US20180111668A1

US20180111668A1 - Closure system

Info

Publication number: US20180111668A1
Application number: US15/298,928
Authority: US
Inventors: Alyxandra Tortorice
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-10-20
Filing date: 2016-10-20
Publication date: 2018-04-26

Abstract

A closure system is provided. The closure system comprises an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members. An inner panel is provided comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members, and an insertion panel configured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel. The insertion panel comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface where each surface includes a plurality of connecting members. The inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel, and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to seal the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels. Methods of use are also disclosed.

Description

BACKGROUND

Numerous closure devices and methods are used to temporarily and/or permanently fix or enhance articles of apparel such as clothing, gear, underclothing, leather goods, bags, shoes, accessories, and other fabric materials. The best known and widely used closure devices are buttons (e.g., classical, automatic or magnetic), snaps, hook-and-eye fastener, clips, clasps, zippers, hook-and-loop (e.g., Velcro®, Velcro USA, Inc., Manchester, N.H., United States), buckles, laces, and magnetic bands.
However, all of the closure devices above that are permanently attached to an item of apparel must be mechanically manipulated at length to open and close, and may be unacceptable for a user. They can also be impractical, inefficient, uncomfortable and/or expensive. For example, they have a disadvantage of leaving a gap or an opening between parts of an item of apparel, and so they are not effective when a tight seal is desired to prevent water or snow from entering the apparel. Additionally, current closure devices oftentimes do not deliver a sleek, seamless appearance and/or can add unwanted bulk.
One area where a tight seal, sleek design and reduction of bulk is desired is in the area of convertible wetsuits. Convertible wetsuits allow the user to convert a full length wetsuit into a short-length wetsuit, and vice versa, in accordance with ambient water temperature conditions. Convertible wetsuits require some sort of joint/closure mechanism for detachably joining an extended sleeve or legging to a short sleeve or short legging. One common type of connecting structure used is a 360 degree zipper or a hook-and-loop closure (Velcro®) fastener surrounding the interface between the short sleeves and short leggings of the wetsuit and the detachably connectible extended sleeves and leggings.
Unfortunately, a joint/closure mechanism in the form of a zipper or a hook-and-loop closure (e.g., Velcro®) is not without its shortcomings. While a joint/closure mechanism can provide a secure coupling between the limb covering components of the wetsuit or other article of apparel, it does not provide an absolute seal, allowing for water to enter if the article does not fit the user properly. With regard to the zipper, when it is used in a wetsuit or another article of apparel, it often causes jamming of fabric that complicates the closure process. It also cannot be applied to light fabrics, permits no lateral adjustment, adds expense and other inconveniences. With regard to the hook-and-loop closure (e.g., Velcro®), this type of closure is used to avoid some inconveniences, but is not easily washable since it catches on other fabrics and becomes clogged with lint, wool, hair, dust etc. It also can damage skin and fabric if it is not aligned perfectly together. Further, due to their design, a zipper or hook-and-loop closure (e.g., Velcro®) will not provide a sleek and seamless design, and will also add bulk to the article of apparel.
Accordingly, in view of the foregoing limitations and problems discussed above, there is a need for a closure system which has an improved design to create a water tight seal, delivers a sleek and seamless appearance, while also reducing the amount of bulk that is implemented to an article when a closure system is applied to it.

SUMMARY

A closure system is provided for articles of apparel. The closure system comprises an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members. An inner panel is provided comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members, and an insertion panel configured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel. The insertion panel comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface where each surface includes a plurality of connecting members. The inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel, and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
In one embodiment, an article of apparel closure system is provided. The article of apparel closure system comprises a pocket comprising an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members. An inner panel is provided comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members, and an insertion panel configured for engagement with the pocket. The insertion panel comprises an exterior surface and an interior surface, where each surface has a plurality of connecting members. The inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
In one embodiment, a wetsuit is provided that includes a closure system. The wetsuit comprises a body having a distal end comprising a first pocket and a second pocket. Each of the pockets comprise an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members and an inner panel comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members. A first legging and a second legging are provided. Each of the leggings comprising an insertion panel disposed at a proximal end, and configured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel of the pocket. The insertion panel comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, each surface having a plurality of connecting members. The inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the following description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate the same elements. The present application is considered to include all functional combinations of the above described features and is not limited to the particular structural embodiments shown in the figures as examples. The scope and spirit of the present application are considered to include modifications as may be made by those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure which substitute, for elements presented in the claims, devices or structures upon which the claim language reads or which are equivalent thereto, and which produce substantially the same results associated with those corresponding examples identified in this disclosure for purposes of the operation of this application. Furthermore, operations in accordance with methods of the description and claims are not intended to be required in any particular order unless necessitated by prerequisites included in the operations. Additionally, the scope and spirit of the present application is intended to be defined by the scope of the claim language itself and equivalents thereto without incorporation of structural or functional limitations discussed in the specification which are not referred to in the claim language itself. Accordingly, the detailed description is intended as illustrative in nature and not limiting the scope and spirit of the present application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a closure system disposed on an article of apparel;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the closure system, as shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of components of the closure system, as shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of components of the closure system, as shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a front view of an embodiment of a closure system disposed on a wetsuit;

