CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS The present application is a continuation-in-part and claims priority to U.S. non-provisional application Ser. No. 12/148,359, filed on Apr. 13, 2008, which claims priority to provisional application 60/925,891, filed on Apr. 23, 2007, provisional application 60/925,892, filed on Apr. 23, 2007, provisional application 60/925,889, filed on Apr. 23, 2007, provisional application 60/925,866, filed on Apr. 23, 2007, provisional application 60/925,887, filed on Apr. 23, 2007, and provisional application 60/925,890, filed on Apr. 23, 2007. These references are hereby incorporated, in their entirety, by reference.
FIELD OF INVENTION This present invention relates to the field of pant cuff clips and hem protectors.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION The current fashion style is to wear pants loose and baggy, in increasingly larger sizes and longer lengths. This is a popular look in fashion clothing, particularly in urban culture. However, wearing baggy pants does pose some problems. The hem of the pants frequently gets wet and dirty, and a safety hazard often exists due to tripping over excessively loose and long pant hems. There exists a need for a hem protector that raises the hem above the rim of the shoe to prevent it from being soiled.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION The present invention is directed to a pants cuff clamp that allows the user to wear the posterior side of the pant leg cuff above the rim of the back of the shoe to prevent the pant cuff from becoming soiled, damaged, wet, or creating a safety hazard. The double dual shoe to pant hem protector clip clamp has a clamping component on each end of this device. One clamp component attaches to the top back rim of the back of a shoe or boot heel. The other clamp component attaches to the back hem of a pair of pants. There may be cushioning attached to the side of the clip facing the leg. The device therefore, enables the back of the pants to be held and lifted above ground level. This helps prevent the pant hems from getting soiled and damaged from dragging on the ground. It may also help to prevent accidental tripping over the excessively loose fabric. The double clamp device may be worn on one or both pant leg hems. This relatively small and portable device can be adapted to most baggy pants and/or shoes and boots. In addition, the device may be used by a wide and diverse group of individuals, and crosses age and gender barriers. This device is unique in that it eliminates the need for multiple devices necessary to attach pants to the back of a shoe. Instead of needing two or more gadgets or devices to attach the hem of pants onto the top of a shoe, the task can be accomplished by utilizing the dual clamp. In addition, the dual clamp is constructed with various interchangeable components that will enable the wearer to add versatility and pizzazz to their wardrobe.
The main function of the dual clamp is to connect the pant hem to the shoe heel rim or edge. However, another equally integral component of this device is that of a fashion accessory product. The basic clamp device may have little or no decoration. On the other hand, the device can be extensively and ornately embellished on the surface area of the device. In addition, the device can be adapted to accommodate additional external and separate paraphernalia to enhance the appearance of the device and add whimsy. These additional external components can be attached to the dual clamp device by means of magnets, double sided sticky tape, Velcro, screws, tensile clips and other forms or methods of attachment. The attachments may be permanent or temporary. The double dual clamp is a complete unit. It is comprised of an upper clamp component as well as a lower clamp component. An exemplary embodiment of the device is the capability to disconnect and reconnect at key points between the two separate clamp components. This may or may not include the use of connector elements. The components may be connected or disconnected upon the wearer's discretion. The device can therefore, function as one complete unit; or it can be temporarily de-constructed into two distinct components which continue to have clamping capability, as well as decorative function. The wearer can utilize only one of the components at a time, or both of them. However, maximum functionality and ornamentation may be achieved when both the upper and lower components are used. The device has great versatility. The double dual shoe to pant hem protector clip clamp can therefore be functional, as well as an interesting fashion accessory device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a back view of double dual shoe to hem clip clamp that is embellished with crystals (6). The lower clamp (2) is attached to the top edge of a shoe (4) and has an upper clamp (1) that is holding a pant leg (3) hem (5).
FIG. 2 is a side view of double clip in which the lower clamp (8) is attached to back of shoe (11), and the upper clamp (7) is holding up pant hem (13). A connector strip (10) is positioned along one side, and a cushion strip (12) is positioned over it. There are crystals (9) on the outer surface area.
FIG. 3 is a metal small fulcrum clamp
FIG. 4 is a wooden clothespin fulcrum clamp
FIG. 5 is an office paper clamp—metal
FIG. 6 is an office paper clamp
FIG. 7 is a plastic paper clamp
FIG. 8A is a side view of a small metal clamp—closed
FIG. 8B is a side view of a small metal clamp—open
FIG. 8C is a bottom view of a small metal clamp
FIG. 8D is a top view of a small metal clamp
FIG. 9A is a side view of double metal fulcrum clamp consisting of an upper clamp (14), a lower clamp (16), and the shared/joined surface are (15).
FIG. 9B is a side view—lower clamp open
FIG. 9C is a side view—both clamps open
FIG. 10A is a side view single wood clamp—closed
FIG. 10B is a side view clamp open
FIG. 10C is a bottom view
FIG. 10D is a top view
FIG. 11 A is a side view double wood clamp consisting of an upper clamp (17) and a lower clamp (19) and a joined/shared area (18). Both clamps are in the closed position.
FIG. 11 B is a side view—upper clamp open
FIG. 11C is a side view—both clamps open
FIG. 12 is a double wood clamp positioned parallel and facing in opposite directions. There is a joined surface area (20) between them.
FIG. 13 is a side view of two clamps positioned in staggered position on top of each other facing opposite directions, and having a joined/shared area (21).
