Patent Publication Number: US-8973165-B1

Title: Adjustable collar stay

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application is a non-provisional of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/376,383 filed on Aug. 24, 2010, entitled “ADJUSTABLE COLLAR STAY AND METHOD OF USE”. This application is incorporated in its entirety herewith. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present embodiments generally relate to an adjustable collar stay that can be adjusted for use with various shirts having various sizes and styles of collars. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A need exists for an adjustable collar stay that can be moved between a retracted position and an extended position, enabling the adjustable collar stay to be used with different sizes and styles of shirts and shirt collars. 
     A need exists for an adjustable collar stay that can be quickly adjusted using a single hand. 
     A need exists for an adjustable collar stay that can be re-used with multiple shirts. 
     The present embodiments meet these needs. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The detailed description will be better understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings as follows: 
         FIG. 1  is a depiction of the adjustable collar stay with an upper member disconnected from a lower member. 
         FIGS. 2A-2C  depict side views of the adjustable collar stay in transition between a retracted position and an extended position. 
         FIGS. 3A-3B  depict side views of the adjustable collar stay in an extended position. 
         FIGS. 4A-4B  depict rear views of the adjustable collar stay. 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  depict side views of the adjustable collar stay with the upper member disconnected from the lower member. 
         FIG. 6  depicts a side view of the adjustable collar stay in a retracted position. 
         FIGS. 7A-7C  are depictions of the adjustable collar stay with a stabilizing arm. 
         FIGS. 8A-8B  depict a shirt with the adjustable collar stay inserted therein. 
         FIGS. 9A-9C  depict an embodiment of the upper member. 
         FIGS. 10A-10B  depict an embodiment of the lower member. 
         FIG. 11  depicts a bottom view of an embodiment of the upper member of  FIGS. 9A-9C  engaged with the lower member of  FIGS. 10A-10B . 
         FIG. 12  depicts a top view of an embodiment of the upper member of  FIGS. 9A-9C  engaged with the lower member of  FIGS. 10A-10B . 
         FIG. 13  depicts another embodiment of the adjustable collar stay. 
         FIG. 14  depicts a method for using the adjustable collar stay. 
     
    
    
     The present embodiments are detailed below with reference to the listed Figures. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     Before explaining the present apparatus in detail, it is to be understood that the apparatus is not limited to the particular embodiments and that it can be practiced or carried out in various ways. 
     The present embodiments relate to an adjustable collar stay that can be adjusted to fit a variety of shirt collars of various sizes, shapes, and styles. 
     The adjustable collar stay can include a lower member for engaging with an upper member. 
     The adjustable collar stay can be small, lightweight, easy to use, adjustable to fit a variety of collar types and sizes, strong, durable, intuitive to use, sleek and aesthetically pleasing in appearance, and can fit and function ergonomically. 
     The adjustable collar stay can be adjusted between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the adjustable collar stay can have an overall length ranging from about 0.5 inches to about 3.5 inches. In the extended position, the adjustable collar stay can have an overall length ranging from about 1 inch to about 4 inches or more. The above dimensions are for illustrative purposes only, as the adjustable collar stay can be any size necessary for fitting any shirt collar. 
     The upper member and lower member can be assembled together. The upper member and lower member can have the same shape or different shapes. 
     The lower member can be thin. For example, the lower member can have a thickness ranging from about 0.015 inches to about 0.175 inches. The lower member can have a lower member back surface, which can have a width ranging from about 0.10 inches to about 0.5 inches. 
     The lower member can have a lower member front end opposite a lower member back end, which can taper to a lower member nose. The lower member nose can be a round nose, blunt nose, pointed nose, flat plane, rounded circle, triangle, or another angular or curvilinear shape. 
     The lower member can be substantially flat, and can include a lower member top surface and a lower member bottom surface opposite the lower member top surface. 
     The lower member can include a lower member back end and a lower member front end opposite the lower member back end. The lower member front end can be tapered. 
     The lower member can also include a lower member first side connecting between the lower member back end and the lower member front end, and between a lower member top surface and the lower member bottom surface. 
     The lower member can include a lower member second side connecting between the lower member back end and the lower member front end, and between the lower member top surface and the lower member bottom surface opposite the lower member first side. 
