Method and Apparatus for the Attachment of Multiple Interchangeable Hair Extensions

Abstract

A hair extension apparatus and a method for attaching multiple interchangeable hair extensions to a user's head and hair. The hair extension apparatus has a hair extension base to which each of the interchangeable hair extensions is attached. Each of the interchangeable hair extensions is selectively engaged with the hair extension base, allowing extensions to be readily attached or detached. The hair extension base is divided into multiple mounting sections, allowing for the layering of the interchangeable hair extensions. A plurality of fastening clips secures the hair extension base to a user's natural hair, wherein each of the plurality of fastening clips can be configured between an open position and a closed position; a securing cord may also be used to further secure the hair extension base to the user's head.

Description

[0001] The current application claims a priority to the U.S. Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 62/309,120 filed on Mar. 16, 2016.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to hair extensions and methods of attachment thereof. In particular, the present invention relates to a means to attach one or more hair extension tracks to a base that may be mounted onto a wearers head and hair.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Artificial hair integrations or hair extensions are units of real or artificial hair which attach onto a person's head and hair. Such products have become a popular way to lengthen or add more volume to a person's hair. By attaching tracks of human or synthetic hair onto a person's natural hair, hair extensions provide a quick means to enhance a wearer's look. Common types of hair extensions are tape in, clip-on, and wefted. Tape in hair extensions stay on an individual's hair for a few weeks, allowing the wearer to brush, come, and wash their hair while wearing the extensions. Clip-on extensions are a less permanent means of attachment, as they utilize toupee clips or similar devices. Other methods do exist for the attachment of artificial hair integrations, however, they are limited in the sense that they are not adapted for the attachment of multiple hair styles and colors.

[0004] It is therefore an objective of the present invention to introduce a method and apparatus for the attachment of multiple interchangeable hair extensions. The present invention uses a base that attaches onto a wearers head and hair. One or more interchangeable hair extension tracks may be connected onto the base, allowing the hair extensions to be layered over each other, thus giving the wearer flexibility in both style and color. Unlike typical hair extension products, the base and hair extensions will be sold separately. This gives the consumer the option of choosing the type of hair style they want. The hair extension tracks may be attached to the base via hook and loop fastener or self-stick tape connection. Clip devices are attached the base with hair extensions, allowing the entire device to be mounted onto a user's current hair. A string or cord may also be used to secure the device in place on a user's head, however, it is not always necessary. Overall, the present invention is simple, easy to use, cost efficient, safe, and effective, providing users with a multitude of unexplored hair styles, while maintaining comfort and securement on the head.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the plurality of fastening clips being adhesively bonded to the hair extension base using a resin.

[0006] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the plurality of fastening clips, detailing the plurality of teeth, the plurality of sewing holes, and the plurality of adhesive holes.

[0007] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the extension mount of the hair extension being aligned with the second outer layer of the hair extension base.

[0008] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view thereof, wherein the second outer layer includes a first hook and loop fastening strip.

[0009] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view, wherein the hair extension has been secured to the hair extension base.

[0010] FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view showing the hair extension, a second hair extension, and a third hair extension being aligned with a first mounting section, a second mounting section, and a third mounting section, respectively, in order to be secured to the hair extension base.

[0011] FIG. 7 is a diagram depicting the plurality of base layers, wherein the plurality of base layers includes a first synthetic skin layer, a second synthetic skin layer, and a lace layer.

[0012] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the hair extension base, wherein the dividing indicator and the second dividing indicator separate the second outer layer into a first mounting section, a second mounting section, and a third mounting section.

[0013] FIG. 9 is a sectional view of the hair extension base, wherein the dividing indicator separates the second outer layer into a first mounting section and a second mounting section.

[0014] FIG. 10 is a diagram depicting the plurality of base layers, wherein the plurality of base layers includes a synthetic skin layer and a lace layer.

DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION

[0015] All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0016] The present invention is a hair extension apparatus and a method for attaching multiple interchangeable hair extensions to a user's head and hair. The hair extension apparatus comprises a plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2, a hair extension base 1, a plurality of fastening clips 3, and a securing cord 7. The hair extension base 1 is attached to the user's head and hair through the plurality of fastening clips 3. One or more of the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 is attached to the hair extension base 1. The method of attachment between the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 and the hair extension base 1 allows the one or more hair extensions to be layered over each other, creating a natural hair appearance.

[0017] Each of the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 is removable, allowing the user to easily change hairstyles without needing to replace the hair extension base 1. Typical hair extension products are sold as a single, thus requiring the user to purchase entirely new products and increasing the cost to the user. The hair extension apparatus of the present invention allows the user to minimize costs, while maximizing the number of hair styles accessible to the user, as well as increasing the efficiency with which hair extensions can be interchanged.

[0018] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the device is not limited in its application to the details of the components and arrangements as described or illustrated. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being utilized and carried out in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phrasing and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. As such, the present invention is primarily used as a beauty enhancement product which attaches onto a user's head and hair, however, the method and apparatus may be applied to many other settings, situations, and scenarios.

[0019] In reference to FIG. 1, the hair extension base 1 is a thin and flexible elongated member that comprises a plurality of base layers 10. In the preferred embodiment of the hair extension apparatus, the plurality of base layers 10 comprises a first synthetic skin layer 14, a second synthetic skin layer 15, and a lace layer 16, as depicted in FIG. 7. The lace layer 16 is adjacently connected to the first synthetic skin layer 14 and the second synthetic skin layer 15, wherein the lace layer 16 is positioned in between the first synthetic skin layer 14 and the second synthetic skin layer 15. Together, the first synthetic skin layer 14 and the second synthetic skin layer 15 provide a natural feel and look to the hair extension base 1, while the lace layer 16 provides a bonding surface 35. Preferably, the first synthetic skin layer 14 and the second synthetic skin layer 15 are adhesively boned to the lace layer 16; however, it is possible for alternative methods to be used to secure the plurality of base layers 10 together.

[0020] In the preferred embodiment, the first synthetic skin layer 14 provides a first outer layer 11 of the plurality of base layers 10, while the second synthetic skin layer 15 provides a second outer layer 12 of the plurality of base layers 10. In reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the plurality of fastening clips 3 is positioned along the first outer layer 11, while each of the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 is attached to the second outer layer 12. When the hair extension base 1 is worn by the user, the plurality of fastening clips 3 faces inwards, towards the user's head, wherein each of the plurality of fastening clips 3 is attached to the user's hair. Meanwhile, the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 faces outwards, away from the user's head, providing the stylistic look desired by the user.

[0021] In reference to FIG. 2, each of the plurality of fastening clips 3 comprises a plate 30, a plurality of teeth 31, a plurality of sewing holes 32, and a plurality of adhesive holes 33. For each of the plurality of fastening clips 3, the plurality of teeth 31 is connected along the plate 30. The plurality of teeth 31 is arranged in a parallel manner, protruding downwards and slightly outwards, away from the plate 30, functioning similar to comb teeth. Furthermore, for each of the plurality of fastening clips 3, the plate 30 is flexible, allowing the plurality of teeth 31 to be configured in either an open position or a closed position. Similar to a toupee clip, when the plate 30 is flexed in a first direction, the plurality of teeth 31 moves to the open position, wherein the plurality of teeth 31 is positioned away from the plate 30, allowing the user's hair to be positioned in between the plate 30 and the plurality of teeth 31. When the plate 30 is flexed in a second direction, opposite the first direction, the plurality of teeth 31 moves to the closed position, wherein the plurality of teeth 31 is positioned towards the plate 30, clamping the user's hair between the plate 30 and the plurality of teeth 31.

