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(11) | EP 2 526 798 A2 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | Hair extension assembly |
| (57) A hair extension assembly (20) as described includes at least one hair extension
(22, 24), a hair fastener (30), and at least one hair extension connector (32, 34).
The hair fastener engages the wearer's hair, and the at least one hair extension is
indirectly connected to the hair fastener via a hair extension connector, such as
a thin flexible loop made of thread, string, wire, ribbon, or fiber. When applied,
the thin connector is the only material necessarily within the fastener next to the
wearer's hair and the connector separates the hair extension strands from the fastener.
The hair extension assembly is quickly and easily applied to provide a customizable,
free-flowing, and natural appearance that is comfortable, less bulky and easy to maintain
and shampoo.
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FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to hair extensions, and more specifically, to a hair extension assembly in which one or more hair extensions, each comprising a plurality of hair strands, are secured to a hair extension connector that is movably coupled to a hair fastener.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Hair extensions are a well known and popular product for increasing the length and/or fullness of a person's hair while blending in and integrating with the hair of the wearer. Extensions allow the wearer to tailor the appearance of their hair by typically adding multiple extensions with selected length(s) and color(s) to achieve a desired look. Known hair extensions can be weaved, glued/adhered, clipped onto or crimped into a wearer's actual hair. Hair extensions may comprise a group of hair extension strands that are glued at one end to form a tip. One long-lasting technique of applying hair extensions involves threading a section of a person's actual hair through a deformable fastening ring, placing the tip of a hair extension into the fastening ring and then crimping the ring, thereby fixedly securing both the hair extension strands and the person's actual hair within the crimped ring. Crimped hair extensions provide a secure and integrated engagement with the wearer's actual hair that can comfortably withstand an active lifestyle, hair brushing, hair shampooing and sleeping. Once applied, the extensions can be worn for as many as one to three months.
[0003] The process of applying the extensions may involve the use of many dozens of hair extensions and fastening rings in order to give the wearer's hair a full, natural and symmetrical appearance. This is a time-consuming and costly process involving the repetitive handling of multiple components such as the small fastening rings, the hair extension and the crimping tool. The number of fastening rings is generally determined by the style desired and the amount of fullness and length to be added to the wearer's actual hair.
[0004] In general, it is desirable to reduce the number of connecting rings to reduce the application time, maximize comfort and to achieve a natural appearance. However, because both the wearer's hair and the extension are threaded through each ring, the amount of hair extension strands applied within the ring is generally limited by the size of the fastening ring. Use of larger rings could reduce the number of rings necessary, but the size of the rings is limited by factors such as the weight of the extension, obtrusiveness of the ring through the wearer's actual hair, and comfort. Comfort is critical to the longevity of use of hair extensions. Concealment of the rings within the wearer's hair is also critically important, where smaller rings are less obtrusive and noticeable. An undetectable and integrated finish is often harder to achieve with thin hair, lighter hair colors, and/or hair areas at the top and side locations.
[0005] While crimping provides a secure engagement with less scalp and hair contact with glue/adhesives than other techniques involving direct glue/adhesive application, the foregoing crimping technique does require the wearer's actual hair to be crimped tightly against the glue used to form the tip of the hair extension, which glue can damage the actual hair over time. The wearer's actual hair strands may become integrated into the glue due to the pressure of the crimp and the movement of the hair against the glue during the course of wearing the hair extension in natural activities such as sleeping. Removal of the hair extension thus may also cause tugging of the actual hair or even loss of strands of actual hair. Hair extension techniques which can damage or pull out a wearer's actual hair are particularly not desirable by those with thin or thinning hair.
[0006] Depending on the style desired, the hair type of the wearer and location of the application of the extension, one approach that has been used in certain applications to overcome the foregoing drawbacks involves a multi-extension apparatus that comprises an elongated weft of fabric with hair extension strands sewn into the weft along the weft's length. A plurality of connecting rings are sewn to the weft in fixed locations at spaced intervals along the length of the weft. To apply the apparatus, the weft is placed immediately adjacent the scalp; a section of the wearer's actual hair is threaded through the first connecting ring and crimped; and then specific sections of the wearer's actual hair corresponding to the locations of the fixed connecting rings must be sequentially grasped from behind the weft and threaded through the connecting rings and crimped. Additional multi-extension weft apparatuses and/or other hair extensions are then applied to the wearer's head to achieve the desired appearance.