     The lower member can include a lower engagement mechanism for engaging with the upper member. The lower engagement mechanism can be a track arm, a raised portion, or another mechanism configured to movably engage with a portion of the upper member. The lower engagement mechanism can be connected to or formed on a portion of the lower member. 
     In one or more embodiments, the raised portion can be connected to or formed on the lower member top surface between the lower member back end and the lower member front end. For example, in production of the lower member, the lower member top surface can be machined down to form the raised portion. 
     The raised portion can include a raised portion first side, raised portion second side, raised portion front side, raised portion back side, and raised portion top. The raised portion can be disposed equidistantly between the lower member first side and the lower member second side. 
     A first ledge can be formed on or connected to the lower member top surface between the raised portion and lower member first side. A second ledge can be formed on or connected to the lower member top surface between the raised portion and lower member second side. 
     A first channel can be formed within the raised portion first side. The first channel can extend from one end of the raised portion, proximate the lower member back end, to the opposite end of the raised portion, closer to the lower member front end. 
     A second channel can be formed within the raised portion second side. The second channel can extend from one end of the raised portion, proximate the lower member back end, to the opposite end of the raised portion, closer to the lower member front end. 
     The first channel and second channel can each include a plurality of engagement and resistance sites, which can be formed therein. The plurality of engagement and resistance sites can be formed as teeth-like structures formed within the channels, gear like structures formed within the channels, bumps formed within the channels, recessed portions formed within the channels, grooves formed within the channels, or any structure formed within the channels and configured to receive and retain a locking means of the upper member. 
     A height of each channel can be smaller proximate the lower member back end. For example, the channels can be tapered, such that the heights of the channels are smaller proximate the lower member back end. The height of each channel can also be tapered proximate the lower member front end, such that a central portion of each channel has a greater height than the tapered portions at the ends of the channels. 
     The upper member can be extendably, retractably, movably, and/or slidably engaged with the lower member. 
     The upper member can have a width ranging from about 0.1 inches to about 0.5 inches, and a height ranging from about 0.015 inches to about 0.175 inches. The dimensions of the upper member and lower member provided herein are for illustrative purposes only, as the components of the adjustable collar stay can be any size necessary for fitting any shirt collar. 
     The upper member can include an upper member top surface and an upper member bottom surface opposite the upper member top surface. 
     The upper member can include an upper member back end and an upper member front end opposite the upper member back end. The upper member front end can be tapered. 
     The upper member can include an upper member first side connecting between the upper member back end and the upper member tapered front end, and between the upper member top surface and the upper member bottom surface. 
     The upper member can include an upper member second side connecting between the upper member back end and the upper member tapered front end, and between the upper member top surface and the upper member bottom surface opposite the upper member first side. 
     The upper member can include a first upper side extension that can be connected to and can extend perpendicular from the upper member first side. The first upper side extension can extend downwards from the upper member bottom surface. 
     The upper member can include a second upper side extension that can be connected to and can extend perpendicular from the upper member second side. The second upper side extension can extend downwards from the upper member bottom surface. 
     The upper member can include a first upper lip that can be connected to the first upper side extension opposite the upper member first side. The first upper lip can extend perpendicular to the first upper side extension and towards the second upper side extension below the upper member bottom surface. The first upper lip can be movingly and/or slidingly engaged within the first channel. 
     The upper member can include a second upper lip that can be connected to the second upper side extension opposite the upper member second side. The second upper lip can extend perpendicular to the second upper side extension and towards the first upper side extension below the upper member bottom surface. The second upper lip can be movingly and/or slidingly engaged within the second channel. 
     In one or more embodiments, the first upper lip and the second upper lip can each have a rear portion and a front portion. Each front portion can have a first width and each rear portion can have a second width proximate the upper member back end. The second width can be larger than the first width. 
     The first channel and second channel can each have a front channel portion and a rear channel portion. Each front channel portion can have a first channel width, and each rear channel portion can have a second channel width proximate the lower member back end. The second channel width can be larger than the first channel width. 
     The transition within the channels from the second channel width to the first channel width can form a back stop within each channel. The second channel width can be configured to receive the second width of the first upper lip and second upper lip, and the first channel width can be configured to receive the first width of the first upper lip and second upper lip. 
     In operation, rear portions of the upper lips can slide within the channels until they engage with the back stops. As such, the back stops can provide a sturdy engagement between the upper member and the lower member. 
