Modular Necktie

Abstract

A modular necktie comprises a collar portion, a collar portion connector, a knot portion, a top portion, a bottom portion, and at least one connecting fastener. The constituent parts are connected to one another in a necktie assemblage. Some pieces may be constructed of rigid or semi-rigid materials of construction, for example by machining individual parts. The assemblage may be used to contain or conceal a mobile computing device, a mobile phone, a camera, a video camera, or sensors, including for gestures or biometric, atmospheric, and location data.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/865,216, entitled “Modular Necktie,” which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The necktie has long been a popular clothing and fashion item. Most typically, a necktie comprises a unitary length of pliable fabric, such as silk, which is knotted about the wearer's neck. The tie cannot be altered, other than in the selection of the knot tied by the wearer.

Neckties can be difficult to tie properly, particularly for the young, the elderly, and those with limited use of their hands. Certain knotting methods have been employed for these users, such as the “clip on” tie, which is generally descriptive of a fixed, pre-tied knot that mates to a fastener that clips the tie assemblage to the wearer's shirt collar. While functional and suitable for some, many users do not like such fasteners, which also eliminate the part of the tie that circles the neck, and therefore cause a “clip on” tie to look different than other ties tied with a knot. For some, the “clip-on” tie is associated with children's clothing or is otherwise considered not to be fashionable, resulting in it not being utilized or not preferred by many wearers.

Second, it is often difficult for the wearer of a necktie to get the length right when tying the tie's knot. Aside from tying a tie knot to look as though it was properly tied, the length of the tie once the knot is completed is also important to many wearers. As a general rule for all tie knots, the widest part of a tie should hang roughly at the same height as the upper edge of the wearer's leather belt, with the tie's tip extending slightly below it. The tip of the narrow end then hangs wherever it may. For some, it takes multiple attempts to tie a knot that looks nice when finished and which leaves the tie at the desired length. Many tie wearers tie the tie to achieve a tidy looking knot only, being unaware of where the end of the tie may fall once tied. Others struggle with simply tying the knot.

Particular knots are selected by the necktie wearer to achieve a certain look, or to function and look proper with a particular shirt collar size and shape. These knots cause the length of the tie to vary each time the knot is tied. Additionally, each tie is of a different length, bulk, and material of construction, making a consistently tied knot result in a variable length of the tie once tied. Particular knots, for example the Windsor Knot or the Half Windsor Knot, may look good if tied properly, yet they remain relatively difficult to execute while keeping the tie length constant.

Necktie wearers are among those who select a certain clothing assemblage and they have traditionally attired themselves with watches, belts, belt buckles, shoes, suspenders/braces, pocket squares, silk neckties, tie tacks/tie bars, cuff links, bracelets, necklaces, rings, pocket watches/chains, piercings/ear rings, tattoos, hats, scarves, gloves, glasses and sunglasses, bolo ties, mobile phones and protective covers and casings, money clips, fountain pens, and other clothing and personal items to project a desired style, image, or to conform to a group. The present invention addresses some limitations of traditional neckwear and jewelry.

An object of the present invention is to provide a modular necktie, comprising a plurality of mating and interchangeable parts, which addresses and overcomes shortcomings of standard neckwear. The modular necktie provides the wearer a multitude of combinations and permutations, facilitating a different look, style, or function depending on the wearer's personal preferences.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a modular necktie.

FIG. 2 illustrates a portion of a modular necktie.

FIG. 3 illustrates a modular necktie comprising a knot portion, a top portion, a connector and a bottom portion.

FIG. 4 illustrates a modular necktie assemblage.

FIG. 5 illustrates the top portion of a modular necktie, with a through-hole for a tie-tack or adornment.

FIG. 6 illustrates a modular necktie with illustrative measurements.

FIG. 7A-E illustrates a construction method for the knot portion of a modular necktie.

FIG. 8A illustrates a modular necktie with connector. FIG. 8B illustrates a modular necktie connector.

FIG. 9 illustrates a modular necktie construction.

FIG. 10A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and FIG. 10B illustrates a perspective view, with associated cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.

FIG. 11A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view, with associated cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.

FIG. 12A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and FIG. 12B illustrates a perspective view, with associated cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.

FIG. 13A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and FIG. 13B illustrates a perspective view, with associated cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.

FIG. 14 illustrates a modular necktie kit, comprising four knot portions, four top portions, and connectors.

FIG. 15 illustrates a modular necktie kit, comprising three knot portions, three top portions, connectors, and several bottom portions.

FIG. 16 illustrates a modular necktie kit, comprising knot portions, top portions, connectors, and bottom portions.

FIG. 17A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and FIG. 17B illustrates a perspective view, with associated cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.

FIG. 18 illustrates a modular necktie kit, comprising top portions, interchangeable knot portions, bottom portions, and connectors.

FIG. 19 illustrates a modular necktie, comprising a section for a mobile phone, mobile computing device, camera or videocamera, and a knot portion, a top portion, and a bottom portion.

FIG. 20 illustrates a side perspective of a knot portion and a top portion.

FIG. 21 illustrates a partial top perspective of a knot portion and a top portion.

FIG. 22 illustrates a modular necktie, specifically showing in the knot portion a connecting region to connect jewelry or decorative attachments.

FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of a necktie assemblage wherein the knot portion and the top portion are constructed of two different types of wood, forming a striped pattern in each.

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion and a connector.

FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion and a connector.

FIG. 26 illustrates a side-perspective view of a partial assemblage.

FIG. 27 illustrates a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion, a first connector, a top portion, a second connector, and a bottom portion.

FIG. 27-B illustrates a partial assemblage comprising a wider knot portion, a shaped first connector, and a top portion.

FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of a knot portion mated to a top portion, with a band situated between the two.

FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion, with a band situated between the two, and a connector.

FIG. 30 illustrates a modular necktie assemblage comprising a collar portion, a knot portion, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein said collar portion is a collar constructed of rigid material.

FIG. 31-A illustrates a necktie assemblage comprising an elongated knot portion that tapers at its lower end and overlaps a portion of the top portion.

FIG. 31-B is a side-perspective view of the assemblage illustrated in FIG. 31-A.

FIG. 32 illustrates an assemblage comprising a top portion that has been hinged at an end in order to open and reveal a compartment for a timekeeping element.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, an exemplary modular necktie comprises a collar portion, a collar portion connector, a knot portion, a top portion, a bottom portion, and at least one connecting fastener. The modular necktie comprises an assemblage of constituent parts.

In another embodiment, a modular necktie comprises a collar portion, a collar portion connector, a knot portion, a top portion, a first connector to connect said knot portion and said top portion, a bottom portion, and a second connector to connect said top portion and said bottom portion.

In another embodiment, a modular necktie kit comprises one or more of the constituent parts of a modular necktie, allowing the user to configure a multiplicity of different neckties from the constituent parts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The techniques described throughout this disclosure may address one or more of these needs and may advantageously overcome one or more deficiencies of other options. Certain embodiments of the inventions will now be described. These embodiments are presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions. To illustrate some of the embodiments, reference will now be made to the figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates a modular necktie comprising a collar portion 1, a knot portion 2, a top portion 3, and a bottom portion 4.

In one embodiment, the collar portion 1 comprises a section of fabric that circles the wearer's neck, and which would typically be hidden under the collar of a men's dress shirt. The collar portion can be any suitable textile, including silk, cotton, nylon, spandex, elastic, or leather, or a combination thereof, or it can be a link of chain, as one would associate with a necklace with a fastening clasp.

The collar portion 1 may be secured about the wearer's neck with a collar portion connector (not illustrated). This collar portion connector may comprise a clasp, mating hook and loop fasteners, mating magnets, or any other suitable connector to secure the tie assemblage about a wearer's neck. Preferably, the collar portion connector functions to allow the wearer to appropriately size the collar portion for comfortable use by the wearer. A modular necktie too tight about the wearer's neck is undesirable, as is one that is too loose and which does not appropriately situate the knot portion properly with respect to a shirt collar. The preferred embodiment of collar portion 1 comprises mating magnets, allowing the fabric to be adjusted once for sizing, and then allowing the tie to be quickly and simply secured into place around the neck. Mating magnets also allow quick removal of the tie.

Next, the knot portion 2 may comprise a pre-tied knot of fabric, or other material fashioned to resemble or replace the knot of a typical men's necktie. For example, the knot portion may comprise a specially formed piece of metal, porcelain, ceramic, glass, plastic or composite, acrylic, stone, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, formed leather or the like. In this manner, the knot portion may be constructed of different material than the remainder of the modular necktie. The knot portion 2 is matingly engaged with the collar portion 1, for example by forming the knot portion 2 with a tunnel to accept through passage of the collar portion 1.

In one embodiment of a knot portion 2, the knot portion 2 is constructed of leather, which is embossed with a brogue-type ornamentation to match a men's shoe with wingtip and brogue ornamentation. Other examples include hand tooled leather, materials having visually interesting surface treatments or textures or patterns, embossing, brogue patterns, stitching, and the like.

The top portion 3 of the modular necktie connects to the knot portion 2. This top portion is about 2 to 25 inches in length, preferably being shorter than that portion of a standard necktie that, in a standard necktie, extends from the tie knot to the tip of the tie. The top portion may be constructed of metal, porcelain, ceramic, glass, plastic or composite, acrylic, stone, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, or leather, for example leather suitable for stitching or hand tooling or leather capable of being styled to match a men's shoe, belt, or suspender, or any other suitable textile. The top portion 3, even when constructed of solid material, may be formed to resemble a dimple that is often purposely formed when a tie of silk or fabric is tied.

The top portion 3 of the modular necktie may either be integrally formed with the knot portion 2, or the top portion 3 may connect to the knot portion 2 wherein a fastening means or a connecting fastener secures the top portion 3 and the knot portion 2. As one example of a connecting fastener to secure the top portion 3 and the knot portion 2, the knot portion 2 may define a cylindrical recess with a magnet at one end. The top portion 3 may have at one end a cylindrical cap with a magnet, wherein the cylindrical cap with magnet is designed to mate with the cylindrical recess and magnet. The cylindrical cap may be formed to allow the top portion 3 to achieve a predetermined shape, for example a dimple as one may find as being associated with utilization of a certain type of tied necktie knot.

The cylindrical cap may also be constructed to be oblong, or to comprise a spine or slot, to function to keep the cylindrical cap from twisting within the cylindrical recess in the knot portion. This construction keeps the knot portion 2 and the top portion 3 in correct alignment with respect to one another.

By utilizing a connecting top portion 3 and knot portion 2, one knot portion 2 may be quickly and easily mated with any number of different top portions 3 in order to achieve a particular look or style.

In one embodiment of the top portion 3, the top portion 3 is constructed of leather, which is embossed with a brogue-type ornamentation to match a men's shoe with wingtip and brogue ornamentation. Other examples include hand tooled leather, materials having visually interesting surface treatments, dyes, textures or patterns, embossing, brogue patterns, stitching, and the like.

The top portion 3 may also comprise an edge portion of semi-rigid construction. The edge portion may function to keep the tie assemblage close to the wearer and to prevent the tie assemblage from becoming hung up upon the lapel of a suit coat or overcoat.