FIG. 6 is a front view of the closure system, as shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a front view of an embodiment of a closure system disposed on multiple sections of a wetsuit; and

FIG. 8 is a front view of an embodiment of a closure system disposed on a fashion hanger.

It is to be understood that the figures are not drawn or photographed to scale. Further, the relation between objects in a figure may not be to scale, and may in fact have a reverse relationship as to size. The figures are intended to bring understanding and clarity to the structure of each object shown, and thus, some features may be exaggerated in order to illustrate a specific feature of a structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Definitions

For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, percentages or proportions of materials, reaction conditions, and other numerical values used in the specification and claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment that is +/−10% of the recited value. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present disclosure. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Also, as used in the specification and including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value.
Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of this application are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all subranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of “1 to 10” includes any and all subranges between (and including) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10, that is, any and all subranges having a minimum value of equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value of equal to or less than 10, e.g., 5.5 to 10.
The term “rubber”, as described herein, refers to a tough elastic polymeric substance that is natural or synthetically. “Synthetic rubber” refers to any artificial elastomer, including, but not limited to polyacrylate rubber, ethylene-acrylate rubber, polyester urethane, bromo isobutylene isoprene, polybutadiene, chloro isobutylene isoprene, polychloroprene, chlorosulphonated polyethylene, epichlorohydrin, ethylene propylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer, polyether urethane, perfluorocarbon rubber, fluoronated hydrocarbon, fluoro silicone, fluorocarbon rubber, hydrogenated nitrile butadiene, polyisoprene, isobutylene isoprene butyl, acrylonitrile butadiene, polyurethane, styrene butadiene, styrene ethylene butylene styrene copolymer, polysiloxane, vinyl methyl silicone, acrylonitrile butadiene carboxy monomer, styrene butadiene carboxy monomer, thermoplastic polyether-ester, styrene butadiene block copolymer, and styrene butadiene carboxy block copolymer. “Natural rubber” refers to an elastic material obtained from the latex sap of trees, such as, for example of the genera Hevea and Ficus, including, but is not limited to liquid latex rubber.
The term “modulus of elasticity,” or “Young's modulus” as described herein, refers to the ratio of tensile stress to tensile strain. It describes tensile elasticity, or the tendency of an object to deform along an axis when opposing forces are applied along that axis. For example, the range of modulus of elasticity of the rubbers described above is about 1 to about 10 megapascals (MPa). In some embodiments, the modulus of elasticity is from about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 MPa for the rubbers described above.
The term “International Rubber Hardness Degrees” or “(IRHD)”, refers to a method used to determine the hardness of a rubber. The rubbers described herein have an IRHD of from about 30 to about 85. In some embodiments, the rubbers described herein, have an IRHD of from about 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84 or 85.
The term “screen printed” or “screen printing”, as described herein, refers to a method in which a liquid is applied directly to the surface to be printed (e.g., substrate). The image to be printed is photographically transferred to a very fine fabric (e.g., the screen) such that the non-printing areas are blocked off and the fabric serves as a stencil.
The term “water tight” “water seal” or “water tight seal”, as described herein, refers to not permitting the passage of water either in or out of an article of apparel.
The term “adhesive”, as described herein, refers to polymers such as polyamides, polyolefins, and polyurethanes (including polyurethaneureas), hot melt adhesive, a cyanoacrylate, an epoxy, polyvinyl acetate, a plastisol (including rubber), a thermoplastic (including polyurethanes, polyesters, and polyamides), silicone, latex polymer, a thermoset, a pressure sensitive adhesive and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive is administered in a glue, tape, or spray form. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be applied in strips, dots, and/or in layers. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes dispersions or films that may be added to or in conjunction with the closure system.
The term “fabric” refers to a knitted, woven or nonwoven material. Knitted fabric may be flat knit, circular knit, warp knit, narrow elastic, or lace. Woven fabric may be of any construction, for example sateen, twill, plain weave, oxford weave, basket weave, and narrow elastic. Nonwoven material may be meltblown, spun bonded, wet-laid, carded fiber-based staple webs, and the like. In some embodiments, the fabric is chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®, Denka Performance Elastomer LLC, LaPlace, La., United States), spandex (Lycra®, Invista Co., Wichita, Kans., United States), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®, DuPont USA Co., Wilmington, Del., United States), or canvas.
The term “magnet” or “magnets”, as described herein, refers to a material or object that produces a magnetic field. In some embodiments, the magnet is a strip or a button. In some embodiments, the closure system comprises a plurality of magnets in addition to or as an alternative to other components of the closure system, as described herein.

