Patent Grant
7980433
The present invention relates to ball cap stretching and blocking systems. Blocking, as defined herein, refers to the process of holding a hat in a shape to impart a definite shape to a hat. More particularly, the present invention relates to a ball cap blocker and stretcher that provides simultaneous ball cap stretching and steaming. The stretching and steaming functions assist in removing undesired creases in the material of ball caps. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to a ball cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that is portable for home use. Also, the present invention relates to a ball cap blocker and stretcher that optionally avoids steaming the decorated front portion of the ball cap, typically displaying, for example, a sports team logo. Even more particularly, the present invention also relates to a ball cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that additionally provides heated air drying of the ball cap.
Modern ball caps have risen to the status of a fashion statement. Thus, it is becoming increasingly important to keep ball caps looking pristine, crisp, and fresh (by cap wearers and retailers). Also, modern ball caps have become collector's items. Further, the licensing of trademarks for placement on ball caps is ever present. The most widely recognized name in the licensed ball cap arena is New Era, the largest sports-licensed headwear company in the U.S. and the official ball cap licensee of MLB. A New Era cap, typically a fitted cap, has a very distinctive look comprising a flat bill, a squared front crown, and a holographic sticker validating the authenticity of the cap placed on the cap's visor. Ball caps bearing a licensed logo generally range in price from $29 up to $300 for collector versions, with $2,000 premium caps, such as the Zerino “Elita” and “Dominiani”, emerging in the market for the first time. Modern ball caps range from a simple ball cap with a functional use to investments.
Typical materials in a ball cap respond to heating, steaming, and stretching. Ball caps, especially those comprising wool and buckram, can warp when wet. However heating and steaming can restore the shape of a ball cap. The fibers in wool typically respond quickly to steaming. Buckram, a rigid, malleable material which is typically contained within the front two panels of a ball cap may be shaped by heating or steaming. The buckram weave enables an embroidered logo on the cap's crown to hold its shape. A cap's sweatband typically comprises cotton and because of its position close to the head, it dirties quickly necessitating frequent washing.
No system exists that provides simultaneous ball cap stretching and steaming. Further, no system exists that provides a ball cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that is portable for home use. Also, no system exists that optionally avoids steaming the decorated front portion of the ball cap. Even more particularly, no system exists that provides a ball cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that provides heated air drying of the ball cap.
Therefore, a need exists for a system that provides simultaneous ball cap stretching and steaming. Further, a need exists for a system that provides a ball cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that is portable for home use. Also, a need exists for a system that optionally avoids steaming the decorated front portion of the ball cap. Even more particularly, a need exists for a system that provides a ball cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that provides heated air drying of the ball cap.
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide a ball cap stretching and blocking systems.
A further object and feature of the present invention is to provide simultaneous ball cap stretching and steaming. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system that is portable for home use. It is yet another object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system that protects the decorated front portion of a baseball cap from steam. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system that provides heated air-drying of the ball cap.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent with reference to the following descriptions.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a ball cap blocking and stretching system, relating to blocking at least one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at least one crown and at least one brim, such at least one crown having at least one front, at least one inside surface, and at least one outside surface, such ball cap blocking and stretching system comprising: at least one steamer structured and arranged to steam such at least one crown, such at least one steamer comprising at least one crown-contourer structured and arranged to contour such at least one crown adjacent such at least one inside surface of such at least one crown, at least one steam generator structured and arranged to generate steam, wherein such at least one steam generator is located substantially within such at least one crown-contourer, wherein such at least one crown contourer comprises at least one aperture structured and arranged to emit steam from such at least one steam generator through such at least one aperture; at least one stretcher structured and arranged to stretch such at least one crown, such at least one stretcher comprising at least one front-contourer structured and arranged to contour such at least one front of such at least one crown adjacent to such at least one inside surface of such at least one crown and adjacent to such at least one brim, at least one mover structured and arranged to move such at least one front-contourer relative to such at least one crown-contourer, and at least one stretcher fixator structured and arranged to temporarily fix the relative position of such at least one front-contourer and such at least one crown-contourer when such at least one mover is moved; and at least one brim positioner structured and arranged to position such at least one brim relative to at least one front of such at least one crown, wherein such at least one brim positioner is attached to such at least one front-contourer. Moreover, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one steamer comprises at least one water storage tank structured and arranged to store at least one amount of water. Additionally, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one steam generator comprises at least one heat generator structured and arranged to generate heat; and wherein such at least one heat generator