CONFIGURABLE MULTIPURPOSE ACCESSORY KIT

A configurable multipurpose accessory kit is provided. Such an accessory kit may include a central coupler, and a plurality of accessories which may be configured to meet the needs of a user. The central coupler may be a solid ring, hinged ring, split ring or linear. The accessories may then couple to the central coupler. The accessories may include an accessory coupler, and extender and a functional component. The accessory coupler may reversibly decouple from the central coupler. The extender is one of a chain, cable, string or rope. When the central coupler is a solid ring, the accessory couplers may include a clip enabled to couple and decouple from the central coupler. Where the central coupler includes a hinged ring or a split ring the accessory couplers may be solid. These accessory couplers may include a quick release for rapid removal of the accessory.

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Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to personal accessories. More particularly, this invention relates to a configurable multipurpose accessory kit. Such an accessory may be configured by the user to meet particular needs of the user. Such an accessory has the benefit of centralizing any number of common and unique accessories in a compact, accessible and attractive format. Such an accessory may be particularly useful for the individual who is always “on the go” as the accessory provides unparalleled convenience and customizability.

For example, it is often desirable for the mobile professional to have a collection of necessity accessories readily available. Such accessories may be particularly helpful when traveling or on business trips.

Likewise, college bound and teenaged individuals may likewise benefit from having a collection of “necessity” accessories always on one's person. In general, anyone with a relatively unpredictable schedule may benefit from having a plurality of accessories, or a single multipurpose accessory kit, that may be conveniently kept on the individual's person.

However, due to the wide range of individuals who could benefit from a multipurpose accessory kit, it is also desirable to be able to configure the functionality of the multipurpose accessory kit to meet each individual's needs.

Traditionally, typical accessories such as toothpaste, make-up and vitamin containers are offered in “travel sizes” for the mobile individual. However, even these “travel sizes” are often considered too bulky to be kept on the person. Thus, for all the purported convenience of such travel-sized accessories, they are often not accessible when needed.

Additionally, such accessories are almost always sold separately and are designed to be carried as individual pieces. Occasionally, “travel packs” may be sold including a carrying case and a collection of necessities; however, seldom are such travel packs compact enough to be kept on one's person. Likewise, such travel packs are not designed to be configurable in terms of accessories included or number of accessories.

It would be advantageous to have a multipurpose accessory kit having a plurality of accessories which enables a range of functionality and is so compact as to be readily stored on one's person. Moreover, it would be advantageous that such a multipurpose accessory kit is configurable as to the type and number of accessories included.

It is therefore apparent that an urgent need exists for a configurable multipurpose accessory kit. The envisioned configurable multipurpose accessory kit may be able to couple with a wide range of accessories to allow the configurable multipurpose accessory kit to have a wide array of functionalities. Thus, the configurable multipurpose accessory kit may be customized to meet any individual's needs or tastes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To achieve the foregoing and in accordance with the present invention, a configurable multipurpose accessory kit is provided. Such an accessory kit may include a plurality of accessories which may be configured to meet the needs of a user.

The configurable multipurpose accessory kit may include a central coupler. The central coupler may be a solid ring, hinged ring, split ring or linear. The one or more accessories may then couple to the central coupler. The accessories may include an accessory coupler, and extender and a functional component. The accessory coupler may reversibly decouple from the central coupler. The extender is one of a chain, cable, string or rope.

The functional component of the accessory includes any of a toothbrush, toothpaste, tweezers, lip balm, lip gloss, eye shadow, blush, face powder, a powder brush, nail polish, a brush, a mirror, a container, sun block, bug spray, mascara, face wash, a flashlight, mouth wash, breath mints, lotion, a house key, a card and money sheath, perfume, lip liner, a pen, a pad, hair spray, hair gel, cologne, a condom, aftershave, a tampon holder, shine blotter, body spray, multi-purpose make-up stick, deodorant, single use laundry detergent, contact lens case, nail file, anti-bacterial hand sanitizer, wipes, moisturizer, and a razor.

When the central coupler is a solid ring, the accessory couplers may be enabled to couple and decouple from it. In such embodiments the accessory coupler may include a clip. Further, solid ring couplers may include more than one ring in order to separate accessories.

Where the central coupler includes a hinged ring or a split ring, the accessory couplers may be solid. These accessory couplers may include a quick release for rapid removal of the accessory. The quick release may include any of a magnet, a screw threading, a pin and socket, and a hook and loop material.

