Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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HEAD WEAR WITH HAIR BUNDLING ASSEMBLY FOR ACCOMMODATING
VARIABLE HAIRSTYLES
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority and the benefit of 35 USC 119(e) to
United States
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/751103, filed 26 October 2018, the
entirety of
which is incorporated herein by reference.
SCOPE OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to headwear, and in particular,
to
headwear that allows a user to display his/her hair outside the headwear by
pulling the
hair through an opening in the headwear.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The inventor has recognized inherent problems and lack in the art and
observed
that there is a need for a hat or headwear piece which affords women and men a
simple
one-step process by which to pull their hair through and wear outside the hat
in variable
hairstyles, including high ponytails or messy buns. Such headwear may
advantageously
eliminate a number of problems experienced particularly by women when wearing
hats or
headwear currently described in the state of the art, including but not
limited to: (1)
overheating and sweating caused by excess hair falling over the back of the
user's neck
and/or over their forehead or face when a hat is worn in particularly hot or
sunny
climates, or whilst exercising, (2) the discomfort, frustration and
irritability that ensues
from the aforementioned overheating and sweating, and (3) the inability to
wear their hair
up high on their heads, which is oftentimes the solution to the aforementioned
overheating and sweating.
[0004] Furthermore, the applicant has appreciated that headwear according to
the present
invention may advantageously allow for users to style their hair according to
current and
variable style trends (i.e. high, in a high ponytail or bun, rather than
simply low, near the
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base of their heads), therefore allowing the user greater aesthetic freedom
and not
limiting them to restricted style options.
[0005] In accordance with the invention, it is an object of the present
embodiments to
solve at least in part one of the aforementioned problems. The inventor has
recognized
these problems and has addressed this need by developing headwear in
accordance with
the present invention.
[0006] Accordingly, the present invention resides in various non-limiting
aspects, and
which include, without restriction as follows:
[0007] In a first aspect, a headwear piece including: a cap portion for
placement over a
user's head; the cap portion including a hair bundling assembly for receiving
and/or
accommodating a thickness or bundle of the user's hair, the hair bundling
assembly
including: an opening extending longitudinally in the cap portion; a pair of
flexible
closure flaps lining longitudinal edges of the opening, the closure flaps
being configured
to cover a surface of the opening when the closure flaps overlap one another;
and a
plurality of magnets located along respective edges of the closure flaps,
wherein each of
the plurality of magnets has a polarity selected to attract an opposite magnet
located
along an opposite respective edge of the closure flaps, such as to assist in
maintaining the
overlap between the closure flaps; wherein the closure flaps are moveable
relative to one
another in a lateral direction, in order to receive therebetween the thickness
or bundle of
the user's hair, and the polarity of each of the respective magnets are
selected so as to
resiliently return the closure flaps to their overlapping condition,
substantially closing the
hair bundling assembly around the thickness or bundle of hair.
[0008] In another aspect, a headwear piece including: a flexible cap portion
for fitting to
a user's head; the flexible cap portion including a hair bundling assembly for
gathering
and/or holding a thickness or bundle of the user's hair, the hair bundling
assembly
including: an opening extending longitudinally in the cap portion in a top to
bottom
direction; a pair of flexible closure flaps lining longitudinal edges of the
opening, the
closure flaps being configured to cover an entire surface of the opening when
respective
inner edges of the closure flaps overlap one another; and a plurality of
magnets located
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along the respective edges of the closure flaps, wherein each of the plurality
of magnets
has a polarity selected to attract an opposite magnet located along an
opposite respective
edge of the closure flaps, such as to assist in maintaining the overlap
between the
respective edges of the closure flaps absent an outside force; the closure
flaps being
moveable relative to one another in a lateral direction upon application of an
outside
force, in order to pull therethrough the thickness or bundle of the user's
hair, and the
polarity of each of the respective magnets thereby being selected to
resiliently return the
edges of the closure flaps to their overlapping condition, substantially
closing the hair
bundling assembly around the thickness or bundle of hair.
[0009] In another aspect, a headwear piece including a flexible cap portion
for fitting to a
user's head; and a hair bundling assembly that includes a longitudinally
extending
opening in the cap portion bordered by a pair of selectively sealable and
flexible closure
flaps, the closure flaps having a plurality of magnets located along
respective interior
edges thereof; wherein, absent an outside force, the magnets act to keep the
closure flaps
biased in a partially overlapping configuration, substantially closing the
opening, with the
interior edges substantially overlapping one another; and wherein the closure
flaps are
moveable relative to one another in a lateral direction to an orientation
selected to enable
a thickness or bundle of the user's hair to pass through the opening and
whereby the
closure flaps are able to then return to their biased partially overlapping
configuration,
substantially closing around the thickness or bundle of hair.
[0010] In yet another aspect, a headwear piece including: a flexible cap
portion for fitting
to a user's head, the flexible cap portion defining a rear opening; and a hair
bundling
assembly disposed in the opening, the hair bundling assembly including a pair
of
longitudinally elongated flexible closure flaps, the closure flaps being
movable from a
closed position, wherein an edge portion of a first closure flap is in
overlapping
juxtaposition with an adjacent edge portion of the second other closure flap,
and a
displaced position, wherein the edge portions of the first and second closure
flaps are
spaced from one another so as to receive therethrough a thickness or bundle of
the user's
hair; the first closure flap including a first array of a plurality of
longitudinally spaced
magnets, each magnet of the first array having a magnet polarity that is
fixedly oriented
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relative to the edge portion of the first closure flap; the second closure
flap including a
second array of the plurality of magnets, each magnet of the second array
having a
magnet polarity that is fixedly oriented relative to the edge portion of the
second closure
flap and which is opposite in polarity to an associated respective magnet of
the first array;
whereby in the closed position, opposing polarities of the first and second
array of
magnets maintain the first and second closure flaps in the closed position
under a force
selected to be less than a predetermined threshold force; and on application
of the
predetermined threshold force, the first and second closure flaps being
moveable to the
displaced position.
[0011] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein a first magnet of the plurality of magnets is located along a
first
respective edge of the closure flaps, and has a bottom surface having a
selected magnet
polarity; a second magnet of the plurality of magnets is located along a
second respective
edge of the closure flaps opposite the first respective edge, and has a top
surface having a
selected magnet polarity that is opposite the selected magnet polarity of the
bottom
surface of the first magnet; and the first and second magnets are each located
at
substantially similar heights along the respective first and second edges of
the closure
flaps, such that they are substantially aligned in a longitudinal direction,
thereby enabling
an attractive force between the bottom surface of the first magnet and the top
surface of
the second magnet.
[0012] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein a third magnet of the plurality of magnets is located along
the first
respective edge of the closure flaps, beneath and spaced from the first
magnet, and has a
bottom surface having a selected magnet polarity similar to the selected
magnet polarity
of the top surface of the second magnet; a fourth magnet of the plurality of
magnets is
located along the second respective edge of the closure flaps, beneath and
spaced from
the second magnet, and has a top surface having a selected magnet polarity
that is
opposite the selected magnet polarity of the bottom surface of the third
magnet and
similar to the selected magnet polarity of the bottom surface of the first
magnet; the third
and fourth magnets are each located at substantially similar heights along the
respective
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first and second edges of the closure flaps, such that they are substantially
aligned in a
longitudinal direction, thereby enabling an attractive force between the
bottom surface of
the third magnet and the top surface of the fourth magnet; and wherein a first
repulsive
force is achieved between the similar selected magnet polarities of the bottom
surface of
the third magnet and the top surface of the second magnet, and a second
repulsive force is
achieved between the similar selected magnet polarities of the bottom surface
of the first
magnet and the top surface of the fourth magnet.