FIG. 14 is a side view of two clamps positioned together on inside surfaces of one lever each, and sharing a common surface area (22).
FIG. 15 is a side view of two clamps positioned end to end at the tips of levers, and sharing a common surface area (23).
FIG. 16A is a side view of a long connector strip
FIG. 16 B is a bottom view of a long connector strip
FIG. 16C is a side view of a short connector
FIG. 16D is a bottom view of a short connector
FIG. 17A is a side view of a long coil connector
FIG. 17B is a side view of a short connector coil
FIG. 18A is a side view of a cushioned padded strip
FIG. 18B is a bottom of a view long cushioned padded strip
FIG. 19 is a side view of a double metal clamps on one connector strip
FIG. 20 is a side view of a double clamp on one connector strip
FIG. 21 is a side view of a double metal clamps with connector strips (24) on top and bottom.
FIG. 22 is a side view of a double clamp with connector strips on top and bottom
FIG. 23 is a side view of a double metal clamps with a shorter connector strip (25) spanning inside area between clamps.
FIG. 24 is a side view of double clamps with connector strip spanning inside area between clamps
FIG. 25 is a side view of double metal clamps with connectors (26) on lever tips
FIG. 26 is a side view of a double clothespin clamp with connectors on lever tips
FIG. 27 is a side view of metal double clamps with a coil connector (27) spanning inside area between clamps.
FIG. 28 is a side of a view double clamp with coil spanning inside area between clamps
FIG. 29A is a side view of a double metal clamps with joined/shared surface (28).
FIG. 29B is a side view of a double metal clamp with joined surface that also has cushion strip (29) on one fully exposed surface.
FIG. 30A is a side view double metal clamp utilizing connector strip (30).
FIG. 30B is a side view of a double metal clamps utilizing connector strips and cushion strip (31).
FIG. 31A is a side view of double clamps with shared joined area (32).
FIG. 31B is a side view of a double clothespin clamps with shared/joined area and utilizing cushion strip (33).
FIG. 32A is a side view of a double clothespin clamp utilizing connector strip (34).
FIG. 32B is a side view of a double clothespin clamp utilizing connector strip and cushion strip (35).
FIG. 33 is a side view of a double clothespin clamp utilizing one small and one large clamp, and connector strip (36).
FIG. 34 is a side view of a double clamp in which the smaller clamp is situated on inside lever of larger clamp-shared surface (37).
FIG. 35 is a side view of a double clamp where the smaller clamp is situated on the outer surface of larger clamp (38).
FIG. 36 is a side view of a double clamp where larger and smaller clamps are connected at lever tips by connector component (39).
FIG. 37A is a side view of clothespin double clamp with shared surface and cushion strip 40), and crystals (41) on top.
FIG. 37B is a bottom view of a double clothespin clamp that has cushioning on the upper clamp (42).
FIG. 37C is a top view of a double clothespin cushion clamp featuring crystal embellishments (43) on the top clamp and crystals on the bottom (44) clamp surfaces.
FIG. 38 A is a side view of a double clothespin clamp with connector strip (45), cushion strip (46), and crystal embellishments (47).
FIG. 38B is a bottom view of a double clothespin clamp with cushion strip (48).
FIG. 38C is a top view of a double clothespin clamp in which the upper clamp (49) is embellished with crystals (52) and there is a space (51) between the upper and lower (50) clamps.
FIG. 39A is a side view of a double clothespin clamp with shared/joined surface areas on the lever tips (54). There is cushioning (53) on one side, and crystals (55) on the other side of the device.
FIG. 39B is a bottom view of a double clothespin clamp with cushioning on the outer surface (56).
FIG. 39C is a top view of double clothespin clamp with crystal embellishments (57).
FIG. 40A is a side view of a double clothespin clamp with disc panel (58) attached to outer surface area, and adhesive (59), which might consist of: double sided sticky tape, or Velcro or glue, between the disc and the upper clamp.
FIG. 40B is a top view of a double clothespin clamp with disc panel (60) attached to the bottom clamp (61) outer surface.
FIG. 41 is a partial side view of a double clothespin clamp with magnet (62) attached so that the panel (63) can then be attached to the clamp.
FIG. 42 is a partial side view of double clothespin clamp with magnetized surface (64) for attachment of panel (66) with a magnet (65) attached to it.
FIG. 43 is a partial side view of a double clothespin clamp that has magnet (67) affixed to it for attachment to disc panel (69) that also has magnet (68) attached to it.
FIG. 44A is a side view of a double clothespin clamp with connector strip (71), cushion strip (70), magnet (72), panel (73), and crystal (74).
FIG. 44B is a top view of a double clamp with disc (75) on the top clamp, and crystals (76) on bottom clamp.
FIG. 44C is a bottom view of a double clothespin clamp with panel (77) attached to one surface, and cushioning (78) on the bottom surface.
FIG. 45 is a side view of a double clothespin clamp that is attached to top of heel edge (83) utilizing a top connector strip (79) on one side, and a bottom connector strip (80) on the other side. The device also has cushioning (82) and crystals (81).
FIG. 46 is a side view of a shoe that has a dual clamp attached to the rim (85). It also has cushioning (84), magnets attached to the upper clamp (87), a panel (86), and crystal embellishments (88).
FIG. 47 is a back view of a pant leg (90) and a double clothespin clamp attached to back of shoe at the rim (92). The pant hem is being held in the upper clamp.
