WEARABLE TOWEL WITH LOOP AND METHOD OF FORMATION AND USE
A wearable towel with a locking loop device configurable for multiple applications and its method of use are described. In some configurations, the wearable towel is secured to the wrist or forearm by a band and may be worn wrapped around the wrist or forearm in a corkscrew fashion for use as a towel, a sports-wrist sweatband, or a utility towel. Alternatively, the wearable towel may be wrapped around the forehead or the face for use as a sweatband/headband or facemask, and secured by tucking the free short end of the towel through the loop. The particular shape and fabric composition of the invention contribute to the comfort and ease of use of the wearable towel on the arm, head, or face.
1. Technical Field
This invention relates to a device and methods for forming and using a wearable towel. Specifically, the invention relates to a wearable towel with a loop device configurable for multiple applications and methods for its formation and use.
2. State of the Art
Towels are widely used throughout all developed societies and are used in many different ways. The potential uses for a small, personal towel, such as a utility, sweat, or protective towel, are extensive. Utility towels are used to wipe dirt or other undesirable material from a work surface. Sweat towels are used to absorb sweat from the face, head, arms or any other body part during outdoor/indoor work or athletic activity. A towel can also be used as a protective device, such as when covering the nose and mouth during a dust storm or other settings where there is a high level of particulate matter in the air.
Using a personal towel in the aforementioned and other similar applications generally requires carrying the towel, either in one hand or in a separate storage container which must be kept nearby. Alternatively, a personal towel can be tied around the head or face, if long enough. Some towels may be clipped to the outside of a backpack or clothing article. Tying a towel for transport and untying a towel for use is unnecessarily time-consuming. Towels not attached to the person of the user may be misplaced or lost. Methods of using a personal towel are cumbersome and inconvenient. For example, carrying a towel limits use of the carrying hand. Tying a towel to a body part, such as a forehead or wrist, results in a bulky, unwieldy mass of towel comprising the knot.
Accordingly, an invention is needed to provide a compact personal utility towel which is wearable and therefore allows for hands-free transport and immediate unrestricted use, and does not require knotting the towel or other cumbersome means to attach the towel to a person.
SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTSThe present invention discloses a wearable towel with loop device configurable for multiple applications, including a method of formation and methods of use. The wearable towel with loop may be worn on the wrist, around the forehead as a sweat-towel, or around the face in dusty environments, in a few non-limiting examples. The invention is, thus, configurable for multiple applications and environments.
Disclosed is a wearable towel comprising a fabric comprising a shape, two first edges, a second edge, and a gathered edge; a loop comprising a member; and a coupling seam; wherein the gathered edge is coupled to the loop by the coupling seam.
In some embodiments, the size ratio of the second edge to one of the two first edges is greater than 0.35. In some embodiments, the fabric comprises a blend of a cotton fiber between 90% and 98% by weight, and a spandex fiber between 2% and 10% by weight. In some embodiments, the percentage of the cotton fiber is 95% and the percentage of the spandex fiber is 5%. In some embodiments, the spandex fibers are oriented perpendicular to the second edge. In some embodiments, the fabric comprises a weight of between three (3) ounces and ten (10) ounces per square yard. In some embodiments, the fabric further comprises an antimicrobial compound. In some embodiments, the first edge comprises a rolled edge. In some embodiments, the shape is a six-sided irregular polygon. In some embodiments, the first edge measures between 16 inches and 28 inches. In some embodiments, the second edge measures between eight (8) inches and fourteen (14) inches. In some embodiments, the coupling seam is located at the midpoint of the distance between the two first edges. In some embodiments, the coupling seam is located at a point between 20% and 45% of the distance one of the two first edges to the second first edge. In some embodiments, the member is an elastomeric member. In come embodiments, the member comprises a width between 0.75 inches and 1.25 inches. In some embodiments, the member comprises a ribbed weave.
Disclosed is a method of forming a wearable towel comprising the steps of cutting a second edge of a fabric such that the second edge is divided into a first length and two second lengths; folding two first edges of the fabric toward a centerline perpendicular to the first length; and attaching a loop to the first length of the folded second edge.
In some embodiments, the method further comprises a second folding step wherein the two folded first edges are folded a second time toward the centerline perpendicular to the first length.
Disclosed is a method of using a wearable towel comprising the steps of placing a loop over a body part; wrapping a length of a fabric around the body part in a corkscrew direction; and tucking a short end beneath the wrapped length of the fabric thereby securing the fabric to the body part.
Disclosed is a method of using a wearable towel comprising the steps of wrapping a length of a fabric around a body part; passing a short end of the fabric through a loop; and adjusting a desired tension of the wrapped length of fabric by moving the fabric through the loop.
