U.S. patent application number 15/462116 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-29 for versatile jewelry.
The applicant listed for this patent is Arni Thor INGIMUNDARSON, Shireen Maria THOR. Invention is credited to Arni Thor INGIMUNDARSON, Shireen Maria THOR.
Application Number | 20170181509 15/462116 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59088566 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170181509 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
INGIMUNDARSON; Arni Thor ;
et al. |
June 29, 2017 |
Versatile Jewelry
Abstract
A versatile jewelry includes a semi-rigid or rigid main body
arranged to extend over a wrist of a user. The main body defines an
inner surface arranged to be worn against the wrist and an outer
surface opposite the inner surface. At least one retaining feature
is defined about a periphery of the main body. At least one hair
accessory is adapted to extend over the main body and secured by
the at least one retaining feature.
Inventors: |
INGIMUNDARSON; Arni Thor;
(San Diego, CA) ; THOR; Shireen Maria; (San Diego,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
INGIMUNDARSON; Arni Thor
THOR; Shireen Maria |
San Diego
San Diego |
CA
CA |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
59088566 |
Appl. No.: |
15/462116 |
Filed: |
March 17, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15283957 |
Oct 3, 2016 |
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15462116 |
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15076055 |
Mar 21, 2016 |
9526304 |
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15283957 |
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14996666 |
Jan 15, 2016 |
9433264 |
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15076055 |
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14495022 |
Sep 24, 2014 |
9474342 |
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14996666 |
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61944148 |
Feb 25, 2014 |
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61881720 |
Sep 24, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 2005/008 20130101;
A44D 2203/00 20130101; A44C 5/0084 20130101; A44C 5/12 20130101;
A45D 8/00 20130101; A44C 5/0092 20130101; A45D 8/36 20130101; A45F
2005/006 20130101; A45D 8/34 20130101; Y10T 29/49826 20150115; A45F
5/00 20130101; Y10T 29/4987 20150115; A44C 5/0023 20130101; A44C
5/003 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A44C 5/00 20060101
A44C005/00; A45D 8/34 20060101 A45D008/34 |
Claims
1. A versatile jewelry comprising: a semi-rigid or rigid main body
arranged to extend over a wrist of a user, the main body defining
an inner surface arranged to be worn against the wrist, an outer
surface opposite the inner surface; at least one retaining feature
defined about a periphery of the main body; and at least one hair
accessory adapted to extend over the main body and secured by the
at least one retaining feature.
2. The versatile jewelry of claim 1, wherein the at least one
retaining feature comprises one or more magnets inserted in the
main body.
3. The versatile jewelry of claim 2, wherein the at least one hair
accessory includes one or more magnets.
4. The versatile jewelry of claim 1, wherein the main body
comprises a plurality of wire members.
5. The versatile jewelry of claim 1, wherein the at least one
retaining feature comprises a circumferential groove formed in the
main body.
6. The versatile jewelry of claim 5, wherein the main body defines
first and second end portions defining a clearance therebetween
sized to receive the wrist, and the at least one hair accessory
comprises a hair band adapted to be selectively disposed within the
groove and to span the clearance at a height above the inner
surface, the hair band having an elasticity, and the main body
having a rigidity arranged to resist the elasticity of the hair
band without deformation of the main body and to distribute
pressure from the hair band away from the wrist.
7. The versatile jewelry of claim 6, wherein the at least one hair
accessory comprises at least two hair bands.
8. The versatile jewelry of claim 5, wherein the groove has a
varying depth along a length thereof, the depth decreasing toward a
lower section of the main body arranged to be worn under a bottom
of the wrist.
9. The versatile jewelry of claim 5, further comprising a release
mechanism connected to the main body and arranged to selectively
lift the at least one hair accessory up and at least partially out
of the groove.
10. The versatile jewelry of claim 9, wherein the release mechanism
includes a push member movable between an original position and a
release position.
11. The versatile jewelry of claim 1, wherein the retaining feature
is formed by the main body and a clasp is adapted for opening the
main body and the retaining feature is arranged to extend
underneath the clasp.
12. The versatile jewelry of claim 1, further comprising a release
segment extending radially inwardly between first and second end
portions of the main body, the segment arranged to facilitate
disengagement of the at least one hair accessory from the main
body.
13. The versatile jewelry of claim 12, wherein the release segment
comprises a concave segment.
14. The versatile jewelry of claim 12, wherein the release segment
is arranged to shift between a first position in which the release
segment comprises a convex segment and a second position in which
the release segment comprises a concave segment and extends
radially inward below the outer surface of the main body.
15. The versatile jewelry of claim 1, wherein the at least one
retaining feature comprises one or more hooks on the main body
adapted to secure that at least one hair accessory on the main
body.
16. A versatile jewelry comprising: a semi-rigid or rigid main body
arranged to extend over a wrist of a user, the main body defining
an inner surface arranged to be worn against the wrist and an outer
surface opposite the inner surface; at least one retaining feature
defined about a periphery of the main body, the at least one
retaining feature comprising one or more protruding portions
defined as radially extending outwardly from the main body and
arranged to substantially hold the at least one hair accessory in
place; and at least one hair accessory adapted to extend over the
main body and secured by the at least one retaining feature.
17. The versatile jewelry of claim 12, wherein the main body
comprises a fully circumferential bracelet.
18. The versatile jewelry of claim 16, wherein a gap is defined
between the first and second protruding portions, the gap being
configured and dimensioned to enable a user to place the at least
one hair accessory between the first and second protruding
portions.
19. The versatile jewelry of claim 18, wherein the gap defines a
non-linear shape arranged to prevent the at least one hair
accessory from sliding or slipping through the gap.
20. A versatile jewelry comprising: a semi-rigid or rigid main body
arranged to extend over a wrist of a user, the main body defining
an inner surface arranged to be worn against the wrist, an outer
surface opposite the inner surface, first and second end portions
defining a clearance therebetween sized to receive the wrist when
the main body is donned by the user, and a circumferential groove
formed in the outer surface having a bottom and sidewalls extending
between the bottom and the outer surface; a plurality of magnets
inserted in the main body; and a hair band adapted to be
selectively disposed within the groove and to span the clearance at
a height above the inner surface, and the sidewalls being arranged
to substantially hold the hair band in place when the hair band is
disposed in the groove, the hair band having an elasticity, and the
main body having a rigidity arranged to resist the elasticity of
the hair band without deformation of the main body and to
distribute pressure from the hair band away from the wrist.
Description
FIELD OF ART
[0001] This disclosure relates to versatile jewelry having a
combination of aesthetic and functional purposes, and to a
versatile jewelry arranged to protect an arm or wrist from poor
blood circulation, pressure marks, and a carrier to maintain hair
accessories while providing aesthetically pleasing properties.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Many individuals wear a hair tie, such an elastic band, to
keep their hair away from their face during certain activities.
This style has also become fashionable where putting the hair into
a ponytail presents a different look. The elastic band industry has
grown tremendously with different styles, colors and sizes and
elasticity being offered. Many individuals like to change their
style throughout the day, wearing their hair down or putting it
into a ponytail, depending on the look or functional activity they
are performing. This poses an issue where an elastic band must keep
the hair up, but it can easily get lose if being taken on and off
constantly. This has caused many individuals to wear an elastic
band around their wrist to ensure that they always have one around
when needed.
[0003] A problem with wearing an elastic band is both the
appearance, such as when an individual dresses up, and physical
impact, such as forming a mark on the wrist due to the elastic band
tightly fitting to a wrist and possible restriction in circulation
of the arm. Solutions are offered to address the aesthetic part
with many styles of elastic bands offered in different colors and
with jewelry attached to the band but few if any solutions exist
that properly address both issues at the same time; providing an
aesthetically pleasing look and protecting the wrist from marks and
poor circulation.
[0004] US patent application publication 2013/0133365, published
May 30, 2013, describes a fully circumferential bracelet with a
channel to wear a hair tie. Due to the circumferential design, the
hair tie is located away from the wrist in a channel groove defined
by the bracelet. Due to the inherent circumferential shape of the
bracelet, it is difficult to remove the hair tie from the
bracelet.
[0005] To solve this issue, the publication describes providing
spaced indents along the circumference of the channel groove of the
bracelet to allow fingers to grab the hair tie and remove it from
the bracelet. These indents are not aesthetically pleasing and make
the bracelet complicated, bulky and aesthetically limited. The
indents prohibit or significantly reduce the ability to configure
the bracelet with attractive features that make each bracelet
unique in appearance because all bracelets made under the
publication are recognized with the indents and must have
significant bulk to accommodate such indents.
[0006] A significant trend is tracking activity with activity
monitors. These activity monitors have been integrated into
bracelets that also serve an aesthetic purpose. Certain companies
promoting these type of bracelets include Nike with Fuelband,
Fitbit and Jawbone. Technology of activity monitoring seems is
similar, and companies differentiate on design and branding. A
large segment of customers are young, active individuals. These
users must remember to bring a hair tie to the gym and sometime
wear them around their wrist so they don't forget them when they
need them.
SUMMARY
[0007] Embodiments of the disclosure involve a versatile jewelry
with an aesthetically pleasing look having an attachment point or
retaining features for one or more hair accessories, such as a hair
tie or elastic band, to maintain it in place and provide a
distribution of pressure from the force created by the tension of
the hair accessory, partially or completely around the wrist.
[0008] Embodiments of the versatile jewelry, such as a bracelet,
preferably include an "open cuff" design, allowing for the bracelet
to be low profile by sitting close to the wrist. The configuration
makes it easy to place over the wrist by slipping it directly onto
the wrist instead of passing over the hand; it is easy to remove
the hair accessory by pulling at it where the bracelet is open. The
open cuff design may include the bracelet being rigid or
semi-rigid, and enable opening the bracelet to don over the wrist
or the hand. The bracelet is sufficiently rigid cuff to keep the
hair accessory from applying much pressure on the wrist while
looking aesthetically pleasing on the wrist and offering
versatility of appearances.
