Miscellaneous Patents (Class 2/1)
  • Patent number: 11779070
    Abstract: A garment made includes at least a waist portion, a first leg portion, and a second leg portion. The waist portion further includes a pocket on the front of the garment, where the pocket is defined by at least the waist portion and a backing panel. The backing panel may be constructed from a resilient material and is reconfigurable between an empty configuration and an expanded configuration. When in the empty configuration, the backing panel may include a plurality of folded panels and may be aligned with the waist portion. When in the expanded configuration, the backing panel may be stretched to extend beyond the waist portion. The backing panel is reconfigured from the empty configuration and the expanded configuration when an object is disposed within the pocket. The pocket is sized and shaped to receive small personal items, such as smartphones, keys, money, credit cards, identification, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: Under Armour, Inc.
    Inventors: Cam Yen Le, Joshua Baumer, Gabriel Rodriguez, Allison Douville
  • Patent number: 11557197
    Abstract: An automated alert system, device and method designed to deliver crisis notifications within seconds to law enforcement personnel. The alert system and method is designed to enhance the response time to an active shooter scenario, thereby minimizing the number of causalities or victims associated with such dangerous scenarios. The system and method uses combination of various hardware components, cellular automation and partnership with first responders to provide an advanced alert system which ensures quick responses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: ASR PATENT HOLDINGS LLC
    Inventors: Hector Delgado, James Billig
  • Patent number: 11116263
    Abstract: A gown (100) can include a body covering portion (101). The gown can optionally include sleeves (107,108) extending distally from the body covering portion. The gown can include a shoulder covering portion (106) defining a head insertion aperture (105). To make the gown self-donnable without compromising sterility of sterile portions, the body covering portion can include an accordion fold (302) or a rolled fold (303) beginning at an end (111) of the gown opposite the head insertion aperture and terminating at the sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: Medline Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Czajka, David Noskowicz, Amanda Jaron
  • Patent number: 11089824
    Abstract: Aspects herein provide for an apparel item having an integrated parachute structure and a set of intake ducts. The parachute structure is configured to transition from a first slack state to a second inflated state subsequent to air entering the set of intake ducts incident to ground locomotion of the wearer thereby increasing air resistance to wearer movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventor: Adam Parkinson
  • Patent number: 10861357
    Abstract: Aspects herein provide for an athletic bib configured to be worn during athletic activities. In exemplary aspects, the athletic bib may be formed of a knit material comprising a plurality of perforations. The athletic bib may further comprise a releasable adhesive that is selectively applied to the surface of the athletic bib that is configured to be applied to an apparel item. The result of this configuration is an athletic bib that is able to closely conform to a wearer's body shape while still providing breathability and permeability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott E. Touidjine-Williams, Peter G. Kramer
  • Patent number: 10731022
    Abstract: A foamed, opacifying element useful as a light-blocking article has a substrate; an opacifying layer disposed on the substrate, and a functional composition disposed over the opacifying layer. The functional composition comprises: (i) inorganic or organic spacer particles having a mode particle size of at least 1 ?m and up to and including 100 ?m, and which inorganic or organic spacer particles resist melt flow at a pressure of up to and including 100 psi (689.5 kPa) and a temperature of up to and including 220° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY
    Inventors: Mridula Nair, Lloyd Anthony Lobo, Kevin M. Donovan
  • Patent number: 10722007
    Abstract: A scar covering jewelry device. The scar covering jewelry device includes a pendant having a front side, a rear side, a first end, and a second end. An ornament is disposed on the front side of the pendant. A chain includes a second end and an opposing first end, wherein the first end of the chain is secured to the first end of the pendant and the second end of the chain secured to the second end of the pendant. A removable adhesive is disposed on the rear side of the pendant. The removable adhesive is configured to adhere to a bandage or directly to the wearer's skin, such that the pendant may be utilized to obscure a scar, injury, or other area of the skin the wearer wishes to cover. The removable adhesive allows the device to be removed without leaving a residue behind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Inventor: Donnese Upson-Tyler
