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(11) | EP 4 292 465 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | AN ADORNMENT DEVICE |
| (57) An adornment device including: a main body connectable to or connected to an article, the main body including a peripheral wall and an end wall which together define a cavity therein, said end wall including an opening in communication with the cavity and an interior surface which faces the article; an adornment member having first and second portions insertable through the opening and into the cavity of the main body; a biasing member for urging the adornment member away from the main body; wherein the adornment member is rotationally moveable relative to the main body between a locked condition and an unlocked condition, and wherein in the locked condition the biasing member urges a part of the second portion into engagement with the interior surface of the end wall such that the adornment member is held relative to the main body, and wherein in the unlocked condition the adornment member is disconnectable from the main body. |
INTRODUCTION
[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relates to an adornment device. More particularly, this invention relates to an adornment device for use with an article.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Adornments are typically applied to articles (e.g., luggage items or clothing items) to improve or otherwise tailor the aesthetics of an article. The reasons for applying an adornment may be based on the owner of an article's personal aesthetic preferences, to enable an article to be more easily identified from a group of articles or to present specific branding to a consumer. Adornments may be formed as part of an article, or may be connectable to an article.
[0003] Embodiments of the present invention seek to alleviate one or more problems associated with the prior art.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0004] According to a first aspect of the invention we provide an adornment device including:
a main body connectable to or connected to an article, the main body including a peripheral wall and an end wall which together define a cavity therein, said end wall including an opening in communication with a cavity and an interior surface which faces the article;
an adornment member having first and second portions insertable through the opening and into the cavity of the main body;
a biasing member for urging the adornment member away from the main body;
wherein the adornment member is rotationally moveable relative to the main body between a locked condition and an unlocked condition, and wherein in the locked condition the biasing member urges a part of the second portion into engagement with the interior surface of the end wall such that the adornment member is held relative to the main body, and wherein in the unlocked condition the adornment member is disconnectable from the main body.
[0005] The adornment member may be rotationally moveable about an elongate axis X, and the second portion of the adornment member may extend in a direction substantially radially away from the axis X.
[0006] The adornment device may include an abutment member for limiting the amount of relative rotation of the adornment member relative to the main body.
[0008] When the adornment member is in the locked condition the second portion of the adornment member may abut a part of the abutment member or may be positioned adjacent it.
[0009] The opening of the main body may include a first opening portion through which the first portion of the adornment member may be insertable, and a second opening portion through which the second portion of the adornment member may be insertable.
[0010] The second opening portion may extend away from the first opening portion, substantially radially away from a rotational axis of the adornment member.
[0011] When in the locked condition the part of the interior surface of the end wall with which the second portion of the adornment member engages may be positioned adjacent a periphery of the first portion of the opening.
[0012] The adornment member may include a third portion, and the opening may include a third opening portion through which the third portion of the adornment member may be insertable, and when in the locked condition the third portion of the adornment member may be in engagement with a part of the interior surface of the end wall which is adjacent the periphery of the first portion of the opening.
[0013] The adornment device may include a further abutment member, and when the adornment member is in the locked condition the third portion of the adornment member may abut a part of the further abutment member or may be positioned adjacent to it.
[0014] The third portion of the adornment member may be positioned generally opposite the second portion of the adornment member, preferably wherein the third portion may be positioned diametrically opposite the second portion.
[0015] The main body may include a recess positioned on the interior surface of the end wall and is adjacent the periphery of the first portion of the opening.
[0016] When in the locked condition a part of the second portion of the adornment member may engages with the recess.
[0017] The adornment device may include a further recess positioned on the interior surface of the end wall and may be adjacent the periphery of the first portion of the opening, and when in the locked condition a part of the third portion of the adornment member may engage with the further recess.
[0019] The adornment device may include an engagement member positioned between the adornment member and the biasing member, and preferably the engagement member may engage with a portion of the adornment member.
[0020] When in the locked condition the second portion, and preferably the third portion, of the adornment member may be sandwiched between the engagement member and the surface(s) of the cavity of the main body.
