be visible to the wearer. In any of these scenarios, a bendable flap may optionally be utilized to cover the window. This bendable flap might be useful in forming a water-tight enclosure to avoid water entering the window.

FIG. 9 illustrates the band 900 including two pockets 940, 940′ and a watch face 992 located within one pocket 940 and at a predetermined distance from the other pocket 940′, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The band including the pockets is preferably made of silicone or silicone-type stretchable material. The watch face may be located in a pocket and visible via either the inner or outer surface of the band (i.e., via an opening or a visually transparent or non-opaque window 980). The opening may also be referred to as a window 980. As another alternative, the watch face may be utilized or held in a typical manner (i.e., not within a pocket) while a separately located pocket may hold any suitable item. As a further alternative, the watch face may be visible only by removing it from a pocket. The outer surface of the band is the preferred place for the watch face to be seen as the arrow 983 indicates. FIG. 9 also depicts how grooves and patterns may be embossed or etched into the band to increase flexibility, stretchability, and/or breathability on the skin, as well as for ornamental/style purposes. Slits 950, 950′ are indicated.

In one embodiment the pocket may include cut-outs or a thinning of the material covering would-be buttons on any of the surfaces that may enable the wearer to control the control mechanisms (e.g., buttons) or touch-screen functions of items (e.g. a watch or Bluetooth device) that may be inserted into the pocket. The pocket may feature a small protrusion, marking, or some other indicator that therein lies a corresponding control mechanism that may be pressed by the wearer from the outside of the pocket. The item inside the pocket may optionally be removed so the wearer may control the functions outside the pocket.

FIG. 10 illustrates the band 1000 including a pocket 1040 with cut-outs 1095 on the top and sides of the pocket, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The larger cut-out in the top of the pocket serves as a window 1081 to view the items within or as an access point to control a touch-screen device such as a watch face 1092 as shown. The two smaller cut-outs on the side allow, for example, for the item's buttons to protrude from the pocket and therefore are more easily accessed by the wearer to control the item within the pocket. The slit or pocket entrance is not shown (i.e., in phantom) for simplicity purposes. The top of the pocket also features two embossed circles that denote where additional buttons are positioned to control the item within the pocket.

In a preferred embodiment, the band including the pocket are formed of the same material such as silicone, plastic, polymer, rubber, spandex, neoprene, polyurethane, plastisol, elastic materials, fabric materials, elastic fabric materials, silicone infused with glow-in-the-dark materials, silicone infused with magnets, silicone infused with reflective materials, buoyant materials, and/or memory cell materials. Alternatively, the pocket may comprise a material different than the remainder of the band.

The band may be made in any color or combination of colors and patterns such as marbled or swirled. The band may be made to be shiny, matte finish, translucent, or neon.

The band and pocket may be made of various sizes to accommodate different size contents and limbs or other body parts. This includes children, adults, animals, and all their various limbs, torsos, necks, and heads.

The overall band may be formed in an oval shape at rest, but may alternatively be made to have a circular, hexagonal, or a variety of other shapes at rest.

In another embodiment, the band may be infused with a watch or other timing device. In either scenario, the band would comprise the watch or timing device.

In another embodiment, the band may be secured around the wrist using a watch clasp, hole and peg, hook and loop, snap, button, magnetic closure, or other closure/fastening mechanism(s), that may optionally adjust the sizing of the band.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate how the band material may be embossed, debossed, printed on, etc., at numerous locations. Text 870, 871, 872, 873 and images may be printed, etched, engraved, laser cut, attached to, embossed, debossed, and printed on any surface of the band 800 including the pocket 840. Slit 850 is indicated.

The pocket may be made in different shapes such as a polygon or animal shape to entice children. The pocket doesn't necessarily need to be rectangular, the ends or sides may be pointed, rounded or fit the shape of the band. The entire band could be hollowed to further decrease the overall weight of the band and to thereby extend the pocket dimensions.

The entrance slit to the pocket may be made diagonally across the pocket, along the length of the pocket (see, for example, FIG. 13), at both ends, and at multiple locations on the pocket. The band comprises only a single pocket, but may alternatively comprise two or more pockets (see, for example, FIG. 9).

The band may have two or more of these slits/openings for the pocket because the openings will remain closed when the band is at its resting position. In case contents move to the side or bottom of the pocket you could have another opening on the corresponding side or bottom for ease of reach.

In a preferred embodiment, the band including the pocket may be made from the same material, or more preferably, from a solid piece of the same material. The band may preferably be made from two or more molds and the band is then welded or infused together.

The thickness, depths, lengths, and widths of the material(s) of the band including the pocket may vary (see, for example, FIG. 12 for dimensional direction indications).

Some additional exemplary benefits of the band including the pocket in the present application is that it is non-abrasive to the user's skin, seamless, easy to put on for children or adults, water-proof, reusable, sweat-proof, stain resistant, mold resistant, easy to clean, light-weight, consistent material throughout, and/or inexpensive and quick to manufacture in a variety of sizes, colors and/or materials.