     The upper member can include a first recessed portion that can be formed within the first upper side extension and the first upper lip. The first recessed portion can be formed as an arc, a curvilinear shape, or another shape. With the upper member attached to the lower member, the first recessed portion can expose a portion of the lower member. 
     The upper member can include a second recessed portion formed within the second upper side extension and the second upper lip. The second recessed portion can be formed as an arc, a curvilinear shape, or another shape. With the upper member attached to the lower member, the second recessed portion can expose a portion of the lower member. 
     With the upper member attached to the lower member, the lower member bottom surface can function as a gripping point or can include a gripping point. In one or more embodiments, the gripping point can be formed as a concavity or a depression on the lower member bottom surface. The gripping point can have a diameter ranging from about 0.1 inches to about 0.5 inches. 
     In operation, a user can use at least one finger to engage the lower member, such as at the lower member bottom surface or the gripping point. The user can then compress the upper member, such as at a compression site of the upper member, and can slide the upper member within channels of the lower member. The user can apply pressure downwardly on the compression site, which can be followed by a slight rotation or redirection of pressure by the user&#39;s finger or thumb, which can cause a horizontal movement of the upper member with respect to the lower member. The upper member can be moved while the lower member is held steady to extend or retract the adjustable collar stay axially; thereby enabling versatile use of the adjustable collar stay with a plurality of shirts having different styles and sizes. 
     In one or more embodiments, the gripping point and the compression site can be or can include one or more grooves or one or more raised ridges that can provide a user with a frictional gripping surface. 
     The lower member can include a lower locking mechanism and the upper member can include an upper locking mechanism. The lower locking mechanism can be configured to engage with the upper locking mechanism to retain a position of the upper member relative to the lower member. The lower locking mechanism and the upper locking mechanism can be tabs, engagement and resistance sites, holes, or combinations thereof. The lower locking mechanism can be connected to or formed on a portion of the lower member. 
     The upper locking mechanism can connected to or formed on a portion of the upper member. For example, the upper locking mechanism can include a locking means that can be disposed on or connected to an inner surface of the first upper lip at the first recessed portion, the second upper lip at the second recessed portion, or combinations thereof. 
     The locking means can be formed as a tab, a knob, a ball, an extension, a node, or any other shape configured to engage within engagement and resistance sites on the lower member. In one or more embodiments, the locking means can be a ball-shaped locking member that can engage in the engagement and resistance sites. The locking means can be a cylinder with a diameter ranging from about 0.005 inches to about 0.175 inches. 
     The locking means can be configured to sequentially engage one of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites within the first channel, second channel, or combinations thereof for locking the upper member in position relative to the lower member. 
     The upper member can include more than one locking means for simultaneous engagement of multiple engagement and resistance sites. 
     In one or more embodiments, the compression site of the upper member can be formed on the upper member top surface, such as over the locking means. The compression site can be configured to allow a user to mechanically compress the upper member towards the lower member, such that the upper member temporarily flexes. 
     For example, the compression site can be a concave portion or a depression of the upper member top surface sized and configured such that a user can dispose his or her thumb therein to exert a compressive force upon the upper member. The compression site can have a diameter ranging from about 0.1 inches to about 0.5 inches. 
     In one or more embodiments, with the upper member attached to the lower member, the adjustable collar stay can include a cavity that can be formed between the upper member and lower member. The cavity can be formed between the upper member bottom surface and raised portion top surface. 
     The cavity can have a dimension or height configured to allow the upper member to mechanically compress towards the lower member for a maximum predetermined distance. The maximum predetermined distance can be a distance sufficient to allow the locking means to disengage from one of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites, without being sufficient to allow the locking means to extend past a front stop and back stop within the first channel, second channel, or combinations thereof. 
     For example, upon mechanical compression of the upper member towards the lower member, the upper member can flex and/or extend into the cavity. At a point of the extension of the upper member into the cavity, the upper member bottom surface can engage the raised portion top; thereby preventing any further compression of the upper member beyond the dimension of the cavity. As such, the upper member and locking means can be moved within the first channel and second channel, and the locking means can be engaged with another of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites. 
     The cavity can have a length ranging from about 0.5 inches to about 2.5 inches, a height ranging from about 0.015 inches to about 0.175 inches, and a depth ranging from about 0.015 inches to about 0.5 inches. 