The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following more detailed description of the particular embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
Embodiments of this invention disclose a wearable towel with a loop device configurable for multiple applications, including methods of formation and use. Creating a towel with a means wherein it may be removably and comfortably attached to the person makes use of a personal utility towel less cumbersome. Various embodiments of the invention disclosed herein describe such a device. The attachment means is by way of a loop coupled to a gathered short-edge of the towel, such as by stitching, for example. The loop may fit over a relatively small body part, like the wrist. Alternatively, the opposite end of the towel may be passed through the loop itself, allowing the towel to be wrapped around a larger body part, such as the head or the face.
Additionally, methods of forming a wearable towel are disclosed. Finally, various alternative methods of use are disclosed. The drawing figures are used to illustrate a representative embodiment of the device itself, a method of formation, and various methods of use, and in no way are intended to limit the disclosed invention to the embodiments shown in the figures. They are described fully herein below.
As shown by
In many, but not all, embodiments, wearable towel 100 is worn on the user's forearm, wherein the user passes loop 112 over her hand onto her wrist. In this configuration, and in some embodiments, wearable towel 100 also functions as a sweatband. Fabric 102 is then wrapped around the user's forearm with second edge 104 tucked underneath the wrap, between the wrap the skin (see
In some embodiments, the length of each of the two first edges 103 is between 16 inches and 28 inches. In some embodiments, the length of second edge is between 8 inches and 14 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the two first edges 103 is 16.25 inches, the length of second edge 104 is 11.50 inches, and a useable area 125 is 188 square inches. Advantages inherent the aforementioned configurations and dimensions of shape 108 include, but are not limited to, ability to “wrap-and-tuck” fabric 108 around the user's forearm while retaining the ability to use wearable towel 100 as a bandana/headband or a facemask, as discussed herein below. Additionally, the generally elongate-rectangular configuration of shape 108 tends to maximize the size of useable area 125 and minimize wasted material during formation of wearable towel 100.
There are multiple other configurations for shape 108, each with advantages and disadvantages which have been determined by experimentation. In some embodiments, shape 108 is an ellipse; in some embodiments, the long axis of the ellipse is approximately 16 inches. In this and similar example embodiments, shape 108 has the advantage of wrapping well around the forearm and the disadvantage of presenting a relatively narrow but elongate useable area for wiping of sweat or other material.
In some embodiments, shape 108 is a rectangle. In some embodiments, shape 108 is a square; in some embodiments, a side of the square measures between ten and thirteen inches. In some embodiments, a side of the square measures 11.75 inches. In these and some similar embodiments, the 1:1 length-to-width (one fist edge 103 to second edge 104) ratio of fabric 102 creates excess fabric width which is bulky, and makes it difficult to wrap fabric 102 around the forearm and to tuck the wrapped fabric 102 securely. When wrapped around the user's forearm, fabric 102 is also bulky and not aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, this particular shape and configuration makes it impossible to utilize wearable towel 100 as a bandana/headband or a facemask.
In some embodiments, shape 108 is an eye-shape with long axis 118 of between 18 and 23 inches and a short axis 119 between 7 and 10 inches. In some embodiments, the eye-shape long axis 118 is 17 inches and the short axis is between 9 and 10 inches. In some embodiments wherein shape 108 is an eye-shape, disadvantages inherent to the particular dimensions and eye-shape include impossibility of use as a bandana/headband or face mask, and great difficulty in tucking the wrapped fabric 102 when worn on the user's forearm. Each of these difficulties arises from a greatly attenuated second edge 104, making it difficult to either tuck fabric 102 or for loop 112 to secure fabric 102 (loop 112, including its characteristics and function, is discussed extensively herein below).
In some embodiments, shape 108 is an eight-sided irregular polygon with long axis 118 between 18 and 22 inches and a short axis 119 of between 6 and 8 inches. In these and similar embodiments, the dimensions of shape 108 make it impossible to use as a bandana/headband or facemask. As with the eye-shape discussed herein above, the eight-sided irregular polygon comprises fabric 102 which is narrow approaching second edge 104 and, consequently, difficult to secure adequately within loop 112. Additionally, fabric 102 is bulkier and more difficult to securely wrap-and-tuck around the user's forearm.
