CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/411,472 filed Nov. 8, 2010.
FIELD OF INVENTION This invention relates to a closure system configured to releasably engage two pieces of athletic wear.
BACKGROUND Clothing often shifts positions during wear. An athlete's uniform shirt or compressive shirt often shifts during sports competitions. For example, at the beginning of a soccer game, a soccer player typically tucks his shirt into his shorts in order to adhere to a dress code or prevent an opponent from pulling on his or her shirt during the game. Throughout the game, as the athlete engages in sudden physical movements, such as running and jumping, the athlete's shirt often becomes un-tucked from his or her shorts. This can result in a violation of a league dress code or an opportunity for an opponent to tug at the athlete's loose shirt.
The present invention is directed to a device that releasably secures two adjacent pieces of athletic wear in place with respect to one another in order to prevent the pieces of athletic wear from shifting drastically while still permitting the wearer to move freely. As an athlete may desire uniform changes, the pieces of athletic wear may be interchanged with fresh pieces of athletic wear, or pieces of athletic wear having different colors, sizes, or designs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a closure system for reversibly connecting interchangeable items of athletic wear. The closure system comprises an elongate connector which is anchored to a first piece of athletic wear at an anchor point. The anchor point is located at a first end of the elongate connector and defines an axis or point about which the second end of the elongate connector is angularly displaceable. The first piece of athletic wear also has at least one locking point which may reversibly mate with a locking point coupler located at the second end of the elongate connector. A second piece of athletic wear has at least one engagement point which is capable of reversibly engaging a portion of the elongate connector. When the locking coupler is mated to the locking point, the elongate connector and the engagement point hold the first and second pieces of athletic wear together.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of the specification, illustrate some embodiments of the present invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:
FIG. 1 is a front view of one embodiment of the present invention used in conjunction with first and second pieces of athletic attire.
FIG. 2 shows a detail of the engagement point of an embodiment attached to a piece of athletic attire.
FIG. 3 shows a detail of the elongate connector of one embodiment.
FIG. 4 shows a detail of one embodiment of the elongate connector.
FIG. 5 shows a cross-section of the elongate connector of FIG. 4 along line A-A.
FIG. 6 shows an alternate embodiment of the closure system.
FIG. 7 shows a cross-section of the locking flap taken along line B-B of FIG. 6.
FIG. 7A shows an alternate embodiment of the locking flap of FIGS. 6 & 7.
FIG. 8 shows the elongate connector, engagement point, and locking flap of the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7 in an open, unfastened, detached position.
FIG. 9 shows the closure system in a semi-attached position.
FIGS. 10 and 11 show details of the closure system in semi-attached positions.
FIG. 12 shows the closure system in a closed, semi-secured position.
FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of the closure system in a closed, secured, fastened position.
FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate alternate side views of the closure system in a closed, secured, fastened position.
FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the closure system in a closed, secured, fastened position.
FIG. 17 illustrates a top view of the closure system in a closed, secured, fastened position.
FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom view of the closure system in a closed, secured, fastened position.
FIG. 19 shows another embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 20, 21, and 22 show an additional embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 23 and 24 show the embodiment of FIGS. 20, 21, and 22 where the closure system is in a closed position.
FIG. 25 shows another embodiment where the elongate connector is embodied as a strap, and the locking point and locking point coupler are embodied as latch and track connectors.
FIGS. 26, 27 and 28 show cross-sectional views of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 25 along axis C-C as the closure system is moved from an unfastened to a secure configuration.
FIG. 29 depicts an embodiment where the locking point and locking point coupler are embodied as eye and hook connectors.
FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 29 along axis D-D.
FIGS. 31 and 32 show an alternate embodiment of the eye and hook connector depicted in FIG. 29.
FIGS. 33-35 show a cross-sectional view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 29-30 as the closure system is moved from an unfastened to a secured configuration as viewed along axis D-D.
FIG. 35 shows an embodiment of the closure system where the locking point and locking point coupler are depicted as corresponding sides of a zipper connection.
FIG. 36 shows the embodiment depicted in FIG. 35 when a fully-zippered connection is formed between the anchoring point and anchoring point coupler, maintaining the closure system in a secure configuration.