     The cavity can have a shape that allows for mechanical compression of the upper member, thereby allowing for smooth shifting of the upper member axially over the lower member, and allowing for retraction and extension of the adjustable collar stay. As such, the adjustable collar stay can provide adaptability and versatility useful for many different sizes and styles of shirts. 
     In one or more embodiments, upon mechanical compression of the upper member, the first ledge can engage the first upper lip and the second ledge can engage the second upper lip. The engagement of the ledges with the upper lips can resist movement of the upper member to resistively stabilize the upper member on the lower member; thereby allowing the upper member to compressively extend or flex into the cavity. As such, the locking means can disengage from one of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites. 
     In one or more embodiments, the upper member can be configured to slidingly retract and extend within the first channel and second channel such that the adjustable collar stay can have a length ranging from about 0.5 inches in a retracted position to about 5 inches in an extended position. 
     In one or more embodiments, the cavity can have the back stop disposed therein. The back stop in the cavity can function to stop movement of the locking means; thereby stopping movement of the upper member with respect to the lower member. For example, portions of the channels with the smaller height proximate the lower member back end can be less than a height of the locking means, thereby forming the back stop. 
     The locking means can be configured to not fit within the portion of the channels with the smaller height, allowing the back stop to prevent movement of the locking means in a first direction beyond the back stop. 
     In one or more embodiments, the front stop can be formed in the first channel, second channel, or combinations thereof opposite the back stop. The front stop can be formed substantially the same as the back stop, such as by a tapering of the channels. The front stop can prevent movement of the locking means in a second direction beyond the front stop. The front stop can be formed in the cavity of the lower member. The front stop can stop movement of the locking means and the upper member. 
     One or more embodiments can include a stabilizing arm that can be pivotably attached to the lower member, rotatably attached to the lower member, or combinations thereof. 
     The stabilizing arm can be attached to the lower member bottom surface or lower member top surface. For example, a disc can be rotatably attached to the lower member, and the stabilizing arm can be connected to the disc. 
     The stabilizing arm can rotate with the disc when the disc is rotated. The stabilizing arm can also be pivotably attached to the disc, such that the stabilizing arm can pivot away from the lower member. 
     In one or more embodiments, the connection of the stabilizing arm to the disc and/or to the lower member can include a ratcheting mechanism for locking a position of the stabilizing arm along a pivoting arc of the stabilizing arm. The stabilizing arm can be pivotable one hundred eighty degrees about the disc. 
     One or more embodiments relate to a shirt having a collar with a collar stay slot on each side of the collar. The shirt can have an adjustable collar stay disposed within each collar stay slot. 
     In one or more embodiment, the adjustable collar stay can be made of a stainless steel, a zinc alloy, an aluminum alloy, another metal, another metal alloy, a ferrous metal, a non-ferrous metal, a non-deforming plastic, a compressible plastic, a flexible plastic, another plastic, a polymer, a reinforced polymer, a coated polymer, another material, or combinations thereof. 
     One or more embodiments of the adjustable collar stay can be made by four slide mechanical or metal stamping, or by another method. 
     In one or more embodiments, the locking means can be formed on or connected to a side of the raised portion of the lower member, rather than on the upper member. The plurality of engagement and resistance sites can be formed on or connected along an inner surface of an extension of the upper member. The recesses of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites can have an open end facing the upper member bottom surface. In operation, when the upper member is not compressed, the locking means of the lower member can be disposed within one of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites. Upon compression of the upper member, the plurality of engagement and resistance sites can extend below the locking means, thereby unlocking the upper member from the lower member. As such, the upper member can be moved with respect to the lower member to give the adjustable collar stay a desired length. The compression of the upper member can then be released, decompressing the upper member and engaging the locking means within another of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites of the lower member, thereby locking the upper member to the lower member. 
     Turning now to the Figures,  FIG. 1  depicts an embodiment of the adjustable collar stay  10  with the lower member  12  disengaged from the upper member  36 . 
     The lower member  12  can include a lower member top surface  14 , a lower member bottom surface  16 , a lower member back end  18 , a lower member front end  20  that can be tapered, a lower member first side  21 , and a lower member second side  23 . 