[0013] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the plurality of magnets are substantially equally spaced
from one
another along the respective edges of the closure flaps; and each magnet
located along
one respective edge is paired with an opposite magnet located along the other
respective
edge at a similar longitudinal height.
[0014] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the first magnet has an interior edge with a magnet polarity
that repels a
corresponding interior edge of the second magnet.
[0015] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the third magnet has an interior edge with a magnet polarity
that repels a
corresponding interior edge of the fourth magnet.
[0016] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the opening in the cap portion has a width between 3 and 4
cm.
[0017] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein each of the closure flaps are held taut at the longitudinal
edges of the
opening and at top and bottom edges of the opening by means of glue or
stitching.
[0018] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the plurality of magnets consists of exactly three magnets
located along
each respective edge of closure flaps.
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[0019] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein each of the plurality of magnets are held in place along the
respective
edges of the closure flaps within fabric folds or seams located along the
edges.
[0020] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein at least one of the plurality of magnets is further fixed in
place within
the folds or seams by means of glue or additional stitching.
[0021] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein at least one of the plurality of magnets is selectively
moveable within
the folds or seams along the respective edges of the closure flaps.
[0022] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein at least one of the plurality of magnets is generally
rectangular in shape.
[0023] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein at least one of the plurality of magnets is substantially
flat.
[0024] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, the headwear piece further including a size adjustment device for
adjusting a
diameter of the cap portion.
[0025] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the size adjustment device is located along an interior edge
of the cap
portion.
[0026] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the size adjustment device includes a flexible tab and an
adherence strip,
which cooperate by means of hook and loop type fastening means.
[0027] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein at least one of the plurality of magnets located along one
respective edge
of the closure flaps has a width which spans at least one half of a width of
the respective
closure flap, such as to maintain adequate magnetic surface area to assist in
closing the
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hair bundling assembly around the thickness or bundle of hair, when the size
adjustment
device operates to reduce the diameter of the cap portion.
[0028] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein at least one additional magnet fixed in place along a width
of at least one
of the closure flaps, which provides additional magnetic surface area to
assist in closing
the hair bundling assembly around the thickness or bundle of hair, when the
size
adjustment device operates to reduce the diameter of the cap portion.
[0029] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the opening in the cap portion is generally rectangular in
shape.
[0030] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein an apex of the opening, located substantially near to or at a
top of the
cap portion, is pointed or tapered in shape.
[0031] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the headwear piece is of a baseball-style and has a brim or
visor portion.
[0032] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the hair bundling assembly is located at a rear of the cap
portion.
[0033] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the plurality of magnets includes 3 to 5 magnets fixed at
equally spaced
and corresponding positions to one another along each of the interior and
overlapping
edges of the pair of closure flaps.
[0034] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the magnets are flat and generally rectangular in shape.
[0035] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein each remaining edge of the closure flaps, other than the
interior and
overlapping edges, are fixed in place along corresponding edges of the
opening.
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[0036] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein each of the closure flaps have exactly three of the
aforementioned
remaining edges that are fixed to the corresponding edges of the opening by
means of
stitching and/or glue.
[0037] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, the headwear piece further including a brim or visor.
[0038] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the opening has a generally rectangular shape and a narrow
width of
between about 3 to 5 cm, and each closure flap extending laterally
approximately midway
into the opening.
[0039] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the opening extends to within 2.5 cm of the top of the cap
portion and
includes a pointed tapered end near the top.
[0040] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the cap portion is a baseball-style cap.
[0041] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the baseball-style cap portion includes six triangularly
shaped panels
stitched or otherwise attached together, the tips of the panels meeting at the
top of the cap
portion at a knob or Squatchee, and the panels extending radially and
downwardly to
define a lower edge of the cap portion.
[0042] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the hair bundling assembly is located at the rear of the cap
portion.
[0043] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the opposing polarities of the first and second array of
magnets bias the
edge portions of the first and second closure flaps in the overlapping
juxtaposition.
[0044] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein each of the first and second closure flaps include a fabric
web.
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[0045] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the first closure flap includes a longitudinal fold along its
respective
edge portion, and each magnet of the first array is housed within the
longitudinal fold.
[0046] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the second closure flap includes a longitudinal fold along
its respective
edge portion and each magnet of the second array is housed within the
longitudinal fold.
[0047] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein each of the magnets of the first and/or second array are
fixed against
longitudinal movement within the longitudinal fold by adhesive or stitching.
[0048] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein at least one of the magnets of the first or second array is
moveable in a
longitudinal direction within the longitudinal fold.
[0049] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein a first magnet in the first array includes a top surface
having a selected
magnet polarity; and a second magnet in the second array, being an associated
respective
magnet to the first magnet, includes a bottom surface having an opposite
selected magnet
polarity to the top surface of the first magnet.
[0050] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein a third magnet, which is located beside the first magnet in
the first array,
includes a top surface having a selected magnet polarity that is substantially
identical to
the selected magnet polarity of the bottom surface of the second magnet; and a
fourth
magnet, which is located beside the second magnet in the second array and
which is an
associated respective magnet to the third magnet, includes a bottom surface
having a
selected magnet polarity that is substantially identical to the selected
magnet polarity of
the top surface of the first magnet and that is opposite the selected magnet
polarity of the
top surface of the third magnet.
[0051] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein at least one of the magnets of the first array includes an
inside edge
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oriented towards the edge portion of the first closure flap that magnetically
repels an
inside edge of an associated respective magnet of the second array that is
oriented
towards the edge portion of the second closure flap.
[0052] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the overlapping juxtaposition of the edge portions of the
first and second
closure flaps is a non-abutting overlapping juxtaposition, wherein the edge
portions
overlap in a lateral direction relative to the longitudinally elongated
closure flaps.
[0053] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the pair of longitudinally elongated flexible closure flaps
are secured
within the opening with substantially the same radial curvature as adjacent
portions of the
cap portion which define the opening.
[0054] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the opening in the cap portion is generally rectangular in
shape.
[0055] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the opening in the cap portion includes an apex having a
generally
pointed shape.
[0056] The headwear piece in accordance with any preceding or hereafter
described
aspects, wherein the cap portion further includes a brim or visor.
[0057] Furthermore, the described features and advantages of the disclosure
may be
combined in various manners, colours, textures, materials and embodiments as
one
skilled in the relevant art will recognize. The disclosure can be practiced
without one or
more features and advantages described in a particular embodiment.