FIG. 48 is a back view of double clamp with panel attached to back shoe heel rim (95) and with pant hem (94) in the top clamp (93).
FIG. 49A is a rectangular shaped panel
FIG. 49B is a round shape
FIG. 49C is a heart shape
FIG. 49D is a hexagon shape
FIG. 49E is a squiggle shape
FIG. 49F is a triangular shape
FIG. 50A is a photo on disc
FIG. 50B is logos on disc
FIG. 50C are initials on disc
FIG. 50D are symbols on disc
FIG. 50E is bling on disc
FIG. 50F are designs on disc
FIG. 51 is a side e view of a double clamp with panels (96) attached by magnets (97).
FIG. 52 is a back view of a double clamp attached to back of shoe heel edge (99), featuring panel disc (98) on the upper clamp, and crystals (100) on the lower clamp.
FIG. 53 is a side view of double metal lower clamp (102) attached to back of shoe heel edge holding pant hem in top clamp (101).
FIG. 54 is a side view of a double clamp attached to shoe heel edge (105) and holding pant hem in top clamp (103). They are joined at a shared surface area (104).
FIG. 55 is a side view of two wooden clamps in staggered position that are joined with adhesive (106) such as Velcro, double sided sticky tape.
FIG. 56 is a side view of separated clamps
FIG. 57 is a back view of upper clamp holding pant hem
FIG. 58 is a side view of decorative panel with Velcro or adhesive (107) on back.
FIG. 59 is a back view of panel attached to lower clamp
FIG. 60 is a side view —parallel position—panel on one surface, cushion on another surface, and adhesive (108) between the two clips.
FIG. 61 is a side view of separated clamps
FIG. 62 is a top view of a panel attached to upper clamp
FIG. 63 is a back view of lower clamp on shoe rim that has Velcro or adhesive on the outer surface. (109).
FIG. 64 is a side view of a lower clamp on shoe rim
FIG. 65 is a back view of heart shaped panel/disc with Velcro or adhesive (110) on the back.
FIG. 66 is a back view of a lower clamp on the back of a shoe. The clamp has Velcro or adhesive on the outer surface (111).
FIG. 67 is a back view of shoe with heart disc attached to lower clamp surface
FIG. 68 is a coiled connector component
FIG. 69 is a coiled connector with a female adaptor (112), and a male adaptor (113) on the ends.
FIG. 70 is a side view of metal clamp with male adapter end
FIG. 71 is a side view of metal clamp with coil connector
FIG. 72 is a back view of upper clamp with male adaptor attached to pant hem
FIG. 73 is a coiled connector with male and female ends
FIG. 74 is a back view of shoe with lower clamp on rim
FIG. 75 is a double metal clamp with tubular connector component
FIG. 76 is an angled view of tubular connector component with a female end (114).
FIG. 77 is a magnified view of female adaptor end
FIG. 78 is a side view of a metal clamp with male adaptor end
FIG. 79 is a rear angled view of metal clamp with male adaptor end (115).
FIG. 80 is a side view of metal clamp with tubular connector component
FIG. 81 is a side view of upper clamp on pant hem
FIG. 82 is a tubular connector component
FIG. 83 is a view of lower clamp on shoe rim
FIG. 84 is a side view of wooden upper clamp
FIG. 85 is a back angled view of upper clamp with female end (116).
FIG. 86 is a side view of wooden lower clamp with a tensile male adaptor end (117).
FIG. 87 is a side view of lower clamp with male end inserted in female end of upper clamp
FIG. 88 is a side view of upper clamp on pant hem
FIG. 89 is a side view of lower clamp on shoe rim with male adaptor
FIG. 90 is a side view of wooden clamp with female adaptor on lever
FIG. 91 is a rear angle view of wood clamp with female adaptor component (118).
FIG. 92 is a side view of wooden clamp and detached tubular connector with a male end (119).
FIG. 93 is a side view of wood clamp with attached connector (120) that is attached to a female component.
FIG. 94 is a back view of upper clamp on pant hem
FIG. 95 is a tubular connector component with male adaptors on both ends (121).
FIG. 96 is a back view of shoe with lower clamp on rim
FIG. 97 is a back view of shoe, clamp and pant hem. There is a space (122) between the upper and lower clamps showing the connector component.
FIG. 98 is a back view of upper clamp on pant hem
FIG. 99 is a connector disconnected from both clamps—not used in this configuration
FIG. 100 is a back view of lower clamp on shoe rim
FIG. 101 is a front view of decorative additional tassle ornament with a male adaptor end (123).
FIG. 102 is a tassle attached to upper clamp
FIG. 103 is a tassle attached to upper clamp (124)—no clamp on shoe rim.
FIG. 104 is a front view of additional car ornament with a male adaptor (125).
FIG. 105 is a car ornament attached to upper clamp
FIG. 106 is a back view of car ornament attached to the back of a pant hem (126).—No shoes worn in this view.
FIG. 107 is a front view additional heart ornament with male adaptor end (127).
FIG. 108 is a heart ornament attached to lower clamp
FIG. 109 is a back view of heart ornament attached to lower clamp (128). No baggy pants worn in this view.