Next, the top portion 3 is designed to mate with a bottom portion 4, having a fastener situated between, or connecting, the two. The top portion 3 and the bottom portion 4 may be formed of differing materials. For example, the top portion 3 may comprise hand-tooled leather, and the bottom portion 4 may comprise a silk textile as is commonly associated with necktie construction.

The top portion 3 may also define or comprise a pocket or recess on the back side, as may be sized to accept cash, credit cards, ID, spare keys, a smartphone, knife, pen, stylus, RFID payment chip, computer thumb drive, camera, videocamera, music player, or the like.

The top portion 3 may also have a through-hole to receive decorative adornments, such as tie tacks, cuff links, “jewelry buttons”, brooches, fanciful ornaments (e.g. JIBBITZ® brand ornaments manufactured to fit holes in waterproof sandals sold under the CROCS brand by Crocs, Inc.) and the like. FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the through-hole in the shape of a key hole in the top portion 3.

A fastener may be present between the top portion 3 and the bottom portion 4. The fastener may comprise snaps, buttons, hooks, magnets, or any other suitable quick release fastener. The fastener may be constructed to achieve an ornamental design, as one might find in construction of tie bars and tie tacks, buttons, and cuff links. The fastener may also comprise a retaining piece for the purpose of clipping or attaching the necktie assemblage to the shirt of a wearer, similar to a tie bar or tie tack. The retaining piece may function to hold the tie assemblage close to the wearer's body.

The fastener, in conjunction with the top portion, bottom portion, and knot portion, allows the user to configure a modular tie for wearing in a number of different combinations and permutations. Because the wearer may configure so many different styles with the various constituent parts of the modular necktie, the modular necktie may be more cost effective than owning a multitude of standard silk neckties.

With five knots, five top portions, and five bottom portions (as may be constructed from silk), a total of 125 combinations are possible. The constituent parts of the modular necktie may be manufactured and sold as independent pieces or as kits where the constituent parts are selected to function well with one another, for example to achieve a style, look or fashion for a particular season. The exemplary kit, with 125 combinations, may be sold for considerably less than the equivalent number of traditionally constructed neckties. As a result, the modular necktie may be more cost effective than compiling a wardrobe of traditionally constructed neckties. The modular necktie also facilitates configuration of many different ties for many different users, occasions, or situations.

In addition to cost effectiveness of the modular necktie versus traditionally constructed neckties, the modular necktie reduces the amount of silk textile required. When the constituent parts of the modular necktie are assembled, there is no requirement for an additional piece of textile unnecessarily dangling behind the tie, sometimes referred to as the rear apron, as would be found with a traditionally constructed necktie. A keeper loop may also be eliminated, as it is typically used in constructing a necktie only for the purpose of keeping the rear apron attached to the remainder of the tie. This reduction of the amount of textile required may also reduce the cost of manufacture. Further, the silk textile is not continually knotted and un-knotted, reducing wrinkling and the wear and tear on the fabric. Bottom portions, if constructed of silk, can be stored flat, kept wrinkle-free, and dry cleaned less frequently.

Conversely, certain modular necktie constituent parts may be crafted of fine, elegant, unique, expensive, fashionable, or luxury parts or materials, so as to achieve characteristics of luxury menswear, as one would associate with fine jewelry, luxury men's wristwatches, or custom manufactured cutlery or pocketknives. Examples of such materials include, but are not limited to, exotic hardwoods, bones or antlers, stone, fossilized material, exotic composites such as carbon fiber or KEVLAR fibers, inlaid gemstones, precious metals (gold, silver, titanium, bronze, aluminum, stainless steel, brass, Damascus steel, color case hardened metals, etc.), wood with precious metal wire inlays (such as silver and gold wire inlays), leather, exotic animal hides, and the like. Distinct dyes, stains, polishes, paints, and surface treatments may be used, for example including hand-painting, enameling, cloisonné, champlevé, hand-engraving, engine turning and Guilloche machining using decorative engraving techniques in which a very precise intricate repetitive pattern or design is mechanically engraved into the underlying material with fine detail, color case hardening, anodizing, bluing, powder coating, and the like. Certain embodiments involve styles of metal engraving, inlay, and gem setting, including Western single-point, bright-cutting, fine European scroll, Bulino-style wildlife scenes, gold inlay, bezel, bead, and flush setting. By varying materials of construction, the modular necktie allows the manufacturer to construct neckwear suitable for sale across a number of different price points and to different customers and demographic groups.

Material of construction may be selected to match other articles of clothing. For example, a leather knot portion and a leather top portion may be selected to match a leather belt and pair of leather shoes. A wood or metal knot portion may be used to match a wristwatch, pair of cufflinks, suspenders, or a belt buckle. A bottom portion may be used to match a women's dress, for example in a bridal party.

Materials of construction may be selected for the knot portion and the top portion that resist soiling, and therefore reduce laundering costs normally associated with the wearing of silk neckties.

FIG. 2 illustrates a knot portion 2-2, constructed of leather, comprising a brogue pattern, and a top portion 2-3, constructed of leather, comprising a dimple, a brogue and stitching pattern along the edges, a symmetrical brogue pattern at the end, and fastener elements, shown as small grey circles, affixed to the rear of the top portion 2-3 to accept a connection with a bottom portion. The fastener depicted here may be a magnet, button, or a snap, for example.