[0009] The open design may include a variety of shapes and is not
limited to a circular profile. The profile may be oval, semi-oval,
square or comprise other possible shapes. The contours of the
bracelet are not limited to being uniform but rather they may be
irregular and may be streamlined without a necessity of indents to
remove the hair accessory.
[0010] It will be understood that the bracelet is not limited to
the open cuff design, but may include many of the features
described that enable a "closed cuff" design to easily remove a
hair accessory.
[0011] According to an embodiment, the versatile jewelry includes a
semi-rigid or rigid main body defining at least one retaining
feature about the outer periphery. The main body is preferably
formed from a metal or plastic, whereas the at least one hair
accessory may be formed from an elastic material. The main body has
a semi-circular profile and defines first and second opposing end
portions with a clearance therebetween. The at least one retaining
feature may be a groove formed into the outer surface of the main
body and extending about its length.
[0012] At least one hair accessory, such as a hair tie or elastic
band, is adapted to extend over the main body and was secured by
the at least one retaining feature. The main body retains the at
least one hair accessory therewith and spans the periphery of the
main body and the clearance. The semi-rigid or rigid body resists
the elasticity of the elastic band.
[0013] The at least one of the first and second opposing end
portions may define a troughed portion enclosing an end of the at
least one retaining feature, and the first and second opposing end
portions may each define a troughed portion enclosing the at least
one retaining feature. The groove may terminate short of the first
and second end portions, and the at least one hair accessory is
arranged to extend over the first and second end portions. The
first and second end portions may suspend the at least one hair
accessory at a height above the at least one retaining feature
across the clearance.
[0014] The main body may define upper and lower portions having
decorative features. The upper and lower portions may have a
non-uniform profile or contour bordering the at least one retaining
feature. Alternatively, the decorative feature may result in a
highly streamlined profile comprising substantially thinned upper
and lower portions and a thin groove forming the at least one
retaining feature. At least one of the upper and lower portions may
include attractive features secured thereon such as diamonds,
colored beads, crystals, and other known types, and which do not
interfere with the at least one retaining feature, and do not
impede removal of the at least one hair accessory.
[0015] The first end portion may enclose the at least one retaining
feature and the second end portion may open to the at least one
retaining feature. The at least one retaining feature may be a
groove, the first and second end portions open to groove.
[0016] In another embodiment, the main body defines first and
second ledges protruding from the first and second end portions
outside the upper and lower portions, respectively, and as the
bottom periphery of the groove.
[0017] In another embodiment, the main body defines a sleeve
protruding from upper and lower rims along the upper and lower
circumferential edges, respectively. The upper and lower rims may
radially outwardly protrude from the at least one retaining feature
defined as a retaining surface formed by the main body.
[0018] The sleeve may extend over the at least one retaining
feature and the at least one hair accessory. The sleeve may define
upper and lower segments spaced apart by a gap. The gap may have
contours to prohibit slippage of the hair accessory from the
sleeve, such as non-linear segments. The non-linear segments may
include a decorative feature, such as a squiggly line or other
decorative yet functional design. The sleeve may include attractive
features such as those described above and other indicia or
attractive features such as a name, brand or other motif.
[0019] According to a method for wearing versatile jewelry, the
method may include the steps of providing a semi-rigid or rigid
main body about a wrist of a wearer wherein the main body defines
at least one retaining feature about the circumference thereabout
and first and second end portions spaced apart by a clearance;
placing at least one hair accessory over the main body; securing
the at least one hair accessory to the at least one retaining
feature with the first and second end portions suspending the at
least one hair accessory over the clearance; and wherein the main
body prevents the hair accessory from exerting pressure over the
wrist at which the main body extends.
[0020] The main body may also contain an activity or general health
monitor of some sort. This allows the active user that wants to
track activity with an activity monitor also to keep her elastic
handy when required for active use. The user may place hair in a
ponytail when going to the gym but may keep the hair straight
during other daily activities. Having such a channel in an activity
monitor allows them to make the hair tie a part of the design,
serve an aesthetic purpose and to always be handy when needed.
Activity monitor companies can also use this feature as a
differentiating factor when comparing themselves to the competition
by creating a version of their activity monitor bracelet.
[0021] The numerous advantages, features and functions of the
embodiments of the versatile jewelry will become readily apparent
and better understood in view of the following description and
accompanying drawings. The following description is not intended to
limit the versatile jewelry but instead merely provides exemplary
embodiments for ease of understanding.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the
present invention will become better understood regarding the
following description, appended claims, and accompanying
drawings.
[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a prior art elastic
band commonly worn around the wrist.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a mark created from
elastic band of FIG. 1 after minimal use.
[0025] FIG. 3A is a front perspective view showing an embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0026] FIG. 3B is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
3A.
[0027] FIG. 3C is a front sectional view taken from the embodiment
of FIG. 3A.
[0028] FIG. 3D is a top sectional view taken from FIG. 3B.
[0029] FIG. 3E is a side sectional view taken from FIG. 3B.
[0030] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
3A of a versatile jewelry protecting the skin from the compression
of a hair accessory and distributing the pressure while enhancing
the aesthetic appearance of the wrist.
[0031] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
3A on a wrist showing a clearance defined by a main body of the
versatile jewelry.
[0032] FIG. 6. is a schematic view of FIG. 4 showing a first step
of removal of a hair accessory.
[0033] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of FIG. 6 showing a next step of
removal of a hair accessory from the main body.
[0034] FIG. 8A is a front perspective view showing an embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0035] FIG. 8B is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
8A.
[0036] FIG. 8C is a side sectional view taken from FIG. 8B.
[0037] FIG. 9A is a front perspective view showing an embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0038] FIG. 9B is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
9A.
[0039] FIG. 9C is a front sectional view taken from FIG. 9B.
[0040] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a set of versatile
jewelry.
[0041] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry having different colors.
[0042] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0043] FIG. 13A is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0044] FIG. 13B is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 13A.
[0045] FIG. 13C is a front sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
13A.
[0046] FIG. 13D is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 13A.
[0047] FIG. 13E is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13E-13E
shown in FIG. 13D.
[0048] FIG. 14 is a side view showing another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry.
[0049] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0050] FIG. 16A is a side view showing another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry.
[0051] FIG. 16B is a side view of the versatile jewelry in FIG. 16A
with a pair of hair accessories secured thereto.
[0052] FIG. 16C is a top view of the versatile jewelry in FIG.
16A.
[0053] FIG. 17A is a side view showing another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry.
[0054] FIG. 17B is another side view showing the versatile jewelry
of FIG. 17A.
[0055] top view showing another embodiment of a versatile
jewelry.
[0056] FIG. 18A is a side view showing another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry.
[0057] FIG. 18B is a cross section view of the versatile jewelry in
FIG. 18A.
[0058] FIG. 19A is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0059] FIG. 19B is a side view of the versatile jewelry in FIG.
19A.
[0060] FIG. 20 is a side view showing another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry.
[0061] FIG. 21A is a side view showing another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry.
[0062] FIG. 21B is a front view of the versatile jewelry in FIG.
21A.
[0063] FIG. 21C is another front view of the versatile jewelry in
FIG. 21A with the hair accessory removed for ease of reference.
[0064] FIG. 22A is a top view showing another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry.
[0065] FIG. 22B is a bottom view of the versatile jewelry in FIG.
22A.
[0066] FIG. 22C is a top perspective view of the versatile jewelry
in FIG. 22A on a finger.
[0067] FIG. 22D is a bottom view of the versatile jewelry in FIG.
22A on a finger.
[0068] FIG. 23 is a top view showing another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry.
[0069] FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0070] FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0071] FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0072] FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0073] FIG. 28A is a perspective view showing another embodiment of
a versatile jewelry.
[0074] FIG. 28B is another perspective view showing the versatile
jewelry of FIG. 28A.
[0075] In the figures, similar elements are provided with similar
reference numbers. The drawing figures are not drawn to scale, or
proportion, but instead are drawn to provide a better understanding
of the components, and are not intended to be limiting in scope,
but provide exemplary illustrations.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
[0076] FIG. 1 shows a hair accessory or an elastic band 10 commonly
worn by individuals that keep their hair flowing or in a ponytail
through different times of the day. Keeping the elastic band on the
wrist W by slipping it over the hand H ensures that it does not get
lost and may be used by some as decoration.
[0077] An issue with wearing such an elastic band is shown in FIG.
2. The marks or indentation I left on the wrist are due to pressure
exerted on the wrist W by the tension in the elastic band. The
pressure leaves a mark, thereby creating discomfort and restricting
circulation to the wrist W. There are times when one would not feel
comfortable wearing just an elastic band on an arm, such as when
wearing business attire or at an evening event where elegant
clothing is essential. These individuals therefore must decide
beforehand whether to keep their hair down or in a ponytail or else
having to keep the band hidden in a pocket or a purse.
[0078] FIGS. 3A-7 show an exemplary embodiment 100 of the versatile
jewelry. A main body 102 or bracelet partially wraps around the
wrist W, and has a substantially smooth inner surface 128 arranged
to be worn against a wrist. Material used in this bracelet can be
any that holds its shape and distributes the pressure away from the
wrist. Materials used can be silver, gold, steel, plastic, rubber,
leather or any other material deemed usable to serve this purpose.
The bracelet may be bent to shape to tightly conform to the user's
wrist.
[0079] The bracelet 100 preferably includes an "open cuff" design,
allowing for the bracelet to be low profile by sitting close to the
wrist. The configuration makes it easy to place over the wrist by
slipping it directly onto the wrist instead of passing it over the
hand, and to remove the hair accessory by pulling at it where the
bracelet in open. The open cuff design may include the bracelet
being rigid or semi-rigid, and enabling opening the bracelet to don
over the wrist or the hand. The bracelet is sufficiently rigid to
keep the hair accessory from applying too much pressure on the
wrist while looking aesthetically pleasing on the wrist and
offering a variety of appearances.