Another benefit of the invention is that items that are slightly larger than the size of the pocket at rest may be accommodated into the pocket due to the stretchable material used, which is capable of expanding and conforming to the item.

A further benefit of the invention is that since the slit is located between opposing edges of the pocket such that there is a predetermined distance between the slit and any of the edges, item(s) placed within the pocket may be longer than the distance between the slit and the opposite edge of the pocket. This is possible because once item(s) are inserted through the slit, the item(s) may extend towards both opposing edges while the entrance slit snaps back over the item(s) thus removably containing the item(s) inside the pocket.

FIG. 11 is similar to FIG. 7, except FIG. 11 illustrates the slit 1150 or pocket entrance made in a shape which includes a curved line, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The band 1100 including pocket 1140 and magnified close-up 1130 are indicated.

FIG. 12 illustrates exemplary dimensions of the band 100 shown in FIG. 1. The width 146 of the pocket 140 is approximately 1.0 inch. The length 145 of the pocket 140 is approximately 2.25 inches. The thickness 117 of the band 100 (i.e., in areas distant from the pocket 140) is approximately 0.1 inch. The thickness 117 of the band that includes the pocket 140 is approximately 0.3 inch. The depth 147 of the pocket is approximately 0.28 inch. The circumference of the overall band 100 is approximately 7.0 inches. Slit 150 is indicated.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary band 1300 including a pocket 1340 having a slit 1350 or pocket entrance extending in a length-wise direction, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

There are numerous changes that may be made to the invention of the present application. Such changes are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. These include various band (including pocket) shapes, weights, thicknesses, levels of flexibility, stretchability, holes, perforations, grooves, and/or ridges in the material to, for example, enable soundwaves to penetrate and/or add breathability throughout the band including the pocket.

The present invention is directed to a band capable of substantially surrounding a limb, neck, or head of a user. The band comprises a main portion capable of substantially surrounding a limb, neck, or head of a user. The band also comprises a pocket provided within the main portion, wherein the pocket includes a slit whereby an entrance to an interior of the pocket is provided, wherein the pocket is capable of removably storing at least one item placed within the interior of the pocket via the slit, and wherein at least a portion of the pocket that includes the slit is stretchable. The slit may comprise a substantially straight line extending between end portions thereof or may comprise a curved line extending between end portions thereof. The slit may be substantially parallel to two opposing edges of the pocket. The slit is preferable located between the two opposing edges of the pocket such that the slit is located a predetermined distance from either of the two opposing edges of the pocket.

In a preferred embodiment, the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the length of the pocket.

In another preferred embodiment, the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the width of the pocket.

In another preferred embodiment, the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the depth of the pocket.

The slit preferably comprises a substantially circular opening at at least one end portion thereof.

The slit is preferably located on a proximal surface of the band and is preferably configured to be positioned immediately adjacent the limb, neck, or head of the user, whereby the limb, neck, or head of the user covers the slit such that the opening is blocked.

The interior of the pocket is preferably capable of being only accessible by the user when the slit is in a stretched state.

In one embodiment, the pocket consists substantially of silicone.

In one embodiment, the slit is located on a proximal surface of the pocket and wraps around to an adjacent side of the pocket. The proximal surface of the pocket is preferably substantially perpendicular to the adjacent side of the pocket.

In one embodiment, the at least one item may be selected from the group consisting of a magnet, light, identification chip, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of a microchip, keyless entry chip, heart-rate monitor, hologram, stone, mineral, radio, video display, GPS device, Bluetooth device, and combinations thereof.

The pocket may include a window that is capable of allowing the at least one item to be viewable by a user of the band. The window may be at a surface of the pocket opposite the slit.

In another embodiment, the main portion is capable of substantially surrounding a torso of a user, wherein the slit is configured to be positioned immediately adjacent the torso of the user, whereby the torso of the user covers the slit such that the opening is blocked.

Methods to Create the Band

One exemplary method of making the present invention is to form the overall design of the band including the pocket with a computer program such as a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) program. This ensures exact dimensions, symmetry, and accuracy. The design is then formed (e.g., via 3D printing) into a solid plastic form. The newly formed piece is then molded to create a fiberglass, metal, rubber, or other material mold. A cast or mold has thus been created so that silicone or silicone-like materials may be poured or injected into the mold to produce the band as the finished product. In this manner, numerous bands may quickly be made by a machine at the same time with multiple molds in a variety of colors, textures, patterns, and texts, if desired.

An alternative exemplary method to form the band is by utilizing a mold of the desired shape of the band in which the pocket cavity is exposed in the band. Another mold is utilized which creates the portion that covers the pocket acting as a lid to the pocket that includes the slit. The two pieces are fused together (e.g., through radio frequency or ultrasonic welding) to create one solid piece of the same material without seams. The pocket opening may be created with a laser or water jet cutter or built into the mold itself.

