U.S. patent application number 16/705719 was filed with the patent office on 2020-09-10 for transformable clothing.
The applicant listed for this patent is Ping Wu. Invention is credited to Ping Wu.
Application Number | 20200281290 16/705719 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004856347 |
Filed Date | 2020-09-10 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200281290 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wu; Ping |
September 10, 2020 |
TRANSFORMABLE CLOTHING
Abstract
A transformable article of clothing wearable by a person in a
plurality of configurations. According to various embodiments, a
transformable article of clothing comprises a central tubular
portion coupled to a first member and a second member is
configurable between a shawl and a scarf. In another embodiment, a
transformable article of clothing comprises a first continuous loop
coupled to a second continuous loop and is configurable among a
hat, a hood, a scarf and a hand warmer. In yet another embodiment,
an article of clothing comprises a mask portion and an ear muffler
portion selectively retained on ears of the wearer. In still
another embodiment, a transformable glove comprises a hand portion,
a thumb portion, a first finger portion and a second finger portion
with an opening in at least one of thumb and finger portions.
Inventors: |
Wu; Ping; (San Rafael,
CA) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Wu; Ping |
San Rafael |
CA |
US |
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|
Family ID: |
1000004856347 |
Appl. No.: |
16/705719 |
Filed: |
December 6, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15786363 |
Oct 17, 2017 |
10499695 |
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16705719 |
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14163736 |
Jan 24, 2014 |
9826787 |
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15786363 |
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12955160 |
Nov 29, 2010 |
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14163736 |
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61265996 |
Dec 2, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 19/0017 20130101;
A41D 15/00 20130101; A41D 13/11 20130101; A41D 23/00 20130101; A42B
1/206 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A41D 15/00 20060101
A41D015/00; A41D 13/11 20060101 A41D013/11; A41D 19/00 20060101
A41D019/00; A41D 23/00 20060101 A41D023/00; A42B 1/20 20060101
A42B001/20 |
Claims
1. A transformable article of clothing, comprising: a wrist portion
including a wrist opening configured to receive a hand of a wearer;
a hand portion attached to the wrist portion; a thumb portion
coupled to the hand portion, the thumb portion configured to
receive a thumb of the wearer's hand; a first finger portion
coupled to the hand portion, the first finger portion configured to
receive a first finger of the wearer's hand, the first finger
portion defining a first finger opening, the first finger opening
sized and positioned so as to allow a tip of the first finger of
the wearer's hand to pass therethrough to the outside of the
transformable article of clothing; a second finger portion coupled
to the hand portion, the second finger portion configured to
receive a second finger of the wearer's hand, the second finger
portion defining a second finger opening, the second finger opening
sized and positioned so as to allow a tip of the second finger of
the wearer's hand to pass therethrough to the outside of the
transformable article of clothing.
2. The transformable article of clothing of claim 1, wherein the
first finger portion includes a first finger portion end configured
to selectively cover the tip of the first finger of the wearer's
hand when the tip of the first finger is not passing through the
first finger opening.
3. The transformable article of clothing of claim 2, wherein the
second finger portion includes a second finger portion end
configured to selectively cover the tip of the second finger of the
wearer's hand when the tip of the second finger is not passing
through the first finger opening.
4. The transformable article of clothing of claim 3, wherein the
first finger opening is sized and positioned so as to allow
respective tips of a forefinger and a middle finger of the wearer's
hand to pass therethrough to the outside of the transformable
article of clothing.
5. The transformable article of clothing of claim 4, wherein the
second finger opening is sized and positioned so as to allow
respective tips of a ring finger and a little finger of the
wearer's hand to pass therethrough to the outside of the
transformable article of clothing.
6. The transformable article of clothing of claim 3, wherein the
first finger opening is sized and positioned so as to allow a tip
of the forefinger of the wearer to pass therethrough to the outside
of the transformable article of clothing.
7. The transformable article of clothing of claim 6, wherein the
second finger opening is sized and positioned so as to allow
respective tips of a middle finger, a ring finger and a little
finger of the wear to pass therethrough to the outside of the
transformable article of clothing.
8. The transformable article of clothing of claim 2, wherein the
thumb portion defines a thumb opening, the thumb opening sized and
positioned so as to allow a tip of the thumb of the wearer's hand
to pass therethrough to the outside of the transformable article of
clothing.
9. The transformable article of clothing of claim 2, wherein the
first finger opening and the second finger opening are located on a
palmal side of the transformable article of clothing.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 15/786,363, filed Oct. 17, 2017, which is a divisional of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/163,736, filed Jan. 24, 2014,
now U.S. Pat. No. 9,826,787, which is a divisional of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/955,160, filed Nov. 29, 2010, which claims
priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/265,996
filed Dec. 2, 2009. The contents of each application are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of
garments. More particularly, the present invention relates to
garments wearable in a plurality of configurations.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This section is intended to provide a background or context
to the invention that is recited in the claims. The description
herein may include concepts that could be pursued, but are not
necessarily ones that have been previously conceived or pursued.
Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, what is described in
this section is not prior art to the description and claims in this
application and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in
this section.
[0004] Various conventional garments that may be worn to protect a
person from ambient conductions or to achieve a particular
appearance are well known in the art. For instance, numerous
examples of scarves, hats, ear mufflers, masks, shawls and gloves
are of course known in the art. Conventionally, these articles of
clothing may be worn by a person and serve a single purpose for the
wearer. By way of example, a hat is worn by a person to cover a
portion of the head of the wearer. Various hats are known in the
art intended for various conditions, including hats to protected a
wearer from inclement conditions. Ear mufflers may worn to protect
the ears of the wearer from cold temperatures. A conventional scarf
may be worn about the neck and a portion of the face of a person to
protect the neck and face of the wearer from cold temperatures
and/or wind when outdoors. A shawl can be placed over the shoulders
and a portion of the torso and arms of the wearer.
[0005] Various adaptable garments are also known. For example, a
number of examples of a jacket or coat with a hood that is
selectively receivable on the head of a wearer are known.
Additionally, various articles of clothing have been developed that
may be selectively reversed by a wearer in order to expose
different surfaces, which may be of different colors and/or
textures. Still other articles of clothing may include detachable
components. For example, various coats with detachable sleeves and
hats with detachable masks are known. Other articles of clothing
may include portions that may be folded, zipped, buttoned or
otherwise manipulated with respect to the article to provide
greater or lesser body coverage depending on ambient conditions or
the preferences of the wearer.
SUMMARY
[0006] Various embodiments of the present invention comprise
transformable clothing that may be selectively configured by a
wearer. Embodiments of the transformable garments include a
transformable article of clothing comprising a central fabric
portion. The central fabric portion defines a tubular member having
a longitudinal length, the tubular member selectively reversible
between a first configuration, where a first face substantially
defines the external surface of the tubular member, and a reversed
configuration, where the first face substantially defines the
internal surface of tubular member. The transformable article of
clothing further comprises a first fabric member and a second
fabric member. The first fabric member includes a first portion
coupled to the first face along at least a portion of the
longitudinal length, and the second fabric member includes a second
portion coupled to the first face along at least a portion of the
longitudinal length. In the first configuration, the first fabric
member and the second fabric member each extend from face of the
tubular member. In the reversed configuration, the tubular member
is configured to receive the first fabric member and the second
fabric member.