[0023] The adornment member may include an adornment part which may be releasably connectable to a remainder of the adornment member.
[0024] According to a second aspect of the invention we provide an article including an adornment device including any of the above features.
[0025] The article may be one of a luggage item, a bag a handbag, a purse, a rucksack, a pencil case, a makeup bag, a clothing item a wearable accessory, a belt, a footwear item, a pet clothing item, a pet accessory item, a pet collar, a pet leash or a pet coat.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0026] In order that the present disclosure may be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIGURE 1 is an exploded perspective view of an adornment device in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIGURE 2a is an exploded perspective view of the adornment device of figure 1;
FIGURE 2b is an exploded perspective view of the adornment device of figure 1;
FIGURE 3a is an exploded side cross-sectional view of the adornment device of figure 1;
FIGURE 3b is an exploded side cross-sectional view of the adornment device of figure 1;
FIGURE 4a is side cross-sectional view of the adornment device of figure 1 presented in an unlocked condition;
FIGURE 4b is side cross-sectional view of the adornment device of figure 1 presented in a locked condition;
FIGURE 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the main body of the adornment device of figure 1;
FIGURE 6a is a front view of the main body of the adornment device of figure 1;
FIGURE 6b is a rear view of the main body of the adornment device of figure 1;
FIGURE 7 is a front view of the abutment member assembly of the adornment device of figure 1;
FIGURE 8a is rear view of the detail 8-8 of figure 4b presented in the unlocked condition with the adornment part of the adornment member removed;
FIGURE 8b is rear view of the detail 8-8 of figure 4b presented in the locked condition with the adornment part of the adornment member removed;
FIGURE 9a is a front view of an engagement member of an adornment device in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIGURE 9b is a rear view of an engagement member of an adornment device in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIGURE 10 is a rear view of a main body of an adornment device in accordance with the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0027] Referring to the figures there is provided an adornment device 10 in accordance with the present disclosure. The adornment device 10 includes a main body 20, an adornment member 30 and a biasing member 40. The adornment device may also include at least one abutment member 50 and at least one recess 60, as described below.
[0028] Referring to figure 5, the main body 20 of the adornment device 10 has a first end 20a and second end 20b. The main body 20 is connectable to or connected to an article. The main body 20 includes a peripheral wall 26 and an end wall 25 which extends substantially transversely with respect to the peripheral wall 26. The peripheral wall 26 and the end wall 25 together define a cavity 24. The end wall 25 includes an interior surface 25a, which in use faces the article to which the main body 20 is connectable or connected to.
[0029] The main body 20 includes an opening 22 positioned on the end wall 25, with the opening 22 being in communication with the cavity 24. In use, the opening 22 may allow a user of the device 10 to insert a portion of the adornment member 30 at least partially into the cavity 24, as described below. In embodiments, other components of the adornment device 10 may be positioned within the cavity 24 of the main body 20. As shown in figure 5, the opening 22 and the end wall 25 of the main body 20 are positioned at the first end 20a of the main body 20. The opening 22 of the main body 20 may be substantially circular or elliptical in shape, and may comprise a plurality of portions as described below.
[0030] As shown in the figures, the main body 20 may be substantially cylindrical in shape, with the cross-sectional shape or profile of the main body 20 may be substantially circular or elliptical. In embodiments, the main body 20 may be of other shapes, with the cross-sectional shape or profile being shaped as any n-sided polygon.
[0031] As shown in figures to 5, the main body 20 may be formed from a plurality of parts which may be connected together. In the present embodiment, the main body 20 comprises a first part 201 and a second part 202 which may be connected together to form the cavity 24. The opening 22 which communicates with the cavity 24 and the end wall 25 may be positioned on the first part 201. In embodiments, the peripheral wall 26 may form a portion of the first part and / or the second part 202.