[0058] Further advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from
a
consideration of the drawings and ensuing description.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0059] The advantages and features of the present disclosure will become
better
understood with reference to the following more detailed description and
claims taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are
identified with
like symbols, and in which:
Figure 1 is a side elevation view of headwear in accordance with a first
preferred
embodiment, shown in operation, with placement over a user's head with hair
pulled though a central portion of an opening of a hair bundling assembly;
Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the headwear of Figure 1 with hair
bundling
assembly in a closed configuration;
Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the headwear of Figure 1 with hair
bundling
assembly in an open configuration;
Figure 4a is an enlarged cross-sectional view of overlapping edges of closure
flaps
of the hair bundling assembly depicted in Figures 1 to 3, wherein the hair
bundling assembly is in an open configuration;
Figure 4b is an enlarged cross-sectional view of overlapping edges of closure
flaps of the hair bundling assembly depicted in Figures 1 to 3, wherein the
hair
bundling assembly is in a closed configuration;
Figure 4c is a partial, enlarged perspective view of the hair bundling
assembly
depicted in Figures 1 to 3 in an open configuration, with edges of closure
flaps of
the hair bundling assembly shown in close relation to one another;
Figure 5 is an enlarged top elevation view of the hair bundling assembly
depicted
in Figures 1 to 3 in an open configuration, with edges of closure flaps of the
hair
bundling assembly shown in close relation to one another;
Figure 6 is a rear elevation view of the headwear of Figure 1 with hair
bundling
assembly in a closed configuration;
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Figure 7 is a bottom view of the headwear of Figure 1 with hair bundling
assembly in a closed configuration;
Figure 8a is a rear elevation view of headwear in accordance with a second
preferred embodiment, having a size adjustment device shown at its largest,
with
hair bundling assembly in a closed configuration;
Figure 8b is a partial interior elevation view of the headwear of Figure 8a,
the size
adjustment device shown at its largest, with hair bundling assembly in closed
configuration;
Figure 8c is a rear elevation view of the headwear of Figure 8a, the size
adjustment device shown at its smallest, with hair bundling assembly in closed
configuration; and
Figure 8d is a partial interior elevation view of the headwear of Figure 8a,
the size
adjustment device shown at its smallest, with hair bundling assembly in closed
configuration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
First Embodiment
[0060] In accordance with the invention, the best mode as presented in terms
of a first
preferred embodiment is herein depicted within Figures 1 through 7.
Reference may now be had particularly to Figure 1, which depicts a headwear
piece 10
which is of a baseball-style worn over a user's head 12. The headwear piece 10
comprises an inverted dome-shaped cap portion 20 for placement over the user's
head 12
and an integrally attached brim or visor portion 30 projecting forward and
outwardly
from the user's face.
[0061] The visor portion 30 includes a pre-curved rigid or semi-rigid visor,
which in use
extends generally horizontally and serves the purpose of shielding the user's
eyes from
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the sun, rain or other elements. Preferably, it is angled slightly downwards
in order to
better serve its aforementioned purpose. The visor portion 30 typically
comprises a solid
rigid piece, molded into the pre-curved configuration, and which may be
further folded or
shaped by the user to better frame their face. This solid rigid piece may be
constructed of
plastic or other suitably rigid materials.
[0062] The front part of the cap portion 20, to which the visor portion 30 is
attached,
should preferably fit snuggly to the user's forehead, so as to produce a
headwear piece 10
that is form-fitting.
[0063] The inverted cap portion 20 comprises six triangularly shaped panels
22a, 22b,
22c, 22d, 22e and 22f sewn or otherwise attached together side-by-side forming
the
inverted bowl or dome shape, as also shown in Figure 2. The apex tips of the
panels 22a,
22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f meet together at a knob or Squatchee 24 on the top
of the cap
portion 20. Each of panels 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f then extend
radially and
downwardly from the Squatchee 24, ending to define a lower edge 26 of the cap
portion
20.
[0064] The cap portion 20 may also comprise an inner elastic strip 23, as
shown in Figure
7, lining the interior of the panels 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f, along
the edge 26.
This elastic strip 23, which extends around the interior of the cap portion,
forming a ring,
generally has a width of between 1 and 3 cm, and a length similar to that of
the inner
circumference of the cap portion 20. The elastic strip 23 provides further
flexibility to
the cap portion 20, thereby allowing for flexible sizing and a snug fit to
various sizes of
user heads 12. Preferably, the elastic strip is constructed of sweat absorbing
fabric, as it
generally comes into direct contact with the user's forehead and hair.
[0065] The panels 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f of the cap portion 20 are
preferably
constructed of a flexible polyester/cotton/spandex blended fabric, which
allows for a
sturdy construction and comfortable fit, while also shaping to the user's head
12. Such
flexible fabric blends are generally available in a variety of colours and
textures. The
plastic rigid piece of the visor portion 30 is also preferably covered in a
similarly textured
and coloured fabric as that of the panels 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f.
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[0066] The rear part of the cap portion 20 further comprises a hair bundling
assembly 40
through which a thickness or bundle of the user's hair 14 (including, but not
limited to, a
ponytail or bun) may be pulled through, gathered and/or held in place.
[0067] The hair bundling assembly 40 comprises an opening 42 that extends from
just
below the Squatchee 24, and downwardly toward the edge 26 of the cap portion
20. The
spacing separating the Squatchee 24 and the top of opening 42 preferably
measures
between about 0.01 and 6 cm in length, more preferably between about 0.5 and 3
cm in
length. Likewise, the spacing separating the edge 26 and the bottom of the
opening 42
preferably measures between about 0.01 and 6 cm in length, more preferably
between 0.5
and 4 cm in length.
[0068] The opening 42 is preferably situated centered over the meeting point
between the
two rear-most panels 22c and 22d. In addition, the opening 42 preferably has a
rectangular-like shape measuring between about 4 and 15 cm long and between
about 0.5
and 5 cm wide, more preferably between about 12 and 14 cm long and between
about 3
and 4 cm wide. In particular, the applicant has appreciated that a longer
rectangular
shaped opening 42 may advantageously allow for the placement of the user's
hair 14
within the hair bundling assembly 40 at various locations anywhere along the
longitudinal direction of the cap portion 20; thus allowing the user greater
aesthetic
freedom in styling his/her hair.
[0069] In addition to the foregoing, the applicant has appreciated that the
width of the
rectangular opening 42 may also contribute to a comfortable fitting of the
user's hair 14
within the assembly 40. In particular, the applicant has noted that a simple
cut or slit in
the back of the cap portion 20 (versus the wider rectangular opening 42
described herein)
may at times be too narrow to accommodate certain thicknesses of user hair 14.
In
addition, larger openings (for example, spanning more than 7cm across) may not
allow
for the requisite amount of support from the closure flaps 44i, 44ii
(described below) for
contouring a user's hair 14, when placed within the assembly 40. The applicant
has
further appreciated that a wider opening may also negatively impact the
aesthetics of the
headwear piece 10, in that, with a large portion of the back of the headwear
missing, a
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user's head and hair would be exposed therethrough. In effect, such a large
opening may
have the negative effect of transforming the entire "look" of the hat.
[0070] Near the Squatchee 24 of the cap portion 20, the opening 42 may
additionally be
given a pointed, tapered shape which extends to an uppermost apex 42A located
substantially adjacent to the Squatchee 24. As will be described later, this
pointed
tapered shape may advantageously allow for a user to pull their hair 14
through, and
place within the assembly 40 at a higher portion of the hair bundling assembly
40,
substantially at the apex 42A.