[0007] In another set of embodiments, a transformable accessory is
configurable as a hat and a scarf for a wearer. The transformable
accessory comprises a first continuous loop defining a first
opening and a second opening substantially opposite the first
opening. The first continuous loop is configured to be selectively
received about the neck of a wearer, with the neck extending
through the first opening and the second opening. The transformable
accessory further comprises a second continuous loop extending
through the first opening and the second opening and received by
the first continuous loop. The second continuous loop defines a
third opening, and the second continuous loop is configured to be
selectively received about at least a portion of the head of the
wearer. The first continuous loop is wearable as a scarf, and the
second continuous loop is simultaneously wearable as a hat.
[0008] In still another set of embodiments, a transformable
accessory is wearable on the head of a person. The transformable
accessory comprises a hat portion having a periphery, the periphery
defining an opening at a first end of the hat portion, a closed end
terminating substantially opposite the opening and configured to
receive a portion the head of the wearer and a lateral portion
attached to the periphery and extending from the periphery distal
from the closed end. The transformable accessory further comprises
a lower portion having a first end coupled to the hat portion and a
second end substantially opposite the first end. The second end is
selectively engageable with one of the hat portion and a portion of
the wearer. The transformable accessory is selectively wearable in
a first configuration and a second configuration.
[0009] In another set of embodiments, a transformable glove is
configured to be worn on the hand of a person. The transformable
glove comprises a wrist portion having an open first end configured
to receive the hand of the wearer and a second end opposite the
first end. The wrist portion is configured to surround at least a
portion of the wrist of the wearer. A hand portion is attached at
the second end and is sized to cover the palm and back of the hand
of the wearer. The hand portion includes a thumb portion opening
configured to receive the thumb of the wearer. The transformable
glove further comprises a first finger portion opening configured
to receive at least one finger of the wearer and a second finger
portion opening configured to receive the remaining fingers of the
wearer. A thumb portion is attached at the thumb portion opening
and is configured to cover the thumb of the wearer The first finger
portion is attached at the first finger portion opening and is
configured to cover at least one finger of the wearer. The second
finger portion is attached at the second finger portion opening and
configured to cover the remaining fingers of the wearer. An exit is
formed in at least one of the thumb portion, the first finger
portion, and the second finger portion, with the at least one exit
configured to allow selective extension of the respective at least
one thumb and finger portions from the transformable glove.
[0010] In yet another set of embodiments, a combination garment for
covering at least a portion of the face and ears of a wearer
comprises a central portion. The central portion is configured to
extend from a location forward of the ears of a wearer and across
the face of the wearer such that the central portion is configured
to substantially covers the cheeks and at least a portion of the
nose of the wearer and extend downwardly beyond the mouth to cover
at least a portion of the chin of the wearer. The combination
garment further comprises a pair of ear portions attached to the
central portion. Each of the pair of ear portions is configured to
substantially cover the external surface of each ear of the wearer.
Each of the pair of ear portions includes an engagement portion
that is configured to selectively wrap around the periphery of the
helix portion of each ear of the wearer, thereby enabling selective
attachment of the combination garment to the wearer.
[0011] In still another set of embodiments, a transformable scarf
is configured to be worn about the neck of a wearer. The
transformable scarf comprises a primary clothing member defining a
first face and a second face opposite the first face. The primary
clothing member is characterized by a length and a width shorter
than the length. A collar portion is disposed along a portion of
the length. The primary clothing member includes a plurality of
openings through the first face and the second face and is disposed
along a portion of at least one of the length and the width. The
transformable scarf further comprises a secondary clothing member
that is selectively receivable by the plurality of openings such
that a first portion of the secondary clothing member is disposed
over a portion of the first face and a second portion of the
secondary clothing member is disposed over a portion of the second
face. The primary clothing member is wearable about the neck of the
wearer
[0012] These and other features of the invention, together with the
organization and manner of operation thereof, will become apparent
from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements have like
numerals throughout the several drawings described below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1A is front view of a transformable article of clothing
worn in a first configuration constructed in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a front view of
a transformable article of clothing of FIG. 1A worn in a second
configuration;
[0014] FIG. 2A is a top view of the transformable article of
clothing of FIG. 1A in the configuration of FIG. 1A and shown fully
extended, and FIG. 2B is a top view of the transformable article of
clothing of FIG. 2A in the configuration of FIG. 2B and shown fully
extended;
[0015] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the transformable article
of clothing of FIG. 1A in the configuration of FIG. 1A and shown
fully extended, FIG. 3B is a close-up view of a portion of the
transformable article of clothing of FIG. 3A;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the transformable
article of clothing of FIG. 2A;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a view of the transformable article of clothing of
FIG. 1A, in the process of being transformed from the first
configuration to second configuration;
[0018] FIG. 6A is a side view of a transformable article of
clothing worn in a first configuration constructed in accordance
with another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6B is a side
view of the transformable article of clothing of FIG. 6A worn in a
second configuration, FIG. 6C is a side view of the transformable
article of clothing of FIG. 6A worn in a third configuration, FIG.
6D is a front view of the transformable article of clothing of FIG.
6A worn in a fourth configuration, FIG. 6E is a front view of the
transformable article of clothing of FIG. 6A worn in a fifth
configuration, and FIG. 6F is a front view of the transformable
article of clothing of FIG. 6A worn in a sixth configuration;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a first perspective view of the transformable
article of clothing of FIG. 6A;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a second perspective view of the transformable
article of clothing of FIG. 6A;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a side view of the transformable article of
clothing of FIG. 6A;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a front view of the transformable article of
clothing of FIG. 6A;
[0023] FIG. 11A is a front view of a first look of an article of
clothing and constructed in accordance with yet another embodiment
of the present invention, FIG. 11B is a front view of a second look
of the article of clothing of FIG. 11A, FIG. 11C is a side view
showing the second look of FIG. 11B, FIG. 11D is a front view of a
third look of the article of clothing of FIG. 11A, FIG. 11E is a
front view of a fourth look of the article of clothing of FIG. 11A,
FIG. 11F is a side view showing the fourth look of FIG. 11E, FIG.
11G is a front view of a fifth look of the article of clothing of
FIG. 11A, and FIG. 11H is a side view showing the fifth look of
FIG. 11G;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a front view of the article of clothing shown
generally in FIGS. 11A-11G;
[0025] FIG. 13 is a rear view of the article of clothing of FIG.
12;
[0026] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the article of clothing of
FIG. 12;
[0027] FIG. 15A is a front view of an embodiment of a left
transformable glove worn in a first configuration constructed in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG.
15B is a front view of the right transformable glove worn in the
first configuration according the embodiment of FIG. 15A;
[0028] FIG. 16A is a front view of the left transformable glove of
FIG. 15A worn in a second configuration, and FIG. 16B is a front
view of the right transformable glove of FIG. 15B worn in the
second configuration;
[0029] FIG. 17A is a front view of another embodiment of a left
transformable glove worn in the second configuration constructed in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG.
17B is a rear view of the left transformable glove of FIG. 17A;
[0030] FIG. 18A is a front view of a transformable mask hat worn in
a first configuration constructed in accordance with yet another
embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 18B is a front view of
the transformable article of clothing of FIG. 18A worn in a second
configuration, and FIG. 18C is a front view of the transformable
article of clothing of FIG. 6A worn in a third configuration;
[0031] FIG. 19A is a first perspective view of a transformable hat
and ear muffler worn in a first configuration constructed in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, and
FIG. 19B is a second perspective view of the transformable hat and
ear muffler of FIG. 19A worn in a second configuration;
[0032] FIG. 20 is left side view of the transformable hat and ear
muffler in the configuration shown in FIG. 19A;
[0033] FIG. 21 is right side view of the transformable hat and ear
muffler in the configuration shown in FIG. 19A;
[0034] FIG. 22 is top view of a transformable scarf constructed
according to still another embodiment of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 23 is a bottom view of the transformable scarf of FIG.