[0032] The main body 20 may be connectable to, or may be connected to, an article. In embodiments, the article may be a luggage item such as, but not limited to, a suitcase, a briefcase, a travel bag or a cabin bag. In other embodiments, the article may be an item for storing and carrying personal belongings such as, but not limited to, a bag, a handbag, a rucksack, a backpack, a knapsack, a pencil case, a musical instrument case, a games console case or a makeup bag. In other embodiments, the article may be a clothing item, a wearable accessory such as, but not limited to, a belt, or a footwear item. In other embodiments, the article may be a pet clothing item or a pet accessory item such as, but not limited to, a pet collar, a pet leash or a pet coat.
[0033] The main body 20 may include at least one connection member 21 which enables the main body 20 to be connected to an article. In the present embodiment, the connection member 21 is positioned at the second end 20b of the main body 20 and protrudes away from the main body 20. The connection member 21 may include a connection formation 21a. In embodiments, the connection formation 21a may be an aperture or recess which is configured to engage with a fastener such as, but not limited to, a screw, a bolt or a rivet, or it may be a protrusion configured to engage with a nut, clamp, plastic snap fit or any other appropriate means.
[0034] In embodiments, and in use, the connecting member 21 may be connected directly to the article, or it may engage with a mounting member 23 which may be connected to the article. In embodiments, the mounting member 23 may be positioned on a surface of the article which is generally opposite a surface of the article to which the main body 20 is to be connected to or otherwise held relative to. The connection member 21 may be connected to the mounting member 23 by use of any of the means described above. In other embodiments, the mounting member 23 may be positioned on a surface of the article to which the main body 20 is to be connected to or otherwise held relative to, with the connection member 21 of the main body being connected to the mounting member 23 by use of any of the means described above. In embodiments, the mounting member 23 may be formed integrally with article. In other embodiments, the main body 20 may be connected to an article such that it is formed integrally with the article without the use of a mounting member 23.
[0035] The adornment device 10 includes an adornment member 30 having a first portion 31 and a second portion 32. The first portion 31 and the second portion 32 are insertable through the opening 22 and into the cavity 24 of the main body 20. When inserted into the cavity 24, the first and second portions 31, 32 may be completely enclosed or surrounded by the walls of the main body 20, which may include at least the end wall 25 and the peripheral wall 26. In embodiments, the adornment member 30 may include further portions, such as a third portion 33 as described below. However, it should be understood that the adornment member 30 may include any number of portions. For example, in other embodiments, the adornment member may include a fourth portion, and may further include a fifth portion in addition to the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33.
[0036] The adornment member 30 is rotationally moveable relative to the main body 20 and about an elongate axis X of the adornment member 30. In use of the device 10, the elongate axis X may extend in a direction which is substantially parallel to the peripheral wall 26 of the main body 22, and in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or perpendicular to, the end wall 25 of the main body 20. In the present embodiment, and as shown in figure 3b, the second portion 32 of the adornment member 30 protrudes from the first portion 31 of the adornment member 30. In embodiments, the second portion 32 may extend in a direction substantially radially away from the elongate axis X of the adornment member 30. In embodiments, the second portion 32 may extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or substantially perpendicular to, the elongate axis X of the adornment member 30. In embodiments, the second portion 32 may also extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or substantially perpendicular to, the end wall 25 of the main body 20. The second portion 32 of the adornment member 30 may be formed as a separate component which may be connected to, or other fixed to, the first portion 31, or it may be formed integrally with the first portion 31 and protrude away from an exterior surface of the first portion 31. In embodiments, the first and second portions 31, 32 may be substantially cylindrical, substantially cuboid or any other appropriate shape.