[0071] In addition to the foregoing, the applicant has appreciated that the
pointed tapered
shape of the opening 42 may provide some aesthetic advantages, as it provides
means by
which the top of the opening 42 may be aligned in parallel with the edges of
the two back
panels 22c and 22d, up near the Squatchee 24. In particular, this may provide
a sleek and
smoother look to the hair bundling assembly 40, and to the headwear piece 10
in general.
[0072] The hair bundling assembly 40 further comprises a pair of deformable
and
selectively sealable closure flaps or members 44i, 44ii lining respective
edges of the
aforementioned opening 42. The closure flaps 44i, 44ii are preferably of
similar shape
and dimensions to one another, and positioned in mirror relation to each other
with a
slight overlap at their meeting point; so as to substantially cover the entire
surface area of
the opening 42.
[0073] The closure flaps 44i, 44ii are preferably constructed of a material
similar to that
of the rest of the cap portion 20, that is, a flexible
polyester/cotton/spandex blended fabric
that may be of the same or a different colour/texture to the rest of the cap
portion 20.
Such fabrics generally possess a certain degree of flexibility which allows
the closure
flaps 44i, 44ii to conform nicely around any hair that may be pulled through
them and left
within the hair bundling assembly 40, which in turn provides a uniform
appearance to the
headwear 10 when viewed by others.
[0074] In their relaxed state, each of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii preferably
have lengths
comparable to that of the opening 42 and widths of between about 0.5 and 4 cm,
more
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preferably between about 2 and 3 cm. The overlap between the two closure flaps
44i,
44ii is preferably between about 0.3 and 1 cm, more preferably between about
0.4 and 0.5
cm.
[0075] Reference is now made to Figure 2, which depicts the two closure flaps
44i, 44ii
sewn or otherwise attached to the cap portion 20 in the aforementioned
overlapping and
closed configuration. Each of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii are sewn or fixed at
each of their
respective outer edges to edges 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d, and 45e of the opening 42
in the cap
portion 20. In this way, the closure flaps 44i, 44ii are secured to the cap
portion in a
sturdy yet smoothed fashion, which keeps the closure flaps 44i, 44ii taut and
assists in
maintaining their overlapping condition, absent outside forces. This fixing of
the edges
of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii to the edges 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d, and 45e of the
opening 42
thus helps maintain the hair bundling assembly 40 in a closed condition when
at rest (i.e.
when no outside force is applied).
[0076] While dimensioned and positioned to maintain their biased closed and
overlapping condition, the closure flaps 44i, 44ii are also capable of a
degree of stretch,
in order to allow for an elliptical opening between them by a user. The
closure flaps 44i,
44ii are thus deformable laterally from their resting or relaxed position (in
their closed
and overlapping state) to anywhere up to a fully displaced and open position,
which may
extend up to about 10 to 15 cm across at its widest point, depending upon the
dimensions/material of the hat and of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii themselves.
In particular,
the applicant notes that the degree of lateral deformation is not limited by
the resting
dimensions of the opening 42, but rather may extend further, due to the
flexible and/or
stretch quality of the material(s) used in the construction of each of the
closure flaps 44i,
44ii and the panels 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f.
[0077] The maximum lateral width to which the closure flaps 44i, 44ii may be
stretched
apart from one another will thus depend upon the dimensions of the opening 42
as well as
the dimensions and material from which the flexible closure flaps 44i, 44ii
and the panels
22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f are constructed. Preferably, this maximum
width is
between about 6 cm and 15 cm, most preferably about 7 to 10 cm. The widest
portion of
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the open and elliptically-shaped opening 42 may therefore be stretched
anywhere from a
fully closed position to an open position having a maximum lateral stretch up
to about 15
cm, preferably between about 6 to 10 cm (depending upon the length of the
opening 42),
and in order to allow for passage of the user's thickness or bundle of hair
14.
[0078] Reference may now be had to Figure 3, which depicts the hair bundling
assembly
40 in an open configuration with the closure flaps 44i, 44ii being pulled from
one another
through means of an outside force. Figure 3 also more clearly depicts a number
of
substantially equally spaced raised portions along respective interior edges
46a, 46b of
the closure flaps 44i, 44ii. These raised portions each represent a series of
pockets 49, 50
in which a series of magnets 47, 48 are held.
[0079] In this preferred embodiment, each of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii have
been fitted
with three magnets. In particular, closure flap 44i has secured to its edge
46a the three
magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii; and closure flap 44ii has secured to its edge 46b
the three
magnets 48i, 48ii, 48iii.
[0080] Each of the magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii, 48iii have been
sewn into
respective longitudinally extending seams of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii,
along edges 46a,
46b. In particular, the magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii, 48iii have
been placed within
folds or seams 43a, 43b of the closure flaps' fabric edge, and tightly
contoured with
stitching; such as to hold them securely in place within the seam and along
the edges 46a,
46b by way of the respective pockets 49i, 49ii, 49iii and 50i, 50ii, 50iii.
[0081] The applicant further notes that the width of the seams which hold each
of the
magnets by way of pockets 49i, 49ii, 49iii and 50i, 50ii, 50iii respectively
along edges
46a, 46b is substantially equal to the overlap between the closure flaps 44i,
44ii. In this
way, the seams at edges 46a, 46b are preferably dimensioned such that the
pockets 49i,
49ii, 49iii directly overlap pockets 50i, 50ii, 50iii, thus allowing for
stacking of the
magnets contained therein when the closure flaps 44i, 44ii are in their
resting and
overlapping condition.
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[0082] In this embodiment, each of magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii,
48iii are
similarly shaped and have similar dimensions. Preferably, the magnets are
rectangular in
shape and measure between about 0.5 and 3 cm long and between about 0.2 and 1
cm
wide; more preferably between about 0.8 and 1.7 cm long and between about 0.3
and 0.5
cm wide. Each of pockets 49i, 49ii, 49iii and 50i, 50ii, 50iii, which
respectively house
magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii, 48iii, have similar dimensions, only
very slightly
larger, so as to accommodate the respective magnet therein.
[0083] The magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii, 48iii used in the invention
may, for
example, be rare earth or block bar magnets.
[0084] The topmost magnets 47i and 48i are preferably located at a distance of
between
about 1 to 2.5 cm from the top part of the hair bundling assembly 40.
Similarly, the
lowest magnets 47iii and 48iii are preferably located at a distance of between
about 0.01
to 2.5 cm from the bottom part of the hair bundling assembly 40.
[0085] Each of the magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii, 48iii are further
grouped into
pairs of magnets 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and 48iii which are
positioned at
corresponding locations along the edges 46a, 46b of the closure flaps 44i,
44ii, such that
they overlap or stack atop one another when the closure flaps 44i, 44ii are in
their resting
and overlapping state. The vertical spacing separating each of the pairs of
magnets 47i
and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and 48iii from one another preferably
measures between
about 1 to 3.5 cm.
