General Structure Patents (Class 2/243.1)
  • Patent number: 12090395
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for operating adult toys based on game related actions. The method performed by a server system includes facilitating an interaction mode between a gaming application and an adult toy management application, for operating an adult toy associated with a user of a plurality of users. The method includes receiving one or more action inputs associated with a character of the gaming application based on the user inputs in the gaming application. The one or more action inputs correspond to game related action associated with the gaming application. Further, the method includes determining a control pattern associated with the game related action performed by the character in the gaming application. The method includes transmitting the control pattern to the adult toy management application, for operating the adult toy to provide physical stimulus to the user corresponding to the game related action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2024
    Assignee: HYTTO PTE. LTD.
    Inventor: Dan Liu
  • Patent number: 12088984
    Abstract: A set of earphones enable a user to automatically activate and/or deactivate an electronic device. The earphones comprise an electronic device controller which controls the operation of an electronic device. The controller is configured to send a signal to an electronic device activation circuit which operates the electronic device based upon a coupling status of the earbuds with the one or more magnetically attractable surfaces and/or one or more magnets. The earphones are usable with an electronic device that is able to be customized to blend in with its background such as when worn with specific clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2023
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2024
    Assignee: Snik LLC
    Inventor: Rob Honeycutt
  • Patent number: 12053034
    Abstract: A sports garment includes a textile forming two or more compression zones. The compression zones include a motion-supporting compression zone configured to apply a first compressive force to a first area of a body and a body-shaping compression zone configured to apply a second compressive force to a second area of the body. The first compressive force supports a motion of the first area of the body. The second compressive force shapes the second area of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2024
    Assignee: adidas AG
    Inventor: Dora Szilagyi
  • Patent number: 12042455
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a patient transfer system including obtaining an inflatable device, where the device includes a top sheet of material and a bottom sheet of material connected to the top sheet of material defining a cavity therebetween to be inflated. The device further includes a plurality of passages in the bottom sheet extending from the cavity to an exterior of the device, where the passages are configured to permit air to pass from the cavity to the exterior of the device. The device also including a plurality of inflation-limiting members connecting the top sheet and bottom sheet, and an input configured for receiving air to inflate the device. The method further includes providing an absorbent body pad with the inflatable device, the absorbent body pad configured to be positioned between the top sheet of material and a patient positioned on the inflatable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2024
    Assignee: Sage Products, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan A. Alvarez, David P. Beck, Jay Roberts, Michael J. Rigoni, Garret W. Sweetwood, Hester C. Fletcher, Thomas Keaty, Jr., Gregory T. Davis, Paul H. Hanifl
  • Patent number: 12029259
    Abstract: A fused brassiere having an elastic outer fabric; an elastic lining bonded to the outer fabric compressed against an inner surface of the outer fabric to form first and second pocket portions; first and second cup-shaped pad portions inserted into the pocket portions, respectively; and a core member formed in a region between the pocket portions and in a circumferential portion of the pocket portions and disposed between and bonded together when the outer fabric and the lining are compressed against each other. The core member includes connecting portions which surround and connect lower and upper portions of the pocket portions to each other. The cup-shaped pad portions include first and second breast points, respectively. The connecting portions surround the pocket portions so that when viewed from the front, opposite ends of a first connecting portion are disposed higher than the first and second breast points, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2024
    Inventor: Dong Hyun Kim
  • Patent number: 11998071
    Abstract: The technology described herein relates to vented and insulating garments having an interior garment assembly comprising an interior panel and a middle panel attached at one or more seams defining chambers for retaining thermally-insulating fill material. The seams have a first plurality of openings extending through the interior and middle panels. An exterior garment assembly has a second plurality of openings positioned on the exterior garment assembly such that the second plurality of openings are offset from the first plurality of openings when the exterior garment assembly is worn with the interior garment assembly. The offsetting of the openings may achieve moisture vapor or air transfer from the inside the garment to the outside environment. The exterior garment assembly and the interior garment assembly may be discrete garment pieces or may be attached at one or more locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2024
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventor: Luke A. Pezzimenti
  • Patent number: 11992072
    Abstract: The technology described herein relates to breathable, vented, and insulating garments. More particularly, the technology described herein relates to garments with chambers to retain an insulating fill material. Openings along seams between the insulating chambers may achieve evaporative moisture or air transfer from the inside (proximal to the body of a wearer) of the garment to the outside environment. In an aspect, the garments comprise one or more insulated zones provided with one or more vented-insulation sections provided at locations on the garment configured to align with one or more areas of a wearer's body that are more sensitive to environmental conditions (e.g. temperature) and/or are prone to faster heat loss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2024
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Luke A. Pezzimenti, Kevin C. Sze, Iustinia Koshkaroff
  • Patent number: 11930865
    Abstract: A garment is made from a material woven to have multiple stretch characteristics. The garment can be jeans and the material can be a denim. Enhanced stretch denim shaping performance is achieved through engineered placement of weave-integrated hold zones and extension zones. The hold yarns and extension yarns will have distinct stretch performance attributes, but typically have the same or similar gauge, shrinkage, tensile strength, and durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: Levi Strauss & Co.