[0007] While this particular technique avoids the problem of glue contacting the wearer's actual hair and the problem of incorporating the hair extension strands within the connecting rings, it is not suitable for all applications and has other drawbacks. Wefts are not generally recommended for thin hair and/or light hair with specific style requests (such as where the weft would be noticeable under the hair or would add too much bulk and weight); wefts are also not generally suitable for applications where variability in color, length and/or style of hair extension strands is desired. Wefts, e.g., can add weight, bulk, rigidity, discomfort and make shampooing of the hair and scalp more difficult than the prior art application of crimping a single hair extension. While the hair extension strands are not within the connecting rings and the amount of hair extension strands applied within the wearer's hair is accordingly increased for a given size of connecting rings, the weft adds the bulk of the weft material and the bulk of the excess hair which is folded over for the purpose of sewing the hair to the weft. The application of the weft also requires specific sections of hair in precise locations behind the weft to be grasped for threading based on the close attachment of the weft against the scalp and the fixed relationship of the location of its connecting rings. Thus, a need continues for a hair extension assembly that addresses the foregoing issues.
SUMMARY
[0008] In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a hair extension assembly is provided which comprises at least one hair extension comprising a plurality of hair strands, wherein the at least one hair extension has a first end. The assembly further comprises a hair fastener having a length defining a length axis and also comprises at least one hair extension connector. The at least one hair extension first end is connected to the at least one hair extension connector, and the hair extension connector is connected to the hair fastener. The entire length of the at least one hair extension is movable from a first orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis to a second orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis. However, in the second, third, and fourth aspects of the present disclosure described below the feature that the entire length of the at least one hair extension is movable from a first orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis to a second orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis is merely optional and not necessary. In optional embodiments of the first aspect, the at least one hair extension connector has a cross-sectional area, and the cross-sectional area of the first end of the at least one hair extension is greater than the cross-sectional area of the at least one hair extension connector. However, in this first aspect of the disclosure, this optional feature is not necessary compared to the third aspect of the disclosure described below.
[0009] In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, a hair extension assembly is provided which comprises a single hair fastener and a plurality of hair extensions connected to the single hair fastener. Each hair extension in the plurality of hair extensions has a first end and a second end, and each hair extension first end is connected to the single hair fastener and selectively movable with respect to the single hair fastener. In certain optional embodiments, the entire length of the at least one hair extension is movable from a first orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis to a second orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis. However, in this second aspect of the present disclosure, this optional feature is not necessary compared to the first aspect of the disclosure described above. In certain other optional embodiments, the assembly includes a plurality of hair extension connectors, the first end of each of the hair extensions has a cross-sectional area, each of the hair extension connectors has a cross-sectional area, and the cross-sectional area of the first end of the hair extensions is greater than the cross-sectional area of the hair extension connectors. However, in this second aspect of the disclosure, this optional feature is not necessary compared to the third aspect of the present disclosure described below.
[0010] In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, a hair extension assembly is provided which comprises at least one hair extension, a hair fastener having a length and an opening along the length, and at least one hair extension connector. The first end of the at least one hair extension is directly connected to the at least one hair extension connector, and the at least one hair extension connector extends through the opening of the hair fastener. The first end of the at least one hair extension has a cross-sectional area, the at least one hair extension connector has a cross-sectional area, and the cross-sectional area of the first end of the at least one hair extension is greater than the cross-sectional area of the at least one hair extension connector. In certain optional embodiments, the entire length of the at least one hair extension is movable from a first orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis to a second orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis. However, in this third aspect of the disclosure, this optional feature is not necessary compared to the first aspect of the disclosure described above.