Closure System

A closure system 20, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, is provided that can be attached to any article of apparel, including, but not limited to, clothing, gear, underclothing, leather goods, bags, shoes, accessories, and/or other fabric materials. The closure system can also be attached to clothing organizers and/or hangers. The closure system comprises an outer panel 22. In some embodiments, the outer panel is configured for engagement with an inner panel and an insertion panel to secure the insertion panel with the outer panel and the inner panel, as described herein. In some embodiments, the outer panel comprises a fabric material. In some embodiments, the outer panel comprises a stiff material comprising chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the outer panel has a certain thickness. In some embodiments, the outer panel has a thickness range from about 0.1 millimeter (mm) to about 50 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 40 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 30 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 25 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 20 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 15 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 5 mm, from about 2 mm to about 20 mm, from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, from about 2 mm to about 10 mm, from about 2 mm, to about 5 mm, from about 3 mm to about 20 mm, from about 3 mm to about 15 mm, from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, from about 3 mm to about 5 mm, from about 4 mm to about 20 mm, from about 4 mm to about 15 mm, from about 4 mm to about 10 mm, from about 4 mm to about 5 mm, from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, from about 5 mm to about 15 mm, from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the outer panel is about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50 mm.
In some embodiments, the outer panel is a circumferential panel. In some embodiments, the outer panel is configured as an outer sleeve. The outer panel comprises an inner surface 24. The inner surface is textured with a plurality of connecting members 26. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are configured for engagement with additional plurality of connecting members that are disposed on surfaces of an insertion panel, as described herein. In one embodiment, the plurality of connecting members are screen printed onto the outer panel.
In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members comprise a rubber. In one embodiment, the rubber comprises one or a combination of synthetic rubbers, including, but not limited to polyacrylate rubber, ethylene-acrylate rubber, polyester urethane, bromo isobutylene isoprene, polybutadiene, chloro isobutylene isoprene, polychloroprene, chlorosulphonated polyethylene, epichlorohydrin, ethylene propylene, ethylene propylene diene monomer, polyether urethane, perfluorocarbon rubber, fluoronated hydrocarbon, fluoro silicone, fluorocarbon rubber, hydrogenated nitrile butadiene, polyisoprene, isobutylene isoprene butyl, acrylonitrile butadiene, polyurethane, styrene butadiene, styrene ethylene butylene styrene copolymer, polysiloxane, vinyl methyl silicone, acrylonitrile butadiene carboxy monomer, styrene butadiene carboxy monomer, thermoplastic polyether-ester, styrene butadiene block copolymer, and styrene butadiene carboxy block copolymer. In some embodiments, the rubber comprises a natural rubber comprising a liquid latex rubber.
In some embodiments, the rubber comprises a modulus of elasticity in the range of about 1 to about 10 MPa. In some embodiments, the rubber has a modulus of elasticity from about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 to about 10 MPa.
In some embodiments, the rubbers described herein have an IRHD of from about 30 to about 85. In some embodiments, the rubber has an IRHD of from about 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84 or 85.
In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are molded into shapes, including, but not limited to, circles (e.g., dots), squares, triangles, ovals, crescents, chevrons, rectangles, waves, horseshoes, rods, hexagons or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are arranged in a pattern such as, for example, in a row, or in a block pattern. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are arranged in single or multiple rows. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are arranged in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20 rows. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are disposed in about 1 to about 20, about 1 to about 15, about 1 to about 10, about 1 to about 5, about 5 to about 20, about 5 to about 15, about 5 to about 10, about 10 to about 20, about 10 to about 15, or about 15 to about 20 rows. In some embodiments, the rows are in alignment with other rows or are in a staggered alignment with other rows. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members may be arranged in a discrete, clumped, or random configuration.
In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members can include one or more connecting members. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members may be configured in a specific amount depending on the size and dimensions of the outer panel. In one embodiment, the plurality of connecting members have a particular thickness. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members have a thickness from about 0.01 mm to about 4 mm, from about 0.05 mm to about 4 mm, from about 0.1 mm to about 4 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 4 mm, from about 1 mm to about 4 mm, from about 2 mm to about 4 mm, or from about 3 mm to about 4 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members have a thickness from about 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9 and/or 4.0 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members have the same or different thicknesses.
In one embodiment, the closure system alternatively comprises a band (not shown) instead of the plurality of connecting members. In some embodiments, the band is elastic. In some embodiments, the band is rubber. In some embodiments, the closure system alternatively comprises a plurality of magnets 27 (as shown in FIG. 8) instead of the plurality of connecting members. In some embodiments, the closure system alternatively comprises a plurality of connecting members, a band or a plurality of bands, and/or a plurality of magnets. In some embodiments, the plurality of magnets have the same thicknesses and arrangement that the plurality of connecting members have, as described above.
