Clip-In Strap for Hair Extensions

Abstract

Disclosed are several embodiments of hair extension strands, which may include clips, stoppers, nano beads, or other attachment mechanisms to a clip-in strap for securely attaching the hair extensions to a wearer's hair or hair piece. Different embodiments are described showing different installation methods. Other disclosed embodiments include a string for semi-permanent installation of hair extensions using a string carrying a plurality of hair extension strands attached to a wearer's hair or hair piece via nano beads or rings.

Description

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND

Hair extensions are artificial or natural hair strands that are used to add length, volume, texture, or color to one's natural hair. Hair extensions have been used for centuries in various forms across different cultures, but modern hair extensions have evolved significantly in terms of technology, materials, and application methods.

Over time, various methods of applying hair extensions have emerged, offering individuals more options based on their preferences, lifestyles, and/or budgets. Hair extensions continue to be a popular choice for those looking to transform their hair quickly and easily, offering versatility and the ability to achieve various hairstyles without commitment. Techniques and materials continue to evolve, providing more natural-looking and long-lasting results for users.

The present invention aims to replace the messy work associated with traditional hair extensions, offering a more user-friendly and efficient alternative. Overall, this new approach offers a versatile and user-friendly method for creating customizable hair designs, providing a convenient and creative alternative to traditional hair extension methods.

SUMMARY

The disclosed and claimed hair extension strap system and methods of installation are described herein.

Some embodiments of the hair extension strap may comprise a length of material, wherein the length of material has one or more through holes, for receiving one or more hair extension strands, formed on and through a front surface and through and exiting a rear surface; one or more combs fixedly attached to said length of material, wherein said combs have a plurality of teeth, for attaching to a wearer's hair or a hair piece. Other embodiments may include one or more hair extension strands, wherein the strand is comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof.

Other embodiments may include one or more hair extension strands further comprising a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is terminated by a loop of material, wherein the loop of material is affixed to the proximal end by a crimp, whipping, or adhesive. Other embodiments may include one or more hair extension strands further comprising a clasp joined to the loop of material. In some embodiments the clasp is joined to the one or more through holes, for receiving one or more hair extension strands, via operating the clasp. Other embodiments may include one or more hair extension strands further comprising a stopper joined to the loop of material. Other embodiments may include a stopper further comprising a through hole formed through the stopper for receiving the loop of material. In other embodiments the stopper is joined to the one or more through holes, for receiving one or more hair extension strands, via insertion of the stopper into the one or more through holes.

In other embodiments, the hair extension thread is threaded through a first through hole and threaded through a second through hole of the hair extension strap. In some embodiments, the hair extension thread is formed as a single grouping of thread comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof.

In other embodiments, the hair extension thread is formed from two groupings of strands comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof, wherein each grouping of thread comprises a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is terminated by a loop of material, wherein the loop of material is affixed to the proximal end by a crimp, whipping, or adhesive, wherein the two groupings of strands are joined by knotting the two loops of material together to form a unitary two-piece hair extension thread.

In still other embodiments, the hair extension thread is formed from two groupings of thread comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof, wherein each grouping of thread comprises a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is terminated by a length of material, wherein the length of material is affixed to the proximal end of both groupings of thread by a crimp, whipping, or adhesive, wherein the two groupings of thread are joined by the length of material together to form a unitary two-piece hair extension thread.

Some embodiments the hair extension strap comprises a length of string, wherein a plurality of hair extension strands are distributed across the length of string, wherein the hair extension strands are attached to said string by nano beads. In some embodiments, the hair extension strap may include a length of string attached to a wearer's hair or hair piece by weaving the wearer's hair or hair piece through nano beads attached to said length of string.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a side view of an embodiment of a clip-in hair extension for use with the disclosed strap device.

FIG. 2 depicts a close-up view of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 depicts a side view of an alternative embodiment of a clip-in hair extension for use with the disclosed strap device.

FIG. 4 depicts a close-up view of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 depicts a front view of an embodiment of a clip-in strap for hair extensions.

FIG. 6 depicts a reverse view of the embodiment of a clip-in strap for hair extensions as shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 depicts a front view of an embodiment of a clip-in strap for hair extensions using the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1, 2, 5 and 6.

FIG. 8 depicts a front view of an embodiment of a clip-in strap for hair extensions using the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3, 4, 5 and 6.