FIG. 3 illustrates a knot portion 3-2, comprising a brogue pattern, a top portion 3-3, comprising a brogue and stitching pattern along the edges, a symmetrical brogue pattern at the end nearest the knot portion, and a fastener 3-5 to connect the top portion 3-3 to the bottom portion, partially shown as extending beneath the fastener 3-5. Here, the fastener 3-5 is shown as two rectangular elements, each being magnetically attracted to the other. The top half of fastener 3-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the top portion 3-3, and the bottom half of the fastener 3-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the bottom portion 3-3. In this manner, the fastener 3-5 allows the wearer to quickly change the bottom portion with a replacement bottom portion. For example, the wearer may swap bottom portions quickly and easily until he finds one that suits his or her stylistic preferences for the occasion or outfit being worn.

FIG. 4 illustrates a complete modular necktie assemblage shown with a collar portion 4-1, a knot portion 4-2, comprising a brogue pattern, a top portion 4-3, comprising a brogue and stitching pattern along the edges, a symmetrical brogue pattern at the end nearest the knot portion, a bottom portion 4-4, and a fastener 4-5 to connect the top portion 4-3 to the bottom portion 4-4. Here, the fastener 4-5 is shown as two rectangular elements, each being magnetically attracted to the other. The top half of fastener 4-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the top portion 4-3, and the bottom half of the fastener 4-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the bottom portion 4-4.

FIG. 5 illustrates the lowermost portion of a top portion. Here, the top portion is shown as having a through-hole 5-1, a brogue and stitching pattern 5-2 at the edges of the top portion, a fastener 5-3, and a pattern 5-4. Through-hole 5-1 may accept a cuff-link, a tie tack, or a decorative button-type adornment.

FIG. 6 illustrates approximate dimensions for an embodiment of the constituent parts of a modular necktie. A knot portion is shown having a width of about 1.75 to 3 inches and a height of about 2 inches. A top portion is shown as having a length of about 10 inches or less, and a width of about 1.5-2 in. at one end and about 2-3.5 in. at the other end. The assemblage of the top portion and the bottom portion is shown having a length of about 20 inches. These dimensions may vary, and are not intended to limit the construction of the modular necktie components. For example, the knot portion may have a width narrower than 1.75 inches, or it may be curved to better approximate the shape of a neck and have a dimension that is more difficult to measure precisely.

FIG. 7A illustrates one method of construction for the knot portion. Here a material, such as leather, is shown shaped to be able to be folded about a buck or form 7A-1, to take a shape approximating that of a knotted silk necktie. Top flap 7A-2 is folded down over the buck 7A-1, and wings 7A-3 are folded at the dotted fold lines. FIG. 7B shows the top flap folded down, and the wings being folded in the direction of the curved arrows. FIG. 7C illustrates the top flap and the wings folded into place, and secured with a rivet or snap, shown as a small grey circle. FIG. 7D and FIG. 7E illustrate differently shaped top flaps and wings, and each shows the top flap and the wings being secured to one another by stitching.

FIG. 8A shows a knot portion, a top portion, a connector, and part of the bottom portion. FIG. 8B focuses upon the connector, shown as two rectangular elements, between the top portion and the bottom portion. Here, the fastener is shown as two rectangular elements, each being magnetically attracted to the other. The top half of fastener may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the top portion, and the bottom half of the fastener may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the bottom portion.

FIG. 9 illustrates a knot portion 9-2, a top portion 9-3, and a fastener 9-5. Here, the knot portion 9-2 is depicted as two lobes that connect to a tang integrally formed as part of the top portion 9-3. The two lobes of the knot portion 9-2 may fasten to the tang of the top portion 9-3, or to one another by holes formed within the tang portion, for example by magnetic or mechanical connection. The two lobes of the knot portion 9-2 are preferably formed of a rigid material, such as wood, plastic, metal, or composite.

In another embodiment, the knot portion is formed of hardwood, and the top portion is formed of metal. In FIG. 9, the knot portion is seen as two lobes of wood sandwiching a tang of the top portion. This embodiment resembles a profile of the handle portion of custom cutlery, or a custom manufactured pocket knife. Differing materials of construction allows almost endless possibilities for combinations and permutations of the modular necktie assemblage.

FIG. 10A illustrates a knot portion, a top portion, and a fastener. Here, the knot portion is depicted as two lobes that connect to a tang integrally formed as part of the top portion. The two lobes of the knot portion may fasten to the tang of the top portion, or to one another by holes formed within the tang portion, for example by magnetic or mechanical connection. The top portion may be formed from wood, metal, plastic, or composite. The top portion is shown as having a length from the top end A to the lower end B. The top portion is shown as having formed therein a “dimple”, represented by the grey/hatched triangle near the bottom of the knot portion. The tang of the top portion is oriented roughly 90 degrees from the remainder of the top portion.

FIG. 10B illustrates a side perspective of the top portion, and a cross section of the top portion at planes labeled 1 through 5, which planes are also shown in FIG. 10A. The cross sections are intended to illustrate that, moving from the top end A to the bottom end B through planes 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1, the dimple is present, even when the top portion is fabricated from a rigid material. This “dimple” mimics the dimple that may be found when a typical silk necktie is tied. In FIG. 10B, the grey box near end A of the top portion is intended to show a hole through which the collar portion may pass.

FIG. 11A is a partial exploded view that shows the two lobes of the knot portion being detached from the tang of the top portion. FIG. 11B shows cross sections, similar to those described in relation to FIG. 10B.

FIG. 12A illustrates an integrally formed knot portion and top portion, and a fastener. FIG. 12B shows cross sections, similar to those described in relation to FIG. 10B.