  • Patent number: 10696813
    Abstract: A foamed, opacifying element is useful as a light-blocking article, and includes a substrate; an opacifying layer disposed on the substrate, and a functional composition disposed over the opacifying layer. The functional composition comprises a tinting material comprising one or more pigments, one or more dyes, or a combination thereof to provide a desired tint or colorant to the entire foamed, opacifying element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY
    Inventors: Lloyd Anthony Lobo, Mridula Nair, Kevin M. Donovan
  • Patent number: 10180688
    Abstract: In a method, a computer receives biometric data from sensors. The computer compares the biometric data to predefined levels of biometric data. The computer determines a score based on the biometric data. The computer compares the score to previously stored scores. The computer sends a score to conductive threads if the score is not acceptable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron K. Baughman, Arun Joseph, Brian M. O'Connell, Diwesh Pandey
  • Patent number: 10150328
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to payment cards and methods for making payment cards. In one embodiment, a card comprises a first layer and a second layer adjacent to the first layer. The second layer comprises a plurality of particles comprising metal, and the plurality of particles comprise at least about 15 volume % of the second layer. In another embodiment, a mixture is prepared comprising polymer and a plurality of particles comprising metal. The plurality of particles comprise at least about 15 volume % of the mixture. The mixture is pressed and an outer layer is applied. The mixture and outer layer are then cut to form the card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: Visa International Service Association
    Inventors: Sonia Reed, Kenneth M. Sippola, William Alexander Thaw, Mustafa Top, William B. Bedwell, Steven Crouch-Baker, Francis Louis Tanzella, Esperanza Alvarez, John Stephens Stotts
  • Patent number: 10098443
    Abstract: A hydration device is provided that includes a sleeve that is worn securely on a limb, such as a forearm, of a user and contains a bladder for holding liquid such as water, sports drinks, etc. The bladder is removable and includes a refill port and a drinking valve. The hydration device can be designed to absorb impacts while being worn, yet is light-weight and flexible enough to conform to the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: Sinergy, LLC
    Inventor: Robert Butler
  • Patent number: 10067564
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein include an arm band that captures sensor data used to identify hand gestures. When worn on the arm, the arm band permits a computing device to identify different gestures made by the hand. In one embodiment, the band measures a change in position of the tendons that control the positions of the fingers on the hand which can then be correlated to a particular hand gesture. For example, the thickness of the user's arm increases in a direction perpendicular to the palm of the hand when the fingers are extended relative to the thickness of the arm when the fingers are curled into the palm of the hand. By detecting this change in thickness, the computing device can distinguish between different gestures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Lanny S. Smoot, Michael P. Goslin, Daniel James Reetz, Joseph L. Olson
  • Patent number: 9949863
    Abstract: An undergarment including a main body having a back panel and a pair of front panels extending from opposite sides of the back panel with the front panels interconnectable to one another such that the main body defines a continuous structure. A pair of shoulder straps extend from an upper edge of the main body with each shoulder strap including a rear strap portion and a front strap portion which are interconnectable to one another such that the shoulder straps define an arm hole on each side of the undergarment. Each armhole has a lowermost point along the main body. An underbust band extends along a lower edge of the main body. Each strap front portion has a length from a free end thereof to the lowermost point which is approximately equal to a total height defined by a height of the main body at the lowermost point plus a height of the underbust band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Inventor: Michele Leibowitz
  • Patent number: 9700086
    Abstract: A multi-use garment includes a generally rectangular body of fabric material, a first and second arm hole defined through the body of fabric material and symmetrically disposed side to side. A first and a second pocket may be provided as well as a plurality of connecting elements and/or sleeve fastening elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Inventor: Michelle Gamble
  • Patent number: 9662212