    Inventor: Paul Dillinger
  • Patent number: 11919702
    Abstract: A packaged garment includes a garment and a sealed bag. The garment has a torso portion, a sleeve portion connected to the torso portion, and a leg portion connected to the torso portion. The garment has an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface. The sealed bag contains the garment with the sleeve portion folded onto the torso portion, a portion of the sleeve portion folded at least once underneath the sleeve portion between the sleeve portion and the torso portion, and the leg portion folded onto the torso portion. The garment is manipulated so that the inner surface of the torso portion faces outward and the torso portion forms an inner space containing the sleeve portion and the leg portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: Veltek Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur L. Vellutato, Jr., Stephen S. Trombetta
  • Patent number: 11864310
    Abstract: A stretchable laminate to be fixed to a fabric includes a stretchable circuit board including a stretchable insulating layer having an elongation rate of 10% or more, a fabric base material, and an adhesive layer that bonds the stretchable circuit board and the fabric base material together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takatoshi Abe, Tomohiro Fukao, Tomoaki Sawada, Kyosuke Michigami
  • Patent number: 11812807
    Abstract: Various aspects disclosed relate to structures such as a textile, a garment, a garment component, footwear, or a footwear component. The present disclosure includes the structure having a first region having one of more first fibers. An individual first fiber includes co-extruded first and second filaments, the first filament formed of a first thermoplastic polymeric material. Due to expansion or contraction of the one or more first fibers, the first region contracts or expands on a change in relative humidity, relative to an equilibrium state of the first region prior to the change in relative humidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Eduardo Alberto Gonzalez De Los Santo, David M. Litton, Romesh Patel, Christopher J. Ranalli, Joshua Patrick Williams
  • Patent number: 11785998
    Abstract: Waterproof, breathable garments and methods of making are provided. The garments may include a laminate of a seamless ePTFE membrane and at least one textile. The garment is conformable over a range of sizes, and may be shaped to fit numerous sizes and shapes of forming molds. The ePTFE membrane may shrink to fit, or, alternatively, be stretched to fit, a mold having a desired size to form a garment. Such a conformable ePTFE membrane may allow for forming multiple sizes of garments with various sizes and shapes of molds. In embodiments where the ePTFE membrane is seamless and continuous, the garment eliminates the need for a waterproof seam tape, which is conventionally used to make garments waterproof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Bacino, Norman E. Clough, Orlando Collazo, Jean Norvell, Franz Shelley
  • Patent number: 11772542
    Abstract: In summary, the invention is directed to a strap for tensioning a vehicle side curtain, the strap comprising: a strap body having a plurality of warp yarns and a weft yarn, the weft yarn being interleaved with each of the plurality of warp yarns, wherein the warp yarns are tensioned in a substantially straight configuration; and a coating to retain the warp yarns in their straight configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: POLYWELD PTY LTD
    Inventor: Stuart Donaldson
  • Patent number: 11758991
    Abstract: A fabric strap may be configured to attach an electronic device to a user's body. Some of the strands in the fabric strap may be stretchable strands. A stretchable strand may include an elastic core covered by one or more layers of material. The elastic core may be formed from a single elastic strand or may be formed from multiple elastic strands. The first layer of material on the elastic core may be a strand that is twisted around the elastic core. The second layer of material on the elastic core may be a strand that is braided around the first layer of material and the elastic core. The first layer may have a thickness that is greater than that of the elastic core and the second layer of material. The first and second layers of material may be formed from non-stretchable or stretchable materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Siddhartha Hegde, Rimple Bhatia, Yohji Hamada, Joseph B. Walker
  • Patent number: 11690422
    Abstract: A garment assembly system including a fixture including an opening, an abutment surface formed in either the fixture or a housing disposable on the fixture, and a carrier. The carrier is disposable in the opening. The carrier is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position. In the extended position, the carrier is configured to press an open first joint of a tubular component disposed on the carrier and an open second joint of a base component disposed on the fixture together against the abutment surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: CreateMe Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas Chope, Gaston MacMillan
  • Patent number: 11575983