[0086] The polarity of each of the magnets are selected such that each of the
pairs of
magnets 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47i1i and 48iii are specifically
attracted to one
another. The selection of magnet polarity may be better understood with
reference to
Figures 4a and 4b.
[0087] Figures 4a and 4b depict a cross-sectional view of the overlapping
edges 46a, 46b
of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii when the hair bundling assembly 40 is in an
open
configuration (see Figure 4a), and when the hair bundling assembly 40 is in a
closed
configuration (see Figure 4b). Shown in each of Figures 4a and 4b are the
pairs of
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magnets 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and 48iii that have been sewn
into the seam
of their respective closure flaps' edges 46a, 46b, respectively.
[0088] As may be seen in Figure 4a, a bottom surface 51i of magnet 47i has
been
selected to have a north pole polarity, which interacts with a top surface 52i
of magnet
48i, which has a south pole polarity, such that the two magnets 47i, 48i
achieve an
attracting or magnetic pull force between them. This magnetic pull force is
depicted in
Figure 4a through the use of opposite facing arrows. Similarly to magnets 47i
and 48i, a
bottom surface 51ii of magnet 47ii is attracted to a top surface 52ii of
magnet 48ii; and a
bottom surface 51iii of magnet 47iii is attracted to a top surface 52iii of
magnet 48iii.
[0089] With the magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii, 48iii positioned as
they are along
the edges 46a, 46b of closure flaps 44i, 44ii, a stronger outside force is
needed to pull
apart the closure flaps 44i, 44ii, such as to counteract the magnetic pull
achieved between
each of the pairs of magnets 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and 48iii.
In this way,
each pair of magnets further contributes to keeping the closure flaps 44i,
44ii in their
resting and slightly overlapping state.
[0090] Once the closure flaps 44i, 44ii have been separated, the attractive
force acting
between each of the pairs of magnets 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and
48iii further
contribute to causing the closure flaps 44i, 44ii to return to their original
resting and
slightly overlapping state. Where a user's hair 14 has been pulled through and
left within
the hair bundling assembly 40, the attractive force achieved by the pairs of
magnets
surrounding the hair 14 may also help the closure flaps 44i, 44ii to tightly
wrap around
any edges of that thickness or bundle of hair 14, as the hair bundling
assembly 40
"closes" around it. In this respect, the applicant further notes that the
relatively narrow
rectangular-like shape of the opening 42, in certain circumstances, may also
contribute to
this tight wrapping of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii around the user's hair 14.
[0091] The time and/or effort required to return the closure flaps 44i, 44ii
to their resting
overlapping state in "closed" configuration (after a user's hair 14 has been
pulled through
and left in the hair bundling assembly 40) may vary, depending upon the
specific material
from which the closure flaps 44i, 44ii are constructed and upon the pull force
achieved
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between each of the magnet pairs 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and
48iii. Where
the closure flaps 44i, 44ii are constructed of a more malleable or flexible
blended material
(e.g. high spandex content), the amount of force required of the magnet pairs
to "close"
the hair bundling assembly 40 around a user's hair 14 may be lessened.
Conversely,
where a more sturdy or inflexible material is used in the construction of the
closure flaps
44i, 44ii, the magnets may need to exert a more powerful attractive force
between them in
order to "close" the hair bundling assembly 40 around the hair 14.
[0092] As was described above, each of the magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i,
48ii, 48iii
are preferably selected to have a rectangular shape. The large surface area
afforded by a
rectangle (versus a circle or square, for example) may thus afford a larger
surface area
over which each of the magnet pairs 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and
48iii may be
attracted to one another. This may, in turn, result in lower overall
construction costs for
the headwear 10. In particular, the applicant has appreciated that a lower
strength magnet
with a larger surface area may achieve the same level of performance as a
higher strength
magnet with a smaller surface area.
[0093] While higher surface area magnets are preferred, it is also preferable
that the size
of the magnets does not unduly weigh down the closure flaps 44i, 44ii or
hinder their
flexibility with long and rigid magnet pieces.
[0094] In practice, the applicant has appreciated that it is preferable that
each of the
magnets' strengths and sizes, in conjunction with the selection of material
for the closure
flaps 44i, 44ii, be done such as to enable a quick and easy return of the
closure flaps 44i,
44ii to their resting and overlapping state, after a thickness of hair 14 has
been inserted
through the hair bundling assembly 40. However, it is also preferable to avoid
so strong
a pull force between the edges 46a, 46b of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii that
the user has
trouble pulling them apart, in order to insert the hair 14 within the assembly
40 in the first
place. While the hair bundling assembly 40 preferably should securely "close"
around
the hair 14 with minimal interference, it preferably should also not unduly
resist the
initial opening of the assembly 40 in order to pull the hair 14 through. As
such, the
attractive force achieved between the two closure flaps 44i, 44ii preferably
should be
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sufficient to pull the closure flaps 44i, 44ii back into their resting and
overlapping state,
while simultaneously wrapping around a user's hair 14. However, the attractive
force
achieved should also preferably be weak enough to allow for the relatively
easy
separation of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii by a user (i.e. with minimal
effort).
[0095] In this preferred embodiment, each of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii are
constructed of
a thin 100% polyester blended fabric, and the magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and
48i, 48ii, 48iii
have a magnet size of 15 x 4 x 2 mm, and magnet strength of between about 25
to 50
Gauss, preferably between about 30 to 45 Gauss, most preferably about 35
Gauss. The
invention, however, is not so limited; and the applicant has appreciated that
a variety of
combinations of magnet strengths/sizes together with closure flap materials
may be used
to achieve similar ends.
[0096] In order to prevent the mistaken pairing or pulling between two magnets
not
belonging to the same pair (and thus, not located at corresponding locations
along the
edges 46a, 46b), the selection of magnet polarities for each of the pairs of
magnets 47i
and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and 48iii may also be made in alternating
fashion. Thus,
where the bottom surface 51i of magnet 47i is given a north pole polarity, the
bottom
surface 51ii of magnet 47ii (which is located below magnet 47i along edge 46a)
may be
selected as having a south pole polarity. In this way, the bottom surface 51i
of magnet
47i would not be mistakenly pulled towards the top surface 52ii of magnet 48ii
(also
having a north pole magnet polarity) which, rather, would be meant for pairing
with
magnet 47ii. The two north pole polarities of bottom surface 51i and top
surface 52ii in
such a case would, in fact, be repulsed from another, thereby preventing the
mistaken
pairing or pulling between magnets 47i and 48ii. This selective choosing of
magnet
polarities may also be applied across the other magnets of the hair bundling
assembly 40.
Thus, for example, in this preferred embodiment, the bottom surface 51iii of
magnet 47iii
may again be selected to have a north pole polarity, so as to be repulsed by
the north pole
polarity of top surface 52ii of magnet 48ii; and to be attracted to the south
pole polarity of
top surface 52iii of magnet 48iii.