The engraving, debossing, or embossing of the band may either be built into the mold or laser etched into the surface of the band. Other methods to add text, decals, logos, and to embed different materials into the band may be contemplated within the scope of the present invention.

One skilled in the art of mold making realizes that there are a number of methods and tools to create the band of the present invention and its different embodiments.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “band” comprises any or all the connected or integral components (e.g., the pocket, watch, timing device, closure mechanism(s), etc.) mentioned throughout this disclosure.

Although the pocket is described throughout the disclosure as being either on the inner surface (i.e., adjacent limb, neck, or head of the user) or outer surface of the band, the pocket may alternatively be located on either side of the band.

Although the band is described throughout the disclosure as stretchable, it may alternatively be rigid with the pocket/entrance portion remaining stretchable (preferably via use of a different material).

Although the slit is described throughout the disclosure as being in the shape of a straight line or curve having certain dimensions, the slit may alternatively comprise other shapes, designs, and/or patterns (e.g. zig-zagged, jagged, stepped, triangular), lengths and/or widths.

Although the band is described throughout the disclosure as substantially surrounding the body limb or other body part, it may do so with materials, such as clothing, therebetween. For example, the band may be placed on a user's wrist surrounding a user's shirt sleeve.

The thickness of the outer flap of the pocket (i.e., adjacent the slit) described in any of the embodiments throughout this disclosure may vary.

Features in any of the embodiments mentioned throughout this disclosure may be combinable or interchangeable with one another.

In some figures, the slit and/or pocket is not shown (i.e., whether in phantom or not) for simplicity purposes. Each figure has at least one slit and one pocket, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

In any embodiment, when the slit is in non-stretched (relaxed) mode, the opening may preferably be in the range of 0-5 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0-2.5 mm

The dimensions, size, and shape of any component within the band 100, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1300 such as the main portion, pocket, pocket interior, slit and/or slit end openings/portions may differ than that described in the exemplary embodiments above. Such differences are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

The contemplated modifications and variations specifically mentioned above and below are considered to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations may be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, although the pocket 140, 340, 440, 540, 640, 740, 840, 940, 1040, 1140, 1340 is described above as including one or two slits, any number of slits may alternatively be employed in accordance with the present invention. It is therefore to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed above, but it is intended to cover such modifications and variations as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A band capable of substantially surrounding a limb, neck, or head of a user, the band comprising:

a main portion capable of substantially surrounding a limb, neck, or head of a user; and

a pocket provided within the main portion, wherein the pocket includes a slit whereby an entrance to an interior of the pocket is provided, wherein the pocket is capable of removably storing at least one item placed within the interior of the pocket via the slit, and wherein at least a portion of the pocket that includes the slit is stretchable.

2. The band of claim 1, wherein the slit comprises a substantially straight line extending between end portions thereof.

3. The band of claim 2, wherein the slit is substantially parallel to two opposing edges of the pocket.

4. The band of claim 3, wherein the slit is located between the two opposing edges of the pocket such that the slit is located a predetermined distance from either of the two opposing edges of the pocket.

5. The band of claim 2, wherein the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the length of the pocket.

6. The band of claim 2, wherein the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the width of the pocket.

7. The band of claim 2, wherein the pocket has a length, width, and depth, wherein the length is larger than the width, and wherein the slit extends in a direction substantially along the depth of the pocket.

8. The band of claim 1, wherein the slit comprises a curved line extending between end portions thereof.

9. The band of claim 1, wherein the slit comprises a substantially circular opening at at least one end portion thereof.

10. The band of claim 1, wherein the slit is located on a proximal surface of the band.

11. The band of claim 1, wherein the slit is configured to be positioned immediately adjacent the limb, neck, or head of the user, whereby the limb, neck, or head of the user covers the slit such that the opening is blocked.

12. The band of claim 1, wherein the interior of the pocket is capable of being only accessible by the user when the slit is in a stretched state.

13. The band of claim 1, wherein the pocket consists substantially of silicone.

14. The band of claim 1, wherein the slit is located on a proximal surface of the pocket and wraps around to an adjacent side of the pocket.

15. The band of claim 14, wherein the proximal surface of the pocket is substantially perpendicular to the adjacent side of the pocket.

16. The band of claim 1, wherein the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of a magnet, light, identification chip, and combinations thereof.

17. The band of claim 1, wherein the at least one item is selected from the group consisting of a microchip, keyless entry chip, heart-rate monitor, hologram, stone, mineral, radio, video display, GPS device, Bluetooth device, and combinations thereof.

18. The band of claim 1, wherein the pocket includes a window that is capable of allowing the at least one item to be viewable by a user of the band.

19. The band of claim 18, wherein the window is at a surface of the pocket opposite the slit.

20. The band of claim 18, wherein the main portion is capable of substantially surrounding a torso of a user, wherein the slit is configured to be positioned immediately adjacent the torso of the user, whereby the torso of the user covers the slit such that the opening is blocked.