U.S. patent application number 15/957762 was filed with the patent office on 2018-10-25 for storage accessories with sliding keepsakes.
The applicant listed for this patent is Stella & Dot LLC. Invention is credited to Rahul GUPTA, Blythe Elizabeth HARRIS, Jessica HERRIN, Charlotte Valerie MACAULAY.
Application Number | 20180303214 15/957762 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 63852379 |
Filed Date | 2018-10-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180303214 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
HARRIS; Blythe Elizabeth ;
et al. |
October 25, 2018 |
STORAGE ACCESSORIES WITH SLIDING KEEPSAKES
Abstract
Storage accessories, such as handbags or wallets, are provided
having one or more keepsakes that may slide to on or off the
accessory substrate. The accessory substrate may be attached to a
body, strap, zipper, or any other portion of the storage accessory.
The keepsakes may have a decorative front side and a rear side that
may cause the keepsake to encircle the substrate. The rear side may
optionally have a greater length than the front side, which may
permit natural spacing between the front sides of adjacent
keepsakes.
Inventors: |
HARRIS; Blythe Elizabeth;
(Brisbane, CA) ; MACAULAY; Charlotte Valerie;
(Brisbane, CA) ; GUPTA; Rahul; (Brisbane, CA)
; HERRIN; Jessica; (Brisbane, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Stella & Dot LLC |
Brisbane |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
63852379 |
Appl. No.: |
15/957762 |
Filed: |
April 19, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62487407 |
Apr 19, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 13/08 20130101;
A45C 3/06 20130101; A45C 1/02 20130101; A45C 13/001 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45C 13/08 20060101
A45C013/08; A45C 13/00 20060101 A45C013/00; A45C 1/02 20060101
A45C001/02; A45C 3/06 20060101 A45C003/06 |
Claims
1. A storage accessory comprising: an accessory substrate having a
front face and a back face and attached to a storage accessory
body, the accessory substrate configured to transform between an
open configuration and a closed configuration; and at least one
keepsake configured to slide onto the accessory substrate, wherein
the at least one keepsake has a front side contacting the front
face of the accessory substrate and showing a decorative portion of
the keepsake, and a back side contacting the back face of the
substrate, wherein the accessory substrate permits the at least one
keepsake to slide onto or off of the accessory substrate when the
accessory substrate is in the open configuration, and does not
permit the at least one keepsake to slide onto or off of the
accessory substrate when the accessory substrate is in a closed
configuration.
2. The storage accessory of claim 1, wherein the accessory
substrate is removably attached to the storage accessory body at a
first end of the accessory substrate.
3. The storage accessory of claim 2, wherein the accessory
substrate is affixed to the storage accessory body at a second end
of the accessory substrate.
4. The storage accessory of claim 3, wherein the accessory
substrate is configured to rotate about the second end of the
accessory substrate.
5. The storage accessory of any one of claims 2-4, wherein the
accessory substrate comprises a fastening element at the first end
that is removably engageable with a fastener affixed to the storage
accessory body, wherein in the closed configuration of the
accessory substrate, the fastening element and the fastener are
engaged, and wherein in the open configuration of the accessory
substrate, the fastening element and the fastener are
disengaged.
6. The storage accessory of any one of claims 2-5, wherein the
fastening element and the fastener are engaged through a mechanism
selected from the group consisting of: hook and loop fastener,
buckle, loop, hook, clip, clasp, pin, button, snap-fit,
friction-fit, magnet, clamp, threaded features, twisting features,
and any combination thereof.
7. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the
accessory substrate comprises a first portion and a second portion,
and the first and second portions are removably engageable to one
another, wherein in the closed configuration of the accessory
substrate, the first and second portions are engaged, and wherein
in the open configuration of the accessory substrate, the first and
second portions are disengaged.
8. The storage accessory of claim 7, wherein the first and second
portions of the accessory substrate are engaged through a mechanism
selected from the group consisting of: hook and loop fastener,
buckle, loop, hook, clip, clasp, pin, button, snap-fit,
friction-fit, magnet, clamp, threaded features, twisting features,
and any combination thereof.
9. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the back
side overlaps with at least a portion of the front side.
10. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the
back side extends beyond a length of the front side.
11. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the
back side extends beyond a length of the front side on both sides
along the length of the front side.
12. The storage accessory of claim 11, wherein distances back side
extends beyond the front side on the both sides along the length of
the front side are substantially the same.
13. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the at
least one keepsake further comprises one or more side bars
extending between the first side and the back side.
14. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the
back side of the keepsake includes a cross bar extending along a
width of the keepsake at a first orientation and one or more side
or extension features extending along a length of the accessory
substrate at a second orientation that is different from the first
orientation.
15. The storage accessory of claim 14, wherein the one or more side
or extension features is perpendicular to the cross bar where the
one or more side or extension features intersect the cross bar on
the back side of the keepsake.
16. The storage accessory of claim 14 or 15, wherein the one or
more side or extension features extend beyond the length of the
front side.
17. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-16, wherein the
one or more side or extension features contact at least one of the
one or more side bars.
18. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-16, wherein at
least one of the cross bar extends beyond the length of the front
side.
19. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-18, wherein the
backside comprises a first cross bar and a second cross bar that
define an entire length of the back side.
20. The storage accessory of claim 19, wherein the first cross bar
or second cross bar contacts at least one of the one or more side
bars.
21. The storage accessory of claim 19 or 20, wherein the first
cross bar or second cross bar contacts at least one of the one or
more side or extension features.
22. The storage accessory of any one of claims 19-21, wherein the
first or second cross bar is connected with at least one of the one
or more side bars via one of the one or more side or extension
features.
23. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-22, wherein the
back side includes at least one hole completely encircled by at
least one of the cross bar and at least one of the one or more side
or extension features.
24. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-23, wherein at
least a portion of the one or more side or extension features is
curved.
25. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-24, wherein the
back side including the cross bar and the one or more side or
extension features is formed of a single integral piece.
26. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-25, wherein the
back side includes at least one hole surrounded by the cross bar
and the one or more side or extension features.
27. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-26, wherein at
least one of the cross bar is configured to be substantially flush
against the accessory substrate.
28. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-27, wherein the
back side of the keepsake comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
or more of the cross bar.
29. The storage accessory of any one of claims 14-28, wherein the
back side of the keepsake comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
or more of the side or extension features.
30. The storage accessory of any one of claims 13-29, wherein the
at least one keepsake comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or
more of the side bars.
31. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-30, wherein the
front side of the keepsake has a substantially flat inner surface
and wherein the back side of the keepsake has a substantially flat
inner surface.
32. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-31, wherein the
front side and the back side are substantially planar along an
entire length of the front side and an entire length of the back
side, and wherein, the front side and the back side are
substantially parallel.
33. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-32, wherein the
front side of the keepsake or the back side of the keepsake has an
inner surface that includes curves, bumps, or grooves.
34. The storage accessory of claim 33, wherein the curves, bumps,
or grooves prevent sliding of the keepsake in the absence of an
external force.
35. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-34, wherein the
back side is configured to be substantially flush against the
accessory substrate.
36. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-35, wherein the
keepsake is a locket comprising a base portion and a cover portion
movable relative to the base portion about a pivot.
37. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-36, wherein the
keepsake is made from silver, gold, brass, copper, platinum,
palladium, rhodium, titanium, steel, aluminum, nickel, iron, zinc,
any combination or alloy thereof; wood, diamond, ruby, emerald,
sapphire, onyx, opal, quartz, amethyst, jade, glass, crystal,
enamel, polymers, rubber; or any combination thereof.
38. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-37, wherein the
keepsake has a polygonal shape.
39. The storage accessory of claim 38, wherein the keepsake has the
polygonal shape selected from the group consisting of: circle,
ellipse, triangle, quadrilateral, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, and
octagon.
40. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-37, wherein the
keepsake has a shape of an object, a letter, or a number.
41. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-40, wherein the
accessory substrate is attached to a surface of the storage
accessory body that is substantially flat or curved.
42. The storage accessory of any one of claims 1-40, wherein the
accessory substrate is attached to a surface of the storage
accessory body that is rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible.
43. A storage accessory comprising: an accessory substrate having a
front face and a back face and attached to a storage accessory
body, the accessory substrate configured to transform between an
open configuration and a closed configuration; and a first keepsake
configured to slide onto the accessory substrate, wherein the first
keepsake has a first front side contacting the front face of the
accessory substrate and showing a decorative portion of the
keepsake, and a first back side contacting the back face of the
accessory substrate; and a second keepsake configured to slide onto
the accessory substrate, wherein the second keepsake has a second
front side contacting the front face of the accessory substrate and
showing a decorative portion of the keepsake, and a second back
side contacting the back face of the accessory substrate, wherein
the accessory substrate permits the first or second keepsake to
slide onto or off of the accessory substrate when the accessory
substrate is in the open configuration, and does not permit the
first or second keepsake to slide onto or off of the accessory
substrate when the accessory substrate is in a closed
configuration, and wherein the first and second keepsakes are
configured such that the first front side and the second front side
do not come into contact with one another when the first back side
comes into contact with the second back side.
44. A storage accessory comprising: an accessory substrate having a
front face and a back face and attached to a chain, strap, zipper,
or handle of the storage accessory, the accessory substrate
configured to transform between an open configuration and a closed
configuration; and at least one keepsake configured to slide onto
the accessory substrate, wherein the at least one keepsake has a
front side contacting the front face of the accessory substrate and
showing a decorative portion of the keepsake, and a back side
contacting the back face of the substrate, wherein the accessory
substrate permits the at least one keepsake to slide onto or off of
the accessory substrate when the accessory substrate is in the open
configuration, and does not permit the at least one keepsake to
slide onto or off of the accessory substrate when the accessory
substrate is in a closed configuration.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/487,407, filed Apr. 19, 2017, which application
is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Handbags and other storage accessories are used by users to
contain and/or carry items while also functioning as a decorative
accessory and indicating personalized style. In some instances,
handbags have had dangling charms that might attach to a handle of
the handbags and provide personalized decoration. However, in some
instances, a wearer may not want dangling charms due to personal
aesthetic choices, or interference or noise caused by the dangling
charms.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A need exists for storage accessories, such as handbags,
that are personalized and enable a wearer to select individualized
keepsakes without running into inconvenience caused by many
dangling charms. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to
provide storage accessories, such as handbags, where the keepsakes
may slide onto a portion of the storage accessory. For example, the
keepsakes may slide onto any storage accessory, such as a handbag
(e.g., tote, shopper, canteen, clutch, wristlet, hobo, cross-body,
envelope, messenger, satchel, bucket, box, bowler, quilted, duffel,
fold-over, saddlebag, kelly, sling, backpack, or baguette bag),
wallet (e.g., bi-fold, tri-fold, long-wallet, pocketbook, zip,
envelope, accordion, coin purse, money-bag, wristlet), toiletry
bag, camera bag, pet carrier bag, or phone case. The storage
accessory may be configured to store currency, payment cards,
toiletries, wallets, keys, electronics, or any other items. Any
description herein of a storage accessory will apply to any type of
storage accessory, and any description herein of any specific type
of storage accessory (e.g., handbag) may apply to any other type of
storage accessory (e.g., wallet). The keepsakes may have a front
side that shows the various decorations, and a backside that may
assist with keeping the keepsake on the storage accessory. The back
side may optionally have a greater length than the front side. This
may keep the keepsakes spaced apart when viewing the front
decorative sides of the keepsakes. Alternatively, the back and
front sides may have any size relative to one another.
[0004] Aspects of the invention are directed to a storage accessory
comprising: an accessory substrate having a front face and a back
face and attached to a storage accessory body, the accessory
substrate configured to transform between an open configuration and
a closed configuration; and at least one keepsake configured to
slide onto the accessory substrate, wherein the keepsake has a
front side contacting the front face of the accessory substrate and
showing a decorative portion of the keepsake, and a back side
contacting the back face of the substrate, wherein the accessory
substrate permits the at least one keepsake to slide onto or off of
the accessory substrate when the accessory substrate is in the open
configuration, and does not permit the at least one keepsake to
slide onto or off of the accessory substrate when the accessory
substrate is in a closed configuration.
[0005] In some embodiments, the back side overlaps with at least a
portion of the front side. In some embodiments, the back side
extends beyond a length of the front side. The accessory substrate
may be removably attached to the storage accessory body at a first
end of the accessory substrate. The accessory substrate may be
affixed to the storage accessory body at a second end of the
accessory substrate. The accessory substrate may be configured to
rotate about the second end of the accessory substrate. The
accessory substrate may comprise a fastening element at the first
end that is removably engageable with a fastener affixed to the
storage accessory body. In some embodiments, in the closed
configuration of the accessory substrate, the fastening element and
the fastener are engaged. In some embodiments, in the open
configuration of the accessory substrate, the fastening element and
the fastener are disengaged. The fastening element and the fastener
may be engaged through a mechanism selected from the group
consisting of: hook and loop fastener, buckle, loop, hook, clip,
clasp, pin, button, snap-fit, friction-fit, magnet, clamp, threaded
features, twisting features, and any combination thereof.