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[0097] In addition to the foregoing, each of the pairs of magnets 47i and 48i,
47ii and
48ii, and 47iii and 48iii may also be selected to have interior edge surfaces
that repulse
one another. This is best appreciated with reference to Figures 4c and 5,
which
respectively provide enlarged perspective and frontal views of edges 46a, 46b
of the
closure flaps 44i, 44ii of the hair bundling assembly, wherein the magnets
hidden within
folds/seams 43a, 43b at the edges 46a, 46b are shown in broken lines. In
Figures 4c and
5, magnet 47i, for example, is shown as having an interior edge surface 53i
which is
repulsed by interior edge surface 54i of magnet 48i. This repulsing force is
illustrated in
Figures 4c and 5 through use of double-sided arrows.
[0098] The repulsive force achieved between interior edge surfaces 53i and 54i
may also
also be due to the similar magnet polarities between these two surfaces. That
is, where
magnet 47i is selected with a bottom surface 51i having a north pole polarity,
it likely
also has a top surface with a south pole polarity (opposite to its north pole
bottom
surface). The interior edge surface 53i would thus be expected to exhibit a
north polarity
near its bottom and a south polarity near its top, which would be expected to
repel the
similar polarity of interior edge surface 54i. As was described above, in this
embodiment, magnet 48i may be selected to have a top surface 52i having a
south pole
polarity. Thus, the interior edge surface 54i would be expected to also
exhibit a south
polarity near its top, and a north polarity near its bottom.
[0099] This repelling between interior edge surfaces 53i and 54i may
advantageously
prevent the two surfaces from being improperly attracted to one another, and
thus may
also promote the desired attraction between the bottom surface 51i of magnet
47i and top
surface 52i of magnet 48i. A similar repulsion force between interior edge
surfaces 53ii
and 54ii of magnets 47ii, 48i1, and between interior edge surfaces 53 iii and
54i1i of
magnets 47iii, 48iii, may also be chosen in this preferred embodiment of the
invention.
[00100] The above-noted split and repulsive polarities of interior edges
53i, 54i,
53ii, 54ii, and 53iii, 54iii may also advantageously prevent the edges 46a,
46b of the
closure flaps 44i, 44ii from closing together improperly in abutting
juxtaposition; rather
than in their resting and slightly overlapping state. The applicant has
appreciated that
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hair bundling assemblies which consist of two closure flaps that come together
in such an
abutting configuration are sometimes faced with the disadvantage of improper
closure
around a user's hair 14. In particular, the applicant has noted that when the
closure flaps
44i, 44ii are arranged without a slight overlap along their edges 46a, 46b,
the closing of
the hair bundling assembly 40 is imperfect, in that gaps may be seen in the
vertical
spacing separating each of the magnet pairs 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and
47iii and 48iii.
A user's head/hair may thus be seen through these gaps, which results in a
less polished,
less aesthetic look for the hair bundling assembly 40. A further disadvantage
may also be
encountered in such abutting juxtaposed configurations of the closure flaps,
when the
user's hair may be seen poking through the exposed gaps between the paired
magnets.
[00101] Reference is again made to Figure 3, wherein (as was described
above) the
magnet pairs 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and 48iii are depicted as
being
somewhat equally spaced apart along the longitudinal length of the opening 42.
Each of
the pairs of magnets may thus, in practice, serve to subdivide the open
opening 42 into a
number of different sections or segmented openings, wherein the user's hair 14
may be
pulled through and/or left in place.
[00102] Each of the aforementioned segmented openings/sections defined by
the
positioning of the various pairs of magnets 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and
47iii and 48iii
may be used to accommodate the user's hair 14. Figure 1, for example, depicts
the hair
14 having been pulled through and left in place at a centered segmented
opening/section
of the hair bundling assembly 40.
[00103] Should the user, instead, wish to pull and place their hair 14 in
a highest
portion of the hair bundling assembly 40, this may be done simply in an easy
step by
pulling the hair 14 up through the opening 42 and allowing each pairs of
magnets 47ii,
48ii and 47iii, 48iii to come together and "close" under the hair 14.
Depending upon the
thickness of the user's hair 14 and the positioning of the topmost magnets 47i
and 48i,
this pair of magnets 47i, 48i may also optionally be "closed" beneath the
positioned hair
14. The pointed/tapered shape of the uppermost portion of the hair bundling
assembly 40
(defined by edges 45a and 45e of the opening 42 and near the apex 42A) may be
of
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particular importance in such a case, as it may allow the user to pull his/her
hair 14 to a
slightly higher position in the hair bundling assembly 40, thus allowing for
more room in
"closing" the magnets 47i, 48i beneath the hair 14.
[00104] Furthermore, should the user wish to have their hair 14
accommodated at a
position more central in the hair bundling assembly 40, this may also be
accomplished in
a simple, one-step manner. In particular, the user may pull his/her hair 14
through a more
central portion of the opening 42, and allow each of the pairs of magnets 47i,
48i and
47iii, 48iii to come together and "close" above and below the hair 14,
respectively.
Alternatively, and again depending upon the thickness of the user's hair 14,
the user may
opt to place their hair 14 within the space that separates each of the pairs
of magnets 47i,
48i and 47i1, 48ii, or instead between magnet pairs 47ii, 48ii and 47iii,
48iii.
[00105] If the user wishes to place their hair 14 at a lowest portion of
the hair
bundling assembly 40, this may similarly be done by pulling the hair 14
through a bottom
portion of the opening 42, and allowing the pairs of magnets 47ii, 48ii and
47i, 48i to
come together and "close" above it. Optionally, depending upon the user's
thickness of
hair 14, the pair of magnets 47iii, 48iii may also be "closed" above the hair
14 when
placed in a lowest portion of the hair bundling assembly 40.
[00106] As was described above, the lengths of each of the possible
segmented
openings/sections for accommodating the user's hair 14 along the opening 42,
may
depend upon the positioning of the respective magnet pairs 47i and 48i, 47ii
and 48ii, and
47iii and 48iii, along edges 46a, 46b of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii.
Assuming, for
example, that the pairs of magnets 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii and
48iii are
placed respectively at positions along the edges 46a, 46b at about 2 cm, 7 cm
and 11 cm
from the topmost portion of the hair bundling assembly 40 and in a downwards
longitudinal direction; then the topmost segmented opening/section located at
the highest
portion of the hair bundling assembly 40, above magnets 47i, 48i, may be about
1 to 2 cm
long. Similarly, the middle-most segmented opening/section, between magnet
pairs 47i,
48i and 47iii, 48iii, may measure between about 6.5 and 9 cm. Further middle
segmented
openings/sections, located between magnet pairs 47i, 48i and 471i, 48ii, or
between
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magnets pairs 47ii, 48ii and 47iii, 48i1i, may be about 2.5 to 4.5 cm long.
Finally, the
lowest segmented opening/section in this case, located beneath magnet pair
47iii, 48iii
may measure between about 1 and 2 cm in length.