[0080] The bracelet may be opened and due to the material of the
bracelet being resilient, the bracelet returns to its original
shape once it is released over the wrist. Alternatively, the
bracelet may be elastic so that it is opened and then contracts
over the wrist, such that the bracelet has a certain width to
minimize concentration of pressure over the wrist.
[0081] The open cuff includes a clearance or opening 106 of the
bracelet 100 allowing for the bracelet to be easily donned while
ensuring that it stays well on the arm during any activity. The
bracelet 100 can be circular but would then require a locking
system that can allow access or to have the bracelet donned by
putting the hand through the bracelet, as depicted in FIGS. 11 and
12. The retaining feature 112 may be in the form of a groove or
channel 112 resembling the shape of the hair accessory, ensuring
that the hair accessory stays within the confinement of the contour
built into the bracelet 100. This method is not the only way the
bracelet could be kept in place properly. Alternative methods such
as: one or several hooks on bracelet; overlay or any built in shape
that keeps the elastic in place; magnets inserted into bracelet and
attached to elastic band; one or more ridges along the bracelet to
ensure that one or more of the elastic bands do not move in
place.
[0082] There may be a width of the bracelet formed between the
upper and lower portions 114, 116 to ensure that the hair accessory
does not slip from the bracelet 100 and therefore proper
distribution of pressure from the hair accessory is ensured. If
multiple hair accessories are worn, this can be solved by more than
one groove or channel, or a wider channel to hold more than one
hair accessory in the embodiments of 9A-9C.
[0083] From the exemplary examples, the versatile jewelry other
than its ornamental design is to reduce the pressure applied by the
elastic band on the wrist. The main body in a bracelet can
completely lift the elastic band off the wrist or allow it to only
apply a minimal amount of pressure in certain areas where the
bracelet does not cover the arm.
[0084] According to the embodiment of FIGS. 3A-7, the versatile
jewelry includes the semi-rigid or rigid main body 102 defining at
least one retaining feature 112 defined about the outer periphery
thereof between the first or upper and the second or lower portions
114, 116. The at least one hair accessory is preferably formed from
an elastic material 104 but is not limited to elastic material and
may comprise a tie or other element looped or secured to the main
body 102. The main body has a semi-circular profile and defines
first and second opposing end portions 108, 110 with a clearance
106 therebetween to form the open cuff design. The at least one
retaining feature 112 may be a groove formed into the outer surface
of the main body and extending about its length or
circumference.
[0085] The groove 112 has a rectangular configuration as best seen
in FIG. 3C including a bottom portion 113 and a pair of sidewalls
115 oriented substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion 113.
The sidewalls 115 are substantially parallel to one another and
extend between the bottom portion 113 and the outer surface 103 of
the main body 102.
[0086] At least one hair accessory 104, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 102 and
arranged to be secured by the at least one retaining feature 112.
The main body 102 retains the at least one hair accessory 104
therewith and spans the periphery of the main body 102 and the
clearance 106. The semi-rigid or rigid body 102 resists the
elasticity of the hair accessory 104.
[0087] As depicted in FIGS. 3D and 3E, at least one of the first
and second opposing end portions 108, 110 defines a troughed
portion 124, which encloses an end of the at least one retaining
feature 112. The first and second opposing end portions 108, 110
may each define the troughed portion 124 enclosing the at least one
retaining feature 112. The groove may terminate short of the first
and second end portions 108, 110, and the at least one hair
accessory 104 is arranged to extend over an end 126 of first and
second end portions 108, 110. The first and second end portions
108, 110 may suspend the at least one hair accessory 104 at a
height above the at least one retaining feature 112 across the
clearance 106.
[0088] The main body 102 may define upper and lower portions 114,
116 having decorative features. The upper and lower portions may
have a non-uniform profile or contour 122 bordering at least one
retaining feature 112. Alternatively, the decorative feature may
result in a highly streamlined profile comprising substantially
thinned upper and lower portions and a narrow groove forming the at
least one retaining feature. At least one of the upper and lower
portions may include attractive features secured thereon such as
diamonds, colored beads, crystals, and other known types, and which
do not interfere with the at least one retaining feature 112 and do
not impede removal of the at least one hair accessory 104.
[0089] FIGS. 5 and 7 illustrate the first end portion 108 enclosing
the at least one retaining feature in the form of a groove 112, and
the second end portion 110 may open to the groove and direct the
hair accessory 104 to the first end portion 108. The end portion
110 may have ends tapering toward the groove 112 to better retain
the hair accessory relative to the main body 102.
[0090] FIGS. 5-7 show how the hair accessory 104 can easily move
off the main body 102 by intentional action of the user. A method
for removing the hair accessory 104 involves pulling the hair
accessory 104 from the clearance and disengaging the hair accessory
104 from the groove 112 to pull the hair accessory 104 away from
the main body 102. The hair accessory 104 may be eventually pulled
over the hand to use for the user's hair.
[0091] FIGS. 8A-8C disclose another embodiment of versatile jewelry
200 having a main body 202 and a hair accessory 204 in an elastic
band. The main body 202 defines an inner surface 228 arranged to be
worn against a wrist. A clearance 206 is defined between first and
second end portions 208, 210, and at least one retaining feature
212 in the form of a groove opens at the end portions 208, 210.
First or upper and second or lower portions 214, 216 subtend the
groove 212.
[0092] FIG. 8C particularly shows how the end portions 208, 210 may
include a ledge 218 protruding from the end portions 208, 210 to
ease transition of the hair accessory 204 across the clearance
206.
[0093] FIGS. 9A-9C disclose another embodiment of the versatile
jewelry 300 having a main body 302 and a hair accessory 304 in the
form of first and second elastic band 304, 305 within the at least
one retaining feature 312. The main body 302 defines an inner
surface 328 arranged to be worn against a wrist. A clearance 306 is
defined between first and second end portions 308, 310, and at
least one retaining feature 312. First or upper and second or lower
portions 314, 316 subtend the groove 312, which is substantially
widened over the previous embodiments to permit a single or
multiple hair accessories 304.
[0094] In this embodiment, a sleeve 317 formed by first and second
protruding portions 318, 319 is defined as radially extending
outwardly from the main body 302 and over the groove 312. A gap or
opening 320 is defined between the first and second protruding
portions 318, 319. The gap 320 is configured and dimensioned to
enable a user to place a hair accessory to slip therethrough and
may be sized so the hair accessory must be thinned or lengthened to
pass through the gap 320.
[0095] The gap 320 may form a non-linear shape according to how and
where the first and second protruding portions 318, 319 face one
another. The non-linear shape may prevent a hair accessory from
sliding or slipping past the gap, and may be arranged in a
decorative pattern. The protruding portions 318, 319 may include
decorative features 322 such as designs or lettering (as in one's
name, a company name or quote). The decorative features may be
customized and vary from bracelet to bracelet.
[0096] FIG. 10 depicts a plurality of plastic main bodies 400, 404,
408, 412, 416 and 414, which may be coordinated with colors of
different hair accessories 402, 406, 410, 414, 418. These main
bodies may be constructed from a resilient plastic permitting
expansion of the main body to be inserted onto a wrist and
reversion to a predetermined shape once installed on a wrist in a
relaxed configuration. Alternatively, the main body may be
tensioned on a wrist should the wrist opening sized smaller than
the wrist upon which it is worn. It may also be resilient to
accommodate the hair accessories in the form of a band, which may
compress the main body.
[0097] FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a versatile jewelry 500 in
which the main body 502 has a circumferential profile and a
retaining feature 504 is formed by the main body 502. A clasp 506
is provided for opening the main body 502 and the retaining feature
504 is arranged to extend underneath the clasp 506 and can
accommodate a hair accessory as described. The main body 502 may
bear many the features described in connection with the preceding
embodiments.
[0098] FIG. 12 describes another versatile jewelry 600 including a
main body 602 and a retaining feature 604 formed by the main body
602. The main body 602 includes a sizing device with various slots
608 and tabs 606 adapted to vary and lock the size of the main body
602 on a user's wrist. The main body 602 may include a display 610
such as a clock, notification, etc.
[0099] Any of the preceding embodiments may be incorporated into a
standard activity monitor bracelet such as Nike Fuelband, Jawbone
Up and Fitbit Force or Flex.
[0100] FIGS. 13A-13E describe another versatile jewelry 700
comprising a bracelet 700. It will be appreciated that the bracelet
700 can include any of the features described above. As seen in
FIG. 13A, the bracelet 700 includes a semi-rigid or rigid main body
702 and at least one retaining feature 704 defined about the outer
periphery thereof between first or upper and the second or lower
portions 714, 716. The main body 702 can define first and second
opposing end portions 708, 710 with a clearance 706 therebetween to
form an open cuff design. The clearance 706 allows for the bracelet
700 to be easily donned while ensuring that it stays well on the
arm during various activities. The first and second opposing end
portions 708, 710 may each include a radius 711, helping to
increase the comfort and safety of the bracelet 700.
[0101] The main body 702 can have any suitable shape but is shown
having a semi-elliptical or oval profile as seen in FIG. 13B. The
main body 702 defines an inner surface 728 arranged to be worn
against the wrist. The inner surface 728 can have an anatomical
shape arranged to more natural fit over a user's wrist.
[0102] At least one hair accessory 704, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 702 and
arranged to be secured by the at least one retaining feature 712.
The main body 702 retains the hair accessory 704 therewith and the
hair accessory 704 spans the periphery of the main body 702 and the
clearance 706.
[0103] Similar to the previously described embodiments, the
semi-rigid or rigid main body 702 is arranged to resist the
elasticity of the at least one hair accessory 704 without
deformation. For instance, the main body 702 can substantially
maintain its shape under the force created by the tension of the
hair accessory 704 and lift the at least one hair accessory 704 off
the user's wrist or allow it to only apply a minimal or desirable
amount of pressure in certain areas wherein the bracelet 700 does
not cover the arm. The main body 702 also provides the advantage of
distributing from the force created by the tension of the hair
accessory 704, partially or completely around the wrist.