[0011] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a method of applying hair extensions to a person's hair is provided. The method comprises providing a hair extension assembly comprising at least one hair extension having a first end, a hair fastener having a length axis, and at least one hair extension connector. The first end of the at least one hair extension is connected to the at least one hair extension connector. The hair fastener is secured to the person's hair such that the first end of the at least one hair extension is spaced apart from the hair fastener. In certain optional embodiments, the step of securing the hair fastener to the person's hair comprises threading the person's through the opening of the hair fastener and crimping the hair fastener to the person's head such that the first end of the at least one hair extension is spaced apart from the opening of the hair fastener. However, this optional feature is not necessary. In other optional embodiments, the hair extension connector is a loop through the hair fastener. However, this optional feature is not necessary. In further optional embodiments, the entire length of the at least one hair extension is movable from a first orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis to a second orientation parallel to the hair fastener length axis. However, in this fourth aspect of the disclosure, this optional feature is not necessary compared to the first aspect of the disclosure described above. In still further optional embodiments, the at least one hair extension connector has a cross-sectional area, and the cross-sectional area of the first end of the at least one hair extension is greater than the cross-sectional area of the at least one hair extension connector. However, in this fourth aspect of the disclosure, this optional feature is not necessary compared to the third aspect of the disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The disclosure will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1a is a side elevational view of a first embodiment of a hair extension assembly with two hair extensions shown in a first configuration;
[0014] FIG. 1b is a cross-sectional view of a hair extension connector of FIG. 1a taken along the line b-b;
[0015] FIG. 1c is a cross-sectional of a hair extension first end of FIG. 1a taken along the line c-c;
[0016] FIG. 1d is an alternate embodiment of the cross-section of the hair extension connector of FIG. 1b;
[0017] FIG. 1e is an alternate embodiment of the cross-section of the hair extension first end of FIG. 1c;
[0018] FIG. 1f is an alternate embodiment of a hair fastener with a hair extension connector attached to it;
[0019] FIG. 1g is a cross-sectional view of the hair fastener of FIG. 1f taken along line g-g in plane P.
[0020] FIG. 2a is a schematic view of the hair extension assembly of FIG. 1 with one hair extension in a first configuration and the second hair extension removed;
[0021] FIG. 2b is a schematic view of the hair extension assembly of FIG. 2 with the hair extension in a second configuration;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the hair extension assembly of FIG. 1 with the hair extensions in a second configuration;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a hair extension assembly hair fastener connected to and two hair extension connectors;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a depiction of an application tool engaged with the hair extension assembly of FIG. 1;
[0026] FIG. 7 is a depiction of a person's hair being threaded through the fastener ring of the hair extension assembly of FIG. 1; and
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] The present disclosure relates to a hair extension assembly connecting at least one hair extension to a hair fastener. The hair fastener is used to attach the assembly to a person's hair. The hair extensions are movably attached to the hair fastener via a hair extension connector. When the assembly is applied, a small section of the person's hair is attached through the fastener, but the at least one hair extension is not directly in contact with fastener, and instead is spaced apart from the inside of the fastener via a hair extension connector. Preferably, a portion of the length of the hair extension connector extends below the hair fastener and spaces the at least one hair extension below the hair fastener whereby the at least one hair extension is movably connected to the fastener.
[0029] Referring to FIG. 1a, an exaggerated side elevation view of a preferred embodiment of hair extension assembly 20 is depicted. Hair extension assembly 20 comprises a hair fastener 30, and two hair extensions 22 and 24. For ease of illustration, the size of hair fastener 30 has been exaggerated relative to hair extensions 22 and 24. In the figure, hair extensions 22 and 24 are spaced apart from hair fastener 30 in a direction along and away from the lengthwise axis (z-axis). The hair extensions 22, 24 comprise a plurality of synthetic or natural hair strands and may be provided in a variety of colors, styles and lengths as dictated by the wearer's preferences. The hair extension strands comprising hair extensions 22, 24 may also be provided in a number of different shape configurations, such as straight, curly, wavy, feathers, metallic, plastic, or fiber-optic. Different lengths, styles, colors and materials can be combined to create a style customizable for the wearer. Because different lengths, styles, colors and materials can be selected for different attachment locations, the stylist or wearer can customize the look as desired. In certain implementations, the hair strands are pre-treated with a material that enhances the softness of its texture.
[0030] Hair fastener 30 is generally annular and includes a through-opening 36 along its length (in the z-axis direction). Although the length/diameter ratio of fastener 30 appears to be greater than 1 in the figure, no particular ratio is required. In addition, hair fasteners having shapes other than annular may be used. However, hair fastener 30 is preferably configured for attachment to a wearer's actual hair.