[0006] The accessory substrate may comprise a first portion and a
second portion, and the first and second portions are removably
engageable to one another. In some embodiments, in the closed
configuration of the accessory substrate, the first and second
portions are engaged. In some embodiments, in the open
configuration of the accessory substrate, the first and second
portions are disengaged. The first and second portions of the
accessory substrate may be engaged through a mechanism selected
from the group consisting of: hook and loop fastener, buckle, loop,
hook, clip, clasp, pin, button, snap-fit, friction-fit, magnet,
clamp, threaded features, twisting features, and any combination
thereof.
[0007] The back side may extend beyond a length of the front side
on both sides along the length of the front side. Distances back
side extends beyond the front side on the both sides along the
length of the front side may be substantially the same.
[0008] In some embodiments, the at least one keepsake further
comprises one or more side bars extending between the first side
and the back side. The back side of the keepsake may include a
cross bar extending along a width of the keepsake at a first
orientation and one or more side or extension features extending
along a length of the accessory substrate at a second orientation
that is different from the first orientation. The one or more side
or extension features may be perpendicular to the cross bar where
the one or more side or extension features intersect the cross bar
on the back side of the keepsake. The one or more side or extension
features may extend beyond the length of the front side. The one or
more side or extension features may contact at least one of the one
or more side bars. At least one of the cross bar may extend beyond
the length of the front side. The backside may comprise a first
cross bar and a second cross bar that define an entire length of
the back side. The first cross bar or second cross bar may contact
at least one of the one or more side bars. The first cross bar or
second cross bar may contact at least one of the one or more side
or extension features. The first or second cross bar may be
connected with at least one of the one or more side bars via one of
the one or more side or extension features. The back side may
include at least one hole completely encircled by at least one of
the cross bar and at least one of the one or more side or extension
features. At least a portion of the one or more side or extension
features may be curved. The back side including the cross bar and
the one or more side or extension features may be formed of a
single integral piece. The back side may include at least one hole
surrounded by the cross bar and the one or more side or extension
features. At least one of the cross bar may be configured to be
substantially flush against the accessory substrate. The back side
of the keepsake may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more
of the cross bar. The back side of the keepsake may comprise 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more of the side or extension features.
The at least one keepsake may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,
10, or more of the side bars.
[0009] The front side of the keepsake may have a substantially flat
inner surface, and the back side of the keepsake may have a
substantially flat inner surface. The front side and the back side
may be substantially planar along an entire length of the front
side and an entire length of the back side, and the front side and
the back side may be substantially parallel. The front side of the
keepsake or the back side of the keepsake may have an inner surface
that includes curves, bumps, or grooves. The curves, bumps, or
grooves may prevent sliding of the keepsake in the absence of an
external force. The back side may be configured to be substantially
flush against the accessory substrate.
[0010] In some embodiments, the keepsake is a locket comprising a
base portion and a cover portion movable relative to the base
portion about a pivot. The keepsake may be made from silver, gold,
brass, copper, platinum, palladium, rhodium, titanium, steel,
aluminum, nickel, iron, zinc, any combination or alloy thereof;
wood, diamond, ruby, emerald, sapphire, onyx, opal, quartz,
amethyst, jade, glass, crystal, enamel, polymers, rubber; or any
combination thereof. The keepsake may have a polygonal shape. The
keepsake may have the polygonal shape selected from the group
consisting of: circle, ellipse, triangle, quadrilateral, rectangle,
pentagon, hexagon, and octagon. The keepsake may have a shape of an
object, a letter, or a number.
[0011] The accessory substrate may be attached to a surface of the
storage accessory body that is substantially flat or curved. In
some embodiments, the accessory substrate is attached to a surface
of the storage accessory body that is rigid, semi-rigid, or
flexible.
[0012] Additional aspects of the present disclosure may be directed
to a storage accessory comprising: an accessory substrate having a
front face and a back face and attached to a storage accessory
body, the accessory substrate configured to transform between an
open configuration and a closed configuration; and a first keepsake
configured to slide onto the accessory substrate, wherein the first
keepsake has a first front side contacting the front face of the
accessory substrate and showing a decorative portion of the
keepsake, and a first back side contacting the back face of the
accessory substrate; and a second keepsake configured to slide onto
the accessory substrate, wherein the second keepsake has a second
front side contacting the front face of the accessory substrate and
showing a decorative portion of the keepsake, and a second back
side contacting the back face of the accessory substrate, wherein
the accessory substrate permits the first or second keepsake to
slide onto or off of the accessory substrate when the accessory
substrate is in the open configuration, and does not permit the
first or second keepsake to slide onto or off of the accessory
substrate when the accessory substrate is in a closed
configuration, and wherein the first and second keepsakes are
configured such that the first front side and the second front side
do not come into contact with one another when the first back side
comes into contact with the second back side.
[0013] Additional aspects of the present disclosure may be directed
to a storage accessory comprising: an accessory substrate having a
front face and a back face and attached to a chain, strap, zipper,
or handle of the storage accessory, the accessory substrate
configured to transform between an open configuration and a closed
configuration; and at least one keepsake configured to slide onto
the accessory substrate, wherein the at least one keepsake has a
front side contacting the front face of the accessory substrate and
showing a decorative portion of the keepsake, and a back side
contacting the back face of the substrate, wherein the accessory
substrate permits the at least one keepsake to slide onto or off of
the accessory substrate when the accessory substrate is in the open
configuration, and does not permit the at least one keepsake to
slide onto or off of the accessory substrate when the accessory
substrate is in a closed configuration.
[0014] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure
will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the
following detailed description, wherein only exemplary embodiments
of the present disclosure are shown and described, simply by way of
illustration of the best mode contemplated for carrying out the
present disclosure. As will be realized, the present disclosure is
capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details
are capable of modifications in various respects, all without
departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and
description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not
as restrictive
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0015] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned
in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the
same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent
application was specifically and individually indicated to be
incorporated by reference.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The novel features of the invention are set forth with
particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the
features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained
by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth
illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention
are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:
[0017] FIG. 1 shows examples of front sides and back sides of
keepsakes in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG.
1A shows front sides of the keepsakes and FIG. 1B shows back sides
of the keepsakes.
[0018] FIG. 2 shows additional views of keepsakes in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2A shows a front side of
an example of a keepsake. FIG. 2B shows a side view of an example
of a keepsake. FIG. 2C shows a back side of the keep sake. FIG. 2D
shows a top side of the keepsake. FIG. 2E shows a front side of
another example of a keepsake. FIG. 2F shows a side view of the
other example of a keepsake. FIG. 2G shows a back side of the other
example of a keepsake. FIG. 2H shows a top side of the other
example of a keepsake.
[0019] FIG. 3 shows schematics of keepsakes where back sides of the
keepsakes extend beyond a length of front sides of the keepsakes,
in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 4 shows an example of keepsakes on an accessory
substrate in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 5 shows an example of a dangling accessory substrate,
in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5A shows a
rear view of a dangling accessory substrate. FIG. 5B shows a front
view of the dangling accessory substrate. FIG. 5C shows a bottom
view of the dangling accessory substrate. FIG. 5D shows an example
of a dangling accessory substrate with keepsakes mounted thereon.
FIG. 5E shows an example of a rear view of a dangling accessory
substrate with keepsakes mounted thereon.
[0022] FIG. 6 provides an example of a handbag storage accessory in
accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 7A provides another example of a handbag storage
accessory in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 7B provides an additional example of a handbag storage
accessory in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0025] FIG. 8 provides another example of an accessory substrate
formed as a strap on a handbag body, in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 9 is another example of a handbag storage accessory
with an accessory substrate on a carrying strap, in accordance with
an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9A shows an example of a
handbag with straps configured to be carried by a wearer's hand.
FIG. 9B shows an example of a handbag with a strap configured to be
worn across a wearer's body.
[0027] FIG. 10 provides another example of a handbag storage
accessory with a strap accessory substrate and a separate
non-keepsakes receiving portion, in accordance with an embodiment
of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 11 provides an additional example of a handbag storage
accessory with a dangling accessory substrate, in accordance with
an embodiment of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 12A shows examples of wallets with sliding keepsakes,
in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0030] FIG. 12B shows an example of a storage accessory with
sliding keepsakes, in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention.
[0031] FIG. 13 provides examples of an accessory substrate on an
underlying surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention. FIG. 13A shows an example of an accessory substrate in a
closed position. FIG. 13B shows an example of an accessory
substrate in an open position, which may rotate about an axis
perpendicular to an underlying surface. FIG. 13C shows an example
of an accessory substrate in an open position, which may rotate
about an axis lying against an underlying surface.
[0032] FIG. 14 provides an additional example of an accessory
substrate on an underlying surface, in accordance with embodiments
of the invention. FIG. 14A provides an example of an accessory
substrate that may be held against a surface. FIG. 14B provides an
example of an accessory substrate with an intermediary end.
[0033] FIG. 15 shows an example of a keepsake that may be
timepiece, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG.
15A shows a front side of a timepiece keepsake on a wristband. FIG.
15B shows a back side of a timepiece keepsake on a wristband.
[0034] FIG. 16 shows an example of a keepsake that may be a locket,
in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 17 shows additional examples of storage accessories
configured to accept sliding keepsakes, in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0036] While preferable embodiments of the invention have been
shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in
the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only.
Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to
those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It
should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments
of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the
invention.
[0037] The invention provides storage accessories with sliding
keepsakes. Any description herein of handbags may apply to any type
of storage accessory, and vice versa. Any features from particular
handbag embodiments may apply to various other storage accessory
embodiments, and vice versa. Various aspects of the invention
described herein may be applied to any of the particular
applications set forth below or for any other types of accessories.
The invention may be applied as a standalone device, or as part of
an integrated accessorizing or design system. It shall be
understood that different aspects of the invention can be
appreciated individually, collectively, or in combination with each
other.
[0038] Storage accessories, such as handbags, may be personalized
to allow a wearer to select individualized keepsakes that may slide
onto an accessory substrate. The keepsakes may have individualized
designs and may aid in providing personalized decoration of the
storage accessory, such as a handbag. The keepsakes may slide onto
accessory substrates. The accessory substrates may be provided on a
storage accessory, such as handbag (e.g., tote, shopper, canteen,
clutch, wristlet, hobo, cross-body, envelope, messenger, satchel,
bucket, box, bowler, quilted, duffel, fold-over, saddlebag, kelly,
sling, backpack, or baguette bag), wallet (e.g., bi-fold, tri-fold,
long-wallet, pocketbook, zip, envelope, accordion, coin purse,
money-bag, wristlet), toiletry bag, camera bag, pet carrier bag, or
phone case. Any description herein of a handbag may apply to any
type of handbag (i.e., purse). The accessory substrate may be
provided on any portion of the storage accessory, such as a body of
the storage accessory (near the top, near the middle, near the
bottom, on an end face, on a side face, on a bottom), a strap of
the storage accessory, a zipper pull of the storage accessory, or
any other portion of the storage accessory.
[0039] The keepsakes may have a front side that shows the various
decorations, and a backside that may assist with keeping the
keepsake on the accessory substrate. The back side may optionally
have a greater length than the front side. This may keep the
keepsakes spaced apart when viewing the front decorative sides of
the keepsakes. Alternatively, the front and back sides may have any
size or length relative to one another.
[0040] FIG. 1 shows examples of front sides and back sides of
keepsakes in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
Keepsakes may slide onto an elongate member. The elongate member
may form a portion of a storage accessory. The elongate member may
be a storage accessory substrate. The elongate member may be a base
on which the keepsakes may slide. Elongate members may refer to any
portion of any type of storage accessory as described herein.
Elongate members may form a base or substrate onto which the
keepsakes may slide.
[0041] FIG. 1A shows front sides 100a, 100b, 100c of the keepsakes
and FIG. 1B shows back sides 110a, 110b, 110c of the keepsakes.
Keepsakes may also be referred to as charms, keep keys, keepers,
sliders, or trinkets.
[0042] Keepsakes may have a front side 110a, 110b, 110c which may
show decorative portions of the keepsakes. Various keepsakes may
have different designs. In some embodiments, the keepsakes may have
front sides of different dimensions, shapes, materials, and/or
types. For example, a keepsake may have a relatively short length
100a, or may have a greater length 100b, 100c. In some embodiments,
a keepsake front side length may be less than its width. In other
instances, a keepsake front side length may be about equal to or
greater than its width. The width of the keepsake may be greater
than a width of an underlying elongate member.
[0043] A keepsake may have any type of shape. A keepsake may have a
polygonal shape (e.g., circle, ellipse, triangle, quadrilateral,
rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, octagon). A keepsake may have a
regular or irregular shape. In some instances, the keepsake may
have a shape of an object, such as a wishbone 100a, key, car, shoe,
heart, star, crescent, stick figure, house, purse, musical note,
flower, cat, dog, horse, or any other type of object. In some
embodiments, the keepsake may have the shape of a letter or number.
The keepsake may be formed of a solid piece or may be a cut-out
100b that may include an open space therein. For example, the
keepsake may be an outline of a shape, such as the United States.
In some instances, the keepsake may spell out entire words 100c. In
some instances, the keepsake may have a solid front side with words
etched or engraved into the front face.
[0044] Keepsakes may optionally have similar widths to one another.
Keepsakes that will be placed on elongated members of the same or
substantially similar width may have the same or similar
widths.
[0045] Keepsakes may be made from any material. For example,
keepsakes may be made from metal. This may include silver, gold,
brass, copper, platinum, palladium, rhodium, titanium, steel,
aluminum, nickel, iron, zinc, or any combination or alloy thereof.
