Fastening device

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a sound-emitting fastening device. More specifically, the present invention teaches and discloses a shower curtain connector that has a sound-emitting member attached thereto. The fastening device can be sized and colored as desired and can be made from any material that is sturdy and affords a degree of rigidity. Thus, it can be made from any plastic, resin, metal, synthetic or natural material, and/or part plastic and part metal. Therefore, it can withstand repeated use by a user using it on a daily basis without breaking or cracking and at the same time it is sturdy enough that it is capable of holding up a sheet material such as shower curtain.

[0002] The invention further relates to a sound-emitting fastening device wherein the sound-emitting member is motion-activated such that when the sheet material or shower curtain is moved, the sound-emitting member emits a sound, such as a tone or music. The sound-emitting member is housed in a decorative housing in a myriad of shapes and sizes.

[0003] The invention further relates to sound-emitting fastening devices wherein the sound emitting member comprises any such member that emits sound in response to pressure activation. Such a sound emitting member comprises an electronic sound emitting member that has a pre-programmed noise, word, phrase, music, or other desired audio signal or sound. Optionally or alternatively, the invention comprises to such fastening devices wherein the sound emitting member can records and plays back a noise, word, phrase, music, or other desired audio signal or sound.

[0004] Further optionally or alternatively, the invention relates to such fastening devices wherein the sound emitting member can includes a VOX—a voice activated (or sound activated) switch—for instance, a switch that activates the play and/or recordation of the noise, word, phrase, music, or other desired audio signal or sound. Also optionally or alternatively, the sound emitting member includes another or a different switch or other switches, such as a light sensitive switch; for instance, a switch that allows the sound emitting member to be activated when there is light and not activated when there is no light (so, for example, if the fastening device is in a relatively dark setting, such as a bathroom at night, the sound-emitting member will not emit a sound when used, but it will do so when there is light, such as during the day).

[0005] And, even further still, the invention relates to such fastening devices wherein the sound emitting member includes or is a transmitter; for instance, instead of or in addition to emitting an audio signal, the device emits a signal in response to pressure activation; e.g., the signal comprises an IR or other suitable signal. A remote receiver is also provided that receives the signal and performs a function, such as emitting a noise, word, phrase, music or other desired audio signal or sound. The remote receiver receives signals and perform a particular function, e.g., emit a particular noise, word, phrase, music or other desired audio signal or sound, for each particular signal. (Thus, “sound emitting member” includes any or all of the foregoing; and, “sound” emitted by the “sound emitting member” includes audio sound and/or the transmission of a signal that is other than audio, e.g., somewhere in the electromagnetic spectrum such as an IR, infra-red or RF radio frequency signal.)

[0006] The sound emitting member preferably generate a sound that is consistent with the sound that would be made by the shape depicted on the sound emitting member housing. Thus, when the sound emitting member is activated, the fastening device entertains the young and old when in the shower or bathroom. For example, if the sound emitting member is shaped like a cow, it emits a “moo” sound when the sound emitting member is activated. Thus, the invention relates to fastening devices that are also entertaining.

[0007] Further, the ability of the sound emitting member to emit a sound when activated assists those who are blind or visually impaired. For instance, by emitting a sound when the sound emitting member is activated, a blind or visually impaired person receives sound or audio confirmation that the person is in the bathroom, is near the bathtub, or is near the location where the sound-emitting member is located.

[0008] Alternatively and/or additionally, the sound-emitting device plays music; for example, a “cow” could play “Hey Diddle Diddle”, or be otherwise shaped and emit music (e.g., be shaped like a baseball bat and play “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” or be shaped otherwise, e.g., like a musical instrument, and play a portion of a song, melody or tune).

[0009] Even further still, the invention relates to such a fastening device wherein there is a VOX, and in response to a sound such as that of the flow of water in a sink or the flush of a toilet, the sound emitting member emits a sound, such as a phrase, e.g., “remember to wash hands” or “remember to brush teeth.” When activated thereafter, it emits a different sound such as a phrase, e.g., “good job” or “pick up the towel.”

[0010] Accordingly, the invention relates to fastening devices that are educational tools, e.g., promote good sanitary or other behavior and/or teach a word and/or assist those who are blind or visually impaired and/or that are entertaining.