22;
[0036] FIG. 24A a front view of the transformable scarf of FIG. 22
worn in a first configuration, FIG. 24B is a front view of the
transformable scarf of FIG. 22 worn in a second configuration, FIG.
24C is a front view of the transformable scarf of FIG. 22 worn in a
third configuration, and FIG. 24D is a front view of the
transformable scarf of FIG. 22 worn in a fourth configuration;
[0037] FIG. 25A is a rear view of a transformable article of
clothing constructed according to another embodiment of the present
invention, and FIG. 25B is a partial front view of the
transformable article of clothing of FIG. 25A; and
[0038] FIG. 26A is a front view of the transformable article
clothing of FIGS. 25A and 25B worn in a first configuration, FIG.
26B is a front view of the transformable article of clothing of
FIGS. 25A and 25B worn in a second configuration, and FIG. 26C is a
front view of the transformable article of clothing of FIGS. 25A
and 25B worn in a third configuration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
[0039] FIGS. 1A-5 illustrate an transformable article of clothing
10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The
transformable article of clothing 10 depicted in FIGS. 1A-5
comprises an accessory that may be selectively configured such that
the garment may be worn as a shawl in a first configuration and may
be worn as a scarf in a second configuration. FIG. 1A depicts the
transformable article of clothing 10 in an exemplary first
configuration where a person may wear the garment as a shawl 10a.
In this configuration, the transformable article of clothing 10 may
take a generally rectangular form. As shown in FIG. 1A, the shawl
10a may be draped over the shoulders of the wearer and is
proportioned to substantially cover the shoulders and at least a
portion of the arms of the wearer. FIG. 1B depicts the
transformable article of clothing 10 in an exemplary second
configuration where a person may wear the same garment, after its
reconfiguration, as a scarf 10b. In this configuration, the
transformable article of clothing 10 may be of a generally
elongated tube form. As shown in FIG. 1B, the scarf 10b may be
wrapped about the neck of the wearer and may be of a length such
that the ends of the scarf 10b extend downward over a portion of
the torso of the wearer.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 2A, the transformable article of clothing
10 comprises a central portion 100, a first member 110 attached to
the central portion 100 and a second member 120 coupled to the
central portion 100. The central portion 100 includes a pair of
lateral edges 101 extending the length of the central portion 100.
As depicted in FIG. 4, the central portion 100 generally comprises
a first surface 102 and a second surface 103 that are coupled along
the lateral edges 101. As such, the central portion 100 forms an
elongated tube having a first face 104 and a second face 105. As
explained in detail below, depending on the configuration of the
transformable article of clothing 10, the first face 104 or the
second face 105 may define the external surface of the central
portion 100. The central portion includes ends 106a and 106b
disposed at each end of the tubular member.
[0041] FIG. 3A shows the first member 110 attached to the central
portion 100 along one of the lateral edges 101 and the second
member 120 attached to the central portion 100 along the other
lateral edge 101. As shown, the first member 110 and the second
member 120 are oppositely disposed on the central portion 100. That
is, the first member 110 is attached to the central portion 100 at
location on the tubular member that is offset about 180.degree.
from the location of attachment of the second member 120 to the
central portion 100. However, other arrangements may be constructed
where the first member 110 and the second member 120 are attached
to the central portion 100 and separated by less than about
180.degree.. Each of the first member 110 and the second member 120
extend outwardly from the central portion 100 to define a width of
the transformable article of clothing 10. As shown in FIGS. 2A and
3, the first member 110 and the second member 120 may be of equal
length and attached to the central portion 100 along the entire
length of the central member. As depicted, the first member 110
and/or the second member 120 may of a greater length than the
central portion 100, with a portion of the first member and/or the
second member extending beyond one or more of the ends
106a/106b.
[0042] In the depicted embodiment, the central portion 100 is
substantially formed by the first member 110 and the second member
120. With reference to FIGS. 2A and 4, each of the first member 110
and the second member 120 include an inner portion 115 medially
disposed along a length of the transformable article of clothing
10. The inner portion 115 of the first member 110 is overlapped
with the inner portion 115' of the second member 120 as shown in
FIG. 4. The first member 110 includes a first edge 111 that defines
the periphery of the inner portion 115. The second member 120
similarly includes a second edge 121 that defines the periphery of
the inner portion 115' of the second member 120. The first member
110 is attached to the second member proximate the first edge 111.
The second member 120 is also attached to the first member 110
proximate the second edge 121. Thus, the tubular member is formed
with the inner portions 115 and 115' each forming about one half of
the surface of the tubular member.
[0043] The transformable article of clothing 10 is not limited to
the above described construction. For example, in other
embodiments, the central portion 100 may be separately formed and
then attached to the first member 110 and the second member 120. In
other embodiments, the central portion 100 may be formed from one
of the first member 110 or the second member 120 by overlapping one
of the members onto itself and attaching the first/second edge
111/121 to the respective member to form a tubular member. The
other member may then be attached to the tubular member. In still
further embodiments, the first member 110 and the second member 120
comprise a single piece and an additional member is overlaid and
attached to the single piece to form the tubular member. The
additional member, for example, may comprise a narrow strip of
material relative to the width of the single piece and may
substantially define half the periphery of the tubular member. The
additional member is attached to the single piece at a first
location and a second location, for example, along substantially
parallel edges defining the length of the additional member.
[0044] As described above and as depicted in FIG. 4, the central
portion 100 may be formed by overlapping a portion of the first
member 110 and the second member 120. As shown in FIG. 3B, the
first member 110 may include a first plurality of openings 112
disposed in the inner portion 115. The first plurality of openings
112 extend into the first member 110 from the first edge 111. As
depicted, the first plurality of openings 112 are rectangular in
shape and orientated substantially perpendicular to the first edge
111, however the first plurality of openings 112 may be angled in
other embodiments and may take other forms, including curved and
peaked shapes. Additionally, the first plurality of openings 112
are of substantially equal width and of equal length. In other
embodiments, however, the first plurality of openings 112 may have
a variety of widths and/or a variety of lengths. The first
plurality of openings 112 define a first plurality of fingers 113.
The length of the first plurality of fingers 113 may be varied with
respect to each of the fingers. As such, the periphery of the first
member 110 may be defined by the combination of the first plurality
of openings 112 and the first plurality of fingers 113.
[0045] Similar to the first member 110, the second member 120 may
include a second plurality of openings disposed in the inner
portion 115'. The second plurality of openings extend into the
second member 120 from the second edge 121. The second plurality of
openings are shaped and orientated to substantially mate with the
first plurality of fingers 113 and may be perpendicular to the
second edge 121 or angled. As such, in the depicted embodiment, the
second plurality of openings are rectangular and offset with
respect to the first plurality of openings 112 such that the second
plurality of openings align with the first plurality of fingers
113. The second plurality of openings are also of a width and
length to receive the first plurality of fingers 113. The second
plurality of openings define a second plurality of fingers 123. The
second plurality of fingers are orientated and shaped to
substantially mate with the first plurality of openings 112. Thus,
the first plurality of openings 112 receive the second plurality of
fingers.