FIG. 9 depicts a close-up view of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 depicts a close-up view of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 depicts an isometric top-down view of a manikin showing placement and orientation of an embodiment of the clip-in strap for hair extensions as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 12 depicts an isometric top-down view of a manikin showing an alternative placement and orientation of an embodiment of the clip-in strap for hair extensions, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, and alternative threading method for hair extensions.

FIG. 13 depicts an embodiment of joining two hair extension strands.

FIG. 14 depicts an alternative embodiment of joining two hair extension strands.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more illustrative embodiments incorporating the invention disclosed herein are presented below. The inventor has created a revolutionary and novel clip-in hair extension device and method of application. The core of the present invention is the stretchy strap with holes, designed to accommodate individual hair pieces, string, tinsel, yarn, or beads. Each strand of hair, string, tinsel, or yarn has a stopper piece to prevent the strand from extracting itself or falling through the installation through hole formed on the strap after the strand is installed. Additionally, each strand can include a clasp or other fastening mechanism to attach additional strands to lengthen, provide additional volume or colors thereby providing further flexibility and customizability options for the wearer and stylist.

The present invention incorporates clips and support features. The stretchy strap of the present invention has clips on each end and in the middle for comfort and support. This ensures that the hair extensions are securely and comfortably attached to the user's hair.

The present invention includes a yarn loop at the top of the hair tinsel, yarn, and beads which, along with the use of glue to attach the rubber stopper and clasp permanently, further enhances the functionality and ease of use of the hair for the wearer or stylist. The yarn loop at the top of the hair tinsel, yarn, and beads, secured with glue, serves as a key attachment point for the stopper and clasp, ensuring the secure and permanent integration of these components with the hair pieces.

In the following description, certain details are set forth such as specific quantities, sizes, etc. to provide a thorough understanding of the present embodiments disclosed herein. However, it will be evident to those of ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without such specific details. In many cases, details concerning such considerations and the like have been omitted inasmuch as such details are not necessary to obtain a complete understanding of the present disclosure and are within the skills of persons of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

The present invention's stretchy strap features built-in holes specifically designed to allow the hair tinsel, yarn, and/or beads to be pulled through using the provided tool. This design element streamlines the process of attaching the extensions to the strap. The present invention's tool for pulling through enables users to easily pull the individual hair tinsel, yarn, and/or beads through the built-in holes in the stretchy strap.

To use the present invention the user picks the hair colors, tinsel, yarn, and or beads they want to use. Once they have made their selections, they can use the 10 specialized tool to pull the chosen items through the holes in the strap. The medical-grade rubber stoppers on the strands ensure the strands of material stay in place once pulled through, the beads are attached to the strands using clasps to prevent them from damaging the holes of the present invention.

The stretchy strap of the present invention has clips on each end and in the middle to provide support and allow for easy attachment to the base of the head, gradually working upward. The strap comes in 5 different sizes to accommodate the shape of the user's head. This size variety allows users to apply the straps of the invention at the base of the head and gradually work their way up for their desired look. This provides adaptability for different hair styles and preferences.

This innovative method offers a lightweight and comfortable alternative to traditional clip-in extensions, allowing customers to mix and match different hair creations and easily change their look. The ability to add tinsel, yarn, and beads provides endless possibilities for unique and customizable styles.

The present invention's stretchy strap has the ability to hide within the hair of a user making it a discreet and comfortable option for users. The strap of the present invention can be reused for different looks, offering a convertible and cost-effective solution for users looking to switch up their hairstyle.

The present invention includes a special hanger for the strap portion of the invention allowing users to work on their hair creations more easily. The strap is designed to allow for the easy removal and replacement of colors and designs by a user, providing continuous options for creativity in use of the invention. This capability sets it apart from traditional clip-in extensions, many of which can be heavy and bulky.

The present invention is designed to allow a user to achieve a similar look to professionally-installed hair extensions without the discomfort and potential damage associated with traditional methods.

The present invention combines the ease of application and removal of the clip on straps with the ability to switch out colors and designs to offer a versatile alternative to other hair extension options. The present invention is also designed to allow for the integration of a Garvey tag into individual strands of hair extensions. Through this approach each individual strand of hair is integrated with a discreet Garvey tag. The process involves carefully looping a strand of hair, along with its attached Garvey tag, through a hole on the stretchy strap of the present invention specifically designed for attachment via clip-ins to the natural hair.

This method allows for secure and inconspicuous integration of the Garvey-tagged hair extensions while ensuring easy attachment and removal for the wearer.