[0011] Various documents may be mentioned in this text; and, each herein mentioned document and each document cited or referenced in each herein mentioned document, is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Shower curtain rings have been in existence for a long time and they come in all shapes and sizes and are made from all different kinds of material. Ultimately, all of these shower curtain rings serve the same purpose of causing the shower curtain to remain in an upright and vertical position while in use, thus keeping water confined to the interior of the bathtub and providing a vertical barrier between a bathtub and the rest of the bathroom environment. Over the years, various shower curtain rings having different shapes and made from different materials have been introduced into the market, but no matter what the new design is, the “newly-developed” shower curtain rings always require a user to assemble the shower curtain by either standing within the bathtub or on the edge of the bathtub, hovering over the edge of the bathtub to first line up the apertures in the shower curtain, then threading the shower curtain rings through the apertures, and then securing the shower curtain rings holding the shower curtain to the shower curtain rod. In short, whenever a user sets up a shower curtain over a bathtub using conventional shower curtain rings, he or she inevitably, must complete hanging the shower curtain by attaching the assembly of the shower curtain rings first to the shower curtain then to the rod. Contrary to the known conventional shower curtain rings, the fastening device of the present invention can be utilized anywhere without requiring the user to stand over the bathtub when installing a shower curtain. Once the fastening devices are secured to the shower curtain, a user can assemble the shower curtain by hanging each of the fastening devices on a rod.

[0013] With respect to shower curtain rings, reference is made to the following:

[0014] Cheng, U.S. Pat. No. 6,189,597 B1 issued Feb. 20, 2001, relates to a hanger ring assembly for a curtain. More specifically, it relates to a curtain with a hanger ring assembly for mounting onto a supporting rod which includes a sheet material and a plurality of hanger units. The sheet material has a plurality of hanger openings formed along a top edge, and a plurality of edge gap each extending from the top edge to an upper portion of the respective hanger opening. Each of the opening portions defines a section of connecting tab adjacent to the respective edge gap. Each of the hanger units includes a hanger ring which has a ring slit separating two ends thereof and defines a section of ring tab adjacent to the ring slit. Each of the hanger rings is attached to one side of the respective opening portion and coaxially extended around the respective hanger opening with the ring slit of the respective hanger ring staggering with the edge gap of the respective opening portion. The connecting tabs of the opening portions of the sheet material are detachably overlapped with the ring tabs of the hanger rings respectively. Each of the hanger units further includes a connecting device for selectively connecting each of the ring tabs with the respective connecting tabs. Thus, the hanger ring assembly according to Cheng attached a curtain directly to a supporting rod without any connectors.

[0015] Klotz, U.S. Pat. No. 6,067,672 issued May 30, 2000, relates to a shower curtain closure assembly for semi-permanent securement of an edge of a curtain to a wall of a shower enclosure. The closure assembly includes a clamping structure which comprises a mounting bar for permanent securement to a wall of a shower enclosure. The mounting bar includes a wall attachment surface for attachment to a wall of a shower enclosure and a first clamping surface. The mounting bar further includes a plurality of first fastener receiving holes. Supported on the mounting bar is an adjustable clamp including a second clamping surface which is disposed adjacent to the first clamping surface. The adjustable clamp includes a plurality of second fastener receiving holes. The first fastener receiving holes of the mounting bar are aligned with the second fastener receiving holes of the adjustable clamp. A plurality of threaded fasteners are disposed such that a threaded fastener engages each of the aligned first and second holes for securing the adjustable clamp to the mounting bar. A first curtain edge is disposed between the first and second clamping surfaces. The fasteners may be selectively tightened from a first position where the adjustable clamp is loosely secured to the first clamping surface such that the first curtain edge may be easily disposed between the first and second clamping surfaces, to a second waterproof position where the fastener is under tension and applies a compressive clamping force on the first and second clamping surfaces as well as the intervening first curtain edge. The compressive clamping applied to the first curtain edge by the fastener in the second position exceeds the shear strength of the curtain such that a force which exceeds the shear strength of the curtain applied to the curtain first edge will result in the tearing of the curtain before the release of the edge of the curtain from the position between the first and second clamping surfaces.