comprises at least one electrical heating element. Also, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system further comprising at least one steam controller structured and arranged to control steam generation by such at least one steam generator. In addition, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one steam controller comprises at least one water pump structured and arranged to pump water from such at least one water storage tank to such at least one heat generator; and at least one water valve structured and arranged to release water from such at least one water storage tank to such at least one heat generator. And, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one steam aperture comprises a plurality of steam apertures through such at least one crown-contourer, distributed about such at least one crown-contourer, and placed adjacent such at least one inside surface of such at least one ball cap. Further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one front-contourer comprises a plurality of steam apertures through such at least one front-contourer. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system further comprising at least one size indicator structured and arranged to indicate to a user at least one user-selectable stretchable size of at least one ball cap when at least one ball cap is placed on such ball cap blocking and stretching system, wherein such user-selectable stretchable sizes are based on the relative positions of such at least one crown-contourer and such at least one front-contourer. Moreover, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system further comprising at least one support base structured and arranged to support at least such at least one steamer, such at least one stretcher, and such at least one brim positioner above at least one surface. Additionally, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system further comprising at least one handle structured and arranged to assist portably handling such ball cap blocking and stretching system. Also, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 1 further comprising at least one hot air blower structured and arranged to blow hot air to at least one ball cap when at least one ball cap is placed on such at least one crown contourer. In addition, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one hot air blower comprises at least one heating element structured and arranged to generate heat; at least one fan to blow such generated heat as hot air; at least one port structured and arranged to pass hot air from such at least hot air blower to at least one ball cap when such at least one ball cap is placed on such at least one crown contourer. And, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one hot air blower is located substantially within such at least one crown contourer. Further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one screw-drive. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one ratchet-drive.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a ball cap blocking and stretching kit, relating to blocking at least one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at least one crown and at least one brim, such at least one crown having at least one front, at least one inside surface, and at least one outside surface, such ball cap blocking and stretching kit comprising: at least one blocker structured and arranged to block at least one ball cap wherein such at least one blocker comprises at least one steamer structured and arranged to steam such at least one crown, such at least one steamer comprising at least one crown-contourer structured and arranged to contour such at least one crown adjacent such at least one inside surface of such at least one crown, and at least one steam generator structured and arranged to generate steam, wherein such at least one steam generator is located substantially within such at least one crown-contourer, wherein such at least one crown contourer comprises at least one aperture structured and arranged to emit steam from such at least one steam generator through such at least one aperture; at least one stretcher structured and arranged to stretch such at least one crown, such at least one stretcher comprising at least one front-contourer structured and arranged to contour such at least one front of such at least one crown adjacent to such at least one inside surface of such at least one crown and adjacent to such at least one brim, at least one mover structured and arranged to move such at least one front-contourer relative to such at least one crown-contourer, and at least one stretcher fixator structured and arranged to temporarily fix the relative position of such at least one front-contourer and such at least one crown-contourer when such at least one mover is moved; and at least one brim positioner structured and arranged to position such at least one brim relative to at least one front of such at least one crown, wherein such at least one brim positioner is attached to such at least one front-contourer; at least one packaging structured and arranged to package such at least one blocker; and at least one instruction structured and arranged to instruct at least one user in the use of such at least one blocker. Moreover, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching kit further comprising at least one second front-contourer interchangeable with such at least one front-contourer. Additionally, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching kit wherein such at least one front-contourer comprises at least one front steam aperture through such at least one front-contourer. Also, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching kit further comprising at least one cleaning solution. In addition, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching kit further comprising at least one stain remover solution. And, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching kit further comprising at least one stiffening solution. Further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching kit further comprising at least one ball cap washing basket.