FIG. 110 are examples of various additional ornaments with male adaptor ends-
FIG. 110A symbols
FIG. 110B logos
FIG. 110C bling, jewels
FIG. 110D toy
FIG. 110 E photos, or left blank to customize
FIG. 111 back view of device utilizing upper and lower clamps
FIG. 112 back view of upper clamp on pant hem only
FIG. 113 back view of lower clamp on shoe rim only
FIG. 114 back view of upper clamp on pant hem only, with additional bling added (129).
FIG. 115 back view of lower clamp on shoe rim only; with additional toy attached to lower clamp (130).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION Specifications for the double dual shoe to pant hem protector clip clamp device that can attach to the back rim edge of a shoe or boot and additionally and simultaneously attaches to the back hem of a pair of pants. It is important to note that the dual clamp is one entity; but has two distinct clamp mouths/heads, each one pointing in opposite direction of the other. The double dual clamp is one entity. When aligned vertically, the device consists of an upper and a lower clamp. Although the device is considered as one unit; the clamps may be either permanently or temporarily joined as one unit. The double/dual clamp heads are the integral components of the device. There may be cushioning attached to the side of the clamp that rubs against the user leg.
An exemplary embodiment of the dual clamp includes a cushioned and padded comfort strip and or area made of foam, soft material, or other substance which helps prevent chaffing against the wearer's leg or heel. The comfort cushioned padding may be permanently attached, or removable and renewable. Another embodiment is the use of connector strips or components which help to align and/or secure both clips together. These connectors can be very short, or longer. They can be flat, tubular, or made of coiled substance. They can be separately attached components, or integrally incorporated into the main body of the device. Another exemplary embodiment is the joining or attachment of shared surface areas to connect one clamp component to the other clamp component on the device. There are many possible configurations for conjoining the components into one unique device. Because a wide variety of substance materials and manufacturing techniques can be used in the construction of the device; the shared joined surface portions may be discrete. In another embodiment, the device can be constructed to allow the upper and lower clamps to be disconnected from each other at the discretion of the wearer. The device may disconnect at the temporarily joined/shared surface area. The device may also disconnect at the conductor component area. In one exemplary embodiment, the connector may have various male or female adaptor ends hat correspond to male and female components incorporated into the clamps themselves. The device should be constructed of material that is waterproof, rustproof, colorfast, and as lightweight as possible. The device may be constructed using wood, plastic, metal, material, or a combination of those materials. The kinds of double dual clamp embellishments and ornamentations are as unlimited as one's imagination.
The illustrations and list of exemplary embodiment pages are to help convey the root conceptual idea of this invention; and to help one visualize the diverse configurations and customized variations that are within the scope of the idea. These illustrations and embodiments are not intended to limit the scope and/or spirit of the idea in any way. The illustrations are not to scale. For illustration purposes, I have relied heavily on the use of the small metal and the wooden pin fulcrum style clamps. The rudimentary depictions in the illustrations do not limit or prevent the use of other more functional materials and modifications of shape and size as necessary to produce the manufactured finished product. The basic concept is a double clamp device in which the clamps are positioned at opposite ends, and/or facing in the opposite direction. The device needs a north/south orientation to facilitate holding the pant hem and the top of the shoe rim simultaneously.
Urban fashions have been popular for years. The two mainstays of this fashion style are designer tennis shoes and boots, and baggy designer pants. The double dual shoe to pant hem protector clip clamp device facilitates holding the pant hem above ground level and also adds a decorative feature to the back of the shoe and pant hem area. It holds up the pant leg so that more of the shoe can be seen. The device can be highly embellished with expensive, or inexpensive materials. The device can be customized per gender and age. The dual clamp device should be affordable on a large scale, portable, comfortable against the body, and easy to use. The double shoe to pant hem protector clip clamp should be fun and stylish to wear. It should be as diverse and individual as we all are.
The double dual shoe to pant hem protector clip clamp FIG. 1 is worn/attached to the back of the top rim (4) of a shoe or boot, with the lower clamp (2). The upper clamp (1) holds the hem (5) of the pants (3) securely above the ground level. Embellishments such as crystals (6) can be added, or incorporated into the clamp surface. Many other embellishments, colors and textures can be used.
The double shoe to pant hem clip clamp as shown in FIG. 2, is attached to the top rim of a shoe (11) with a lower clamp (8). The pant hem (13) is held securely by the upper clamp (7). In this embodiment, a cushioned padded strip or area (12) helps to protect the portion of the body that comes in contact with the clamp. The turgid, strong, but flexible connector strip (10) joins both clamps into one unit. The top (7) and bottom (8) clamps may be joined by such that there is no need for the flexible connector strip (10) because the part of the clip that is attached to the flexible connector strip is just one side of a clip with top and bottom clamps, which may still have padding on the backside facing the user. Crystal embellishments may (9) adorn the top of the clamp. There are many versions of the basic fulcrum clamp. FIG. 3 is a small metal office clamp. FIG. 4 is a wooden clothespin type clamp. FIG. 5 is a wider metal office clamp, which sometimes has a magnet attached to it. FIG. 6 is a more modern version of a fulcrum clamp that is made of metal. FIG. 7 is an updated plastic version of the wooden clamp. The double shoe to pant hem protector clamp embodies the basic concept and function of these traditional popular types of clamps. For illustration purposes, I have used depictions of various configurations using mostly the small metal clamp and the wooden clamp. Cost, ease or difficulty in production and viability of materials would dictate the final construction features and materials used for the device. Substance materials used for construction of the clamp device may be metals, wood, plastic, PVC, rubber, acrylic, or other suitable material that may not have been listed here.