The closure system comprises an inner panel 28. In some embodiments, the inner panel comprises a fabric material. In some embodiments, the inner panel comprises a stiff material comprising chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the inner panel comprises the same or different material than the outer panel.
In some embodiments, the inner panel has a certain thickness. In some embodiments, the inner panel has a thickness range from about 0.1 millimeter (mm) to about 50 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 40 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 30 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 25 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 20 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 15 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 5 mm, from about 2 mm to about 20 mm, from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, from about 2 mm to about 10 mm, from about 2 mm, to about 5 mm, from about 3 mm to about 20 mm, from about 3 mm to about 15 mm, from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, from about 3 mm to about 5 mm, from about 4 mm to about 20 mm, from about 4 mm to about 15 mm, from about 4 mm to about 10 mm, from about 4 mm to about 5 mm, from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, from about 5 mm to about 15 mm, from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the inner panel is about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50 mm. In some embodiments, the inner panel has the same or a different thickness than the outer panel.
In some embodiments, the inner panel is a circumferential panel similar to the outer panel. In some embodiments, the inner panel is configured as an inner sleeve. In some embodiments, the outer panel and the inner panel are configured for fixed engagement. In some embodiments, a proximal end of each of the outer panel and the inner panel fixedly engage to form a pocket. In some embodiments, the fixed engagement is via an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes, but is not limited to, polymers such as polyamides, polyolefins, and polyurethanes (including polyurethaneureas), hot melt adhesive, a cyanoacrylate, an epoxy, polyvinyl acetate, a plastisol (including rubber), a thermoplastic (including polyurethanes, polyesters, and polyamides), silicone, latex polymer, a thermoset, a pressure sensitive adhesive or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive is administered in a glue, tape, or spray form. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be applied in strips, dots, and/or in layers. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes dispersions or films. In some embodiments, a certain amount of adhesive is applied to the proximal end of each of the outer panel and the inner panel to form the pocket. In some embodiments, the fixed engagement is via stitching. In some embodiments, the stitching comprises lock stitch, zigzag stitch, stretch stitch, cover stitch, back tack, backstitch, basting stitch, chain stitch, cross-stitch, pad stitch, running stitch, or a combination thereof.
The inner panel comprises an outer surface 30. The outer surface is textured with a plurality of connecting members 32, identical to plurality of connecting members 26. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are configured for engagement with additional plurality of connecting members that are disposed on surfaces of an insertion panel, as described herein.
The closure system comprises an insertion panel 34 that is configured for engagement, such as, for example, is secured with the outer panel and the inner panel, as described herein. In some embodiments, the insertion panel is a circumferential panel. In some embodiments, the insertion panel is tubular. In some embodiments, the insertion panel comprises a fabric material. In some embodiments, the insertion panel comprises a stiff material comprising chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the insertion panel comprises the same or different material than the outer panel and/or inner panel.
In some embodiments, the insertion panel has a certain thickness. In some embodiments, the insertion panel has a thickness range from about 0.1 millimeter (mm) to about 50 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 40 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 30 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 25 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 20 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 15 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 5 mm, from about 2 mm to about 20 mm, from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, from about 2 mm to about 10 mm, from about 2 mm, to about 5 mm, from about 3 mm to about 20 mm, from about 3 mm to about 15 mm, from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, from about 3 mm to about 5 mm, from about 4 mm to about 20 mm, from about 4 mm to about 15 mm, from about 4 mm to about 10 mm, from about 4 mm to about 5 mm, from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, from about 5 mm to about 15 mm, from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the insertion panel is about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 or 50 mm. In some embodiments, the insertion panel has the same or a different thickness than the outer panel and/or the inner panel.
The insertion panel comprises an interior surface 36 and an exterior surface 38. Each of the interior and exterior surfaces having a plurality of connecting members 40 that are identical to the plurality of connecting members 26 and 32, as described herein. Plurality of connecting members 40 are configured for engagement with plurality of connecting members 26 and 32. For example, the inner surface of the outer panel along with the plurality of connecting members 26 engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members 40, and the outer surface of the inner panel along with the plurality of connecting members 32 engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members 40 so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels. In some embodiments, when the outer panel and the inner panel form a pocket, the insertion panel is inserted into the pocket, and the insertion panel is secured within the pocket. In one embodiment, the outer and inner panels friction interlock with the insertion panel.