The incorporation of Garvey tags into each hair strand provides a practical solution of the extensions, while the design of the attachment band with clip-ins ensures a comfortable and secure fit for the wearer. Through this method the tool portion of the present invention is no longer required, meaning a user will have the option to do attachments by hand, or with a tool, offering options for both suppliers and users alike.

Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Referring to the drawings in general, it will be understood that the illustrations are for the purpose of describing embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to be limiting thereto. Drawings are not necessarily to scale, and arrangements of specific units in the drawings can vary.

While most of the terms used herein will be recognizable to those of ordinary skill in the art, it should be understood, however, that when not explicitly defined, terms should be interpreted as adopting a meaning presently accepted by those of ordinary skill in the art. In cases where the construction of a term would render it meaningless, or essentially meaningless, the definition should be taken from Webster's Dictionary 2024. Definitions and/or interpretations should not be incorporated from other patent applications, patents, or publications, related or not, unless specifically stated in this specification, or if the incorporation is necessary for maintaining validity.

While preferred embodiments have been shown, and described, modifications thereof can be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or teaching herein. The embodiments described herein are exemplary only and are not limiting. Many variations and modifications of the system and apparatus are possible and will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully appreciated. For example, the relative dimensions of various parts, the materials from which the various parts are made, and other parameters can be varied.

In FIGS. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of a strand 100, wherein the strand comprises a length of material comprising natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, and/or beads, or a combination thereof. The strand comprises a distal end 101 and a proximal end 102. The proximal end 102 is terminated by a loop 104 of material, such as thread or yarn, joined to the proximal end by a crimp 103, whipping, glue, and/or other joining method known in the art. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the loop 104 is further joined or operatively connected to a clasp 106, the clasp shown is a spring ring clasp with an attachment loop 107. The clasp 106 includes one or more intermediary rings 105. The use of an intermediary ring 105 also allows for the stylist or wearer to attach multiple strands 100 to a single clasp 106 to provide additional volume, colors, or styles.

In FIGS. 3 and 4, an embodiment of a strand 200 is shown, wherein the strand comprises a length of material comprising natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, and/or beads, or a combination thereof. The strand comprises a distal end 201 and a proximal end 202. The proximal end 202 is terminated by a loop 204 of material, such as thread or yarn, joined to the proximal end by a crimp 203, whipping, glue, and/or other joining method known in the art. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the loop 204 is further joined or operatively connected to a stopper 205, the stopper shown is a rubber pellet with a through hole 206 formed through the body of the stopper wherein the loop 204 is threaded through before joining the proximal end 202 of the strand 200. It should be appreciated that the distal end of the hair extension strand may be attached to the stopper via other methods including glue, crimp, whipping, adhesive, or other methods known in the art for joining hair extension strands to objects. It should be appreciated that a string of material may be threaded through the through hole to form a string with a plurality of hair extension strands with stoppers. It should be appreciated that knotting or glueing the stoppers in place along the length of the string can achieve different placement and distribution of the hair extensions to create different styles and volume effects for the wearer.

In FIGS. 5 and 6, an embodiment of the strap 300 is shown from a front view (FIG. 5) and a reverse view (FIG. 6). The strap 300 may be comprised of a rubber or stretchable material and include one or more through holes 301 formed on front surface 306 to the rear surface 307 and across the length 305 of the strap 300. The through holes 301 are for the attachment of various clasps 106 or stoppers 206. Other embodiments of the strap 300 allow for a single strand, e.g. 100 or 200, to be threaded through one through hole 301 and out another through hole 301 without the use of a clasp 106 or stopper 206, this embodiment is further shown and discussed with respect to FIG. 12 below. The strap 300 further includes one or more combs 302 adjoined to a rear surface 307. The combs 302 include one or more teeth 310 for attachment to a wearer's natural hair or to a hair piece. The combs may be glued, fixed, or otherwise joined to the strap. The one or more teeth 310 allow for a secure gripping to the wearer's natural hair or to a hair piece to support the weight of one or more strands, e.g. 100 or 200. The strap 300 may also include a hair or hair-like material 304, which may match the color of the wearer's natural hair or hair piece to blend the strap and extensions in with the wearer's natural hair or hair piece.