[0022] The plate 30 of each of the plurality of fastening clips 3 is connected to the hair extension base 1. More specifically, for each of the plurality of fastening clips 3, the plate 30 is adjacently connected to the first outer layer 11, as depicted in FIG. 1. Both the plurality of sewing holes 32 and the plurality of adhesive holes 33 provide a means for securing each of the plurality of fastening clips 3 to the hair extension base 1. The plurality of sewing holes 32 allows the plate 30 to be sewn onto the hair extension base 1, while the plurality of adhesive holes 33 assists in securing the plate 30 to the hair extension base 1 via an adhesive bond. The sewing method and the adhesive bond method may be used standalone or in conjunction with one another to secure the plate 30 to the hair extension base 1, for each of the plurality of fastening clips 3. Other means of connection may also be used to secure the plurality of fastening clips 3 to the hair extension base 1 in other embodiments of the present invention.

[0023] In reference to FIG. 2, for each of the plurality of fastening clips 3, the plurality of sewing holes 32 traverses through the plate 30, wherein the plurality of sewing holes 32 is perimetrically disposed about the plate 30. Each of the plurality of sewing holes 32 provides an opening through which a needle and thread may be passed in order to sew the plate 30 to the hair extension base 1. Meanwhile, the perimetric distribution of the plurality of sewing holes 32 ensures that the plate 30 is securely connected to the hair extension base 1 and remains positioned flush against the hair extension base 1.

[0024] In further reference to FIG. 2, similar to the plurality of sewing holes 32, the plurality of adhesive holes 33 traverses through the plate 30, for each of the plurality of fastening clips 3. The plurality of adhesive holes 33 is positioned about the top edge of the plate 30, in between the plurality of sewing holes 32. Each of the plurality of adhesive holes 33 delineates a bonding surface 35 that assists in securing the plate 30 to the first outer layer 11, when the plate 30 of each of the plurality of fastening clips 3 is adhesively bonded to the first outer layer 11. The bonding surface 35 is the inner edge of the plate 30 that is formed by each of the plurality of adhesive holes 33. When an adhesive is applied in between the plate 30 and the first outer layer 11, the adhesive fills each of the plurality of adhesive holes 33, wherein the adhesive adheres to the bonding surface 35 in addition to the back of the plate 30, thus further securing the plate 30 to the first outer layer 11. In one embodiment a synthetic resin is placed between each of the plurality of fastening clips 3 and the first outer layer 11, wherein the resin is then melted with heat in order to bond the plurality of fastening clips 3 to the hair extension base 1.

[0025] In reference to FIG. 3-5, each of the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 comprises an extension track 24, an extension mount 25, and a plurality of hair strands 26. The extension track 24 is an elongated member that is shaped to fit on a section of the hair extension base 1. The plurality of hair strands 26 is connected along the extension track 24, wherein the plurality of hair strands 26 is oriented and colored to achieve the stylistic look desired by the user. The extension mount 25 is connected along the extension track 24 opposite the plurality of hair strands 26, wherein the extension mount 25 is utilized to secure the extension track 24 to the second outer layer 12 of the hair extension base 1.

[0026] In reference to FIG. 4 and FIG. 8, in the preferred embodiment of the hair extension apparatus, a dividing indicator 51 and a second dividing indicator 52 are positioned along the second outer layer 12, wherein the dividing indicator 51 delineates a first mounting section 61 and a second mounting section 62, while the second dividing indicator 52 delineates the second mounting section 62 and a third mounting section 63; the second mounting section 62 being positioned in between the first mounting section 61 and the third mounting section 63. The dividing indicator 51 and the second dividing indicator 52 are parallel to each other and are distributed evenly across the second outer layer 12. In some embodiments, the dividing indicator 51 and/or the second dividing indicator 52 may be visible on the first outer layer 11, in addition to the second outer layer 12. The first mounting section 61, the second mounting section 62, and the third mounting section 63 provide three distinct portions of the hair extension base 1 to which a selected hair extension 21 can be attached.