In some instances, the keepsakes may be plated or coated with a
material, such as a metal. Techniques such as electroplating, ion
plating, or other techniques may be used. Keepsakes may be made
from other materials or may include other materials, including but
not limited to, wood, precious or semi-precious stones (e.g.,
diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, onyx, opal, quartz,
amethyst, jade), glass, crystal, enamel, polymers, rubber, or any
other materials. Single types of materials or combinations of
materials may be provided. The various materials may provide color
and/or texture.
[0046] A surface of a keepsake may be relatively flat. In some
instances, a surface of a keepsake may be textured. In some
instances, a surface of a keepsake may not need to be flat and may
include protrusions or indentations.
[0047] Keepsakes may have back sides 110a, 110b, 110c that may help
keep the keepsake attached to an elongate member. Elongate members
may have a front face and an opposing back face. In some instances,
elongate members may be substantially flat. Front sides of
keepsakes may contact a front face of an elongate member. Back
sides of keepsakes may contact a back face of the elongate member.
Back sides of keepsakes may extend along the width of the elongate
member.
[0048] Examples of elongate members may include accessory
substrates or bases, which may be provided on any portion of any
type of storage accessory. Elongate members may include a band
format where a width is substantially greater than a thickness of
the elongate member. For instance, an elongate member may that has
a width to thickness ratio of at least 20:1, 15:1, 10:1, 8:1, 6:1,
5:1, 4:1, 3:1, or 2:1. Alternatively, the elongate member may have
any other form factor, such as chains, braids, wire, or cord. The
elongate member may form a flat or curved strip. The flat or curved
strip may be formed as a single piece or from multiple pieces
joined together. The elongate member may include any length of
substrate onto which a keepsake may slide. In some examples, the
keepsake is configured to slide onto an elongate member along a
length of the elongate member. In some examples, the keepsake may
slide on an elongate member along a direction other than or besides
a length of the elongate member. The elongate members may be
substantially flat or may be substantially curved. The elongate
members may be flexible to move between a flat or curved shape.
Alternatively, the elongate members may be fixed in a curved or
flat shape.
[0049] In some embodiments, back sides of keepsakes may wrap all
the way around a back face of an elongate member. For example, an
entire circumference of a cross-section of an elongate member may
be encircled by the keepsake. The back side may have a width that
is greater than a width of the elongate member. The back side may
have a portion that may cover sides of the elongate member.
[0050] The back sides may have a length L. For instance, back sides
110a, 110b, 110c may have varying lengths L1, L2, L3 that may
correspond to length of the front sides 100a, 100b, 100c. Different
lengths of keepsakes may have different lengths of back sides. This
may advantageously permit the keepsake to lie flush against an
elongate member. This may cause the elongate member to correspond
to the profile of the keepsake and prevent corners or sides of the
keepsakes from protruding.
[0051] In some instances, depending on the length of the keepsake,
any number of cross-bars 120a, 120b, 120c may be provided. The
cross bars may keep the keepsakes flush against the elongate
members. In some instances, one, two, three, four, five, six,
seven, eight, or more cross bars may be provided on a back side of
a keepsake. In some instances, keepsakes having a greater number of
lengths may have a greater number of cross bars. For example,
relatively short keepsakes (e.g., keep sakes with a greater width
than length) may have one or two cross bars. In another example,
keepsakes spelling out words may have three, four, or five cross
bars.
[0052] In some cases, the backside comprises a first cross bar and
a second cross bar that define an entire length of the backside,
e.g. the first and second cross bars set the boundaries of the
backside along its length. As shown in FIG. 1B, the leftmost
crossbars and rightmost crossbars define the left and right
boundaries of the backside of the keepsakes, respectively. And
accordingly, L1, L2, L3 are defined by the corresponding leftmost
and rightmost crossbars, respectively. In some cases, the first
cross bar, the second cross bar, or both contact at least one of
the one or more side or extension features. In some instances, the
first cross bar, the second bar, or both contact a side bar that
extends between the front side and the back side. In some
instances, the first cross bar, the second cross bar, or both are
connected with at least one of the one or more side bars via one of
the one or more side or extension features.
[0053] The back side may be formed from a single integral piece.
The backside may be substantially flat. In some instances, the
features of the back side, including any cross bars extending along
the width of the keepsake and any side or extension features of the
backside may all be formed form a single integral piece, or may
form a substantially planar surface. In some embodiments, a cross
bar 120a, 120b, 120c may substantially have a first orientation
while the side or extension features 122a, 122b, 122c may have a
substantially second orientation. The second orientation may be
substantially perpendicular to the first orientation. For example,
the cross bar may be oriented in a substantially vertical
orientation with respect to a base when the keepsake is on the base
(where the vertical orientation is substantially parallel to a
width of the base). The side or extension features may have a
substantially horizontal orientation with respect to the base when
the keepsake is on the base. The cross bar may connect to the side
or extension features. The cross bar may connect to the side or
extension feature on a back side of the keepsake. The cross bar may
connect to the side or extension feature on a back side of the
feature that contacts a back face of an elongate member. The
surface of the back side may be substantially continuous and
uninterrupted. In some instances, holes 124a, 124b, 124c may be
provided on the back side, but the back side surface may be
connected as a single piece. One or more holes may be surrounded by
at least one cross bar and at least one side or extension feature.
In some instances, a single hole may be provided, or multiple holes
may be provided on the back side. In one example, a hole may be
surrounded by a pair of cross bars and a pair of side or extension
features. In another example, a hole may be surrounded by a single
cross bar and one, two, or more side or extension features. In
other instances, no holes are provided. A connected single piece
back side may include at least one cross bar primarily traversing a
width of a base and at least one side or extension member primarily
traversing a direction parallel to the length of a base when the
keepsake is on the base. The connected single piece back side may
extend along the entire length of the front side or beyond the
length of the front side of the keepsake.
[0054] FIG. 2 shows additional views of keepsakes in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2A shows a front side of
an example of a keepsake. FIG. 2B shows a side view of an example
of a keepsake. FIG. 2C shows a back side of the keep sake. FIG. 2D
shows a top side of the keepsake.
[0055] As previously described, a keepsake may have any form factor
or design. A keepsake may be provided on an elongate member, such
as a storage accessory base. The front side 200a of a keepsake may
contact a front face of an elongate member. The back side 210 may
contact a back face of an elongate member. When the keepsake is on
the elongate member, the back side of the keepsake may be
substantially not visible when viewing the front face of the
elongate member and/or the front side of the keep sake may be
substantially not visible when viewing the back face of the
elongate member.
[0056] The back side 210 of the keepsake may have any form factor
or shape. The back side of the keepsake may have a length selected
based on the length of the front side 200a. The back side may have
one, two, three, four or more cross bars extending along the width
of the backs ide. The back side may have one or more openings or
cut-outs in the back side. The back side may have a substantially
rounded shape or rounded corners. In some instances, the back side
may have a space for branding or a logo 240a.
[0057] The front side 200a and the back side 210a may be
substantially parallel to one another. In some instances, an inner
surface of the front side 205a (e.g., the side to contact an
elongate member) may be substantially parallel with an inner
surface of the back side 215a (e.g., the side to contact an
elongate member). The inner surface of the front side and the inner
surface of the back side may be substantially flat and/or planar.
Alternatively, the inner surface of the front side and/or the inner
surface of the back side may include curves, bumps, grooves, or any
other surface features. The inner surfaces of the front side and
the back side may be configured to permit the keepsake to slide
over the elongate member. In some instances, the inner surfaces may
be configured to permit the keepsakes to frictionally fit on the
elongate member and prevent unwanted sliding.
[0058] Optionally, an outer surface of the front side and an outer
surface of the back side may be substantially flat and/or planar.
The outer surface of the back side may be parallel to an inner
surface of the back side. The outer surface of the front side may
be parallel to an inner surface of the front side. In other
instances, the outer surface of the front side and/or outer surface
of the back side need not be flat and/or may include variations to
the surface. The outer surfaces may or may not be parallel to the
inner surfaces.
[0059] The front side and the back side of the keepsake may be
substantially planar. The front and back sides may be on
substantially parallel separate planes. The front side may have a
length extending along a first plane while the back side may have a
greater length extending along a second parallel plane. The front
and back sides may overlap when viewed from a perspective
orthogonal to the first plane or the second plane.
[0060] A top side 220a and/or bottom side 230a may be provided on a
keepsake. The top side may be a bar that may extend between the
front side 200a and the back side 210a of the keepsake. The top
side may include one, two, three, four, or more bars.
Alternatively, the top side may be a single solid piece. The bottom
side may be a bar that may extend between the front side and the
back side of the keepsake. The bottom side may include one, two,
three, four, or more bars. Alternatively, the bottom side may be a
single solid piece. In some instances, the same number of bars may
be provided between the top and bottom sides. Alternatively, the
number of bars between the top and bottom sides may be different.
The number and/or arrangement of top and/or bottom side bars may be
selected based on a geometry and/or layout of the front side and/or
back side. The number and/or arrangement of the top side bars may
be selected without regard to the number of the bottom side bars
and vice versa. Any number of side bars may connect the front side
and the back side. The side bars may be on top and/or on bottom.
The side bars may connect to a side or extension feature of a back
side. The side bars may connect to a crossbar of the back side.
[0061] FIG. 2E shows a front side of another example of a keepsake.
FIG. 2F shows a side view of the other example of a keepsake. FIG.
2G shows a back side of the other example of a keepsake. FIG. 2H
shows a top side of the other example of a keepsake.
[0062] A front side 200b of the keepsake may be connected to a back
side 210b of the keepsake via one or more top side 220b and/or
bottom side 230b bars. The cross-section of the keepsake may be
substantially rectangular. The inner surfaces of the cross-section
of the keepsake may be substantially rectangular. A width of a
keepsake may be greater than its thickness. A width of a keepsake
may or may not be greater than its length. The cross-section of the
keepsake may have substantially rounded corners. In some instances,
the inner surface of the cross-section and/or the outer surface of
the cross-section of the keepsake may have substantially rounded
corners.
[0063] In some embodiments, one or more of the top side and/or
bottom side bars of the keepsake may not connect to both the front
side and the back side. For example, a top side bar 221b may
substantially cover the thickness of an elongate member, but not
contact a front face of the elongate member. One or more top side
and/or bottom side bars may form extensions that may at least
partially hook over a side of an elongate member.
[0064] In some embodiments, the front side and the back side of the
keepsake may be formed as an integral single piece. In some
instances, the front side, back side, top side, and bottom side of
the keepsake may be formed as a single integral piece.
Alternatively, one or more pieces may be attached to one another to
form the front side, back side, top side and bottom side. A single
integral piece may be provided to form the base of the keepsake
including at least a portion of the front side, back side, top
side, and bottom side. Optionally additional pieces may be added to
the front side or back side for decorative or branding
purposes.
[0065] FIG. 3 shows schematics of keepsakes where back sides of the
keepsakes extend beyond a length of front sides of the keepsakes,
in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0066] A keepsake may have a front side 300a, 300b and a back side
310a, 310b. The front side may optionally be a decorative side
while the back side may optionally be a support side. In
alternative embodiments, the back side may be decorative as well.
In some instances, the front side may include decorative features
320, such as stones that may protrude, or have decorative shapes or
designs. One or more top or bottom sides 330a, 330b may be provided
that may connect the front side to the back side. In some
instances, both top and bottom sides are provided. In alternate
embodiments, only a top side or a bottom side is provided.
[0067] A keepsake may be mounted onto an accessory substrate 340a.
The accessory substrate may be an elongate member. The terms
"accessory substrate" and "substrate" can be used interchangeably
herein. The accessory substrate may be a strip. The strip may be
incorporated as an existing portion of the storage accessory, or
may be added to the storage accessory. The accessory substrate may
form a base for the keepsakes and may have a flat and/or elongated
shape. Examples of accessory substrates may include various
portions of storage accessories (such as straps, zipper-pulls,
chains) or may be attached to existing portions of storage
accessories (e.g., storage accessory body). The accessory
substrates may have a shape where one or more keepsakes may slide
onto the accessory substrates. The accessory substrates may be
shaped and/or sized to accommodate a single keepsake. The single
keepsake may be swapped out with other keepsakes. In other
instances, the accessory substrates may be shaped and/or sized to
accommodate multiple keepsakes. For example, multiple keepsakes of
the same design or different designs may be added to the accessory
substrates. Further examples of various types of accessory
substrates with keepsakes mounted thereon are described in greater
detail elsewhere herein.
[0068] In some embodiments, a keepsake may be configured such that
when a cross-section if taken of a keepsake on an accessory
substrate 340a, 340b, the front side 300a, 300b, back side 310a,
310b, top side, and bottom side 330a, 330b all wrap around the
accessory substrate. The entirety of a cross-section of at least a
portion of the accessory substrate may be entirely surrounded by
the keepsake. In some instances, when the keepsake is projected
onto a plane parallel to the cross-section of the accessory
substrate, the entirety of a cross-section of at least a portion of
the accessory substrate may be entirely surrounded by the keepsake
projection. There may be at least some overlap between a back side
and a front side of the keepsake.