[0104] The main body 702 can have a malleable or resilient
configuration, allowing it to be formed or shaped to accommodate an
individual's wrist. For instance, the main body 702 can be formed
of a metal material shapeable or pliable without breaking or
cracking to fit the user's wrist (e.g., gold, platinum, copper,
aluminum, etc.) while also having a rigidity arranged to maintain
the shape of the main body 702 under the force of the hair
accessory 704 and to lift the hair accessory 704 off the user's
wrist.
[0105] In other embodiments, the main body 702 can be formed of a
resin (e.g., plastic) and/or metal material having a resilient
configuration such that the opposing end portions 708, 710 can be
moved or flexed apart to help position the main body 702 on the
user's wrist while also having a rigidity arranged to maintain the
shape of the main body 702 under the force of the hair accessory
704. As such, the bracelet 700 can protect the user's arm or wrist
from poor blood circulation, pressure marks, and provide a carrier
to maintain hair accessories.
[0106] The at least one retaining feature 712 may be a groove 712
formed into the outer surface 703 of the main body 702 and
extending about its length or circumference. The groove 712 is
shown in FIG. 13C having a substantially quadrilateral or
rectangular cross section but may have any shape suitable to retain
the hair accessory therein.
[0107] The groove 712 can define a pair of flat upstanding
sidewalls 718 and a flat bottom portion 720 extending between the
sidewalls 718. It should be appreciated that the groove 712 can
define a chamfer or fillet between the bottom portion 720 and the
sidewalls 718 and/or between the sidewalls 718 and the outer
surface 703 of the main body 702.
[0108] The flatness of the bottom portion 720 along its cross
section results in the compressive pressure from the hair accessory
704 being substantially perpendicular to the bottom of the groove
712. This in effect maintains the force of the hair accessory 704
substantially normal to the bottom of the groove 712, which, in
turn, reduces the likelihood of the hair accessory 704 forcing or
pulling itself toward one side or the other within the groove 712,
helping to keep the hair accessory 704 in the groove 712 and on the
bracelet 700. The groove 712 defines a width Gw between the
sidewalls 718 to ensure that the hair accessory 704 does not slip
from the bracelet 700 and therefore proper distribution of pressure
from the hair accessory is ensured. The width Gw can be greater
than a width of the hair accessory 704. The width Gw can be
constant. The width Gw can vary. Optionally, the transition between
the bottom portion 720 and the sidewalls 718 can define a
radius.
[0109] Referring to FIGS. 13C-13E, the groove 712 has a depth Gd
defined between the bottom portion 720 and the outer surface 703 of
the main body 702. The magnitude of the depth Gd relative to the
width Gw can be selected to help retain the hair accessory 704 in
the groove 712. The depth Gd can be greater than about 0.8, about
1, about 1.2, about 1.4, about 1.6, about 1.8, or about 2 times the
width Gw of the groove 712. In other embodiments, the depth Gd
relative to the width Gw of the groove 712 can be greater or
smaller.
[0110] The depth Gd of the groove 712 can generally correspond to a
height of the sidewalls 718. In an embodiment, the depth Gd of the
groove 712 can be selected to reduce the likelihood of the hair
accessory 704 jumping or moving along the sidewalls 718 and out of
the groove 712. In an embodiment, the depth Gd of the groove 712
can be greater than about 0.3, about 0.5, about 0.7, about 0.9,
about 1, about 1.2, about 1.4, about 1.6, about 1.8, or about 2
times the cross-sectional height of a hair accessory disposed in
the groove 712. This provides a greater contact surface between the
sidewalls 718 and the hair accessory while the hair accessory is
disposed in the groove 712, helping to retain the hair accessory
within the groove. In other embodiments, the depth Gd can be
greater or smaller relative to the cross-sectional height of the
hair accessory.
[0111] Furthermore, the sidewalls 718 can be substantially
perpendicular to the bottom portion 720. This allows the sidewalls
718 to provide greater resistance to movement of the hair accessory
out of the groove 712 as sidewalls 718 are more difficult for the
hair accessory to climb or move along than a sloped or curving
sidewall.
[0112] According to a variation, the groove 712 has a varying depth
Gd. As seen in FIG. 13E, the depth Gd of the groove 712 can
increase from the ends portions 708, 710 toward a middle portion
713 of the groove 712 generally opposite the clearance 706t. The
depth Gd of the groove 712 at or near the middle portion 713 can be
greater than about 1.2, about 1.4, about 1.6, about 1.8, about 2,
or about 2.2 times the depth Gd of the groove 712 at or near the
end portions 708, 710. In other embodiments, the depth Gd of the
groove 712 at or near the middle portion 7d13 can be greater or
smaller relative to the depth Gd of the groove 712 at or near the
end portions 708, 710.
[0113] The groove 712 can define a greater depth Gd where the
radius of curvature of the groove 712 and the main body 702 is
larger, across the top of the wrist. This advantageously can help
hide more of the hair accessory in the groove 712 where it is most
visible to a casual observer, providing an aesthetically pleasing
look. It can also more securely retain the hair accessory in the
groove 712 by locating the hair accessory deeper in the groove 712,
reducing the likelihood of inadvertent displacement by bumping,
rubbing, or the like. In other embodiments, the maximum depth Gd of
the groove 712 can be defined toward the end portions 708, 710 or
along the sides of the main body 702.
[0114] In other embodiments, the retaining feature can comprise
magnets inserted into bracelet. For instance, FIG. 14 shows an
embodiment of a versatile jewelry 800 comprising a bracelet
including a main body 802 and a retaining feature 804. Similar to
other embodiments, the main body 802 can define first and second
opposing ends 808, 810 with a clearance 806 therebetween to form an
open cuff design. The clearance 806 is sized and configured to
receive the wrist when the main body 802 is donned on the wrist.
The main body 802 defines an inner surface 816 arranged to be worn
against the wrist, an outer surface 818 opposite the inner surface
816, and side surfaces 820 extending between the inner and outer
surfaces 816, 818.
[0115] The retaining feature 804 can comprise a groove 812 formed
in the outer surface 818 or any other surface of the main body 802
and extending about its length or circumference. For instance, the
groove 812 can be formed in a side surface 820 of the main body
802. This advantageously helps conceal a hair accessory and allows
the outer surface 818 to be used only for decorative purposes.
[0116] The groove 812 can have a quadrilateral cross section or any
other suitable cross-sectional shape to retain a hair accessory,
such as a hair tie or elastic band, therein. For instance, the
groove 812 can have a triangular or concave cross-section. The hair
accessory can have an elliptical, circular, or quadrilateral
cross-sectional shape.
[0117] The retaining feature 804 can comprise one or more permanent
magnets 814 and/or ferromagnetic material. The permanent magnets
814 can be inserted in corresponding holes defined in the side
surfaces 820 of the main body 802. The permanent magnets 814 can be
embedded in the main body 802. The permanent magnets 184 may be
attached to the main body 802 within the groove 812. The permanent
magnets 814 may be located in the main body 802 below the groove
812. The permanent magnets 814 may be circumferentially distributed
on the main body 802.
[0118] According to a variation, a hair accessory 816 can include
one or more corresponding permanent magnets and/or ferromagnetic
material. In use, the hair accessory 816 is held in the groove 812
by magnetic attraction between the main body 802 and the hair
accessory 816 when the hair accessory 816 is disposed in the groove
812. This beneficially increases the connecting forces between the
main body 802 and the hair accessory 816, improving the securement
of the hair accessory 816 on the main body 802.
[0119] Further, the magnetic force or attraction between the hair
accessory 816 and the main body 802 can be customized. For
instance, the magnetic strength of the permanent magnets 814 can be
selected to increase the magnetic attraction between the hair tie
and the main body 802 for higher levels of activity such as sports
or dancing.
[0120] Optionally, the groove 812 may be omitted. For instance, the
one or more permanent magnets 814 and/or the ferromagnetic material
may be included in the main body 802 and the magnetic force or
attraction between the hair accessory 816 and the main body 802 can
secure the hair accessory 816 against an outer surface 818 or a
side surface 820 of the main body 802. In another variation, the
main body 802 may include one or more ferromagnetic materials and
the hair accessory 816 may include permanent magnets and/or
magnetic materials. In other embodiments, the permanent magnets 814
and/or ferromagnetic material can be arranged to hold two or more
bracelets together. This advantageously allows multiple bracelets
to stack together.
[0121] In other embodiments, the retaining feature can comprise one
or several hooks on the bracelet. For example, FIG. 15 shows an
embodiment of a versatile jewelry 900 comprising a bracelet
including a main body 902 and a retaining feature 904. The main
body 902 can define first and second opposing ends 908, 910 with a
clearance 906 therebetween to form an open cuff design. The
clearance 906 can be sized and configured to receive the wrist when
the main body 902 is donned on the wrist. The main body 902 defines
an inner surface 916 arranged to be worn against the wrist, an
outer surface 918 opposite the inner surface 916, and side surfaces
920 extending between the inner and outer surfaces 916, 918. A
width of the main body 902 is defined between the side surfaces 920
and a depth of the main body 902 is defined between the inner and
outer surfaces 916, 918. The main body 902 can have a rigid or
semi-rigid configuration arranged to resist the elasticity of at
least one hair accessory 922, such as a hair tie or elastic band,
without deformation.
[0122] In the illustrated embodiment, the depth of the main body
902 is relatively smaller than the width of the main body 902. For
instance, the depth of the main body 902 be between about 0.1 and
about 0.6, or about 0.2 and about 0.4 times the width of the main
body 902. This allows the bracelet 800 to be low profile by sitting
close to the wrist.
[0123] The retaining feature 904 can comprise a plurality of hook
members 914 defined on the main body 902. In use, the hair
accessory 922 can be fitted on the hook members 914 such that
multiple lengths of the hair accessory 922 spans the clearance 906
and the hook members 914 secure the hair accessory 922 on the main
body 902. The hair accessory 922 does not span the periphery of the
main body 902 opposite the clearance 906, advantageously lowering
the overall profile the bracelet 900. Moreover, the tension of the
hair accessory 922 forces or tightens the hair accessory 922
against and/or around the hook members 914, reducing the likelihood
of inadvertent displacement of the hair accessory 922 from the hook
members 914 by bumping, rubbing, or the like.