[0046] The above described configuration of the first member 110
and the second member 120 forms an alternating and interlocking
arrangement that may form at least a portion of the surface
defining the tubular member. As depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the
first member 110 and the second member 120 may be of different
colors and/or materials to form a visual or textural pattern over
the central portion 100. In one embodiment, the visual pattern may
simulate the look of a piano keyboard with alternating colors and
the first plurality of fingers 113 and the second plurality of
fingers 123 of variable length. In other embodiments, the central
portion 100 may be constructed to depict different configurations
and/or patterns.
[0047] The transformable article of clothing 10 may be constructed
from a variety of materials, including materials typical of
garments such as a sweater and accessory garments such as scarves,
shawls, and hand warmers. In a particular embodiment, the first
member 110 is constructed of a first material and the second member
120 is substantially constructed of a second material. The first
material possesses different thermal characteristics than the
second material such that the first material provides a greater or
lesser degree of temperature control to the wearer relative to the
second material. For example, relative to the second material, the
first material may be of a greater density, use a smaller diameter
yarn, comprise a tighter weave, possess a greater thickness, and
combinations thereof. As such, when worn in the shawl configuration
depicted in FIG. 1A, the first member 110 constructed of the first
material is thinner and offers greater breathability relative to
the second member 120 that is constructed of the second material.
Thus, in the depicted orientation, the wearer is provided with
additional thermal insulation about a portion of the arms and torso
covered by the first member 110, while the neck and shoulders
covered by the second member 120 are provided with relatively less
thermal insulation from the transformable article of clothing 10.
In response to changing ambient temperature conditions or other
consideration, the transformable article of clothing 10 may be
repositioned by the wearer such that second member 120 is
orientated over a portion of the arm and torso and the first member
110 located about the neck and shoulders of the wearer, thereby
reversing the thermal properties of the garment with respect to the
wearer.
[0048] The transformable article of clothing 10 is selectively
reconfigurable by a wearer or other person between the shawl 10a
configuration depicted in FIG. 1A and the scarf 10b configuration
of FIG. 1B. The transformable article of clothing 10 is changed
from the shawl configuration to the scarf configuration by
reversing the orientation of the central portion 100. That is, in
the shawl configuration, the first face 104 of the tubular member
is on the outside of the central portion 100 and the second face
105 forms the inner surface of the central portion 100. In the
shawl configuration, the tubular member is substantially flat.
[0049] As depicted in FIG. 5, a wearer or other person may
transform transformable article of clothing 10 to the scarf
orientation by inserting a hand in one of the ends, for example the
end 106a, extending the hand within the tubular member of the
central portion 100, and grasping the opposite end 106b or a part
of the central portion 100 proximate the opposite end 106b. The
central portion 100 may be bunched as necessary to shorten its
effective length to allow the opposite end 106b to be grasped as
described. The opposite end 106b is then pulled through the tubular
member and exits the end 106a that was initially entered by the
hand. Thus, the tubular member of the central portion is turned
"inside-out" and the transformable article of clothing 10 is in the
scarf configuration. In this configuration the first face 104 forms
the inner surface of the tubular member and the second face 105 is
on the outside of the central portion. Because the first member 110
and the second member 120 are attached to central member along the
first face 104, the first member 110 and the second member 120 are
at least partially disposed within the tubular member in the scarf
configuration. As shown in FIG. 1B, in embodiments where the first
member 110 and/or the second member 120 have a length greater than
the central portion 100, the first member 110 and/or the second
member 120 may be selectively extend from the central portion 100.
Alternatively, the first member 110 and/or the second member 120
may be stored within the tubular member of the central portion
100.
[0050] The transformable article of clothing 10 is selectively
reconfigurable by a wearer or other person between the scarf
configuration depicted in FIG. 1B and the shawl configuration of
FIG. 1A by again reversing the central portion 100. A wearer or
other person inserts a hand in one of the ends of the central
portion 100, for example the end 106a, grasps a portion of the
first member 110 and/or the second member 120 proximate the other
end 106b and pulls the first member 110 and the second member 120
out from within the tubular portion, thereby reversing the central
portion 100 and releasing the first member 110 and the second
member 120. The first face 104 is reversed to the exterior of the
central portion 100 and the transformable article of clothing 10 is
returned to the shawl orientation.
[0051] FIGS. 6A-10 show a transformable article of clothing 20
according to another embodiment of the present invention. The
transformable article of clothing 20 comprises an accessory that
may be selectively configured to a plurality of configurations
depicted in FIGS. 6A-6F, including a hat in a first configuration,
a hat and scarf in a second configuration, a hat and a hand warmer
in a third configuration and a hood in a fourth configuration.
FIGS. 6A and 6B depict various examples of the transformable
article of clothing 20 in the first configuration worn as a hat.
FIGS. 6C and 6D show examples of the transformable article of
clothing 20 in the second orientation worn as a hat or hood and a
scarf. FIG. 6E shows an example of the transformable article of
clothing 20 worn in the third orientation as a scarf and hand
warmer. FIG. 6F shows an example of the transformable article of
clothing 20 worn in the fourth orientation as a hood.
[0052] With reference to FIGS. 7-10, an embodiment of the
transformable article of clothing 20 is depicted. The transformable
article of clothing 20 generally comprises a first loop 200 and a
second loop 210 coupled to the first loop 200. The first loop 200
comprises a scarf element selectively wearable about the neck of
the wearer and may comprise a continuous loop of material defining
an exterior surface 201 and a channel 202. The first loop 200
further defines a first opening 203 and a second opening 204
substantially opposite the first opening 203. The first loop 200 is
curved and, in a particular embodiment, has a substantially
circular shape.
[0053] The first loop 200 is configured to be passed over the head
of the wearer and received about the neck of wearer. As such, the
first loop 200 may be of a resilient construction where the channel
202, the first opening 203 and the second opening 204 are
substantially sized to fit about the neck of the wearer and to
stretch sufficiently in order to pass over the head of the wearer.
Thus, the natural diameter of the channel 202 may be configured to
be about the diameter of the neck of a human or slightly less than
the diameter of the neck such that the first loop fits snugly about
the neck of the wearer. However, in other embodiments, the channel
202 may have a natural diameter that is about the diameter of a
human head and may be configured to fit loosely about the neck of
the wearer and/or may include a drawstring or tightening element to
reduce the diameter of the channel 202 to a smaller diameter that
fits about the neck of the wearer. Additionally, the first loop 200
may be sized to have length, the distance between the first opening
203 and the second opening 204 to cover the neck of the wearer.
[0054] As depicted in FIG. 6D, the length of the first loop 200 may
be such that is extends below the neck. The first loop 200 may also
be worn to extend over a portion of the face, such as the mouth or
mouth and nose of the wearer. In a particular embodiment, the first
loop 200 comprises a loop of material folded about its
circumference doubling the material onto itself such that the
length of the first loop is selectively adjustable by selecting the
location of the fold.
[0055] The second loop 210 comprises a hat and hood element
selectively wearable on the head of a wearer in various
configurations and usable as a hand warmer in other configurations.