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein include devices, systems, and methods for reducing the distance between two locations in tissue. In one embodiment, an anchor may reside within the right ventricle in engagement with the septum. A tension member may extend from that anchor through the septum and an exterior wall of the left ventricle to a second anchor disposed along a surface of the heart. Perforating the exterior wall and the septum from an epicardial approach can provide control over the reshaping of the ventricular chamber. Guiding deployment of the implant from along the epicardial access path and another access path into and through the right ventricle provides control over the movement of the anchor within the ventricle. The joined epicardial pathway and right atrial pathway allows the tension member to be advanced into the heart through the right atrium and pulled into engagement along the epicardial access path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: BioVentrix, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Van Bladel, Lon Annest, Murray Sheldon, Ernie Heflin, Andrew Wechsler, John Stiggelbout, Rovil Arcia, John Bower
  • Patent number: 9609898
    Abstract: The object of the invention to provide a garment for layering having better ventilation performance than conventional counterparts, and an outerwear and an inner-layer wear to be used in this garment for layering. The present invention provides a garment for layering including an outerwear, and one or more inner-layer wears worn inside the outerwear, the outerwear and at least one inner-layer wear having a vent that can be opened and closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: finetrack
    Inventor: Yotaro Kanayama
  • Patent number: 9456636
    Abstract: A method and device comprising an inspection pocket or viewing slit provided on the backside of an infant onesie wherein a caregiver may quickly, efficiently and cleanly check the contents within an infant's diaper through said slit without having to remove the infant's clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Inventor: Emily Elizabeth Emerald Blomberg
  • Patent number: 9433263
    Abstract: A dual name badge, or a kit for making the same, generally includes two name badges joined by a connector, the connector worn over a person's shoulder such that a first name badge on the person's front faces forward and a second name badge on the person's back faces the opposite direction. Thus the dual name badge is generally bi-directional. In use, generally, two name badges are printed and joined by a connector, the connector is bent to fit over a shoulder, and at least one releasable attachment is added to allow the dual name badge to attach to clothing. The first name badge may be oblique to the connector or to the second name badge. Thereby, the dual name badge is properly placed on a torso and enhances a person's identification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: J.F.R. ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Jay F. Rowland
  • Patent number: 9241523
    Abstract: A process for forming a protective hair covering includes the following steps. First, folding a fabric section into a triangle. Next, wrapping a first side of the triangle around the back of a user's head. Then, folding the triangle along two fold lines to create two tie segments in addition to a corner of the triangle forming a third tie segment. After that, tying the first tie segment and the second tie segment into a first knot in front of the third tie segment twice. Then, folding the first tie segment into a first bow. After that, folding the second tie segment into a second bow. Then, tucking and tacking the third tie segment into a third bow. The first bow, the second bow and the third bow give an appearance of a flower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Katrina Alniece Hendricks
  • Patent number: 8782814
    Abstract: A system and method for securing accessories to shoes and other articles of clothing is described. One illustrative embodiment is a system for attaching a decorative accessory to a shoe, the system comprising a shaft having first and second ends; a first shoulder secured to the first end of the shaft, the first shoulder being configured for insertion through an expandable hole in an upper portion of the shoe and configured to engage an inner surface of the upper portion of the shoe; a second shoulder secured to the second end of the shaft, the second shoulder being configured to engage the shoe; and a third shoulder adjacent to the second shoulder, the third shoulder comprising the decorative accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Jibbitz, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Schmelzer, Sheri Schmelzer
  • Patent number: 8607684
    Abstract: A flexible, multi-functional, multi-ply material mix and device, capable of providing ballistic protection are herein presented. The device and material herein presented provide multiple electronic and ballistic functionality integrated into a soft body armor that is lighter in weight and more comfortable to wear than previously available alternatives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.