FIG. 13A illustrates a knot portion, a top portion, and a fastener. Here, the knot portion is depicted as one lobe that connects to an inline-tang integrally formed as part of the top portion. The lobe of the knot portion may fasten to the inline-tang of the top portion, for example by magnetic or mechanical connection 13B-2. The top portion may be formed from wood, metal, plastic, or composite. The top portion is shown as having a length from the top end A to the lower end B. The top portion is shown as having formed therein a “dimple”, represented by the grey/hatched triangle near the bottom of the knot portion. The tang of the top portion is oriented roughly in line with the remainder of the top portion.

FIG. 13B illustrates a side perspective of the top portion and the knot portion, and a cross section of the top portion at planes labeled 1 through 5, which planes are also shown in FIG. 13A. The cross sections are intended to illustrate that, moving from the top end A to the bottom end B through planes 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1, the dimple is present, even when the top portion is fabricated from a rigid material. This “dimple” mimics the dimple that may be found when a typical silk necktie is tied. In FIG. 13B, the grey box near end A of the top portion is intended to show a hole through which the collar portion may pass. The lobe of the knot portion 13B-1 is shown as having a connector 13B-2 and a connector hole 13B-3. Here, the connector 13B-2 is shown as a small bolt and mating nut, to secure the lobe of the knot portion 13B-1 to the top portion near end A. The lobe of the knot portion 13B-1 may also fasten to the top portion by magnetic connection or other mechanical fastener, to allow the lobe to be swapped with another lobe, to achieve a different look for the modular necktie assemblage. If the lobe of the knot portion 13B-1 is able to be fastened to the top portion by magnetic connection, the knot portion comprises at least one magnet and the top portion comprises at least one magnet. The lobe of the knot portion 13B-1 may also be formed in varying sizes that mate to a top portion of predetermined dimension. In this manner, different lobe sizes may utilized with one top portion, to allow the necktie assemblage to function with a number of different shirt collars with varied widths, spreads, and shapes.

FIG. 14 illustrates a kit of modular necktie components, with a plurality of knot portions and a plurality of top portions. Here, knot portion 14-2 is shown as accepting any of the four top portions shown. The first representative top portion is shown at its top end as having a connector 14-7 and a fitting end 14-6. As an example, the connector 14-7 is a magnet, and the fitting end 14-6 is cylindrically shaped to mate with a cylindrical recess in the knot portion 14-2 that has disposed therein a second magnet to mate with the connector 14-7.

FIG. 15 illustrates a kit of modular necktie components, with a plurality of knot portions, each having two mating lobes, a plurality of top portions, each having a tang to mate with said lobes, a plurality bottom portions, and a plurality of fasteners to connect the top portions and the bottom portions.

FIG. 16 illustrates a kit of modular necktie components, with a plurality of knot portions, a plurality of themed top portions, a plurality bottom portions, and a plurality of fasteners to connect the top portions and the bottom portions. Some of the top portions are illustrated as having specialty construction features, such as stitching that may match the stitching used on a baseball, stitching that may match the stitching found on a football, and stitching that may be found on a men's dress shoe. Material of construction may be selected to match the specialty construction features.

FIG. 17A illustrates an integrally formed knot portion and top portion, and a fastener. FIG. 17B shows cross sections, similar to those described in relation to FIG. 10B. FIG. 17B illustrates a knot portion of larger volumetric dimension than other embodiments.

FIG. 18 illustrates a kit of modular necktie components, with a plurality of knot portions, each having a single front lobe, a plurality of top portions, each having an inline-tang to mate with said lobes, a plurality bottom portions, and a plurality of fasteners to connect the top portions and the bottom portions.

FIG. 19 illustrates a complete modular necktie assemblage shown with a collar portion 19-1, a knot portion 19-2, comprising a brogue pattern, a top portion 19-3, comprising a brogue and stitching pattern along the edges, a symmetrical brogue pattern at the end nearest the knot portion, a bottom portion 19-4, and a fastener 19-5 to connect the top portion 19-3 to the bottom portion 19-4. Here, the fastener 19-5 is shown as two rectangular elements, with the lower fastening element being shown as an elongated rectangle, as may be sized to accept or secure a mobile computing device 19-6. Examples of the mobile computing device 19-6 are a mobile phone, a camera, and a videocamera. The top half of fastener 19-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the top portion 19-3, and the bottom half of the fastener 19-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the bottom portion 19-4. In this embodiment, a convenient storage location for a mobile phone is provided. While the storage location is illustrated here as part of the fastener, the storage location may also be defined by the top portion. The knot portion or the top portion may also be constructed to accept and conceal a pinhole camera or videocamera. In one embodiment, a remote-head video camera communicates data to a mobile computing device, such as an Apple iPhone. One exemplary function is to achieve covert or concealed videography or audio recording. The media upon which the recording is stored may be within the mobile computing device, or the mobile computing device may wirelessly transmit the recording for storage remotely, for example in undercover investigations or where it is advantageous to create a recording that is not easily erased or retrieved by those without authorized access. Alternatively, the top portion or the fastener may be constructed to allow audio or video recording from the mobile computing device being stored, for example by having a hole to allow light to reach the lens of a mobile phone that is capable of recording video. This method of assemblage allows the constituent parts of the modular necktie to be quickly disassembled and re-assembled.