[0016] Eberhardt, U.S. Pat. No. 5,894,642 issued Apr. 20, 1999, relates to a hook and loop hanger for a shower curtain and a liner. More specifically, it relates to a flexible elongated combination shower curtain and liner hanger device with reinforced apertures in an upper region for hanging the hanger element from a shower rod by hooks. The lower region of the hanger device has loop strips in both sides for fastening of the shower curtain and the shower liner to a horizontal rod by hook strips on their upper edges. The hanger device can be clear or colored to match the color of the shower curtain and shower liner.

[0017] Herrera, U.S. Pat. No. 5,787,954 issued Aug. 4, 1998, relates to a shower curtain ring whereby each ring includes a body member that encircles the shower curtain rod, the body member having a first end and a second end; a first end locking member which is attached to the first end of the body member and includes a male locking protrusion, where the male locking protrusion comprises a central body portion and a horizontal bar having an enlarged outer tip, the horizontal bar being attached to the central body portion; and a second end locking member which is attached to the second end of the body member and includes a female locking receptacle, the female locking receptacle being adapted to receive and hold the male locking protrusion. The upper edge of the shower curtain is held between the male locking protrusion and the female locking receptacle of each shower curtain ring, whereby the curtain is deformed and held between the male locking protrusion and the female locking receptacle without any part of the shower curtain ring passing through the shower curtain.

[0018] Steiner, U.S. Pat. No. 5,771,504 issued Jun. 3, 1998, relates to a shower curtain rib apparatus for use with a conventional bathtub shower curtain which prevents the curtain from being drawn into the shower enclosure when the shower is in use. The apparatus has a plurality of semi-rigid ribs which are vertically oriented and connected to the shower curtain rod. The lower end of the ribs are secured to the tub and the outer surface of the curtain is secured to the ribs, thus preventing the curtain from moving inward. By securing the ribs so that they bow outward, the shower enclosure can be enlarged.

[0019] Perez, U.S. Pat. No. 5,651,407 issued Jul. 29, 1997, relates to a shower curtain loop that is permanently attached to the shower curtain on one side, preferably by stitching. The other end of the loop fastens to the curtain with hook and loop fasteners, which facilitate the removal of the curtain and loops from a shower curtain rod. The loop is reinforced with a rigid, flexible member which runs along the length of the loop. This member, which is preferably made of plastic, provides rigidity to the loop so that the loop can easily traverse a curtain rod when the curtain is opened or closed.

[0020] Bindman, U.S. Pat. No. 5,367,742 issued Nov. 29, 1994, relates to a click-lock ring for use in hanging shower curtains designed in the form of a split ring wherein one end of the split ring contains a stepped anchoring recess formed from two cooperating lateral openings for receiving a locking head formed at the other end of the split ring. The ring is produced by injection molding a flexible plastic material in a cam-free mold.

[0021] Schechter et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,355,551 issued Oct. 18, 1994, relates to a scent-releasing shower curtain ring. More specifically, it relates to a curtain ring having a fragrance-releasing material mounted on its inner diameter. The material is selected so that the fragrance will only be released when the consumer opens or closes the curtain, that is, only when the material is rubbed against the curtain rod.

[0022] Angerman, U.S. Pat. No. 5,339,884 issued Aug. 23, 1994, relates to a shower curtain ring which has a flexible body adapted to encircle a curtain rod and close by frictionally interengaging end members. One of the end members includes an elongated part which is received through an opening along the top edge of the curtain. A flange on the end of the elongated part retains the curtain even when the end members are not engaged.

[0023] Bindman, U.S. Pat. No. 5,310,052 issued May 10, 1994, relates to a shower curtain ring package. More specifically, it relates to a unitary totally transparent package of shower curtain rings comprising a stack of ring-like articles, each of which articles has at least one predetermined discontinuity therein, said discontinuities being aligned one with the other in a manner whereby each of the articles in the stack is congruently aligned with the other; a cylindrical transparent PVC cap element disposed tightly over the uppermost ring-like article in intimate contact therewith; an elongated tubular transparent polyvinyl chloride plastic sleeve enveloping the stack of rings from top to bottom and being shrunken into intimate contract with the outer surfaces of each of said rings and said cap to provide a package having a corrugated appearance and providing visual access to the inner and outer portions of said entire stack of rings.