[0031] Hair extension connectors 32 and 34 each connect respective hair extensions 22 and 24 to hair fastener 30. In certain implementations, hair extension connectors 32 and 34 are thin loops. In the example of FIGS. 1a and 2a-2b, the hair extension connectors 32 and 34 each encircle the length (but not the perimeter) of the hair fastener 30 from a location inside opening 36 to a position outside of hair fastener 30. Hair extension connectors 32 and 34 are preferably thin, flexible, strong and moveable with respect to hair fastener 30. Hair extension connectors 32 and 34 may comprise synthetic or natural materials, and are preferably in the form of fibers, threads, or strings. Hair extension connectors 32 and 34 are preferably strong enough to withstand the weight of hair extensions 22 and 24 while still remaining flexible to give hair extensions 22 and 24 a free-flowing and natural appearance. In the embodiment of hair extension assembly 20 of FIG. 1, each hair extension connector 32 and 34 is moveable around the length axis (z) of the hair fastener 30 in circumferential direction C around the entire perimeter of hair fastener 30.
[0032] Hair fastener 30 may have shapes other than cylinders. In one example, shown in FIGS. 1f and 1g, a partially-cylindrical hair fastener 30 defining a U-shaped cross-section is used. As shown in the figures, hair fastener 30 has a first end 35 and a second end 37 which lie in a common plane P that is perpendicular to length axis L. A portion of hair extension connector 32 lies in plane P and is movable from first end 35 to second end 37. Partially-cylindrical hair fastener 30 may also have retaining features for preventing hair connector 30 from sliding off of hair fastener 30.
[0033] In FIG. 1a, the hair extensions 22 and 24 are spaced apart from hair fastener 30 in both the lengthwise (z-axis) direction of fastener 30 and in a direction perpendicular to the lengthwise direction. This is how the assembly 20 might appear laid out on a table. However, in certain embodiments, if fastener 30 is picked up and held in the air, the hair extensions 22, 24 will fall downward and toward the z-axis, in which case extensions 22 and 24 will be spaced apart from the fastener 30 in the z-axis direction, but not necessarily in a direction perpendicular to it. In an attached condition, the hair extension assemblies 20 will be attached to the wearer's head at the hair fastener 30 and will otherwise generally hang downward such that the hair extensions 22 and 24 will be spaced apart from the hair fastener 30 along the z-axis direction and/or in a direction away from the z-axis direction. In an attached condition, hair extensions 22, 24 will not be crimped within the fastener 30 and only a small section of the wearer's actual hair will be crimped within fastener 30 next to any material of the connector on the interior of fastener 30.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 1a, hair extension 22 has a first end 26a and a second end 26b. First end 26a is generally formed into a tip by closely aggregating individual hairs and binding them together, such as by using an adhesive or mechanical fastener (like a small band or thread). In certain embodiments, an adhesive is further used to attach first end 26a to hair extension connector 32. Second end 26b of hair extension 22 is not formed into a tip and the individual hairs comprising second end 26b are not attached to one another, giving the extension 22 a free flowing and natural appearance. Correspondingly, first end 28a of hair extension 24 is formed into a tip by closely aggregating and binding individual hairs together. Second end 28b is not formed into a tip and the individual hairs comprising second end 28b are not attached to one another. In preferred embodiments, a biocompatible adhesive is used to form the first ends 26a and 26b of hair extensions 22 and 24 into tips. Suitable examples of a biocompatible adhesive are those comprising a keratin protein. Commercially available examples of such adhesives include hot melt keratin glues supplied under the trade names BLS-9093 to BLS-9097 by Balice Hair of Yiwu City, China. The adhesives are preferably selected to avoid ingredients that may lead to scalp irritation.
[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1b and 1c, in certain preferred implementations, hair extension connector 32 has a cross-sectional area, (Π/4)D12 (FIG. 1b) that is less than the cross-sectional area of the first end 26a of hair extension 22, (Π/4)D22 (Fig. 1c). This difference in cross-sectional area allows the opening 36 of hair fastener 30 to accommodate a greater amount of the wearer's hair than would be possible if first end 26a of hair extensions 22 were disposed in opening 36 and crimped with the wearer's hair, as is the case in certain known assemblies. Thus, fastener 30 need not be sized to account for the retention of hair extensions 22, 24 within the opening of fastener 30. The relative cross-sectional areas of hair extension connector 34 and first end 28a of hair extension 24 may be configured similarly.