The second loop 210 may be formed from an elongated continuous loop
of material. In the depicted embodiment, the second loop 210 has a
greater diameter than the first loop 200. The second loop 210 is
captured by the first loop 200 similar to adjacent links of a
chain. As shown in FIG. 7, for example, the second loop 210 passes
through first opening 203 and the second opening 204 and a portion
of the second loop 210 resides in the channel 202. The first loop
200 and the second loop 210 need not be fixedly attached relative
to each other. Thus, first loop 200 and second loop 210 are
selectively moveable relative to each other, subject to constraints
of the interaction of the respective intertwined loops. The second
loop 210 defines a third opening 211 along a front periphery 212 of
a lateral surface 213 of the second loop 210. As shown in FIGS. 8
and 10, the lateral surface 213 may be of variable width. As
depicted, a portion of the lateral surface 213 progressively widens
extending from a rear periphery 214 as the second loop 210 extends
distally from the first loop 200. A receiving region 215 is defined
at an end of the second loop 210. The receiving region 215 is
substantially dome shaped and configured to receive the head of the
wearer, with the face of the wearer orientated in the third opening
211 as shown in FIG. 6A-6C for example.
[0056] The second loop 210 may further include a fourth opening
216. As shown in FIG. 10, the fourth opening 216 is located in the
receiving region 215 substantially opposite the third opening 211.
In the depicted embodiment, the fourth opening 216 is smaller than
the third opening 211. As described in more detail below, the
fourth opening 216 may receive a portion of the hair of the wearer
when the transformable article of clothing 20 is worn in a
configuration that includes a hat element such as in FIGS. 6A-6C.
As also described below, the fourth opening 216 may receive the
hand of the wearer when the transformable article of clothing 20 is
worn in a configuration that includes a hand warmer element as
shown in FIG. 6E.
[0057] As illustrated in FIG. 7, an arm 220 may be attached to the
second loop 210 and extend from a portion of the second loop 210
opposite the third opening 211. In the depicted embodiment, the arm
220 is formed by the increasing width of the lateral surface 213
and forms a tubular portion terminating in a fifth opening 221. The
arm 220, opposite the fifth opening 221, is located over the fourth
opening 216. The fifth opening 221 may receive a portion of the
hair of the wearer that is received through the fourth opening 216
when the transformable article of clothing 20 is worn in a
configuration that includes a hat element such as in FIGS. 6A-6C.
Additionally, the fifth opening 221 may receive the other hand of
the wearer when the transformable article of clothing 20 is worn in
a configuration that includes a hand warmer element as shown in
FIG. 6E.
[0058] The second loop 210 may also include a sixth opening 230. As
shown in FIG. 10, the sixth opening 230 is defined by the rear
periphery 214 and is substantially opposite the third opening 211
and located below the fourth opening 216. As depicted, the sixth
opening 230 is larger than the fourth opening 216. However, in
other embodiments the fourth opening 216 and the sixth opening 230
may be of about equal size and in other embodiments the sixth
opening 230 is larger than the fourth opening 216. The sixth
opening 230 may define the opening by which the first loop 200 is
interlocked with the second loop 210. In the depicted embodiment,
the first loop 200 passes through and is captured by the sixth
opening 230. However, in other embodiments, the first loop 200 and
the second loop 210 may otherwise be coupled. The sixth opening 230
may be sized to fit about the neck of the wearer after the head of
the wearer is passed through. As shown in FIG. 6F, the
transformable article of clothing 20 may worn where second loop 210
is placed over the head of the wearer as a hood and the neck of the
wearer extends through the sixth opening 230.
[0059] The transformable article of clothing 20 may be worn where a
portion of the second loop 210 is received on the head of the
wearer. As shown in FIGS. 6A-6D and 6F, the receiving region 215 of
the second loop 210 covers the top portion of the head of the
wearer. FIG. 6A shows a configuration where the second loop 210 is
worn as a hat, with the lateral surfaces 213 falling down from the
head of the wearer and covering the ears and draping over the
shoulders of the wearer. The face of the wearer is accessible via
the third opening 211. The first loop 200 may be located along the
back of the wearer in the configuration depicted in FIG. 6A. A
portion of the hair of the wearer, for example, a "pony tail," may
received by the fourth opening 216, positioned within the arm 220
and may be extended through the fifth opening 221. FIG. 6B shows
the transformable article of clothing 20 with the second loop 210
in substantially the configuration of FIG. 6A and the first loop
200 received on the head of the wearer and located over a portion
of the second loop 210. In the configuration of FIG. 6B, the first
loop 200 may be located to cover the ears of the wearer, providing
an additional layer of material to cover and protect the ears from
cold temperatures and or/wind.
[0060] FIG. 6C shows the transformable article of clothing 20 in a
configuration where the second loop 210 is substantially in the
configuration of FIGS. 6A and 6B and the first loop 200 is worn
about the neck of the wearer. In this configuration, the first loop
200 serves as a scarf, protecting the neck of the wearer from cold
temperature and/or wind. The first loop 200 is passed over the head
of the wearer and the neck resides in the channel 202 that is best
seen in FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 6D shows the transformable article of
clothing 20 in a configuration where the first loop is in
substantially the configuration of FIG. 6C and the second loop 210
is received over the head of the wearer as a hood. In the
configuration of 6D, the head of the wearer passes through the
sixth opening 230 and the head is received in the receiving region
215 of the second loop 210. FIG. 6F depicts a configuration where
the second loop 210 is worn as a hood where the head of the wearer
is passed through the sixth opening 230. In the configuration of
6F, the first loop 200 drapes from the front portion of neck of the
wearer towards the chest.
[0061] FIG. 6E shows the transformable article of clothing 20 in a
configuration where the first loop 200 is worn as a scarf and the
second loop 210 serves as a hand warmer for the wearer. The neck of
the wearer is received in the channel 202 of the first loop 200.
The lateral surfaces 213 of the second loop 210 extend downward
from the first loop 200 across the chest of the wearer. As shown,
the receiving region 215 and the arm 220 may be located near the
waist of the wearer. In this configuration, the wearer may insert
one hand into the third opening 211 and the other hand in the fifth
opening 221, protecting the hands of the wearer from cold
temperatures and/or wind.
[0062] FIGS. 11A-14 show an article of clothing 30 according to
another embodiment of the present invention. The article of
clothing 30 comprises an accessory that may be worn as ear mufflers
and simultaneously as a mask covering a portion of the face of the
wearer. FIGS. 11A-11H depict various embodiments of the article of
clothing 30. In each of the depicted embodiments, the article of
clothing 30 includes a mask portion 300 and a pair of ear portions
310. As shown, for example, in FIGS. 11A, 11E and 11G, the
configuration of the mask portion 300 may be varied to provide
various levels of coverage to the face of the wearer. As described
in more detail below, each of the pair of ear portions 310 is
configured to selectively attach to the ears of the wearer and
maintain the article of clothing 30 in a desired position over a
portion of the face of the wearer.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 12, the mask portion 300 defines an upper
periphery 301 and a lower periphery 302. In the depicted
embodiment, the upper periphery 301 and the lower periphery 302
define a substantially elongated diamond shape that is sized and
shaped to fit over at least a portion of the nose, mouth, chin and
cheeks of the wearer. The mask portion 300 extends from the pair of
ear portions 310 located at opposite ends of the ear portions 310,
where the mask portion 300 is relatively narrow, i.e. the distance
between the upper periphery 301 and the lower periphery 302 is
small. The mask portion 300 progressively grows in width toward the
medial portion of the mask portion 300, where the distance between
the upper periphery 301 and the lower periphery 302 is at its
greatest.