The hinged ring may then be opened to couple or decouple the accessory coupler to the central coupler. Likewise, for a split ring, the accessory coupler threads onto the split ring to couple or decouple the one or more accessories to the central coupler.

Note that the various features of the present invention described above may be practiced alone or in combination. These and other features of the present invention will be described in more detail below in the detailed description of the invention and in conjunction with the following figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the present invention may be more clearly ascertained, one or more embodiments will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with exemplary accessories;

FIG. 2A shows a second exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit including a hinged central coupler with decouple-able accessories;

FIG. 2B shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit including a split ring central coupler with decouple-able accessories;

FIG. 3A shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit including a hinged central coupler;

FIG. 3B shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit including a split ring central coupler;

FIG. 4 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit;

FIG. 5 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit;

FIG. 6 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with decouple-able threaded accessories;

FIG. 7 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with no central coupler;

FIG. 8 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with the accessories forming the central coupler;

FIG. 9A shows another exemplary illustration of a linear multipurpose configurable accessory kit in an open position;

FIG. 9B shows another exemplary illustration of a linear multipurpose configurable accessory kit in a compact position;

FIG. 10 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with accessory subsets;

FIG. 11A shows one exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder useful in conjunction with the multipurpose configurable accessory kit;

FIG. 11B shows another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder useful in conjunction with the multipurpose configurable accessory kit;

FIG. 11C shows another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder useful in conjunction with the multipurpose configurable accessory kit;

FIG. 11D shows yet another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder useful in conjunction with the multipurpose configurable accessory kit;

FIG. 11E shows another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder useful in conjunction with the multipurpose configurable accessory kit;

FIG. 11F shows yet another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder useful in conjunction with the multipurpose configurable accessory kit;

FIG. 11G shows yet another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder useful in conjunction with the multipurpose configurable accessory kit; and

FIG. 11H shows yet another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder useful in conjunction with the multipurpose configurable accessory kit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to several embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well-known process steps and/or structures have not been described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure the present invention. The features and advantages of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and discussions that follow.

To facilitate discussion, FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit having a plurality of accessories, shown generally at 100. In this embodiment, a Solid Central Coupler 102 couples to each of the accessories. Some exemplary accessories are illustrated including Tweezers 104, Lip Balm 106, a Makeup Compact 108, Nail Polish 114, a Container 116, a Collapsible Toothbrush 118 and Toothpaste 120.

In this example, each accessory is coupled to a Chain 112, which in turn couples to a Spring Clip 110. The Spring Clip 110 may be configured to be able to engage and disengage with the Solid Central Coupler 102. In this way, any number of accessories may be coupled to the Solid Central Coupler 102 at any time, enabling customization of the multipurpose configurable accessory kit.

The Solid Central Coupler 102 may be plastic, wood, metal, ceramic or any other suitable material. Additionally, while a ring shape is illustrated for the Solid Central Coupler 102, other shapes are considered. Such shapes may include aesthetically pleasing shapes, such as stars, ellipses and hearts, or may include practical shape designs such as double-ringed “infinity” type designs to enable coupling of accessories to separate parts of the Solid Central Coupler 102.

In addition, the Solid Central Coupler 102 may, in some embodiments, not be a rigid member. In such embodiments, they may include string, rope, chain, rubber, flexible plastic or other suitable material.

In addition to the illustrated accessories, additional accessories are contemplated by the present invention. These additional accessories include, but are not limited to: a toothbrush, toothpaste, tweezers, lip balm, lip gloss, eye shadow, blush, face powder, blush/powder brush, nail polish, brush, mirror, little container (for jewelry, hair items, medication, etc.), sun block, bug spray, mascara, face wash, flashlight, mouth wash, breath mints, lotion, house key, ID/credit card/money (in a sheath or money clip of sorts), perfume, lip liner, pen, pad, hair spray, hair gel, cologne, condoms, aftershave, tampon holder, shine blotter, body spray, multi-purpose make-up stick, deodorant, single use laundry detergent, contact lens case, nail file, anti-bacterial hand sanitizer, wipes, moisturizer, safe mini-razor.