    Abstract: A set of earphones enable a user to automatically activate and/or deactivate an electronic device. The earphones comprise an electronic device controller which controls the operation of an electronic device. The controller is configured to send a signal to an electronic device activation circuit which operates the electronic device based upon a coupling status of the earbuds with the one or more magnetically attractable surfaces and/or one or more magnets. The earphones are usable with an electronic device that is able to be customized to blend in with its background such as when worn with specific clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: Snik, LLC
    Inventor: Rob Honeycutt
  • Patent number: 11527109
    Abstract: Methods and systems for monitoring and measuring form. A form analysis system can include a flexible garment, a sensor array including two or more sensors positioned on portions of the garment such that at least two of the two or more sensors are positioned on garment such that they align with body parts of the wearer of the garment that are separated by a joint, a harness coupled to the sensor array, the harness having stretchable wiring for communicating signals generated by the sensor array, and a hub coupled to the harness and configured to receive signals from the sensor array, the hub including a transmitter to transmit received signals to a base station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Assignee: ARCSECOND, INC.
    Inventors: Vaidyanathan P. Ramasarma, Adam Varga, Jozsef Petenyi, Bence Jozsef Borbely, Ferenc Plutzer, Daniel Banyay, Ali A. Hashemi
  • Patent number: 11278068
    Abstract: A disposable medical gown (100) includes a body covering portion (101) and optionally one or more sleeves (107,108). The body covering portion (101) defines a head insertion aperture (104) between a frontal body covering portion (103) configured to cover a frontal body portion of a wearer and a rear portion (203) configured to cover at least parts of shoulder blades of the wearer. A torso opening (201) is disposed on a side of the rear portion (203) opposite the head insertion aperture (104), and extends distally from the rear portion (203). One or more perforations (202) extend across the rear portion (203) at least partially between the torso opening (202) and the head insertion aperture (104), and facilitate easy removal of the gown (100). A user removes the gown (100) by pulling the front portion (103), thereby tearing the perforations. Elastic gatherings can be included to snug the gown about the torso or limbs of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: Medline Industries LP
    Inventor: Stephanie Pasko
  • Patent number: 11185447
    Abstract: A flexible band for a medical headgear comprises an inner surface, an opposite outer surface, and a non-stretch central portion having a friction pad disposed on the inner surface. The friction pad is formed from a grip or tacky material and is disposed at least partially between the inner surface and the outer surface of the non-stretch central portion in a solidified state of the friction pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: Neatcap, LLC
    Inventors: Fred M. Kimock, Zachary Rambo, Edward G. Thear, Gayle H. Thear, Jack Whalen
  • Patent number: 10993012
    Abstract: A set of earphones enable a user to automatically activate and/or deactivate an electronic device. The earphones comprise an electronic device controller which controls the operation of an electronic device. The controller is configured to send a signal to an electronic device activation circuit which operates the electronic device based upon a coupling status of the earbuds with the one or more magnetically attractable surfaces and/or one or more magnets. The earphones are usable with an electronic device that is able to be customized to blend in with its background such as when worn with specific clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Assignee: Snik LLC
    Inventor: Rob Honeycutt
  • Patent number: 10946168
    Abstract: A urinary catheter having a sensor or indicator affixed therein in a location that will be in the flow of urine when catheter is in use. The indicator comprises an electrolytic wicking material having an anode and a cathode thereon separated across the gap. The wicking material may be paper. The indicator further includes an output transducer positioned and connected relative to the anode and cathode such that a circuit which energizes the output transducer is created when urine flows. The indicator is configured to generate an output signal received at a remote location so that a medical practitioner can monitor proper usage of the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Cure Medical LLC
    Inventor: Timothy A. Palmer
  • Patent number: 10660379