    Inventor: Eric C. Hoenes
  • Patent number: 8507071
    Abstract: A sheet insulator is attached to an item of wearing apparel to provide thermal insulation. The sheet insulator has a fiber reinforced aerogel composite encapsulated within a plastic sheeting. The plastic sheeting is secured to the aerogel composite, surface to surface. The plastic sheeting and the aerogel composite have surface upsets such as elongated depressions or burrows positioned and oriented at a flexing position of the wearing apparel so that the sheet insulator is able to flex with the apparel enabling a more natural movement of the apparel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Zeroloft Corporation
    Inventors: David Sindall, Frank Gojny, Hyo Yul Kim
  • Patent number: 8495762
    Abstract: An apparatus is configured with one or more sensors arranged to detect a first shape-related parameter, one or more control elements arranged to provide a force, and circuitry operably connected to the one or more sensors and the one or more control elements to determine the force provided to the one or more control elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8428686
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring a physiological parameter includes a garment that includes a fabric that exhibits both a light transmission property and a light reflection property. The amount of light transmitted through the fabric relative to the amount of light reflected by the fabric changes when the fabric stretches in response to motion, such as the motion induced by physiological activity (e.g., heart rate). The system includes at least one source of radiation having wavelength(s) in the range of 400 to 2200 nanometers and at least one detector responsive to such incident radiation. The source and detector are associated with the fabric such that the reception of incident radiation by the detector is directly affected by a change in the amount of light transmitted through the fabric relative to the amount of light reflected by the fabric when the fabric stretches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Textronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chia Kuo, George W. Coulston
  • Patent number: 8306599
    Abstract: A process and a device are provided for monitoring the status of the body fluids of a person. The device includes a piece of clothing with ventilating ducts, a first temperature sensor (6) and a first moisture sensor (11) for measuring the inlet flow (7) into the piece of clothing and a second temperature sensor (17) and a second moisture sensor (12) for measuring the outlet flow (10) from the piece of clothing. A pressure sensor (13) is provided sensing pressure in the inlet flow. A fan (5) or a compressed-air source is provided for transporting the cooling air into the piece of clothing. A measuring and analyzing unit (14) is connected to the sensors and the fan (5) or the compressed-air source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventor: Marcus Eger
  • Patent number: 8272069
    Abstract: An apparatus is configured with one or more sensors arranged to detect a first shape-related parameter, one or more control elements arranged to provide a force, and circuitry operably connected to the one or more sensors and the one or more control elements to determine the force provided to the one or more control elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8145291
    Abstract: A garment and system includes a monitoring fabric that exhibits a light reflection property and substantially no light transmission property when the fabric is illuminated with light having wavelength(s) in the range of 400 to 2200 nanometers. The amount of useful light reflected by the fabric into an aperture of acceptance defined with respect to an imaginary axis extending from the fabric relative to the amount of light lost to the aperture of acceptance detectably changes when the fabric stretches in response to motion, as the motion induced by physiological activity (e.g., heart rate). The system includes at least one radiation source and at least one radiation detector, with the detector disposed in the aperture of acceptance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Textronics, Inc.
    Inventor: George W. Coulston
  • Patent number: 8122519
    Abstract: A system and method for securing accessories to shoes and other wearable items is described. One illustrative embodiment is a system for attaching a decorative accessory to a wearable item, the system comprising a shaft having first and second ends; a first shoulder secured to the first end of the shaft, the first shoulder being configured for insertion through an expandable hole in the wearable item and configured to engage an inner surface of the wearable item; a second shoulder secured to the second end of the shaft, the second shoulder being configured to engage the wearable item; and a third shoulder adjacent to the second shoulder, the third shoulder comprising the decorative accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Jibbitz, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Schmelzer, Sheri Schmelzer
  • Patent number: 8058343
    Abstract: Novel aqueous polyurethane dispersions and adhesive films formed therefrom are provided. The aqueous polyurethane dispersions are provided in solvent-free systems of a prepolymer comprising at least one polyether or polyester polyol, a mixture of MDI isomers, and a diol. The adhesive films from such dispersions can be heat-activated for bonding, lamination, and adhesion of textile fabrics, including stretch fabrics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Invista North America S.àr.l.