In general each accessory of the multipurpose configurable accessory kit is designed to be in a miniaturized form. Typically, such a miniaturized form is even smaller than “travel sized” equivalents. By miniaturizing the accessories, the entire multipurpose configurable accessory kit may be small enough to be kept on one's person via a pocket, backpack or purse.

In some embodiments, the Spring Clip 110 and Chain 112 may couple to one or more a universal coupler which may enable attachment of personal items to the multipurpose accessory kit. For example, a universal coupler may include a rubber pencil top for coupling to any number of preexisting eyeliner and makeup pencils. Another example of a universal coupler may include a variable screw top for coupling to any preexisting accessory which includes a screw-on top. Exemplary, illustrations of universal accessory couplers may be seen in FIGS. 11A to 11H below.

Additionally, it is considered that the accessories as a whole, or the Chain 112 and Spring Clip 110 may be color coordinated to signify the particular accessory, or “type” of accessory. For example, all accessories manufactured for a primarily female consumer may be colored pink. Likewise, typically adult accessories, such as holders for contraceptives, may likewise have distinct coloration. This enables retailers to readily identify the accessories they wish to display. Likewise, coordinated coloration may aid the casual purchaser. Finally, such coloration may aid the visual appeal, functionality and salability of the multipurpose configurable accessory kit.

Also, the Chain 112 and Spring Clip 110 may be plastic, wood, metal, ceramic or any other suitable material. Likewise, while a chain is illustrated for Chain 112, any of a cable, a solid member or any additional extension is contemplated by the present invention.

FIG. 2A shows a second exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit including a hinged central coupler with decouple-able accessories, shown generally at 200A. Here the accessories are not illustrated. Disengage-able Accessory Couplers 204, 206, 208 and 214 are shown coupled to the Hinged Central Coupler 202. Since each of the Disengage-able Accessory Couplers 204, 206, 208 and 214 are not designed to be able to decouple from the Hinged Central Coupler 202, the Hinged Central Coupler 202 may be hinged as to enable the addition or removal of accessory couplers.

In this embodiment, the Disengage-able Accessory Couplers 204, 206, 208 and 214 may be configured to reversibly release as is shown in Top Portion 210 and Bottom Portion 212. This accessory may include usage of an adhesive, magnetism, screws, pin-in-socket, hook and loop, or any other reasonable coupling mechanism. In some embodiments this coupling may be specific to particular pairs of Top Coupler Portions 210 and Bottom Coupler Portions 212. In some alternate embodiments, the coupling may be generic across all Top Portions 210 and Bottom Portions 212.

FIG. 2B shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit including a split ring central coupler with decouple-able accessories, shown generally at 200B. Similar to the above illustration, here the accessories are not illustrated. The Disengage-able Accessory Couplers 204, 206, 208 and 214 are shown coupled to a Split Ring Central Coupler 220 rather than a Hinged Central Coupler 202. Unlike the Hinged Central Coupler 202, the Split Ring Central Coupler 220 may include an elastic spring like metal coil similar to a key ring. Thus, by separating the coils of the Split Ring Central Coupler 220, the accessory couplers may be threaded on and off of the Split Ring Central Coupler 220 as desired.

Again, in this embodiment the Disengage-able Accessory Couplers 204, 206, 208 and 214 may be configured to reversibly release as is shown in Top Portion 210 and Bottom Portion 212. This accessory may include usage of an adhesive, magnetism, screws, pin-in-socket, hook and loop, or any other reasonable coupling mechanism.

FIG. 3A shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit including a hinged central coupler, shown generally at 300A. Again, here the accessories are not illustrated. Unlike the previous illustrations, this embodiment of the multipurpose configurable accessory kit has Accessory Couplers 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312 which couple to the accessories but lack the ability to reversibly release the accessories from the Hinged Central Coupler 302. Instead the Accessory Couplers 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312 may be removed from the Hinged Central Coupler 302 by opening the Hinged Central Coupler 302 along the hinge in order to remove the accessory.

As before, each of the Accessory Couplers 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312 may be made of plastic, wood, metals, ceramics, rope, composite or any other suitable material. Additionally, the Accessory Couplers 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312 may be color coded in the manner discussed above.

FIG. 3B shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit including a split ring central coupler, shown generally at 300B. Similar to the above illustration, here the accessories are not illustrated. The Accessory Couplers 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312 are shown coupled to a Split Ring Central Coupler 314 rather than a Hinged Central Coupler 302.