    Abstract: This document describes techniques using, and objects embodying, an interactive fabric which is configured to sense user interactions in the form of single or multi-touch-input (e.g., gestures). The interactive fabric may be integrated into a wearable interactive garment (e.g., a jacket, shirt, or pants) that is coupled (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection) to a gesture manager. The gesture manager may be implemented at the interactive garment, or remote from the interactive garment, such as at a computing device that is wirelessly paired with the interactive garment and/or at a remote cloud based service. Generally, the gesture manager recognizes user interactions to the interactive fabric, and in response, triggers various different types of functionality, such as answering a phone call, sending a text message, creating a journal entry, and so forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: Google LLC
    Inventors: Ivan Poupyrev, Carsten C. Schwesig, Mustafa Emre Karagozler, Hakim K. Raja, David Scott Allmon, Gerard George Pallipuram, Shiho Fukuhara, Nan-Wei Gong
  • Patent number: 10463546
    Abstract: A disposable garment that prevents urine leakage, has superior appearance, and reduces reluctance of the wearer to wear the garment. The disposable garment (1) comprises a torso band (21) comprising a torso band opening (21a); and a chassis (20) disposed on a lower side of the torso band (21); wherein the chassis (20) comprises a stretchable composite sheet, the stretchable composite sheet being a multi-layer structure comprising a first air permeable sheet (203), a second air permeable sheet (205), and a liquid diffusion fiber sheet (201) and a linear elastic body (202) disposed between the first air permeable sheet (203) and the second air permeable sheet (205), and the chassis (20) has stretchability that imparts a pressing force against a wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Inventor: Kikuo Yamada
  • Patent number: 10208415
    Abstract: A method of fabricating pattern composite fabric pieces by an automatic pattern fabric article piece processing machine is described. A composite fabric sheet is fed in the processing machine onto a conveyor having a permeable belt under which is provided a vacuum chamber to retain the fabric sheet stationary while a laser cutter effects a programmed job function. The machine forms seam allowance flaps for the composite fabric pattern piece. A stitching or ultrasonic bonding machine also forms seams. In a further stage, printed matter may be applied to the allowance flaps. Glue may also be applied to the flaps and labels to some of the pattern fabric pieces. By interconnecting the seam allowance flaps of different fabric pieces, in a specific order, a fabric material article is produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Ronie Reuben
  • Patent number: 9538803
    Abstract: An article of footwear incorporates a textile upper. The upper comprises a knitted component. The knitted component may be warp knitted. The knitted component has an outer side and an inner side that can have different knit configurations. The knitted component can also incorporate portions of a single layer construction and portions of a double layer construction. The double layer construction forms pockets on portions of the knitted component. Inserts can be placed into the pockets to provide support, stability, or other desired properties to the portions of the knitted component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Bell, Bhupesh Dua, Julie Huffman, Amy Lyttle
  • Patent number: 9526293
    Abstract: An article of footwear incorporates a textile upper. The upper comprises a knitted component. The knitted component may be warp knitted. The knitted component has an outer side and an inner side that can have different knit configurations. The knitted component can also incorporate portions of a single layer construction and portions of a double layer construction. The double layer construction forms pockets on portions of the knitted component. Inserts can be placed into the pockets to provide support, stability, or other desired properties to the portions of the knitted component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Bell, Bhupesh Dua, Julie A. Huffman, Amy Lyttle
  • Patent number: 9167871
    Abstract: A slide fastener slider has a body including an upper wing, a lower wing and a coupling pillar mutually coupling the respective upper and lower wings. The slide fastener slider has been cast molded to have a configuration where the post to which a pull is attached extends over the upper wing substantially in parallel with the upper wing, and then a logo or a pattern or the like has been engraved on the upper surface of the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Keiichi Keyaki, Shinya Honda
  • Patent number: 9027167
    Abstract: The present disclosure refers to an elasticized structure and a method for making such an elasticized structure. The elasticized structure, includes a first piece and at least one second piece. The first piece is superimposed and fixed onto the second piece in at least a first fixing zone and at least a second fixing zone. The second piece is at least partially made of an elastic material and has an internal zone comprised between the first fixing zone and the second fixing zone. The elasticized structure is able to assume a tensioned position and a rest position. In the rest position, the first piece has a hump comprised between the first fixing zone and the second fixing zone and flat parts alongside said first fixing zone and said second fixing zone, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Dainese S.p.A.
