U.S. patent application number 14/458010 was filed with the patent office on 2015-02-19 for modular necktie.
The applicant listed for this patent is Curtis A. Evans. Invention is credited to Curtis A. Evans.
Application Number | 20150047095 14/458010 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52465702 |
Filed Date | 2015-02-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150047095 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Evans; Curtis A. |
February 19, 2015 |
Modular Necktie
Abstract
A modular necktie comprises a collar portion, a collar portion
connector, a knot portion, a top portion, a bottom portion, and at
least one connecting fastener. The constituent parts are connected
to one another in a necktie assemblage. Some pieces may be
constructed of rigid or semi-rigid materials of construction, for
example by machining individual parts. The assemblage may be used
to contain or conceal a mobile computing device, a mobile phone, a
camera, a video camera, or sensors, including for gestures or
biometric, atmospheric, and location data.
Inventors: |
Evans; Curtis A.;
(Springfield, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Evans; Curtis A. |
Springfield |
VA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52465702 |
Appl. No.: |
14/458010 |
Filed: |
August 12, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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61865216 |
Aug 13, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
2/148 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 25/005
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/148 |
International
Class: |
A41D 25/00 20060101
A41D025/00 |
Claims
1. A modular necktie comprising: a collar portion; a knot portion;
a top portion; a bottom portion; and at least one connecting
fastener; wherein said top portion and said bottom portion are
separate pieces able to be connected with one another.
2. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein: a connecting fastener,
comprising a mechanical fastener or a magnetic fastener, connects
said top portion and said bottom portion; or a connecting fastener
connects said knot portion and said top portion.
3. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein: said knot portion and
said top portion are integrally formed; or said collar portion,
said knot portion and said top portion are integrally formed.
4. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein: said top portion is
constructed of rigid or semi-rigid material and said bottom portion
is constructed of pliable material.
5. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein: a connecting fastener
connects said top portion and said bottom portion; and said
connecting fastener or said top portion or said knot portion, or a
combination thereof, comprises a means for restraining a device
selected from the group comprising a mobile telephone, a camera, a
video camera, and a mobile computing device.
6. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein: the knot portion is
constructed from a material selected from the group comprising
metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone,
acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, and leather; and
the top portion is constructed from a material selected from the
group comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic,
composite, stone, acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood,
and leather.
7. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein: said collar portion is
a collar constructed of rigid or semi-rigid material selected from
the group comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic,
composite, stone, acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood,
and leather, and said collar portion and said knot portion are
magnetically connected or mechanically connected.
8. The modular necktie of claim 1, wherein: said knot portion, said
top portion, or an integrally formed knot portion and top portion
comprise an element selected from the group comprising a
timekeeping element; a sound producing element; a mobile computing
device; a hands-free communication device, or a part thereof; a
microphone; at least one sensor for sensing biometric, atmospheric
or location data; an RFID chip or other wireless communication
device; and a lighting element comprising an LED element, a power
source, and controls to alter the luminosity or color of said LED
element.
9. A modular necktie comprising: a collar portion, a knot portion,
a top portion, a first connector to connect said knot portion and
said top portion, a bottom portion, and a second connector to
connect said top portion and said bottom portion.
10. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said first connector
or said second connector is a magnetic connector.
11. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said top portion
comprises a through-hole for passage of a tie tack, cuff link, or
jewelry button.
12. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said top portion
comprises a front side and a back side; and said top portion
defines a pocket on the back side.
13. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: the knot portion is
constructed from a material selected from the group comprising
metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone,
acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, and leather; and
top portion is constructed from a material selected from the group
comprising metal, porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite,
stone, acrylic, gemstone, crystal, bone, antler, wood, and
leather.
14. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said second connector
or said top portion or said knot portion, or a combination thereof,
comprises a means for restraining a device selected from the group
comprising a mobile telephone, a camera, a video camera, and a
mobile computing device.
15. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said knot portion,
said top portion, or a combination of said knot portion and said
top portion, comprises a multimedia device selected from the group
comprising a microphone, a camera lens, and a video camera
lens.
16. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said knot portion
defines a recess; and a section of said top portion is constructed
to mate with said knot portion via said recess.
17. The modular necktie of claim 9, further comprising: an element
selected from the group comprising a timekeeping element; a sound
producing element; a mobile computing device; a hands-free
communication device, or a part thereof; a microphone; at least one
sensor for sensing biometric, atmospheric or location data; an RFID
chip or other wireless communication device; and a lighting element
comprising an LED element, a power source, and controls to alter
the luminosity or color of said LED element.
18. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said knot portion
comprises at least two parts; a magnetic connection or mechanical
connection mates said knot portion to said top portion.
19. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said knot portion
connects to said top portion by magnetic connection or mechanical
connection.
20. The modular necktie of claim 9, wherein: said knot portion,
said top portion, or a combination of said knot portion and said
top portion, help define a cavity, recess or location to
mechanically or magnetically store one or more collar stays.
21. The modular necktie of claim 9, further comprising: a wireless
signal receiving element; wherein: said knot portion, said top
portion, or the combination of said knot portion and said top
portion, help define a recess or location to house a lighting
element; said lighting element comprises an LED element, a power
source, and controls to alter the luminosity or color of said
lighting element; and said controls comprise said wireless signal
receiving element; and said controls comprise a wireless signal
sending element separate from said necktie assemblage.
22. The modular necktie of claim 21, wherein: said wireless signal
sending element separate from said necktie assemblage comprises a
mobile computing device and executable program code on
non-transitory computer readable media, running on said mobile
computing device, to send lighting element control signals.
23. A modular necktie kit comprising: a plurality of knot portions,
a plurality of top portions, a plurality of bottom portions, and at
least one connector to connect a top portion to a bottom portion,
said at least one connector comprising a mechanical connector or
magnetic connector.
24. The modular necktie kit of claim 23, further comprising: a
second connector to connect at least one knot portion with at least
one top portion; wherein: said second connector is a magnetic
connector or a mechanical connector.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/865,216, entitled "Modular Necktie," which
is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The necktie has long been a popular clothing and fashion
item. Most typically, a necktie comprises a unitary length of
pliable fabric, such as silk, which is knotted about the wearer's
neck. The tie cannot be altered, other than in the selection of the
knot tied by the wearer.