[0024] Irizarry, U.S. Pat. No. 4,955,422 issued Sep. 11, 1990, relates to a shower curtain operating mechanism for opening and closing a shower curtain without grabbing on the curtain material. A pull cord system is incorporated into a conventional shower curtain assembly so that the curtain can be opened or closed with minimum stress on the curtain material.

[0025] Each of these patents provides a method of attaching a shower curtain to a rod or securing the shower curtain to the bathtub or inner wall of the bathtub. However, none of these patents claims or discloses, teaches or suggests a fastening device comprising a sound-emitting member.

[0026] A patent relating to dispensers that emit sound is U.S. Pat. No. 6,315,163. This patent relates to a sound emitting and dispensing device comprising a pressure-activated dispenser. The pressure-activated device has a top end with means for a user to apply pressure and engage the dispenser and dispense therefrom and a bottom end. The device according to the present invention also has a pedestal including a bottom end for sitting on a surface and a top end having means for optionally and removably receiving the bottom end of the pressure-activated dispenser, and a pressure-activated sound emitting member positioned in the meals for optionally removably receiving the bottom end of the pressure-activated dispenser. The pressure-activated dispenser is optionally removably connected to the pedestal and the pressure-activated sound emitting device is positioned beneath and in direct contact with the dispenser such that when the pressure-activated dispenser is so connected to the pedestal and pressure is applied to the top end of the dispenser, the sound emitting device is activated. However, this patent neither claims, discloses, teaches or suggests a fastening device comprising a sound-emitting member.

[0027] Thus, it is believed that heretofore the present invention has not been taught or suggested.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Therefore in accordance with the invention, a novel fastening device is provided.

[0029] Further, in accordance with the invention, a sound-emitting coupling device is provided, comprising a sound-emitting member; and a coupling member comprising a first end connected to said sound-emitting member, and a second end adapted to slidably and removably couple to a substantially fixed object.

[0030] Additionally, in accordance with the invention, a sound-emitting coupling device is provided, comprising a sound-emitting member housed in a decorative housing; and a coupling member comprising a first end connected to said decorative housing, and a second end adapted to slidably and removably couple to a substantially fixed object, wherein said second end is further adapted to removably receive a shower curtain.

[0031] Further in accordance with the invention, a decorative sound emitting fastening device for hanging a sheet material onto a substantially fixed object is provided, comprising a motion-activated sound-emitting member housed in a decorative housing; and a coupling member comprising a first end connected to said decorative housing and comprising a element for removably supporting a shower curtain, and a second end substantially in the shape of a hook and adapted to slidably and removably couple to said substantially fixed object.

[0032] Additionally in accordance with the invention, a sound-emitting fastening device for connecting a shower curtain to a rod is provided, comprising a motion-activated sound-emitting member housed in a decorative housing; and a coupling member comprising a first end connected to said decorative housing and comprising an element for removably supporting said shower curtain, and a second end substantially in the shape of a hook and adapted to slidably and removably couple to said rod.

[0033] Further in accordance with the invention, a kit is provided comprising one or more sound-emitting devices for connecting a shower curtain to a rod, each sound emitting fastening device comprising: a motion activated sound emitting member housed in a decorative housing; an insulating element adapted to be removably inserted into said decorative housing to prevent activation of said sound emitting member; and a coupling member comprising a first end connected to said decorative housing, and an element positioned adjacent said first end for removably supporting said shower curtain and a second end formed substantially in the shape of a hook and adapted to slidably and removably couple to said rod.