[0069] A keepsake may have a length L.sub.1 of its front side and a
length L.sub.2 of its back side. Similarly, a keepsake may have a
length L.sub.3 of its front side and a length L.sub.4 of its back
side. A front side and a back side of a keepsake may have different
lengths. In some instances, the front side of the keepsake may have
a lesser length than the back side of the keepsake (e.g.,
L.sub.1<L.sub.2, L.sub.3<L.sub.4). The length of a back side
of a keepsake may extend beyond a length of a front side of a
keepsake. The length of the back side may extend beyond a length of
a front side of a keepsake on a single side (e.g., right side or
left side) or on both sides (e.g., right side and left side). The
back side may be configured such that the back side is on a
different plane than the front side. The back side and front side
planes may be substantially parallel to one another. The back side
may extend beyond the length of the front side on at least one side
(e.g., right side, left side) on the back side plane that is
different from the front side plane. In some cases, the back side
extends beyond the length of the front side on the left side and
right side on the back side plane. The left and right sides can
refer to the sides of the keepsake along the length of the
keepsake, e.g., along the length of the accessory substrate when
the keepsake is slide on the accessory substrate, e.g., along
L.sub.1, L.sub.2, L.sub.3, and/or L.sub.4, as depicted in FIG. 3,
according to some exemplary embodiments.
[0070] In some instances, a distance d.sub.1, d.sub.2, d.sub.3,
d.sub.4 may be provided for which the back side extends beyond the
front side of the keepsake. In some instances, the distance may be
a small amount, such as about 1 cm or less, 5 mm or less, 4 mm or
less, 3 mm or less, 2 mm or less, 1.5 mm or less, 1 mm or less, 0.5
mm or less, or 0.1 mm or less. In some instances, both sides of the
keepsake may have a back side that extends beyond the length of the
front side. Alternatively, a single side or neither side may have a
back side that extends beyond the length of the front side. The
various distances on each side may be substantially the same, or
may be different from one another. In some cases, the distances the
backside extends beyond the right side and left side along the
length of the accessory substrate can be substantially the same. In
one example, the distances being substantially the same can mean
that the distances have a difference of less than about 20% of the
larger one of the distances being referred to. In one example, the
distances being substantially the same can mean that the distances
have a difference of less than about 10% of the larger one of the
distances being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 7.5% of the larger one of the
distances being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 5% of the larger one of the distances
being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 4% of the larger one of the distances
being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 3% of the larger one of the distances
being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 2% of the larger one of the distances
being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 1% of the larger one of the distances
being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 0.5% of the larger one of the
distances being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 0.2% of the larger one of the
distances being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 0.1% of the larger one of the
distances being referred to. In one example, the distances being
substantially the same can mean that the distances have a
difference of less than about 0.01% of the larger one of the
distances being referred to.
[0071] Having a greater length on the back side may prevent the
front sides of the keepsakes from coming into contact with one
another or overlapping one another when they are mounted on the
same accessory substrate. For example, if multiple keepsakes are
slid onto an accessory substrate, the back sides may keep the front
sides spaced apart. This may be advantageous for preventing
keepsakes from bunching up in the front and becoming mis-aligned.
Furthermore, this may also provide a clean presentation for
aesthetic reasons. The keepsakes may be spaced apart so that
pushing on one keepsake along the accessory substrate may cause the
adjacent keepsake to be pushed along so that a space remains
between the front faces of the keepsakes.
[0072] The back side may be shaped such that the back side extends
beyond the longest or outermost portion of the front side.
Alternatively, in some embodiments, the front sides may be shaped
so that a portion extends beyond the longest or outermost portion
of the back side. The front sides may be shaped or arranged so that
they are unlikely to bump into adjoining keepsakes. Thus, even if a
front side has an extension extending beyond the back side, it may
not overlap with or bump into a front side of an adjacent keepsake.
Alternatively, it may contact the front face of the adjacent
keepsake.
[0073] In some embodiments, when a keepsake is slid onto an
accessory substrate 340a, 340b, the substrate may be substantially
flush against all the inner surfaces of the sides of the keepsake.
The substrate may be flush against the front 300a, 300b and back
310a side inner surfaces. In other instances, one of the sides,
such as the back side 310b or a front side may have a curvature or
other feature. The curvature or other feature may cause sufficient
frictional contact between the accessory substrate and the inner
surface of the keepsake to prevent unwanted sliding, while
permitting the keepsake to be slid on when sufficient force is
applied. In some instances, some gaps 350 or spaces may be provided
between the substrate and an inner surface of a side, such as a
front side or back side.
[0074] In some instances, the accessory substrate may be flush with
a top side and/or bottom side 330a, 330b of the keepsake. This may
prevent the keepsake from substantially rotating relative to the
substrate. The keepsakes may be prevented from rotating about an
axis that is perpendicular to a face of the accessory substrate.
Similarly, the keepsakes may be prevented from rotating about an
axis extending along a length of the accessory substrate. The
keepsakes may remain at a substantially stationary orientation
relative to the accessory substrate. In alternate embodiments,
there may be some space or a gap between a side of the accessory
substrate and the top side and/or bottom side 330a, 330b of the
keepsake. This may permit some rotating about any of the axes
described herein. There may be some angular "wiggle" that may be
permitted for the keepsakes.
[0075] FIG. 4 shows an example of keepsakes on an accessory
substrate 400 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4A shows a front side of the accessory substrate 402 with
keepsakes 420a, 420b, 420c.
[0076] The accessory substrate 400 may permit one or more keepsakes
420a, 420b, 420c to slide onto the accessory substrate. The
accessory substrate may have any desired length. For instance, the
accessory substrate may be less than 1 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4
cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 12 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25
cm, 30 cm, 35 cm, 40 cm, 45 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm, or 100 cm
long. The accessory may be greater than 0.1 cm, 0.5 cm, 1 cm, 1.5
cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 12 cm,
15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, 35 cm, 40 cm, 45 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, or
70 cm long. The accessory substrate may have a length falling in a
range between any two values described herein. The accessory
substrate may have a first end and a second end. Alternatively, the
accessory substrate may form a continuous loop. The accessory
substrate may or may not include one or more intermediary ends, as
described elsewhere herein.
[0077] The accessory substrate may lie flat or may have a curved
shape. The substrate may overly an underlying surface of a storage
accessory. The substrate may encircle one or more portion of a
storage accessory. For instance, the substrate may encircle a
storage accessory body or a strap/handle.
[0078] The accessory substrate may have a single fixed point or
multiple fixed points. The fixed point(s) may be permanently fixed,
or may be adjustable to change between a fixed and opened state, as
will be described in greater detail elsewhere herein.
[0079] The accessory substrate may be reversible. The accessory
substrate may have a first face and an opposing second face. The
first face may have a first set of characteristics and the second
face may have a second set of characteristics. At least some of the
second set of characteristics may be different from the first set
of characteristics. For instance, a characteristic may be color. A
first face of a substrate may be of a first color while a second
face of the substrate may be of a second different color. For
instance, one face of the substrate may be beige, while another
face of the substrate may be green. In another example, a
characteristic may be texture. A first face of a substrate may have
a first texture while the second face of a substrate may have a
second texture that may be different from the first texture. For
instance, one face of the substrate may have a smooth texture,
while another face of the substrate may have a bumpy or rough
texture. Another example of a characteristic may be finish. For
example, a first face of a substrate may have a first finish while
a second face of the substrate may have a second finish that is
different from the first finish. For instance, one face of the
substrate may be shiny (e.g., patent), while another face of the
substrate may be brushed, matte or dull. Another example of a
characteristic may include material. A first face of a substrate
may include a first material while a second face of the substrate
may include a second material that is different from the first
material. For example, one face of the substrate may include
leather while another face of the substrate may include fabric.
Other examples of characteristics may be provided. In some
instances, all characteristics between the different faces may be
different, all characteristics between the different faces may be
the same, or one or more characteristics between the different
faces may be different while other characteristics may be the
same.
[0080] This may be useful for a reversible accessory substrate 400.
The substrate may be applied to a storage accessory so that the
first face is directed outward, or so that the second face is
directed outward. Thus, the first set of characteristics (e.g.,
color, texture, finish, material) may be exposed when the substrate
is applied with the first face directed outward. The second set of
characteristics (e.g., color, texture, finish, material) may be
exposed when the substrate is applied with the second face directed
outward. For example, a substrate may be reversible so that in a
first configuration, a beige face is directed outward from a
storage accessory, and in a second configuration, a green face is
directed outward from the storage accessory. The substrate may be
removable and re-attachable so that the substrate may be applied
with a first face being directed outwards with the second face
against a surface of the storage accessory, or applied with a
second face being directed outwards with the first face against the
surface of the storage accessory.
[0081] Keepsakes 420a, 420b, 420c may be slid onto the accessory
substrate 400. The keepsakes may be slid onto the substrate or off
of the substrate while the accessory substrate is in an open
configuration. The keepsakes may not slide on or off when the
accessory substrate is in a closed configuration. Keepsakes may
slide onto or off the substrate through the open end of the
substrate when the substrate is in an open configuration. The faces
of the substrate may be substantially flat. The keepsakes may have
a correspondingly flat form factor that may prevent the keepsakes
from twisting or rotating around an axis that extends along the
length of the substrate. In some embodiments, in the open
configuration, the accessory substrate may permit the keepsake to
slide onto or off the accessory substrate along a length of the
accessory substrate.
[0082] In some examples, in the closed configuration, the accessory
substrate does not permit the keepsake to slide onto or off the
accessory substrate along a length of the accessory substrate. In
some examples, in the closed configuration, the keepsake is not
permitted to slide onto or off the accessory substrate along a
length of the accessory substrate, but is configured to slide onto
or off the accessory substrate along a direction other than the
length of the substrate.
[0083] In some instances, the substrate may be formed from leather,
faux-leather, plastic, silicone, rubber, or similar material that
may be semi-rigid. In other instances, the substrate may be formed
from a metal or metal alloy/combination (such as any metal or metal
alloy/combination described elsewhere herein--e.g., silver,
stainless steel, gold, platinum, titanium, rhodium, iron, brass,
copper, nickel, zinc, aluminum, etc.), stone, hard plastic, glass,
crystal, wood, or similar material that may be rigid. The substrate
may be formed from multiple layers attached to one another. In some
instances, different faces of the substrate may be dyed, plated,
colored, or finished differently.
[0084] A front face 440a, 440b, 440c of the keepsakes may overlie a
front face 402 of the accessory substrate. The front face of the
keepsakes may be decorative and may be viewable when attached to
the storage accessory. The front face of the keepsakes may face
away from an underlying surface of the storage accessory, upon
which the substrate may rest. The front face of the keepsakes may
be exposed to the ambient environment. In some instances, when
viewing the front faces of the keepsakes, they may be spaced apart
and not contacting one another. In alternative embodiments, some
contact may be provided between the front faces of the
keepsakes.
[0085] The substrate may have a top side 406 over which top sides
460a, 460b, 460c of the keepsakes may lie. Each keepsake may have
one or more portions to the top side.
[0086] FIG. 4B shows a back side of the accessory substrate 404
with keepsakes 420a, 420b, 420c. The back side may be a side of the
accessory substrate opposing the front side of the accessory
substrate. The back side may be an inner face of the substrate that
may face a surface of the storage accessory upon which the
substrate is applied. The keepsakes may be mounted on the accessory
substrate so that rear sides 450a, 450b, 450c of the keepsakes are
facing inward. The rear face of the keepsakes may optionally not be
decorative and may not be viewable when attached to the storage
accessory. Alternatively, the rear face of the keepsakes may be
decorative but may not be viewable. The rear faces of the keepsakes
may have a different design from a front face of the keepsake. This
may permit a keepsake to be reversible so that a user can provide
two different looks, using the same keepsake. For instance, a front
and rear face of a keepsake may have one or more different
characteristics (e.g., color, material, finish, shape, etc.). The
rear face of the keepsakes may face toward an underlying surface of
the storage accessory, upon which the substrate may rest. The rear
face of the keepsakes may not be exposed to the ambient
environment. The rear sides may extend along the entire width of
the substrate. The rear sides may be connected to the front sides
440a, 440b, 440c via top sides 460a, 460b, 460c and/or bottom
sides. In some instances, the rear faces of the keepsakes may be
spaced apart and not contacting one another. In alternative
embodiments, some contact may be provided between the rear faces of
the keepsakes. In some instances, the rear sides may have greater
lengths than the front sides. Optionally, the rear sides may have a
length extending beyond a length of the front side. In some
instances, the front faces of the keepsakes may be spaced apart
even when the rear faces of the keepsakes are contacting one
another. The shape of the rear sides may be selected based on the
shape of the front sides. The shape of the rear sides may or may
not roughly track the shapes of the respective front sides.
[0087] The accessory substrate may be formed from a flexible
material. The substrate may be formed from a semi-rigid material.
The substrate may be formed from a rigid or hard material. The
substrate may be able to conform its curvature to match a profile
of a keepsake. The substrate and keepsakes may be sized and/or
shaped so that the keepsakes slide on the substrate when sufficient
force is applied. However, there may be sufficient friction so that
the keepsakes may remain on the substrate without sliding around
when no external force is applied. When an accessory substrate is
attached to a storage accessory, there may be sufficient friction
to keep the keepsakes from sliding around. When an individual
grasps a keepsake and pulls or pushes with sufficient force, the
keepsakes may slide along the substrate. The accessory substrate
and keepsakes may be dimensioned so that the keepsakes remain
substantially upright and do not wriggle.