     The lower member  12  can have an engagement mechanism, such as a raised portion  24  connected to or formed on the lower member top surface  14 . The raised portion  24  can include a raised portion first side  26 , a raised portion second side  28 , a raised portion top side  27 , and a raised portion front side  95 . 
     A first ledge  29  can be formed on the lower member top surface  14 , and a second ledge  31  can be formed on the lower member top surface  14 . 
     A first channel  30  can be formed within the raised portion first side  26 , and a second channel  32  can be formed within the raised portion second side  28 . 
     The lower member  12  can include a lower locking mechanism. For example, the first channel  30  and second channel  32  can include a plurality of engagement and resistance sites, such as engagement and resistance sites  34   a ,  34   e , and  34   j.    
     The upper member  36  can include an upper member top surface  38 , an upper member bottom surface  40 , an upper member back end  42 , an upper member tapered front end  44 , a first upper side extension  48 , a second upper side extension  50 , a first upper lip  52 , a second upper lip  54 , a first recessed portion  55 , a second recessed portion  57 , an inner wall  97 , a first locking means  59   a  disposed on or connected to an inner surface of the first upper lip  52  at the first recessed portion  55 , and a second locking means  59   b  disposed on or connected to an inner surface  65  of the second upper lip  54  at the second recessed portion  57 . 
       FIGS. 2A-2C  depict an embodiment of the adjustable collar stay  10  with the upper member  36  engaged with the lower member  12 . The adjustable collar stay  10  is depicted in transition between two engagement and resistance sites  34 L and  34   k.    
     A compression site  22  can be formed on the upper member top surface  38  over the locking means  59 . As shown, the compression site  22  can be used to mechanically compress the upper member  36  towards the lower member  12 . 
     The locking means  59  is depicted in transition within the second channel  32  between engagement and resistance site  34 L and engagement and resistance site  34   k.    
     A front stop  82  can be formed in the second channel  32  proximate the engagement and resistance site  34   a  for preventing movement of the locking means  59  in a second direction  302  beyond the front stop  82 . 
     A back stop  80  can prevent movement of the locking means  59  in a first direction  300 . 
     Also, in operation, the inner wall  97  of the upper member  36  can engage the raised portion front side  95  of the lower member  12 . 
     The second recessed portion  57  can expose a portion of the lower member  12 . 
     In operation, a user can grip the lower member  12 , such as along the lower member bottom surface while simultaneously compressing the upper member  36  at the compression site  22 . The first recessed portion, not shown in this Figure, and the second recessed portion  57  can allow the upper member  36  to flex during compression at the compression site  22  in order to move the upper member  36  within the first channel, not shown in this Figure, and the second channel  32  to extend or retract the adjustable collar stay  10 . 
       FIGS. 3A-3B  depict an embodiment of the adjustable collar stay  10  with the upper member  36  engaged with the lower member  12 . The adjustable collar stay  10  is depicted in an extended position. Relative to the position of the upper member  36  depicted in  FIGS. 2A-2C , the upper member  36  has been moved within the second channel  32  in the first direction  300  to extend the adjustable collar stay  10 . 
     The upper member  36  can be moved back in the second direction  302  to retract the adjustable collar stay  10 . 
     The locking means  59  can be engaged within the engagement and resistance site  34   a  proximate the front stop  82 . 
       FIGS. 4A-4B  depict an end view of an embodiment of the upper member  36  engaged with the lower member  12 . 
     A cavity  33  can be formed between the upper member bottom surface  40  and the raised portion top side  27 . The cavity  33  can have a height  70 . 
     In operation, upon mechanical compression of the upper member  36  towards the lower member  12 , the upper member  36  can extend into the cavity  33 , and the raised portion top side  27  can prevent the compression of the upper member  36  beyond the height  70  of the cavity  33 . 
     Also shown are the upper member top surface  38 , the first upper side extension  48 , the first upper lip  52 , and the second upper lip  54 . The locking means  59  can be formed on an inner surface of the second upper side extension  50 . 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  depict an embodiment with the upper member  36  disengaged from the lower member  12 . 
     The second channel  32  can be tapered such that the second channel  32  has first height  35   a , a second height  35   b , and a third height  37 . 
     The first height  35   a  and second height  35   b  can be equal, and can both be less than the third height  37 . 