    Inventor: Luigi Ronco
  • Publication number: 20150096106
    Abstract: A sleeve pouch may be provided. The sleeve pouch may be formed through the attachment of an elastic annular member to a sleeve member, wherein the space between the two surfaces forms a pouch capable of storing objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Applicant: Bootaroo LLC
    Inventor: Ann Bell
  • Publication number: 20150082510
    Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a support shirt providing sleeve reinforcement regions on sleeve portions about a centerline. The centerline exists as a curvilinear axis across the support shirt. The support shirt comprises a shirt body, and shirt body sleeves positioned near the upper shirt body. The shirt body provides support for the wearer around the chest region. Sleeve portions are attached to the shirt body at the sleeve body holes. In an embodiment, the sleeve reinforcement regions comprise a length of taut material extending from the sleeve holes to an outer portion of the sleeve about the centerline. The sleeve portions extend in an outward direction relative to a frontal plane of the shirt body and in a downward direction relative to a transverse plane of the shirt body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: John Inzer
  • Publication number: 20150033449
    Abstract: A sleeve saver apparatus that is an elastomeric attachment for use with a cuff on a button-cuffed shirt and any apparel closure using a button/buttonhole closure. More particularly, the invention is directed toward modifying a traditional button-cuffed shirt so that the cuff has some elasticity to facilitate movement of the sleeve and securing it in a desired position, and lending elasticity to other apparel using button/buttonhole closures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Atul Goel
  • Publication number: 20150033451
    Abstract: A sleeve accessory includes a sleeve and a fastening system for attaching the sleeve to a shoulder strap of another clothing item. The sleeve accessory is preferably removable and replaceable, and enables a user to adapt to changing environments or social situations by attaching or detaching the sleeve accessories as desired. Sleeve accessories may be provided in a variety of designs, colors, or patterns, to permit coordination with other clothing, or to permit mixing and matching of colors and patterns to increase the versatility of a wardrobe. In some examples, the sleeve accessory may include a decorative pattern, a logo, or other distinctive markings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Victoria D. Bradshaw
  • Publication number: 20150033450
    Abstract: A sleeve saver apparatus that is an elastomeric attachment for use with a cuff on a button-cuffed shirt and any apparel closure using a button/buttonhole closure. More particularly, the invention is directed toward modifying a traditional button-cuffed shirt so that the cuff has some elasticity to facilitate movement of the sleeve and securing it in a desired position, and lending elasticity to other apparel using button/buttonhole closures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Atul Goel
  • Publication number: 20150026862
    Abstract: A garment for regulating temperature is provided, with a body including a back panel and at least one front panel and at least partially joined along at least one common edge, an inner liner panel fastened to an inner surface of at least one of the back panel and to the at least one front panel with a first surface, and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the inner liner panel, and at least one pocket with top, bottom and side edges, being fastened to at least one of the first and second surfaces of the inner removable liner panel. The at least one pocket has at least one side opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Mark Silverberg
  • Publication number: 20150013047
    Abstract: The present invention provides a polyamide (preferably Nylon 66) yarn for weaving or knitting clothes articles which have a cooling effect on the skin of the wearer. The yarn contains an inorganic additive (preferably Titanium dioxide) in an amount of between 0.3 and 3.0 wt % and is characterized by a low crimp modulus and a flat cross section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Alon Weiser, Abed Alrahman Zuabi, Uri Afek
  • Publication number: 20150007380
    Abstract: A drawstring closure system includes a drawstring band assembly comprising a band assembly with a channel having a first open end and a second open end and a plurality of channel apertures located longitudinally along the channel. A drawstring is thread through the channel from the first open end to the second open end and has sufficient length to allow the ends of the drawstring to be drawn and tied. The channel apertures facilitate the insertion and reinsertion of the drawstring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventor: Michael T. Hodgdon
  • Patent number: 8925116