[0088] The accessory substrate may have any dimensions. For
example, the width of the substrate may be greater than or equal to
about 3 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 1 cm, 1.1 cm, 1.2 cm, 1.3
cm, 1.5 cm, 1.7 cm, 2 cm, 2.5 cm or 3 cm. The width of the
substrate may be less than any of the dimensions described. The
width of the substrate may fall into a range between any two
dimension values described herein. Such dimensions are provided by
way of example only and are not limiting. The substrate and/or
keepsakes may be dimensioned to permit the keepsakes to slide on
and to stay on. The dimensions may be provided to prevent unwanted
sliding of the keepsakes. In some instances, a thickness of the
substrate and a thickness of the opening of the keepsakes may
differ by less than 1 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.1 mm, 0.05 mm, or 0.01 mm.
Optionally, a thickness of the substrate and a thickness of the
opening of the keepsakes may differ by less than 5%, 3%, 1%, 0.5%,
0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.01% of the thickness of the substrate. In some
instances, the substrate material may be slightly resilient, which
may permit the substrate to be squished within the opening of the
keepsakes when the keepsakes slide on. In some instances, the
thickness of the substrate may be slightly greater than a thickness
of the keepsake opening. Alternatively, the thickness of the
substrate may be less than or equal to the thickness of the
keepsake opening.
[0089] The keepsakes may have different decorations and/or
dimensions. An individual may advantageously be able to personalize
their storage accessory with selected keepsakes. The individual may
also be able to select the order the keepsakes are applied and be
able to add or subtract keepsakes, or swap them for other
keepsakes.
[0090] As previously described, the accessory substrate may
optionally be reversible. Alternatively, the accessory substrate is
not reversible. When an accessory substrate is reversible, a first
face of the substrate, having a first set of characteristics, may
be provided as an outer face, with the front sides of the keepsakes
overlying the first face. In this first configuration, the second
face of the substrate may be provided as an inner face, with the
rear sides of the keepsakes overlying the second face. The
configuration of the accessory substrate may be changed so that a
second face of the substrate (opposing the first face of the
substrate), having a second set of characteristics, may be provided
as an outer face, with the front sides of the keepsakes overlying
the second face. In this second configuration, the first face of
the substrate may be provided as an inner face, with the rear sides
of the keepsakes overlying the first face.
[0091] When changing configuration from a first configuration to a
second configuration, the keepsakes may be removed from the
accessory substrate, and then flipped so that the front face of the
keepsakes contact the second face of the substrate instead of the
first face of the substrate. The keepsakes may be slid off of the
substrate. Then the keepsakes may be rotated 180 degrees so that
the front face of the keepsakes aligns with the second face of the
substrate. Then the keepsakes may be slid back onto the substrate.
The accessory substrate itself may be adjusted relative to a
storage accessory. In a first configuration, the first face of the
substrate may be outward-facing. The substrate may optionally be
removed from the storage accessory, flipped so that the second face
of the substrate is outward-facing, and reattached. Alternatively,
the substrate need not be completely separated from the storage
accessory and may just be folded, twisted, or otherwise
re-adjusted. Thus, in the second configuration, both the keepsakes
and the second face of the substrate may be on the outer side.
[0092] This reversibility may add an additional layer of
personalization to the storage accessory. A wearer may be able to
select between different colors or other characteristics for the
substrate, and apply the substrate to the storage accessory, with
an equal layer of incorporation and style. This may increase the
versatility of the storage accessory (e.g., matching different
outfits). The same keepsakes may be used between different
reversible configurations, or may be swapped out for other
keepsakes.
[0093] Similarly, accessory substrates may be swapped out for other
accessory substrates with different characteristics, or the same
characteristics. For instance, if a first accessory substrate is
becoming worn or damaged, the first accessory substrate may be
replaced for a second accessory substrate that may be new or
undamaged. In another instance, the first accessory may be swapped
for a second accessory that may have different characteristics
(e.g., color, finish, texture, material, size, shape).
[0094] The keepsakes may have different decorations and/or
dimensions. An individual may advantageously be able to personalize
their storage accessory with selected keepsakes. The individual may
also be able to select the order the keepsakes are applied and be
able to add or subtract keepsakes, or swap them for other
keepsakes.
[0095] In some embodiments, the keepsakes may be designed and/or
dimensioned so that they can be used on a plurality of different
types of accessory substrates. For example, the same keepsake may
be worn on a leather semi-rigid substrate, a metallic mesh
substrate, or a solid metal band substrate. In some instances, the
keepsakes and substrates may be dimensioned so that the keepsakes
may be frictionally fit onto a first type of substrate (e.g.,
leather or silicone substrate) while more freely moving on another
type of substrate (e.g., metal mesh or solid metal substrate). The
dimensioning may be provided to accommodate different materials of
accessory substrates. For example, for harder or more rigid
underlying accessory substrate materials (e.g., metals, hard
plastics), the keepsakes may be configured to move more freely on
the accessory substrate. Stoppers may or may not be employed to
keep the keepsakes in place. For the more flexible or malleable
accessory substrate materials (e.g., leather, soft plastics), the
keepsakes may be configured to be frictionally fit on the accessory
substrate. Stoppers may not be needed to keep the keepsakes in
place.
[0096] This may advantageously permit greater flexibility in the
user of the keepsakes. In addition to customizing a storage
accessory with personalized keepsakes, a user may be able to
customize an accessory substrate for particular keepsakes. For
example, a user may have a keepsake or set of keepsakes that the
user wishes to wear with different accessory substrates. For
example, a user may wear a keepsake with a leather substrate for a
more casual look, while swapping out the accessory substrate to
wear the keepsake with a metallic substrate to provide a more
dressed-up look. The accessory substrate may be customized for the
storage accessories for different occasions. Similarly, a first
substrate may be used for a more traditional look, while a second
substrate may be used for a more trendy or modern look. A user may
slide a keepsake onto a first accessory substrate on a storage
accessory. The user may carry the storage accessory. When the user
wishes to change accessory substrates, the user may slide the
keepsake off the first substrate. The substrate may optionally be
removed from the storage accessory. The user may then slide the
keepsake onto a second substrate, which may be attached to the
storage accessory beforehand, concurrently, or afterwards.
[0097] FIG. 5 shows an example of a dangling accessory substrate
and keepsakes on the dangling accessory substrate, in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 5A shows a rear view of
the dangling accessory substrate. FIG. 5B shows a front view of the
dangling accessory substrate. FIG. 5C shows a bottom view of the
dangling accessory substrate. The accessory substrate 500 may be
attached to a storage accessory by a single connection point. The
dangling accessory substrate may be an accessory base. The dangling
accessory substrate may be an elongate member.
[0098] The accessory substrate may include a body 510 and a base
515. The body of an accessory substrate may be substantially flat.
A front face and rear face of the dangling substrate may be
substantially planar and parallel to one another. The thickness of
the substrate may be less than the width of the substrate. The
thickness of the substrate may be less than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%,
10%, 5%, or 1% of the width of the substrate. The width of the
substrate may remain substantially the same along the length of the
substrate. The width of the substrate may remain substantially the
same for at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, or 99% of the
length of the substrate. In some instances, a front side of the
substrate body and the rear side of the substrate body may look
substantially identical. They may have the same characteristics.
The pendant body may be formed as a single integral piece. The
pendant body may be formed as a single solid piece. The pendant
body may be formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material. The pendant
body may be formed from a metal, such as any of the metals
described elsewhere herein. The pendant body may be formed from any
other type of material described elsewhere herein.
[0099] The base 515 of the substrate may be substantially flat. The
base of the substrate may have a greater thickness than the body
510 of the substrate. The extra thickness from the base may form a
shelf 517 upon which keepsakes may rest. The shelf may extend on
the front side of the substrate and/or the back side of the
substrate. In some instances, the shelf may extend on both the
front and back sides of the substrate. The base may prevent
keepsakes from sliding past the base. The base may be integrally
formed with the body of the substrate. The base and body may be
formed from a single piece. In other instances, the base may be
formed from a different piece and attached to the body. In some
instances, branding or a logo may be displayed on the base. For
instance, branding or a logo may be displayed on a front face of
the base (e.g., FIG. 5B) and/or a bottom surface of the base (e.g.,
FIG. 5C). The base may have the same width as the body, or may have
a greater width than the body. When the base has a greater width
than the body, the shelf may circumscribe the substrate where the
body meets the base.
[0100] The substrate 500 may include a connection point 520 through
which the dangling accessory substrate may be attached to a portion
of the storage accessory. For instance, the connection point may
include a loop. The loop may be attached through a hole in the body
510. The loop may move relative to the body. Alternatively, the
loop may be integrally formed into the substrate body. The
substrate may have a `dogtag` shape. The substrate may have a
rounded end, or an end with sharp corners.
[0101] FIG. 5D shows an example of a dangling accessory substrate
500 with keepsakes mounted thereon. FIG. 5E shows an example of a
rear view of a substrate with keepsakes mounted thereon. One, two,
three, four, five, six or more keepsakes may be mounted onto a
substrate. The keepsakes may slide onto a substrate body 510. In
some instances, the keepsakes may slide onto the substrate body
from an end opposing the base 515. The base may or may not be
removable from the body. In some instances, the base is integrally
formed with the body. The keepsakes may slide over the connection
point 520, such as a loop, to slide onto the substrate body. When
the substrate is hanging from the storage accessory, the rest of
the storage accessory may prevent the keepsakes from sliding off.
In some instances, the loop may be dimensioned so that the
keepsakes may slide on with sufficient force from a wearer, but do
not easily slide off without extra force being applied by the
wearer.
[0102] A front side 530a, 530b, 530c of the keepsake may contact a
front face of the substrate body 510. A rear side 540a, 540b, 540c
of the keepsake may contact a rear face of the substrate body. The
front side and the rear side of the keepsake may be connected to
one another via one or more top sides and/or bottom sides 550a,
550b, 540c. The keepsakes may slide onto the substrate body and
completely encircle the substrate body. When a cross-section of the
substrate body is taken, the substrate body may be entirely
surrounded by the keepsake. The keepsakes may be stopped by a base
515 from sliding further. When a substrate is dangling, the
keepsakes may be propped upwards by the base. When a plurality of
keepsakes are provided on a substrate, the lowest keepsake may
contact and be supported by the base. The next lowest keepsake may
be supported by the lowest keepsake. Each keepsake may be supported
by the keepsake beneath it, when the substrate is hanging.
[0103] The keepsakes may be configured so that the front sides
530a, 530b, 530c remain spaced apart when the keepsakes are
adjacent to one another on the substrate body 510. The rear sides
540a, 540b, 540c may contact one another on the substrate body.
When the substrate is dangling, the substrate may have a vertical
orientation. Keepsakes may be stacked on the vertical substrate. In
some instances, when the keepsakes are stacked, they may be
positioned so that the rear sides of the keepsakes contact one
another. In some instances, when the rear sides of the keepsakes
contact one another, the front sides may be remain spaced apart.
When the keepsakes are stacked, the front sides may optionally not
contact one another. In other embodiments, the front sides may
contact one another.
[0104] In some instances, the keepsakes may move freely along the
substrate body. Optionally, stoppers, such as those described
elsewhere herein, may be provided. The stopper may prevent
keepsakes from sliding along the substrate body beyond the stopper.
Stoppers may or may not be used with the substrates.
[0105] The substrate body is provided by way of example only and
are not limiting. For instance, a dog-tag type configuration may be
provided as illustrated. The elongated portion may have a
substantially vertical orientation or any other orientation when
dangling from a storage accessory. In other embodiments, the
substrate may be arranged so that the elongated body has a
substantially horizontal position when applied to the storage
accessory. The horizontal pendant may be supported on both ends or
a single end by connection points. The keepsakes may slide on and
be arranged horizontally in a row on the horizontal pendant. In
other instances, the substrate body may have an arced shape onto
which the keepsakes may slide. Optionally, the arc may be provided
so that the front and back portions of the substrate form a `C`
shape. The `C` shape may lie substantially flat or may be
curved.
[0106] Optionally, accessory substrates may be reversible. In some
instances, each side of a substrate may have the same
characteristics. Alternatively, different characteristics may be
provided on different sides of the substrate. For example, a first
side may be plated with a first type of metal while a second side
may be plated with a second type of metal. Optionally, the second
type of metal may have different visual characteristics (e.g.,
color, finish, shine), than the first type of metal. The keepsakes
may be arranged so that the front sides of the keepsakes are over a
first side of the pendant. The pendant may be reversed by switching
the orientation of the keepsakes so that the front sides of the
keepsakes are over a second side of the pendant. In some instances,
when dangling from the storage accessory, the front sides of the
keepsakes may be exposed or may face outwards. The substrate may
dangle so there is a bias to provide an increased likelihood of the
front side of the keepsake being exposed. Alternatively, the rear
side of the keepsakes may also be exposed or may have an equal
chance of being exposed.
[0107] The dangling accessory substrate may be attached to any
portion of a storage accessory, as described in greater detail
elsewhere herein. For instance, the dangling accessory substrate
may serve as a zipper pull of the storage accessory. The dangling
accessory substrate may hang from a strap, chain, zipper, body
(e.g., at or near a top edge of the body, near a middle region of a
body, near a bottom of a body, a side face of the body, or an end
face of the body), or any other portion of a storage accessory. The
dangling accessory substrate may be permanently affixed to the
storage accessory. Alternatively, the dangling accessory may be
easily removable from the storage accessory. The dangling accessory
substrate may be exchanged for other accessory substrates. Any
description herein of the dangling accessory substrate may apply to
any other type of accessory substrate, and vice versa.