As shown in
In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in
In addition to coupling seam 115, loop 112 comprises a member 113 having a loop length 114. In some embodiments, member 113 is an elastomeric member. An elastomeric member is advantageous, although not absolutely necessary for the function of loop 112. For example, an elastomeric member 113 may be stretched slightly to allow the user to pass his hand through loop 112 for forearm use of wearable towel 100, allowing member 113 to tightened slightly and comfortably around the user's wrist or forearm. Alternatively, a non-elastic member 113 may be used, however a longer loop length 114 is required to allow passage over the user's hand, which is generally larger in diameter than the wrist or forearm. Member 113 may comprise an elastomeric fabric, whether natural or synthetic. In some embodiments, member 113 comprises a ribbed weave 116, as shown in
Loop length 114 may assume various values, depending upon whether a small or large loop 112 is desired. In some embodiments, loop length 114 is between 5.5 inches and 10 inches. In some embodiments, loop length 114 is between 6 inches and 9 inches. In some embodiments, loop length 114 includes the circumference of formed loop 112 plus an additional 1 inch for forming coupling seam 115 by using ½ inch from each end of member 113. Loop length 114 is chosen, in some embodiments, based upon the gender of the user. For example, in some embodiments wherein the user is a woman, length 114 is 6.5 inches. In some embodiments wherein the user is a man, length 114 is 8.5 inches. The aforementioned loop lengths were determined by experimentation and use of wearable towel 100 by persons of each gender and various body sizes. A loop length 114 of 6.5 inches provides comfortable, secure use of wearable towel 100 in multiple configurations and applications by most women, and a loop length 114 of 8.5 inches is preferable for most men. As already mentioned, these lengths include the total circumference of loop 112 plus an additional 1 inch for formation of coupling seam 115.
The orientation of cotton fiber 121 and spandex fiber 122 in a blended material composition of fabric 102 is also important. For example, creating mild elasticity parallel to long axis 118 of shape 108 is desirable because this elasticity tends to constrict forearm-wrapped fabric 102 gently and comfortably against the forearm, tenting to secure the wrapped fabric 102 in place, resist loosening, and slightly decrease bulk. Conversely, creating some rigidity perpendicular to long axis 118 of shape 108 allows for easier and more secure dispersal when fabric 102 is wrapped around the forehead or face, such as shown in
Additional compounds and treatments may be added to fabric 102, according to wearable towel 100's intended use. For example, in some embodiments, fabric 102 further comprises an antimicrobial compound. Antimicrobial compounds discourage grown of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes commonly colonizing towels used to absorb sweat. Some specific, but non-limiting, examples of such antimicrobial compounds include chelated elemental silver, quaternary ammonium compounds, and other non-toxic antimicrobial compounds commercially available and known to those in the art.
In embodiments of the invention wherein shape 208 is generally rectangular, useable area 125 is calculated by multiplying the length of one first edge 102 by the length of second edge 204. In embodiments wherein shape 208 is not rectangular, a maximum value for usable area 125 is something less than the product of the length of the long axis of shape 208 and the short axis of shape 208. It is advantageous to form wearable towel 100 to maximize useable area 125 while still allowing for a flatly-wrapped towel 100 which is comfortable, not too bulky, and aesthetically pleasing. In some embodiments, useable area 125 measures between 170 square inches and 200 square inches.
Cutting step 210 comprises cutting a gathered edge 205 of fabric 202 such that gathered edge 205 is divided into first length 250 and two second lengths 251. Cutting step 210 shapes gathered edge 205 such that fabric 202 may be appropriately folded (in subsequent steps) to create a point of attachment between fabric 202 and a loop 212 at a coupling seam 215. In some embodiments, cutting step is performed using scissors or any other suitable cutting instrument, manual or automated without limitation, to cut fabric 202 on an angle to allow for first length 250 comprising approximately 30% of gathered edge 105, as shown in
Folding step 220 comprises folding two first edges 203 of fabric 202 toward the center of fabric 202.
Attaching step 230 comprises attaching a loop to the first length of the folded second edge. Attaching step 230 forms coupling seam 215 and is illustrated by
Placing step 310 comprises placing a loop 312 over a wrist or a forearm. The user passes a loop 312 over her hand and onto her wrist, in some embodiments. This is not meant to be limiting; placing step 310 may be performed using an ankle or similar generally cylindrical, elongate body part. In some embodiments, placing step 310 is facilitated wherein loop 312 is an elastomeric loop as discussed herein above with reference to loop 112.
Wrapping step 320 comprises wrapping a length of a fabric 302 around the wrist or the forearm in a corkscrew direction. Again, use of the wrist of forearm is by non-limiting example only as mentioned herein above.
Tucking step 330 comprises tucking a short edge beneath the wrapped length of fabric 302 thereby securing the fabric on the wrist or forearm. The user tucks short end 304 under wrapped fabric 302, lodging short end 304 in between wrappings of fabric 302 and the user's skin. In some embodiments, the user tucks short end 304 between wrappings of fabric 302 wherein short end 304 does not contact the user's skin. Friction between the skin and fabric 302, or fabric 302 with itself, wrappings comfortably and securely holds shot end 304 in place and resists loosening of the fabric 302 wrappings.