    Inventors: Hong Liu, Carmen A Covelli, Douglas K Farmer
  • Patent number: 8001617
    Abstract: The following information relates to new process of recycling garments. Although the concept of recycling garments is not new, the new process and the results of those process are both new and unexpected. Rarely is the recycling of garments as practical and as easy as the process to be presented. Additionally, these process of recycling can enable apparel manufacturers, sewing boutiques, and even home sewers, to save money and time. Benefits include sewing as little as possible while having the effect that much sewing has taken place. Another gain includes the prospect of recycling garments that failed quality control inspections due to slight imperfections. By utilizing the new process, a marketable children's apparel line can emerge, from what would normally be a loss. Consider the benefits of a new children's apparel line almost completely sewn before the recycling process begin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventor: Cristi Turney
  • Patent number: 7992217
    Abstract: An apparatus is configured with one or more sensors arranged to detect a first shape-related parameter, one or more control elements arranged to provide a force, and circuitry operably connected to the one or more sensors and the one or more control elements to determine the force provided to the one or more control elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7979963
    Abstract: A holder for securing eyeglasses, sunglasses or other personal items that may be securely incorporated into an article of clothing at the time the article is manufactured. The holder includes a base member that can be inserted into an article of clothing. The base member can be securely attached to/by a fastening device. The fastening device may have one end threaded through the article of clothing and securely affixed to the base member and the other end securely affixed to the external part of the holder. The external part of the holder can include a hanger with a support base and a loop. The holder allows a wearer to insert a temple piece of a pair of eyeglasses, or a hook attached to another personal item, through the loop and allows the item to assume a secure and relatively flat position against the wearer's body. The holder may also in include an RFID tag. The holder may also include a covered loop. The covering may be either internal or external. The covering may include a design, logo or monogram.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventors: Janice Lee-Holowka, Patricia Lee, Marc Lester
  • Publication number: 20110097215
    Abstract: An electroosmotic pump includes first and second electrodes which, during operation of the pump, are maintained at a potential difference of, for example, at least about 10V. A membrane intermediate the first and second electrodes includes fibers of an inorganic oxide, such as glass. A surface of the fibers may be functionalized to increase a charge on the membrane with, for example a silane derivative, such as a trialkoxysilane. A fluid in contact with the membrane is drawn through the membrane without the need for moving parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: The Government of the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Thomas J. O'Shaughnessy, Brandy J. White
  • Publication number: 20100325781
    Abstract: The invention is an article of manufacture and a method of its use to communicate information and even unite people sharing a common agenda or a concern. Included in the article of manufacture is a hanger, at least one soft sculpture and a garment. The hanger contains an interior side and an exterior side, and at least one pocket disposed on the exterior. The hanger also may or may not contain a display area designed to communicate a message received form a Global Computer Network. The garment component of the invention contains a similar pocket as the hanger, so that the soft sculpture can be easily transferred between the two items. The invention is very versatile. It can be used as a teaching too, as a fashion statement, as a medium of communication, or as a method of expression. Finally, the invention can be used to facilitate the expression of international solidarity and common interests of people around the world though the use of the Global Computer Network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: David Lopes
  • Patent number: 7793518
    Abstract: A clothes gathering clasp (10) is provided that is used for gathering and retaining a portion of a clothing garment. The clasp consists of an outside member (20) having a jewelry decorated external surface (22) and an internal surface (24) containing an imbedded a first magnet (26). A chain (40), or other flexible retainer, is attached onto the outside member on one end and to a jewelry decorated inside member (52) on the other. The inside member contains a second magnet (54) imbedded in its internal surface (52). The clasp functions by placing the outside member on an outer surface of a garment then gathering the material with the chain while placing the inside member opposite the outside member on an inner surface of the clothing garment. The portion of the garment gathered with the chain is then retained by the chain in conjunction with the opposed magnets that magnetically bind each other together through the garment material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Fatin B. Holleman
  • Patent number: 7725152
    Abstract: A garment and system includes a monitoring fabric comprising a first plurality of reflective yarns knitted or woven with a second plurality of stretchable yarns. The fabric exhibits both a light transmission property and a light reflection property. The amount of light transmitted through the fabric relative to the amount of light reflected by the fabric changes when the fabric stretches in response to motion, such as the motion induced by physiological activity (e.g., heart rate). The system includes at least one source of radiation having wavelength(s) in the range of 400 to 2200 nanometers and at least one detector responsive to such incident radiation. The source and detector are associated with the fabric such that the reception of incident radiation by the detector is directly affected by a change in the amount of light transmitted through the fabric relative to the amount of light reflected by the fabric when the fabric stretches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Textronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chia Chyuan Kuo, George W. Coulston
  • Patent number: 7715897
    Abstract: A garment and system includes a monitoring fabric that exhibits a light reflection property and substantially no light transmission property when the fabric is illuminated with light having wavelength(s) in the range of 400 to 2200 nanometers. The amount of useful light reflected by the fabric into an aperture of acceptance defined with respect to an axis extending from the fabric relative to the amount of light lost to the aperture of acceptance detectably changes when the fabric stretches in response to motion, as the motion induced by physiological activity (e.g., heart rate). The system includes at least one radiation source and at least one radiation detector, with the detector disposed in the aperture of acceptance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Textronics, Inc.