FIG. 37 shows an embodiment of the closure system for athletic attire where the locking point and locking point coupler are oppositely charged magnets.
FIG. 38 shows a cross section of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 37 along axis E-E, wherein the locking point and locking point coupler are engaged to form a magnetic connection, maintaining the closure system in a secure configuration.
FIG. 39 shows an embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear where the locking point and locking point coupler are corresponding male and female portions of a snap fastener.
FIG. 40 shows a cross of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 39 along axis F-F, wherein the locking point and locking point coupler are engaged to form a snap fastener connection, maintaining the closure system in a secure configuration.
FIG. 41 shows an embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear where the elongate connector is a loop of flexible material, and wherein the locking point is a toggle.
FIG. 42 shows an embodiment of the closure system depicted in FIG. 41, wherein the locking point is a plastic bollard.
FIGS. 43-44 show cross-sectional views of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 41 along axis G-G as the closure system is moved from an unfastened to a secure configuration.
FIG. 45 shows an embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear where a plurality of engagement points are provided as reinforced slits.
FIG. 46 shows an embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear where the engagement points are provided by a continuous lace housed within a piece of athletic attire.
FIG. 47 shows an embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear depicted in FIG. 46, wherein the engagement points may be tightened and loosened, and a series of eyelets aid in securing the continuous lace.
FIG. 48 shows an embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear depicted in FIG. 46, wherein the engagement points may be tightened and loosened, and the continuous lace is secured via hook and loop fasteners.
FIG. 49 shows an alternate embodiment of the locking flap.
FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 49.
FIG. 51 shows an additional embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear depicted in FIG. 50 where an additional snap connector system is provided.
FIGS. 52-53 show an additional embodiment of the connector system where a plurality of engagement point loops are provided in addition to the engagement point slits.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of the embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to represent the only form in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and sequences of steps for constructing and using the invention. It is to be understood however that the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments and that they are also intended to be encompassed within the scope of the invention. Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.
FIG. 1 illustrates a closure system for athletic wear 1, having an elongate connector 4, and an engagement point 5. The closure system 1 is used to releasably attach first and second pieces of athletic wear 2 and 3, such as a pair of shorts and a shirt. The closure system's 1 elongate connector 4 is releasably attached to a first piece of athletic wear 2. The closure system's 1 engagement point 5 is releasably attached to a second piece of athletic wear 3. The first and second pieces of athletic wear 2 and 3 may be made of any material known in the art, such as a compression fabric. FIG. 1 illustrates the closure system 1 in an open position, before the engagement point 5 is engaged by the elongate connector 4 which, when joined together, releasably secure the garments to one another.
FIG. 2 illustrates a close-up front view of an embodiment of the closure systems 1 engagement point 5 when it is attached to a second piece of athletic attire 3, before it is engaged by elongate connector 4. The embodiment of the engagement point 5 depicted in FIG. 2 has a longitudinal strip 5b that is secured to the second piece of athletic attire 3 at its distal ends 5c by, for example, a threaded or a glued connection. The longitudinal strip 5b may be made of a flexible material including but not limited to an elastic material that has polyamide, polyester, polypropylene, or elastane fibers, such as Lycra, or any other flexible material. When the longitudinal strip 5b is secured to the second piece of athletic attire 3 at its distal ends 5c, the longitudinal strip 5b and second piece of athletic attire 3 form engagement point 5, which encloses an aperture 5a.
FIG. 3 illustrates a close-up front view of the elongate connector 4 of the closure system 1 attached to a first piece of athletic wear 2 when the closure system 1 is in an open position, before the elongate connector 4 engages the engagement point 5. As in FIG. 2, the first piece of athletic wear 2 is adjacent to and separate from the second piece of athletic wear 3. The elongate connector 4 may be affixed directly to the first piece of athletic wear 2 at an anchor pint 7 by, for example, a threaded or glued connection. Alternatively, the elongate connector 4 may be affixed to the waistband or hem of a piece of athletic wear. The elongate connector 4 may be made of a thin, flexible material, including but not limited to an elastic material which has polyamide, polyester, polypropylene, or elastane fibers, such as Lycra, or any other flexible material.
FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a close up of one embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear. FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the elongate connector 4 where the elongate connector 4 is depicted as a strap of flexible material. FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the elongate connector taken along line A-A of FIG. 4. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 4-5, the elongate connector 4 is attached to the first piece of athletic wear at a proximal end by an anchor point 7, and a locking point 6 is positioned adjacent the anchor point 7. A locking point coupler 8 is disposed on the distal end of the elongate connector 4. The locking point 6 and the locking point coupler 8 may be integral with, or detachably connected to the elongate connector 4. The locking point 6 is affixed to the first piece of athletic wear 2 and may be made of one continuous piece of material or alternatively separate pieces of material affixed to the piece of athletic wear 2 adjacent to one another. The elongate connector 4 has an inner surface 4a. The locking point coupler 8 is located on the inner surface 4a at the distal end of the elongate connector 4 opposite the anchoring point 7. The locking point coupler 8 is angularly displaceable and moves loosely when the closure system is unfastened. In one embodiment of the closure system for athletic wear, the locking point 6, and anchoring point 7 are affixed to the first piece of athletic attire 2 at the waistband 9. While the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 4-5 illustrates an embodiment where the locking point is located adjacent the anchoring point 7 the closure system may be configured such that the locking point 6 and anchor point 7 are spaced apart.
The locking point 6 and the locking point coupler 8 are reversibly mateable. In the embodiment of the closure system depicted in FIGS. 1-7 the locking point and locking point coupler are corresponding mateable portions of hook and loop fasteners. The locking point 6 and locking point coupler 8 are configured to be able to releasably adhere to one another. For example, if locking point 6 contains a loop fastener, locking point coupler 8 contains a hook fastener and vice versa, so as to permit engagement with loop fastener of locking point 6.
FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the closure system for athletic attire where an additional locking flap 110 is provided to promote a more secure connection between the locking point 106 and locking point coupler 108. FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the alternate embodiment of the closure system 100. The locking flap 110 of the illustrated embodiment may be made of a thin, flexible material including but not limited to an elastic material that has polyamide, polyester, polypropylene, or elastane fibers. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, the locking flap 110 is a generally rectangular piece of material, though the closure system may employ other shapes without detracting from the advantages described herein. The locking flap 110 is attached to the first piece of athletic attire 102 at an attachment point 112 adjacent to the elongate connector 104 at the anchor point 107. The attachment point 112 may be, for example, a sewn or glued connection. The locking flap 112 is angularly displaceable around the attachment point 112. The locking flap 110 additionally has an interior surface 114, and a locking flap fastener 116 is located on the interior surface 114. A corresponding locking flap fastener 118 is attached to the first piece of athletic wear 102 so that the anchor point 106 is positioned between the attachment point 112 of the locking flap and the locking fastener 118. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7 locking flap fasteners 116 and 118 are corresponding mateable portions of hook and loop fasteners.
FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the alternate embodiment of the closure system 100 taken along line B-B of Fig., 6 when the locking point coupler 108 is mated to the locking point 106, and the locking flap fasteners 116 and 118 of locking flap 110 are mated. As depicted in FIG. 7, the interior surface 114 of locking flap 110 is biased against an exterior surface of the elongate connector 104b.
In an additional embodiment depicted in FIG. 7A, the locking point 106 and locking point coupler 108 are connected, while the locking flap fasteners 116 and 118 are unsecured. When the closure system 100 is configured in this manner, the exterior of the elongate connector 104b is exposed. The additional embodiment in FIG. 7A illustrates supplemental locking members 120 and 122 disposed on the locking flap 110 and the exterior surface of the elongate connector 104b. Supplemental locking member 120 is disposed on the interior surface 114 of locking flap 110, while supplemental locking flap member 122 is located on the exterior surface of the elongate connector 104b. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7a the supplemental locking members 120 and 122 are illustrated as corresponding mateable portions of a hook and loop connector.
FIG. 8 illustrates the closure system for athletic wear 100 in an open, unfastened position where the elongate connector 104 and locking flap 110 approach the engagement point 105, immediately before the elongate connector 104 passes through the engagement point 105.