[0003] Neckties can be difficult to tie properly, particularly for
the young, the elderly, and those with limited use of their hands.
Certain knotting methods have been employed for these users, such
as the "clip on" tie, which is generally descriptive of a fixed,
pre-tied knot that mates to a fastener that clips the tie
assemblage to the wearer's shirt collar. While functional and
suitable for some, many users do not like such fasteners, which
also eliminate the part of the tie that circles the neck, and
therefore cause a "clip on" tie to look different than other ties
tied with a knot. For some, the "clip-on" tie is associated with
children's clothing or is otherwise considered not to be
fashionable, resulting in it not being utilized or not preferred by
many wearers.
[0004] Second, it is often difficult for the wearer of a necktie to
get the length right when tying the tie's knot. Aside from tying a
tie knot to look as though it was properly tied, the length of the
tie once the knot is completed is also important to many wearers.
As a general rule for all tie knots, the widest part of a tie
should hang roughly at the same height as the upper edge of the
wearer's leather belt, with the tie's tip extending slightly below
it. The tip of the narrow end then hangs wherever it may. For some,
it takes multiple attempts to tie a knot that looks nice when
finished and which leaves the tie at the desired length. Many tie
wearers tie the tie to achieve a tidy looking knot only, being
unaware of where the end of the tie may fall once tied. Others
struggle with simply tying the knot.
[0005] Particular knots are selected by the necktie wearer to
achieve a certain look, or to function and look proper with a
particular shirt collar size and shape. These knots cause the
length of the tie to vary each time the knot is tied. Additionally,
each tie is of a different length, bulk, and material of
construction, making a consistently tied knot result in a variable
length of the tie once tied. Particular knots, for example the
Windsor Knot or the Half Windsor Knot, may look good if tied
properly, yet they remain relatively difficult to execute while
keeping the tie length constant.
[0006] Necktie wearers are among those who select a certain
clothing assemblage and they have traditionally attired themselves
with watches, belts, belt buckles, shoes, suspenders/braces, pocket
squares, silk neckties, tie tacks/tie bars, cuff links, bracelets,
necklaces, rings, pocket watches/chains, piercings/ear rings,
tattoos, hats, scarves, gloves, glasses and sunglasses, bolo ties,
mobile phones and protective covers and casings, money clips,
fountain pens, and other clothing and personal items to project a
desired style, image, or to conform to a group. The present
invention addresses some limitations of traditional neckwear and
jewelry.
[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a modular
necktie, comprising a plurality of mating and interchangeable
parts, which addresses and overcomes shortcomings of standard
neckwear. The modular necktie provides the wearer a multitude of
combinations and permutations, facilitating a different look,
style, or function depending on the wearer's personal
preferences.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a modular necktie.
[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates a portion of a modular necktie.
[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates a modular necktie comprising a knot
portion, a top portion, a connector and a bottom portion.
[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates a modular necktie assemblage.
[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates the top portion of a modular necktie,
with a through-hole for a tie-tack or adornment.
[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates a modular necktie with illustrative
measurements.
[0014] FIG. 7A-E illustrates a construction method for the knot
portion of a modular necktie.
[0015] FIG. 8A illustrates a modular necktie with connector. FIG.
8B illustrates a modular necktie connector.
[0016] FIG. 9 illustrates a modular necktie construction.
[0017] FIG. 10A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and
FIG. 10B illustrates a perspective view, with associated
cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.
[0018] FIG. 11A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and
FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view, with associated
cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.
[0019] FIG. 12A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and
FIG. 12B illustrates a perspective view, with associated
cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.
[0020] FIG. 13A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and
FIG. 13B illustrates a perspective view, with associated
cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.
[0021] FIG. 14 illustrates a modular necktie kit, comprising four
knot portions, four top portions, and connectors.
[0022] FIG. 15 illustrates a modular necktie kit, comprising three
knot portions, three top portions, connectors, and several bottom
portions.
[0023] FIG. 16 illustrates a modular necktie kit, comprising knot
portions, top portions, connectors, and bottom portions.
[0024] FIG. 17A illustrates a modular necktie construction, and
FIG. 17B illustrates a perspective view, with associated
cross-sections, of the top portion of the modular necktie.
[0025] FIG. 18 illustrates a modular necktie kit, comprising top
portions, interchangeable knot portions, bottom portions, and
connectors.
[0026] FIG. 19 illustrates a modular necktie, comprising a section
for a mobile phone, mobile computing device, camera or videocamera,
and a knot portion, a top portion, and a bottom portion.
[0027] FIG. 20 illustrates a side perspective of a knot portion and
a top portion.
[0028] FIG. 21 illustrates a partial top perspective of a knot
portion and a top portion.
[0029] FIG. 22 illustrates a modular necktie, specifically showing
in the knot portion a connecting region to connect jewelry or
decorative attachments.
[0030] FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of a necktie assemblage
wherein the knot portion and the top portion are constructed of two
different types of wood, forming a striped pattern in each.
[0031] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of a partial
assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion and a
connector.
[0032] FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of a partial
assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion and a
connector.
[0033] FIG. 26 illustrates a side-perspective view of a partial
assemblage.
[0034] FIG. 27 illustrates a partial assemblage comprising a knot
portion, a first connector, a top portion, a second connector, and
a bottom portion.
[0035] FIG. 27-B illustrates a partial assemblage comprising a
wider knot portion, a shaped first connector, and a top
portion.
[0036] FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of a knot portion
mated to a top portion, with a band situated between the two.
[0037] FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of a partial
assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion, with a band
situated between the two, and a connector.
[0038] FIG. 30 illustrates a modular necktie assemblage comprising
a collar portion, a knot portion, a top portion, and a bottom
portion, wherein said collar portion is a collar constructed of
rigid material.
[0039] FIG. 31-A illustrates a necktie assemblage comprising an
elongated knot portion that tapers at its lower end and overlaps a
portion of the top portion.
[0040] FIG. 31-B is a side-perspective view of the assemblage
illustrated in FIG. 31-A.
[0041] FIG. 32 illustrates an assemblage comprising a top portion
that has been hinged at an end in order to open and reveal a
compartment for a timekeeping element.