[0036] The cross-sections of hair extension connector 32 and/or first end 26a of hair extension 22 need not be circular and may other regular or irregular shapes. In certain examples, hair extension connector 32 will have a maximum dimension when viewed in cross-section (e.g., a maximum linear distance from one portion of the cross-section to another) which will be less than a maximum dimension of first end 26a of hair extension 22 when first end 26a is viewed in cross-section. For example, FIG. 1d depicts an irregularly shaped cross-section of hair extension connector 32, and FIG. 1e depicts a generally rectangular cross-section for first end 26a of hair extension 22. The maximum dimension of the cross-section of hair extension connector 32 in FIG. 1d is X. The maximum dimension of the cross-section of first end 26a of hair extension 22 in Fig. 1e is Z. As FIGS. 1d and 1e indicate, the length X is less than that of diagonal Z. In additional embodiments, the maximum cross-sectional dimension of hair extension connector 32 may be less than the minimum cross-sectional dimension of first end 26a of hair extension 22, in which case X would be less than W.
[0037] Hair extensions 22 and 24 have more degrees of freedom relative to hair fastener 30 than in many known hair extension assemblies. Prior to crimping, the extensions 22 and 24 may be manipulated in a number of directions and orientations relative to hair fastener 30 while still being connected to it via their respective hair extension connectors 32 and 34. For example, the hair extensions 22 and 24 may be placed together or apart along the perimeter of the hair fastener 30. In addition, the first ends 26a and 28a may be placed in abutting engagement with the hair fastener 30 or spaced apart from it by a maximum distance dictated by the dimensions and flexibility of hair extension connectors 32 and 34. However, as mentioned previously, in normal use the extensions 22 and 24 will simply hang freely from the hair fastener 30 such that the first ends 26a and 26b will be spaced apart from it in the z-axis direction and/or in a direction away from the z-axis. The particular orientation of the spacing between the first ends 26a and 26b will depend on the location of placement of hair extension assembly 20 on the wearer's head, the length of the hair between the wearer's scalp and the hair fastener 30, and the curvature of the wearer's head.
[0038] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, hair fastener 30 is generally rigid but is plastically deformable through the application of force in its radial (perpendicular to the z-axis) direction. In certain implementations, a threshold deformation force generated by mechanical assistance is required. Tools for providing such mechanical assistance include pliers, vice grips, or other devices that can apply a compressive force in the radial direction of hair fastener 30. The deformable nature of hair fastener 30 facilitates its secure attachment to human hair threaded through opening 36. Suitable materials of construction for hair fastener 30 include aluminum, and copper. Hair fastener 30 preferably has a color that is selected to match the wearer's hair and/or that of hair extensions 22 and/or 24. The dimensions of hair fastener 30 and its opening 36 are also preferably configured to facilitate deformation. Suitable hair fasteners 30 include aluminum micro-rings supplied under the trade names BLS-9030 to BLS-9049 by Balice Hair.
[0039] In certain implementations, it is desirable to provide a material on the inner surface of hair fastener 30 which is biocompatible with human hair. As best seen in FIG. 3, in certain examples, hair fastener 30 includes an inner surface material 38. Inner surface material 38 may be formed from a variety of materials, but is preferably a biocompatible polymeric material. Suitable examples include silicone polymers. In certain examples, the inner surface is coated with inner surface material. In other examples, an insert is preformed and is inserted into the opening 36 of fastener. Suitable micro-rings with silicone insert linings are commercially available and include those sold under the trade names BLS-9060 to BLS-9063 by Balice Hair.
[0040] In FIGS. 2a and 2b, hair extension assembly 20 is shown with hair extension 24 and its corresponding hair extension connector 34 removed in order to better illustrate the degrees of freedom of the hair extensions 22 and 24. As shown in the figures, while hair extension connector 32 is at a fixed position around the perimeter of hair fastener 30, the entire length of hair extension 22 is moveable from a first position (FIG. 2a) in which the entire length of extension 22 (including first end 26a which is the end most proximate hair fastener 30) is generally parallel to the length axis (z-axis) of hair fastener 30 to a second position (FIG. 2b) in which the entire length of extension 22 (including first end 26a) is oriented oppositely but still generally parallel to the length axis (z-axis) of hair fastener 30. This degree of movability is made possible by the hair extension connector 32. Hair extension connector 32 attaches hair extension 22 to hair fastener 30, while still allowing hair extension 22 to remain outside the interior of hair fastener 30 and, preferably, spaced apart from hair fastener 30. In the preferred embodiment, some movability is preserved even after the hair extension assembly 20 is attached to the wearer's hair to achieve a natural movement. In known hair extension designs, the first end 26a of hair extension 22 is disposed in a connecting ring along with the wearer's actual hair and the ring is then crimped. As a result, part of the hair extension is fixedly attached to the wearer's hair and unable to move freely with respect to the connecting ring. Hair extension assembly 20 overcomes this drawback. Even when hair extension assembly 20 is in an attached configuration on a wearer's head, the entire lengths of both hair extensions 22 and 24 are free to naturally move with the motion of the head.