In some embodiments, when the closure system comprises the plurality of connecting members described above, the insertion panel is friction locked with the outer and inner panels when the closure system is fixed with an article of apparel that is being worn by a user. The user's body, combined with the closure system, causes a tight fit that friction locks the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
In some embodiments, the closure system is fixedly attached to an article of apparel, including, but not limited to, clothing, gear, underclothing, leather goods, bags, shoes, accessories, and other fabric materials. In some embodiments, the closure system is removably or fixedly attached to clothing organizers and/or hangers to secure an article of apparel or other object to the clothing organizer and/or hanger. In some embodiments, parts or all of the closure system is temporarily or permanently attached to an article of apparel, clothing organizers and/or hangers.
In some embodiments, the closure system fixedly attaches to the article of apparel via an adhesive or stitching. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes, but is not limited to, polymers such as polyamides, polyolefins, and polyurethanes (including polyurethaneureas), hot melt adhesive, a cyanoacrylate, an epoxy, polyvinyl acetate, a plastisol (including rubber), a thermoplastic (including polyurethanes, polyesters, and polyamides), silicone, latex polymer, a thermoset, a pressure sensitive adhesive or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive is administered in a glue, tape, or spray form. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be applied in strips, dots, and/or in layers. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes dispersions or films. In some embodiments, the fixed engagement is via stitching. In some embodiments, the stitching comprises lock stitch, zigzag stitch, stretch stitch, cover stitch, back tack, backstitch, basting stitch, chain stitch, cross-stitch, pad stitch, running stitch, or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5-7, a closure system 120, similar to closure system 20 described above, is disposed with an article of apparel, such as, for example, a wetsuit 42. The wetsuit comprises a body 44. The body is disposed on a longitudinal axis A, shown in FIG. 6. The body includes a distal end 46 including a first opening comprising a first pocket 48 disposed about a perimeter of the first opening, and a second opening comprising a second pocket 50 disposed about a perimeter of the second opening. The first and second openings are disposed parallel to one another, and the pockets are disposed transverse relative to the longitudinal axis of the body. Each pocket is fixed to the perimeter of the opening via stitching. In some embodiments, the stitching includes, but is not limited to, a lock stitch, zigzag stitch, stretch stitch, cover stitch, back tack, backstitch, basting stitch, chain stitch, cross-stitch, pad stitch, running stitch, or a combination thereof.
The first and second pockets are configured similar to the pocket described above with regard to closure system 20. For example, each of the pockets comprises an outer panel 122 comprising an inner surface 124. The inner surface has a plurality of connecting members 126. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are screen printed onto the inner surface. Each of the pockets comprises an inner panel 128 comprising an outer surface 130. The outer surface has a plurality of connecting members 132. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are screen printed onto the outer surface. The outer panel 122, inner surface 124, plurality of connecting members 126, inner panel 128, outer surface 130 and plurality of connecting members 132 are identical to outer panel 22, inner surface 24, plurality of connecting members 26, inner panel 28, and outer surface 30, respectively, as described above with regard to closure system 20.
The outer and inner panels are circumferential panels that are configured as outer and inner sleeves. The outer panel and the inner panel are configured for fixed engagement. In some embodiments, a proximal end of each of the outer panel and the inner panel fixedly engage to form the pocket.
In some embodiments, the outer panel and inner panel that form the pocket comprise a stiff material comprising chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the outer panel is made from the same or a different material that the inner panel.
The wetsuit comprises a first legging 52, and a second legging 54. The first legging is disposed on a longitudinal axis B and the second legging is disposed on a longitudinal axis C, as shown in FIG. 6. The leggings are tubular. Each of the leggings comprises an insertion panel 134, identical to insertion panel 34, as described above with regard to closure system 20. The insertion panel is disposed at a proximal end of the legging and runs transverse relative to the longitudinal axis of the legging. The insertion panel is circumferentially disposed along the entire perimeter of the proximal end of the legging and corresponds to the diameter of the legging. The insertion panel is configured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel of the pocket.
The insertion panel comprises an interior surface 136 and an exterior surface 138 that are identical to interior surface 36 and exterior surface 38 of closure system 20. Each surface has a plurality of connecting members 140 that are identical to plurality of connecting members 40 of closure system 20.
In some embodiments, the insertion panel comprises chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the insertion panel is made from the same or different material as the outer and/or inner panels.
The inner surface of the outer panel along with the plurality of connecting members engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members, and the outer surface of the inner panel along with the plurality of connecting members engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members, so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