FIG. 20 illustrates a side perspective of a knot portion 20-2 and a top portion 20-3. Here, the a knot portion 20-2 is shown constructed of machined wood or metal, and a top portion 20-3 is shown constructed of machined wood or metal and shaped to resemble a dimpled silk necktie. The top portion 20-3 is shown having a tang or flange 20-5, indicated here as a dashed rectangular flange, which is inserted into a recess in the knot portion 20-2. A connector 20-4, optionally with decorative features, is shown, which comprises through-bolts to secure and fasten the knot portion 20-2 and top portion 20-3 via restraining the flange 20-5. Here, an example of the connector 20-4 is a metallic structure, which is machined to sit flush with respect to the knot portion 20-2, creating a visually appealing assemblage. The connector 20-4 may use connecting pins, as opposed to threaded through-bolts. An exemplary connecting pin is magnetically attracted to at least a part of the connector 20-4, the knot portion 20-2 or the flange 20-5. In this manner, the magnetic connecting pin may be placed in the small hole in the connector, through a small hole in the flange 20-5, and thereby keep the flange 20-5 from separating from the knot portion 20-2. The connecting pin may be removed by pushing an end to sever the magnetic connection, for example by using a specialty tool, a toothpick, a straightened paperclip, or similar.

FIG. 21 illustrates a partial top perspective of a knot portion 21-2 and a top portion 21-3. Here, the knot portion 21-2 is shown constructed of machined wood or metal, and a top portion 21-3 is shown constructed of machined wood or metal and shaped to resemble a dimpled silk necktie. The top portion 21-3 is shown having a tang or flange 21-5, indicated here as a dashed rectangular flange, which is inserted into a recess in the knot portion 21-2. A connector 21-4 is shown, which comprises through-bolts to secure and fasten the knot portion 21-2 and top portion 21-3 via restraining the flange 21-5. Here, an example of the connector 21-4 is a metallic structure, which is machined to sit flush with respect to the knot portion 21-2, creating a visually appealing assemblage. The connector 21-4 may use connecting pins, as opposed to threaded through-bolts. An exemplary connecting pin is magnetically attracted to at least a part of the connector 21-4, the knot portion 21-2 or the flange 21-5. In this manner, the magnetic connecting pin may be placed in the small hole in the connector, through a small hole in the flange 21-5, and thereby keep the flange 21-5 from separating from the knot portion 21-2. The connecting pin may be removed by pushing an end to sever the magnetic connection, for example by using a specialty tool, a toothpick, a straightened paperclip, or similar.

FIG. 22 illustrates a modular necktie, specifically showing in the knot portion a connecting region 22-1 to connect jewelry or decorative attachments. In an embodiment, the connecting region 22-1 comprises a magnet to mate with jewelry or decorative attachments that have mating magnets.

FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of a necktie assemblage wherein the knot portion and the top portion are constructed of two different types of wood, forming a striped pattern in each. Further, the regions of contrast can be of differing materials, for example by using wood and inlaid silver or other precious metal. This figure illustrates that differing types of materials may be used not only for ornamentation, but to provide rigidity to the assemblage; to provide abrasion resistance, for example when the outermost material is metal and the contrasting material is wood the metal edges prevent wear abrasion from occurring between the assemblage and a coat lapel; and to prevent color seepage, for example as could occur if wood stain became wet and leached color to a shirt or suit coat.

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion and a connector. Here, the knot portion and the top portion are constructed of wood. At the distal end of the top portion is a connector, here shown as being constructed of metal for magnetic or mechanical connection to a bottom portion.

FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion and a connector. Here, the knot portion and the top portion are constructed partially of wood and partially of metal. The top portion has a metal portion disposed about its periphery, which metal portion at the distal end of the top portion also functions as a connector for magnetic or mechanical connection to a bottom portion.

FIG. 26 illustrates a side-perspective view of a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion 26-1, a top portion 26-2, a connector 26-3, and part of a bottom portion 26-4. The knot portion 26-1 at its top end shows an oblong orifice 26-5 through which the collar portion may be threaded. The knot portion also shows at its bottom end a fastener 26-6, constructed of metal, to fasten the knot portion and the top portion, and a through-bolt 26-7 having a decorative end, i.e. a gemstone.

FIG. 27 illustrates a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion 27-1, a first connector 27-2, a top portion 27-3, a second connector 27-4, and a bottom portion 27-5. The top portion 27-1 is illustrated as shaped to accept the first connector 27-2. The first connector 27-2 is also shaped to accept the top portion 27-3. FIG. 27-B illustrates a similar assemblage, but with a wider knot portion and a slightly wider shaped first connector.

FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of a knot portion mated to a top portion, with a band 28-1 situated between the two. The band 28-1 may be part of a connector that connects the knot portion and the top portion.

FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of a partial assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion, with a band 28-1 situated between the two, and a connector. The band 29-1 may be part of a connector that connects the knot portion and the top portion. Here, the knot portion and the top portion are constructed of wood. The top portion is shaped not to have a dimple. At the distal end of the top portion is a connector 29-2, here shown as being constructed of metal for magnetic or mechanical connection to a bottom portion.

FIG. 30 illustrates a modular necktie assemblage comprising a collar portion, a knot portion, a top portion, and a bottom portion, wherein said collar portion is a collar constructed of rigid or semi-rigid material. The rigid or semi-rigid material may be any material selected from the group comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone, wood, and leather, or other similar material. In the embodiment illustrated, the collar portion is formed from gold and is styled to be worn by a woman as a type of necklace. The collar portion is hinged at the rear, for removal from the neck of the wearer. The collar portion may have a connector to keep it closed at the front. The knot portion and the collar portion may have a magnetic or mechanical connection. This connection (not explicitly illustrated, but obscured by the collar) may occur in a space behind the point of the collar, hiding the method of connection. Again, the constituent parts of the necktie assemblage may be swapped with other mating parts to achieve a selected assemblage. For example, when worn by a woman, the knot portion, top portion and bottom portion may be selected of particular material, texture, and/or color in order to match other clothing being worn.