    Inventor: George W. Coulston
  • Publication number: 20090320173
    Abstract: A strap attachment for fastening an object to a baby garment may include an adornment for attaching to the baby garment; a strap extending from the adornment; a first fastener including two releasably engagable parts, a first engageable part fixedly attached to the strap, and a second engageable part fixedly attached to the strap between the first end and the first part of the two engageable parts; and a second fastener including two releasably engagable parts, a first engageable part of the second fastener fixedly attached to the garment at a location of the garment that is spatially separated from the adornment and from the first end of the strap, and a second engageable part of the second fastener attached to the strap at a location backing one of the first part of the first fastener and the second part of the first fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Batsheva MARKOWITZ
  • Publication number: 20090276929
    Abstract: An identification apparatus and methods of use are presented. Embodiments include a loop of flexible material, having and exterior surface. Indicia, identifying an organization, is displayed on at least a portion of the exterior surface. A container is provided to store the loop of flexible material. Some embodiments couple the container with a belt or other article of clothing or clothing accessory. The loop of flexible material may be coupled with the container. The container may serve as an anchoring point for one or more methods of displaying the loop of flexible material. Some methods of use position the loop of flexible material over portions of a user's body. Some methods of use permit one hand operation of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Lessman
  • Publication number: 20090098957
    Abstract: An athletic article to be worn while, and used in, playing flag football. The athletic article includes a garment having a waist band adapted to extend about a wearer's waist and a pair of leg members extending from the waist band and adapted to extend along at least a portion of the wearer's legs. A first fastener member is secured to the garment. The athletic article also includes a flag member having an elongate flag portion and a second fastener member secured to the elongate flag portion. The second fastener member releasably mates with the first fastener member to releasably couple the flag member to the garment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: J. Roe Hitchcock, Shelby Jay Goldblatt
  • Publication number: 20090042702
    Abstract: Disclosed is a band that improves proprioception. The band comprises a soft covering and a tension-creating device. The tension-creating device puts pressure on the skin and improves the awareness of the user of the position of their body. The band is placed over the muscle group that an improvement in proprioception is desired. The preferred placement is over the belly of a muscle in the muscle group. The preferred tension-creating device comprises two to twenty elastic rings. Other versions have the band attached to a shirt or other article of clothing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Brian Toronto, Timothy P. Dicker
  • Patent number: 7487574
    Abstract: A holder for securing eyeglasses, sunglasses or other personal items that may be securely incorporated into an article of clothing at the time the article is manufactured. The holder includes a base member that can be inserted into an article of clothing. The base member can be securely attached to an interconnecting cord. The cord may have one end threaded through the article of clothing and securely affixed to the base member and the other end securely affixed to the external part of the holder. The external part of the holder can include a hanger with a support base and a loop. The holder allows a wearer to insert a temple piece of a pair of eyeglasses, or a hook attached to another personal item, through the loop and allows the item to assume a secure and relatively flat position against the wearer's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Inventors: Janice Lee-Holowka, Patricia Lee, Marc Lester
  • Patent number: 7467418
    Abstract: The combination of: a first apparel article having a sheet layer defining a first exposed surface; a first substrate layer having a perimeter edge; a second substrate layer having a perimeter edge; a first design piece comprising thread that is formed to produce at least a part of a first viewable design and having a perimeter edge; and a second design piece having thread that is formed to produce at least a part of a second viewable design and having a perimeter edge. The first and second design pieces have a different appearance. Each of the first and second design pieces is selectively attachable to the first exposed surface of the first apparel article in relationship to either one of the first and second substrate layers in the same manner such that a selected one of the first and second substrate layers extends beyond the perimeter edge of a selected one of the design pieces to define a frame surface at least partially around the perimeter edge of the selected one of the design pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Ronald Kronenberger