FIGS. 9, 10, and 11 illustrate a front view of the closure system for athletic wear 100 as it is moved from an unfastened position to a semi-secured position. The elongate connector 104 begins to engage the engagement point 105 when it is passed through the aperture 105a between the longitudinal strip 105b and the second piece of athletic attire 103 to which the engagement point 105 is affixed. The elongate connector 104 is passed through the aperture 105a until the approximate midpoint between the anchor point 107 of the elongate connector and locking point coupler 108 is directly below the longitudinal strip 105b of the engagement point 105. In this position, approximately half of the elongate connector 104 extends outward from each side of the aperture 105a and longitudinal strip 105b. The locking point coupler 108 is then folded over the longitudinal strip 105b at a point that is approximately midway between the locking point coupler 108 and the anchor point 107. The locking point coupler 108 disposed on the inner surface 104a of the elongate connector is releasably affixed to the locking point 106. The method of securing closure system for athletic attire 100 is as follows. First, the elongate connector 104 is placed through the engagement point aperture 105a. Second, the elongate connector 104 is pulled through the engagement point aperture 105a so that the elongate connector is half way through the aperture 105a or up to the point where the elongate connector 104 is fixed to the first piece of athletic wear. A user may adjust the extent to which the elongate connector 104 is pulled through the engagement point aperture 105a in order to accommodate the user's desired level of comfort or performance. Next, the elongate connector 104 is folded up and over the longitudinal strip 105b, and the locking point coupler 108 is pressed against the locking point 106 creating a mated connection. Next, the locking flap 110 is folded over the elongate connector 104. Subsequently, the locking flap fasteners 116 and 118 are secured against one another by applying pressure to the locking flap 110.
The method of releasing the fastener 100 from a secured position to an unfastened position is accomplished by repeating the steps above in the reverse order. First, the locking flap is pulled away from the locking flap fasteners. Second, the locking point coupler is pulled away from the locking point. Next, the elongate connector 104 is slid back through the engagement point 105. The first piece of athletic attire 102 may be pulled away from the second piece of athletic attire 103 without damaging or tearing the closure system. The closure system may be secured and unsecured repeatedly over time without the risk of wear and tear. The use of hook and loop fasteners, such as VELCRO®, as anchor point and anchor point coupler allow the closure system to be repeatedly secured and unfastened without the risk of wear and loss of adhesiveness over time.
FIG. 12 illustrates a front view of the closure system for athletic wear 100 in a semi-secured position, immediately before the locking point coupler 108 engages the locking point 106. The locking point coupler 108 is completely folded over the longitudinal strip 104b and releasably affixed to the locking point 106. The hook and loop connectors of the locking point 106 and locking point coupler 108 are affixed to one another when the elongate connector 104 is folded over the engagement point 105. The hook and loop connectors of the locking point 106 and locking point coupler 108, permit locking point 106 and locking point coupler 108 to be reversibly fixed to one another. Next, the locking flap 110 is folded and placed on top of the outer surface 104b of the elongate connector. The locking flap fastener 116 is pressed against locking flap fastener 118. The association between the locking flap fasteners 116 and 118 releasably holds the locking flap 110 against the exterior surface of the elongate connector 104b, in order to secure the closure system 100.
FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of the closure system 100 in a secured position. The locking flap 110 completely covers the exterior surface 104b of the elongate connector 104 after it has been folded over the engagement point 105. The supplemental locking member 120 disposed on the inner surface 114 of the locking flap and supplemental locking member 122 disposed on the surface 104b of the elongate connector exterior engage one another and releasably affix the locking flap 110 to the elongate connector 104. The supplemental locking members 120 and 122 may be made of a flexible, adhesive material such as hook and loop fasteners, such as VELCRO®, in order to permit a secure connection between the flap and the fastener when they touch one another. Supplemental locking member 120 is configured to releasably adhere to supplemental locking member 122, and locking flap fastener 116 is configured to releasably adhere to locking flap fastener 118. For example, if the supplemental locking member 120 and locking flap fastener 116 contain loop fasteners, supplemental locking member 122 and locking flap fastener 118 contain hook fasteners and vice versa. In this example, locking flap fasteners 116 and 118 and supplemental locking members 120 and 122 will always be the same type of adhesive materials, such as loop fasteners. Alternatively, the locking flap fasteners 116 and 118 may be connected directly to the anchor point 107.
FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate side views of the closure system 100 of FIG. 13 in a secured position. The locking flap 110 and elongate connector 104 of the illustrated embodiment are both made of a thin, flexible, foldable material such as a material that has polyyamide, polyester, polypropylene, or elastane fibers. When the fastener 100 is in a closed, secured position, the elongate connector 104 extends under the longitudinal strip 105b and through the aperture 105a, up over and across the top of the longitudinal strip 105b, and across the locking point 106. The locking flap 110 covers the elongate connector 104 when it is folded over the engagement point 105 in order to secure the closure system 100 into a secured position. The figures illustrate the elongate connector 104 and locking flap 110 affixed to a waistband 109 of a first piece of athletic attire, however the elongate connector 104 and locking flap 110 may be affixed to any part of a piece of athletic wear. FIG. 16 illustrates perspective view of the closure system 100 of FIG. 13 in a closed, secured, fastened position. FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate top and bottom views, respectively, of the closure system 100 of FIG. 13 in a closed, secured, fastened position.
FIG. 19 illustrates an additional embodiment of the present invention. The engagement point 205 has a longitudinal strip 205b that is secured to a second piece of athletic attire 203 at its distal ends 205c by, for example, a threaded or a glued connection. The longitudinal strip 205b may be made of a flexible material including but not limited to an elastic material that has polyyamide, polyester, polypropylene, or elastane fibers, such as Lycra. When the longitudinal strip 205b is secured to the second garment 203 at its distal ends 205c, the longitudinal strip 205b and second piece of athletic wear 203 enclose an aperture 205a. Elongate connector 204 is attached to a first piece of athletic wear 202 at anchor point 207. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 19, the anchor point is configured on the waistband 209 of the first piece of athletic wear. Locking point 206 and locking point coupler 208 are corresponding elements of a reversibly mateable connector system such as hook and loop fasteners. Locking point coupler 208 is disposed on the distal end of the elongate connector 204 on an inner surface 204a. Locking flap 210 is connected to the first piece of athletic wear at an attachment point 212. Locking flap 210 ensures a more secure connection between the anchor point 206 and anchor point coupler 208 via locking flap fasteners 216 and 218. The closure system 200 of the embodiment possesses all of the same elements of the closure system 100 depicted in FIGS. 6-18. Though arranged differently with respect to one another, the elements operate in a similar fashion to produce identical results as the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 6-18.
FIGS. 20-24 illustrate an additional embodiment of the present invention. Groups of closure systems 300 are used collectively to secure first and second pieces of athletic wear 302, 303 to one another. The group 300 of fasteners provides a stronger connection between the garments than one single fastener. A group of closure systems 300 are affixed to the waistband 309 of the first piece of athletic wear 302 at equally spaced distances with respect to one another. The closure systems in each group 300 each have an elongate connector 304, an engagement point 305, and a locking flap 310. In each closure system, the elongate connector 304 and locking flap 310 are releasably attached to first piece of athletic wear 302. The elongate connector is attached to he first piece of athletic wear at anchor point 307. The locking flap 310 is connected to the first piece of athletic wear at attachment point 312. The engagement point 305 is releasably attached to a second piece of athletic attire 303. The first and second pieces of athletic wear 302 and 303 are preferably athletic clothing, specifically a pair of athletic shorts and an athletic shirt, and may be made of a stretch fabric material. FIGS. 20, 21, and 22 illustrate the group 300 in an open position, before the elongate connectors 304 engage the engagement points 305. FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate the group 300 in a closed, secured position, after the engagement points 305 are engaged with elongate connector 304 and the locking flap 310 secures the closure system 300. Various numbers and arrangements of fasteners may be applied without departing from the scope of the present invention.
