Abstract:
Disclosed is a covering apparatus and kit for updating the style and fashion on buttons, fixtures and the like on various goods. The covering includes an elastomeric member that can be circular or any other shape and material such as fabric or other ornamental material. One advantage of the covering is the ability to easily insert and remove over any sized fixture and the ability to N not only change fabric and ornamental style but shape to keep up to date with the latest fashion or styles. The shape of the covering can be adjusted in several ways including, but not limited to, utilizing an elastomeric member of a different shape, utilizing a frame member, utilizing the fabric itself or any of combinations thereof. The covering apparatus may also be utilized in a kit to allow a user to create various styles and combinations of the covering to meet individual requirements.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The disclosed embodiments relate generally to an apparatus and kit for interchanging button designs and fabric on apparel and other goods. More particularly, the disclosed embodiments relate to an apparatus and kit users can utilize to quickly and easily change the look of garments, home textiles, cabinetry and the like. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The fashion and style industry produce many different products each year. Even in industries beyond the fashion industry, manufacturers consistently change the style of their products in an attempt to further improve their product offerings. 
         [0003]    Many times the underlying product of an outdated style is still functional and only the appearance is undesired. In the apparel industry, often times a simple change, for example, in the buttons, may make an out of date fashion in style again with today&#39;s latest look and feel. Prior art devices have attempted to make an interchangeable button or fixture with unsuccessful results. 
         [0004]    For example, U.S. Pat. No. 2,751,654 discloses an ornamental cover for a sewed button plate. An arched top plate extends over a bottom button plate. The bottom button plate has a recess for a sewed button to be received within the recess. A lock lever hinged to the top plate secures the assembly over a button. However this prior art device is limited to the size of the locking device and what buttons may be covered by the button cover. 
         [0005]    Further, U.S. Pat. No. 2,880,487 describes an interchangeable ornament for buttons having a substantially flat portion, and a V-shaped element that engages a button to fasten the ornament. This prior art device is limited in shape and sizes of the ornamental device. It also lacks the ability to securely fasten to a button or other object of various sizes. 
         [0006]    Another example of a prior art device is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 2,983,009 that discloses a button having a shell like configuration with a top section having a pair of bendable fingers, and a bottom section. The fingers are bent to extend into a button when the top and bottom sections are assembled. The top section may be covered by material. The prior art device lacks the ability to easily disengage and re-engage a substitute cover. Once the shell like configuration is engaged it is difficult to remove. 
         [0007]    Still another example is U.S. Pat. No. 3,242,544. Again, a button shell type configuration is disclosed. Also disclosed is a button back for forming a fabric-faced button. The button shell has a button back with a central opening and a flange. The shell and back is specifically dimensioned for the back to be telescoped and pressure-fitted into and to rest within the shell. The shell and back interlock in engagement with fabric material for the facing covering for the button. Again, the prior art device is specifically dimensioned for the button it covers and interchangeability of fabric is difficult. 
         [0008]    Thus, there still remains a need in the field to provide an apparatus and kit for updating the styles of an apparel or other goods by using a covering that is interchangeable and inserts/removes relatively easily to update styles as needed. There also still remains a need in the art for an interchangeable cover that allows various shapes and sizes of ornamental or decorative coverings to be inserted/removed relatively easily to keep up with the changing styles. 
       SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    The disclosed apparatus and kit provides for a novel way of providing a revitalize look and feel on apparel and other related or unrelated goods, such as cabinetry, and the like. Disclosed is an apparatus and kit that allows a user to reshape and design buttons, knobs, fixtures, and any other hardware that can utilize the invention. 
         [0010]    One object of the invention is to provide an easy to use removable, and secure device to allow users to cover buttons and the like with a new ornamental cover. The device includes an elastomeric member to allow secure and removable fitting over any sized button or object. The device also includes material that is not limited to a specific composition, and can be selected from a wide variety of materials or combination of materials. The device also permits use of frames or other materials to change the shape of the cover so that the cover is not limited to a circular shape such as a button or knob fixture depending on the embodiment. 