[0041] To facilitate the application of hair extension assemblies 20 to a wearer's head, a plurality of such assemblies 20 may be provided as a kit. In a kit configuration, each hair extension assembly 20 is separate from and disconnected from the other hair extension assemblies. In certain examples, a common color will be used for all of the hair extensions 22 and 24 in a kit. Similarly, a common color may be used for all of the hair fasteners 30 and/or all of the hair extension connectors 32 and 43 in a kit. The kit may alternatively provide differing lengths, colors, textures, and/or styles in one kit to be applied around the head to achieve a specifically designed look.
[0042] Hair extension assembly 20 may include one or-more hair extensions 22, 24. Because the hair extension connector 32 is thin, the amount of hair extension strands that can be used in association with a single fastener is not limited by the need to fit the hair extension strands within the inner diameter of the fastener. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, two extensions 22 and 24 are provided. Additional hair extensions may also be provided. In one example, hair extension assembly 20 may be provided with three (3) hair extensions. However, in certain preferred implementations, the number of hair extensions in a single hair extension assembly 20 will be limited to two in order to avoid excessive gravitational pulling force on the wearer's actual hair.
[0043] A method of making the hair extension assembly of FIG. 1 will now be described with reference to the flow chart of FIG. 8 and FIGS. 4-5. Referring first to FIG. 8, a hair fastener 30 of the type described previously is provided (step 1002). A hair extension connector 32 is provided in an unlooped configuration and is threaded through opening 36 in hair fastener 30 so that hair extension connector 32 is axially disposed on the hair extension connector 32 between first hair extension connector section 40a and second hair extension connector section 40b (step 1004). The first and second sections 40a and 40b are then looped and joined together at a location 44, such as by tying a knot (step 1006). Excess length of the hair extension connector material may then be cut and discarded.
[0044] In step 1008, first end 26a of hair extension 22 is attached to hair extension connector 32 proximate location 44 where first and second hair extension connector sections 40a and 40b are joined. In one implementation, strands of hair used to form first end 26a of hair extension 22 are aggregated in a generally flat configuration and coated with an adhesive of the type described previously, such as a hot melt keratin glue. The coated hair strands are then rolled around hair extension connector 32 to form tip 26a. One exemplary method of performing step 1008 is depicted in FIG. 5. As shown in the figure, a fastener retainer 48 (such as a pin or a needle) is secured to a support object 50 (such as a pin cushion). Hair fastener 30 is then disposed on fastener retainer 48 so that the retainer 48 projects through opening 36 in hair fastener 30. Adhesive-covered fibers used to form first end 26a of hair extension 22 are then rolled around hair extension connector 32 to form a tip. Alternative methods of securing the hair extension strands to the connector may be advantageous to increase speed of manufacture and/or costs. For example, a preferred method includes the use of multiple fastening rings placed in a slidable position along a rigid wire with the connector looped through the fastening rings and knotted, whereby groupings of hair strands are repeatedly secured to the loops using an adhesive and completed assemblies can be pushed down the wire.
[0045] Returning to FIG. 8, in step 1010 it is determined whether additional hair extensions are to be added. For example, to construct the hair extension assembly 20 of FIG. 1, the process would be repeated by returning to step 1002 and attaching hair extension connector 34 to hair fastener 30 in the same manner described previously for hair extension connector 32 and then repeating steps 1004 to 1006. In the method of FIG. 8, hair extension 22 is attached to hair extension connector 32 before second hair extension connector 34 is attached to hair fastener 30. However, other sequences may be used. As illustrated in FIG. 4, second hair extension connector 34 may be attached to hair fastener 30 before attaching first hair extension 22 to first hair extension connector 32.
[0046] A method of applying hair extension assembly 20 to a wearer's hair will now be described with reference to FIG. 6. Application tool 52 is provided and is a generally elongated tool with a handle section 54 and a hair engagement section 56. Handle section 54 is preferably rigid and is configured to be gripped by a single hand. Handle 54 may be formed from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, polymeric resins, composites of polymeric resins and additives/fillers, etc. Handle 54 may also include surface features such as grooves, ridges, indentations, and the like to facilitate gripping.