  • Publication number: 20080289535
    Abstract: Provided are articles and methods for creating articles which include a representation of a planet which undergoes a morphing, or changing in color and pattern, upon application of heat, light or moisture to illustrate the effects of global warming. The article can be any article, including but not limited to clothing and pictures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: Donald Spector
  • Publication number: 20080282437
    Abstract: The present invention relates to clothing, and in particular, to clothing emitting treatment medium such as laser, vibration, frequency, electricity, and fragrance, etc. to treatment points of the human body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: MODA MEDICAL
    Inventor: Se-Hyung Park
  • Publication number: 20080269587
    Abstract: A process and a device are provided for monitoring the status of the body fluids of a person. The device includes a piece of clothing with ventilating ducts, a first temperature sensor (6) and a first moisture sensor (11) for measuring the inlet flow (7) into the piece of clothing and a second temperature sensor (17) and a second moisture sensor (12) for measuring the outlet flow (10) from the piece of clothing. A pressure sensor (13) is provided sensing pressure in the inlet flow. A fan (5) or a compressed-air source is provided for transporting the cooling air into the piece of clothing. A measuring and analyzing unit (13) is connected to the sensors and the fan (5) or the compressed-air source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: Drager Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventor: Marcus EGER
  • Patent number: 7441279
    Abstract: An apparatus for keeping a person warm while in a stand having a base connected to a tree, including a generally tubular length of material having an open end and a closed end, wherein the closed end includes a fastener for securing the apparatus to the base of the stand. A user simply inserts one or both of his or her feet and legs through the open end of the apparatus and pulls the open end of the apparatus up to a desired height. The apparatus is maintained at the desired height by an elastic band extending around the circumference of the open end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: William Lewis
  • Publication number: 20080233549
    Abstract: One embodiment of the apparatus includes clothing depicting a selected body anatomy so that when the clothing is associated with the body to be massaged the clothing presents the location of the body system of interest. Such clothing preferably forms a visual aid that is associated with a body to be massaged that shows (a) the location of a muscle system (with or without labels) perhaps including a split view overlaying muscles and underlying muscles, (b) a skeletal system depicting bony landmarks and origin, insertion and function of attached muscles, (c) a lymphatic system showing circulation paths, (d) the nine regions and quadrants of a human body, and (e) the location of organs and acupressure points including chakras. Such a visual aid would preferably be useful for allowing a student to better comprehend the meaning of terms such as medial, lateral, prone, and supine and the locations of body “landmarks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Sue Daniels
  • Publication number: 20080229469
    Abstract: Products and methods are provided for releasably securing infant and toddler clothing accessories, such as shoes, socks and hair accessories, to a child. The products include novelty articles decorated with whimsical graphics and/or cut into whimsical shapes having adhesive properties designed to provide a temporary bond between the accessory and the child. The methods include adhering a footwear or hair accessory, directly or indirectly, to a child using the novelty adhesive articles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Melanie J. Goulson, Sara K. Strege, Melissa J. Klapperich
  • Patent number: RE45393
    Abstract: The following information relates to new process of recycling garments. Although the concept of recycling garments is not new, the new process and the results of those process are both new and unexpected. Rarely is the recycling of garments as practical and as easy as the process to be presented. Additionally, these process of recycling can enable apparel manufacturers, sewing boutiques, and even home sewers, to save money and time. Benefits include sewing as little as possible while having the effect that much sewing has taken place. Another gain includes the prospect of recycling garments that failed quality control inspections due to slight imperfections. By utilizing the new process, a marketable children's apparel line can emerge, from what would normally be a loss. Consider the benefits of a new children's apparel line almost completely sewn before the recycling process begin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Cristi Turney