An alternate embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 25-28. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 25-28 the engagement point is embodied as the flexible loop 401, while the elongate connector 400 is depicted as a strap. The locking point and locking point coupler are depicted as a latch and track connector. The latch and track connector may be a scaled down version of the locking portions provided to reversibly lock a door chain. As shown, the latch means 402 is depicted as a tab 404 raised from the surface of the elongate connector by a connecting bar 406. Though the tab is depicted as a flat member having an oval shape, one of skill in the arts will appreciate that a number of different configurations may be used for the latch means while retaining the inventive spirit disclosed herein. The track means 408 comprises a shallow pocket 410 sized to receive the tab 404 of the latch means 402. A narrow slot 412 is formed in the shallow pocket 410 to receive the connecting bar 406, allowing for the tab 404 to be completely inserted into the shallow pocket 410.
FIGS. 26-28 shows a cross-sectional view along axis C-C of the latch and track embodiment as it is moved from an unfastened to a secured position. Similar to the process depicted with the hook and loop embodiment, the elongate connector 400 is passed through the engagement point 401 at the aperture 403 formed between the second piece of athletic attire 405 and the engagement point 401. The elongate connector 400 is passed through the engagement point 401 until the approximate midpoint between the anchor point 407 and the latch means 402. Once the elongate connector 400 reaches the approximate midpoint, the elongate connector is folded back over on itself. At this point, the latch means 402, is inserted into the track means 408, and the shallow pocket 410 retains the tab 404, maintaining the elongate connector 400 in a secured position.
Referring to FIGS. 29-34 an eye and hook embodiment is depicted. In this embodiment, the locking point and locking point coupler comprise an eye and hook connector system. As depicted, the eye attachment portion 502 is a solid ring constructed of plastic, aluminum or another suitable low cost, lightweight material. The eye portion 502 is removably attachable to the hook portion 504 located on the end of the elongate connector 500. In an alternate embodiment depicted in FIGS. 31 and 32, the hook portion 504′ has a spring biased hinge 506′ which allows for more secure attachment to the eye portion 502′.
FIGS. 30 and 33-34 show a cross-sectional view along axis D-D of the eye and hook embodiment as it is moved from an unfastened to a secured position. The process is identical to the one described in conjunction with the latch and track system above, with the exception that the hook attachment portion 504 engages the eye attachment portion 502. The elongate connector 500 is passed through the engagement portion 501 at the aperture 503 formed between the second piece of athletic wear 505 and the engagement point 501. The elongate connector 500 is passed through the engagement point 501 until the approximate midpoint between the anchor point 507 and the hook connector 502. Once the elongate connector 500 reaches the approximate midpoint, the elongate connector is folded back over on itself. At this point, the hook attachment means 504, is inserted into the eye attachment means 502, and the eye attachment means 502 retains the hook attachment means 504 in a secured position.
Referring to FIGS. 35-36 a zipper embodiment is depicted. In this embodiment the locking point coupler 604 and locking point 606 comprise mating portions of a zipper connection. In FIGS. 35-36 the elongate connector 600 is depicted as a generally flat strap. The zipper slider 602 is oriented outwardly from the exterior surface of the elongate connector 600, and a locking point coupler 604 is defined as row of zipper teeth attached to the distal end of elongate connector 600. The locking point 606 is defined as a corresponding row of zipper teeth 606 is attached to the proximal end of the elongate connector 600. When the zipper embodiment is moved into a secured position utilizing the same procedure described above with respect to the alternate embodiments, the zipper slider 602 and corresponding rows of zipper teeth form a solid zippered connection 608. The solid zippered connection 608 holds the locking point coupler 604toward the locking point 606 and secures closure system in a secured position.
Referring to FIGS. 37-38 a magnet embodiment is depicted. In this embodiment the locking point and locking point coupler comprise oppositely charged magnets, 702 and 704. The oppositely charged magnets 702 and 704 are disposed on the interior surface of the elongate connector 700 though the locking point may be disposed on additional parts of the first piece of athletic wear without departing from the inventive spirit disclosed herein. As shown in FIG. 37, one of the magnet pairs comprising the locking point coupler 702 is attached near the distal end of the elongate connector 700 while the corresponding magnet comprising the locking point is attached near the proximal end of the elongate connector 700. When the magnet embodiment is moved into a secured position utilizing the same procedure described above with respect to the alternate embodiments, the oppositely charged magnets form a magnetic connection 706. The magnetic connection 706 holds the locking point coupler of the elongate connector 700 against the locking point, maintaining the athletic attire closure system in a secured position.