[0047] Engagement section 56 preferably includes a thin, elongated rigid shaft 57. Tip 58 is preferably configured to facilitate engagement with a person's hair. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, tip 58 is formed as a hook. A gripping latch 60 may also be provided to facilitate engagement of the wearer's hair with the elongated shaft 57. Gripping latch 60 has a first end connected to the elongated shaft 57 and a second, free end. Gripping latch 60 is pivotable about its point of connection to the elongated shaft 57, and preferably pivots in a direction toward shaft tip 58 and the shaft 57.
[0048] In accordance with the method, hair extension assembly 20 is provided, and a stylist grips handle 54 of application tool 52. Application tool tip 58 is then pushed through opening 36 of hair fastener 30 until reaching the position shown in FIG. 6.
[0049] With the application tool 52 positioned as shown in FIG. 6, the stylist uses tip 58 and gripping latch 60 to grip several strands of the wearer's hair. Once gripped, the strands of the wearer's air are pulled back through the opening 36 in hair fastener 30 as shown in FIG. 7. During this step, gripping latch 60 engages hair fastener 30 as latch 60 is pulled backward through the opening 36 of hair fastener 30, causing the latch 60 to pivot toward a position parallel to the elongated shaft 57. Hair fastener 30 is adjusted to a desired location along the length of the hair strands that have now been pulled through it. A compressive force is applied to hair fastener 30 to secure it to the wearer's hair strands projecting through opening 36. The compressive force is preferably applied with mechanical assistance such as through the use of conventional hand tools. Pliers are preferred. Other tools, such as vise-grips may also be used. The stylist then repeats the process until the desired number of hair extension assemblies 20 have been applied to selected locations on the wearer's actual hair.
[0050] Once the hair extension assembly 20 is applied, extensions 22 and 24 remain moveable with respect to the now-crimped hair fastener 30. For example, their first ends 26a and 28a may be moved from one position in which they are in abutting engagement with hair fastener 30 or spaced apart from the hair fastener 30 in a direction perpendicular to the length axis (z-axis). First ends 26a and 28b may also be spaced apart from the hair fastener 30 in a direction parallel to the length (z-axis). However, during normal as applied to a wearer's head, the extensions 22 and 24 will hang freely with the first ends 26a and 26b spaced apart from the length (z-axis) in a direction that is parallel to the length (z-axis) and/or in a direction away from the length (z-axis).
[0051] With the hair extension assemblies 20 in place on the wearer's head, the wearer can shower, bathe, shampoo, condition, brush and/or blow dry her actual hair as well as the hair extensions 22, 24. After having been worn for a desired length of time, the hair extension assemblies 20 can be removed from the wearer's head. For example, if deformable rings, such as aluminum micro-rings, are used to form hair fastener 30, the fastener 30 can again be deformed to allow the hair fastener 30 to be removed from the wearer's actual hair. In one example, a compressive force is applied to fastener causing the opening 36 (which has since been somewhat flattened) to expand and facilitate removal of the fastener 30. With care, the ring can be decrimped and re-used.
[0052] Hair extension assembly 20 provides several advantages over many known hair extensions, some of which have been described above. For example, in many known configurations, the amount of hair extension strands that can be connected to a given hair fastener is limited because the ring must accommodate the wearer's actual hair and all of the hair extension strands being applied within the opening of the fastener. However, as shown in FIG. 1, hair extension assembly 20 readily accommodates a greater amount of hair extension strands including multiple hair extensions. Hair extension assembly 20 allows a wearer to attach more hair extension strands in less space and with fewer rings. The fewer number of rings, along with the pre-assembly of the pieces, makes application easier. Comfort is also enhanced by the reduction in the number of required rings (and other material used to achieve the attachment of the hair extension strands). A reduction in the number of attachments and/or smaller size of the fasteners provides an integrated and natural appearance, which is especially beneficial for people with thinner hair where the excessive numbers of rings tended to be needed to achieve the desired fullness or style can lead to discomfort and an unattractive visibility of the hair extension ring. The ability to reduce the number of hair fasteners 30 also can be less damaging to the hair. The lack of adhesive or glue in close contact with the wearer's actual hair provides a substantial benefit.