SUMMARY
[0042] In one embodiment, an exemplary modular necktie comprises a
collar portion, a collar portion connector, a knot portion, a top
portion, a bottom portion, and at least one connecting fastener.
The modular necktie comprises an assemblage of constituent
parts.
[0043] In another embodiment, a modular necktie comprises a collar
portion, a collar portion connector, a knot portion, a top portion,
a first connector to connect said knot portion and said top
portion, a bottom portion, and a second connector to connect said
top portion and said bottom portion.
[0044] In another embodiment, a modular necktie kit comprises one
or more of the constituent parts of a modular necktie, allowing the
user to configure a multiplicity of different neckties from the
constituent parts.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] The techniques described throughout this disclosure may
address one or more of these needs and may advantageously overcome
one or more deficiencies of other options. Certain embodiments of
the inventions will now be described. These embodiments are
presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the
scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel methods and systems
described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms.
Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the
form of the methods and systems described herein may be made
without departing from the spirit of the inventions. To illustrate
some of the embodiments, reference will now be made to the
figures.
[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates a modular necktie comprising a collar
portion 1, a knot portion 2, a top portion 3, and a bottom portion
4.
[0047] In one embodiment, the collar portion 1 comprises a section
of fabric that circles the wearer's neck, and which would typically
be hidden under the collar of a men's dress shirt. The collar
portion can be any suitable textile, including silk, cotton, nylon,
spandex, elastic, or leather, or a combination thereof, or it can
be a link of chain, as one would associate with a necklace with a
fastening clasp.
[0048] The collar portion 1 may be secured about the wearer's neck
with a collar portion connector (not illustrated). This collar
portion connector may comprise a clasp, mating hook and loop
fasteners, mating magnets, or any other suitable connector to
secure the tie assemblage about a wearer's neck. Preferably, the
collar portion connector functions to allow the wearer to
appropriately size the collar portion for comfortable use by the
wearer. A modular necktie too tight about the wearer's neck is
undesirable, as is one that is too loose and which does not
appropriately situate the knot portion properly with respect to a
shirt collar. The preferred embodiment of collar portion 1
comprises mating magnets, allowing the fabric to be adjusted once
for sizing, and then allowing the tie to be quickly and simply
secured into place around the neck. Mating magnets also allow quick
removal of the tie.
[0049] Next, the knot portion 2 may comprise a pre-tied knot of
fabric, or other material fashioned to resemble or replace the knot
of a typical men's necktie. For example, the knot portion may
comprise a specially formed piece of metal, porcelain, ceramic,
glass, plastic or composite, acrylic, stone, gemstone, crystal,
bone, antler, wood, formed leather or the like. In this manner, the
knot portion may be constructed of different material than the
remainder of the modular necktie. The knot portion 2 is matingly
engaged with the collar portion 1, for example by forming the knot
portion 2 with a tunnel to accept through passage of the collar
portion 1.
[0050] In one embodiment of a knot portion 2, the knot portion 2 is
constructed of leather, which is embossed with a brogue-type
ornamentation to match a men's shoe with wingtip and brogue
ornamentation. Other examples include hand tooled leather,
materials having visually interesting surface treatments or
textures or patterns, embossing, brogue patterns, stitching, and
the like.
[0051] The top portion 3 of the modular necktie connects to the
knot portion 2. This top portion is about 2 to 25 inches in length,
preferably being shorter than that portion of a standard necktie
that, in a standard necktie, extends from the tie knot to the tip
of the tie. The top portion may be constructed of metal, porcelain,
ceramic, glass, plastic or composite, acrylic, stone, gemstone,
crystal, bone, antler, wood, or leather, for example leather
suitable for stitching or hand tooling or leather capable of being
styled to match a men's shoe, belt, or suspender, or any other
suitable textile. The top portion 3, even when constructed of solid
material, may be formed to resemble a dimple that is often
purposely formed when a tie of silk or fabric is tied.
[0052] The top portion 3 of the modular necktie may either be
integrally formed with the knot portion 2, or the top portion 3 may
connect to the knot portion 2 wherein a fastening means or a
connecting fastener secures the top portion 3 and the knot portion
2. As one example of a connecting fastener to secure the top
portion 3 and the knot portion 2, the knot portion 2 may define a
cylindrical recess with a magnet at one end. The top portion 3 may
have at one end a cylindrical cap with a magnet, wherein the
cylindrical cap with magnet is designed to mate with the
cylindrical recess and magnet. The cylindrical cap may be formed to
allow the top portion 3 to achieve a predetermined shape, for
example a dimple as one may find as being associated with
utilization of a certain type of tied necktie knot.
[0053] The cylindrical cap may also be constructed to be oblong, or
to comprise a spine or slot, to function to keep the cylindrical
cap from twisting within the cylindrical recess in the knot
portion. This construction keeps the knot portion 2 and the top
portion 3 in correct alignment with respect to one another.
[0054] By utilizing a connecting top portion 3 and knot portion 2,
one knot portion 2 may be quickly and easily mated with any number
of different top portions 3 in order to achieve a particular look
or style.
[0055] In one embodiment of the top portion 3, the top portion 3 is
constructed of leather, which is embossed with a brogue-type
ornamentation to match a men's shoe with wingtip and brogue
ornamentation. Other examples include hand tooled leather,
materials having visually interesting surface treatments, dyes,
textures or patterns, embossing, brogue patterns, stitching, and
the like.
[0056] The top portion 3 may also comprise an edge portion of
semi-rigid construction. The edge portion may function to keep the
tie assemblage close to the wearer and to prevent the tie
assemblage from becoming hung up upon the lapel of a suit coat or
overcoat.
[0057] Next, the top portion 3 is designed to mate with a bottom
portion 4, having a fastener situated between, or connecting, the
two. The top portion 3 and the bottom portion 4 may be formed of
differing materials. For example, the top portion 3 may comprise
hand-tooled leather, and the bottom portion 4 may comprise a silk
textile as is commonly associated with necktie construction.
[0058] The top portion 3 may also define or comprise a pocket or
recess on the back side, as may be sized to accept cash, credit
cards, ID, spare keys, a smartphone, knife, pen, stylus, RFID
payment chip, computer thumb drive, camera, videocamera, music
player, or the like.