It is important to visualize the clamps from different angles in order to show the progression from a single clamp to a double clamp device. FIG. 8a is a side view of a basic metal clamp in a closed position. FIG. 8b shows the clamp in an open position. FIG. 8c is a bottom view of the clamp, and FIG. 8d is the top view of the same clamp. FIG. 9a illustrates a configuration where the upper clamp (14) has a joined/shared surface area (15) with the lower clamp (16). Note that the nose/mouth of the clamps face in opposite directions. FIG. 9b shows a double clamp with the upper clamp open, and FIG. 9c shows both clamps in an open position. The dual clamps may be manufactured as one unit, rather than by joining two separately manufactured clamps.
Another embodiment using a closed basic wooden clamp is shown in FIG. 10a. FIG. 10b shows clamp in open position. FIG. 10c shows the bottom of the clamp, and FIG. 10d show the top of the clamp. FIG. 11a shows an upper wooden clamp (17) that has been joined to and shares surface area (18) with the lower clamp (19). FIG. 11b shows the upper clamp in open position, and FIG. 11c shows both clamps open. Clamp mouth/heads are in opposite directions so that on clamp head/mouth can attach to a shoe and the other clamp head attaches to the pant hem. In FIG. 12, the clamps are joined (20) parallel of each other—side by side. FIG. 13 shows the clamps joined (21) in a parallel, but staggered position. FIG. 14 illustrates joining (22) one lever arm inside surface to the inside surface of another lever arm. FIG. 15 shows the clamps joined at the very tips (23) of their lever arms. The dual clamps may be manufactured as one unit, rather than by joining two separately manufactured clamps.
In some cases, it may be desirable to join one clamp to the other via a connector strip or medium. This strip should be turgid, strong, stiff, and sturdy enough to stay upright so that it can hold the pant hem above ground level. The connector strip/medium should also be flexible enough, and have enough give, so that it would not accidently cause injury to the wearer's body. FIG. 16a is a side view, and FIG. 16b is a front view of a connector strip. The strip could be constructed of plastic, rubber, PVC, acrylic, etc. The connector could be of various thicknesses and colors, or decor. FIG. 16c shows a shorter side view, and FIG. 16d shows the front view. Instead of a connector strip, a sturdy coil FIG. 17A and FIG. 17b may be used. FIG. 18a shows a side view of a cushioned padded strip or piece of padding. FIG. 18b shows the back view of the cushioned padded strip or piece. The cushioned padded strip or piece may or may not be used in conjunction with a connector strip. The connector strips and the cushioned padded strips/pieces may or may not be linear in form. The shape will ultimately be dictated by the shape of the surface area it is covering. The term strip has been loosely applied to this component.
FIG. 23 and FIG. 24 show the connector strip (25) spanning the area within and between the two clamps. FIG. 25 and FIG. 25 show how very short connector pieces (26) can be used to join the clamps together. The connector pieces may be manufactured to make the clip one entity. Connector pieces may be inflexible or made of a flexible material to allow movement.
FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 show the employment of coiled (27) connector pieces used to join the two clamps components together into one device. In FIG. 29a, two metal clamps are joined/share the same surface area (28). They may be manufactured as one unit. FIG. 29B shows one view of possible placement of a cushioned padded strip (29). The cushioned strip may be manufactured permanently to the side of the clamp that would come in contact with the wearer's skin. The cushioned strip may also be removable and not permanently attached to the clip. FIG. 30a shows the metal clamps joined using a connector strip. FIG. 30b shows the cushioned padded strip (31) has been added onto the bottom to the connector strip. The shape of the bottom surface area of the clamp that comes in contact with the skin will dictate to a large extent the size and shape of the cushioned padded area. FIG. 31a shows a wooden clamp in similar configuration as the previous metal clamps. The clamps have a joined/shared surface area (32), but no cushion. In FIG. 31b, there is a cushioned padding (33) on one exposed lever arm surface. FIG. 32a shows two clamps joined by connector strip (34). The cushioned padding is placed on the bottom of the connector strip in FIG. 32b. Padding with peel off adhesive may be used. The cushioned padding may also be manufactured permanently on the back of the connector strip.
FIG. 33 through FIG. 36 show double clamps that utilize one larger and one smaller clamp. FIG. 33 shows a large and a small clamp joined with a connector strip (36). FIG. 34 shows a smaller clamp joined to the inside surface area (37) of a larger clamp. In FIG. 35, the smaller clamp is attached (38) to the outer surface area of a larger clamp. In FIG. 36, the larger and small clamps are joined using very short connector strips (39). The clips may be manufactured as on unit, including the connector strip, or that may be manufactured as separate entities that are then joined. The double clamp in FIG. 37a has a cushioned padded strip (40) on one lever surface and crystal embellishment (41) on two other lever surfaces.
FIG. 37b shows a bottom view of the cushioned padded strip (42) on the upper clamp. The padding may also be extended to curl into the inside of the clip to protect the wearer from rubbing against the top edge of the clip. FIG. 37c displays crystals (43) on the upper clamp, and crystals (44) on the lower clamp surfaces. The outer surfaces of the clamps may be embellished with other objects or textures besides crystals. Other embellishments might include, but not be limited to the use of shells, coins, fabric, stone, wood, discs, photos, toys, indicia, logos, symbols, jewelry, ornamentation designs, or it may be left intentionally blank so that the wearer can customize it themselves.
