Abstract:
The invention provides a novel faux fingernail device to provide an efficient finger or toe ring to which a faux fingernail is slidably attachable. The fingernail slides into grooves along the sides and across the top of the ring into which the fingernail can slide and which holds the fingernail.

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/134,872, filed Jun. 20, 2011, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/358,396, filed Jun. 24, 2010. The contents of both of these prior applications are incorporated herein by reference, as though they were set forth herein in their entirety. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates generally to the field of artificial nails and more specifically relates to a finger or toe ring to which a faux fingernail is integrally attached. 
         [0003]    While painted nails have and always will be popular, new and exciting means of adorning nails and attaching artificial nails are constantly being created. Since painting and adorning natural nails manually is an expensive and time consuming process, and are sometimes difficult to grow, consumers are constantly searching for ways to create a set of beautifully manicured nails in little time and with minimal effort and without the work associated with executing a manicure to natural nails or applying artificial nails. Additionally, a growing concern is arising relating to the health detriments associated with the application of acrylic nails. Various attempts have been made to solve problems found in the artificial nail art. 
         [0004]    Among these are: U.S. Pat. No. 4,665,934 to Jefferson describes a fingernail guard comprising a main body member which engages the finger, and a number of shield members removably engages with the main body member. 
         [0005]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,899,557 to Schwartz describes a stable fingernail ring comprising a ring, which fits around the tip of the finger having an embellishment, which rests against the fingernail. Schwartz. 
         [0006]    U.S. Pat. No. 7,222,628 to King describes an artificial nail apparatus comprising an artificial nail, which fits over an existing nail wherein the artificial nail is attached to a bridge portion longitudinally traversing pad of the finger and encircles the tip of the finger. 
         [0007]    None of these references describe the present invention. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known artificial nail art, the present invention provides a novel faux fingernail device. The general purpose of the present invention, which will be described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide an efficient finger or toe ring to which a faux fingernail is slidably attachable. The fingernail slides into grooves along the sides and across the top of the ring into which the fingernail can slide and which holds the fingernail. The features of the invention which, are believed to be novel are particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. 
         [0009]    It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved method of applying an artificial nail to the digit of a wearer. 
         [0010]    It is a further object of the present invention to provide a decorative means of applying an artificial nail to the digit of a wearer. 
         [0011]    These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings and detailed description. 
     
    
     