FIG. 31-A illustrates a necktie assemblage comprising an elongated knot portion that tapers at its lower end and overlaps a portion of the top portion. This embodiment illustrates shapes that may flow into one another for an aesthetically pleasing assemblage. Shapes and materials of construction may be altered by the wearer, using a kit comprising a plurality of constituent parts. FIG. 31-B is a side-perspective view of the assemblage illustrated in FIG. 31-A.

In another embodiment, either the knot portion, the top portion, or a combination of the two, may comprise a timekeeping element, such as a watch. FIG. 32 illustrates a top portion that has been hinged at an end in order to open and reveal a timekeeping element, such as a watch case or a pocket watch. FIG. 32 illustrates the front portion of the top portion being opened to reveal a constrained watch. The rear portion of the top portion is shown as having a hole large enough to accept the watch case when the two halves of the top portion are folded together and secured into a closed configuration. A series of hinges and/or hidden compartments may be created in the top portion for the purpose of restraining a timepiece or other article, such as a small music player, an example being an APPLE iPod Shuffle. A timepiece may also be concealed within the knot portion, as is shown in FIG. 13-B, which shows a knot portion as a single lobe that may be detached from the top portion and re-secured by magnetic connection. That single lobe may be hollowed or shaped to accept a small article, such as a watch.

In another embodiment, either the knot portion or the top portion may comprise a sound producing element. One example of the sound producing element is a speaker to be connected to a mobile telephone or a mobile computing device, for example to play music. Another example of a sound producing element is a set of chimes, tuned teeth, or plucked pins as one may find in a musicbox or luxury wristwatch, for example activated hourly to announce the time or when activated by the user. Another example is a quiet vibrating mechanism. In other embodiments, the sound producing element can be used to provide alerts, for example for incoming email messages, text messages, phone calls, alarms, and so on.

In the exemplary embodiments, where the knot portion or top portion are constructed of solid material, one appropriate method of construction is use of CAD software to model the components. Scanning, or 3D scanning, may be used on sculpted clay models or tied fabric in order to generate a draft CAD file. Once CAD files are created, the files can be used to create tool paths for machining, and the tool paths transferred to a multi-axis lathe to carve the components. 3D printing can also be used to construct portions of the assemblage. Further, a base CAD file can be used to illustrate the assemblage, but a consumer may then customize the dimensions (and/or materials) of the assemblage he desires to be constructed. For example, he may vary the dimensions of the knot portion (width at the top, width at the bottom, volume of the “knot”, curvature of the sides, and so on), the presence or absence of a dimple in the top portion, the length of the top portion, and so on.

In another embodiment the knot portion and/or the top portion may define a slot, recess or location to mechanically or magnetically affix one or more collar stays. The collar stays may be detached and used in a shirt collar.

In another embodiment the knot portion and/or the top portion may define a slot, recess, cavity or location to house a lighting element. The lighting element, for example a small LED lamp, may be connected to a power source for lighting. In one use, the lighting element may illuminate the knot portion and/or the top portion, or portions thereof. For example, the knot portion may be constructed of a semi-translucent material, such as stone, polymer, or glass, which may transmit some light from the lighting element. In another use, the lighting element may illuminate only certain portions of the knot portion or the top portion, such as their periphery. If an LED is used, the user may have ability to control the luminosity and color of the light with a set of controls. This set of controls may be integral to the necktie assemblage, or external to the assemblage, as one might construct with a portion of the controls comprising a mobile computing device application to control the lighting element and another portion of the controls comprising a wireless receiver to receive control signals.

In another embodiment, either the knot portion or the top portion comprise a hands-free communication device, as such communications devices are known in the mobile telephony art to pair with mobile telephones for hands-free mobile telephone use. Placement of a microphone in the knot portion, nearer the speaker's vocal chords, is advantageous over devices worn that place the microphone near the ear.

In another embodiment, the modular necktie further comprises one or more sensors to detect human biometric signs, for example heart rate monitoring sensors, body temperature sensors, and so on. The sensors may be configured to communicate, including wirelessly, with a computing device, including to store data. Other sensors include sensors for sensing biometric, atmospheric or location data, for example temperature, speed, acceleration, altitude, barometric pressure, GPS coordinates, and so on.

In another embodiment, the modular necktie further comprises an RFID chip, or other wireless communication device or antenna, for the purpose of communicating with other computing devices or systems. For example, such devices may facilitate point of sale purchase transactions or proximity-card type services. Proximity-card type services may be exemplified by identification verification, contactless payment systems, active or vicinity cards, access to secured facilities, fare cards, etc. Biometric sensors or vital sign sensors and collected data may be used in conjunction with the wireless communication device to provide a system for biometric identification, for example combining an average resting heart rate over a period of time with an electronic credential to provide a biometric identifier.

In another embodiment, the modular necktie further comprises a concealed mobile computing device, making the necktie a “smart” garment that has facility to communicate with other computing devices. For example, the mobile computing device may comprise memory, a CPU, a power source, and a wireless communication means to communicate with another device. For example, a body-worn mobile computing device, inconspicuously concealed within or appearing as the necktie garment, may communicate video display information to an external monitor, for example a wristwatch, mobile phone, tablet computer, kiosk, advertising wall, computer monitor, flat-screen television, and so on. Other external devices may communicate with the mobile computing device, for example a wireless keyboard. Alternately, sensors worn on the wrist, hands, or fingers, may be used, in communication with the necktie assemblage, to accomplish spatial gestures that may be used to interact with a computer. That is, the necktie assemblage may monitor the relative spatial position of the sensors with respect to the necktie assemblage to affect a series of gestures for use with a computer.