The Accessory Couplers 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312 each couple to an accessory but lack the ability to reversibly release the accessories from the Split Ring Central Coupler 314. Unlike the Hinged Central Coupler 302, the Split Ring Central Coupler 314 may include an elastic spring like metal coil similar to a key ring. Thus, by separating the coils of the Split Ring Central Coupler 314 the accessory couplers may be threaded on and off of the Split Ring Central Coupler 314 as desired.

FIG. 4 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit, shown generally at 400. For the sake of simplicity, in the present illustration a single accessory is shown coupled to the Central Coupler 402. The Collapsible Toothbrush 118 is shown coupled to a Solid Ring Accessory Coupler 404, which in turn couples to the Central Coupler 402. Like the previous illustrations, the Central Coupler 402 may be a solid component, may be hinged or may be a split ring design. Since the illustrated Solid Ring Accessory Coupler 404 appears to be a solid unit, the Central Coupler 402 typically will include a hinge or split ring in order to enable addition or removal of accessory couplers.

Again, the Solid Ring Accessory Coupler 404 and the Central Coupler 402 may be made of plastic, wood, metals, ceramics, rope, composite or any other suitable material. Additionally, the Solid Ring Accessory Coupler 404 may be color coded in the manner discussed above.

FIG. 5 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit, shown generally at 500. As above, for the sake of simplicity, in the present illustration a single accessory is shown coupled to the Central Coupler 502. The Collapsible Toothbrush 118 couples to a Cord Accessory Coupler 504, which in turn couples to the Central Coupler 502. Like the previous illustrations, the Central Coupler 502 may be a solid component, may be hinged or may be a split ring design. Since the illustrated Cord Accessory Coupler 504 appears to be a solid unit, the Central Coupler 502 typically will include a hinge or split ring in order to enable addition or removal of accessory couplers. Alternatively, since the Cord Accessory Coupler 504 appears to include a length of fine chain, string or wire, it may be possible to untie or otherwise disengage the Cord Accessory Coupler 504 at this point.

Again, the Cord Accessory Coupler 504 and the Central Coupler 502 may be made of plastic, wood, metals, ceramics, rope, composite or any other suitable material. Additionally, the Cord Accessory Coupler 504 may be color coded in the manner discussed above.

FIG. 6 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with decouple-able threaded accessories, shown generally at 600. For the sake of simplicity, in the present illustration two accessories are shown coupled to the Central Coupler 602. The Collapsible Toothbrush 118 is shown coupled to an accessory coupler, which in turn couples to the Central Coupler 602. Likewise, a Container 116 is shown in a disengaged position with regards to the Twist-off Accessory Coupler 604.

Like the previous illustrations, the Central Coupler 602 may be a solid component, may be hinged or may be a split ring design. Since the illustrated Twist-off Accessory Coupler 604 appears to be a solid unit as regards to the portion which couples to the Central Coupler 602, the Central Coupler 602 typically will include a hinge or split ring in order to enable addition or removal of accessory couplers. The Twist-off Accessory Coupler 604 as illustrated in this exemplary embodiment may include threading, thereby enabling the accessories to engage and disengage the Twist-off Accessory Coupler 604 via a twisting motion.

Again, the Twist-off Accessory Coupler 604 and the Central Coupler 602 may be made of plastic, wood, metals, ceramics, rope, composite or any other suitable material. Additionally, the Twist-off Accessory Coupler 604 may be color coded in the manner discussed above.

FIG. 7 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with no central coupler, shown generally at 700. Here each accessory is shown coupled to a Spring Clip 710. The Spring Clip 710 may be made of elastic materials such that they may be opened by squeezing in a manner similar to that of a safety pin. The opened Spring Clip 710 may then engage other Spring Clips 710 each coupled to an accessory.

Here Tweezers 104, Lip Balm 106, Makeup Compact 108, Nail Polish 114, a Container 116, a Collapsible Toothbrush 118 and Toothpaste 120 are illustrated; however, any combination of items may be included in the multipurpose configurable accessory kit. As noted above, the Spring Clip 710 may include plastic, wood, metals, ceramics, rope, composite or any other suitable material. Additionally, the Spring Clip 710 may be color coded in the manner discussed above.