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a ball cap blocking and stretching method, relating to blocking at least one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at least one crown and at least one brim, such at least one crown having at least one front, at least one inside surface, and at least one outside surface, such ball cap blocking and stretching system comprising the steps of: acquiring at least one ball cap blocker streamer stretcher, wherein such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher weighs less than about ten pounds; adding water to at least one water reservoir of such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher; selecting at least one ball cap; placing such at least one ball cap on such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher; steaming such at least one ball cap; stretching such at least one ball cap; removing such at least one ball cap from such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher; and storing such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method further comprising the step of drying such at least one ball cap prior to the step of removing such at least one ball cap from such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method further comprising the step of washing such at least one ball cap prior to such step of placing such at least one ball cap on such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method further comprising the step of applying at least one ball cap treatment solution to such at least one ball cap. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method further comprising the step of restricting such step of steaming such at least one ball cap to steaming such at least one crown of such at least one ball cap. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method further comprising the step of restricting such step of steaming such at least one ball cap to steaming areas of such at least one ball cap that do not comprise embroidery. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method further comprising the step of restricting such step of steaming such at least one ball cap to steaming areas of such at least one ball cap that do not comprise decorative printing.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a ball cap blocking system, relating to blocking at least one ball cap having at least one inside surface, at least one outside surface, at least one crown, and at least one brim, comprising; steamer means for steaming such at least one crown, comprising crown-contour means for contouring such at least one crown adjacent such at least one inside surface, steam generator means for generating steam, wherein such steam generator means is located substantially within such crown-contour means, steam aperture means for providing steam apertures through such crown-contour means, and at least one steam controller means for controlling steam generation; stretcher means for stretching such at least one crown, comprising front-contour means for contouring at least one front of such at least one crown adjacent such at least one inside surface and adjacent such at least one brim, at least one mover means for moving such front-contour means relative to such crown-contour means, and stretcher fixation means for temporarily fixing the relative position of such front-contour means and such crown-contour means; at least one brim positioner means for positioning such at least one brim relative to such at least one front of such at least one crown, wherein such at least one brim positioner means is attached to such front contour means; at least one size indicator means for indicating the size of such at least one ball cap based on the relative positions of such crown-contour means and such front-contour means; and at least one housing means for housing such steamer means, such stretcher means, such at least one brim positioner means, and such at least one size indicator means.
Moreover, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, further comprising at least one handle means for handling such at least one housing means. Additionally, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such steamer means comprises heat generator means for generating heat. Also, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such heat generator means comprises at least one electric heating element. In addition, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such steamer means comprises water storage means for storing water prior to heating such water into steam. And, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one steam controller means comprises water pump means for pumping water from such water storage means to such heat generator means. Further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one steam controller means comprises water valve means for releasing water from such water storage means to such heat generator means.
Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one mover means comprises stretcher fixation releaser means for releasing such stretcher fixation means whereby such front-contour means is again able to move relative to such crown-contour means. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one mover means comprises grip means for gripping such front-contour means and such at least one housing means simultaneously. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one housing means comprises steam aperture means for providing steam apertures through such at least one housing means. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one housing means, such stretcher means, such at least one brim positioner means, and such at least one size indicator means together weigh less than about ten pounds. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein at least one of such at least one housing means, such stretcher means, such at least one brim positioner means, and such at least one size indicator means comprises plastic.
Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such steam aperture means comprises a plurality of steam apertures through such crown-contour means, distributed about such crown-contour means, and adjacent such inside surface of such ball cap. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is adjustable between a circumference of not less than fifteen inches and a circumference of not more than thirty inches. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is adjustable between a circumference of not less than nineteen inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-seven inches. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is adjustable between a circumference of not less than nineteen inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-three inches. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is adjustable between a circumference of not less than twenty-two inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-six inches. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is adjustable between a circumference of not less than twenty-one inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-four inches.
Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such front-contour means comprises front steam aperture means for providing steam apertures through such front-contour means. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such front-contour means is structured and arranged to conform to the contour of the front of at least one low-profile ball cap. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such front-contour means is structured and arranged to conform to the contour of the front of at least one high-profile ball cap. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one mover means comprises at least one screw-drive. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one mover means comprises at least one ratchet-drive.
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher system 100 is adapted to stretch and/or steam ball caps 500, as shown in
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher system 100 comprises ball cap blocker and stretcher 101, as shown. Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprises steamer 105, stretcher 140, brim positioner 160, size indicator 170, and housing 180, as shown. Preferably, the housing of the systems described herein acts as a support base for at least the steamer, stretcher, and brim positioner, as shown. Preferably, housing 180 may be placed on a user-desired surface, such as a counter or desk. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other ball cap blocker and stretcher components, such as a dryer, a clamp to shape the brim, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, steamer 105 comprises crown-contourer 110, steam generator 120, steam aperture 125, and steam controller 130, as shown. Preferably, crown-contourer 110 is adapted to approximately match the contour of crown 505 adjacent inside surface 515, as shown. Preferably, crown-contourer 110 is approximately shaped like the inside of ball cap 500, as shown. More preferably, crown-contourer 110 is approximately hemispherical, as shown. Preferably, steam generator 120 generates steam, as shown in
Preferably, steam controller 130 permits the user to control the generation of steam by steam generator 120, as shown in
Preferably, stretcher 140 (at least embodying herein at least one stretcher fixator structured and arranged to temporarily fix the relative position of such at least one front-contourer and such at least one crown-contourer) comprises front-contourer 145, mover 150, and stretcher fixator 155, as shown. Preferably, front-contourer 145 is adapted to approximately match the contour of ball cap 500 adjacent the front portion of inside surface 515 and preferably adjacent brim 510, as shown in
Preferably, front-contourer 145 does not comprise steam apertures 125, as shown. Preferably, front-contourer 145 shields the front of crown 505 and brim 510 from steam, as shown in
Preferably, mover 150 comprises stretcher fixator 155, as shown. Preferably, stretcher fixator 155 is adapted to temporarily lock front-contourer 145 in place relative to crown-contourer 110, as shown. Preferably, stretcher fixator 155 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one stretcher fixator releaser structured and arranged to release such stretcher fixator whereby such at least one front-contourer is again able to move relative to such at least one crown-contourer) comprises a ratchet system, as further shown and described in
Preferably, brim positioner 160 is adapted to position brim 510 relative to the front of crown 505, as shown in
Preferably, size indicator 170 is adapted to indicate the size of ball cap 500 based on the relative positions of crown-contourer 110 and front-contourer 145, as shown. Preferably, size indicator comprises ball cap size indicators in at least the following ball cap dimensions: 6, 6⅛, 6¼, 6⅜, 6½, 6⅝, 6¾, and 6⅞, 7, 7⅛, 7¼, 7⅜, 7½, 7⅝, 7¾, 7⅞, 8, 8⅛, 8¼, 8⅜, etc. Preferably, moving front-contourer 145 relative to crown-contourer 110 changes the length of the circumference around front-contourer 145 and crown-contourer 110, measured adjacent brim positioner 160, which circumference is preferably correlated to standard hat sizes. Preferably, markings 172 indicate the size of ball cap 500, as shown. Preferably, stretcher 140 is adjustable between a circumference of not less than fifteen inches and a circumference of not more than thirty inches. More preferably, stretcher 140 is adjustable between a circumference of not less than nineteen inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-seven inches. Preferably, stretcher 140 is adjustable between a circumference of not less than nineteen inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-three inches. Preferably, stretcher 140 is adjustable between a circumference of not less than twenty-two inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-six inches. Most preferably, stretcher 140 is adjustable between a circumference of not less than twenty-one inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-four inches. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other circumferences, other measurement methods, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, housing 180 is adapted to house steamer 105 (at least embodying herein at least one steamer structured and arranged to steam such at least one crown), stretcher 140 (at least embodying herein at least one stretcher structured and arranged to stretch such at least one crown), brim positioner 160 (at least embodying herein at least one brim positioner structured and arranged to position such at least one brim relative to such at least one front of such at least one crown, wherein such at least one brim positioner is attached to such at least one front-contourer), and size indicator 170 (at least embodying herein at least one size indicator structured and arranged to indicate the size of such at least one ball cap based on the relative positions of such at least one crown-contourer and such at least one front-contourer), as shown. Preferably, mover 150 comprises at least one grip 152 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one grip structured and arranged to assist gripping such at least one front-contourer and such at least one housing simultaneously) adapted to assist gripping front-contourer 145 and housing 180 simultaneously so that front-contourer 145 can be easily pulled forward along track 182 in housing 180 in order to stretch ball cap 500, as shown in
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprises handle 190, as shown. Preferably, handle 190 (at least embodying herein at least one handle structured and arranged to handle such at least one housing) is molded into housing 180, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other handles, such as external handles, removable handles, multiple handles, no handle, handles positioned near a crown-contourer, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, housing 180 comprises at least one steam aperture 185 through housing 180, as shown. Preferably, steam flows from steam generator 120 through steam apertures 185 to the exterior of housing 180 (at least embodying herein at least one housing structured and arranged to house such at least one steamer, such at least one stretcher, such at least one brim positioner, and such at least one size indicator). Preferably, steam apertures 185 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one housing comprises at least one steam aperture through such at least one housing) are located in housing 180 adjacent crown-contourer 110, as shown. Preferably, steam apertures 185 focus additional steam onto the lower edge of crown 505, which typically comprises multiple layers of fabric or other reinforcement. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other steam aperture positions, such as under brim positioner 160, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 weighs less than about ten pounds (with an empty water reservoir). Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one housing, such at least one stretcher, such at least one brim positioner, and such at least one size indicator together weigh less than about ten pounds) is portable due to the low weight. Preferably, in order to reduce weight, at least one of housing 180, stretcher 140, brim positioner 160, and size indicator 170 comprises plastic (at least embodying herein wherein at least one of such at least one housing, such at least one stretcher, such at least one brim positioner, and such at least one size indicator comprises plastic). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other weights portable by a single user, such as under fifteen pounds, under five pounds, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, crown-contourer 110 comprises steam distribution channels 250. Preferably, steam distribution channels 250 help to distribute steam evenly to crown 505. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other steam distribution methods, such as crown-contourer comprising mesh, crown-contourer comprising evenly perforated material, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, mover 150 comprises at least one ratchet-drive 600, as shown. Preferably, ratchet-drive 600 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one ratchet-drive) comprises gear rack 605 on front-contourer 145, ratchet gear 610, ratchet hold-back 615, ratchet arm 620, and ratchet release 625, as shown. Preferably, ratchet gear 610 pushes gear rack 605 forward in track 182 in order to stretch ball cap 500. Preferably, ratchet hold-back 615 holds ratchet gear 610 to prevent ratchet gear 610 from turning clockwise (which would permit front contourer 145 to move backwards toward crown-contourer 110). Preferably, ratchet release 625 releases ratchet hold-back 615 from ratchet gear 610, permitting front contourer 145 to move backwards toward crown-contourer 110. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other ratchet systems may suffice.