[0059] The top portion 3 may also have a through-hole to receive
decorative adornments, such as tie tacks, cuff links, "jewelry
buttons", brooches, fanciful ornaments (e.g. JIBBITZ.RTM. brand
ornaments manufactured to fit holes in waterproof sandals sold
under the CROCS brand by Crocs, Inc.) and the like. FIG. 1
illustrates an embodiment of the through-hole in the shape of a key
hole in the top portion 3.
[0060] A fastener may be present between the top portion 3 and the
bottom portion 4. The fastener may comprise snaps, buttons, hooks,
magnets, or any other suitable quick release fastener. The fastener
may be constructed to achieve an ornamental design, as one might
find in construction of tie bars and tie tacks, buttons, and cuff
links. The fastener may also comprise a retaining piece for the
purpose of clipping or attaching the necktie assemblage to the
shirt of a wearer, similar to a tie bar or tie tack. The retaining
piece may function to hold the tie assemblage close to the wearer's
body.
[0061] The fastener, in conjunction with the top portion, bottom
portion, and knot portion, allows the user to configure a modular
tie for wearing in a number of different combinations and
permutations. Because the wearer may configure so many different
styles with the various constituent parts of the modular necktie,
the modular necktie may be more cost effective than owning a
multitude of standard silk neckties.
[0062] With five knots, five top portions, and five bottom portions
(as may be constructed from silk), a total of 125 combinations are
possible. The constituent parts of the modular necktie may be
manufactured and sold as independent pieces or as kits where the
constituent parts are selected to function well with one another,
for example to achieve a style, look or fashion for a particular
season. The exemplary kit, with 125 combinations, may be sold for
considerably less than the equivalent number of traditionally
constructed neckties. As a result, the modular necktie may be more
cost effective than compiling a wardrobe of traditionally
constructed neckties. The modular necktie also facilitates
configuration of many different ties for many different users,
occasions, or situations.
[0063] In addition to cost effectiveness of the modular necktie
versus traditionally constructed neckties, the modular necktie
reduces the amount of silk textile required. When the constituent
parts of the modular necktie are assembled, there is no requirement
for an additional piece of textile unnecessarily dangling behind
the tie, sometimes referred to as the rear apron, as would be found
with a traditionally constructed necktie. A keeper loop may also be
eliminated, as it is typically used in constructing a necktie only
for the purpose of keeping the rear apron attached to the remainder
of the tie. This reduction of the amount of textile required may
also reduce the cost of manufacture. Further, the silk textile is
not continually knotted and un-knotted, reducing wrinkling and the
wear and tear on the fabric. Bottom portions, if constructed of
silk, can be stored flat, kept wrinkle-free, and dry cleaned less
frequently.
[0064] Conversely, certain modular necktie constituent parts may be
crafted of fine, elegant, unique, expensive, fashionable, or luxury
parts or materials, so as to achieve characteristics of luxury
menswear, as one would associate with fine jewelry, luxury men's
wristwatches, or custom manufactured cutlery or pocketknives.
Examples of such materials include, but are not limited to, exotic
hardwoods, bones or antlers, stone, fossilized material, exotic
composites such as carbon fiber or KEVLAR fibers, inlaid gemstones,
precious metals (gold, silver, titanium, bronze, aluminum,
stainless steel, brass, Damascus steel, color case hardened metals,
etc.), wood with precious metal wire inlays (such as silver and
gold wire inlays), leather, exotic animal hides, and the like.
Distinct dyes, stains, polishes, paints, and surface treatments may
be used, for example including hand-painting, enameling, cloisonne,
champleve, hand-engraving, engine turning and Guilloche machining
using decorative engraving techniques in which a very precise
intricate repetitive pattern or design is mechanically engraved
into the underlying material with fine detail, color case
hardening, anodizing, bluing, powder coating, and the like. Certain
embodiments involve styles of metal engraving, inlay, and gem
setting, including Western single-point, bright-cutting, fine
European scroll, Bulino-style wildlife scenes, gold inlay, bezel,
bead, and flush setting. By varying materials of construction, the
modular necktie allows the manufacturer to construct neckwear
suitable for sale across a number of different price points and to
different customers and demographic groups.
[0065] Material of construction may be selected to match other
articles of clothing. For example, a leather knot portion and a
leather top portion may be selected to match a leather belt and
pair of leather shoes. A wood or metal knot portion may be used to
match a wristwatch, pair of cufflinks, suspenders, or a belt
buckle. A bottom portion may be used to match a women's dress, for
example in a bridal party.
[0066] Materials of construction may be selected for the knot
portion and the top portion that resist soiling, and therefore
reduce laundering costs normally associated with the wearing of
silk neckties.
[0067] FIG. 2 illustrates a knot portion 2-2, constructed of
leather, comprising a brogue pattern, and a top portion 2-3,
constructed of leather, comprising a dimple, a brogue and stitching
pattern along the edges, a symmetrical brogue pattern at the end,
and fastener elements, shown as small grey circles, affixed to the
rear of the top portion 2-3 to accept a connection with a bottom
portion. The fastener depicted here may be a magnet, button, or a
snap, for example.
[0068] FIG. 3 illustrates a knot portion 3-2, comprising a brogue
pattern, a top portion 3-3, comprising a brogue and stitching
pattern along the edges, a symmetrical brogue pattern at the end
nearest the knot portion, and a fastener 3-5 to connect the top
portion 3-3 to the bottom portion, partially shown as extending
beneath the fastener 3-5. Here, the fastener 3-5 is shown as two
rectangular elements, each being magnetically attracted to the
other. The top half of fastener 3-5 may be affixed permanently, or
semi-permanently, to the top portion 3-3, and the bottom half of
the fastener 3-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently,
to the bottom portion 3-3. In this manner, the fastener 3-5 allows
the wearer to quickly change the bottom portion with a replacement
bottom portion. For example, the wearer may swap bottom portions
quickly and easily until he finds one that suits his or her
stylistic preferences for the occasion or outfit being worn.
[0069] FIG. 4 illustrates a complete modular necktie assemblage
shown with a collar portion 4-1, a knot portion 4-2, comprising a
brogue pattern, a top portion 4-3, comprising a brogue and
stitching pattern along the edges, a symmetrical brogue pattern at
the end nearest the knot portion, a bottom portion 4-4, and a
fastener 4-5 to connect the top portion 4-3 to the bottom portion
4-4. Here, the fastener 4-5 is shown as two rectangular elements,
each being magnetically attracted to the other. The top half of
fastener 4-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to
the top portion 4-3, and the bottom half of the fastener 4-5 may be
affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the bottom portion
4-4.