[0124] In an embodiment, first cutouts 924 in the side surfaces 920
define a first narrowed portion 926 of the main body 902 and a hook
part 928 of the hook member 914 extending away from the opposing
ends 908, 910. The first and cutouts 924 can have irregular and/or
regular geometric shape. Second upper and lower cutouts 930 in the
side surfaces 920 define a second narrowed portion 932 and an
angled or curved surface 934 on the hook member 914 opposite the
hook part 928. The width of the second narrowed portion 932 is
greater than the width of the first narrowed portion 926.
[0125] According to a variation, the retaining feature 904 can
comprise a groove 936 formed in the outer surface 918 between the
second narrowed portion 932 and one of the opposing ends 908, 910.
The groove 936 advantageously directs the hair accessory 922 across
and the clearance 906 between the opposing ends 908, 910. Further,
the groove 936 beneficially helps limit the hair accessory 922 from
sliding or slipping along the outer surface 918 of the main body
902 toward the side surfaces 920 between the second narrowed
portion 932 and the opposing ends 908, 910.
[0126] The groove 936 can have a constant width or a varying width.
For instance, an end portion of the groove 936 toward the hook
members 914 can be widened or define a curvature or radii 938 to
facilitate insertion of the hair accessory 922 in the groove 936. A
depth of the groove 936 between the outer surface 918 and a bottom
of the groove 936 can be constant or can vary. For instance, a
length of the groove 936 toward the end 908 or 910 can have a depth
that tapers toward the end. The varying depth can be defined by
angled or curved part of the outer surface 918 extending toward the
inner surface 916 and one of the ends 908, 910.
[0127] In use, the hair accessory 922 is configured as a continuous
loop and one end of the hair accessory 922 is positioned across the
outer surface 918 on the first narrowed portion 926 such that a
first length 922A of the hair accessory 922 passes between the hook
part 928 and the first narrowed portion 932 on one side of the
first narrowed portion 926 and a second length 922B of the hair
accessory 922 passes between the hook part 928 and the first
narrowed portion 932 on the opposite side of the first narrowed
portion 926 opposite the first length 922A.
[0128] From there, the first and second lengths 922A, 922B extend
along the inner surface 916 in a direction toward the opposing ends
908, 910, over the inclined or curved surfaces 934, and back onto
the outer surface 918 across the second narrowed portion 932. The
radii 938 then directs both the first and second lengths 922A, 922B
of the hair accessory 922 on the outer surface 918 together and
through the groove 936, which, in turn, directs the first and
second lengths 922A, 922B across the clearance 906 toward and
through the groove 936 defined in the opposing end 910.
[0129] From the groove 936 on the opposing end 910, the first and
second lengths 922A, 922B of the hair accessory 922 run along the
radii 938 formed on the outer surface 918, diverging from one
another across the angled or curved surfaces 934 and back onto the
inner surface 916. From the inner surface 916, the first and second
lengths 922A, 922B pass between the hook parts 928 and the first
narrowed portion 926, and back across the outer surface 918, where
they connect to form an opposite end of the hair accessory 922.
[0130] The hair accessory 922 can thus be fitted on the hook
members 914 such that multiple lengths of the hair accessory 922
spans the clearance 906, and the hook members 914 in combination
the grooves 936 secure the hair accessory 922 on the main body 902.
The tension of the hair accessory 922 forces or tightens the hair
accessory 922 against and/or around the hook members 914. Further,
the tension in the hair accessory 922 forces the hair accessory 922
against the bottom of the grooves 936, reducing the likelihood of
inadvertent displacement of the hair accessory 922 from the main
body 902.
[0131] FIGS. 16A-16C shows a versatile jewelry 1000 comprising a
bracelet including a main body 1002 and at least one retaining
feature 1004 according to yet another embodiment. The main body
1002 can define first and second opposing ends 1008, 1010 with a
clearance 1006 therebetween to form an open cuff design. The
clearance 1006 is sized and configured to receive the wrist when
the main body 1002 is donned on the wrist. The main body 1002
defines an inner surface 1016 arranged to be worn against the
wrist, an outer surface 1018 opposite the inner surface 1016, and
side surfaces 1020 extending between the inner and outer surfaces
1016, 1018. In other embodiments, the main body 1002 can be
arranged as a fully circumferential cuff.
[0132] At least one hair accessory, such as a hair tie or elastic
band, is adapted to extend over the main body 1002 and arranged to
be secured by the at least one retaining feature 1004 on the main
body 1002. The at least one retaining feature 1004 can comprise a
plurality of attachment points 1022 on the main body 102.
[0133] The attachment points 1022 are shown included on the outer
surface 1018 however in other embodiments the attachment points
1022 can be formed on one or more of the side surfaces 1020 or
inner surface 1016 of the main body 1002. The attachment points
1022 can comprise hook members having an elongate configuration
arranged to grab a hair accessory. The attachment points 1022 can
comprise hook members with a wide configuration arranged to form a
platform or contact surface that engages and holds a hair
accessory.
[0134] In an embodiment, the attachment points 1022 can include a
first pair of hook members 1024 extending radially outward from the
outer surface 108. The first hook members 1024 can be positioned
generally opposite the opposing ends 1008, 1010. The first hook
members 1024 can comprise post members, protrusions, and/or crook
members, angle members, or any other suitable member. It will be
appreciated that the attachment points or hook members can be on
the top outer surface or any other surface on the bracelet
1000.
[0135] Referring to FIGS. 16B and 16C, the at least one hair
accessory can comprise a hair tie 1026 arranged to be positioned or
loaded on the first hook members 1024 such that opposing portions
of the hair tie 1026 engage the first hook members 1024 and the
hair tie 1026 spans the distance between the first hook members
1024 on the outer surface 1018 opposite the clearance 1006. The
first hook members 1024 are spaced such that when the hair tie 1026
is positioned on the first hook members 1024 it is in tension. The
elasticity of the hair tie 1026 forces the hair tie 1026 against
the first hook members 1024, which are arranged to resist the
elasticity of the hair tie 1026. As such, the compressive force on
the first hook members 1022 from the hair tie 1026 helps secure the
hair tie 1026 against the rigid or semi-rigid hook members 1024.
Further, the main body 1002 lifts the hair tie 1026 off the user's
wrist and directs the hair tie 1026 between the first hook members
1024. The main body 1002 and first hook members 1024 also provides
the advantage of distributing from the force created by the tension
of the hair tie 1026.
[0136] In an embodiment, a method for removing the hair tie 1026
involves pulling the hair tie 1026 from the span between the first
hook members 1024 and disengaging the hair tie 1026 from the first
hook members 1024 to pull the hair tie 1026 away from the outer
surface 1018 of the main body 1002.
[0137] The first hook members 1024 have a height defined between
the outer surface 1018 of the main body 1002 and an end of the
first hook members 1024 radially spaced from the outer surface
1018. The height of the first hook members 1024 can be selected to
reduce the likelihood of the hair tie 1026 jumping or slipping
upward and off the hook members 1024. According to a variation, the
height of the first hook members 1022 can be greater than about
0.3, about 0.5, about 0.7, about 0.9, about 1, about 1.2, about
1.4, about 1.6, about 1.8, or about 2 times the cross-sectional
height of a hair tie on the outer surface 1018 of the main body
1002. This provides a greater contact surface between the first
hook members 1024 and the hair tie 1026, helping to retain the hair
tie 1026 on the main body 1002. In other embodiments, the height of
the first hook members 1024 can be greater or smaller relative to
the cross-sectional height of the hair tie 1026.
[0138] According to a variation, the attachment points 1022 can
include a second pair of hook members 1028 on the outer surface
1018 at or near the opposing ends 1008, 1010. The second hook
members 1028 can be arranged similar to the first hook members 1024
or can be different from the first hook members 1024. The first
hook members 1022 can comprise post members, protrusions, and/or
crook members, angle members, or any other suitable member.
[0139] The at least one hair accessory can comprise a second hair
tie 1030 can be positioned on the second hook members 1028 such
that opposing portions of the second hair tie 1030 engage the
second hook members 1028 and the second hair tie 130 spans the
clearance 1006. Similar to the first hook members 1024, the second
hook members 1028 can be spaced apart such that when the second
hair tie 1030 is positioned on the second hook members 1028 it is
in tension. The second hair tie 1030 spanning the clearance 1006 is
arranged to facilitate disengagement of the second hair tie 1030
from the second hook members 1028.
[0140] Further, the main body 1002 lifts the second hair tie 1030
off the user's wrist and directs the second hair tie 1030 between
the second hook members 1028. The main body 1002 and second hook
members 1028 also provides the advantage of distributing from the
force created by the tension of the second hair tie 1030.
[0141] In an embodiment, a method for removing the second hair tie
1030 involves pulling the second hair tie 1030 from the clearance
1006 and disengaging the second hair tie 1030 from the second hook
members 1028 to pull the hair tie 1030 away from the main body
1002. The second hair tie 1030 may be eventually pulled over the
hand to use for the user's hair.
[0142] It will be appreciated that one or more hair accessories or
one or more hair ties can be loaded on the attachment points 1022
in any suitable manner. For instance, a hair tie can be positioned
on one of the second hook members 1028 and one of the first hook
members 1024 such that the hair tie extends along the outer surface
1018 on a side of the main body 1002. In other embodiments, the
hook members can be arranged to retain a key or charms for
aesthetic purposes. In other embodiments, one or more of the hook
members can be located in a groove formed in the main body
1002.
[0143] As discussed above, embodiments of the versatile jewelry can
be configured as a closed cuff or a fully circumferential bracelet.