[0064] In addition to the look discussed above, the mask portion
300 may comprise other looks For example, FIGS. 11A-11D depict an
embodiment where an upper periphery 301 of the mask portion is
substantially linear and stretches straight across the face of the
wearer. The lower periphery 302 is curved or comprises angled
segments to substantially follow the jaw line of the wearer. FIGS.
11E and 11F depict an embodiment where the mask portion 300 is of
substantially constant width. Thus, the upper periphery 301 and the
lower periphery 302 define a substantially constant distance
between the pair of ear portions 310. In this embodiment, the width
of the mask portion 300 is configured to cover only at least a
portion of the nose of the wearer, but may alternatively be worn
over the mouth of the wearer. FIGS. 11G and 11H depict an
embodiment where the mask portion 300 is configured to cover a
portion of the nose and the mouth of the wearer. In this
embodiment, the lower periphery 302 is aligned with the lower
portion of each of the pair of ear portions 310. The upper
periphery 301 is aligned with the upper portion of each of the pair
of ear portions 310.
[0065] In any of the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1A-12 and
described above, the mask portion 300 may include a mouth opening
303 as depicted in FIGS. 11G and 11H. The mouth opening 303 may
comprise a horizontally orientated slit in the medial region of the
mask portion 300. The mouth opening 303 is located in the mask
portion 300 such that it would fall over the mouth of the wearer
when worn.
[0066] In any of the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 11A-14 and as
described above, the mask portion 300 may include a central portion
304 as depicted in FIG. 11D. The central portion 304 may be located
proximate the mouth and/or nostril area of the wearer. The central
portion 304 may be configured to allow for easier passage of air
therethrough relative to mask portion 300 residing outside the
central portion 304. As such, the central portion 304 facilitates
the ability of the wearer to speak and/or breath through the mask
portion 300. The central portion 304, for example, may comprise a
plurality of openings or a thinner material, smaller diameter yam,
or less dense weave relative to the mask portion 300 outside the
central portion 304, and combinations thereof.
[0067] With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, the pair of ear portions
310 are located at the ends of the mask portion 300. The pair of
ear portions 310 may be attached to the mask portion 300 or the
article of clothing 30 may be of a substantially integral
construction. Each of the pair of ear portions 310 is configured to
fit over the external portion of the ear of the wearer as seen in
FIGS. 11C, 11F and 11H. As shown, various embodiments of the pair
of ear portions 310 may be constructed. For example, FIG. 11C,
depicts a pair of ear portions 310 that are substantially shaped to
the general form of external portion of the human ear. The pair of
ear portions include a lobe portion 311, an upper ear portion 312
that extends from the upper periphery 301, and a curved posterior
portion 313. FIG. 11F depicts a pair of ear portions 310 with a
less pronounced "ear shape" relative to the embodiment depicted in
FIG. 11C, but including a lobe portion 311 and a curved posterior
portion 313. FIG. 11H depicts an embodiment of the pair of ear
portions 310 where the lower periphery 302 extends to a
substantially straight posterior portion 314 and a curved upper
portion 315.
[0068] As depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14, each of the pair of ear
portions 310 generally define a pocket to receive an ear of the
wearer. The pair of ear portions 310 are intended to provide
protection to the ears of the wearer from cold temperatures and/or
wind. Each of the pair of ear portions 310 define an ear receiving
region 320 and a helix wrap portion 321. The ear receiving region
320 is configured to receive at least a portion of the external
surfaces of the ear. The helix wrap portion 321 is generally curved
such that it extends around the helix of the ear and terminates
behind the ear of the wearer. Thus, the helix wrap portion 321 may
comprise a "C" shaped cross-section, with the helix of the ear of
the wearer captured within. The helix wrap portion 321 may also
extend downwardly to capture at least a portion of the lobule of
the ear of the wearer. Accordingly, the article of clothing 30 is
selectively securable to the wearer by locating the ears of the
wearer in the pair of ear portions 310. The helix wrap portion 321
substantially maintains the location of the article of clothing 30
on the wearer and prevents inadvertent removal.
[0069] The article of clothing 30 may be constructed from a variety
of materials, including materials typical of garments such as a
sweater and accessory garments such as scarves, shawls and ear
mufflers. In a particular embodiment, the article of clothing 30 is
knit from yarn. For at least those embodiments configured to cover
the mouth and nose and lacking the mouth opening 303 and/or the
central portion 304, the mask portion 300 should be breathable to
allow the wearer to readily inhale and exhale through the mask
portion 300.
[0070] The article of clothing 30 may be constructed with a degree
of elasticity such that the article may conform to a plurality of
sizes of wearers, to conform to anatomical differences among
wearers, and to facilitate retention of the article of clothing 30
on the wearer. For example, a degree of elasticity over the mask
portion 300 serves to maintain the article of clothing 30 in its
intended position on the wearer. The ear portion 310 may be
constructed to have properties different from the mask portion 300.
For example, the ear portion 310 may be of a denser construction to
retain the shape of the ear portion and/or to provide greater
thermal protection to the ears of the wearer. Additionally, the ear
portion 310 may be of a construction that is configured to prevent
the ear portion 310 from slipping off the ears of the wearer, yet
possessing elasticity to substantially conform to the shape of the
ear while being comfortable to promote wearability. In a particular
embodiment the ear portion 310 may comprise a substantially rigid
material. It may further be desirable to produce the article of
clothing 30 in a plurality of sizes to accommodate wearers of a
range of sizes.
[0071] FIGS. 15A-17B show a transformable glove 40 according to
another embodiment of the present invention. The transformable
glove 40 comprises a wrist portion 400, a hand portion 410 attached
to the wrist portion 400, a thumb portion 420 coupled to the hand
portion 410, a first finger portion 430 coupled to the hand portion
410 and a second finger portion 440 coupled to the hand portion
410. The transformable glove 40 further includes one or more
openings located on the thumb portion 420, the first finger portion
430, and/or the third finger portion 440. The openings permit a
wearer to selectively extend a thumb and/or one or more fingers
outside of the transformable glove 40. Additionally, and as
described in more detail below, the transformable glove 40 is
configured to group the fingers of the wearer into a first finger
group and a second finger group within the finger portions of the
transformable glove 40. The transformable glove 40 may be
constructed of materials typical used in gloves and mittens. In a
particular embodiment, the transformable glove 40 is knit.
[0072] The wrist portion 400 includes an wrist opening 401
configured to receive the hand of the wearer and be worn about the
wrist of the wearer. The wrist portion 400 may also include a
selectively adjustable cuff402. The selectively adjustable cuff402
may be rolled upward as shown in FIG. 16A or rolled down as shown
in FIG. 15A to adjust the length of the wrist portion 400. The hand
portion 410 extends from the wrist portion 400 opposite the wrist
opening 401. The hand portion 410 is configured to cover the hand
of the wearer between the wrist and the thumb and fingers of the
wearer. With reference to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the hand portion
includes a palmal surface 411 and a dorsal surface 412 configured
to respectively cover the palm and the dorsum of the hand of the
wearer.
[0073] With reference to FIG. 17B the hand portion 410 may further
include a thumb opening 413 located along a side of the hand
portion 410, a first finger opening 414 and a second finger opening
415 located along the top of the hand portion 410. Each of the
thumb opening 413, the first finger opening 414 and the second
finger opening 415 are located on the hand portion 410 and sized to
receive the respective digits of the wearer. A thumb portion 420 is
attached to hand portion 410 at the thumb opening 413. The thumb
portion 420 is configured to receive the thumb of the wearer. The
first finger portion 430 is attached to hand portion 410 at the
first finger opening 414. The third finger portion 440 is attached
to hand portion 410 at the second finger opening 415.