       BRIE DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0012]      FIG. 1  shows a perspective view illustrating a finger or toe ring to which a faux fingernail is slidably attachable thereto according to an embodiment of the present invention showing a single ring member. 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of the finger or toe ring to which a faux fingernail is slidably attachable thereto showing a decorated single ring member. 
           [0014]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view illustrating yet another embodiment of the finger or toe ring to which a faux fingernail is slidably attachable thereto according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0015]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of the finger or toe ring to which a faux fingernail is slidably attachable thereto showing a decorated double ring member. 
           [0016]      FIG. 5  is a front view of the ring of the present invention showing the grooves on the sides into which the fingernail slides. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0017]    The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, this embodiment is provided so that this application will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the true scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. 
         [0018]    The present invention relates to an artificial nail device and more particularly to a finger or toe ring to which a faux fingernail is slidably attachable as used to create a set of manicured nails in little time and with minimal effort. 
         [0019]    Humans, especially women, have enjoyed and employed manicures throughout history. Today, more than ever, the manicure is an increasingly popular service enjoyed by many people. 
         [0020]    Many women prefer elaborate manicures which can include the application of acrylic nails or tips, followed by fancy airbrushed designs and even nail jewelry. Others prefer nails sculpted of acrylic powder or fiberglass wraps, followed by a colorful array of polish. While painted nails have and always will be popular, professional manicurists as well as their clients are constantly searching for new and exciting means of styling nails. 
         [0021]    Referring now to the drawings the figures show various embodiments of the Nail Ring. The Nail Ring may comprise a ring which fits around the wearer&#39;s finger below the base of the natural nail, onto which an artificial fingernail may be slidably attachable and the faux fingernail may specifically be configured to slide into channels along the sides of the ring to rest flush over the user&#39;s natural nail. The Nail Ring may be designed to rest above the upper knuckle, directly below the nail plate and may preferably be manufactured of lightweight and flexible plastic material. The Nail Ring may comprise a decorated support portion, as shown in  FIG. 2 . 
         [0022]    In an embodiment, the ring can comprise a double ring decorated support portion, as seen in  FIG. 4 . 
         [0023]    The Nail Ring can be manufactured in a variety of flesh tones, thus discreetly blending with the user&#39;s skin. Alternatively, the Nail Ring may be manufactured of metal material, with silver, gold or platinum versions made available. 
         [0024]    The Nail Ring can be manufactured in the configuration of an incomplete circle, as shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  4 , so as to fit a variety of finger sizes. Other embodiments, not shown may include complete circles in a variety of sizes to accommodate the four fingers and thumbs and to accommodate a variety of finger sizes. Still other embodiments may provide means to make the ring fully adjustable, the Nail Ring, such as, for example, a simple sliding mechanism which may be incorporated into the design of the ring and which may enable the user to expand or contract the unit to fit their own finger. 
         [0025]    The Nail Ring may be manufactured of metal, plastic or acrylic material and the fingernail may be produced in sizes appropriate for the thumbnail and individual fingernails. 
         [0026]    The nails may be produced in a variety of lengths and shapes to accommodate different manicure looks. The Nail Ring fingernail may be “polished” in a variety of brilliant hues, with fancy embellishments such as faux gemstones or fancy airbrushing to create a number of dynamic looks. The Nail Ring may be produced in sizes appropriate for wear on the toes, thus enabling the user to easily create a fancy pedicure. 
         [0027]    A method of using the Nail Ring may comprise: the user may purchase individual or a complete set of Nail Rings in accordance to size and design preference. For instance, one might choose to wear only one Nail Ring adorned with a fancy faux gemstone to add an accent to a set of manicured natural nails. Alternatively, one might wear a full set of ten Nail Rings. Wear of the Nail Ring involves sliding the ring over the upper finger or thumb and positioning the slidably attached faux nail so that it rests flush over the natural nail. The user then makes any necessary adjustment to the Nail Ring(s) for a comfortable and secure fit. After use, the Nail Ring can simply be removed and stored away along with other jewelry and personal items until again needed. When desired, a new nail can be slid into the grooves along the sides of the ring. 
         [0028]    The Nail Ring offers consumers a number of significant benefits and advantages. The Nail Ring provides a new and exciting means of embellishing the nails, and offers consumers a fresh approach to a manicure. Consumers may appreciate that these fancy, easily applied rings would provide an attractive means of creating a beautiful, manicured look, simply by sliding a ring over the finger. Worn as a full set, the Nail Ring may enable the user to create a set of beautifully manicured nails in little time and with minimal effort. 
         [0029]    Worn individually, Nail Rings can be adorned with fancy gemstones or other decorative stones. Stylish and trendy, these striking rings and attached faux nails enable consumers to enjoy dazzling nail jewelry, without the expense and time associated with painting and adorning the nails manually. A fancy show piece, the Nail Ring can be enjoyed by everyone. Professional manicurists may also appreciate the Nail Ring, enabling them to adorn their client&#39;s nails in a quick and easy manner. 
         [0030]    The fingernail can be changed to accommodate the activities of the user. Fingernails of various lengths can be inserted into the grooves. Sizes may be short, medium or long. 
         [0031]    The Nail Ring is a cleverly designed product line, which enables consumers to create a stylish and distinct manicure, in a simple and efficient manner. 
         [0032]    Although this invention has been described with respect to specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited thereto and various modifications which will become apparent to the person of ordinary skill in the art are intended to fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as described herein taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.