[0034] In another embodiment, the sound emitting member is housed in a decorative housing that is sculpted to resemble an animal, such as a member in the fish family (e.g., goldfish, tropical fish), or a member in amphibian family (e.g., frog, toad, salamander), or a member in the reptile family (e.g., crocodile, alligator, turtle, tortoise), a member of the bird family (e.g., duck, goose, crow, rooster, chicken) or a member in the mammal family (e.g., cow, cat, dog, sheep, lamb, rabbit, hare). Advantageously, the sound-emitting member is housed in a decorative housing in a form selected from the group consisting of: a dog, a cat, a rooster, a duck, a dolphin, a cow, a tiger, a rabbit, a dragon, a snake, a horse, a sheep, a monkey, a pig, an insect (e.g., bee, fly, ladybug, ant, butterfly) and a seal; or, the sound-emitting member is housed in a decorative housing in the form of a plant or of an inanimate object, such as a tree, a mountain, and a flower, an electrical appliance, a locomotive or train, a car, an airplane, a jet, a space shuttle, a truck, a car (or generally, transportation means), a volcano, a building or structure (e.g., a house a building or structure such as the Eiffel Tower, etc.), a sport equipment (bat, ball, hockey stick, etc), furniture, or any and all other inanimate object, animate object, animal, etc. For instance, the sound-emitting member is housed in a decorative housing that can be shaped like a caricature of a famous person or character, such as a snow man or Santa Claus, and the sound emitting member can emit a quote or phrase from that person or character (e.g., a “Clint Eastwood” or “Dirty Harry” or “George Bush” fastening device that emits the phrase “Read My Lips” when activated, or a “Bugs Bunny” fastening device that emits the phrase “What's Up Doc?” when activated, or a Santa Claus fastening device that emits a sound like “Ho Ho Ho” and the like). And thus, the sound emitting member advantageously produces a sound that is consistent with the appearance of the sculptured fastening device.

[0035] In this text, the terms “comprising”, “comprise”, “comprises” and the other forms of “comprise” can have the meaning ascribed to these terms in U.S. Patent Law and can mean “including”, “include”, “includes” and other forms of “include”.

[0036] These and other objects and embodiments of the invention are provided in, or are obvious from, the following detailed description of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] In the following detailed description of the invention, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, incorporated herein by reference, wherein:

[0038]
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the fastening device constructed in accordance with the invention whereby the fastening device supports a sheet material at one end and slidably and removably attached to a substantially fixed object at a second end;

[0039]
FIG. 2 shows a side cross-sectional elevational view of the first embodiment of the fastening device;

[0040]
FIG. 3 shows a rear cross-sectional elevational view of the first embodiment of the fastening device;

[0041]
FIG. 4 shows a rear cut-away elevational view of the first embodiment of the fastening device;

[0042]
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a fastening device constructed in accordance with the invention whereby the fastening device supports a sheet material at one end and slidably and removably attached to a substantially fixed object at a second end;

[0043]
FIG. 6 shows a perspective of a third embodiment of a fastening device constructed in accordance with the invention whereby the fastening device supports a sheet material at one end and slidably and removably attached to a substantially fixed object at a second end;

[0044]
FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional plan view of a the third embodiment of the fastening device whereby the backside of the fastening device is affixed onto a wall and the second end of the fastening device slidably removably supports an object;

[0045]
FIG. 8 shows a rear elevational cutaway view of the third embodiment of the fastening device;

[0046]
FIG. 9 shows a rear elevational view of the third embodiment of the fastening device; and

[0047]
FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a fastening device constructed in accordance with the invention whereby the fastening device supports a sheet material at one end and slidably and removably attached to a substantially fixed object at a second end.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] Reference is made to all of the Figures herein as preferred embodiments. FIG. 1 shows a fastening device 100 having a sound emitting member 120 in a sculptured housing in the shape of a rooster and a fastening member 140. Sound emitting member 120 is attached to a first end 130 of fastening member 140. A second end 150 of fastening member 140 is slidably and removably coupled to a curtain rod 160. A shower curtain 170 defining an aperture 180 is supported by an element 190 of fastening member 140, wherein element 190 is positioned adjacent to sound-emitting member 120.

[0049] As is further shown in FIG. 2, sound emitting member 120 is attached to first end 130 of fastening member 140 while first end 130 of fastening member 140 is pictured as being permanently fixed to sound emitting member 120, it may be removably coupled thereto, such as by a pressure fit, threading engagement or the like. Second end 150 of fastening member 140 is slidably and removably coupled to curtain rod 160 and is preferably formed in a shape adapted to be coupled to curtain rod 160. Shower curtain 170 defining aperture 180 is supported by element 190 of fastening member 140 passing through aperture 180, wherein element 190 is positioned adjacent to sound-emitting member 120. Fastening device 100 also comprises a mercury switch (not shown) housed in sound emitting member 120. An element 110 prevents activation of sound emitting member 120. An insulating element 110 prevents activation of sound emitting member 120, preferably by preventing electrical contact of at least two portions of the sound emitting member.