[0037] In embodiments, the adornment member 30 may include a third portion 33 which is insertable through the opening 22 of the main body 20. The third portion 33 may be spaced apart from the second portion 32, and may be substantially similar to second portion 32. The third portion 33 may extend in a direction substantially radially away from the elongate axis X of the adornment member 30. In embodiments, the third portion 33 may extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or substantially perpendicular to, the elongate axis X of the adornment member 30. In embodiments, the third portion 33 may also extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or substantially perpendicular to, the end wall 25 of the main body 20. The third portion 33 of the adornment member 30 may be formed as a separate component which may be connected to, or other fixed to, the first portion 31, or it may be formed integrally with the first portion 31 and protrude away from an exterior surface of the first portion 31. The third portion 33 may be positioned generally opposite the second portion 32, such that they positioned on opposite sides of the first portion 31. In embodiments, the third portion 33 may be positioned diametrically opposite the second portion 32. In embodiments which include further portions which are insertable through the opening 22 and into the cavity 24 of the main body 20, such as a fourth portion and a fifth portion for example, these further portions may be spaced apart from the second and third portions 32, 33 and may be substantially similar to the second and third portions 32, 33. The further portions may extend in a direction substantially radially away from the elongate axis X of the adornment member 30. In embodiments, the further portions may extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or substantially perpendicular to, the elongate axis X of the adornment member 30. In embodiments, the further portions may also extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or substantially perpendicular to, the end wall 25 of the main body 20. The further portions of the adornment member 30 may each be formed as a separate component which may be connected to, or other fixed to, the first portion 31, or it may be formed integrally with the first portion 31 and protrude away from an exterior surface of the first portion 31.
[0038] It should be understood that in other embodiments, the second portion and/or third portion 32, 33, and any further portions, of the adornment member 31 may not protrude away from an exterior surface of the first portion 31. In embodiments, the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33 may correspond to regions of a single part of the adornment member 30. For example, if a part of the adornment member 30 which is insertable through the opening 22 of the main body 20 is formed as substantially circular or elliptical, the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33 of the adornment member 30 may correspond to regions of that circle or ellipsis. In another example, if a part of the adornment member 30 which is insertable through the opening 22 of the main body 20 is formed as substantially square or rectangular, the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33 of the adornment member 30 may correspond to regions of that square or rectangle. In other embodiments including further portions, such as a fourth portion and a fifth portion for example, further portions may also correspond to regions of a single part of the adornment member 30. For example, if a part of the adornment member 30 which is insertable through the opening 22 of the main body 20 is formed as substantially circular or elliptical, the further portions, in addition to the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33 of the adornment member 30 may correspond to regions of that circle or ellipsis. In another example, if a part of the adornment member 30 which is insertable through the opening 22 of the main body 20 is formed as substantially square or rectangular, the further portions, in addition to the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33 of the adornment member 30 may correspond to regions of that square or rectangle.
[0039] In embodiments, the adornment member 30 may include an adornment part 38 which may be releasably connectable to the remainder of the adornment member 30. Advantageously, this allows an adornment part 38 to be removed from the adornment member 30 and a different adornment part 38 to be connected to it. The adornment part 38 may be directly connected to the first portion 31 of the adornment member 30, or it may be connected to the first portion 31 by an intermediate portion 34, as shown in figure 1. The adornment part 38 may be connected to the intermediate portion by the use of a fastener such as, but not limited to, a screw, a bolt or a rivet, or it may include a protrusion configured to engage with a nut, clamp, plastic snap fit or any other appropriate means provided on the intermediate member 34.
[0040] The adornment device 10 includes a biasing member 40 for urging the adornment member 30, when the first and second portions 31, 32 are at least partially inserted through the opening 22, away from the main body 20. In embodiments, the biasing member 40 may be a spring, or may be formed of a plurality of springs. Alternatively, the biasing member 40 may be made from a resilient material such as a rubber material, a foam material or any other appropriate foam material. In the present embodiment, the biasing member 40 is positioned within the cavity 24 of the main body 20. However, in other embodiments, the biasing member 40 may be positioned on the adornment member 30 so that, in use, it is positioned between the portions of the adornment member 30 which are inserted into the cavity 24 and a surface of the cavity 24 which is positioned at or close to the second end 20b of the main body 20.