FIG. 38a shows the relative position of the connector strip (45) and the cushion strip (46 and the crystal embellishments 47). The cushioned padded strip (48) in FIG. 38b may be permanently adhered to the surface of the clip; or attached in a semi-permanent manner using sticky adhesive that allows the strip to be removed or replaced. FIG. 38c shows a top view of the upper clamp (49) portion and the lower clamp (50) portion and the space between the clamps (51), and the crystals (52) along the surface. The double clamp may be configured in a way to make one linear device with clamps on each end. FIG. 39a shows the cushioned padded strip (53) along the entire length of the outer surface of the double clamp. The upper and lower clamps are joined near the middle (54) of the device. Note that the connector strip does not necessarily have to be used to join two clamps together. Crystals (55) adorn the other outer surface areas. FIG. 39b shows the back view of the double clamp that utilizes a cushioned padded strip (56) on the bottom of the device. FIG. 39c shows the placement of crystals (57) in a continuous line along the top surface of the device.
Embellishments other than crystals can be used to decorate the surface areas of the clamps. FIG. 40a shows the side view of a panel/disc (58) that has been attached (glued, double sticky tape, Velcro, attached with a magnet) (59) to one of the clamp surfaces. Attachments could be either permanent or temporary, depending on the materials used for adhesion. FIG. 40b shows the front view of the disc (60) and lower clamp top surface (61). The double shoe to pant hem clip clamp device may employ the use of magnets to attach additional ornamentation onto the device. The use of magnets allows the flexibility of interchanging discs or other ornamentation at will. Ornaments could be obtained or purchased separately and additionally from the basic double clamping device. The ornaments can attach to the clamp using sticky tape or adhesive, magnets, Velcro, or using other methods. FIG. 41 is a side view of an upper clamp that has a magnet (62) attached to the upper clamp. A magnetized disc 63) can now be attached to the magnet. In FIG. 42, the clamp (64) has been magnetized and the disc (66) has a magnet (65) attached to it. In FIG. 43, the clamp has a magnet (67) attached to the surface and the disc (69) has a magnet (68) attached to it. Various magnetized disks can be manufactured and purchased separately to allow interchangeability.
FIG. 44a shows a side view of a double clamp device that has a cushioned padding area (70) and a connector strip (71) and employs the use of either adhesive substance or magnet (72) to attach a decorative disc/panel (73). The lower clamp has an embellished surface (74). FIG. 44b shows the front view of the device with a panel/disc (75) attached to the upper clamp, and decorative crystals (76) on the lower clamp. FIG. 44c shows the back of view of the device and panel disc (77) and the cushioned padding on the bottom surface (78).
The illustrations provided are not to scale or proportional to the shoes. The double clamp device may be approximately one inch in length at it's smallest size, up to several inches in length. In FIG. 45, the double clamp has a top connector strip (79), bottom connector strip (80) and crystal embellishments along the length of the top surface (81). The lower clamp is attached to the back top shoe heel rim (83) and has cushioning (82) on that side. FIG. 46 shows a double clamp with cushioning (84) attached to the back top shoe heel rim (85). A decorative panel/disc (86) has been attached to the upper clamp by means of (adhesive, magnet, Velcro, etc) (87). Crystals (88) embellish the lower clamp surface.
The purpose of the double dual shoe to hem clip clamp is to hold pant hem above ground level to prevent soiling and damage. FIG. 47 shows the clamp device (89) that is attached to the back rim of a shoe (92). The pant leg (90) hem (91) is held securely above ground level. FIG. 48 shows the lower clamp of the double clamp device attached to the back of the shoe rim (95). The pant hem is held in place by the upper clamp (94). There is a decorative disc (93) on the upper clamp.
The disc/panels and ornaments may be of various sizes and colors, shapes, dimensions, texture and material. Some exemplary embodiments are shown in FIG. 49. Samples of shapes are: FIG. 49a rectangle, FIG. 49b, circle, FIG. 49c, heart, FIG. 49d hexagon, FIG. 49e squiggle, and FIG. 49f triangle. These ornaments may be composed of plastic, rubber, wood, metal, pvc, stone, paper, fabric or other substance. As seen in FIG. 50, the outer surfaces may be decorated with FIG. 50a photos, FIG. 50b, logos, FIG. 50c initials, FIG. 50d symbols, FIG. 50e bling, and FIG. 50f designs. There are almost infinite decorating options. These illustrations show only a few embodiments and in no way limit or restrict other possible ornamentation. The idea is to have one device that simultaneously connects the shoe to the back of a pant hem. The device provides function and adds fashion.
FIG. 51 is a side view of a double dual clamp that has a disc panel/ornament (96) attached to the upper clamp portion via the use of (magnet, adhesive, Velcro, etc) (97) or other viable attachment medium. FIG. 52 shows a front view of a double clamp that is attached to the top rim of a shoe heel (99). The device has a heart shaped panel (98) attached to the upper clamp and ornamentation (100) on the lower clamp. FIG. 53 shows another embodiment of a double clip clamp configuration. The lower clamp (102) is attached to the rim of the shoe heel. The pant hem is held in place by the upper clamp (101). FIG. 54 shows a double dual clamp that is holding the pant hem in the upper clamp (103). There is a shared/joined surface area between the two clamps. The lower clamp (105) is attached to the back rim of the shoe heel.