     The adjustable collar stay can be configured such that the locking means  59  at the second recessed portion  57  can slide within the portion of the second channel  32  having the third height  37 , without being enabled to slide within the portion of the second channel  32  having the first height  35   a  and second height  35   b.    
     Also shown are the front stop  82 , the back stop  80 , and engagement and resistance sites  34   a  and  34   j.    
       FIG. 6  depicts the adjustable collar stay  10  in a fully retracted position with the locking means  59  of the upper member  36  engaged within the engagement and resistance site  34   j  of the lower member  12 . Also depicted are engagement and resistance sites  34   a  and  34   e.    
       FIGS. 7A-7C  depict an embodiment of the adjustable collar stay  10  having the lower member  12  and the upper member  36 . 
     A disc  77  can be rotatably attached to the lower member  12 . A stabilizing arm  79  can be pivotably connected to the disc  77  with a ratcheting mechanism  81  for locking a position of the stabilizing arm  79 . 
     In operation, the ratcheting mechanism  81  can be used to lock a position of the stabilizing arm  79  along a pivoting arc  85 . 
     The lower member  12  can include a lower member recessed portion  87 . The stabilizing arm  79  can engage within the lower member recessed portion  87 . The stabilizing arm  79  can be rotatable about a rotational arc  83 . 
       FIGS. 8A-8B  depict an embodiment of a shirt  100  with collar  104 . 
     The collar  104  can have a collar stay slot  99 . The adjustable collar stay  10  can be engaged within the collar stay slot  99 . For example, the upper member  36  can be fully engaged within the collar stay slot  99 , and the lower member  12  can be partially extending out of the collar stay slot  99 . 
     The stabilizing arm  79  can be disposed outside of the collar stay slot  99  and can be engaging the shirt  100 . In operation, the ratcheting mechanism, not shown in this Figure, and the stabilizing arm  79  can be used to adjust a position of the collar  104 . The ratcheting mechanism and stabilizing arm  79  can be used to hold the position of the collar  104 , such as during windy weather conditions. 
     In one or more embodiments, the stabilizing arm  79  can be engaged on an outside surface of the collar stay slot  99  and can function to securely hold the adjustable collar stay  10  within the collar stay slot  99 . 
     As such, the adjustable collar stay  10  can be insertable into the collar stay slot  99  for maintaining a position of the collar  104 . 
       FIG. 9A  depicts a top view of the upper member  36 ,  FIG. 9B  depicts a bottom view of the upper member  36 , and  FIG. 9C  depicts a cut side view along line A-A of the upper member  36 . 
     The upper member  36  can include the upper member top surface  38 , upper member bottom surface  40  opposite the upper member top surface  38 , the upper member back end  42 , and the upper member tapered front end  44  opposite the upper member back end  42 . 
     The upper member  36  can include an upper member first side  43  connecting between the upper member back end  42  and the upper member tapered front end  44 , and between the upper member top surface  38  and upper member bottom surface  40 . 
     The upper member  36  can include an upper member second side  45  connecting between the upper member back end  42  and the upper member tapered front end  44 , and between the upper member top surface  38  and upper member bottom surface  40  opposite the upper member first side  43 . 
     The upper member  36  can include an upper engagement mechanism  15 , such as a set of sliding track arms, for movably engaging the lower member. 
     In one or more embodiments, the upper engagement mechanism  15  can be connected to or formed on a portion of the upper member. For example, the upper engagement mechanism  15  can be connected to or formed on a portion of: the upper member top surface  38 , the upper member bottom surface  40 , the upper member back end  42 , the upper member tapered front end  44 , the upper member first side  43 , the upper member second side  45 , or combinations thereof. 
     The upper member  36  can include an upper locking mechanism  17 , such as a plurality of engagement and resistance sites, for locking with the lower member. 
     In one or more embodiments, the upper locking mechanism  17  can be connected to a portion of: the upper member top surface  38 , the upper member bottom surface  40 , the upper member back end  42 , the upper member tapered front end  44 , the upper member first side  43 , the upper member second side  45 , the upper engagement mechanism  15 , or combinations thereof. 
     The upper member  36  can include one or more back stops  80   a  and  80   b  for restraining extension and retraction of the upper member  36  from the lower member. 