[0070] FIG. 5 illustrates the lowermost portion of a top portion.
Here, the top portion is shown as having a through-hole 5-1, a
brogue and stitching pattern 5-2 at the edges of the top portion, a
fastener 5-3, and a pattern 5-4. Through-hole 5-1 may accept a
cuff-link, a tie tack, or a decorative button-type adornment.
[0071] FIG. 6 illustrates approximate dimensions for an embodiment
of the constituent parts of a modular necktie. A knot portion is
shown having a width of about 1.75 to 3 inches and a height of
about 2 inches. A top portion is shown as having a length of about
10 inches or less, and a width of about 1.5-2 in. at one end and
about 2-3.5 in. at the other end. The assemblage of the top portion
and the bottom portion is shown having a length of about 20 inches.
These dimensions may vary, and are not intended to limit the
construction of the modular necktie components. For example, the
knot portion may have a width narrower than 1.75 inches, or it may
be curved to better approximate the shape of a neck and have a
dimension that is more difficult to measure precisely.
[0072] FIG. 7A illustrates one method of construction for the knot
portion. Here a material, such as leather, is shown shaped to be
able to be folded about a buck or form 7A-1, to take a shape
approximating that of a knotted silk necktie. Top flap 7A-2 is
folded down over the buck 7A-1, and wings 7A-3 are folded at the
dotted fold lines. FIG. 7B shows the top flap folded down, and the
wings being folded in the direction of the curved arrows. FIG. 7C
illustrates the top flap and the wings folded into place, and
secured with a rivet or snap, shown as a small grey circle. FIG. 7D
and FIG. 7E illustrate differently shaped top flaps and wings, and
each shows the top flap and the wings being secured to one another
by stitching.
[0073] FIG. 8A shows a knot portion, a top portion, a connector,
and part of the bottom portion. FIG. 8B focuses upon the connector,
shown as two rectangular elements, between the top portion and the
bottom portion. Here, the fastener is shown as two rectangular
elements, each being magnetically attracted to the other. The top
half of fastener may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently,
to the top portion, and the bottom half of the fastener may be
affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the bottom
portion.
[0074] FIG. 9 illustrates a knot portion 9-2, a top portion 9-3,
and a fastener 9-5. Here, the knot portion 9-2 is depicted as two
lobes that connect to a tang integrally formed as part of the top
portion 9-3. The two lobes of the knot portion 9-2 may fasten to
the tang of the top portion 9-3, or to one another by holes formed
within the tang portion, for example by magnetic or mechanical
connection. The two lobes of the knot portion 9-2 are preferably
formed of a rigid material, such as wood, plastic, metal, or
composite.
[0075] In another embodiment, the knot portion is formed of
hardwood, and the top portion is formed of metal. In FIG. 9, the
knot portion is seen as two lobes of wood sandwiching a tang of the
top portion. This embodiment resembles a profile of the handle
portion of custom cutlery, or a custom manufactured pocket knife.
Differing materials of construction allows almost endless
possibilities for combinations and permutations of the modular
necktie assemblage.
[0076] FIG. 10A illustrates a knot portion, a top portion, and a
fastener. Here, the knot portion is depicted as two lobes that
connect to a tang integrally formed as part of the top portion. The
two lobes of the knot portion may fasten to the tang of the top
portion, or to one another by holes formed within the tang portion,
for example by magnetic or mechanical connection. The top portion
may be formed from wood, metal, plastic, or composite. The top
portion is shown as having a length from the top end A to the lower
end B. The top portion is shown as having formed therein a
"dimple", represented by the grey/hatched triangle near the bottom
of the knot portion. The tang of the top portion is oriented
roughly 90 degrees from the remainder of the top portion.
[0077] FIG. 10B illustrates a side perspective of the top portion,
and a cross section of the top portion at planes labeled 1 through
5, which planes are also shown in FIG. 10A. The cross sections are
intended to illustrate that, moving from the top end A to the
bottom end B through planes 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1, the dimple is
present, even when the top portion is fabricated from a rigid
material. This "dimple" mimics the dimple that may be found when a
typical silk necktie is tied. In FIG. 10B, the grey box near end A
of the top portion is intended to show a hole through which the
collar portion may pass.
[0078] FIG. 11A is a partial exploded view that shows the two lobes
of the knot portion being detached from the tang of the top
portion. FIG. 11B shows cross sections, similar to those described
in relation to FIG. 10B.
[0079] FIG. 12A illustrates an integrally formed knot portion and
top portion, and a fastener. FIG. 12B shows cross sections, similar
to those described in relation to FIG. 10B.
[0080] FIG. 13A illustrates a knot portion, a top portion, and a
fastener. Here, the knot portion is depicted as one lobe that
connects to an inline-tang integrally formed as part of the top
portion. The lobe of the knot portion may fasten to the inline-tang
of the top portion, for example by magnetic or mechanical
connection 13B-2. The top portion may be formed from wood, metal,
plastic, or composite. The top portion is shown as having a length
from the top end A to the lower end B. The top portion is shown as
having formed therein a "dimple", represented by the grey/hatched
triangle near the bottom of the knot portion. The tang of the top
portion is oriented roughly in line with the remainder of the top
portion.
[0081] FIG. 13B illustrates a side perspective of the top portion
and the knot portion, and a cross section of the top portion at
planes labeled 1 through 5, which planes are also shown in FIG.
13A. The cross sections are intended to illustrate that, moving
from the top end A to the bottom end B through planes 5, 4, 3, 2,
and 1, the dimple is present, even when the top portion is
fabricated from a rigid material. This "dimple" mimics the dimple
that may be found when a typical silk necktie is tied. In FIG. 13B,
the grey box near end A of the top portion is intended to show a
hole through which the collar portion may pass. The lobe of the
knot portion 13B-1 is shown as having a connector 13B-2 and a
connector hole 13B-3. Here, the connector 13B-2 is shown as a small
bolt and mating nut, to secure the lobe of the knot portion 13B-1
to the top portion near end A. The lobe of the knot portion 13B-1
may also fasten to the top portion by magnetic connection or other
mechanical fastener, to allow the lobe to be swapped with another
lobe, to achieve a different look for the modular necktie
assemblage. If the lobe of the knot portion 13B-1 is able to be
fastened to the top portion by magnetic connection, the knot
portion comprises at least one magnet and the top portion comprises
at least one magnet. The lobe of the knot portion 13B-1 may also be
formed in varying sizes that mate to a top portion of predetermined
dimension. In this manner, different lobe sizes may utilized with
one top portion, to allow the necktie assemblage to function with a
number of different shirt collars with varied widths, spreads, and
shapes.