The double/dual shoe to pant hem protector clip/clamp device is one complete unit that is comprised of two clamping components that can function jointly as a connecting device between pant hem and shoe. In other exemplary embodiments, the device may be temporarily disconnected in part so that the clamps may function in other capacity independently of each other. The following exemplary embodiments will show how this may be accomplished. The illustrations and suggested materials listed in no way limit use, or prohibit other modifications necessary to manufacture and implement the final device. The illustrations are to help one visualize the extended functionality of the device that is still within the unique and original concept of the idea.
FIG. 55 shows a side view of a wooden clamp device in a staggered position that has been joined (106) along common shared surfaces which have adhesive element such as Velcro, double sided sticky tape, use of magnets, etc. FIG. 56 shows how the device can be disconnected. In FIG. 57, the upper clamp component has been placed on the pant hem. In this embodiment, the upper clamp can function independently from the lower clamp; and maintains the ability to hold the pant hem above the ground. The entire device, and/or the individual clamping components of the dual clamp may be constructed to allow additional and separate ornamentation to be attached to the clamps by use of magnets, adhesive elements, screws, tension clips, or other methods. This allows for interchanging ornamentation embellishments so that the device may be used as a clothing accessory item. The ornaments may be changed by the wearer to accentuate whatever clothes or shoes they are wearing.
FIG. 58 is a side view of a decorative panel with adhesive (107) or a magnet on the surface. FIG. 59 shows how the decorative panel is placed on the lower clamp component. The lower clamp is being worn in this embodiment strictly as a decorative feature on the back of the shoe, and functions as such.
FIG. 60 is a side view of a wooden dual clamp in which has been aligned in an equally parallel position, and shares common surfaces (108). FIG. 61 reveals an adhesive element or magnet on one of the surfaces of each clamp component. One clamp has a disc on it, and the other clamp has padding one on one side. In FIG. 62, the upper clamp has been attached to a pant hem; and is functioning independently to secure the pant hem. This configuration may not function as well; or be as esthetically pleasing as when attached to the lower clamp and functioning as the complete device. Nevertheless, it is an option. FIG. 63 shows the lower clamp attached to the back of a shoe. It has adhesive element (109) on the outer surface. FIG. 64 is a side view of a decorative panel. FIG. 65 is a back view of a heart shaped decorative panel that has an adhesive element strip (110) or magnet on the bottom surface. FIG. 66 shows the lower clamp that has adhesive on the surface (111), attached to a shoe heel rim. In FIG. 67, the heart shaped panel has been affixed to the lower clamp and functions independently as a decorative embellishment for the shoe. Therefore, while being used independently, some of the functionality has been reduced, as it no longer secures a pant hem in this configuration.
There are various methods of conjoining and detaching the two clamping components which comprise the dual clamp device. The following embodiments are suggestions, but in no way limit other configuration methods or techniques. FIG. 68 is a coil connector component. FIG. 69 shows coil that has been adapted with a female (112) end, and also a male end (113). The connector component need not be a coil, it may be a rod. FIG. 70 is a side view of a small metal clamp that has a male end component. FIG. 71 shows the female end of a coil connector that has been attached to the male end of a clamp. Two clamps may also be connected together using male and female parts. FIG. 72 shows an upper clamp that has a male end component that is capable of connecting to the female end of a coil connector in FIG. 73. In FIG. 73, the coil connector may also be a rod connector. This coil can then be connected to the lower clamp that is attached to a shoe rim in FIG. 74. The upper clamp in FIG. 72 may be attached directly to the clamp in FIG. 73 using male and female parts or screws as connectors. The upper and lower clamps, as well as the connector components and extra embellishment items may be adapted with various universally interchangeable adaptor end pieces. Configurations are not limited to illustrations. Illustrations are not to scale or proportion.
FIG. 75 is a side view of a dual clamp with a tubular connector. FIG. 76 is a front angle view of a tubular connector that has a female receptor adapter end (114). FIG. 77 is a magnified view of the internal threading of the female end of a tubular connector. FIG. 78 is a side view of a clamp component with a male end. FIG. 79 is a back angled view of a clamp with a male end component (115). FIG. 80 demonstrates how the tubular connector attaches (screws) onto the clamp component. FIG. 81 is a side view of an upper clamp that is attached to a pant hem. FIG. 82 is the tubular connector that facilitates attachment to the lower clamp in FIG. 83. In this embodiment, it is easy to see how the dual clamp is one device consisting of two clamp components; and which may utilize a connector component to join them together. This allows the unit to be temporarily separated. In some configurations, the unit may not need a connector device, and may be permanently joined.
FIG. 84 is a side view of a wooden upper clamp. FIG. 85 is a back angled view of the same clamp which has a female adaptor end (116). FIG. 86 is a side view of the lower clamp that has a male tensile element protrusion on one end (117). FIG. 87 shows the male end of the lower clamp which can be inserted into the female end of the upper clamp. This allows the two clamp components to be joined or separated at will. FIG. 88 is a side view of an upper clamp with a female end that has been attached to a pant hem. FIG. 89 is a side view of a lower clamp with a male end that has been attached to a shoe heel rim. Because the upper and lower clamps have male and female parts, they can be connected to various different clamps, which will allow the user great fashion diversity to coordinate with their outfits. Male and female parts can fasten together in the same fashion as a screw and a washer, or a clip and fasten device. FIG. 90 is a side view of a wooden upper clamp. FIG. 91 is a rear angled view of a clamp that has a female receptor adaptor on it (118). The clamp in FIG. 92 is capable of accepting the tubular connector (119) which has a male adaptor end. FIG. 93 shows a side view of the clamp that has a tubular connector attached (120). FIG. 94 shows the back view of an upper clamp attached to a pant hem. FIG. 95 is a tubular connector with male adaptor ends (121). FIG. 96 is a back view of a lower clamp that has been attached to the rim of a shoe. FIG. 97 is the back view of a dual clamp in which the bottom clamp is attached to the back of a shoe. The clamps are joined with a connector (122). The upper clamp is holding the pant hem above ground level.