FIGS. 7 and 9 (detail view) show an embodiment of the strap 300 with an embodiment of the strands 100 affixed and attached to the strap. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the strand 100 includes a distal end 101 and proximal end 102. The proximal end 102 is terminated by a loop 104 of material, such as thread or yarn, joined to the proximal end by a crimp 103, whipping, glue, and/or other joining method known in the art. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the loop 104 is further joined or operatively connected to a clasp 106, the clasp shown is a spring ring clasp with an attachment loop 107. The clasp 106 includes one or more intermediary rings 105. The use of an intermediary ring 105 also allows for the stylist or wearer to attach multiple strands 100 to a single clasp 106 to provide additional volume, colors, or styles. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the strap 300 may be comprised of a rubber or stretchable material and include one or more through holes 301 formed on front surface 306 to the rear surface 307 (see FIGS. 5 and 6) and across the length 305 of the strap 300. The through holes 301 are for the attachment of various clasps 106. The strap 300 further includes one or more combs 302 adjoined to a rear surface 307 (see FIG. 6).

FIGS. 8 and 10 (detail view) show an embodiment of the strap 300 with an embodiment of the strands 200 affixed and attached to the strap. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the strand 200 includes a distal end 201 and proximal end 202. The proximal end 202 is terminated by a loop 204 of material, such as thread or yarn, joined to the proximal end by a crimp 203, whipping, glue, and/or other joining method known in the art. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the loop 204 is further joined or operatively connected to a stopper 205 having a through hole 206. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the strap 300 may be comprised of a rubber or stretchable material and include one or more through holes 301 formed on front surface 306 to the rear surface 307 (see FIGS. 5 and 6) and across the length 305 of the strap 300. The through holes 301 are for the attachment of various stoppers 205. The strap 300 further includes one or more combs 302 adjoined to a rear surface 307 (see FIG. 6).

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of one or more straps 300 as may be installed to a wearer's hair or head 400. It should be appreciated that the straps 300 may be installed or positioned in or on the wearer's hair, hair piece, or head in a number of different arrangements or orientations to create different styles or add hair volume, color, or other customization where desired. The manikin head 400 is shown with multiple straps 300, where the straps include combs 302 through holes 301 to create attachment points for strands (as shown in FIGS. 7-10).

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of one or more straps 300 as may be installed to a wearer's hair or head 500. It should be appreciated that the straps 300 may be installed or positioned in or on the wearer's hair, hair piece, or head in a number of different arrangements or orientations to create different styles or add hair volume, color, or other customization where desired. The manikin head 500 is shown with multiple straps 300, where the straps include combs 302 and through holes 301 to create attachment points for strands (as shown in FIGS. 7-10). Further depicted is an embodiment of the strap 300 including a strand 600 which does not include a clasp or stopper, as described in earlier embodiments. The strap 300 can allow for a single strand, e.g. 100 or 200, which may include multiple individual fibers or hairs as a collection, to be threaded through one through hole 301 and out another through hole 301 without the use of a clasp 106 or stopper 206. The threading of a single strand can be accomplished by inserting a wire loop tool through one through hole 301, pulling one end of the strand 600 through the wire loop formed by the wire loop tool, then pulling the wire loop and strand through the through hole 301. The process can then be repeated to thread the strand 600 through a second through hole 301. It should be appreciated that this process can be repeated multiple times to achieve different styles. One benefit of using the disclosed strap 300 system is the reusability of the straps to easily and readily remove or install new strands achieving different styles or colors for the wearer. The combs 302 additionally provide the benefit of allowing the wearer to readily remove their hair extensions without having to be attended to by a stylist, while at the same time providing a secure affixing to the wearer's hair to prevent shifting or drooping of the hair extensions.

FIG. 13 includes an alternative embodiment of a strand 700, wherein two individual strands are joined by loops 704 through a square knot or other knot for joining the thread loops. The strand comprises a proximal end 702 and crimp 703 for joining the loop 704 to proximal end 702. This embodiment allows for creation of individual strands into a unitary strand or double ended strand for installation in the manner described in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 includes an alternative embodiment of a strand 800, wherein two individual strands 800 are joined by a single thread 804. The strand 800 comprises a proximal end 802 and crimp 803 for joining the thread 804 to a second proximal end of another strand creating a unitary strand or double ended strand for installation in the manner described in FIG. 12.

Further alternative embodiments include the use of a length of string, or other material, wherein a plurality of hair extension strands are distributed across the length of the string. The string may include a braided set of strings wherein the disclosed hair extension strands and/or nano tipped hair extensions may be clipped, inserted, braided, twisted, or attached via nano beads, nano-rings, microlinks, nanolinks to the string. The string may then be woven, braided, or attached to the wearer's hair or hair piece for semi-permanent placement of the hair extension strands. In some embodiments, the hair extension strands and the string may both be attached to the wearer's hair or hair piece. In other embodiments, only the string carrying the plurality of hair extensions is attached to the wearer's hair or hair piece.