[0050] Referring next to FIG. 3, a cut-away view of sound emitting member 120 of fastening device 100 is shown and comprises a printed circuit board 191. The power supply of sound emitting member 120 is made of at least one, and preferably a plurality of, batteries 192. An insulating element 110 prevents activation of sound emitting member 120, preferably by preventing electrical contact of at least two portions of the sound emitting member. Printed circuit board 191 is programmed with a myriad of sounds and/or music and/or spoken language. Printed circuit board 191 is typically configured with circuitry and components to produce the desired motion- or pressure-activated effect known to a skilled artisan. The power supply of the sound emitting member includes at least one battery and, preferably includes three to four batteries.

[0051]
FIG. 4 shows another cut-away view of sound emitting member 120 of fastening device 100. A sound amplifier 193 is housed in sound emitting member 120 and covered by a back plate 194. An insulating element 110 prevents activation of sound emitting member 120, preferably by preventing electrical contact of at least two portions of the sound emitting member. A printed circuit board (not shown) is programmed with a myriad of sounds and/or music and/or spoken language. The printed circuit board is typically configured with circuitry and components to produce the desired motion- or pressure-activated effect known to a skilled artisan. The power supply of the sound emitting member includes at least one battery and, preferably includes three to four batteries.

[0052] Referring next to FIG. 5, a fastening device 200 constructed in accordance with a second embodiment is shown and includes a sound emitting member 220 positioned in a sculptured housing in the shape of a cat and a fastening member 240. Sound emitting member 220 is attached to a first end 230 of fastening member 240. Second end 250 of fastening member 240 is slidably and removably coupled to a curtain rod 260. A shower curtain 270 defining an aperture 280 is supported by an element 290 of fastening member 240, wherein element 290 is positioned adjacent to sound-emitting member 220. An insulating element 210 prevents activation of sound emitting member 120, preferably by preventing electrical contact of at least two portions of the sound emitting member.

[0053]
FIG. 6 shows a fastening device 300 constructed in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention and having a sound emitting member 320 in a sculptured housing in the shape of a snow man and a fastening member 340. Sound emitting member 320 is attached to a first end 330 of fastening member 340. A second end 350 of fastening member 340 is slidably and removably coupled to an item 360. Sound emitting member 320 is activated by actuation of a pressure activation rod 370.

[0054]
FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of fastening device 300. Fastening device 300 is affixed onto wall a 380 by one or more fixing members 390. Sound emitting member 320 is attached to first end 330 of fastening member 340. Second end 350 of fastening member 340 is slidably and removably coupled to item 360. Sound emitting member 320 is activated by actuation of a pressure activation rod 370.

[0055]
FIG. 8 is a cut-away view of fastening device 300 showing a power supply 391. Power supply 391 includes four batteries 392.

[0056]
FIG. 9 shows a rear view of fastening device 300 having one or more fixing members 390.

[0057]
FIG. 10 shows a fastening device 400 constructed in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention, and having a sound emitting member 420 in a sculptured housing in the shape of a clown and a fastening member 440. Sound emitting member 420 is attached to a first end 430 of fastening member 440. A second end 450 of fastening member 440 is slidably and removably coupled to an item 460. Sound emitting member 420 is activated by actuation of a pressure activation rod 470.

[0058] It is contemplated that in the context of this invention, the terms “fastening” and “coupling” are interchangeable.

[0059] The fastening device can be sized and colored as desired and can be made from any material that is sturdy and afford a degree of rigidity. Thus, it can be made from any plastic, resin, metal, synthetic or natural material, and/or part plastic and part metal. Therefore, it can withstand repeated use by a user using it on a daily basis without breaking or cracking and at the same time it is sturdy enough that it is capable of holding up a sheet material such as shower curtain.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the sound-emitting fastening device comprises a coupling member comprising a first end connected to a sound-emitting member, and a second end adapted to slidably and removably couple to an object. The coupling member may be made of any material known in the art that affords strength and rigidity to the fastening device. Preferably, the coupling member is substantially S-shaped, most preferably in the shape of a curved hook. Of course, the coupling member may be shaped in any appropriate shape for being supported by and engaging a substantially stationary object.