[0082] FIG. 14 illustrates a kit of modular necktie components,
with a plurality of knot portions and a plurality of top portions.
Here, knot portion 14-2 is shown as accepting any of the four top
portions shown. The first representative top portion is shown at
its top end as having a connector 14-7 and a fitting end 14-6. As
an example, the connector 14-7 is a magnet, and the fitting end
14-6 is cylindrically shaped to mate with a cylindrical recess in
the knot portion 14-2 that has disposed therein a second magnet to
mate with the connector 14-7.
[0083] FIG. 15 illustrates a kit of modular necktie components,
with a plurality of knot portions, each having two mating lobes, a
plurality of top portions, each having a tang to mate with said
lobes, a plurality bottom portions, and a plurality of fasteners to
connect the top portions and the bottom portions.
[0084] FIG. 16 illustrates a kit of modular necktie components,
with a plurality of knot portions, a plurality of themed top
portions, a plurality bottom portions, and a plurality of fasteners
to connect the top portions and the bottom portions. Some of the
top portions are illustrated as having specialty construction
features, such as stitching that may match the stitching used on a
baseball, stitching that may match the stitching found on a
football, and stitching that may be found on a men's dress shoe.
Material of construction may be selected to match the specialty
construction features.
[0085] FIG. 17A illustrates an integrally formed knot portion and
top portion, and a fastener. FIG. 17B shows cross sections, similar
to those described in relation to FIG. 10B. FIG. 17B illustrates a
knot portion of larger volumetric dimension than other
embodiments.
[0086] FIG. 18 illustrates a kit of modular necktie components,
with a plurality of knot portions, each having a single front lobe,
a plurality of top portions, each having an inline-tang to mate
with said lobes, a plurality bottom portions, and a plurality of
fasteners to connect the top portions and the bottom portions.
[0087] FIG. 19 illustrates a complete modular necktie assemblage
shown with a collar portion 19-1, a knot portion 19-2, comprising a
brogue pattern, a top portion 19-3, comprising a brogue and
stitching pattern along the edges, a symmetrical brogue pattern at
the end nearest the knot portion, a bottom portion 19-4, and a
fastener 19-5 to connect the top portion 19-3 to the bottom portion
19-4. Here, the fastener 19-5 is shown as two rectangular elements,
with the lower fastening element being shown as an elongated
rectangle, as may be sized to accept or secure a mobile computing
device 19-6. Examples of the mobile computing device 19-6 are a
mobile phone, a camera, and a videocamera. The top half of fastener
19-5 may be affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the top
portion 19-3, and the bottom half of the fastener 19-5 may be
affixed permanently, or semi-permanently, to the bottom portion
19-4. In this embodiment, a convenient storage location for a
mobile phone is provided. While the storage location is illustrated
here as part of the fastener, the storage location may also be
defined by the top portion. The knot portion or the top portion may
also be constructed to accept and conceal a pinhole camera or
videocamera. In one embodiment, a remote-head video camera
communicates data to a mobile computing device, such as an Apple
iPhone. One exemplary function is to achieve covert or concealed
videography or audio recording. The media upon which the recording
is stored may be within the mobile computing device, or the mobile
computing device may wirelessly transmit the recording for storage
remotely, for example in undercover investigations or where it is
advantageous to create a recording that is not easily erased or
retrieved by those without authorized access. Alternatively, the
top portion or the fastener may be constructed to allow audio or
video recording from the mobile computing device being stored, for
example by having a hole to allow light to reach the lens of a
mobile phone that is capable of recording video. This method of
assemblage allows the constituent parts of the modular necktie to
be quickly disassembled and re-assembled.
[0088] FIG. 20 illustrates a side perspective of a knot portion
20-2 and a top portion 20-3. Here, the a knot portion 20-2 is shown
constructed of machined wood or metal, and a top portion 20-3 is
shown constructed of machined wood or metal and shaped to resemble
a dimpled silk necktie. The top portion 20-3 is shown having a tang
or flange 20-5, indicated here as a dashed rectangular flange,
which is inserted into a recess in the knot portion 20-2. A
connector 20-4, optionally with decorative features, is shown,
which comprises through-bolts to secure and fasten the knot portion
20-2 and top portion 20-3 via restraining the flange 20-5. Here, an
example of the connector 20-4 is a metallic structure, which is
machined to sit flush with respect to the knot portion 20-2,
creating a visually appealing assemblage. The connector 20-4 may
use connecting pins, as opposed to threaded through-bolts. An
exemplary connecting pin is magnetically attracted to at least a
part of the connector 20-4, the knot portion 20-2 or the flange
20-5. In this manner, the magnetic connecting pin may be placed in
the small hole in the connector, through a small hole in the flange
20-5, and thereby keep the flange 20-5 from separating from the
knot portion 20-2. The connecting pin may be removed by pushing an
end to sever the magnetic connection, for example by using a
specialty tool, a toothpick, a straightened paperclip, or
similar.
[0089] FIG. 21 illustrates a partial top perspective of a knot
portion 21-2 and a top portion 21-3. Here, the knot portion 21-2 is
shown constructed of machined wood or metal, and a top portion 21-3
is shown constructed of machined wood or metal and shaped to
resemble a dimpled silk necktie. The top portion 21-3 is shown
having a tang or flange 21-5, indicated here as a dashed
rectangular flange, which is inserted into a recess in the knot
portion 21-2. A connector 21-4 is shown, which comprises
through-bolts to secure and fasten the knot portion 21-2 and top
portion 21-3 via restraining the flange 21-5. Here, an example of
the connector 21-4 is a metallic structure, which is machined to
sit flush with respect to the knot portion 21-2, creating a
visually appealing assemblage. The connector 21-4 may use
connecting pins, as opposed to threaded through-bolts. An exemplary
connecting pin is magnetically attracted to at least a part of the
connector 21-4, the knot portion 21-2 or the flange 21-5. In this
manner, the magnetic connecting pin may be placed in the small hole
in the connector, through a small hole in the flange 21-5, and
thereby keep the flange 21-5 from separating from the knot portion
21-2. The connecting pin may be removed by pushing an end to sever
the magnetic connection, for example by using a specialty tool, a
toothpick, a straightened paperclip, or similar.