Wrapping step 410 comprises wrapping a length of a wearable towel around a forehead or a face. Wrapping step 410 may involves some body part too large to pass through a loop.
Passing step 420 comprises passing a short end of a fabric through a loop. This action forms a “noose” of fabric encircling the body part. The noose is maintained through friction between fabric 402 and loop 412, as mentioned herein above.
Adjusting step 430 comprises moving loop 412 with respect to fabric 402 to adjust the size of the “noose” and the tension on fabric 402. Friction between fabric 402 and loop 412 resists slipping and tends to keep loop 412 and fabric 402 in the adjusted position. In some embodiments, loop 412 is an elastomeric loop, the elastomeric properties increasing the ability to precisely tension the “noose” of fabric 402 around the body part.
This invention overcomes the aforementioned and other difficulties encountered with using prior art, like the need of a comfortable, non-obtrusive way to secure and “wear” a personal towel without carrying or knotting the towel, for example. The wearable towel with loop is designed to create a practical, versatile, and comfortable means of providing the user instant access to a personal towel. The widespread availability of a wearable towel with loop will aid athletes, vacationers, hikers, outdoor workers, rescue workers, mechanics, and other service providers to wipe sweat or dirt from surfaces, and to protect mouth, nose, and respiratory tract from inhalation of particulate matter. This invention also has applications for use in many other situations requiring a readily available personal utility towel.
Exceptional results can be obtained with the wearable towel with loop device, method of formation, and methods of use described in the various embodiments of the invention. The device is inexpensive to manufacture and easy to use. Thus, the disclosed method of use and various embodiments of the wearable towel with loop device have immediate applicability in the recreational and service industries, and similarly across other applications.
The embodiments and examples set forth herein were presented in order to best explain the present invention and its practical application and to thereby enable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the foregoing description and examples have been presented for the purposes of illustration and example only. The description as set forth is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the teachings above.
Claims
1. A wearable towel comprising:
- a fabric comprising a shape, two first edges, a second edge, and a gathered edge wherein the gathered edge comprises a first length and two second lengths;
- a loop; and
- a coupling seam;
- wherein the first length of the gathered edge is coupled to the loop by the coupling seam.
2. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein a size ratio of the second edge to one of the two first edges is greater than 0.35.
3. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the fabric comprises a blend of a cotton fiber between 90% and 98% by weight, and a spandex fiber between 2% and 10% by weight.
4. The wearable towel of claim 3, wherein a percentage percentage of the cotton fiber is 95% and the percentage of the spandex fiber is 5%.
5. The wearable towel of claim 3, wherein the spandex fibers are oriented perpendicular to the second edge.
6. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the fabric comprises a weight of between three (3) ounces and ten (10) ounces per square yard.
7. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the fabric further comprises an antimicrobial compound.
8. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the two first edges comprises rolled edges.
9. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the shape is a six-sided irregular polygon.
10. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the two first edges measure between 16 inches and 28 inches each.
11. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the second edge measures between 8 inches and 14 inches.
12. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the coupling seam is located at a midpoint of a distance between the two first edges.
13. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the coupling seam is located at a point between 20% and 45% of a distance along a short axis between the two first edges.
14. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the member is an elastomeric member.
15. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the member comprises a width of greater than 0.75 inches and less than 1.25 inches.
16. The wearable towel of claim 1, wherein the member comprises a ribbed weave.
17. A method of forming a wearable towel comprising the steps of:
- cutting a second edge of a fabric such that the second edge is divided into a first length and two second lengths;
- folding two first edges of the fabric toward a centerline perpendicular to the first length; and
- attaching a loop to the folded first length.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising a second folding step folding two folded first edges toward the centerline perpendicular to the first length.
19. A method of using a wearable towel comprising the steps of:
- placing an elastic loop over a wrist or a forearm;
- wrapping a length of a fabric around a body part in a corkscrew direction; and
- tucking a short edge beneath the wrapped length of the fabric, thereby securing the fabric on the body part.
20. A method of using a wearable towel comprising the steps of:
- wrapping a length of a wearable towel around a body part;
- passing a second edge of a fabric through a loop; and
- adjusting a desired tension of the wrapped length of the fabric by moving the fabric through the loop.
Type: Application
Filed: May 29, 2015
Publication Date: Dec 1, 2016
Inventor: Mark A. Betts (Gilbert, AZ)
Application Number: 14/726,342