Sewing – Method of sewing – On specified product
Reexamination Certificate
2000-07-11
2001-11-20
Izaguirre, Ismael (Department: 3765)
Sewing
Method of sewing
On specified product
C112S475140, C112S104000, C002S239000, C024S530000, C040S663000, C206S343000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06318283
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to a method and apparatus for marking fabric with colored markers. In one aspect, the system may be applied to producing decorative patterns in cloth. Under an additional aspect, the system may be used for placing markers in articles of clothing, such as socks, to facilitate matching of one sock with the other sock of a pair of socks.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In the past, numerous attempts have been made to provide an easily-implemented means for marking cloth or fabrics in a permanent or semipermanent manner. These attempts have included the use of dyes, paints, and other compositions, but such compositions are not always convenient or easy to apply, are not always permanent, and are often unsatisfactory for other reasons. In addition, there have been numerous mechanical marking means implemented in the past, such as tags, patches, plastic snaps, rivet-type elements, and the like. But these mechanical marking means are often overly complex, difficult to apply, or can be irritating to the skin when attached to clothing.
One problem in particular which the present invention addresses is the marking of hosiery so as to enable the matching of one sock of a pair of socks with the corresponding sock from that pair. There are several variables that complicate this problem. First, many people have some degree of difficulty in distinguishing dark colors, such as black and navy, particularly in low-light conditions. Secondly, in a family, there may be several individuals who wear the same size and style of hosiery, making it difficult to recognize to whom a particular pair of socks may belong. In addition, slight variations in sock style, weave pattern, size, and texture are not always readily apparent to the person sorting the laundry, and can result in mismatched pairs of socks. Accordingly, one application for the present invention is to provide an inexpensive, convenient means for marking socks so that matching pairs of socks may be easily identified.
Another use for the present invention is in the area of crafts, and, in particular, in the production of decorative crafts similar to those produced by needle point and embroidery. One consideration with the prior art in this field is that such crafts are generally considered unsuitable for young children because of the necessity of sharp needles for sewing yarn or thread into a pattern. In addition, the various stitching techniques, types of stitches, and the like, are also often too difficult for young children to master. Under the system of the invention, however, decorative patterns may be easily and safely created in fabrics for a variety of craft-type applications, such as T-shirt decoration, needlepoint-like artwork, and the like.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Under a broad aspect, the present invention sets forth a method and apparatus for marking fabric in a permanent or semipermanent manner. The invention includes a plurality of foam markers which are compressible to a smaller size. Upon release of external pressure, the foam markers tend to expand to their original shape and volume. An insertion tool is provided for inserting the foam markers into fabric. The insertion tool comprises an elongate tubular member which has a marker-receiving opening on a first end. A pointed tip is located on the second end of the insertion tool to facilitate insertion of the tool between the threads of the fabric being marked.
A marker may be compressed by rolling the marker between a thumb and finger. The compressed marker is then partially inserted into the open first end of the insertion tool so that a portion of the marker protrudes from the first end of the insertion tool. The portion of the marker which extends from the opening of the tool tends to swell back toward its original volume while the marker remains retained within the insertion tool. The pointed tip of the insertion tool is then inserted through the fabric at a desired location. As the tool is passed completely through the fabric, the portion of the marker protruding from the end of the tool catches on the fabric. The marker is pulled out of the open first end of the tool so that the other side of the marker is located on the opposite side of the fabric from the first portion of the marker. The other side of the marker swells back toward its original volume so that the marker is firmly retained within the fabric. The marker may advantageously be formed having an hour glass shape so that the marker is more securely retained in the fabric.
The above-described system may be used to match socks by placing matching markers in the socks of a matching pair of socks. The matching markers are preferably of a matching color, and may be placed in matching locations on the matching sock pair. In addition, two or more markers may be placed in each sock to increase the variety of identifying indicia created by the system of the invention. For example, four white markers may be placed in each sock of a pair of black socks. Alternatively, one red and one white marker may be placed in each sock of a pair of socks. Accordingly, it will be apparent that numerous combinations and variations can be created with the markers of the present invention.
Under an additional aspect, the invention may be used to create decorative patterns in fabrics. For example, a piece of fabric may be provided having a preprinted pattern formed on its surface. Instructions may be provided for inserting markers of particular colors into particular areas of the fabric for creating a colored decorative article. This system is particularly suitable for younger children, as they are able to roll and compress the markers and use the insertion tool without risk of injury from needles or the like. Because the insertion tool of the invention is preferably constructed of relatively soft plastic, parents do not have to worry about the children handling sharp objects or the other aforementioned shortcomings of the prior art in this area.
REFERENCES:
patent: 3103666 (1963-09-01), Bone
patent: 3470834 (1969-10-01), Bone
patent: 3651545 (1972-03-01), Hara
patent: 4058853 (1977-11-01), Boxer et al.
patent: 4344240 (1982-08-01), Schiller
patent: 4821883 (1989-04-01), Miller
patent: 5038413 (1991-08-01), Ursino
patent: 5095596 (1992-03-01), Dahood
patent: 5357660 (1994-10-01), Smith
patent: 5367809 (1994-11-01), Ross
patent: 5467510 (1995-11-01), Hartzell
patent: 6032294 (2000-03-01), Dean
patent: 6067659 (2000-05-01), Reichle
patent: 6135425 (2000-10-01), Platt
Common Sense Systems Inc.
Izaguirre Ismael
Jones Tullar & Cooper PC
LandOfFree
Method and apparatus for marking fabric does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Method and apparatus for marking fabric, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Method and apparatus for marking fabric will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2578648