[00107] The transversal maximum widths of each of the segmented
openings/sections may also depend upon the placement of the magnets 47i and
48i, 47i1
and 48ii, and 47iii and 48iii, as well as upon the sizing of the opening 42
and the
flexibility of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii. However, due to its location at
the center of
opening 42, the middle-most segmented opening/section, defined as lying
between
magnets 47i, 48i and 47iii, 48iii, may have a maximum stretch width up to
about 40%
larger than the other two middle segmented openings/sections, and up to about
170%
larger than the highest and lowest segmented openings/sections. This is due to
the
elliptical shape which is formed upon stretching the closure flaps 44i, 44ii
of the hair
bundling assembly 40. Assuming an opening 42 with a maximum lateral stretch
width of
about 7 cm, one might expect a middle positioned segmented opening (between
"closed"
magnets 47i, 48i and 47ii, 48ii) with a width of about 3.5 to 4 cm; further
middle
positioned openings (between "closed" magnet pairs 47i, 48i and 47ii, 48ii,
and 47ii, 48ii
and 47iii, 48iii) with widths of about 2 to 3 cm; and highest and lowest
positioned
segmented openings (respectively, above "closed" magnet pair 47i, 48i, or
below
"closed" magnet pair 47iii, 48iii) measuring between about 0.5 and 1.5 cm
wide.
[00108] In a
most preferred embodiment of the invention, the applicant has further
appreciated that the hair bundling assembly 40 may, in fact, accommodate a
user's hair
14 anywhere along the length of the assembly. Thus, a user would be able to
simply pull
their hair 14 through the assembly 40 anywhere, allowing it to "close" around
the hair 14.
Once within the assembly, the user may then slide their hair 14 anywhere along
the
length of the assembly to their chosen height/location. In this preferred
embodiment, the
closure flaps 44i, 44ii and magnet pairs 47i and 48i, 47ii and 48ii, and 47iii
and 48iii
would simply deform and/or separate, and then come back together again, as
needed in
order to allow for the hair 14 to slide into the user's chosen hair position
within the
assembly 40. The applicant has further appreciated that this preferred
embodiment of the
invention may advantageously allow a user to pass a thicker bundle of hair 14
through the
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assembly, for example, a bundle of hair having a thickness as large as 7 to 15
cm across,
or up to the largest lateral stretch width of the entire hair bundling
assembly 40.
[00109] By way of general comment, the applicant further notes that use of
magnets in
the invention may in-and-of-itself be advantageous to the user. In particular,
the
applicant has explored the idea of using, for example, elastic bands, zippers,
VelcroTM
and/or other means of "closing" the hair bundling assembly 40 around a user's
hair 14,
and found a number of shortcomings with these options. For example, when using
zippers, a user is at risk of hair breakage when closing the hair bundling
assembly, should
any of his/her hair become caught within a zipper closure. Similarly, a user's
hair is at
risk of becoming tangled within the assembly when VelcroTM closures are used.
The
applicant has noted further similar hair breakage risks with other fastening
elements, such
as clips or buttons. Elastics closures, on the other hand, have a tendency to
wear out with
time, and thus eventually result in imperfect closure around the user's hair.
In addition to
the foregoing, the applicant has similarly noted that a number of these
alternative
"closure" means for the assembly often do not provide sufficient stretch or
"give" in
order to allow thicker bundles of user hair to pass therethrough, and may also
appear less
aesthetically pleasing or "messy" to outside observers. In this regard, the
applicant has
noted that single thick elastics with slits cut therein, as well as thinner
elastics arranged in
a woven pattern, are particularly problematic in terms of accommodating larger
thicknesses of user hair, and in aesthetic design. In employing magnets,
however,
embodiments of the present invention may advantageously avoid such
disadvantages
and/or risks.
Second Embodiment
[00110] Reference is now made to Figures 8a to 8d, which depict a second
alternative
embodiment of the applicant's invention, in which like-elements are
represented by
identical reference numerals as described above. Accompanying description(s)
of such
like-elements are thereby simplified or omitted here.
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[00111] Figures 8a to 8d illustrate an embodiment of the headwear piece 10
where, in
addition to the inner elastic strip 23, the cap portion 20 also includes a
size adjustment
device 60 for further adjusting the size of the headwear 10 to a user's head.
[00112] The size adjustment device 60 preferably consists of an elastic tab 62
that is
operable to adhere or stick to an adherence strip 64 located beneath the
elastic tab 62
along an interior edge of the cap portion 20. In a preferred embodiment, both
the elastic
tab 62 and adherence strip 64 include VelcroTM or another hook and loop type
fastening
tool, which allows a user to selectively adjust the sizing of the cap portion
20. The
applicant has appreciated that other fastening mechanisms, including
selectively sealable
glue or tape, may also be used instead of a hook and loop type fastening
means.
[00113] User's having larger heads may elect not to make use of the additional
size
adjustment device 60, and instead rely solely upon the inner elastic strip 23
for achieving
a snug fit of the cap portion 20 to their heads. In this case, the size
adjustment device 60
may be left at its largest, with the elastic tab 62 adhered or stuck to a left-
most portion of
the adherence strip 64, leaving a right-most portion of the adherence strip 64
visible on
the interior of the cap (See Figure 8b).
[00114] Where a user with a smaller head wishes to fine-tune the sizing of the
cap
portion 20, the elastic tab 62 may be removed from the adherence strip 64,
tightened to
achieve a smaller setting of the size adjustment device 60, and once again,
adhered or
stuck to the adherence strip 64. When the size adjustment device 60 is at its
smallest
setting, the entire surface of the adherence strip 64 is used, and thus its
entire surface is
hidden beneath the elastic tab 62 (see Figure 8d).
[00115] In essence, the size adjustment device 60 offers a user a means by
which to
finely adjust the diameter of the lower portion of the cap 20, thereby
offering a more
customizable size to the headwear 10.
[00116] While Figures 8a to 8d depict the size adjustment device 60 as being
situated at a
rear, lower and interior portion of the cap 20, the invention is not so
limited. The
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applicant has appreciated that the size adjustment device 60 may be added to
the cap in
alternative locations, such as for example, along an exterior of the cap
portion 20.
[00117] In situations where the size adjustment device 60 is set at its
largest setting,
interior edges 46a, 46b of the selectively sealable closure flaps 44i, 44ii
overlap one
another much as was described above in the context of the applicant's first
preferred
embodiment (see Figures 8a and 8b).
[00118] By contrast, in situations where the size adjustment device 60 is set
at a smaller
setting, the edges of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii may overlap one another at a
slight angle,
as shown for example in Figures 8c and 8d. In order to accommodate a variable
angled
overlap between the closure flaps 44i, 44ii, the applicant has appreciated
that magnets
47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii, 48iii of the hair bundling assembly 40 may be
selected to
have larger surface areas, covering a larger width of the closure flaps 44i,
44ii. In the
alternative, additional magnets may be fixed at intervals along the width of
the closure
flaps, in order to accommodate the angled overlap between the closure flaps
44i, 44ii and
secure a closing of the hair bundling assembly 40, even where the sizing of
the cap has
been reduced via the size adjustment device 60.
[00119] In addition to the foregoing, the applicant has appreciated that,
where a
size adjustment device 60 is used, the hair bundling assembly 40 may be made
to extend
all the way to the lower edge 26 of the cap portion 20 (see Figures 8a and
8c), so as to
assist in maintaining efficient functionality of the hair bundling assembly
40, even when
the diameter of the cap portion 20 is changed.