In some embodiments, when the outer panel and the inner panel form a pocket, the insertion panel is inserted into the pocket, and the insertion panel is secured within the pocket. In one embodiment, the outer and inner panels friction interlock with the insertion panel.
In some embodiments, the insertion panel is friction locked with the outer and inner panels when the wetsuit is being worn by a user. For example, the user's limbs expanding the elastic material of the wetsuit, combined with the closure system, causes a tight fit that friction locks the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels. This friction lock provides a water tight seal, creates a sleek and seamless appearance, and reduces the amount of bulk on the wetsuit.
In some embodiments, the closure system is disposed with a wetsuit to convert the wetsuit into different types of wetsuits. For example, the closure system is disposed with a wetsuit to make the arm sleeves, leggings, upper body, and/or lower body removable from the wetsuit, as shown in FIG. 7. In some embodiments, the closure system is disposed with a wetsuit to removably attach gloves and/or booties to the wetsuit.
In some embodiments, a closure system, similar to closure system 20 and 120 above, is disposed on a wetsuit where the outer and inner panels are fixed with a distal end of a wetsuit arm sleeve such that a distal end of a glove 45 comprising an insertion panel can be secured to the distal end of the arm sleeve, as shown in FIG. 6. Since a standard wetsuit comprises two arm sleeves, each distal end of an arm sleeve is configured with an outer and inner panel. The properties of the outer and inner panels are identical to the outer and inner panels of closure system 20 and 120.
In some embodiments, the outer and inner panels form a pocket and are circumferentially configured about the distal end of the sleeve. The outer panel comprises an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members. In some embodiments, the outer panel has a particular thickness, such as, for example, 4 mm. The inner panel comprises an outer surface defining an opening, such as for example, a thumb hole configured for disposal of a user's thumb. The outer surface comprises a plurality of connecting members. The plurality of connecting members are identical to the plurality of connecting members described in closure system 20 and 120. In some embodiments, the inner panel has a particular thickness, such as, for example, 1 mm. In some embodiments, the inner panel and the outer panel are made from a fabric material comprising chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the outer panel is made from the same or different material as the inner panel.
The closure system comprises an insertion panel disposed on a distal end of the glove. The properties of the insertion panel are identical to the insertion panel of closure system 20 and 120. The insertion panel is circumferentially configured about the perimeter of the distal end of the glove and corresponds to the diameter of the glove. The insertion panel comprises an exterior surface and an interior surface each comprising a plurality of connecting members. The plurality of connecting members are identical to plurality of connecting members 40.
The insertion panel is configured to be secured with the outer and inner panels. For example, the inner surface of the outer panel along with the plurality of connecting members engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members, and the outer surface of the inner panel along with the plurality of connecting members engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members, so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels. In some embodiments, when the outer panel and the inner panel form a pocket, the insertion panel is inserted into the pocket, and the insertion panel is secured within the pocket. In one embodiment, the outer and inner panels friction interlock with the insertion panel in a similar manner as is described above with regard to closure system 120. In some embodiments, the closure system for securing a glove to an arm sleeve of a wetsuit can also be configured for securing a wetsuit boot to a wetsuit, and for securing snowboarding and/or ski gear to a snow suit or to other articles of apparel.
In some embodiments, a closure system 220, as shown in FIG. 8, similar to closure system 20 and 120 above, is provided that is attached to a hanger 222. In some embodiments, the closure system is configured for engagement with at least a portion of an article of apparel such that the article of apparel is secured to the hanger. In some embodiments, the engagement between the closure system and at least a portion of the article of apparel is friction fit engagement or snap fit engagement.
The hanger includes a first flap 224 and a second flap 226. In some embodiments, the flaps are similar to the outer and inners panels disclosed above with regard to closure system 20. The first flap and the second flap each include an inner surface that includes a plurality of connecting members 228. The plurality of connecting members are wire inserts. In some embodiments, the plurality of connecting members are similar to the plurality of connecting members 26 and 32 described above with regard to closure system 20.
In some embodiments, in conjunction with the hanger, a hanger covering 221 is provided. In some embodiments, the hanger covering is made of a cloth material. In some embodiments, the hanger covering is configured to be disposed about the entire hanger such that the hanger and an item of clothing are protected from dust, wrinkles, and/or damage.
In some embodiments, the closure system comprises a plurality of magnets instead of the plurality of connecting members. In some embodiments, the closure system comprises a plurality of magnets and a plurality of connecting members. In some embodiments, the plurality of magnets have the same thicknesses and arrangement that the plurality of connecting members have with regard to closure system 20 and 120, described above. In some embodiments, the closure system further comprises a band or bands configured for snap engagement with the article of apparel. In some embodiments, the band or bands are elastic. In some embodiments, the band or bands are not elastic.