[0074] In the embodiment of the transformable glove 40 depicted in
FIGS. 15A-16B, the first finger portion 430 is configured to
receive the first finger and the second finger (forefinger and
middle finger) of the wearer. The second finger portion 440 is
configured to receive the third finger and fourth finger (ring
finger and little finger) of the wearer. As depicted, the first
finger portion 430 and the second finger portion 440 each include a
finger opening 450. The finger opening 450 may be disposed on the
palmal side as shown or the dorsal side of the transformable glove
40. The finger opening 450 may be located anywhere along the length
of the respective finger portion from base where the finger portion
attaches to the hand portion 410 to a location proximate the tip of
the finger portion. As shown, the finger opening 450 is located
toward the tip of the respective finger portion proximate at least
one of the distal interphalangeal joints of the finger of the
wearer within the respective finger portion. Thus, the distal
portion of one or more fingers in the respective finger portion may
be selectively extended from the transformable glove 40 through the
finger opening 450. The thumb portion 420 may also include a thumb
opening (not shown) to permit at least a portion of the thumb of
the wearer to be selectively extended outside the transformable
glove 40.
[0075] In the embodiment of the transformable glove 40 depicted in
FIGS. 16A and 16B, the first finger portion 430 is configured to
receive the first finger (forefinger) of the wearer. The second
finger portion 440 is configured to receive the second finger, the
third finger and the fourth finger (middle finger, ring finger and
little finger) of the wearer. As depicted, the first finger portion
430 and the second finger portion 440 each include a finger opening
450 and the thumb portion 420 includes a thumb opening 451. As
previously described, the finger opening 450 and thumb opening 451
may be disposed on the palmal side as shown or the dorsal side of
the transformable glove 40. The finger opening 450 and thumb
opening 451 may be located anywhere along the length of the
respective finger portion and the thumb portion 420, from the base
where the respective finger/thumb portion attaches to the hand
portion 410 to a location proximate the tip of the finger portion.
As shown, the finger opening 450 of the first finger portion is
proximate the distal interphalangeal joint of the first finger and
the finger opening 450 of the second finger portion 440 is
proximate the interphalangeal joint of the fourth finger of the
wearer. Thus, the distal portion of one or more fingers in the
respective finger portion may be selectively extended from the
transformable glove 40 through the finger opening 450. Similarly,
the tip of the thumb may also be extended outside the thumb portion
420 through the thumb opening 451.
[0076] FIGS. 18A-18C show a transformable mask hat 50 according to
another embodiment of the present invention. The transformable mask
hat 50 generally comprises a head receiving portion 500 and a mask
portion 510 attached to a first location of the head receiving
portion 500. The mask portion 510 is selectively attachable to a
second location of the head receiving portion 500 substantially
opposite the first location. The head receiving portion 500 is
configured to receive at least a portion of the head of the wearer.
The mask portion 510 is selectively orientatable by the wearer to a
plurality of configurations. As shown in FIG. 18A, the mask portion
510 may be draped from the head receiving portion 500 and may cover
a portion of the ear of the wearer. In FIG. 18B, the mask portion
510 traverses the face of the wearer and selectively attaches to
head receiving portion 500 substantially opposite the origin of the
mask portion 510. In yet another configuration, the mask portion
510 be positioned over a portion of the head receiving portion
500.
[0077] The head receiving portion 500 may comprise a generally
domed hat structure sized to receive a portion of the head of the
wearer. As best seen in FIG. 18B, the head receiving portion 500
may be asymmetrical and include a lateral portion 501 that extends
downward from the head receiving portion 500. The lateral portion
501 is configured to cover one of the ears of the wearer and may
cover a portion of the side of the face and/or head of the wearer.
The head receiving portion 500 may further include a first mask
engagement feature 502. The first mask engagement feature 502 can
comprise any of variety of engagement elements, including a button,
snap, latch, one portion of hook and loop fastener, or other
feature. As depicted, the first mask engagement feature 502
comprises a ball. As best seen in FIG. 18C the head receiving
portion 500 may also include a handle portion 503. The handle
portion 503 includes a first end and a second end, each of which is
attached to the head receiving portion 500 to form a carrying
handle. The head receiving portion 500 may also include an opening
(not shown). The opening may be disposed near the apex of the head
receiving portion 500 and may be configured to permit a portion of
the hair of the wearer to extend therethrough. In a particular
embodiment, the handle portion 503 overlays the opening.
[0078] As shown, for example, in FIG. 18A, the mask portion 510
extends from a bottom periphery of the head receiving portion 500
from a location substantially opposite the first mask engagement
feature 502 and terminates at a mask end 511. The mask portion 510
includes a second mask engagement feature 512. The second mask
engagement feature 512 is located proximate the mask end 511 and is
configured to selectively mate with the first mask engagement
feature 502. In the depicted embodiment, the second mask engagement
feature 512 comprises an opening configured to receive the ball
defining the first mask engagement feature 502. It will be
appreciated that the elements used as the first mask engagement
feature 502 and the second mask engagement feature 512 may be
reversed. That is, in the depicted embodiment, for example, the
second mask engagement feature 512 may comprise a ball and the
first mask engagement feature 502 may comprise an opening. The mask
portion 510 may comprise a substantially triangular shape with the
base of the triangle located where the mask portion 510 is attached
to the head receiving portion 500 and the tip of the triangle
proximate the mask end 511.
[0079] The mask portion 510 may be configured to cover the mouth
and/or the nose of the wearer when attached to the first mask
engagement feature as shown in FIG. 18B. The mask portion 510 may
also be raised to extend over a portion of the head receiving
portion 500 and coupled to the first mask engagement feature 502.
In this configuration, the mask portion 510 may be passed beneath
the handle portion 503. The transformable mask hat 50 may be
constructed from materials typically used in the construction of
hats and mufflers and in an embodiment is knit from yarn.
[0080] FIGS. 19A-21 show a transformable hat and ear muffler 60
according to another embodiment of the present invention. The
transformable hat and ear muffler 60 generally comprises a head
receiving portion 600 and an ear muffler portion 610 selectively
attachable with an ear of the wearer. The ear muffler portion 610
is attached to the head receiving portion 600 near one of the ears
of the wearer and extends to terminate in an ear attachment portion
620. In a first configuration depicted in FIG. 19A, the ear muffler
portion 610 may be left to hang from the head receiving portion
600. In a second configuration depicted in FIG. 19B, the ear
muffler portion 610 may pulled under the chin of the wearer and
secured by engaging the ear attachment portion 620 with the other
ear of the wearer.
[0081] With reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, the head receiving
portion 600 may comprise a generally domed hat structure sized to
receive a portion of the head of the wearer. The head receiving
portion 600 defines a periphery 601. The head receiving portion 600
may be asymmetrical and include a lateral portion 602 that extends
downward from the head receiving portion 600. The lateral portion
602 is configured to cover one of the ears of the wearer and may
cover a portion of the side of the face and/or head of the wearer.