         [0011]    In another embodiment, a kit is provided to allow a user to create their own design and ornamentation. Among other things, the kit includes an elastomeric member, a fabric or other material and may or may not include other indicia for ornamentation that can be bonded on the fabric. The kit also includes an instructions for use manual to assist the user in utilizing the kit to make the covering. Examples of materials for the covering includes, but is not limited to, fabric, wool, cotton, polyblends, wovens, non-wovens, non-synthetics, synthetics, plastics, composites, metal alloys, metals, wood, paperboard, and any combination thereof. 
         [0012]    Another embodiment includes utilizing a frame material to alter the shape of the covering. The covering is not limited to a circular shape and various methods and materials may be utilized to obtain the shape desired for the covering. In one embodiment a frame material in the desired shape is used and placed on the fabric so that the fabric can be disposed about the frame. The fabric is bonded to an elastomeric member or other such resilient member that will allow the covering to be securely placed over the button or other such fixture. 
         [0013]    In addition, the fabric may be bonded directly to the elastomeric member with the use of a frame or other such device. The fabric may be folded or bonded to an elastomeric member that has a pre-set configuration that would form the desired shape of the covering. For example, a triangular shaped elastomeric member may be utilized to attach to the button or fixture. The triangular elastomeric member may be also used to pre-set the shape of the covering in a triangular configuration. 
         [0014]    An additional object of the present invention is minimizing the discomfort or time associated with using the covering device or kit by utilizing an easy to use and removable device that allows quick interchangeability without potential damage to the button or fixture. Many prior art devices due to their locking mechanisms were harmful to the underlying button or apparel and potentially would caused damage to the apparel. The current invention reduces the risk of harming the underlying apparel or fixtures by utilizing an elastomeric member in combination with fabric and other materials to minimize the risk of damage during removal. 
         [0015]    The foregoing objects are achieved and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent in light of the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0016]    In the drawings, wherein similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views: 
           [0017]      FIG. 1  shows a front perspective view of one embodiment of the apparatus. 
           [0018]      FIG. 2A  shows a top view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0019]      FIG. 2B  shows a side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0020]      FIG. 2C  shows bottom perspective view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1  being used to cover a button. 
           [0021]      FIG. 3A  shows a top view of another embodiment of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1  disassembled. 
           [0022]      FIG. 3B  shows a top view of the apparatus in  FIG. 3A  with one embodiment of assembly. 
           [0023]      FIG. 4A  shows a top view of one embodiment of the apparatus shown with a polygonal shape. 
           [0024]      FIG. 4B  shows a side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 4A . 
           [0025]      FIG. 4C  shows a top perspective exploded view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 4A . 
           [0026]      FIG. 5A  shows a top perspective exploded view of another embodiment of the apparatus in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0027]      FIG. 5B  shows a top assembled view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 5A . 
           [0028]      FIG. 5C  shows a cross-sectional side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 5B . 
           [0029]      FIG. 6  shows a top view of a base layer on the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0030]      FIG. 7  shows a top view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 6  with a fabric being applied. 
           [0031]      FIG. 8  shows a top view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 7  with addition hardware being applied to the fabric. 
           [0032]      FIG. 9  shows an apparatus of the present invention being applied to apparel. 
           [0033]      FIG. 10  shows an apparatus of the present invention being applied to foot wear. 
           [0034]      FIG. 11  shows an apparatus of the present invention being applied to cabinetry. 
           [0035]      FIG. 12  shows an apparatus of the present invention being applied to a homes good, for example such as a pillow. 
           [0036]      FIG. 13  shows an apparatus of the present invention being applied to a furniture, for example such as a chair. 
           [0037]      FIG. 14  shows an apparatus of the present invention being applied to bedding, for example such as a mattress. 
           [0038]      FIG. 15  one embodiment of the apparatus in  FIG. 1  as a kit. 
           [0039]      FIG. 16  shows an apparatus of the present invention utilizing two fabric disks. 
           [0040]      FIG. 17  shows the disks in  FIG. 16  being assembled. 
           [0041]      FIG. 18  shows the disks in  FIG. 17  being pulled inside out. 