[0027] When the dividing indicator 51 and the second dividing indicator 52 are provided a hair extension 21, a second hair extension 22, and a third hair extension 23 are selected from the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2. In reference to FIG. 6, the hair extension 21 is positioned along the first mounting section 61, the second hair extension 22 is positioned along the second mounting section 62, and the third hair extension 23 is positioned along the third mounting section 63. The extension mount 25 of each of the hair extension 21, the second hair extension 22, and the third hair extension 23 is selectively engaged with the second outer layer 12, wherein the hair extension 21, the second hair extension 22, and the third hair extension 23 are positioned opposite the plurality of fastening clips 3, about the plurality of base layers 10. In the preferred embodiment of the hair extension apparatus, the extension mount 25 of each of the hair extension 21, the second hair extension 22, and the third hair extension 23 is a double-sided adhesive strip. In this way, the hair extension 21, the second hair extension 22, and the third hair extension 23 can be easily attached to and detached from the hair extension base 1 in order to achieve the desired stylistic look.

[0028] In alternative embodiments, the dividing indicator 51 may not be utilized, allowing for the attachment of only a single hair extension 21. In other embodiments, only the dividing indicator 51 may be utilized as depicted in FIG. 9, wherein the second outer layer 12 is separated into the first mounting section 61 and the second mounting section 62, allowing for the attachment of two hair extensions. In yet other embodiments, one or more additional dividing indicators may be utilized, wherein the second outer layer 12 is divided into more than three mounting sections, allowing for the attachment of additional hair extensions. Preferably, the dividing indicator 51, the second dividing indicator 52, and the one or more additional dividing indicator 51s may be evenly distributed across the hair extension base 1; however, it is also possible for unequal distribution.

[0029] In reference to FIG. 1, the securing cord 7 is a string-like component, having a first terminal end and a second terminal end. The securing cord 7 is terminally connected to the hair extension base 1 by the first terminal end and the second terminal end. More specifically, the first terminal end and the second terminal end are positioned opposite each other along the hair extension base 1, being connected to opposite ends of the hair extension base 1. The securing cord 7 provides additional means of maintaining the position of the hair extension base 1 on the user's head. When the hair extension base 1 is attached to the user's hair via the plurality of fastening clips 3, the securing cord 7 is wrapped around the user's head and is positioned on or above the user's ears. In this way, the securing cord 7 assists with preventing the hair extension base 1 from unwantedly falling off of the user's head during.

[0030] In some embodiments, the securing cord 7 may not be included or may be made removable from the hair extension base 1. A first attachment mechanism is integrated with the first terminal end and a first end of the hair extension base 1, wherein the first attachment mechanism allows the first terminal end to easily connect to or disconnect from the hair extension base 1. Similarly, a second attachment mechanism is integrated with the second terminal end and a second end of the hair extension base 1, wherein the second attachment mechanism allows the second terminal end to easily connect to or disconnect from the hair extension base 1.

[0031] In reference to FIG. 10, in an alternative embodiment of the hair extension apparatus, the plurality of base layers 10 includes a synthetic skin layer 17 and the lace layer 16. The lace layer 16 is adjacently connected to the synthetic skin layer 17. Preferably, the synthetic skin layer 17 is adhesively boned to the lace layer 16; however, it is possible for alternative methods to be used to secure the plurality of base layers 10 together. The synthetic skin layer 17 provides the first outer layer 11, while the lace layer 16 provides the second outer layer 12. In this way, the plurality of fastening clips 3 is connected to the synthetic skin layer 17, while each of the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 is attached to the lace layer 16.

[0032] Furthermore, in the alternative embodiment of the hair extension apparatus, the second outer layer 12 includes a first hook and loop fastening strip 13, while the extension mount 25 of each of the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 is a second hook and loop fastening strip. The first hook and loop fastening strip 13 and the second hook and loop fastening strip provide opposite connecting portions of a hook and loop fastener. If the first hook and loop fastening strip 13 provides the hook portion, then the second hook and loop fastening strip provides the loop portion, and vice versa. The hook and loop fastener formed by the first hook and loop fastening strip 13 and the second hook and loop fastening strip allows each of the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 to be easily attached to or detached from the hair extension base 1. In other embodiments, alternative fastening mechanisms may be used to secure the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 to the hair extension base 1, such as snaps.