Referring to FIGS. 39-40 a snap fastener embodiment is depicted. In this embodiment the locking point coupler and locking point comprise male and female snap fasteners, 802 and 804 respectively. In the embodiment of the fastener depicted in FIG. 39-40 the male portion of the snap fastener 802 is located on the distal end of the elongate connector 800, and the female portion of the snap fastener 804 is located at the anchoring point near the proximal end. When the snap fastener embodiment is moved into a secured position utilizing the same procedure described above with respect to the alternate embodiments, the male and female portions of the snap fastener mate to form a snap fastener connection 806. The snap fastener connection 806 holds the distal end of the elongate connector 800 against the anchoring point maintaining the athletic attire closure system in a secured position.
In an alternate embodiment of the closure system 900 depicted in FIGS. 41-44, the elongate connector comprises a loop 902. Bungee cord or a loop of resilient fabric such as Lycra are among the many materials that may be used to construct the elongate connector 902. Other suitable materials may be used to construct the elongate connector 902 without departing from the spirit of the invention, however. The elongate connector 902 is anchored at two ends, defining an anchor point 907 of the elongate connector 902. As depicted in the embodiment shown, a locking point is located between the ends of the anchor point 907. The locking point may take the form of a toggle 904 such as is typically used in textile manufacturing (FIG. 41). In an alternate embodiment of the closure system 900′ a miniature plastic bollard 906′ may also be used to maintain the loop 902′ in a secured position (FIG. 42).
FIGS. 43-44 illustrate the cross sections G-G of the closure system 900 as the elongate connector 902 is moved from an unfastened, to a secured position. Similar to the processes depicted above, the elongate connector 902 is passed through the aperture 903 created between the engagement point 901 and the second piece of athletic wear 905. The elongate connector 902 is passed through engagement point 901 until the approximate midpoint between the anchor point, and a distal end of the elongate connector. Once the elongate connector 902 reaches the approximate midpoint, the elongate connector 902 is folded back over on itself. At this point, the elongate connector 902 is stretched around the toggle 904.
FIGS. 45-48 illustrate alternate embodiments utilizing a plurality of engagement portions. In one embodiment of the closure system 1000 depicted in FIG. 45, the plurality of engagement portions are reinforced slits 1001 formed in the first and second pieces of athletic wear 1002 and 1003. The elongate connector 1004 weaves between the engagement portions 1001 of the first and second pieces of athletic wear 1002 and 1003, forming a zigzag like pattern. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 45 the reinforced slits 1001 are holes cut in the first and second pieces of athletic wear that are strengthened by stitching. One of skill in the art will appreciate that a number of different ways of creating reinforced slits will accomplish the same result as the embodiment described. Anchor point 1007 is disposed on the first piece of athletic wear 1002, connecting the elongate connector 1004 to the first piece of athletic wear. Locking point coupler 1008 is located on distal end of the elongate connector 1004. Locking point 1006 is separated from anchor point 1007 by engagement points 1001 running the length of the first and second pieces of athletic wear 1002 and 1003.
In one embodiment depicted in FIG. 46 the plurality of engagement portions are formed from a continual lace 1100. The continual lace 1100 can be disposed within a portion of one of the pieces of athletic wear 1101 such as a hem or waistband. At holes 1102 the continual lace 1100 exits the interior of the piece of athletic wear 1101 and form loops 1104. The continual lace 1100 terminates in lace ends 1106, which exit the piece of athletic wear at apertures 1108. In one embodiment depicted in FIG. 47, the continual lace 1100 engages eyelets 1110 formed in the piece of athletic wear, and the loops 1104 can be tightened or loosened via the lace ends 1106 and secured via a bowed knot. In another embodiment depicted in FIG. 48, the lace ends 1106 are inserted through eyelets 1112 on the second piece of athletic wear 1103 and hook and loop fasteners 1114 secure the continual lace 1100.