    Abstract: A decorative and/or promotional accessory to be secured to a lace such as a shoe lace includes a molded plastic body having a passage longitudinally extending therethrough from a first opening to a second opening. The passage is sized and shaped to receive the lace therethrough and to frictionally secure the body in a desired position along the lace. The accessory also includes indicia provided on an exterior surface of the accessory which can be in the form of any desired message, name, number, logo, graphic, or the like. An alternative embodiment of the accessory is disclosed which is to be secured to a cap bill. This embodiment includes a slot radially extending to the passage which is sized and shaped to receive the cap brim therein and to resiliently grip the bill and removably secure the accessory in a desired position along the bill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: Thomas R. Augustine, Douglas Frank Stitt, Randy James, Poormehr Honarmand
  • Patent number: 8914913
    Abstract: A vest is disclosed that the user can remove without removing an outer garment such as a coat. The vest utilizes hook and loop fasteners at the shoulder to allow the back and front to be separated. In order to facilitate separation, a pull cord is attached at the rear shoulder and crosses the back of the vest and passes through a guide near the opposing hip. When the pull cord is pulled the opposing shoulder that has been separated is peeled back and down across the back allowing the user to remove the vest without removing an overcoat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Gregory C. Jones
  • Publication number: 20140366246
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cap with emblems that are removable and interchangeable including a related system as well as a sleeve for fitting over a portion of a cap with emblems that are removable and interchangeable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: Jim Nichols
  • Publication number: 20140366248
    Abstract: An individual pant sleeve includes an individual pant leg having a top end and a bottom end. A first retainer mechanism may be attached to the top end. The first retainer mechanism may removably secure the individual pant leg in position. A second retainer mechanism may also be attached to the top end of the individual pant leg. The individual pant sleeve may be removably secured on a leg of a person. A second individual pant sleeve may be removably secured to a second leg of the person.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: Robyn Simon
  • Publication number: 20140357157
    Abstract: A brassiere pad (100) is disclosed which includes an outer layer (102) and an inner layer (104) fixedly engaged with each other. The outer layer and the inner layer are separate from each other at or along at least one peripheral portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: Clover Mystique Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwan Yin YIP
  • Patent number: 8887315
    Abstract: The orthopedic support garment includes a garment body made of stretchable fabric and configured to be worn in a form-fitting manner on the upper body of a wearer. The garment body has a front body portion, a rear body portion joined to the front body portion, and right and left sleeve portions attached to the front and rear body portions. Also provided is at least one tensor band laid out along one of the front and rear body portions in a manner intended to substantially correspond to at least one of the fascial lines extending along the upper body of the wearer. When the garment is worn by the wearer, the at least one tensor band may be placed in tension so as to provide proprioceptive feedback to the wearer during movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Erin Lynn Boynton
  • Publication number: 20140325743
    Abstract: The adjustable air inlet for clothing is of particular value to those wearing heavy protective clothing in warmer conditions, such as motorcyclists wearing leather protective apparel. The adjustable air inlet is installed in a passage through the clothing where it may be aligned with ambient airflow, e.g., along the forearm, upper thigh, shoulder, or on the back of a glove or on a boot. Inner and outer flanges are installed along the edges of the hole, the outer flange securing a resilient scoop over the hole. A duct is preferably provided from the trailing end of the scoop within the clothing to an area of the body that is most benefitted by the airflow. The scoop is normally open, but may be closed by a latch extending from the forward part of the outer flange. A cooling insert may be installed within the scoop for additional comfort.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2013
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventor: AUGUSTUS E. MAHANEY
  • Publication number: 20140317823
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are reversible compression garments. In some embodiments, the garments are two-layer, reversible compression garments. In some embodiments, the garments are inside-out reversible, forward/backward reversible, or a combination thereof. The reversible compression garment can be, for instance, a mid-thigh pant or a tank top. Also disclosed herein are methods of assembling and using the reversible compression garments disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Spanx, Inc.