[0033] The following describes the method for attaching multiple interchangeable hair extensions to a user's head and hair: (1) One or more of the plurality of interchangeable hair extensions 2 is selected and attached to the hair extension base 1 via the extension mount 25. (2) The user's natural hair above the location where the hair extension base 1 will be mounted onto is lifted and pulled together, revealing the hair to which the hair extension base 1 will be attached. (3) The hair extension base 1 is held over and positioned around the user's head with the plurality of fastening clips 3 in the open position. (4) Each of the plurality of fastening clips 3 is then angled into the user's natural hair and flexed into the closed position. If the securing cord 7 is utilized, then the securing cord 7 is also positioned around the user's head. (5) The hair extension base 1 and the user's natural hair is then released and the plurality of hair strands 26 of each of the interchangeable hair extensions is blended with the user's natural hair. (6) If the securing cord 7 is used, a tail comb or similar device is then used to pull the user's natural hair around securing cord 7 to style the user's natural hair. (7) If the securing cord 7 is not utilized, then the securing cord 7 is cut off of the hair extension base 1.

[0034] Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.

Claims

1. A hair extension apparatus comprises: a hair extension comprising an extension track, an extension mount, and a plurality of hair strands; a hair extension base comprising a plurality of base layers; each of a plurality of fastening clips comprising a plate and a plurality of teeth; the plurality of teeth being connected along the plate, for each of the plurality of fastening clips; the plate being flexible in order to configure the plurality of teeth in an open position or a closed position, for each of the plurality of fastening clips; the plate of each of the plurality of fastening clips being adjacently connected to a first outer layer of the plurality of base layers; the plurality of hair strands being connected along the extension track; the extension mount being connected along the extension track opposite the plurality of hair strands; the extension mount being selectively engaged with a second outer layer of the plurality of base layers; and the hair extension being positioned opposite the plurality of fastening clips, about the plurality of base layers.

2. the hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprises: the plate of each of the plurality of fastening clips being adhesively bonded to the first outer layer.

3. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 2 comprises: each of the plurality of fastening clips further comprising a plurality of adhesive holes; and each of the plurality of adhesive holes traversing through the plate to delineate a bonding surface.

4. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprises: each of the plurality of fastening clips further comprising a plurality of sewing holes; the plurality of sewing holes traversing through the plate, for each of the plurality of fastening clips; and the plurality of sewing holes being perimetrically disposed about the plate, for each of the plurality of fastening clips.

5. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprises: the plurality of base layers comprising a first synthetic skin layer, a second synthetic skin layer, and a lace layer; the lace layer being adjacently connected to the first synthetic skin layer and the second synthetic skin layer; and the lace layer being positioned in between the first synthetic skin layer and the second synthetic skin layer.

6. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the lace layer is adhesively bonded to the first synthetic skin layer and the second synthetic skin layer.

7. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprises: the plurality of base layers comprising a synthetic skin layer and a lace layer; and the lace layer being adjacently connected to the synthetic skin layer.

8. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the lace layer is adhesively bonded to the synthetic skin layer.

9. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprises: a second hair extension being selectively engaged with the second outer layer; and the second hair extension being positioned adjacent to the hair extension.

10. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 9 comprises: a third hair extension being selectively engaged with the second outer layer; and the third hair extension being positioned adjacent to the hair extension opposite the second hair extension.

11. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprises: a dividing indicator being positioned along the second outer layer; and the dividing indicator delineating a first mounting section and a second mounting section.

12. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 11 comprises: a second dividing indicator being positioned along the second outer layer; the second dividing indicator delineating the second mounting section and a third mounting section; and the second mounting section being positioned in between the first mounting section and the third mounting section.

13. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the second dividing indicator is parallel with the dividing indicator.

14. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the dividing indicator and the second dividing indicator are distributed evenly across the second outer layer.

15. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the extension mount is a double-sided adhesive strip.

16. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprises: the second outer layer including a first hook and loop fastening strip; the extension mount being a second hook and loop fastening strip; and the extension mount being selectively engaged with the first hook and loop fastening strip.

17. The hair extension apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprises: a securing cord; and the securing cord being terminally connected to the hair extension base.