[0041] In embodiments, the main body 20 may include at least one locating member 42 positioned within the cavity 24, for at least partially inhibiting movement of the biasing member 40 relative to the main body 20. The locating member 42 may be formed as an integral part of the main body 20, or it may be connected to or otherwise fixed relative to the main body 20. As shown in figure 5, the locating member 42 is positioned on a surface of the cavity 24 which is at or close to the second end 20b of the main body 20, and it extends in a direction substantially towards the first end 20a of the main body 20. As shown in figure 3b, the locating member 42 is configured to allow a part of a spring to surround it such that lateral movement of the spring is prevented. The number of locating members 42 positioned within the cavity 24 may correspond to the number of springs positioned within the cavity 24. In embodiments, the adornment device 10 may also include an engagement member 44. The engagement member 44 may be positioned between the adornment member 30 and the biasing member 40, and preferably may engage with a portion of the adornment member 30.
[0042] Use of the adornment device 10 will now be described by way of example. As described above, the adornment member 30 is rotationally moveable relative to the main body 20. In use, the adornment member 30 is rotationally moveable between a locked condition and an unlocked condition. In the locked condition, as shown in figure 4b, when the first and second portions 31, 32 are inserted into the cavity 24, the biasing member 40 urges a part of the second portion 32 of the adornment member 30 into engagement with a surface 25a of the cavity 24 such that the adornment member 30 is held in a substantially fixed position relative to the main body 20, i.e., the adornment member 30 is connected to the main body 20. In embodiments including a third portion 33, the biasing member 40 also urges a part of the third portion 33 of the adornment member 30 into engagement with the interior surface 25a of the end wall 25 of the main body 20. In the unlocked condition, the adornment member 30 is urged away from the main body 20 such that the first and second portions 31, 32 of the adornment member 30 are urged at least partially through the opening 22 of the main body 20. In embodiments including a third portion 33, the biasing member 40 also urges the third portion at least partially through the opening 22. In the unlocked condition, the adornment member 30 is disconnectable from the main body 20 such that it may be removed from the main body 20 by a user.
[0043] In embodiments, the opening 22 of the main body 20 may include a first opening portion 22a and a second opening portion 22b. In embodiments wherein the adornment member 30 includes a third portion 33, the opening 22 may also include a third opening portion 22c. In embodiments wherein the adornment member 30 includes further portions in addition to the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33, the opening 22 may also include further opening portions in addition to the first, second and third opening portions 22a, 22b, 22c, as required. In use, the first portion 31 of the adornment member 30 may be insertable through the first opening portion 22a, and the first opening portion 22a may be shaped such that it corresponds substantially to the shape of the first portion 31 of the adornment member 30, whilst allowing the first portion 31 to pass through it. The second portion 32 of the adornment member may be insertable through the second opening portion 22b, and the second opening portion 22b may be shaped such that it corresponds substantially to the shape of the second portion 32 of the adornment member 30, whilst allowing the second portion 32 to pass through it. As shown in figure 6a, the second opening portion 22b may extend away from the first opening portion 22a and substantially radially away from the elongate axis X about which the adornment member 30 rotates.
[0044] In use, once the first and second portions 31, 32 of the adornment member 30 are inserted into the cavity 24, the adornment member 30 may be rotated into the locked condition such that the second portion 32 is no longer substantially aligned with respect to the second portion 22b of the opening 22. In the locked condition, the adornment member 30 is urged by the biasing member 40 such that the second portion 32 engages with a part of the interior surface 25a of the end wall 25 which is adjacent the periphery of the first portion 22a of the opening 22 of the main body 20.
[0045] In embodiments wherein the adornment member 30 includes a third portion 33, the opening 22 of the main body 20 may include a third opening portion 22c. The third opening portion 22c may be shaped such that it corresponds substantially to the shape of the third portion 33 of the adornment member 30, whilst allowing the third portion 33 to pass through it. As shown in figure 6a, the third opening portion 22c may extend away from the first opening portion 22a and substantially radially away from the elongate axis X about which the adornment member 30 rotates. Similar to the second portion 32, as the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33 are inserted into the cavity 24, the adornment member 30 may be rotated into the locked condition such that the third portion 33 is no longer substantially aligned with respect to the third portion 22c of the opening 22 and the biasing member 40 urges the adornment member 30 such that the third portion 33 engages with a part of the interior surface 25a of the end wall 25 which is adjacent the periphery of the first portion 22a of the opening 22 of the main body 20. In embodiments, the position of the third opening portion 22c relative to the second opening portion 22b may correspond to the position of the third portion 33 of the adornment member 30 relative to the second portion 32.