FIG. 8 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with the accessories forming the central coupler, shown generally at 800. Accessories are not shown in this exemplary illustration. In the exemplary illustration each accessory couples to a “T” shaped chain, thereby forming an accessory subunit. One arm of the “T” may include a coupler capable of engaging and disengaging the chain of another accessory subunit. An individual subunit may be seen at 820. Coupled subunits may be seen at 802, 804, 806, 808, 810, 812, 814, 816, and 818. Any number of accessory subunits may be joined in a variety of configurations. As may be seen, the more accessory subunits included in the final multipurpose configurable accessory kit may increase its size.

In this exemplary illustration bead chains are depicted. The cylindrical couplers may slide over a final bead in a bead chain and thereby couple two bead chains together. It is considered within the spirit of the invention to include other chain types and coupler units. For example, standard link chain may be used in some embodiments of the invention.

As noted above, the accessory subunits may include plastic, wood, metals, ceramics, rope, composite or any other suitable material. Additionally, the accessory subunits may be color coded in the manner discussed above.

FIG. 9A shows an exemplary illustration of a linear multipurpose configurable accessory kit in an open position, shown generally at 900. Accessories are not shown in this exemplary illustration. A Linear Central Coupler 902 may be seen. The Linear Central Coupler 902 may be of a variable length and may, in some embodiments, be flexible. Accessory Couplers 904, 906, 908, 910, 912 and 914 may reversibly couple to the Linear Central Coupler 902 via hook and loop adhesion, glues, magnets, buttons or any other suitable method. More or fewer Accessory Couplers 904, 906, 908, 910, 912 and 914 may couple to the Linear Central Coupler 902 as is desired, limited only by the length of the Linear Central Coupler 902.

In some embodiments, the Linear Central Coupler 902 may be a loop covered fabric or other flexible medium. The Accessory Couplers 904, 906, 908, 910, 912 and 914 may then include a pad of hook material coupled to a chain, which may then couple to the accessory.

FIG. 9B shows another exemplary illustration of the linear multipurpose configurable accessory kit in a compact position, again shown generally at 900. Since the Linear Central Coupler 902 may be made from a flexible material, the Linear Central Coupler 902 may be rolled for storage and transport. The Accessory Couplers 904, 906, 908, 910, 912 and 914 may then extend down from the rolled Linear Central Coupler 902.

FIG. 10 shows another exemplary illustration of a multipurpose configurable accessory kit with accessory subsets, shown generally at 1000. As may be seen, the multipurpose configurable accessory kit with accessory subsets may include a Central Coupler 1010 which may then couple to accessory Subset Rings 1020a to 1020n. In the illustrated embodiment, four accessory subsets are shown; however, in some embodiments any number of Subset Rings 1020a to 1020n may be coupled to the Central Coupler 1010.

Accessory Couplers 1030 may be coupled to the Subset Rings 1020a to 1020n. In some embodiments, the accessories coupled to each Subset Ring 1020a to 1020n may be related in some fashion. For example, all bathroom toiletries may be on one subset, whereas all makeup accessories may be on another Subset Ring 1020a to 1020n. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the accessories may be color coded in order to indicate which Subset Ring 1020a to 1020n they belong.

Like in other embodiments, Accessory Couplers 1030 may couple to the Subset Rings 1020a to 1020n. Each Accessory Coupler 1030 may include a clip portion 1032 and an extender 1034 which may be a chain, wire or solid member.

To further the discussion, FIGS. 11A to 11H illustrate possible embodiments of universal accessory holders. Such couplers may enable a user to attach any accessory to the multipurpose accessory kit, as may be desired. In all of the exemplary universal couplers, a Clip 1102 may be seen. Other accessory couplers may be used to couple the universal accessory holder to the ring of the multipurpose accessory kit, such as solid connectors, elongated wire loops or any other previously discussed method. Also, an Extender 1104 may be seen in each example as consisting of a chain member. Of course, additional permutations are contemplated in the present invention, including extenders of wire, rope, solid members and extenders that include quick release mechanisms as previously disclosed.