           [0042]      FIG. 19  shows the disks in  FIG. 17  in its final form after being pulled inside out. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0043]    The invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention relates to an apparatus and kit for altering the style of buttons, fixtures, and other hardware that can be covered by the covering apparatus. The present invention increases the flexibility in utilizing current goods and apparel by updating its style to today&#39;s fashion, look and feel. Typically, for example, if a sweater was out of date, a consumer may, depending on the circumstances, choose to purchase an updated version of the sweater even if the basic components of the sweater are still functional and not worn. The present invention allows a more robust use of consumer goods by allowing consumers to update their goods and even customize them by utilizing the disclosed covering apparatus and kit. By providing consumers with better flexibility in using their current goods and still keeping up to date in fashion or style, the present invention provides a cost effective way of revitalizing outdated or out of style apparel and goods. 
         [0044]    Adverting to the drawings,  FIG. 1  illustrates one embodiment of the invention. Shown is a covering apparatus  10 . The apparatus  10  includes a sheath  12  and an elastomeric member  14 . The sheath and the elastomeric member may or may not be integral depending on the embodiment. Furthermore, the elastomeric member may or may not be made of the same material as the sheath  12 . Preferably, the sheath is a fabric like material, but is not so limited, and can vary depending on the style required by the user. The elastomeric member  14  is preferably a thermoplastic elastomer, but again is not so limited. The elastomeric member contains physical properties that would allow it to expand and constrict for many cycles, and preferably be durable through multiple washes. 
         [0045]      FIG. 2A  illustrates a top view of the covering apparatus  10 . The elastomeric member  14  is hidden and so denoted. The sheath  12  is shown in a circular shape but is not so limited. The covering may be any shape desired by the user and can be formed by various methods as illustrated, but not so limited, by the example in the foregoing description.  FIG. 2B  illustrates a side view of  FIG. 2A  and shows that the area inside the sheath  12  is capable of holding any sized button or fixture. The elastomeric member  14  is used to securely mount the covering  10  on the button or fixture and as the need requires to remove the covering  10  to update it with another covering.  FIG. 2C  illustrates one embodiment of the invention being assembled over a button. The elastomeric member  14  stretches over the button and then constricts over the back of the button as to hold the device in place. The sheath completely covers the button, fixture or whatever component is being re-vitalized. Since as shown in  FIG. 2C  the old button is completely covered, a new style and look is presented. Depending on the embodiment, the material for the sheath may contain a film or coating that is an antimicrobial. This feature would allow additional benefits in the healthcare setting or in any environment that antimicrobial properties are needed. 
         [0046]      FIGS. 3A-3B  illustrate one embodiment on how the device may be manufactured. The device of the present invention is flexible enough so that the end user may create their own individualized covering. Thus, depending on the embodiment, the covering may be purchased assembled or made with the end user. In the example given in  FIGS. 3A-B , the elastomeric member  14  is placed in the center of sheath  12 . The edges of the sheath are then folded over and under the elastomeric member and then bonded. The bonding may be done in various methods known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to, sewing, ultrasonic welding, heat bonding, adhesives and any combination of the previous methods given. If the elastomeric member and the sheath are unitary, then no bonding would be required, unless there was an additional fabric bonded to the sheath. 
         [0047]    As previously illustrated the covering of the present invention is not limited to a circular shape and can be any shape desired by the end user. In  FIGS. 4A-C  illustrated is just one method in obtaining a non-circular covering shape. Frame  44  may be used with elastomeric member  14  placed in the center. Sheath  42  may be placed over the frame. Bonding may occur between the sheath and the elastomeric member, or sheath, frame, and elastomeric member depending on the embodiment and requirements of the end user. If the frame is not bonded, it may be reused with another covering if re-styling is required by the end user. 
         [0048]    Furthermore, the elastomeric member is not limited to a circular configuration. As shown in  FIGS. 5A-C , elastomeric member  56  is in a non-circular configuration. Frame  54  is utilized with sheath  52  to provide a covering  50  shaped in a polygonal configuration. Frames need not be used, depending on the embodiment, to achieve a non-circular configuration of the covering. Folding the sheath in a particular shape, or using a non-circular elastomeric member may also be used to obtain a non-circular configuration. Bonding as shown in  FIG. 5C  may occur to the elastomeric member only to allow reuse of the frame material. The objective is to provide a reusable covering that will be updated readily by the end user. 