FIGS. 49-51 depict alternate embodiments of the locking flap discussed in connection with FIGS. 6-18. The locking flap depicted in FIGS. 50-52 has locking flap fasteners 1202 and 1204. As depicted in FIG. 49 the locking flap 1200 also has an interior 1210. One portion of the locking flap fasteners 1202 is disposed on the interior surface 1210 of the locking flap 1200. In FIG. 50 the locking means is a male portion of a snap fastener 1212. The snap fastener 1212 is disposed on the distal end of the locking flap 1200. A corresponding female portion of a snap fastener 1214 is disposed on the same piece of athletic attire as the locking flap 1200 and anchoring point 1208. As shown in FIG. 50 when the locking member is configured in the secured position, the male and female portions of the snap connector mate forming secure snap connection 1216. In the secured position the inner surface of the locking member 1210 compresses the elongate connector 1206.
FIG. 51 depicts an embodiment where two male portions of a snap fastener 1302 and 1304 are disposed on the inner surface of the locking member 1306. One of the snap fasteners 1302 is disposed toward the distal end of the locking flap 1300 while the other 1304 is disposed more towards the proximal end. Female portions of a snap fastener 1307 and 1308 correspond to male portions 1302 and 1304 respectively. Female portion 1307 is disposed on the exterior surface of the elongate connector 1310. Female portion 1308 is disposed on a piece of athletic attire. When the locking flap is configured in the secured position, the snap fasteners 1302 and 1304 on the inner surface of the locking flap mate with the corresponding snap fasteners on the surface of the second fastening portion 1307 and the second piece of athletic attire 1308. A more secure locking mechanism is provided by the additional snap connection formed between the second fastening portion and the locking member.
In one embodiment depicted in FIG. 52-53 the connector system 1400 is supplemented by additional portions of the engagement point disposed on the first piece of athletic wear 1402. As depicted in FIG. 52-53, the engagement point is formed from an engagement point loop 1405a and engagement point slits 1405b. The engagement point loop 1405b is attached to the first piece of athletic wear 1402 at engagement loop anchor points 1405c. Similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 45, the engagement point slit 1405b is a reinforced slit in the second piece of athletic wear 1403. The engagement point slit 1405b is sized to receive the engagement loop 1405a. The closure system for athletic wear 1400 is attached by advancing the first piece of athletic wear 1402 towards the second piece of athletic wear 1403, and inserting the engagement loop 1405a into the engagement point slit 1405b. Once the engagement point loop 1405a is inserted into the engagement point slit 1405b, the engagement point loop 1405a protrudes from the surface of the second piece of athletic wear 1403. The closure system 1400 is secured by inserting the elongate connector 1404 through the engagement point loop 1405a and securing the locking point coupler 1408 to the locking point 1406. When the locking point 1406 and locking point coupler 1408 are thus secured, the elongate connector 1404 engages the engagement loop 1405a, the engagement loop holds the holding the first piece of athletic wear toward the second piece of athletic wear via the engagement loop anchor points 1405c. The engagement loop 1405a further holds the second piece of athletic wear 1403 towards the first piece of athletic wear 1402 by engaging the reinforced slits 1405b in the second piece of athletic wear.
An interchangeable kit (not shown) is also contemplated with respects to the present invention. The kit is composed of a series of shirts and shorts of different sizes, designs, and colors. The shirts and shorts for the kit each have compatible portions of the closure system described in the aforementioned embodiments. If the elongate connector, anchor point, and locking flap are located on the shorts in a given kit, then the engagement point is located on the shirt in the same kit. It is contemplated that the user may swap in and out numerous shirts and shorts of various sizes, colors, or designs, so as to vary the first and second pieces of athletic wear to which the elements of the closure system are attached.
The embodiments shown depict the various attachment means attached to distal and proximal ends of the second attachment portion. Additionally, the embodiments depict various means for locking on the inner surface of the locking member, outer surface of the second attachment portion, and upon the second garment. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the opposite configuration produces similar results without detracting from the inventive spirit disclosed herein.