FIG. 98 is a back view of an embellished clamp that is securing a pant hem. This upper clamp is being used independently of the lower; and is functioning as a pant hem protector as well as a decorative accessory. In FIG. 99, this tubular connector is not being utilized by either the upper or lower clamps. In FIG. 100, the lower clamp is embellished, and is attached to the shoe rim. It functions as a decorative accessory.
An exemplary embodiment is the attachment of additional extra forms of embellishment onto the disconnected and independently functioning upper or lower clamp components. FIG. 101 is a front view of an additional separate decorative embellishment ornament that has been equipped with a male (or female) end adaptor (123). FIG. 102 shows how this additional ornament can be attached to an already embellished upper or lower clamp. This greatly increases the esthetics of the clamp. In FIG. 103, the upper clamp has been attached to the pant hem. The clamp has crystals on the surface, and an additional ornament has been attached to the bottom of the clamp (124). A lower clamp is not used in this configuration. FIG. 104 is a front view of an additional toy car charm ornament. The ornament has a male adaptor end (125). In FIG. 105, the ornament has been attached to an upper clamp. FIG. 106 is a back view of a barefoot person in which the car ornament has been attached to the upper clamp (126) which is securing the pant hem. No lower clamp is used in this embodiment. FIG. 107 is a decorative additional separate heart shaped charm ornament which has a male adaptor end (127). In FIG. 108, the heart charm has been attached to the end of a lower clamp component. FIG. 109 is a back view of a shoe that has a lower clamp attached to the rim of a shoe. The heart is attached to the end of the clamp (128). An upper clamp may or may not be used in this embodiment. If used, in addition to the lower clamp attaching to the back of a shoe, with the ornament attached to the bottom of the lower clamp, an upper clamp may be attached to the top of the lower clamp and the pant hem. In an additional embodiment, a charm may be attached to the top of the lower clamp also. The lower (and upper) clamp may have male (or female) parts on both the top and bottom to allow ornaments to attach to it near the top or bottom. The clamp, with extra embellishment, has been attached to the back of the shoe as a decorative accessory.
All the different kinds and methods of adding extra ornamental embellishments to the clamps are too numerous to list. A few examples are shown in FIG. 110A thru FIG. 110E. They include, but are not limited to: FIG. 110A—symbols, FIG. 110B—logos, FIG. 110C—bling, FIG. 110D—toys, FIG. 110E—photos, and or blank cards for individual customization. Because the double dual shoe to hem protector clip clamp has multiple interchangeable components; customizing to fit one's individual style is easy. The additional extra embellishment ornaments may be packaged and sold separately. FIG. 111 is a back view of a pant hem that is secured with a clamp that has a holiday motif. This embodiment utilizes the entire device comprised of both the upper and lower clamp component which is attached to the rim of a shoe. In FIG. 112, the upper clamp has been disconnected from the lower clamp. Only the upper clamp component is being utilized to secure the pant hem; and which additionally and simultaneously adds decoration to the pant hem. In FIG. 113, only the lower clamp is being utilized. It has been attached to the back of the shoe for decoration purposes only. FIG. 114 is a back view of the same upper clamp that was decorated in a holiday motif and attached to the pant hem. However, an extra embellished ornament (129) has been attached to the clamp. The clamp is securing the pant hem above ground level, and is simultaneously adorning the pant hem. FIG. 115 is a back view of a lower clamp that is orated with crystals; and also has an additional ornament (130) attached to the clamp. The lower clamp and the extra bling ornament has transformed a plain shoe into one that is highly decorated and eye catching.
The dual clamp has the capacity to add fun, excitement, and creativity in the area of clothing accessories. The basic double/dual clamp can be modified, embellished, and configured in many ways. The interchangeable components extend the wear ability of the clamp device; while allowing unique customization. The device can be manufactured to accommodate a wide array of income levels, interests, ages, and genders. Rather than using “clamps,” in another embodiment, the “clamps” may be substituted by “flaps” made of sturdy material, plastic, or a combination of those.
In summary, the double dual shoe to hem protective clip clamp is adaptable to most shoes or boots. The device effectively and fashionably prevents a baggy pant hem from dragging on the ground. The device is lightweight, portable, and can be decorated with integral as well as additional separate ornamentation. One of the clamps on the device is easily attached to a pant hem, and the other clamp attaches directly onto the shoe heel rim. The device is one entity or unit. The unit is comprised of two main components—and upper clamp and a lower clamp. The upper and lower clamps may detach as a shared surface area, or a specially equipped connector site. The unit may be worn with both clamp components connected. At the wearer's discretion, the clamps may be separated. The wearer may choose to wear only the upper clamp component, or wear only the lower clamp component at any given time also. Additionally, each clamp component may be adapted to accept additional and separate ornamentation. The device is functional, fashionable, and fun.