[0061] The coupling member is adapted to couple, engage, fasten support or hold any object capable of being hung. Such objects include, without limitation, sheets, drapery, shower curtains, oven mitts, towels, bathrobes, shirts, pants, and the like. In one embodiment, the sound-emitting fastening device has attached thereto a fixing member, such as, for example, double-sided tape, that allows for the sound-emitting fastening device to be affixed onto, without limitation, kitchen walls, bathroom walls, hampers, doors refrigerators, cabinets, appliances, computer terminals and the like.

[0062] In a further preferred embodiment, the sound-emitting fastening device comprises an element adjacent to the sound-emitting member for supporting a shower curtain by the device. Preferably, the element is formed integral with and made of the same material as the coupling member.

[0063] The sound-emitting member may be motion-activated such that when the shower curtain or other object hanging therefrom is moved, the sound-emitting member emits a sound, such as a tone or music. In a preferred embodiment, the sound-emitting member is activated by a switch, most preferably by a mercury switch. The switch according to the present invention can assume a very simple structure. For example, a pair of contact elements are disposed while the distance there between is varied, and a ball member, preferably made of mercury, rolls along a path defined between the contact elements upon tilting of a switch body, thereby closing and opening connection between the contact elements. Such switches are commonly known in the art.

[0064] The sound emitting member typically has a printed circuit board programmed with a myriad of sounds and/or music and/or spoken language. The printed circuit board is typically configured with circuitry and components to produce the desired motion- or pressure-activated effect known to a skilled artisan. The power supply of the sound emitting member includes at least one battery and, preferably includes three to four batteries.

[0065] The sound-emitting member may be housed in a decorative housing in a myriad of shapes and sizes. Further still, the sound-emitting member may be housed in a decorative housing made of a myriad of materials such as, for example, ceramics, plastics, glass, polymers, metals or combinations thereof.

[0066] Preferably, the sound emitting member may be housed in a decorative housing that is sculpted to resemble an animal, such as a member in the fish family (e.g., goldfish, tropical fish), or a member in amphibian family (e.g., frog, toad, salamander), or a member in the reptile family (e.g., crocodile, alligator, turtle, tortoise), a member of the bird family (e.g., duck, goose, crow, rooster, chicken) or a member in the mammal family (e.g., cow, cat, dog, sheep, lamb, rabbit, hare). Advantageously, the sound-emitting member is housed in a decorative housing in a form selected from the group consisting of: a dog, a cat, a rooster, a duck, a dolphin, a cow, a tiger, a rabbit, a dragon, a snake, a horse, a sheep, a monkey, a pig, an insect (e.g., bee, fly, ladybug, ant, butterfly) and a seal; or, the sound-emitting member is housed in a decorative housing in the form of a plant or of an inanimate object, such as a tree, a mountain, and a flower, an electrical appliance, a locomotive or train, a car, an airplane, a jet, a space shuttle, a truck, a car (or generally, transportation means), a volcano, a building or structure (e.g., a house a building or structure such as the Eiffel Tower, etc.), a sport equipment (bat, ball, hockey stick, etc), furniture, or any and all other inanimate object, animate object, animal, etc. For instance, the sound-emitting member is housed in a decorative housing that can be shaped like a caricature of a famous person or character, such as a snow man or Santa Claus, and the sound emitting member can emit a quote or phrase from that person or character (e.g., a “Clint Eastwood” or “Dirty Harry” or “George Bush” fastening device that emits the phrase “Read My Lips” when activated, or a “Bugs Bunny” fastening device that emits the phrase “What's Up Doc?” when activated, or a Santa Claus fastening device that emits a sound like “Ho Ho Ho” and the like).

[0067] Further still, the sound emitting member may be any such member that emits sound in response to pressure activation. Such a sound emitting member can be an electronic sound emitting member that has a pre-programmed noise, word, phrase, music, or other desired audio signal or sound. Optionally or alternatively, the sound emitting member can record and playback a noise, word, phrase, music, or other desired audio signal or sound.

[0068] Further optionally or alternatively, the sound emitting member may include a VOX—a voice activated (or sound activated) switch—for instance, a switch that can activate the play and/or recordation of the noise, word, phrase, music, or other desired audio signal or sound. Also optionally or alternatively, the sound emitting member can include another or a different switch or other switches, such as a light sensitive switch; for instance, a switch that allows the sound emitting member to be activated when there is light and not activated when there is no light (so, for example, if the fastening device is in a relatively dark setting, such as a bathroom at night, the sound emitting member will not emit a sound when used, but it will do so when there is light, such as during the day).