         [0049]      FIG. 6  illustrates a top view of a base covering  60 . The base covering  60  may or may not contain an antimicrobial coating depending on the embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 7 , a fabric cutout  72  may be applied to the base covering  70  to produce a decorative covering  76 . Depending on the embodiment the fabric cutout  72  may or may not be removable. In one embodiment, and adhesive  74  may be applied to the fabric cutout  72  to bond the cutout to the covering  70 . Alternatively, a removable surface, such as but not limited to Velcro® may be used to allow the cutout to be replaced with other cutout material in the future. 
         [0050]      FIG. 8  illustrates a top view of adding additional ornamental components on the fabric cutout assembly  76 . For example, indicia  82 , may include but is not limited to, rhinestone, metal, plastic, glitter, and combinations of the previous, to add an additional layer of ornamental design to the covering  84 . Again, depending on the embodiment, an adhesive  88 , may or may not be used to bond the indicia to the assembly  76 . 
         [0051]      FIG. 9  illustrates one embodiment where the covering of the present invention may be used. Shown is the device  10  on a sweater.  FIG. 10  illustrates the use of device  10  on foot wear, where the foot wear has a button or fixture that may be covered.  FIG. 11  illustrates the device  10  use on cabinetry doors. Knobs on any wood working may be updated by using the covering of the present invention. 
         [0052]      FIG. 12  illustrates the used of device  10  on a pillow or other home goods that contain buttons or other fixtures that may be covered.  FIG. 13  illustrates use of device  10  on furniture such as a chair and  FIG. 14  shows use on bedding such as a mattress. These examples are given as mere illustrations are not intended to limit the use of the device to these embodiments. 
         [0053]      FIG. 15  illustrates one embodiment of a kit that an end user may obtain. The kit  1500  includes, depending on the embodiment, an instructions for use 1502, and at least one covering  12 . The covering may or may not have the elastomeric member attached depending on the requirements of the end user. Ornamental indicia, and cut out fabric may also be included in the kit to allow the end user to customize the covering. 
         [0054]      FIG. 16-19  illustrate a wrap made of two or more disks that is constructed inside out once the two sides of the disks are attached. The disks are preferably attached at the edges. The assembled wrap is turned outside for achieving the desired end look. Shown in  FIG. 16  are two circular pieces of stretch fabric or the like. The material may be elastomeric, synthetic or natural woven or non-woven materials. The material should have the ability to stretch, however top section or disk  1601  may or may not be stretch fabric. Disk  1601  has a pattern or ornamental face  1602 . The pattern may be any ornamental pattern or have any type of ornamental attachments. The face  1602  will be the front portion of the apparatus after assembly. Disk  1603  may or may not have ornamental features depending on the embodiment.  FIG. 17  illustrates the assembly of the disks in  FIG. 16 . Disk  1603  is placed on top of disk  1601 , thereby covering most of the ornamental features of face  1602 . Disk  1603  defines a hole  1604  that enables viewing a portion of the ornamental design of disk  1601  and face  1602  when the disks are assembled: Disks  1601  and  1603  may be assembled by any means know to those skilled in the art including stitching, Velcro®, gluing, heat sealing and the like. Shown in  FIG. 17  is assembled apparatus  1701  that combined disks  1601  and  1603 . Assembly means  1702  connects the two disks together. The connection may or may not be permanent. If the connection means is not permanent, for example if the connection is releasable such as in a Velcro® example, then this particular embodiment and apparatus has the ability to switch out face  1602  and supply another ornamental face to provide various looks using the invention.  FIG. 18  illustrates pulling the ornamental face  1602  of disk  1601  through hole  1604  of assembly  1701 . In essence the assembly is being pulled inside out to hide the assembly means  1702 .  FIG. 19  illustrates the final form of the assembly  1701  with face  1602  in front and disk  1603  and hole  1604  in back of the assembly. The assembly  1701  can now be placed over a button or knob or the like through hole  1604  to provide the desired ornamental look. Various looks of the covering can be provided as previously discussed in detail. 
         [0055]    Other alternative embodiments or implementations according to the various teachings of the present invention will be understood by those skilled in the art and achieved without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended that the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments described herein but should be defined in accordance with the claims that follow.