[0108] In some embodiments, the keepsakes may be designed and/or
dimensioned so that they can be used on a plurality of different
types of accessory substrates, such as handbag substrates, as
described elsewhere herein. For example, the same keepsake may be
worn on a substrate with two connection points and a dangling
accessory substrate with a single connection point. In some
instances, the keepsakes and substrates may be dimensioned so that
the keepsakes may be frictionally fit onto a first accessory
substrate while more freely moving on a second accessory substrate
(e.g., dangling accessory substrate). Any of the accessory
substrates may have any dimension. For example, a width of an
accessory substrate may be less than or equal to about 3 mm, 5 mm,
6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 1 cm, 1.1 cm, 1.2 cm, 1.3 cm, 1.5 cm, 1.7
cm, 2 cm, 2.5 cm or 3 cm. The width of the substrate may be greater
than any of the dimensions described. The width of the substrate
may fall into a range between any two dimension values described
herein. Different types of substrates may have the same width or
different widths. Different types of substrates may have widths
within 10% of one another to permit the same keepsakes to be used
with the different substrates. Such dimensions are provided by way
of example only and are not limiting. Stoppers may or may not be
needed to keep the keepsakes in place. Any of the types of
accessory substrates described herein may or may not employ
stoppers to keep keepsakes in place.
[0109] These configurations may advantageously permit greater
flexibility in the user of the keepsakes. As previously described,
a user may be able to customize an accessory substrate for
particular keepsakes. For example, a user may have a keepsake or
set of keepsakes that the user wishes to wear with different
storage accessories (e.g., handbags, wallets, carriers). For
example, a user may wear a keepsake with a handbag, while swapping
out the storage accessory to wear the keepsake with a wallet. This
may be useful to accommodate different types of outfits that may
match different storage accessories. A user may slide a keepsake
onto a first accessory substrate. The user may carry a first
storage accessory that has the first accessory substrate. When the
user wishes to change storage accessories, the user may slide the
keepsake off the first accessory substrate. The user may then slide
the keepsake onto a second accessory substrate on a second storage
accessory, and carry the second storage accessory. In some
instances, the user may slide a keepsake onto a first accessory
substrate. The user may carry a storage accessory that has the
first accessory substrate. When the user wishes to change accessory
substrates, the user may slide the keepsake off the first accessory
substrate. The first accessory substrate may optionally be removed
from the storage accessory and replaced with a second accessory
substrate. The user may then slide the keepsake onto a second
accessory substrate. In other embodiments, the second accessory
substrate may be on the storage accessory ahead of time (e.g.,
concurrently with the first accessory substrate).
[0110] FIG. 6 provides an example of a handbag 600 storage
accessory in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The
handbag may include a handbag body 610 and may optionally include
one or more straps 620. An accessory substrate 630 may have a first
accessory end 640 and a second substrate end 650. One or more
keepsakes 660a, 660b may slide onto the accessory substrate.
Optionally, a stopper 670 may be provided, which may keep the
keepsakes on the accessory substrate.
[0111] A handbag body may have any shape or dimension. For
instance, the handbag body may be formed so that the handbag is any
type of handbag, such as a tote, shopper, canteen, clutch,
wristlet, hobo, cross-body, envelope, messenger, satchel, bucket,
box, bowler, quilted, duffel, fold-over, saddlebag, kelly, sling,
backpack, or baguette bag. The handbag body may have any size. For
instance, the handbag body may enclose a volume of greater than
about 1 cm.sup.3, 5 cm.sup.3, 10 cm.sup.3, 20 cm.sup.3, 50
cm.sup.3, 75 cm.sup.3, 100 cm.sup.3, 120 cm.sup.3, 150 cm.sup.3,
175 cm.sup.3, 200 cm.sup.3, 250 cm.sup.3, 300 cm.sup.3, 350
cm.sup.3, 400 cm.sup.3, 450 cm.sup.3, 500 cm.sup.3, 600 cm.sup.3,
700 cm.sup.3, 800 cm.sup.3, 1000 cm.sup.3, 1500 cm.sup.3, 2000
cm.sup.3, 2500 cm.sup.3, 3000 cm.sup.3, 4000 cm.sup.3, 5000
cm.sup.3, 6000 cm.sup.3, 7000 cm.sup.3, 8000 cm.sup.3, 9000
cm.sup.3, 10,000 cm.sup.3, 12,000 cm.sup.3, 15,000 cm.sup.3, 20,000
cm.sup.3, 30,000 m.sup.3, 40,000 cm.sup.3, or 50,000 cm.sup.3. The
handbag body may enclose a volume of less than any of the values
described. The handbag body may have a volume falling within a
range between any two of the values described herein.
[0112] The handbag body may be formed from a rigid material,
semi-rigid material, or flexible material, such as any materials
described elsewhere herein. The handbag body may be formed from
leather, textiles, straw, metal (e.g., solid pieces, coins, chains
or links), plastic, silicone, rubber, wood, glass, crystal, or any
combination thereof. The handbag body may be formed from a single
material or may be formed from multiple materials. The handbag body
may be formed from a single integral piece or from multiple pieces.
For instance, the handbag body may include a first portion 610a and
a second portion 610b that may have different characteristics
(e.g., color, material, finish, shine, etc.).
[0113] The handbag may optionally include one or more straps 620.
In some instances, two straps may be provided. For instance, a
first strap may be on a first side of the handbag body while the
second strap may be on a second side of the handbag body. The
straps may form a handle of the handbag. In other instances, both
the first and second straps may be on the same side of the handbag
body (e.g., backpack). In other instances, a single strap may be
provided (e.g., cross-body, satchel, messenger bag). In other
instances, there may be multiple straps types of straps (e.g.,
cross-body strap and handle straps). The straps may be permanently
affixed to the handbag, or may be removable from the rest of the
handbag. For instance, one or more straps may have lobster clasps,
rings, or other types of attachment mechanisms that may permit the
straps to be easily removed or re-attached to the rest of the
handbag. In some instances, removable straps may be used for other
accessorizing purposes. For instance, a strap may be used as a
belt, scarf, necklace, bracelet, anklet, head-piece, or any other
purpose. In one example, the strap may be formed as a chain, which
may be worn as an article of jewelry, such as a necklace, bracket,
or anklet. In another example, the removable strap may be a flat
strap that may be worn as a belt (e.g., leather, chain,
decorative).
[0114] The straps may have any length. The straps may be configured
to go around a wearer's wrist (e.g., wristlet). The straps may be
configured to be grasped by a hand of the wearer. The straps may be
configured to go over a wearer's shoulder (e.g., for a tote). The
straps may be configured to cross a wearer's body (e.g., cross-body
bag). The straps may be configured to be fitted over a front of a
wearer's body (e.g., backpack or sling strap). In some embodiments,
a handbag may not have a strap. For instance, the handbag may be a
clutch configured to be carried in a wearer's hand. In another
instance, the handbag may include one or more holes through which a
wearer's fingers or wrist may pass. In some instances, the holes
may define a set of `straps` that may serve as a handle of the
handbag.
[0115] An accessory substrate 630 may be provided on the handbag.
The accessory substrate may be formed from the same material as the
handbag body or may be formed from a different material as the
handbag body. The accessory substrate may have a different
characteristic from the handbag body (e.g., color, material,
texture, finish). The accessory substrate may share zero, one, or
more characteristics with the handbag body. The accessory substrate
may have a different characteristic from the handbag strap. The
accessory substrate may share zero, one, or more characteristics
with the handbag strap. The accessory substrate may permit one or
more keepsakes 660a, 660b to slide on. The accessory substrate may
pass through an opening of the one or more keepsakes. The keepsakes
and/or accessory substrate may have any characteristic as described
elsewhere herein.
[0116] The accessory substrate 630 may have a first end 640 and a
second end 650. One or more of the ends may be affixed to a portion
of the handbag. For instance, one or more of the ends may be
affixed to a handbag body 610. Both ends of the accessory substrate
may be affixed to the handbag body. Both ends of the accessory may
be affixed to a same side or face of the handbag body.
Alternatively, the ends of the accessory substrate may be on
different sides or different faces of the handbag body.
[0117] In one example, zero, one, two or more of the ends may be
permanently affixed to the handbag body. The end may be designed to
not be removable from the handbag body. A permanently affixed end
may be glued on, soldered on, sewn on, melted on, or attached in
any other permanent manner. In one example, a first end 640 of the
accessory substrate may be permanently affixed to the handbag
body.
[0118] Zero, one, two, or more of the ends may be removably
attached to the handbag body. The end may be designed to be
removable from the handbag body and/or reattached to the handbag
body. A removably attached end may comprise a fastening element
that is removably engageable with a fastener. The fastener may be
affixed to the handbag body. A removably attached end may be
attached via a snap-fit, slide-lock, friction-fit, clasp, hook,
hook-and-loop fastener, magnet, threaded fastener, button, zipper,
safety pin, or any other type of removably attachable
configuration. In some instances, a removable attachment may have a
first component that is on an end of an accessory substrate, and a
second component that is on an underlying surface (e.g., handbag
body). Optionally, a second end 650 of the accessory substrate may
be removably attached to the handbag body. When the second end is
attached to the handbag body, the accessory substrate may be in a
closed position. When the second end is detached from the handbag
body, the accessory substrate may be in an open position. When in
an open position, the detachable end of the substrate may be an
open end. The keepsakes may slide on or off the substrate via the
open end. When in a closed position, the keepsakes may not slide on
or off the substrate.
[0119] As previously described, the keepsakes 660a, 660b may remain
friction-fit onto the substrate. This may prevent the keepsakes
from sliding around absent an outside force from a wearer.
Alternatively, the keepsakes may slide freely around on the
substrate. The keepsakes may move, even absent an outside force
from a wearer.
[0120] Optionally one or more stoppers 670 may be provided. The
stoppers may prevent the keepsakes from sliding past the stoppers.
The stoppers may remain friction-fit onto the substrate and may not
move absent an outside force. The stoppers may completely encircle
the substrate, or may partially encircle the substrate. In some
instances, the stopper may encircle three sides of the substrate
and may have one or more open side (e.g., top side or bottom side).
In one example, the stopper may pinch onto the underling substrate,
like a clip. The stopper may optionally be a clamp, or have any
other mechanism that may keep the stopper on the substrate. The
stopper may have any shape or configuration. For example, the
stopper may be in the shape of a key, or may form a design brand or
logo. The stopper may be used for branding purposes. The stopper
may be formed from the same material or from a different material
as the substrate. The stopper may have a length that may be close
to the width of the substrate. The length of the stopper may be
greater than, less than, or equal to the width of the substrate.
The stopper length may deviate from the width of the substrate by
less than or equal to 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 7%, 5%, 3%, or 1% of the
stopper length.
[0121] In some instances, the stopper 670 may be placed near an end
650 of the substrate that may be removably attachable. The stopper
may prevent the keepsakes 660a, 660b from sliding off the
substrate, even when the substrate is in an open configuration.
This may prevent the keepsakes from falling off, even if the
substrate unintentionally reaches an open configuration, or when a
user moves the substrate to an open configuration.
[0122] A user may move the substrate to an open configuration,
slide on one or more keepsakes, and then move the substrate to a
closed configuration. A user may optionally add a stopper prior to,
concurrently with, or subsequent to moving the substrate to the
closed configuration. Any keepsakes, as described elsewhere herein,
may be applied. In one example, the keepsakes may be letters, which
may form initials of a wearer of the handbag, or spell out the name
of the wearer of the handbag.
[0123] FIG. 7A provides an example of a handbag 700 storage
accessory in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The
handbag may include a handbag body 710 and may optionally include
one or more straps 720. An accessory substrate 730 may have a first
accessory end 740 and a second substrate end 750. One or more
keepsakes 760a, 760b may slide onto the accessory substrate.
Optionally, a stopper 770 may be provided, which may keep the
keepsakes on the accessory substrate.
[0124] The handbag may have any characteristics, as described in
FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the accessory substrate 730 may have a
first end 740, and a second end 750. The first and second ends may
both be permanently affixed, one end may be permanently affixed
while one end may be removably attached, or both ends may be
removably attached. The keepsakes 760a, 760b may slide onto the
accessory substrate.
[0125] One or more holders 770a, 770b may overlie at least a
portion of the accessory substrate. The holders may be affixed to a
handbag body. The holders may be permanently affixed to the handbag
body. The substrate may pass through a space formed between the
handbag body and the holders. The holders may prevent the keepsakes
from sliding past the holders. The holders may perform a similar
function as the stoppers. Stoppers may or may not be used in
conjunction with the holders. The holders may keep the accessory
substrate held against the handbag body. In one example, the
substrate may have one permanently affixed end 740, and one
removably attached end 750. The removably attached end may be
detached from the handbag body. The open end may then pass through
a corresponding holder 770b to be provided in a fully open position
that may allow keepsakes to slide on and off. The substrate may be
formed from a flexible material that may be allowed to bend or
flex, which may allow the open end to pass through the holder. In
another example, both ends may be removably attached. Both ends may
be detached from the handbag body and may slide out past the
holders. The keepsakes may be altered. Alternatively, the accessory
substrate may be replaced with another accessory substrate on the
handbag body, or may be reversed/flipped so that a different face
is facing outwards.