[0069] And, even further still, the sound emitting member may include or may comprise a transmitter; for instance, instead of or in addition to emitting an audio signal, the device emits a signal in response to pressure activation; e.g., the signal may be an IR or other suitable signal; and, there may be a remote receiver that receives the signal and performs a function, such as emitting a noise, word, phrase, music or other desired audio signal or sound. The remote receiver may receive signals and perform a particular function, e.g., emit a particular noise, word, phrase, music or other desired audio signal or sound, for each particular signal. (Thus, “sound emitting member” may include any or all of the foregoing; and, “sound” emitted by the “sound emitting member” may include audio sound and/or the transmission of a signal that is other than audio, e.g., somewhere in the electromagnetic spectrum such as an IR, infra-red or RF radio frequency signal.) The sound emitting member can generate a sound that is consistent with the sound that would be made by the shape depicted on the sound emitting member housing. Thus, when the sound emitting member is activated, the fastening device can entertain the young and old in the shower or bathroom. For example, if the sound emitting member is shaped like a cow, it can emit a “moo” sound when the sound emitting member is activated. Thus, the invention relates to fastening devices that can be entertaining.

[0070] Further, the ability of the sound emitting member to emit a sound when activated assists those who are blind or visually impaired; for instance, by emitting a sound when the sound emitting member is activated, a blind or visually impaired person can have sound or audio confirmation that the person is in the bathroom or near the bathtub or near the location where the sound-emitting member is located.

[0071] Alternatively and/or additionally, the sound-emitting device can play music; for example, a “cow” could play “Hey Diddle Diddle” , or be otherwise shaped and emit music (e.g., be shaped like a baseball bat and play “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” or be shaped otherwise, e.g., like a musical instrument, and play a portion of a song, melody or tune). Further, the sound-emitting member can remind a child in the shower to “scrub behind your ears.”

[0072] Even further still, it is contemplated that the fastening device comprises a VOX, and in response to a sound such as that of the flow of water in a sink or the flush of a toilet, the sound emitting member emits a sound, such as a phrase, e.g., “remember to wash hands” or “remember to brush teeth”; and, when activated thereafter, it can emit a different sound such as a phrase, e.g., “good job” or “pick up the towel.”

[0073] Accordingly, it is contemplated that the fastening devices can be educational tools, e.g., promote good sanitary or other behavior and/or teach a word and/or assist those who are blind or visually impaired and/or that are entertaining.

[0074] Further, a kit is provided comprising one or more sound-emitting devices for connecting a shower curtain to a rod, each sound emitting fastening device comprising: a motion activated sound emitting member housed in a decorative housing; an insulating element adapted to be removably inserted into said decorative housing to prevent activation of said sound emitting member; and a coupling member comprising a first end connected to said decorative housing, and an element positioned adjacent said first end for removably supporting said shower curtain and a second end formed substantially in the shape of a hook and adapted to slidably and removably couple to said rod. Preferably, the insulating material is removed to allow actuation of said sound emitting member after deployment thereof. Further, the insulating material may be reinserted into said decorative housing at any time to prevent activation of said sound emitting member. The insulating material may be made of any material known to a skilled artisan including, for example, plastic.

[0075] While the invention has been described with respect to use as a connector and/or a fastening device to connect between a sheet material and a substantially fixed object, it is to be understood the invention can be used to connect between two sheet materials or any two objects. It is further to be understood that the fastening device of the present invention can be made from any method, such as injection molding, blow-molding or any conventional method and can be made from any material synthetic or natural in any colors. The material and object to be fastened and connected by the present invention are not necessarily limitations of the invention.

[0076] It is to be further understood that any utilitarian description herein of any component of the fastening device of the present invention, i.e. any feature thereon, is not to be construed as a statement that the appearance of any component of the invention is functional in nature or dictated by function. Surface ornamentation or configuration of the fastening device or any components thereof, for example, the exterior of the fastening device, such as the coupling means or the attachment means or any portion thereof, are attributable to ornamental considerations.

[0077] Having thus described in detail the preferred embodiments of the present invention, it is to be understood that the invention defined by the appended claims is not to be limited by particular details set forth in the above description, as many apparent variations thereof are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention.

Fastening device

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