For instance, FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate a versatile jewelry 1100
comprising a closed cuff or a fully circumferential bracelet. The
bracelet 1100 can include a main body 1102 and at least one
retaining feature 1104 defined about the outer periphery thereof.
The main body 1102 can have any suitable shape but is shown having
an oval or elliptical profile. The main body 1110 defines an inner
surface 1116 arranged to be worn against the wrist and an outer
surface 1118 opposite the inner surface 1116.
[0144] At least one hair accessory 1112, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 1102 and
arranged to be secured by the at least one retaining feature 1104.
The hair accessory 1112 spans the periphery of the main body 1102
and the main body 1102 has a rigid or semi-rigid configuration
arranged to resist the elasticity of the hair accessory 1112.
[0145] The retaining feature 1104 comprises a groove 1114 formed in
the outer surface 1118 of the main body 1102 and extending about
all or some of its length of circumference. The groove 1114 can
have a substantially quadrilateral or rectangular cross section.
The groove 1114 can have a concave shape, a triangular shape, or
any other shape suitable to retain the hair accessory 1112 therein.
In the illustrated embodiment, the groove 1114 has a constant
depth. In other embodiments, the groove 114 can have a varying
depth.
[0146] At least one release mechanism or feature 1120 is arranged
to facilitate disengagement or removal of the hair accessory 1112
from the groove 1114. In the illustrated embodiment, the release
feature 1120 can comprise an actuator 1122, a push member 1124, and
a pin member 1126 connecting the actuator 1122 and the push member
1124 and extending into an opening in the main body 1102. The
actuator 1122 and the push member 1124 are pivotally connected to
the main body 1102 via the pin member 1126 and are arranged to
pivot or rotate together above the pin member 1126. The actuator
1122 is accessible from the outside of the main body 1102 and the
push member 1124 is positionable within the groove 1114. The
release feature 1120 is movable or rotatable between an original
position (shown in FIG. 17A) in which a free end of the push member
1124 is located at or below a bottom surface 1128 of the groove,
and a release position (shown in FIG. 17B) in which the free end of
the push member 1124 is located above the bottom surface 1128 of
the groove 1114. Optionally, the release feature 1120 can be biased
toward the original position. The actuator 1122 can comprise a
lever, a cam member button, or any other structure suitable to move
the release feature 1120 between the original and release
positions.
[0147] In use, when the release feature 1120 is in the original
position, the hair accessory 1112 can extend over the release
feature 1120 at or along the bottom surface 1128 of the groove
1114. This helps to maintain the hair accessory 1112 within the
groove 1114 by locating the hair accessory 1112 deep within the
groove 1114, reducing the likelihood of inadvertent displacement by
bumping, rubbing, or the like.
[0148] To disengage or remove the hair accessory 1112 from the
bracelet 1100, a user can rotate the actuator 1122 relative to the
main body 1102, which, in turn, rotates the push member 1124 within
the groove 1114, moving the release feature 1120 toward the release
position. This causes the free end of the push member 1124 to
engage and lift the hair accessory up and at least partially out of
the groove 1114 in the area of the release feature 1120,
advantageously facilitating disengagement or removal of the hair
accessory 1112 from the groove 1114. It should be appreciated that
the release feature 1120 is exemplary only and other release
features are possible.
[0149] FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry 1200 comprising a closed cuff or a fully
circumferential bracelet. The bracelet 1200 can include a main body
1202 and at least one retaining feature 1204 defined about the
outer periphery thereof. The main body 1202 can have any suitable
shape but is shown having an oval or elliptical profile. The main
body 1202 defines an inner surface 1216 arranged to be worn against
the wrist and an outer surface 1218 opposite the inner surface
1216. The inner surface 1216 can have an anatomical shape arranged
to more natural fit over a user's wrist.
[0150] The main body 1202 includes a lower section 1222 arranged to
be worn under the bottom of the user's wrist and an upper section
1224 arranged to be worn over the top of the wrist. The main body
1202 is sized and configured such that a user can pass the main
body 1202 over the hand and onto the wrist.
[0151] In the illustrated embodiment, a width of the main body 1202
defined between the inner and outer surfaces 1216, 1218 can be
greater along the upper section 1224 than the lower section 1222.
To reduce the likelihood of the main body 1202 rotating in a
disadvantageous way on the wrist, the thinner lower section 1222
can be arranged to have a same or similar weight as the thicker
upper section 1224.
[0152] At least one hair accessory 1212, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 1202 and
arranged to be secured by the at least one retaining feature 1204.
The hair accessory 1212 spans the periphery of the main body 1202
and the main body 1202 has a rigid or semi-rigid configuration
arranged to resist the elasticity of the hair accessory 1212.
[0153] The retaining feature 1204 comprises a groove 1214 formed in
the outer surface 1218 of the main body 1202 and extending about
all or some of its length or circumference. The groove 1214 can
have a substantially quadrilateral or rectangular cross section.
The groove 1214 can have a concave shape, a triangular shape, or
any other shape suitable to retain the hair accessory 1212
therein.
[0154] The groove 1214 has a bottom portion 1220 and defines a
depth Rd defined between the bottom portion 1220 and the outer
surface 1218 of the main body 1202. The magnitude of the depth Rd
relative to a cross-sectional height of the hair accessory 1212 can
be selected to help retain the hair accessory 1212 in the groove
1214. More particularly, the depth Rd of the groove 1214 can be
selected to reduce the likelihood of the hair accessory 1212
jumping or moving along sidewalls of the groove 1214 and out of the
groove 1214.
[0155] In the illustrated embodiment, the groove 1214 has a varying
depth Rd. The depth Rd of the groove 1214 can be arranged such that
the hair accessory 1212 is partially or fully covered or hidden
with the groove 1214 except for a short distance wherein the hair
accessory 1212 is completely exposed with minimal to no groove so
that a user can more easily grab the hair accessory 1212.
[0156] The depth Rd of the groove 1214 can increase from the lower
section 1222 toward the upper section 1224 over the top of the
wrist. This advantageously can help hide more of the hair accessory
1212 in the groove 1214 where it is most visible to a casual
observer, providing an aesthetically pleasing look. It can also
more securely retain the hair accessory 1212 in the groove 1214 by
locating the hair accessory 1212 deeper in the groove 1214,
reducing the likelihood of inadvertent displacement by bumping,
rubbing, or the like.
[0157] The variable depth Rd of the groove 1214 can also help
facilitate disengagement of the hair accessory 1212 from the groove
1214. For instance, the depth Rd of the groove 1214 along the lower
section 1222 can be zero, near-zero, or very minimal to provide a
user direct access to the hair accessory 1212. In an embodiment, a
method for removing the hair accessory 1212 involves pulling the
hair accessory 1212 from the lower section 1222 of the main body
1202 and disengaging the hair accessory 1212 from the groove 1214
to pull the hair accessory 1212 away from the outer surface 1218 of
the main body 1202.
[0158] FIGS. 19A and 19B show a versatile jewelry 1300 comprising a
closed cuff or a fully circumferential bracelet. The bracelet 1300
can be similar to the bracelet 1200 including a main body 1302 and
at least one retaining feature 1304 defined about the outer
periphery thereof. The main body 1302 defines an inner surface 1316
and an outer surface 1318 opposite the inner surface 1316.
[0159] At least one hair accessory 1312, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 1302 and
arranged to be secured by the at least one retaining feature 1304.
The main body 1302 retains the hair accessory therewith and the
hair accessory 1312 spans the periphery of the main body 1302. The
main body 1302 can have a rigid or semi-rigid configuration
arranged to resist the elasticity of the hair accessory 1312.
[0160] The at least one retaining feature 1304 may be a groove 1314
formed in the outer surface 1318 of the main body 1302. The groove
1314 can extend about a length or circumference of the main body
1302. The groove 1314 can have a rectangular cross-section, a
trapezoidal cross-section, a concave cross-section, a triangular
cross-section, and/or any other shape suitable to help secure the
hair accessory 1312 in the groove 1314.
[0161] As seen, the main body 1302 has a generally elliptical or
circular profile with a release feature 1324 comprising a release
segment 1326 extending between first and second ends or end
portions 1308, 1310. The segment 1326 at least in part defines a
clearance 1306 between the end portions 1308, 1310 and can bring
the main body 1302 inwards toward the wrist at a defined location
along a length of the main body 1302. The segment 1326 is shown
being concave but can have any suitable shape. The clearance 1306
formed by the segment 1326 advantageously provides a space or area
to allow fingers to grab the hair accessory 1312 and remove it from
the bracelet 1300, facilitating removal of the hair accessory 1312
from the bracelet 1300. The groove 1314 can extend along the
segment 1326. The grove can terminate short of the segment
1326.
[0162] According to a variation, the segment 1326 is arranged to
shift between a normal position, in which the segment 1326 is
convex and/or extends along the elliptical or circular profile of
the main body 1302, and an inward position, in which the segment
1326 is concave and/or extends radially inward below the outer
surface 1318 and/or inner surface 1316 of the main body 1302 (shown
in FIG. 19B).
[0163] According to a variation, the segment 1326 can be a release
spring mechanism arranged to resiliently move toward and lock in
the normal position. In an embodiment, the segment 1326 in the
normal position can force at least a portion of the hair accessory
1312 from the groove 1314. A user can push on the segment 1326 to
move the segment 1326 toward the normal position, which, in turn,
can pop or move the hair accessory 1312 out of at least a portion
of the groove 1314.
[0164] The location and/or the amount the main body 1302 flexes or
moves through the segment 1326 can be controlled by varying the
thickness of the main body 1302 and/or by changing the
cross-sectional area or shape of the main body 1302 in the segment
1326. For instance, a thickness of the main body 1302 through the
segment 1326 can be reduced to increase flexibility. It will be
appreciated that the main body 1302 can include one or more
segments.
[0165] In an embodiment, a method for removing the hair accessory
1312 involves moving the segment 1326 to the inward position and
pulling the hair accessory 1312 from the clearance 1306 and
disengaging the hair accessory 1312 from the groove 1314 to pull
the hair accessory 1312 away from the outer surface 1318 of the
main body 1302. While being donned and worn, the segment 1326 can
be moved into or biased toward the normal position, increasing ease
of donning and user comfort.