[0126] The holders may be formed from the same material as the
handbag body or may be formed from a different material as the
handbag body. The holders may have a different characteristic from
the handbag body (e.g., color, material, texture, finish). The
holders may share zero, one, or more characteristics with the
handbag body. The holders may have a different characteristic from
the handbag strap. The holders may share zero, one, or more
characteristics with the handbag strap.
[0127] FIG. 7B provides an additional example of a handbag storage
accessory in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The
handbag may include a handbag body 710 and may optionally include
one or more straps 720. An accessory substrate 730 may have a first
accessory substrate end 740 and a second accessory substrate end
750. One or more keepsakes 760 may slide onto the accessory
substrate. Optionally, a stopper may be provided, which may keep
the keepsakes on the accessory substrate.
[0128] The handbag may have any characteristics, as described in
FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the accessory substrate 730 may have a
first end 740, and a second end 750. The first and second ends may
both be permanently affixed, one end may be permanently affixed
while one end may be removably attached, or both ends may be
removably attached. The keepsakes 760 may slide onto the accessory
substrate. The accessory substrate may be formed from a rigid,
semi-rigid, or flexible material. The accessory substrate may be
formed from the same material or a different material as the
handbag body. The accessory substrate may be formed from the same
material or a different material as a handbag strap.
[0129] When a handbag is viewed from a side, the accessory
substrate may be visible. In some embodiments, a single accessory
substrate may be provided on the handbag. Alternatively, multiple
accessory substrates may be provided on the handbag. One or more
accessory substrates may be visible from either side of the
handbag. In some embodiments, an accessory substrate may be visible
from a first side of the handbag but not the second side.
[0130] FIG. 8 provides another example of a handbag 800 storage
accessory in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The
handbag may include a handbag body 810 and may optionally include
one or more straps 820. An accessory substrate 830 may be provided
on the handbag body. One or more keepsakes 860a, 860b, 860c may
slide onto the accessory substrate.
[0131] Accessory substrates may be provided on any portion of the
handbag body. For instance, as illustrated earlier, accessory
substrates may have a first end and a second end that may be
attached to a handbag body. The accessory substrates may be
relatively short. The accessory substrate may be centered relative
to a side of the handbag body (as illustrated in FIG. 6 and FIG.
7). Alternatively, the accessory substrate may be off-center
relative to the side of the handbag body.
[0132] The accessory substrate may be at or near the top of the
handbag body (e.g., within 1%, 3%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%,
40%, or 50% of the top). In other instances, the accessory
substrate may be at or near the bottom of the handbag body (e.g.,
within 1%, 3%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of the
bottom). The accessory substrate may be near a central region of
the handbag body (e.g., within plus or minus 5%, 10%, 20%, or 30%
of the centerline). The accessory substrate may be on a side face
of the handbag body, or may be at an end of the handbag body.
[0133] The accessory substrate 830 may optionally form a strap that
may overlie a portion of the handbag body. The accessory substrate
may completely encircle the handbag body. The accessory substrate
may lie over only one side of the handbag body. The accessory
substrate may encircle at least 10%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 50%, 75%, 90%,
or 99% of the circumference of the handbag body. In some instances,
the strap may encircle the handbag body multiple times. For
instance, the strap may wrap around the handbag body once, twice,
three times, four times, or more. The accessory substrate may be
attached to the handbag body at one, two, or more points so that it
does not shift significantly vertically. Similarly, it may
optionally not shift significantly horizontally or
circumferentially. The accessory substrate may be positioned at any
height on the handbag body. The accessory substrate may have any
alignment relative to a top edge of the handbag body. For instance,
it may be substantially parallel to a top edge of the handbag body,
it may be substantially orthogonal relative to a top edge of the
handbag body, or it may be diagonal relative to the top edge of the
handbag body.
[0134] The keepsakes may slide on the substrate body. The keepsakes
may be able to slide anywhere along the length of the substrate
body. Alternatively, one or more stoppers or holders may be
provided that may prevent the keepsakes from sliding past. One or
more end of the substrate body may be removable to permit the
keepsakes to slide on or off. Any removable attachment mechanism
may be used, as described elsewhere herein. In some instances, a
buckle may be used. A buckle may be unbuckled to provide a free-end
of the strap, thereby permitting the keepsakes to slide on or
off.
[0135] FIG. 9 provides an example of handbag 900a, 900b storage
accessories in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG.
9A shows an example of a handbag with straps configured to be
carried by a wearer's hand. FIG. 9B shows an example of a handbag
with a strap configured to be worn across a wearer's body.
[0136] The handbag 900a, 900b may include a handbag body 910a. 910b
and may optionally include one or more straps 920a, 920b. The one
or more straps may serve as an accessory substrate. The ends of the
accessory substrates may be the end of the straps. One or more
keepsakes 960a, 960b, 960c, 960d, 960e may slide onto the accessory
substrate. The keepsakes may slide along the length of the handbag
straps/handles.
[0137] In some embodiments, the ends of the accessory substrate may
be permanently affixed to the handbag. Alternatively, one or more
ends of the accessory substrate may be removable attached to the
handbag. For instance, a clasp, such as a lobster clasp, may be
provided at the end of a strap or handle that may permit the end of
the strap to be removed from the handbag. The keepsakes may slide
on or off the strap when the end of the strap is removed from the
handbag. In some instances, both ends of the strap may be removable
from the handbags. Different handbag straps/handles may be swapped
in and out for a particular handbag. Keepsakes may be swapped in or
out or transferred from strap to strap.
[0138] In other instances, the ends of the strap may be permanently
affixed to the handbag but one or more intermediary region of the
strap may be open-able. The intermediary region may be any region
along the length of the strap between the ends of the strap. The
intermediary region may have a closed position that may prevent the
keepsakes from sliding on or off. Multiple portions of the straps
may be held together in the closed position. The intermediary
region may have an open position that may allow the keepsakes to
slide on or off. Multiple portions of the straps may be separated
from one another in the open position. The intermediary region may
be within 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or 45% of a midpoint of the strap
along the length of the strap. For instance, a buckle may be
provided that may separate two portions of the strap. The keepsakes
may slide on or off the strap when the buckle is unbuckled. In
other instances, other types of removable attachments (such as
mechanisms described elsewhere herein) may be openable in an
intermediary region of the strap to permit the keepsakes to slide
on or off the strap. The open-able regions may be reattached to a
closed configuration to prevent keepsakes from sliding on or off
the straps.
[0139] FIG. 10 provides another example of a handbag 1000 storage
accessory in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The
handbag may include a handbag body 1010 and may optionally include
one or more straps 1020. An accessory substrate 1030 may be
provided on the handbag body. The accessory substrate may overlie a
separate portion 1040 that may not be configured to accept
keepsakes. One or more keepsakes 1060a, 1060b, 1060c may slide onto
the accessory substrate.
[0140] In one example, an accessory substrate 1030 may overlap a
region that does not accept keepsakes 1040. The keepsake portion
may encircle the additional portion of the handbag. The keepsake
portion may lie flush against the additional portion of the
handbag. In some instances, multiple keepsake portions may be
provided on a handbag, or any other storage accessory described
elsewhere herein. The multiple keepsake portions may be configured
to accept the same types of keepsakes, or same dimensions of
keepsakes. Alternatively, the multiple keepsake portions may be
configured to accept different types of keepsakes or different
dimensions of keepsakes. For instance, a first keepsake portion may
accept a first keepsake of a particular dimension while not
accepting a second keepsake of a different dimension. The second
keepsake portion may accept the second keepsake while not accepting
the first keepsake.
[0141] FIG. 11 provides an additional example of a handbag 1100
storage accessory in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention. The handbag may include a handbag body 1110 and may
optionally include a fastening system, such as a zipper 1120. An
accessory substrate 1130 may be provided on the handbag body. The
accessory substrate may include a substrate body 1140 and a
substrate base 1150. One or more keepsakes 1160a, 1160b, 1160c may
slide onto the accessory substrate.
[0142] The accessory substrate may be a dangling accessory
substrate as previously described elsewhere herein. The dangling
accessory substrate may function as a zipper pull. The keepsakes
may slide on or off the zipper pull to personalize the zipper pull.
The zipper pull may or may not be removable from the zipper. For
instance, the zipper pull may include a clasp or ring that may
permit the zipper pull to be detached from the zipper. The
keepsakes may slide on or off via the open end when the zipper is
detached from the zipper (e.g., end opposing the substrate base).
The zipper pull may be reattached to the zipper to prevent the
keepsakes from sliding on or off
[0143] In alternative embodiments the zipper pull does not need a
substrate base. Instead, the keepsakes may slide on or off via the
free end that is opposing the zipper end. In some instances, a
stopper may be added or removed to prevent the keepsakes from
sliding off the zipper pull accessory substrate.
[0144] Dangling accessory substrates may be provided on any other
portion of the handbag. The accessory substrates may be located
anywhere on the handbag body, as described elsewhere herein, on a
strap of the handbag, or on any other portion of the handbag.
[0145] FIG. 12A shows examples of wallets 1200 that may have
sliding keepsakes, in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention. The wallets may have a wallet body 1210. The wallets may
have an interior 1220. In some instances, a characteristic of the
interior of the wallet may have a different characteristic (e.g.,
color, texture, material, finish) than the exterior surface of the
wallet body, or may share one or more characteristics with the
exterior surface of the wallet body.
[0146] The wallets may have an accessory substrate 1230 that may
accept one or more sliding keepsakes 1260. The accessory substrate
may have a first end 1240 and a second end 1250. The ends may be
permanently affixed to the wallet body, or may be removably
attached to the wallet body. One end may be permanently affixed
while the other end may be removably attached. The accessory
substrate may be attached to the wallet body in any manner, as
described for the attachment to the handbag body. Any description
of how or where an accessory substrate may be attached to a handbag
body may apply to any other storage accessory, such as a wallet, or
other portion of the handbag, such as a strap, or zipper. For
instance, the accessory substrate may be substantially centered on
the wallet face. Alternatively the accessory substrate may be
off-center. The accessory substrate may be at any vertical position
along the wallet face. The accessory substrate may have a short
plate configuration, or may be a longer strap. The longer strap may
completely or partially encircle the wallet body. The accessory
substrate may be attached to the wallet body via a single
connection point or multiple connection points.
[0147] Optionally, the accessory substrate may have one or more
stoppers 1270 attached thereto. The stoppers may prevent the
keepsakes 1260 from sliding past the stoppers. The stopper may
prevent keepsakes from sliding off the substrate when the substrate
is in an open configuration on the wallet.
[0148] FIG. 12B shows an example of a storage accessory with
sliding keepsakes, in accordance with an embodiment of the
invention. The storage accessory 1290 may be any kind of accessory
capable of storing one or more items within an interior. The
storage accessory may have a body 1291. The storage accessory may
have an interior. A characteristic of the interior of the storage
accessory may have a different characteristic (e.g., color,
texture, material, finish) than the exterior surface of the storage
accessory, or may share one or more characteristics with the
exterior surface of the storage accessory exterior body.
[0149] The storage accessory may have an accessory substrate 1292
that may accept one or more sliding keepsakes 1293. The accessory
substrate may have a first end 1294 and a second end 1295. The ends
may be permanently affixed to the storage accessory body, or may be
removably attached to the storage accessory body. One end may be
permanently affixed while the other end may be removably attached.
For example, a first end may be permanently affixed while the
second end may be removably attached. The accessory substrate may
be attached to the storage accessory body in any manner, as
described for the attachment to the handbag body. Any description
of how or where an accessory substrate may be attached to a handbag
body may apply to any other storage accessory, such as a cosmetics
bag, or other portion of the handbag, such as a strap, or zipper.
For instance, the accessory substrate may be substantially centered
on the storage accessory body. Alternatively the accessory
substrate may be off-center. The accessory substrate may be at any
vertical position along the wallet face. The accessory substrate
may have a short plate or strap configuration, or may be a longer
plate or strap. The longer plate or strap may completely or
partially encircle the storage accessory body. The accessory
substrate may be attached to the storage accessory body via a
single connection point or multiple connection points.
[0150] Optionally, the accessory substrate may have one or more
stoppers attached thereto. The stoppers may prevent the keepsakes
from sliding past the stoppers. The stopper may prevent keepsakes
from sliding off the substrate when the substrate is in an open
configuration on the wallet. Alternatively, no stoppers are
needed.
[0151] FIG. 17 shows additional examples of storage accessories
configured to accept sliding keepsakes, in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention. The storage accessories 1700a, 1700b,
1700c, 1700d may have any shape or form factor, such as those
illustrated or described herein, or as known in the art. The
storage accessories may have different sizes, straps or handles,
enclosures, shapes, interior volumes, or other types of variations.
The storage accessories may be configured to be held in a hand,
held by handles or straps, worn on a shoulder, or over both
shoulders, or across the body.
[0152] The storage accessories may comprise one or more accessory
substrates 1730a, 1730b, 1730c, 1730d configured to accept one or
more keepsakes 1760a, 1760c, 1760d that may slide onto the
accessory substrates. Any characteristics of the accessory
substrates and/or keepsakes as described elsewhere herein may
apply. The accessory substrates may be provided on a front surface,
back surface, side surface, top surface, and/or bottom surface of a
storage accessory.