[0090] FIG. 22 illustrates a modular necktie, specifically showing
in the knot portion a connecting region 22-1 to connect jewelry or
decorative attachments. In an embodiment, the connecting region
22-1 comprises a magnet to mate with jewelry or decorative
attachments that have mating magnets.
[0091] FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of a necktie assemblage
wherein the knot portion and the top portion are constructed of two
different types of wood, forming a striped pattern in each.
Further, the regions of contrast can be of differing materials, for
example by using wood and inlaid silver or other precious metal.
This figure illustrates that differing types of materials may be
used not only for ornamentation, but to provide rigidity to the
assemblage; to provide abrasion resistance, for example when the
outermost material is metal and the contrasting material is wood
the metal edges prevent wear abrasion from occurring between the
assemblage and a coat lapel; and to prevent color seepage, for
example as could occur if wood stain became wet and leached color
to a shirt or suit coat.
[0092] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of a partial
assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion and a
connector. Here, the knot portion and the top portion are
constructed of wood. At the distal end of the top portion is a
connector, here shown as being constructed of metal for magnetic or
mechanical connection to a bottom portion.
[0093] FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of a partial
assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion and a
connector. Here, the knot portion and the top portion are
constructed partially of wood and partially of metal. The top
portion has a metal portion disposed about its periphery, which
metal portion at the distal end of the top portion also functions
as a connector for magnetic or mechanical connection to a bottom
portion.
[0094] FIG. 26 illustrates a side-perspective view of a partial
assemblage comprising a knot portion 26-1, a top portion 26-2, a
connector 26-3, and part of a bottom portion 26-4. The knot portion
26-1 at its top end shows an oblong orifice 26-5 through which the
collar portion may be threaded. The knot portion also shows at its
bottom end a fastener 26-6, constructed of metal, to fasten the
knot portion and the top portion, and a through-bolt 26-7 having a
decorative end, i.e. a gemstone.
[0095] FIG. 27 illustrates a partial assemblage comprising a knot
portion 27-1, a first connector 27-2, a top portion 27-3, a second
connector 27-4, and a bottom portion 27-5. The top portion 27-1 is
illustrated as shaped to accept the first connector 27-2. The first
connector 27-2 is also shaped to accept the top portion 27-3. FIG.
27-B illustrates a similar assemblage, but with a wider knot
portion and a slightly wider shaped first connector.
[0096] FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of a knot portion
mated to a top portion, with a band 28-1 situated between the two.
The band 28-1 may be part of a connector that connects the knot
portion and the top portion.
[0097] FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of a partial
assemblage comprising a knot portion, a top portion, with a band
28-1 situated between the two, and a connector. The band 29-1 may
be part of a connector that connects the knot portion and the top
portion. Here, the knot portion and the top portion are constructed
of wood. The top portion is shaped not to have a dimple. At the
distal end of the top portion is a connector 29-2, here shown as
being constructed of metal for magnetic or mechanical connection to
a bottom portion.
[0098] FIG. 30 illustrates a modular necktie assemblage comprising
a collar portion, a knot portion, a top portion, and a bottom
portion, wherein said collar portion is a collar constructed of
rigid or semi-rigid material. The rigid or semi-rigid material may
be any material selected from the group comprising metal,
porcelain, glass, ceramic, plastic, composite, stone, wood, and
leather, or other similar material. In the embodiment illustrated,
the collar portion is formed from gold and is styled to be worn by
a woman as a type of necklace. The collar portion is hinged at the
rear, for removal from the neck of the wearer. The collar portion
may have a connector to keep it closed at the front. The knot
portion and the collar portion may have a magnetic or mechanical
connection. This connection (not explicitly illustrated, but
obscured by the collar) may occur in a space behind the point of
the collar, hiding the method of connection. Again, the constituent
parts of the necktie assemblage may be swapped with other mating
parts to achieve a selected assemblage. For example, when worn by a
woman, the knot portion, top portion and bottom portion may be
selected of particular material, texture, and/or color in order to
match other clothing being worn.
[0099] FIG. 31-A illustrates a necktie assemblage comprising an
elongated knot portion that tapers at its lower end and overlaps a
portion of the top portion. This embodiment illustrates shapes that
may flow into one another for an aesthetically pleasing assemblage.
Shapes and materials of construction may be altered by the wearer,
using a kit comprising a plurality of constituent parts. FIG. 31-B
is a side-perspective view of the assemblage illustrated in FIG.
31-A.
[0100] In another embodiment, either the knot portion, the top
portion, or a combination of the two, may comprise a timekeeping
element, such as a watch. FIG. 32 illustrates a top portion that
has been hinged at an end in order to open and reveal a timekeeping
element, such as a watch case or a pocket watch. FIG. 32
illustrates the front portion of the top portion being opened to
reveal a constrained watch. The rear portion of the top portion is
shown as having a hole large enough to accept the watch case when
the two halves of the top portion are folded together and secured
into a closed configuration. A series of hinges and/or hidden
compartments may be created in the top portion for the purpose of
restraining a timepiece or other article, such as a small music
player, an example being an APPLE iPod Shuffle. A timepiece may
also be concealed within the knot portion, as is shown in FIG.
13-B, which shows a knot portion as a single lobe that may be
detached from the top portion and re-secured by magnetic
connection. That single lobe may be hollowed or shaped to accept a
small article, such as a watch.
[0101] In another embodiment, either the knot portion or the top
portion may comprise a sound producing element. One example of the
sound producing element is a speaker to be connected to a mobile
telephone or a mobile computing device, for example to play music.
Another example of a sound producing element is a set of chimes,
tuned teeth, or plucked pins as one may find in a musicbox or
luxury wristwatch, for example activated hourly to announce the
time or when activated by the user. Another example is a quiet
vibrating mechanism. In other embodiments, the sound producing
element can be used to provide alerts, for example for incoming
email messages, text messages, phone calls, alarms, and so on.