The ear muffler portion 610 is attached to the lower edge of the
lateral portion 602. As depicted, the ear muffler portion 610
comprises a rectangular strap. The ear attachment portion 620 is
attached to the distal end of the ear muffler portion 610. The ear
muffler portion 610 is of a length to allow the ear attachment
portion 620 to engage the ear of the wearer opposite the lateral
portion 602. The ear muffler portion 610 may comprise a material
and/or weave that permits a degree of elasticity so that the
transformable hat and ear muffler 60 may accommodate a plurality of
wearers in a range of sizes.
[0082] The ear attachment portion 620 defines an ear pocket 621
intended to provide protection to the ear of the wearer from cold
temperature and/or wind. The ear attachment portion is configured
to selectively receive the outer portions of the ear of the wearer.
The ear pocket 621 may be substantially shaped to the general form
of the outside surfaces of the human ear and can include a curved
periphery configured to extend around and behind a portion of the
ear. The ear attachment portion 620 further includes an ear
engagement member 622. The ear engagement member 622 comprises an
anteriorly disposed strap that laterally traverses over the ear
pocket 621. The ear engagement member 622 is configured to fit
behind the external surface of the ear between the head and the ear
of the wearer, thereby securing the ear attachment portion 620 in
place on the ear of the wearer. Additionally, the ear attachment
portion 620 provides thermal protection for the ear when engaged
with the ear of the wearer. The transformable hat and ear muffler
60 may be constructed from a variety of materials, including
materials typical of used in hats and ear mufflers. In a particular
embodiment, the transformable hat and ear muffler 60 is knit from
yarn.
[0083] FIGS. 22-24D show a transformable scarf 70 according to
another embodiment of the present invention. The transformable
scarf 70 comprises a first member 700 and a second member 710. The
first member 700 is a generally rectangular piece of material
having a first face 701 and a second face 702 opposite the first
face 701. The first member 700 includes a plurality of openings 703
through the first face 701 and the second face 702. The plurality
of openings 703 are disposed along a length and/or width of the
first member 700. In the depicted embodiment, the plurality of
openings 703 are disposed along a row across the length of the
first member 700. A collar portion 704 may be disposed along a
length of the first member. The collar portion 704 may comprises a
different material, texture, color, and/or different material
property from the first member 700. The collar portion 704 may
include an arcuate periphery. In an embodiment, the first member
700 is arcuate.
[0084] The second member 710 generally comprises an elongated piece
of a material configured to pass through at least one of the
plurality of openings 703. The second member 710 may be constructed
of the same or different material relative to the first member 700.
In a particular embodiment, the second member comprises a
lightweight scarf. The second member 710 may be coupled to the
first member 700 by selectively weaving the second member through
the plurality of openings 703 between the first face 701 and the
second face 702 as shown in FIGS. 22 and 23. As such, a portion of
the second member 710a is disposed over the first face 701 and
another portion of the second member 710b is disposed over the
second face 702. The second member 710 may have a length greater
than the first member 700 so that the ends 711 of the second member
may extend beyond the first member 700. The ends 711 may be pulled
and/or attached to each other or a portion of the first member to
configure the transformable scarf 70 as desired by the wearer.
[0085] FIGS. 25A-26C show a transformable article of clothing 80
according to another embodiment of the present invention. The
transformable article of clothing 80 is configured such that it may
be transformed into a plurality of configurations by the wearer,
including a hat and scarf combination, a shoulder shrug and gloves
combination, and an adjustable scarf. With reference to FIGS. 25A
and 25B, the article of clothing 80 generally comprises a central
portion 800 with an end portion 801 extending from opposite ends of
the central portion 800. Each of the end portions 801 are
substantially symmetrical and comprise tubular, sleeve-like
components 814 configured to receive an arm or portion thereof of
the wearer in certain configurations. When not occupied by the
wearer's arm, the end portion 801 may be substantially flattened
for wearing in other configurations.
[0086] The end portions 801 are open at each end opposite the
central portion 800 and adjacent the central portion 800, having a
distal opening 802 located at the end of the end portion 801 and a
medial opening 812 in communication with the central portion 800 at
a central portion end 810. The end portions 801 comprise a flexible
fabric and, in various embodiments, may be knit and configured to
stretch along their lengths to accommodate the various
configurations and arm lengths of the wearer. A thumb hole 804 may
further be located in each of the end portions 801 proximate the
distal openings 802. The thumb hole 802 is generally located on the
end portions 801 and sized to receive a thumb of the wearer and to
permit extension of the wearer's thumb therethrough in certain
configurations.
[0087] The central portion 800 may also comprise a generally
elongated tubular structure defining an interior and having a
longitudinal axis substantially aligned with the longitudinal axes
of the end portions 801. In various configurations, a portion of
the interior of the central portion 800 may be occupied by a
portion of the wearer, including a portion of the head or
arm/shoulder. The interior portion of the central portion 800
provides access to the end portions 801 through the respective
medial openings 812. When the interior is not occupied, the central
portion 800 may be substantially flattened such that the interior
volume is greatly reduced. The central portion 800 comprises a
flexible fabric and in various embodiments may be knit.
[0088] The central portion 800 is generally defined by at least one
continuous or partially continuous surface but includes a first
opening 805 and a second opening 806 through the surface providing
communication to the interior of the central portion 800. The first
opening 805 and the second opening 806 may comprise elongated
openings that are substantially aligned and collinear in relation
to their positions on the central portion 800. Alternatively, in
various embodiments, the first opening 805 and the second opening
806 may be located in the central portion 800 such that they are
opposing or offset. In various embodiments, the first opening 805
and the second opening 806 comprise slots or oblong lots slots
where the width of the opening is less than the length. In certain
embodiments, the first opening 805 is longer than the second
opening 806 and may be about 50 percent longer in a particular
embodiment. A bridge 807 may separate the first opening 805 and the
second opening 806.
[0089] Various configurations of the transformable article of
clothing 80 are depicted in FIGS. 26A-26C. In a first
configuration, providing for a combination hat and scarf depicted
in FIG. 26A, the central portion 800 is placed on the wearer's head
with the head extending through first opening 805 into the
interior. The end potions 801 may be wrapped about the neck of the
wearer in various orientations to provide a scarf. For example, the
end portion 801 opposite the first opening 805 may be placed in or
pulled through the distal opening 802 or the medial opening of the
end portion 801 adjacent the first opening 805. Alternatively, the
end portion 801 adjacent the first opening 805 may be placed in or
pulled through the distal opening 802 or the medial opening of the
end portion 801 opposite the first opening 805. In a second
configuration, providing for a combination shoulder shrug and
gloves depicted in FIG. 26B, the wearer's arms are placed in the
respective end portions 801, entering through the first opening 805
and the second opening 806, respectively. The central portion 800
may be placed about the shoulders, back or waist of the wearer in
this configuration. The wear's thumbs may be extended through the
thumb holes 804. In a third configuration, providing for an
adjustable scarf depicted in FIG. 26C, the transformable article of
clothing 80 is wrapped about the neck of the wearer. One of the end
portions 801 is pulled through the first opening 805 and the other
end portion 801 is pushed up the end portion 801 that is pulled
through the first opening 805. The end portions 801 may be moved
relative to each other and/or the central portion 800 to select the
length of the adjustable scarf.
[0090] The foregoing description of embodiments of the present
invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and
description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
present invention to the precise form disclosed, and modifications
and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may
be acquired from practice of the present invention. The embodiments
were chosen and described to explain the principles of the present
invention and its practical application to enable one skilled in
the art to utilize the present invention in various embodiments and
with various modifications as are suited to the particular use
contemplated.
* * * * *