     The one or more back stops  80   a  and  80   b  can be formed on the upper engagement mechanism  15 . In operation, the one or more back stops  80   a  and  80   b  can be configured to engage with a portion of the lower member to prevent over extension and dislocation of the upper member  36  from the lower member. For example, during extension of the upper member  36  relative to the lower member, the one or more back stops  80   a  and  80   b  can engage with one or more stop engagement portions, shown in detail in  FIGS. 10A-10B , of the lower member to prevent further extension. 
     The upper member  36  can also include one or more front stops  82   a  for restraining extension and retraction of the upper member  36  from the lower member. 
     The one or more front stops  82   a  can be formed on the upper engagement mechanism  15 . The one or more front stops  82   a  can be configured to engage with a portion of the lower member to prevent movement of the upper member  36  past a fully retracted position relative to the lower member, and to prevent dislocation of the upper member  36  from the lower member. For example, during retraction of the upper member  36  relative to the lower member, the one or more front stops  82   a  can engage with one or more stop engagement portions, shown in later Figures, of the lower member to prevent further retraction. 
       FIGS. 10A-10B  depict an embodiment of the lower member  12  according to one or more embodiments. 
     The lower member  12  is shown with the lower member top surface  14 , lower member bottom surface  16  opposite the lower member top surface  14 , and lower member back end  18 , and lower member front end  20  opposite the lower member back end  18 . 
     The lower member  12  is shown with the lower member first side  21  connecting between the lower member back end  18  and the lower member front end  20 , and between the lower member top surface  14  and the lower member bottom surface  16 . 
     The lower member  12  is shown with the lower member second side  23  connecting between the lower member back end  18  and the lower member front end  20 , and between the lower member top surface  14  and the lower member bottom surface  16  opposite the lower member first side  21 . 
     The lower member  12  can have a lower engagement mechanism  11 , such as a set of track arms, for engaging with the upper member. 
     In one or more embodiments, the lower engagement mechanism  11  can be connected to: the lower member top surface  14 , lower member bottom surface  16 , lower member back end  18 , the lower member front end  20 , the lower member first side  21 , the lower member second side  23 , or combinations thereof. 
     The lower member  12  can have a lower locking mechanism  13 , such as a first locking tab  39   a  and second locking tab  39   b , for locking with the upper member. 
     The first locking tab  39   a  can be disposed along a portion of the lower member first side  21 , and the second locking tab  39   b  can be disposed along a portion of the lower member second side  23 . 
     In one or more embodiments, the lower locking mechanism  13  can be connected to: the lower member top surface  14 , lower member bottom surface  16 , lower member back end  18 , lower member front end  20 , lower member first side  21 , lower member second side  23 , or combinations thereof. For example, the first locking tab  39   a  and second locking tab  39   b  can extend from the lower member bottom surface  16  proximate the lower member first side  21  and lower member second side  23 . 
     The lower member  12  can have one or more stop engagement portions  84   a  and  84   b  for engaging with the back stop and front stop of the upper member. 
       FIGS. 11 and 12  depict the adjustable collar stay  10  according to one or more embodiments. 
     The lower member of the adjustable collar stay  10  can have the lower engagement mechanism, which can include a first lower track arm  19   a  disposed along a portion of the lower member first side and a second lower track arm  19   b  disposed along a portion of the lower member second side. The first lower track arm  19   a  and second lower track arm  19   b  can both extend from the lower member bottom surface  16 , and can be L-shaped. 
     The upper member of the adjustable collar stay  10  can include the upper engagement mechanism, including a first upper track arm  25   a  disposed along a portion of the upper member first side. The first upper track arm  25   a  is shown with the first upper side extension  48  connected to a first upper lip  52 . 
     The upper engagement mechanism can include a second upper track arm  25   b  disposed along a portion of the upper member second side. The second upper track arm  25   b  is shown with the second upper side extension  50  connected to the second upper lip  54 . 
     In operation, the first lower track arm  19   a  can be configured to movably engage over the first upper track arm  25   a , and the second lower track arm  19   b  can be configured to movably engage over the second upper track arm  25   b.    
     The upper member of the adjustable collar stay  10  can include the upper locking mechanism, including a plurality of engagement and resistance sites, such as engagement and resistance sites  34   a  and  34   b . The plurality of engagement and resistance sites  34   a  and  34   b  can be disposed along the first upper side extension  48  or the first lip  52 , and along the second upper side extension  50  or the second lip  54 . 