[0153] The storage accessory may be a cosmetics bag, wallet,
clutch, handbag, tote, backpack or any other type of storage
accessory, such as those described elsewhere herein. The storage
accessory may have a closure. For instance, the storage accessory
may have a zippered closure, or a closure facilitated with flaps,
buttons, magnetic connectors, snap-locks, ties, inserts, or any
other type of closure.
[0154] FIG. 13 provides examples of an accessory substrate on an
underlying surface, in accordance with embodiments of the
invention. The underlying surface may be on a storage accessory
body (e.g., handbag body, wallet body, toiletry bag body, camera
bag body, pet carrier body, etc.), storage accessory chain, or
storage accessory strap or handle. The underlying surface may be a
substantially flat or curved surface. The underlying surface may be
rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible. The underlying surface may be
formed from any material, such as those described elsewhere
herein.
[0155] FIG. 13A shows an example of an accessory substrate 1330 in
a closed configuration. The accessory substrate may have a first
end 1340 and a second end 1350. The first end may be permanently
affixed to an underlying surface, or may be removably attached to
the underlying surface. The second end may be removably attached to
the underlying surface. Both ends may be attached to the underlying
surface when the accessory substrate is in a closed configuration.
One or more keepsakes 1360 may be on the accessory substrate. The
keepsakes may not be capable of sliding off the accessory substrate
when the accessory substrate is in the closed configuration. The
keepsakes may slide between the two end connection points.
[0156] FIG. 13B shows an example of an accessory substrate 1330 in
an open configuration. The accessory substrate may be capable of
moving between an open and a closed configuration. The accessory
substrate may rotate about or pivot around a first end 1340 of the
accessory substrate. The second end 1350 may detach from a fastener
1370. The rotation at the first end may occur about any axis of
rotation. For example, the axis of rotation may be orthogonal to an
underlying surface onto which the accessory substrate is attached.
The axis of rotation may be orthogonal to a surface of the
accessory substrate. The accessory substrate may be able to rotate
while remaining substantially flush against an underlying surface.
The accessory substrate may be able to rotate while deviating from
the underlying surface by less than about 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15
degrees, 20 degrees, or 30 degrees. The accessory substrate may
rotate about the axis by greater than 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15
degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 75
degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 150 degrees, or 180 degrees.
[0157] The second end 1350 may removably attach to an underlying
surface in any manner. A fastener 1370 is provided by way of
example. Any description of a fastener may apply to any other type
of removable attachment, as described elsewhere herein. For
instance, hook and loop fasteners (VELCRO.RTM.), snap-fits,
buttons, loops, hooks, friction-fits, slide-locks, threads, clasps,
clamps, safety pins or any other type of mechanisms may be
used.
[0158] The keepsakes 1360 may slide on or off the accessory
substrate while the accessory substrate is in an open
configuration. The keepsakes may be prevented from sliding off a
first end 1340 that may still be attached to the underlying
surface. The keepsakes may slide on or off a second end that may be
detached from a fastener.
[0159] FIG. 13C shows an example of an accessory substrate 1330 in
an open configuration. The accessory substrate may be capable of
moving between an open and a closed configuration. The accessory
substrate may rotate about or pivot around a first end 1340 of the
accessory substrate. The second end 1350 may detach from a fastener
1370. The rotation at the first end may occur about any axis of
rotation. For example, the axis of rotation 1380 may be along an
underlying surface onto which the accessory substrate is attached.
The axis of rotation may be parallel to the underlying surface. The
axis of rotation may be parallel to a surface of the accessory
substrate. The axis of rotation may be substantially vertical in
relation to a global reference frame (e.g., parallel to a direction
of gravity). The accessory substrate may be able to rotate while
being folded away from an underlying surface. The accessory
substrate may be able to rotate while deviating from the underlying
surface by at least about 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20
degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 75 degrees, or 90
degrees.
[0160] The second end 1350 may removably attach to an underlying
surface in any manner. A fastener 1370 is provided by way of
example. Any description of a fastener may apply to any other type
of removable attachment, as described elsewhere herein. For
instance, hook and loop fasteners (VELCRO.RTM.), snap-fits,
buttons, hooks, loops, friction-fits, slide-locks, threads, clasps,
clamps, safety pins or any other type of mechanisms may be used.
Some instance may be provided between the second end and the
fastener when the accessory substrate rotates about the axis of
rotation. The distance may be in a direction orthogonal to an
underlying surface.
[0161] The keepsakes 1360 may slide on or off the accessory
substrate while the accessory substrate is in an open
configuration. The keepsakes may be prevented from sliding off a
first end 1340 that may still be attached to the underlying
surface. The keepsakes may slide on or off a second end that may be
detached from a fastener.
[0162] FIG. 14 provides additional examples of an accessory
substrate on an underlying surface, in accordance with embodiments
of the invention. As previously described, one or more ends of the
accessory substrate may be removable from an underlying surface.
For instance, they may be removed via disconnection from a fastener
portion that is attached to the underlying surface. For instance,
for a snap-fit, a snap feature on an end of an accessory substrate
may be able to click in or click out of a corresponding snap
feature on an underlying surface.
[0163] FIG. 14A provides an example of an accessory substrate that
may be held against an underlying surface without requiring a
fastener on the underlying surface. For instance, an accessory
substrate may have a first end 1440 and a second end 1450. One or
more keepsakes 1460 may slide on or off the accessory substrate.
The first end may be permanently affixed to an underlying surface,
or may be removably attached to an underlying surface. The second
end may be removably attached to the underlying surface. In one
example, a loop 1470 may be provided that may hold the second end
against the underlying surface. The end may slide under the loop
and straighten out the accessory substrate to cause the loop to
hold the second end against the surface. The end may slide back
under the loop and flex to remove the accessory surface from the
loop. The accessory substrate may be formed from a flexible or
semi-rigid material that may flex or bend. This may permit the
second end of the accessory substrate to traverse the loop. The
accessory substrate may move between an open and closed position by
permitting the end of the accessory substrate to slide through the
loop.
[0164] FIG. 14B provides another example of an accessory substrate,
which may include an intermediary end. For instance, the accessory
substrate 1430 may have a first end 1440 and a second end 1450b.
Alternatively, the accessory substrate itself may form a loop
without having a first end and second end. Any description herein
of an accessory substrate with a first and second end may also
apply to an accessory substrate that may form a continuous loop.
The first end and second ends may both be permanently affixed to
the underlying surface, may both be removably attached to the
underlying surface, or one end may be permanently affixed while the
other end is removably attached. One or more keepsakes 1460 may
slide on or off the accessory substrate.
[0165] The accessory substrate may have an intermediary end 1450a.
The accessory substrate may have two more portions 1430a, 1430b
that are separable from one another. The keepsakes 1460 may slide
on or off the accessory substrate at the intermediary end. In some
instances, while the accessory substrate is in a closed
configuration, the intermediary end may be held in place against
the rest of the accessory substrate. The two or more portions of
the accessory substrate may be held together while the accessory
substrate is in a closed position. For instance, a buckle 1480 may
be used to hold an intermediary end against the rest of the
accessory substrate. Other mechanisms such as hook and loop
fasteners (VELCRO.RTM.), loops, hooks, clips, clasps, pins,
buttons, snap-fits, friction-fits, magnets, clamps, threaded
features, twisting features, may be used to hold the intermediary
end against the rest of the accessory substrate. The mechanism that
may hold the intermediary end may cause the intermediary end on a
first portion of the accessory substrate to be removably attachable
from a second portion of the accessory substrate. The accessory
substrate may be in an open position when the intermediary end on a
first portion of the accessory substrate is detached from a second
portion of the accessory substrate. The accessory substrate may be
in an open position when the portions of the accessory substrate
are separated from one another. The keepsakes may slide on and off
while the accessory substrate is in the open configuration. The
keepsakes may slide on or off via the intermediary end, without
sliding on or off via the first end 1440 or the second end
1450.
[0166] Such illustrations are provided by way of example only and
are not limiting. Any description of accessory substrates or
elongate members may apply to any other type of accessory substrate
or elongate member as described herein. Similarly, any description
of any type of storage accessory (e.g., handbag) may apply to any
other type of storage accessory as described herein, and vice
versa.
[0167] In some embodiments, keepsakes may be pieces without moving
parts. In some embodiments, keepsakes are provided as single
integral pieces. Alternatively, keepsakes may be multiple parts
that are attached to one another. In other embodiments, keepsakes
may include moving parts. The parts may move with aid of manual
intervention by a user. Alternatively, the parts may move without
manual intervention by the user. In some instances, electrical,
magnetic, or mechanical components may be provided that may cause
moving of parts.
[0168] FIG. 15 shows an example of a keepsake that may be
timepiece, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG.
15A shows a front side of a timepiece keepsake 1510 on an accessory
substrate 1500. FIG. 15B shows a back side of a timepiece keepsake
on an accessory substrate.
[0169] The timepiece keepsake 1510 may be a clock. The timepiece
keepsake may be worn as a watch on a portion of a storage
accessory. The timepiece keepsake may include arms 1520, 1530, 1540
that may move. The arms may be mechanically or electrically driven.
In some instances, the arms may include an arm representative of
the hour, an arm representative of the minute, and/or an arm
representative of the second. In some instances, the timepiece
keepsake may include a winder 1550 that may permit a user to
mechanically wind the timepiece.
[0170] The keepsake may include side bars 1560 through which the
accessory substrate may pass. The substrate may pass over a side
bar, under a clock face, and over another side bar. The keepsake
may be shaped and/or dimensioned so that the substrate remains
frictionally fit with the timepiece. The substrate may be bent or
forced into a curve by the shape of the timepiece. The friction may
be sufficient to prevent the timepiece keepsake from sliding around
the substrate when a storage accessory is carried. The side bars
may optionally not overlap with the face of the timepiece.
Alternatively, the side bars may have other configurations which
may permit overlapping with the face of the timepiece.
[0171] The timepiece may be slid onto an accessory substrate as
illustrated. The timepiece may optionally be slid onto various
types of accessory substrates, such as multi-point attachment
accessory substrates, or single-point attachment (i.e., dangling)
accessory substrates. In some instances, the timepiece may be
combined with other keepsakes on the accessory substrate. In some
instances, natural spacing may be provided between the keepsakes,
including the timepiece keepsake. For example, if another keepsake
is slid next to the timepiece keepsake, the front face of the
timepiece and the adjacent keepsake may not contact one another.
The side bar of the timepiece and the rear side of the keepsake may
optionally contact one another.
[0172] In some alternative embodiments, the timepiece keepsake may
have a rear side that is designed similar to the rear side of the
other keepsakes as described elsewhere herein. A rear side of a
timepiece keepsake may optionally overlap with a front side of the
timepiece keepsake. For example, if a cross-section is taken of the
timepiece, the front side and the rear side of the timepiece may
appear simultaneously. The rear side may include cross bars that
may extend along the entire width of the substrate. Any description
herein of other keepsakes may apply to the timepiece keepsake.
[0173] FIG. 16 shows an example of a keepsake that may be a locket
1610, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The locket
keepsake may be applied to an accessory substrate 1600, such as a
handbag substrate. The locket keepsake may slide onto any type of
accessory substrate described herein. The locket keepsake may slide
on or off the substrate in any manner as described elsewhere
herein. In some instances, the locket substrate may frictionally
fit with the substrate so that the locket does not slide around
when the storage accessory is carried by the wearer. The locket may
remain in place unless the wearer pushes or pulls the locket
keepsake.
[0174] The locket keepsake may include a cover portion 1620 and a
base portion 1630 that may move relative to one another. For
example, the cover portion may move about a pivot point 1640
between an open position and a closed position. In some instances,
an inner surface of the cover portion and an inner surface of the
base portion may receive a picture or other item therein. The
locket may be used to store photos or other items.
[0175] In some instances, the locket keepsake may have a rear side,
as described for other keepsakes. In some instances, the locket
substrate back side may have a greater length than the front face
of the locket. In some instances, if a keepsake is slid onto the
substrate adjacent to the locket, the front face of the keepsake
and the front side of the locket may not come into contact, even
when the rear sides of the keepsake and the locket have come into
contact. Thus, natural spacing may be provided. Alternatively, the
front side of the keepsake and the locket may come into contact
with one another.
[0176] Any combination of storage accessories, accessory
substrates, and keepsakes may be used to provide personalized
storage accessories. The keepsakes may be sliding keepsakes that
may attach to the accessory substrate by being slid onto the
substrate from an end of the substrate. The keepsakes may be
swapped out for one another on a substrate. Similarly, different
accessory substrates may be used with selected keepsakes. The
accessory substrates may or may not be swapped out from storage
accessories. The keepsakes may be swapped out for one another on a
storage accessory.
[0177] It should be understood from the foregoing that, while
particular implementations have been illustrated and described,
various modifications can be made thereto and are contemplated
herein. It is also not intended that the invention be limited by
the specific examples provided within the specification. While the
invention has been described with reference to the aforementioned
specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the preferable
embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting
sense. Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the
invention are not limited to the specific depictions,
configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which
depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. Various
modifications in form and detail of the embodiments of the
invention will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. It is
therefore contemplated that the invention shall also cover any such
modifications, variations and equivalents.
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