The features and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the present disclosure provides certain embodiments and applications, other embodiments that are apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, including embodiments, which do not provide all of the features and advantages set forth herein, are also within the scope of this disclosure.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or “a specific embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention and not necessarily in all embodiments. Thus, respective appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or “in a specific embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics of any specific embodiment of the present invention may be combined in any suitable manner with one or more other embodiments. It is to be understood that other variations and modifications of the embodiments of the present invention described and illustrated herein are possible in light of the teachings herein and are to be considered as part of the spirit and scope of the present invention.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The foregoing description of illustrated embodiments of the present invention, including what is described in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed herein. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the invention are described herein for illustrative purposes only, various equivalent modifications are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate. As indicated, these modifications may be made to the present invention in light of the foregoing description of illustrated embodiments of the present invention and are to be included within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Thus, while the present invention has been described herein with reference to particular embodiments thereof, a latitude of modification, various changes and substitutions are intended in the foregoing disclosures, and it will be appreciated that in some instances some features of embodiments of the invention will be employed without a corresponding use of other features without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as set forth. Therefore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the essential scope and spirit of the present invention. It is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, including the best mode or preferred embodiment(s) contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include any and all embodiments and equivalents falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A modular necktie comprising:

a collar portion;

a knot portion;

a top portion;

a bottom portion; and

at least one connecting fastener;

wherein said top portion and said bottom portion are separate pieces able to be connected with one another.

2. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein:

a connecting fastener, comprising a mechanical fastener or a magnetic fastener, connects said top portion and said bottom portion; or

a connecting fastener connects said knot portion and said top portion.

3. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein:

said knot portion and said top portion are integrally formed; or

said collar portion, said knot portion and said top portion are integrally formed.

4. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein:

said top portion is constructed of rigid or semi-rigid material and said bottom portion is constructed of pliable material.

5. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein:

a connecting fastener connects said top portion and said bottom portion; and

said connecting fastener or said top portion or said knot portion, or a combination thereof, comprises a means for restraining a device selected from the group comprising a mobile telephone, a camera, a video camera, and a mobile computing device.

6. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein:

the knot portion is constructed from a material selected from the group comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone, acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, and leather; and

the top portion is constructed from a material selected from the group comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone, acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, and leather.

7. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein:

said collar portion is a collar constructed of rigid or semi-rigid material selected from the group comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone, acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, and leather, and

said collar portion and said knot portion are magnetically connected or mechanically connected.

8. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein:

said knot portion, said top portion, or an integrally formed knot portion and top portion comprise an element selected from the group comprising a timekeeping element; a sound producing element; a mobile computing device; a hands-free communication device, or a part thereof; a microphone; at least one sensor for sensing biometric, atmospheric or location data; an RFID chip or other wireless communication device; and a lighting element comprising an LED element, a power source, and controls to alter the luminosity or color of said LED element.

9. A modular necktie comprising:

a collar portion,

a knot portion,

a top portion,

a first connector to connect said knot portion and said top portion,

a bottom portion, and

a second connector to connect said top portion and said bottom portion.

10. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said first connector or said second connector is a magnetic connector.

11. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said top portion comprises a through-hole for passage of a tie tack, cuff link, or jewelry button.

12. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said top portion comprises a front side and a back side; and

said top portion defines a pocket on the back side.

13. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

the knot portion is constructed from a material selected from the group comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone, acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, and leather; and

top portion is constructed from a material selected from the group comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone, acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, and leather.

14. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said second connector or said top portion or said knot portion, or a combination thereof, comprises a means for restraining a device selected from the group comprising a mobile telephone, a camera, a video camera, and a mobile computing device.

15. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said knot portion, said top portion, or a combination of said knot portion and said top portion, comprises a multimedia device selected from the group comprising a microphone, a camera lens, and a video camera lens.

16. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said knot portion defines a recess; and

a section of said top portion is constructed to mate with said knot portion via said recess.

17. The modular necktie of claim 9, further comprising:

an element selected from the group comprising a timekeeping element; a sound producing element; a mobile computing device; a hands-free communication device, or a part thereof; a microphone; at least one sensor for sensing biometric, atmospheric or location data; an RFID chip or other wireless communication device; and a lighting element comprising an LED element, a power source, and controls to alter the luminosity or color of said LED element.

18. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said knot portion comprises at least two parts;

a magnetic connection or mechanical connection mates said knot portion to said top portion.

19. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said knot portion connects to said top portion by magnetic connection or mechanical connection.

20. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein:

said knot portion, said top portion, or a combination of said knot portion and said top portion, help define a cavity, recess or location to mechanically or magnetically store one or more collar stays.

21. The modular necktie of claim 9, further comprising:

a wireless signal receiving element;

wherein: said knot portion, said top portion, or the combination of said knot portion and said top portion, help define a recess or location to house a lighting element; said lighting element comprises an LED element, a power source, and controls to alter the luminosity or color of said lighting element; and said controls comprise said wireless signal receiving element; and said controls comprise a wireless signal sending element separate from said necktie assemblage.

22. The modular necktie of claim 21, wherein:

said wireless signal sending element separate from said necktie assemblage comprises a mobile computing device and executable program code on non-transitory computer readable media, running on said mobile computing device, to send lighting element control signals.

23. A modular necktie kit comprising:

a plurality of knot portions,

a plurality of top portions,

a plurality of bottom portions,

and at least one connector to connect a top portion to a bottom portion, said at least one connector comprising a mechanical connector or magnetic connector.

24. The modular necktie kit of claim 23, further comprising:

a second connector to connect at least one knot portion with at least one top portion; wherein: said second connector is a magnetic connector or a mechanical connector.