It should be appreciated that the disclosure and teachings of the several embodiments described herein may be used interchangeably to achieve different embodiments not explicitly depicted. Accordingly, it is intended that the following claims be interpreted to embrace all such variations and modifications.

Claims

1. A hair extension strap comprising: a length of material, wherein the length of material has one or more through holes, for receiving one or more hair extension strands, formed on and through a front surface and through and exiting a rear surface;one or more combs fixedly attached to said length of material, wherein said combs have a plurality of teeth, for attaching to a wearer's hair or a hair piece.

2. The hair extension strap of claim 1 further comprising: one or more hair extension strands, wherein the strand is comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof.

3. The hair extension strap of claim 2, wherein the one or more hair extension strands further comprises a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is terminated by a loop of material, wherein the loop of material is affixed to the proximal end by a crimp, whipping, or adhesive.

4. The hair extension strap of claim 3, wherein the one or more hair extension strands further comprises a clasp joined to the loop of material.

5. The hair extension strap of claim 3, wherein the one or more hair extension strands further comprises a stopper joined to the loop of material.

6. The hair extension strap of claim 5, wherein the stopper further comprises a through hole formed through the stopper for receiving the loop of material.

7. The hair extension strap of claim 4, wherein the clasp is joined to the one or more through holes, for receiving one or more hair extension strands, via operating the clasp.

8. The hair extension strap of claim 5, wherein the stopper is joined to the one or more through holes, for receiving one or more hair extension strands, via insertion of the stopper into the one or more through holes.

9. The hair extension strap of claim 6, wherein the stopper is joined to the one or more through holes, for receiving one or more hair extension strands, via insertion of the stopper into the one or more through holes.

10. The hair extension strap of claim 1, further comprising a hair extension thread is threaded through a first through hole and threaded through a second through hole.

11. The hair extension strap of claim 10, wherein the hair extension thread is formed as a single grouping of thread comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof.

12. The hair extension strap of claim 10, wherein the hair extension thread is formed from two groupings of strands comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof, wherein each grouping of thread comprises a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is terminated by a loop of material, wherein the loop of material is affixed to the proximal end by a crimp, whipping, or adhesive, wherein the two groupings of strands are joined by knotting the two loops of material together to form a unitary two-piece hair extension thread.

13. The hair extension strap of claim 10, wherein the hair extension thread is formed from two groupings of thread comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof, wherein each grouping of thread comprises a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is terminated by a length of material, wherein the length of material is affixed to the proximal end of both groupings of thread by a crimp, whipping, or adhesive, wherein the two groupings of thread are joined by the length of material together to form a unitary two-piece hair extension thread.

14. A hair extension strap comprising: a length of string, wherein a plurality of hair extension strands are distributed across the length of string, wherein the hair extension strands are attached to said string by nano beads.

15. The hair extension strap of claim 14, wherein the length of string is attached to a wearer's hair or hair piece by weaving the wearer's hair or hair piece through nano beads attached to said length of string.

16. The hair extension strap of claim 14, wherein the plurality of hair extension strands are each formed as a single grouping of thread comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof.

17. The hair extension strap of claim 16, wherein the plurality of hair extension strands are formed from two groupings of strands comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof, wherein each grouping of thread comprises a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is terminated by a loop of material, wherein the loop of material is affixed to the proximal end by a crimp, whipping, or adhesive, wherein the two groupings of strands are joined by knotting the two loops of material together to form a unitary two-piece hair extension thread.

18. A hair extension strap comprising: a length of string, wherein a plurality of hair extension strands are distributed across the length of string, wherein the hair extension strands are attached to said string by knotting.

19. The hair extension strap of claim 18, wherein the plurality of hair extension strands are each formed as a single grouping of thread comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof.

20. The hair extension strap of claim 19, wherein the plurality of hair extension strands are formed from two groupings of strands comprised of natural hair, synthetic hair, fur, synthetic fur, yarn, thread, beads, or combinations thereof, wherein each grouping of thread comprises a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is terminated by a loop of material, wherein the loop of material is affixed to the proximal end by a crimp, whipping, or adhesive, wherein the two groupings of strands are joined by knotting the two loops of material together to form a unitary two-piece hair extension thread.