[0166] FIG. 20 illustrates yet another embodiment of a versatile
jewelry 1400 comprising a bracelet including a main body 1402 and a
retaining feature 1404. The main body 1402 can define first and
second opposing ends 1408, 1410 with a clearance 1406 therebetween
to form an open cuff design. The main body 1402 includes an inner
surface 1406 arranged to be worn against the wrist, and an outer
surface 1418 opposite the inner surface 1416.
[0167] At least one hair accessory 1412, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 1402 and
arranged to be secured by the at least one retaining feature 1404
on the main body 1402. The retaining feature 1404 can comprise a
groove 1414 formed in the outer surface 1418 or another surface of
the main body 1402. The hair accessory 1412 selectively spans a
circumference of the main body 1402 in the groove 1414 and the
clearance 1406. The groove 1414 can have any cross-sectional shape
suitable to help retain the hair accessory 1412 in the groove 1414.
The hair accessory 1412 spanning the clearance 1406 is arranged to
facilitate disengagement or removal of the hair accessory 1412 from
the groove 1414.
[0168] The clearance 1406 can have a variable width. For instance,
the main body 1402 can be segment into a first part 1420 and a
second part 1422. The first and second parts 1420, 1422 are
arranged to rotate around a pivot point 1424. The pivot point 1424
can be a hinge, a pin member, or any other suitable pivot
mechanism.
[0169] The main body 1402 is movable between an open position, in
which the ends 1408, 1410 rotate about the pivot point 1424 away
from each other to increase a width of the clearance 1406, and a
closed position, in which the ends 1408, 1410 rotate about the
pivot point 1424 toward each other from the open position to reduce
the width of the clearance 1406. In the open position, the width of
the clearance is sized and arranged to allow the wrist to pass
therethrough, facilitating donning of the bracelet 1400. In the
closed position, the width of the clearance 1406 is too small to
allow the wrist to pass therethrough, helping to maintain the
bracelet 1400 on the wrist while the bracelet 1400 is being
worn.
[0170] In addition, because the main body 1402 can move between the
open and closed positions, the overall profile of the bracelet 1400
in the closed position can be smaller than a full circumferential
bracelet because it does not need to accommodate the hand during
donning. In the closed position, it can also be smaller than other
open cuff bracelets because the clearance does not need to
accommodate the wrist during donning. This beneficially helps
reduce the likelihood of the hair accessory 1412 being overstretch,
losing its elasticity, or even breaking when being positioned in
the groove 1414.
[0171] As discussed above, the at least one retaining feature can
comprise an overlay or another structural feature arranged to
secure at least one hair accessory on the main body without a
groove or channel defined in the main body. The retaining feature
can comprise one or more ridges along the bracelet to ensure that
one or more bands do not move in place.
[0172] For instance, the at least one retaining feature can
comprise ridges or protruding portions defined as radially
extending outwardly from the main body. The protruding portions are
arranged to help ensure that one or more hair accessories or bands
are secured on the main body. The protruding portions can extend on
either side of the hair accessory to help prevent the hair
accessory from slipping off the main body and restricting
circulation of the wrist. The protruding portions can have any
suitable length. The protruding portions can have a long, medium,
and/or long length. One or more of the protruding portions can have
a length extending along the entire periphery of the main body or a
partial distance along the periphery.
[0173] FIGS. 21A-21C show an embodiment of a versatile jewelry 1500
comprising a bracelet including a main body 1502 and at least one
retaining feature 1504. The bracelet 1500 is configured as a closed
cuff or a fully circumferential bracelet. The main body 1502 can
have any suitable shape such as a rectangular shape but is shown
having an oval or elliptical shape. The main body 1502 defines an
inner surface 1516 arranged to be worn against the wrist and an
outer surface 1518 opposite the inner surface 1516.
[0174] At least one hair accessory 1512, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 1502 and
arranged to be secured by the retaining feature 1504. The hair
accessory 1512 spans the periphery of the main body 1502 and the
main body 1502 has a rigid or semi-rigid configuration arranged to
resist the elasticity of the hair accessory 1512.
[0175] The retaining feature 1504 comprises a pair of ridges or
protruding portions 1520 defined as radially extending outwardly
from the outer surface 1518 of the main body 1502. The protruding
portions 1520 can have any suitable length. In the illustrated
embodiments, the protruding portions 1520 extend along a length of
the outer surface 1518 arranged to be positioned over the top of
the wrist. The protruding portions 1520 define a channel 1522
therebetween arranged to receive the hair accessory 1512. The outer
surface 1518 forms the bottom of the channel 1522. The channel 1522
can have a quadrilateral cross section, a trapezoidal cross
section, a concave cross section, a triangular cross section, or
any other suitable shape to receive and secure the hair accessory
1512. The protruding portions 1520 can be generally normal to the
outer surface 1518. In other embodiments, the protruding portions
1520 can angled toward one another, helping to retain the hair
accessory 1512 between the walls 1520.
[0176] Embodiments of the versatile jewelry have been generally as
a bracelet however in other embodiments the versatile jewelry can
comprise a ring, necklace, and/or another type of accessory such as
a lipstick, hair brush, belt, purse, or wallet with a retaining
feature arranged to secure at least one hair accessory on the
versatile jewelry. For instance, FIGS. 22A-22D illustrate another
embodiment of a versatile jewelry 1600 comprising a ring including
a main body 1602 and at least one retaining feature 1604.
[0177] The main body 1602 defines an inner surface arranged to be
worn against a finger 1601 and an outer surface 1618 opposite the
inner surface. The main body 1602 can comprise a fully
circumferential bracelet. In other embodiments, the main body 1602
can define first and second opposing ends with a small clearance
therebetween. The main body 1602 can be formed from any suitable
material such as silver, gold, steel, plastic, rubber, leather, or
combinations thereof.
[0178] At least one hair accessory 1626, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 1602 and
arranged to be secured by the retaining feature 1604. The hair
accessory 1626 spans the periphery of the main body 1602 and the
main body 1602 can have a rigid or semi-rigid configuration
arranged to resist the elasticity of the hair accessory 1326.
[0179] The at least one retaining feature 1604 comprises a groove
1614 formed in the outer surface 1618 of the main body 1602. The
groove 1614 can extend about a length or circumference of the main
body 1602. The groove 1614 can have any suitable cross-section
shape to help secure the hair accessory 1612 in the groove 1614
such as a rectangular cross-section, a trapezoidal cross-section, a
concave cross-section, a triangular cross-section, or an irregular
geometric cross-section.
[0180] The groove 1614 can extend about the circumference of the
main body 1602 one or multiple times. For instance, the groove 1614
can include first and second segments 1614A, 1614B. On a bottom
side 1602A of the main body 1602, the first and second segments
1614A, 1614B can extend generally parallel to another. From the
bottom side 1602A, the segments 614A, 614B extend around to a top
side 1602B of the main body 1602 where they intersect forming a
saltire like shape. This arrangement effectively allows the hair
accessory 1626 to be looped multiple rounds around the main body
1602 in the groove 1614, which, in turn, tensions the hair
accessory 1626 on the main body 1602. The groove 1614 is described
having the above path but can have any suitable path. For instance,
the groove can spiral around the main body 1602 or can include
rings spaced along a height or width of the ring 1600.
[0181] FIG. 23 shows another embodiment of a versatile jewelry 1700
comprising a bracelet including a main body 1702 and a retaining
feature 1704. The main body 1702 defines an inner surface arranged
to be worn against the wrist, an outer surface 1718 opposite the
inner surface, a first side surface 1720A extending between the
inner and outer surfaces 1716, 1718, and a second side surface
1720B opposite the first side surface 1720A. The main body 1702 can
define first and second opposing ends with a clearance therebetween
to form an open cuff design. In other embodiments, the main body
1702 can comprise a fully circumferential bracelet.
[0182] At least one hair accessory 1726, such as a hair tie or
elastic band, is adapted to extend over the main body 1702 and
arranged to be secured by the at least one retaining feature 1704.
As seen, the retaining feature 1704 can comprise a plurality of
attachment points 1722 protruding radially from the outer surface
1718 of the main body 1702. The attachment points 1722 can be
configured similar to the attachment points previously described.
The attachment points 1722 can be positioned along a top, side,
and/or bottom region of the main body 1702.
[0183] The attachment points 1722 can be arranged in any suitable
pattern. For instance, the attachment points 1722 can be
distributed in a serpentine formation. In an embodiment, the hair
accessory 1726 has a continuous loop or hoop configuration.
[0184] In an embodiment, the attachment points 1722 can include a
first retaining element 1722A, a second retaining element 1722B, a
third retaining element 1722C, a fourth retaining element 1722D, a
fifth retaining element 1722E, and a sixth retaining element 1722F.
The hair accessory 1726 can be positioned or loaded on the first
retaining element 1722A such that two strands or lengths 1726A,
1726B of the hair accessory 1726 are oriented toward the first side
1720A of the main body 1702. The two lengths 1726A, 1726B engage
the second and third attachment points 1722B, 1722C on the first
side 1720A, and turn back toward the second side 1720B of the main
body 1702. From there, the two lengths 1726A, 1726B engage fourth
and fifth attachment points 1722D, 1722E on the second side 1720B,
turn back toward the first side 1720A, and wrap around a sixth
attachment points 1722F to a point where they come back
together.
[0185] The first retaining element 1722A and the sixth retaining
element 1722F are spaced such that when the hair accessory 1726 is
positioned on the attachment points 1722 it is in tension. By
threading or routing the hair accessory 1726 through the attachment
points 1722, the distance of the hair accessory 1726 extends is
longer, which, in turn, allows the hair accessory 1726 to be
tensioned over a shorter span between the first and sixth
attachment points 1722A and 1722F. This advantageously reduces the
footprint of the hair accessory 1726 on the main body 1702,
reducing the overall profile the bracelet 1700.