[0102] In the exemplary embodiments, where the knot portion or top
portion are constructed of solid material, one appropriate method
of construction is use of CAD software to model the components.
Scanning, or 3D scanning, may be used on sculpted clay models or
tied fabric in order to generate a draft CAD file. Once CAD files
are created, the files can be used to create tool paths for
machining, and the tool paths transferred to a multi-axis lathe to
carve the components. 3D printing can also be used to construct
portions of the assemblage. Further, a base CAD file can be used to
illustrate the assemblage, but a consumer may then customize the
dimensions (and/or materials) of the assemblage he desires to be
constructed. For example, he may vary the dimensions of the knot
portion (width at the top, width at the bottom, volume of the
"knot", curvature of the sides, and so on), the presence or absence
of a dimple in the top portion, the length of the top portion, and
so on.
[0103] In another embodiment the knot portion and/or the top
portion may define a slot, recess or location to mechanically or
magnetically affix one or more collar stays. The collar stays may
be detached and used in a shirt collar.
[0104] In another embodiment the knot portion and/or the top
portion may define a slot, recess, cavity or location to house a
lighting element. The lighting element, for example a small LED
lamp, may be connected to a power source for lighting. In one use,
the lighting element may illuminate the knot portion and/or the top
portion, or portions thereof. For example, the knot portion may be
constructed of a semi-translucent material, such as stone, polymer,
or glass, which may transmit some light from the lighting element.
In another use, the lighting element may illuminate only certain
portions of the knot portion or the top portion, such as their
periphery. If an LED is used, the user may have ability to control
the luminosity and color of the light with a set of controls. This
set of controls may be integral to the necktie assemblage, or
external to the assemblage, as one might construct with a portion
of the controls comprising a mobile computing device application to
control the lighting element and another portion of the controls
comprising a wireless receiver to receive control signals.
[0105] In another embodiment, either the knot portion or the top
portion comprise a hands-free communication device, as such
communications devices are known in the mobile telephony art to
pair with mobile telephones for hands-free mobile telephone use.
Placement of a microphone in the knot portion, nearer the speaker's
vocal chords, is advantageous over devices worn that place the
microphone near the ear.
[0106] In another embodiment, the modular necktie further comprises
one or more sensors to detect human biometric signs, for example
heart rate monitoring sensors, body temperature sensors, and so on.
The sensors may be configured to communicate, including wirelessly,
with a computing device, including to store data. Other sensors
include sensors for sensing biometric, atmospheric or location
data, for example temperature, speed, acceleration, altitude,
barometric pressure, GPS coordinates, and so on.
[0107] In another embodiment, the modular necktie further comprises
an RFID chip, or other wireless communication device or antenna,
for the purpose of communicating with other computing devices or
systems. For example, such devices may facilitate point of sale
purchase transactions or proximity-card type services.
Proximity-card type services may be exemplified by identification
verification, contactless payment systems, active or vicinity
cards, access to secured facilities, fare cards, etc. Biometric
sensors or vital sign sensors and collected data may be used in
conjunction with the wireless communication device to provide a
system for biometric identification, for example combining an
average resting heart rate over a period of time with an electronic
credential to provide a biometric identifier.
[0108] In another embodiment, the modular necktie further comprises
a concealed mobile computing device, making the necktie a "smart"
garment that has facility to communicate with other computing
devices. For example, the mobile computing device may comprise
memory, a CPU, a power source, and a wireless communication means
to communicate with another device. For example, a body-worn mobile
computing device, inconspicuously concealed within or appearing as
the necktie garment, may communicate video display information to
an external monitor, for example a wristwatch, mobile phone, tablet
computer, kiosk, advertising wall, computer monitor, flat-screen
television, and so on. Other external devices may communicate with
the mobile computing device, for example a wireless keyboard.
Alternately, sensors worn on the wrist, hands, or fingers, may be
used, in communication with the necktie assemblage, to accomplish
spatial gestures that may be used to interact with a computer. That
is, the necktie assemblage may monitor the relative spatial
position of the sensors with respect to the necktie assemblage to
affect a series of gestures for use with a computer.
[0109] The features and attributes of the specific embodiments
disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form
additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the
present disclosure. Although the present disclosure provides
certain embodiments and applications, other embodiments that are
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, including
embodiments, which do not provide all of the features and
advantages set forth herein, are also within the scope of this
disclosure.
[0110] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment,"
"an embodiment," or "a specific embodiment" means that a particular
feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with
the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the
present invention and not necessarily in all embodiments. Thus,
respective appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an
embodiment," or "in a specific embodiment" in various places
throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the
same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures,
or characteristics of any specific embodiment of the present
invention may be combined in any suitable manner with one or more
other embodiments. It is to be understood that other variations and
modifications of the embodiments of the present invention described
and illustrated herein are possible in light of the teachings
herein and are to be considered as part of the spirit and scope of
the present invention.
[0111] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims
that follow, "a," "an," and "the" includes plural references unless
the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the
description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the
meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on" unless the context clearly
dictates otherwise.
[0112] The foregoing description of illustrated embodiments of the
present invention, including what is described in the Abstract, is
not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the
precise forms disclosed herein. While specific embodiments of, and
examples for, the invention are described herein for illustrative
purposes only, various equivalent modifications are possible within
the spirit and scope of the present invention, as those skilled in
the relevant art will recognize and appreciate. As indicated, these
modifications may be made to the present invention in light of the
foregoing description of illustrated embodiments of the present
invention and are to be included within the spirit and scope of the
present invention.
[0113] Thus, while the present invention has been described herein
with reference to particular embodiments thereof, a latitude of
modification, various changes and substitutions are intended in the
foregoing disclosures, and it will be appreciated that in some
instances some features of embodiments of the invention will be
employed without a corresponding use of other features without
departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as set forth.
Therefore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular
situation or material to the essential scope and spirit of the
present invention. It is intended that the invention not be limited
to the particular embodiments disclosed, including the best mode or
preferred embodiment(s) contemplated for carrying out this
invention, but that the invention will include any and all
embodiments and equivalents falling within the scope of the
appended claims.
* * * * *