     In operation, the first locking tab  39   a  can be configured to engage within the engagement and resistance sites along the first upper track arm  25   a , such as the engagement and resistance site  34   a . The second locking tab  39   b  can be configured to engage within the engagement and resistance sites along the second upper track arm  25   b , such as the engagement and resistance site  34   b.    
     For example, the first locking tab  39   a  and second locking tab  39   b  can each have a curved portion that extends into one of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites  34   a  and  34   b.    
     In operation, a user can apply enough force to disengage the first locking tab  39   a  and second locking tab  39   b  from one the plurality of engagement and resistance sites  34   a  and  34   b  to move the upper member relative to the lower member and extend and retract the adjustable collar stay  10 . As such, the upper locking mechanism can be configured to engage with the lower locking mechanism to maintain a degree of extension of the upper member relative to the lower member. 
     In one or more embodiment, the adjustable collar stay  10  can include a lower locking mechanism having a single locking tab disposed along a portion of the lower member, and the upper locking mechanism can include a plurality of engagement and resistance sites disposed along a portion of the upper member. The single locking tab can be configured to engage within one of the plurality of engagement and resistance sites. 
     The stabilizing arm  79  can be connected to the lower member bottom surface  16  proximate the lower member back end. For example, a stabilizing arm connector  86  can extend from the lower member bottom surface  16  to engage with the stabilizing arm  79 . 
     In operation, the stabilizing arm  79  can be retained parallel to the lower member bottom surface  16  by one or more stabilizing arm tabs  88 . The stabilizing arm  79  can be pivotable from the lower member bottom surface  16  to extend therefrom. 
     The stabilizing arm  79  can be used to stabilize and orient a position of a collar having the adjustable collar stay  10  inserted therein. 
     The connection of the stabilizing arm  79  to the lower member bottom surface  16  can include the ratcheting mechanism  81 . In operation, as the stabilizing arm  79  pivots from the lower member bottom surface  16 , the ratcheting mechanism  81  can engage the stabilizing arm  79  to lock a position of the stabilizing arm  79  along a pivoting arc. 
     In one or more embodiments, the stabilizing arm  79  can be rotatably connected to the lower member bottom surface  16 . 
     Also shown is the upper member bottom surface  40 , the lower member front end  20 , one or more stop engagement portions  84   a  and  84   b , the lower member top surface  14 , and the upper member top surface  38 . 
       FIG. 13  depicts the adjustable collar stay  10  according to one or more embodiments. 
     The upper member  36  is shown engaged with the lower member  12 . The upper member  36  is shown with an upper locking mechanism  17 , shown here as a locking tab. The upper locking mechanism  17  can be formed substantially similar to the lower locking mechanism depicted in  FIGS. 10A-10B . 
     The lower member  12  is shown with the lower locking mechanism  13 , shown here as a plurality of engagement and resistance sites. The lower locking mechanism  13  can be formed substantially similar to the upper locking mechanism depicted in  FIGS. 9A-9C . 
     The upper locking mechanism  17  can be configured to be engaged with the lower locking mechanism  13 . 
       FIG. 14  depicts an embodiment of a method for stiffening a collar of a shirt using a first adjustable collar stay and a second adjustable collar stay. 
     The method can include moving upper members of each adjustable collar stay relative to lower members of each adjustable collar stay using upper engagement mechanisms and lower engagement mechanisms; thereby extending and/or retracting each adjustable collar stay to a desired adjustable collar stay length for fitting within collar stay slots on the collar of the shirt, as illustrated by box  1400 . 
     The method can include engaging upper locking mechanisms of each upper member with lower locking mechanisms of each lower member to retain the desired adjustable collar stay length, as illustrated by box  1402 . 
     The method can include inserting the first adjustable collar stay into a first collar stay slot of the shirt, and inserting the second adjustable collar stay into a second collar stay slot of the shirt, as illustrated by box  1404 . 
     The method can include pivoting stabilizing arms of each adjustable collar stay until the stabilizing arms are engaged with the collar below a seam of the shirt, rotating the stabilizing arms to position the collar to a desired collar position, and locking the stabilizing arms using a ratcheting mechanism to retain the desired collar position, as illustrated by box  1406 . 
     While these embodiments have been described with emphasis on the embodiments, it should be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the embodiments might be practiced other than as specifically described herein.