FIG. 11A shows one exemplary illustration of an exemplary universal accessory holder at 1100A. In this first example, a Friction Fitting Holder 1106 may be seen. The Friction Fitting Holder 1106 may include a Cavity 1108 for receiving the desired accessory. The Friction Fitting Holder 1106 may be of particular use with accessories with standardized dimensions, as the cavity may be configured to snuggly fit the accessory size and shape. For example, mascara and make-up pencils are typically a standardized size. The Friction Fitting Holder 1106 may be sized to fit on the end of these pencils. Proper sizing of the Cavity 1108 and friction may keep the accessory attached to the universal accessory holder. Likewise, the Friction Fitting Holder 1106 may be formed from a rubber, plastic, or other elastic material to aid in a snug fit with the accessory.

FIG. 11B shows another exemplary illustration of an exemplary universal accessory holder, shown generally at 1100B. In this example, an Adhesive Holder 1112 may be seen. The Adhesive Holder 1112 may likewise include a Cavity 1114. Within the Cavity 1114 may be an Adhesive 1116. Adhesive 1116 may include calking adhesive, super glue, epoxies or any additional adhesive type. Adhesive 1116 may be covered with a membrane material to prevent premature curing. In some embodiments, the accessory may be forcibly inserted into the Cavity 1114. The accessory may then rupture the membrane and allow the accessory to come into contact with the Adhesive 1116. The adhesive may cure, thereby permanently, or semi-permanently, adhering the accessory within the Adhesive Holder 1112. The Adhesive Holder 1112 may be of particular use when the accessory does not include a standardized sizing and therefore would not properly engage a Friction Fitting Holder 1106.

FIG. 11C shows another exemplary illustration of an exemplary universal accessory holder, shown generally at 1100C. Similar to the Adhesive Holder 1112, the Slip Trap Holder 1132 may be of particular use when the accessory does not include a standardized sizing. Like other universal holders, the Slip Trap Holder 1132 includes a Cavity 1134. However, in the Cavity 1134 there may be one or more Barbs 1136. When an accessory is inserted into the Cavity 1134 the Barbs 1136 may engage the accessory thereby preventing removal. In some embodiments the Barbs 1136 may be spring loaded.

FIG. 11D shows yet another exemplary illustration of an exemplary universal accessory holder, shown generally at 1100D. This universal accessory holder includes a Compression Holder 1142. The Compression Holder 1142 has a Cavity 1144 and a Compressor 1146 which compresses the accessory inserted into the Cavity 1144. The Compressor 1146 may include a spring loaded member, screw or other mechanism for compressing the accessory, and thereby keeping the accessory attached to the Compression Holder 1142. Again, the Compression Holder 1142 may be of particular use for odd sized accessories.

FIG. 11E shows another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder, shown generally at 1100E. Unlike the other illustrated universal accessory holders, the present embodiment includes a Clip 1152 to hold onto the accessory. The Clip 1152 may be spring loaded.

FIG. 11F shows yet another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder, shown generally at 1100F. This exemplary universal accessory holder includes a Universal Screw Top 1162. The Universal Screw Top 1162 includes a Tapered and Threaded Cavity 1164. The Universal Screw Top 1162 may thus engage a wide range of preexisting bottles or items by screwing onto the accessory. In some embodiments, this may include replacement of the original screw cap for the accessory. Additionally, in some embodiments, the Universal Screw Top 1162 may be screwed onto malleable items, thereby cutting threading into the item in the process.

FIG. 11G shows yet another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder, shown generally at 1100G. This exemplary universal accessory holder includes a Lining 1177 of rubber, foam or other compressible material. Thus, if the object inserted into the Cavity 1178 of the Holder 1176 does not fit perfectly, the object may be held via friction with the compressed Lining 1177.

FIG. 11H shows yet another exemplary illustration of a universal accessory holder, shown generally at 1100H. This exemplary universal accessory holder includes a Magnet 1184 within the Magnet Holder 1182. This accessory holder may be coupled to any ferrous accessory via magnetic force. Thus, items such as nail trimmers may be reversibly attached using this holder type. The strength of the Magnet 1184 may be tailored for the intended accessory; however, in general, a strong magnet is typically used.

In sum, various exemplary embodiments of the multipurpose configurable accessory kit have been illustrated and described in detail as to their design and function. Such multipurpose configurable accessory kits have the benefit of a high degree of customizability. Additionally the multipurpose configurable accessory kit may be readily stored on ones person thereby enhancing usability and convenience.

While this invention has been described in terms of several preferred embodiments, there are alterations, modifications, permutations, and substitute equivalents, which fall within the scope of this invention. For example, wherein the disclosed multipurpose configurable accessory kits have been illustrated including a plurality of personal item accessories, such a system may be just as easily be designed for occupation specific accessories.