Preferably, heat generator 123 comprises electrical heating element 650, as shown. Preferably, electrical heating element 650 is electrically connected to electrical plug 655, as shown. Preferably, electrical plug 655 plugs in to a standard household electrical outlet. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other power sources, such as batteries, solar cells, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, steamer 105 comprises water storage tank 660, as shown, adapted to store water prior to heating such water into steam. Preferably, water tank 660 is located within crown-contour 110 above heat generator 123, as shown. Preferably, steam controller 130 comprises pump bladder 662, as shown. Preferably, pump bladder 662 comprises at least one pump and/or valve adapted to release and/or pump water from water tank 660 when activated, as shown. Preferably, water is gravity-fed from water storage tank 660 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one steamer comprises at least one water storage tank structured and arranged to store water prior to heating such water into steam) into heat generator 123 when pump bladder 662 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one steam controller comprises at least one water pump structured and arranged to pump water from such at least one water storage tank to such at least one heat generator; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one steam controller comprises at least one water valve structured and arranged to release water from such at least one water storage tank to such at least one heat generator) is depressed by activating steam controller 130 (preferably by pressing steam button 132), as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other water storage arrangements, such as storing the water in the housing, powered water pumps, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, water is added to water storage tank 660 through filling port 668. Preferably, filling port 668 extends through crown-contourer 110, as shown. Preferably, filling port 668 is closed with cap 669, as shown.
The above arrangement at least embodying herein at least one ball cap blocker streamer stretcher.
Preferably, mover 750 is adapted to move crown-contourer 710 relative to front-contourer 745, as shown. Preferably, mover 750 is adapted to move crown-contourer 710 horizontally relative to front-contourer 745, as shown. Preferably, mover 750 comprises at least one screw-drive 755 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one screw-drive), as shown.
Preferably, screw-drive 755 comprises screw 780, track 785, track clip 786, and threaded axle 790, as shown. Preferably, threaded axle 790 runs along track 785 as screw 780 is turned. Preferably, screw 780 is tight enough that screw 780 remains fixed in place after tightening until the user turns it again.
Preferably, steam controller 130 comprises steam button 732, as shown. Preferably, pressing steam button 732 triggers steam release from crown-contourer 710. Under appropriate circumstances pressing steam button 732 functions to momentarily supply power to the steam generator in order to enhance safety and operational economy to reduce electrical load associated with continuous operation of the heating element of the steam generator.
Preferably, front-contourer 745, front-contourer 845, front-contourer 850, front-contourer 855 are interchangeable by the user in ball cap blocker and stretcher 101. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other front contourers, such as heated front-contourers, no front-contourers, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, kit 900 comprises ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 including at least one first front-contourer 145, packaging 910 (at least embodying herein at least one packaging structured and arranged to packaging such at least one blocker) adapted package said ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 for sale; and instructions 920 (at least embodying herein at least one instruction structured and arranged to instruct at least one user in the use of such at least one blocker) to instruct a user in the use of ball cap blocker and stretcher 101, as shown.
Preferably, kit 900 (at least embodying herein a ball cap blocking kit) comprises at least one second front-contourer 145 interchangeable with said at least one first front-contourer 145 (at least embodying herein at least one second front-contourer interchangeable with such at least one front-contourer), as shown. Preferably, said at least one second front-contourer 145 comprises front-contourer 845, as shown.
Preferably, kit 900 comprises cleaning solution 930, as shown. Preferably, cleaning solution 930 comprises a cleaning solution adapted to remove sweat and dirt from fabric, such as, for example, laundry detergent. Preferably, kit 900 comprises stain remover solution 940, as shown. Preferably, stain remover solution 940 comprises a stain remover adapted to remove stains from fabric, such as, for example, dry-cleaning solvent. Preferably, kit 900 comprises stiffening solution 950, as shown. Preferably, stiffening solution 950 comprises a stiffening solution adapted to stiffen the fabric of ball cap 500. Preferably, stiffening solution 950 interacts with the steam generated by ball cap steamer 101 to stiffen ball cap 500. Preferably, stiffening solution 950 comprises liquid starch solution. Such solutions (cleaning, stain remover, stiffening) also referred to herein as a ball cap treatment solution.
Preferably, kit 900 comprises ball cap washing basket 960, as shown. Preferably, ball cap washing basket 960 permits ball cap 500 to be laundered in a washing machine or dishwasher without being crushed. Preferably, ball cap 500 is laundered prior to steaming and/or stretching with ball cap steamer 101. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other kit components, such as a funnel, a cover, a surge protector, a ball cap, an adapter to change the shape of the crown-contour, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of washing (step 1090) such ball cap 500 prior to placing (step 1040) such ball cap 500 on such ball cap steamer 101, as shown.
Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of applying (step 2000) at least one cleaning solution 930 to such ball cap 500, either prior to steaming or during steaming, as shown. Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of applying (step 2010) at least one stain remover from stain remover solution 940 to such ball cap 500, as shown. Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of applying (step 2020) at least one stiffener solution 950 to such ball cap 500, as shown.
Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of restricting (step 2030) said step of steaming (step 1050) such ball cap 500 to steaming crown 505 of ball cap 500, as shown. Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of restricting (step 2040) said step of steaming (step 1050) such ball cap 500 to steaming areas of such ball cap 500 that do not comprise embroidery, as shown. Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of restricting (step 2050) said step of steaming (step 1050) such ball cap 500 to steaming areas of such ball cap 500 that do not comprise decorative printing, as shown.
Preferably, crown-contourer 110 comprises crown-contourer 1160, as shown. Preferably, crown-contourer 1160 comprises inside shell 1162 and outside shell 1164, as shown. Preferably, inside shell 1162 and outside shell 1164 fit together leaving airspace 1166 in between. Preferably, steam is directed into airspace 1166 so that the area underneath and inside crown-contourer 1160 remains dry. Preferably, air ports 1140 go through inside shell 1162 and outside shell 1164, as shown. Preferably, air blower 1130 is activated by the user as needed.
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 1100 comprises steam generator 105A, as shown. Preferably, steam generator 105A comprises water tank 660A, electrical heating element 650A (preferably from at least one heat resistant material, more preferably a metallic composition, most preferably aluminum), and heating element cover 651A, as shown. Preferably, steam is activated by steam actuator 652A, preferably a user-accessible control preferably interacting with water tank 660A to deposit water onto heating element cover 651A. Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 1100 comprises secondary system structures 1199, such as a ratchet release arm, screen cap for hot air blower, support chassis, support housings, etc., as shown.
The above arrangement at least embodying herein at least one ball cap blocker streamer stretcher dryer.
Preferably, crown-contourer 110 comprises crown-contourer 1260, as shown. Preferably, crown-contourer 1260 comprises inside shell 1262 and outside shell 1264, as shown. Preferably, inside shell 1262 and outside shell 1264 fit together leaving airspace 1266 in between, as shown. Preferably, steam is directed into airspace 1266 and out through steam apertures 125 in outside shell 1264 so that the area underneath and inside crown-contourer 1260 remains dry. Preferably, air goes through air ports 1140 in inside shell 1162 and out steam-apertures 125 on outside shell 1264. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as other hot-air blowers, other crown-contour shapes and configurations, other air passage arrangements, other steam passage arrangements, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprise brim region steam guide 1299 to assist in directing steam (and hot air from hot air blower) to the brim of a ball cap. Steam (and/or hot air) preferably flow through channel 1298 in inside shell 1262. Preferably, brim region steam guide 1299 comprises passages 1297 for steam and hot air, as shown. Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprises a steam generator 105B (which works in a manner similar to steam generator 105 and steam generator 105B) having water tank 660B and user-controllable steam actuator 1295, as shown.
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 1200 comprises stretcher 140. Stretcher 140 is not shown in
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this invention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes, and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in connection with the above specification. Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the below claims.
The present application is related to and claims priority from prior provisional application Ser. No. 60/822,110, filed Aug. 11, 2006, entitled “BALL CAP STRETCHING AND BLOCKING SYSTEMS”, and is related to and claims priority from prior provisional application 60/925,311, filed Apr. 18, 2007, entitled “BALL CAP STRETCHING AND BLOCKING SYSTEMS”, the contents of which are incorporated herein by this reference and are not admitted to be prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention in this cross-reference section.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20080035683 A1 | Feb 2008 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60822110 | Aug 2006 | US | |
| 60925311 | Apr 2007 | US |