[00120] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments have been
presented
for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be
exhaustive or to
limit the invention and method of use to the precise forms disclosed. Various
modifications and variations can be appreciated by one skilled in the art in
light of the
above teachings. The embodiments have been chosen and described in order to
best
explain the principles and practical application in accordance with the
invention in order
to enable those skilled in the art to best utilize the various embodiments
with expected
modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is
understood that
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various omissions or substitutions of equivalence are contemplated as
circumstance may
suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or
implantation
without departing from the scope of the invention.
[00121] Although Figures 1 through 3, 6 and 7 depict a single hair
bundling
assembly 40 positioned at the rear of the cap portion 20, the invention is not
so limited. It
should be appreciated that the cap portion 20 could alternatively comprise a
hair bundling
assembly 40 in other locations, for example, at the top of the cap portion 20,
or on either
side. The cap portion 20 may also, for example, feature more than one hair
bundling
assembly 40, such as two separate hair bundling assemblies 40 on either side
of the cap
portion 20 for accommodating a user's "pigtails".
[00122] Although Figures 1 through 3, 6 and 7 depict a baseball-style
headwear
piece 10 which includes a pre-curved visor portion 30 and a cap portion 20
comprised of
six triangularly shaped panels 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f and a knob or
Squatchee
24, the invention is not so limited. It should be appreciated that the visor
portion 30
could comprise a flat-shaped visor, rather than curved. The cap portion 20
could
alternatively comprise more or less than six triangularly shaped panels, with
or without
one or more Squatchees. Further, the headwear piece 10 could be of a different
type of
headwear altogether. The hair bundling assembly 40, for example, could be used
in
conjunction with a winter tuque, a bonnet, a beret, a bowler's or boater's
hat, a sun hat,
other types of sports headwear or helmets (such as bicycle, motorcycle, scuba,
swim
wear, etc.) or a hood.
[00123] Although the foregoing description describes a cap portion 20
having an
inner elastic strip 23 lining the interior of the panels 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d,
22e and 22f
along the edge 26, and which enables flexible sizing and a snug fit on the
user's head 12,
the invention is not so limited. It should be appreciated that the cap portion
20 could
alternatively (or additionally) include a clip-type arrangement, a VelcroTm-
style closure
or another suitable fastening assembly for tightening or fitting/adjusting the
cap portion
20 to the user's head 12. Furthermore, the inner elastic strip 23 need not
necessarily be
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constructed of sweat-absorbing fabric. Any suitable elastic fabric or material
may be
used which facilitates gripping of the cap portion 20 around the user's head
12.
[00124] Although the foregoing description describes the triangularly
shaped
panels 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f as preferably being constructed of a
flexible
polyester/cotton/spandex blended fabric, the invention is not so limited. It
should be
appreciated that the panels could alternatively be constructed of other
suitably
comfortable and/or flexible materials, as for example, leather, or other
suitable cotton,
polyester or spandex blends. It should be appreciated that any panel could
also be
double-lined with alternative fabrics or materials on either side, as for
example,
Sweatwick fabric or other suitably sweat-absorbing fabrics.
[00125] Although the foregoing description depicts the hair bundling
assembly 40
as including two closure flaps 44i, 44ii with inner overlapping edges 46a, 46b
each
having exactly three magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and 48i, 48ii, 48iii sewn
therein; the
invention is not so limited. The applicant has appreciated that more or less
magnets may
be used, as required by the particular circumstances, and in order to achieve
the same
ends. Furthermore, these magnets need not necessarily be fixed to the edges
46a, 46b of
the closure flaps 44i, 44ii by placing within fabric folds and tightly
contouring with
stitching. Rather, other suitable methods for attaching the magnets to the
closure flaps
may be used, such as, for example, glue or other bonding materials. These
magnets also
need not be obscured from view within folds of fabric, but rather, could be
glued or
attached to the surfaces of the closure flaps 40 directly. By the same
respect, the magnets
need not necessarily be fixed in place within individual pockets 49, 49i,
49ii, 49iii and
50, 50i, 50ii, 50iii formed from tightly contouring stitching. Rather, the
applicant has
appreciated that the magnets may alternatively be housed within longitudinally
extending
seams of the closure flaps 44i, 44ii, but freely moveable within those seams
in the
longitudinal direction, in order to allow a user the freedom of choosing an
optimal
location of the magnets along the edges of the closure flaps, according to
their hair style
or type.
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[00126] Although Figures 1 through 7 depict the magnets 47i, 47ii, 47iii and
48i, 48i1,
48iii of the hair bundling assembly 40 as having a rectangular shape, the
invention is not
so limited. While a larger surface area of the magnets is preferred in order
to promote
attractive force, the applicant has appreciated that square or circular shaped
magnets may
in certain circumstances be used to achieve the requisite attractive force,
depending upon
the strength of the magnets used, as well as upon the material of construction
chosen for
the closure flaps 44i, 44ii and their respective dimensions. The applicant has
appreciated
that other irregularly shaped magnets may also be used, for example, oval or
triangular.
In certain applications, the applicant has envisioned that the magnets may
serve a
decorative purpose. In such situations, the magnets could also be selected to
have more
decorative shapes such as, for example, star or heart shaped.
[00127] Although the description states that the closure flaps 44i, 44ii
are to be
positioned in mirror relation to each other with a slight overlap at their
meeting point, the
invention is not so limited. Rather, the applicant has appreciated that the
closure flaps
44i, 44ii may also function so as to substantially cover the entire surface
area of the
opening 42 where their overlap is more than the preferred 0.3 to 1 cm
described. The
applicant has appreciated that any amount of overlap between the closure flaps
44i, 44ii,
up to and including the full width of the closure flaps, may also be suitable
in particular
embodiments of the invention.
DESCRIPTIVE KEY
Headwear Piece
12 User's Head
14 Thickness or Bundle of Hair
Cap Portion
22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e and 22f Triangularly Shaped Panels
23 Inner Elastic Strip
24 Knob or Squatchee
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26 Lower Edge of Cap Portion
30 Brim or Visor Portion
40 Hair Bundling Assembly
42 Opening
42A Apex of the Opening
43a, 43b Folds or Seams along Interior Edges 46a, 46b of Closure Flaps
44i, 44ii Selectively Sealable Closure Flaps or Members
45a, 45b, 45c, 45d and 45e Edges of the Opening
46a, 46b Interior Edges of Closure Flaps
47, 47i, 47ii, 47iii Magnets along Edge 46a of Closure Flap 44i
48, 48i, 48ii, 48iii Magnets along Edge 46b of Closure Flap 44ii
49, 49i, 49ii, 49iii Pockets along Seam of Edge 46a of Closure Flap 44i
50, 50i, 50ii, 50iii Pockets along Seam of Edge 46b of Closure Flap 44ii
51i, 51ii, 51iii Bottom Surfaces of Magnets along Edge 46a of Closure Flap 44i
52i, 52ii, 52iii Top Surfaces of Magnets along Edge 46b of Closure Flap 44ii
53i, 53 ii, 53 iii Interior Edge Surfaces of Magnets along Edge 46a of Closure
Flap 44i
54i, 54ii, 54iii Interior Edge Surfaces of Magnets along Edge 46b of Closure
Flap 44ii
60 Size Adjustment Device
62 Elastic Tab
64 Adherence Strip