[0186] It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the
attachment points 1722 can be arranged in ornamental or letter
patterns. This beneficially can both reduce the footprint of the
hair accessory 1726 on the main body 1702 and provide a fashion
feature.
[0187] FIG. 24 describes another versatile jewelry embodiment
comprising a bracelet 1800. The bracelet 1800 can be similar to
other embodiments of the present disclosure including a main body
1802, at least one retaining feature 1804 defined about a periphery
of the main body 1802, and first and second opposing end portions
1808, 1810 with a clearance therebetween to form an open cuff
design. At least one hair accessory can be adapted to extend over
the main body 1802 and secured by the retaining feature 1804.
[0188] As seen, the main body 1802 defines one or more attachment
features comprising apertures 1830 arranged to allow one or more
items to be attached to or carried by the main body 1802 during
use. For instance, one or more charms 1832 can be attached to the
main body 1802 via ring members 1834 received in the apertures
1830. The charms 1832 can be included for aesthetic purposes or may
include medical or other important information.
[0189] The apertures 1830 are shown defined in a side surface 1836
of the main body 1802 but can be formed in the outer surface 1818,
the inner surface 1816, both sides surfaces 1836, or any other
suitable surface on the main body 1802. The apertures 1830 can
extend through one or two surfaces of the main body 1802. While two
charms 1830 are illustrated, in other embodiments, the bracelet
1800 can include one, three, four, or any other suitable number of
charms or other items. Further, while the ring members are
described, in other embodiments, the charms 1832 or other items can
be attached to the main body via pins or any other suitable
attachment means.
[0190] FIG. 25 describes yet another versatile jewelry embodiment
comprising a bracelet 1900. The bracelet 1900 can be similar to
other embodiments of the present disclosure including a main body
1902, at least one retaining feature 1904 defined about a periphery
of the main body 1902, and first and second end portions 1908, 1910
with a clearance therebetween to form an open cuff design. It will
be appreciated that the clearance can be sized to receive the wrist
when the main body 1902 is donned by the user.
[0191] At least one hair accessory can be adapted to extend over
the main body 1902 and secured by the retaining feature 1904. The
at least one retaining feature 1904 can be formed in the outer
surface of the main body 1902 or a side surface of the main body
1902.
[0192] As seen, the main body 1902 comprises a wire structure 1930
that can advantageously reduce the weight of the bracelet 1900
and/or provide improved ventilation to the user's wrist. In an
embodiment, the wire structure 1930 includes an upper wire member
1932 and a lower wire member 1934 attached to one another at the
end portions 1908, 1910. Each of the upper and lower wire members
1932, 1934 include side members 1932a, 1934a defining a gap
therebetween.
[0193] The wire members 1932, 1934 in combination with a plurality
of channel members 1936 define the retaining feature 1904
comprising a channel 1914 for receiving the at least one hair tie
accessory.
[0194] Similar to other embodiments, the wire structure 1930 can
have a rigidity arranged to resist the elasticity of the at least
one hair accessory without deformation. For instance, the wire
structure 1930 can substantially maintain its shape under the force
created by the tension in the hair accessory. Optionally, the wire
structure 1930 can have a malleable or resilient configuration,
allowing it to be formed or shaped to accommodate an individual's
wrist while also having a rigidity arranged to maintain the shape
of the wire structure 1930 under the force of the hair
accessory.
[0195] The channel members 1936 can include a pair of generally
upright supports 1942 extending between the upper and lower wire
members 1932, 1934 and a cross member 1944 extending between the
supports 1942. The channel members 1936 can be spaced along the
periphery or circumference of the main body 1902 and arranged to
lift the at least one hair accessory off the user's wrist or allow
it to only a minimal or desirable amount of pressure. The wire
structure 1930 can be made of metal, plastic, rubber, combinations
thereof, or any other suitable materials. In the illustrated
embodiment, one or more charms 1938 can be attached to one or more
of the wire members 1932, 1934 via loop or ring members 1940 as
shown.
[0196] Optionally, the channel members 1936 can be omitted. For
instance, FIG. 27 illustrates a bracelet 2000 having a main body
2002, at least one retaining feature 2004 defined about a periphery
of the main body 2002, and first and second end portions 2008, 2010
with a clearance therebetween to form an open cuff design. It will
be appreciated that the clearance can be sized to receive the wrist
when the main body 2002 is donned by the user. At least one hair
accessory can be adapted to extend over the main body 2002 and
secured by the retaining feature 2004.
[0197] Similar to the previous embodiment, the main body 2002
comprise a wire structure 2030 including an upper wire member 2032
and a lower wire member 2034. Each of the upper and lower wire
members 2032, 2034 include side members 2032a, 2034a defining a
transverse gap 2036 and a vertical gap 2038 therebetween. The wire
members 2032, 2034 define the retaining feature 2004 comprising a
channel 2014 for receiving the at least one hair accessory.
[0198] According a variation, the transverse gap 2036 defined
between the bottom side members 2034a is smaller than the
transverse gap 2036 defined between the upper side members 2032a
such that the bottom of the channel 2014 is narrower than the top
of the channel 2014. The bottom of the channel 2014 forms a support
surface to at least in part lift or hold the hair accessory off the
user's wrist.
[0199] The vertical gaps 2038 between the upper and lower wire
members 2032, 2034 can be sized to prevent the hair accessory from
passing between the wire members 2032, 2034 and jumping out of the
channel 2014. This arrangement also provides resistance to movement
of the hair accessory out of the channel 2014.
[0200] FIG. 27 illustrates yet another versatile jewelry embodiment
comprising a bracelet 2100. The bracelet 2100 can similar to other
embodiments including a main body 2102 and first and second end
portions 2108, 2110 with a clearance therebetween to form an open
cuff design. It will be appreciated that the clearance can be sized
to receive the wrist when the main body 2102 is donned by the
user.
[0201] The main body 2102 can be formed by a pair of tubular
members 2130 separated by a gap 2132. The tubular members 2130 are
attached to one another at the end portions 2108, 2110 via
connectors 2150. According to a variation, the gap 2132 can have a
width that increases from the end portions 2108, 2110 toward a
middle portion 2134 of the main body 2102 generally opposite the
clearance. This beneficially can be provide a wider support base
for a tray member described below. It also increases user comfort
by lowering the profile of the bracelet 2100 on the underside of
the wrist.
[0202] A tray member 2136 is attached to the top or outer surface
of the middle portion 2134. The tray member 2136 includes a bottom
2138 attached to the middle portion 2134 and a rim 2140 extending
upwardly from and around the bottom 2138. The tray member 2136 can
be arranged to carry jewels, a watch face, lip balm, beauty
products identification information, and/or any other suitable
item.
[0203] The radial outer surface of the rim 2140 defines a retaining
feature 2142 comprising a channel 2144 arranged to hold at least
one hair accessory 2146. The channel 2142 can include any of the
retaining features described herein. This advantageously provides a
convenient and comfortable manner to carry the hair accessory 2146
while preventing the hair accessory 2146 from exerting pressure
over the wrist.
[0204] FIGS. 28A and 28B describe yet another embodiment of a
versatile jewelry 2200. The versatile jewelry 2200 can include a
ring member 2202 and a necklace 2230 with an aesthetically please
look and at least one retaining feature for one or more hair
accessories.
[0205] The ring member 2202 is configured as a fully
circumferential member and defines at least one retaining feature
2204, an inner surface 2216, and an outer surface 2218 opposite the
inner surface 2216. At least one hair accessory 2212, such as a
hair tie or elastic band, is adapted to extend over the ring member
2202 and arranged to be secured by the retaining feature 2204. The
hair accessory 2212 can be removed from the retaining feature 2204
as needed. The hair accessory 2212 spans the periphery of the ring
member 2202 and the ring member 2202 has a rigid or semi-rigid
configuration arranged to resist the elasticity of the hair
accessory 2212.
[0206] The retaining feature 2204 comprises a groove or channel
2214 defined in the outer surface 2218. The groove 2214 is shown
defined in the outer surface 2218 but can be formed in one or more
side surfaces of the ring member 2202. Moreover, the groove 2214
can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. The groove 2214 can
have a constant or variable depth and the ring member 2202 can
include any of the features describe herein.
[0207] The necklace 2230 can comprise a jewelry chain adapted to be
worn around a user's neck. As seen, the ring member 2202 can be
attached or secured to the necklace 2230 such that the ring member
2202 can be worn as a pendant when desired.
[0208] In an embodiment, the ring member 2202 can be removably
attached to end portions of the necklace 2230 via retaining members
2232 connected to the necklace 2230. This beneficially provides an
aesthetically pleasing and comfortable manner to carry the hair
accessory 2212 when it is not in use. According to a variation, the
ring member 2202 can be detached and/or removed from the necklace
2230 as desired and the retaining members 2232 can be connected
together, providing an attractive piece of jewelry.
[0209] Not necessarily all such objects or advantages may be
achieved under any embodiment of the invention. Those skilled in
the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or
carried out to achieve or optimize one advantage or group of
advantages as taught without achieving other objects or advantages
as taught or suggested.
[0210] The skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of
various components from different embodiments described. Besides
the variations described herein, other known equivalents for each
feature can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this
art to construct a versatile jewelry under principles of the
present invention. For instance, the retaining feature can comprise
a width of the bracelet so the elastic band does not fall off the
bracelet, helping to ensure proper distribution from the elastic
band. In other embodiments, the versatile jewelry can comprise a
two rings, one on each finger where the hair accessory or band
crosses over two fingers. In other embodiments, the retaining
feature can comprise a circumferential groove or channel formed in
a side surface of the main body of the versatile jewelry. It will
also be appreciated that that the elastic band can have any
suitable cross-sectional shape.
[0211] Although this invention has been disclosed in certain
preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those
skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the
disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses
of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof.
It is intended that the present invention disclosed should not be
limited by the disclosed embodiments described above, but should be
determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
* * * * *