Method of Operating the Closure System

A method of operating closure system 20 in conjunction with an article of apparel is provided, the method comprising: introducing the article of apparel having at least a first portion and a second portion; attaching an outer panel to the first portion, the outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members; attaching an inner panel to the first portion comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members; and attaching an insertion panel to the second portion, the insertion panel configured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel, the insertion panel comprising an interior surface and an exterior surface, each surface having a plurality of connecting members; and inserting the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels, wherein the inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel, and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
In some embodiments, the outer panel and the inner panel are circumferential panels. In some embodiments, the outer panel and the inner panel form a pocket, and the insertion panel is inserted into the pocket.
In some embodiments, the outer and inner panels friction interlock with the insertion panel. For example, the inner surface of the outer panel along with the plurality of connecting members 26 engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members 40, and the outer surface of the inner panel along with the plurality of connecting members 32 engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel along with the plurality of connecting members 40, so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels. In some embodiments, when the outer panel and the inner panel form a pocket, the insertion panel is inserted into the pocket, and the insertion panel is secured within the pocket. In one embodiment, the outer and inner panels friction interlock with the insertion panel.
In some embodiments, such as, when the closure system comprises the plurality of connecting members described above, the insertion panel is friction locked with the outer and inner panels when the closure system is fixed with an article of apparel that is being worn by a user. For example, the user's limbs expanding the elastic material of the article of apparel (e.g., wetsuit), combined with the closure system, causes a tight fit that friction locks the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.
In some embodiments, the closure system is attached to an article of apparel including, but not limited to, clothing, gear, underclothing, leather goods, bags, shoes, accessories, and other fabric materials. In some embodiments, the closure system is attached to clothing organizers and/or hangers.
In some embodiments, the closure system is attached to the article of apparel either permanently or temporarily. In some embodiments, the closure system is fixedly attached to the article of apparel via an adhesive or stitching. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes, but is not limited to, polymers such as polyamides, polyolefins, and polyurethanes (including polyurethaneureas), hot melt adhesive, a cyanoacrylate, an epoxy, polyvinyl acetate, a plastisol (including rubber), a thermoplastic (including polyurethanes, polyesters, and polyamides), silicone, latex polymer, a thermoset, a pressure sensitive adhesive or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the adhesive is administered in a glue, tape, or spray form. In some embodiments, the adhesive can be applied in strips, dots, and/or in layers. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes dispersions or films. In some embodiments, the stitching comprises lock stitch, zigzag stitch, stretch stitch, cover stitch, back tack, backstitch, basting stitch, chain stitch, cross-stitch, pad stitch, running stitch, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the closure system is attached to the article of apparel via an adhesive and/or stitching.
Having described various embodiments of the application with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the application is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various changes and modifications may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the application as defined in the appended claims. Such modifications include substitution of components for components specifically identified herein, wherein the substitute components provide functional results which permit the overall functional operation of the present application to be maintained. Such substitutions are intended to encompass presently known components and components yet to be developed which are accepted as replacements for components identified herein and which produce result compatible with operation of the present application.