It should also be noted that there are many alternative ways of implementing the methods and apparatuses of the present invention. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims be interpreted as including all such alterations, modifications, permutations, and substitute equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A multipurpose accessory kit, useful in association with a user, the multipurpose accessory kit comprising:

a coupler configured to form a hub; and
one or more accessories configured to couple to the coupler, wherein each of the one or more accessories includes an accessory coupler and a functional component, and further wherein the accessory coupler of each of the one or more accessories may reversibly decouple from the coupler.

2. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein the hub is a continuous loop.

3. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 2, wherein each accessory coupler includes a clip configured to reversibly attach to the continuous loop.

4. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more accessories further includes an extender configured to couple to the accessory coupler and the functional component.

5. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 4, wherein the extender is one of a chain, cable, string or rope.

6. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein the functional component includes at least one of a toothbrush, toothpaste, tweezers, lip balm, lip gloss, eye shadow, blush, face powder, a powder brush, nail polish, a brush, a mirror, a container, sun block, bug spray, mascara, face wash, a flashlight, mouth wash, breath mints, lotion, a house key, a card and money sheath, perfume, lip liner, a pen, a pad, hair spray, hair gel, cologne, a condom, aftershave, a tampon holder, shine blotter, body spray, multi-purpose make-up stick, deodorant, single use laundry detergent, contact lens case, nail file, anti-bacterial hand sanitizer, wipes, moisturizer, and a razor.

7. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein each accessory coupler includes a quick release.

8. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 7, wherein the quick release includes one of a magnet, a screw threading, a pin and socket, and a hook and loop material.

9. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein the coupler includes more than one continuous ring.

10. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein the coupler includes more than one coupler subsets each configured to couple to some of the one or more accessories.

11. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein the hub includes a segmented loop.

12. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein the hub includes a central ring.

13. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 12, wherein the central ring includes a hinged, wherein the central ring is configured to open at the hinge, and wherein the opening at the hinge enables the reversible decoupling of the or more accessories from the coupler.

14. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 12, wherein the central ring includes a split ring, wherein the split ring is elastic, and wherein deformation of the split ring enables the accessory coupler to thread onto the split ring to couple or decouple the one or more accessories to the coupler.

15. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein the coupler is linear.

16. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 15, wherein the coupler is flexible.

17. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 16, wherein the coupler includes loop material, and wherein the accessory coupler of the one or more accessories includes a hook material, and further wherein the hook material may reversibly couple to the loop material to enable the reversible decoupling of the or more accessories from the coupler.

18. The multipurpose accessory kit of claim 1, wherein the one or more accessories includes one or more universal accessory holders.

19. A multipurpose accessory kit, useful in association with a user, the multipurpose accessory kit comprising:

a coupler configured to form a hub; and
one or more accessories configured to couple to the coupler, wherein each of the one or more accessories comprises: an accessory coupler configured to reversibly decouple from the coupler; and a functional component, wherein the functional component includes at least one of a toothbrush, toothpaste, tweezers, lip balm, lip gloss, eye shadow, blush, face powder, a powder brush, nail polish, a brush, a mirror, a container, sun block, bug spray, mascara, face wash, a flashlight, mouth wash, breath mints, lotion, a house key, a card and money sheath, perfume, lip liner, a pen, a pad, hair spray, hair gel, cologne, a condom, aftershave, a tampon holder, shine blotter, body spray, multi-purpose make-up stick, deodorant, single use laundry detergent, contact lens case, nail file, anti-bacterial hand sanitizer, wipes, moisturizer, and a razor; an extender configured to couple to the accessory coupler and the functional component, wherein the extender is one of a chain, cable, string or rope; and a quick release wherein the quick release includes one of a magnet, a screw threading, a pin and socket, and a hook and loop material.
Patent History
Publication number: 20100122709
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 20, 2008
Publication Date: May 20, 2010
Inventors: Nedda Janatpour (Walnut Creek, CA), Jenny Kugizaki (Walnut Creek, CA)
Application Number: 12/275,140
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Toilet Kit (132/286); Combined With A Different Art Device (224/576)
International Classification: A45D 40/18 (20060101); A45F 5/00 (20060101);