    Inventor: Wendy Hanson
  • Publication number: 20140304896
    Abstract: Articles and methods of using and making adaptive garment portions are provided. An adaptive garment portion is one that has shifting surfaces with apertures that shift from an aligned to an offset orientation depending on environmental conditions/stimuli. For example, a first surface material and a second surface material may be coupled by a responsive material portion. The responsive material portion may physically change in response to a change in environmental conditions internal or external to the garment (e.g., thermal energy, moisture) and/or stimuli (e.g., light energy, electrical energy, magnetic fields). The physical change in the responsive material portion facilitates the planar shift of the first surface material relative to the second surface material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew D. Nordstrom, Patrick Williams
  • Publication number: 20140242876
    Abstract: A clothing end part structure (10) of the present invention has block-like second regions (11) that expand or contract at a second elongation in a length direction of an end part, and block-like first regions (12) that expand or contract at a first elongation that is lower than the second elongation, in the length direction of the end part. The second regions and the first regions are disposed alternately in the length direction of the end part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: WACOAL CORP.
    Inventor: Yuka Kitagawa
  • Publication number: 20140237711
    Abstract: A system for providing any plurality of exchangeable (typically thin-walled and lightweight) outer skins in combination with a wearable base garment, the base garment selected from as at least one of a one-piece suit, pants or a jacket and exhibiting a plurality of fasteners. A first selected outer skin is configured for positioning in overlaying fashion relative to any of the pants or jacket of the base garment. The outer skin exhibits a further plurality of fasteners which inter-engage with the first plurality of fasteners. The first skin exhibits a first decorative pattern and, upon being detached from the base garment, can be substituted by a second identically constructed skin exhibiting a second decorative pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Pirone
  • Publication number: 20140208484
    Abstract: A waistband for an article of apparel includes a base layer that is resiliently elastic and that includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and an upper edge. The waistband also includes a mounting layer that is resiliently elastic and that includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is layered over and attached to the inner surface, the outer surface, and the upper edge of the base layer. The waistband also includes flocking that is mounted on the second surface of the mounting layer. The flocking is disposed on the waistband to face a wearer of the article of apparel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Sebastian Huff, Shawn D. Wenzel
  • Patent number: 8776276
    Abstract: A cushion (1) having damping properties for use in bicycle pants includes an outer shell (2) and a core (3) therewithin surrounded by at least one layer (4) arranged between the outer shell (2) and the core (3). The core (3) and the layers (4) are formed by at least one filler material having different degrees of firmness. A valve (5) is provided in the outer shell to control the passage of air to and from the core (3) and interior cavity. The damping properties of the cushion (1) can be changed by inflating or deflating the core (3) with air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: X-Technology Swiss GmbH
    Inventor: Bodo W Lambertz
  • Publication number: 20140165269
    Abstract: A flexible computing fabric and a method of forming thereof. The flexible computing fabric includes an electronic substrate including one or more channels and including at least two ends. At least one computational element is mounted on the electronic substrate between the two ends and at least one functional element is mounted on the electronic substrate between the two ends. The channels form an interconnect between the elements. In addition, the electronic substrate is flexible and exhibits a flexural modulus in the range of 0.1 GPa to 30 GPa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventors: ALEKSANDAR ALEKSOV, RAVINDRANATH V. MAHAJAN, SAIRAM AGRAHARAM, IAN A. YOUNG, JOHN C. JOHNSON, DEBENDRA MALLIK, JOHN S. GUZEK