Claims

1. A closure system comprising: an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members; an inner panel comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members; and an insertion panel configured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel, the insertion panel comprising an interior surface and an exterior surface, each surface having a plurality of connecting members, wherein the inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel, and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.

2. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the outer and inner panels friction interlock with the insertion panel.

3. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the outer panel and the inner panel are circumferential panels.

4. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the outer panel and the inner panel form a pocket, and the insertion panel is inserted into the pocket.

5. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the closure system is fixedly attached to an article of apparel.

6. A closure system according to claim 5, wherein the closure system is fixedly attached to the article of apparel via an adhesive or stitching.

7. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of connecting members comprise a rubber.

8. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein (i) the connecting members are molded into shapes comprising circles, squares, triangles, ovals, crescents, rectangles, waves, horseshoes, rods, or a combination thereof and (iii) the plurality of connecting members are arranged in a pattern.

9. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of connecting members are screen printed onto the outer panel, the inner panel and the insertion panel.

10. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the closure system alternatively comprises a band instead of the plurality of connecting members.

11. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the closure system alternatively comprises a plurality of magnets instead of the plurality of connecting members.

12. A closure system according to claim 1, wherein the outer panel, the inner panel and the insertion panel each comprise chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof.

13. An apparel closure system comprising: a pocket comprising an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members and an inner panel comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members; and an insertion panel configured for engagement with the pocket, the insertion panel comprising an exterior surface and an interior surface, each surface having a plurality of connecting members, wherein the inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.

14. An apparel closure system according to claim 13, wherein (i) the apparel closure system is fixedly attached to an article of apparel; and (ii) the apparel closure system is fixedly attached to the article of apparel via an adhesive or stitching.

15. An apparel closure system according to claim 13, wherein the (i) plurality of connecting members comprise a rubber, (ii) the plurality of connecting members are molded into shapes comprising circles, squares, triangles, ovals, crescents, rectangles, waves, horseshoes, rods, or a combination thereof; and (iii) the plurality of connecting members are arranged in a pattern.

16. An apparel closure system according to claim 13, wherein the pocket and the insertion panel each comprise chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof.

17. A wetsuit comprising:

a body having a distal end comprising a first pocket and a second pocket, each of the pockets comprising an outer panel comprising an inner surface having a plurality of connecting members and an inner panel comprising an outer surface having a plurality of connecting members;

a first legging; and

a second legging, each of the leggings comprising an insertion panel disposed at a proximal end, and configured for engagement with the outer panel and the inner panel of the pocket, the insertion panel comprising an interior surface and an exterior surface, each surface having a plurality of connecting members,

wherein the inner surface of the outer panel engages with the exterior surface of the insertion panel and the outer surface of the inner panel engages with the interior surface of the insertion panel so as to secure the insertion panel with the outer and inner panels.

18. A wetsuit according to claim 17, wherein the (i) plurality of connecting members comprise a rubber, (ii) the plurality of connecting members are molded into shapes comprising circles, squares, triangles, ovals, crescents, rectangles, waves, horseshoes, rods, or a combination thereof; and (iii) the plurality of connecting members are arranged in a pattern.

19. A wetsuit according to claim 17, wherein the wetsuit is configured to friction interlock when a user wears the wetsuit.

20. A wetsuit according to claim 17, wherein the body, the first pocket, the second pocket and the insertion panel each comprise chloroprene rubber (Neoprene®), spandex (Lycra®), flashspun high-density polyethylene fibers (Tyvek®), canvas or a combination thereof.