[0053] Also, because hair extensions 22 and 24 are connected to hair fastener 30 via hair extension connectors 32, 34 the hair extensions 22 and 24 may be more readily re-used than with many conventional hair extensions because the hair extensions 22, 24 are not crimped in hair fasteners 30. As a result, the extensions 22, 24 can readily be separated from hair extension assembly 20 for subsequent re-use, such as by cutting hair extension connectors 32 and 34.
[0054] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings, with modifications and variations suited to the particular use contemplated.
1. A hair extension assembly (20) comprising:
At least one hair extension (22, 24) comprising a plurality of hair strands, wherein the at least one hair extension (22, 24) has a first end (26a, 28a);
a hair fastener (30) having a length defining a length axis;
at least one hair extension connector (32, 34), wherein the at least one hair extension first end (26a, 28a) is connected to the at least one hair extension connector (32, 34), the hair extension connector (32, 34) is connected to the hair fastener (30), and the entire length of the at least one hair extension (22, 24) is moveable from a first orientation parallel to the hair fastener (30) length axis to a second orientation parallel to the hair fastener (30) length axis.
2. The hair extension assembly (20) of claim 1, wherein the first end (26a, 28a) of the
at least one hair extension (22, 24) is movable from a first position abutting the
hair fastener (30) to a second position spaced apart from the hair fastener (30) in
a direction perpendicular to the hair fastener (30) length axis.
3. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein
the first end (26a, 28a) of the at least one hair extension (22, 24) is moveable around
the perimeter of the hair fastener (30).
4. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein
a portion of the at least one hair extension (22, 24) is movable in a plane perpendicular
to the length axis of the hair fastener (30).
5. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein
the hair fastener (30) includes an opening (36) along its length.
6. The hair extension assembly (20) of claim 5, wherein the at least one hair extension
connector (32. 34) comprises a loop through the hair fastener opening (36).
7. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein
at least a portion of the at least one hair extension connector (32, 34) is moveable
to a position below the hair fastener (30).
8. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein
the hair fastener (30) is a single hair fastener; the at least one hair extension
(22, 24) is a plurality of hair extensions, and each hair extension first end (26a,
28a) is connected to the single hair fastener (30) and selectively movable with respect
to the single hair fastener (30).
9. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein
the first end (26a, 28a) of the at least one hair extension (22, 24) defines a tip.
10. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein
the at least one hair extension connector (32, 34) is a plurality of hair extension
connectors (32, 34), each hair extension first end (26a, 28a) in the plurality of
hair extensions (22, 24) is connected to a corresponding hair extension connector
(32, 34) from among the plurality of hair extension connectors (32, 34), and each
hair extension connector (32, 34) is connected to the single hair fastener (30).
11. The hair extension assembly (20) of claim 10, wherein the plurality of hair extension
connectors (32, 34) are loops.
12. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of claims 8-11, wherein the
single hair fastener (30) includes an opening (36), each hair extension (22, 24) first
end (26a, 28a) in the plurality of hair extensions (22, 24) is connected to a corresponding
hair extension connector (32, 34) from among the at least one hair extension connector
(32, 34), and each hair extension connector (32, 34) is threaded through the single
hair fastener opening (36).
13. A hair extension assembly (20) in accordance with any of the preceding claims, wherein
the at least one hair extension (22, 24) first end (26a, 28a) has a maximum cross-sectional
dimension, the at least one hair extension connector (32, 34) has a maximum cross-sectional
dimension, and the at least one hair extension connector (32, 34) maximum cross-sectional
dimension is less than the at least one hair extension (22, 24) first end (26a, 28a)
maximum cross-sectional dimension.
14. A method of applying hair extensions (22, 24) to a person's hair, comprising:
providing the hair extension assembly (20) of any of the preceding claims;
securing the hair fastener (30) to the person's hair such that the first end (26a, 28a) of the at least one hair extension (22, 24) is spaced apart from the hair fastener (30).
15. The method of claim 14, comprising:
providing the hair extension assembly (20) of any one of claims 5-6, wherein the hair fastener (30) includes an opening (36) along its length, and the step of securing the hair fastener (30) to the person's hair comprises threading the person's hair through the opening (36) of the hair fastener (30) and crimping the hair fastener (30) to the person's hair such that the first end (26a, 28a) of the at least one hair extension (22, 24) is spaced apart from the opening of the hair fastener (30).