[0046] In embodiments wherein the adornment device 10 includes an engagement member 44, when the adornment member 30 is in the locked condition, the second portion 32 and third portion 33, and any further portions (if included on the adornment member 30) are sandwiched between the engagement member 44 and the interior surface 25a of the end wall 25 of which the second and third portions 32, 33 may engage with.
[0047] Advantageously, the rotational movement of the adornment member 30 between locked and unlocked conditions means that an adornment member 30 which is connected to the main body 20 in the locked condition may be removed from the main body 20 when the adornment member 30 is in the unlocked condition. This enables the user of the device 10 to remove the adornment member 30, and replace it with a different adornment member 30. This thus enables the owner of an article to which the adornment device 10 is connected to alter the aesthetics of the article, or to replace a damaged adornment member 30 without having to modify the article.
[0048] The adornment device 10 may also include an abutment member 50 for limiting the amount of relative rotation of the adornment member 30 about the axis X relative to the main body 20. In embodiments, the abutment member 50 may be positioned within the cavity 24 of the main body 20. The abutment member 50 may be formed as an integral part of the main body 20, or it may be formed as a separate component which may be connected to or positioned within the cavity 24 of the main body 20.
[0049] In use of the device 10, the abutment member 50 may be positioned within the cavity 24 such that as the adornment member 30 is rotated relative to the main body 20 a part of the second portion 32 of the adornment member 30 may be brought into direct contact with a part of the abutment member to prevent continued rotation of the adornment member 30 in that rotational direction. In embodiments, the abutment member 50 may be positioned such that when the adornment member 30 is in the locked condition the second portion 32 abuts a part of the abutment member 50 or is positioned close to it, or adjacent it.
[0050] In embodiments wherein the adornment member 30 includes a third portion 33, the adornment device 10 may include a further abutment member 52 positioned within the cavity 24 of the main body 20. In use of the device 10, the further abutment member 52 may be positioned within the cavity 24 such that as the adornment member 30 is rotated relative to the main body 20 a part of the third portion 32 of the adornment member 30 may be brought into direct contact with a part of the further abutment member 52 to prevent continued rotation of the adornment member 30 in that rotational direction. In embodiments, the further abutment member 52 may be positioned such that when the adornment member 30 is in the locked condition the third portion 33 abuts a part of the further abutment member 52 or is positioned close to it, or adjacent it.
[0051] However, it should be appreciated that in embodiment including a third portion 33, or further portions, a further abutment member 52 is not necessary to limit rotation of the adornment member 30 relative to the main body 20 as the abutment member 50 may be configured such that it either the second or third portion 32, 33, or any further portion, abuts a part of the abutment member 50 or is positioned close to it, or adjacent it when the adornment member 30 is in the locked condition.
[0052] In embodiments, the abutment member 50 and further abutment member 52 may be formed as integrally with the main body 20, or they may formed as a single abutment member assembly 500 which may be positioned within the cavity 24 of the main body 20. In other embodiments, the abutment member 50 and further abutment member 52 may be provided as separate components which may be individually positioned within the cavity 24. In yet further embodiments, the adornment device 10 may include more than two abutment members 50, 52.
[0053] The abutment member 50 and further abutment member 52 may ensure that when the adornment member 30 is in a locked condition, the rotational alignment between the adornment member 30 and the main body 20 may be limited. Advantageously, this may prevent a user of the device 10 from rotating the adornment member 30 such that the second portion 32 is rotated back into alignment with the second opening portion 22b. In addition, for adornments where the rotational alignment of the adornment relative to the article is important for aesthetic or functional reasons, the abutment members 50, 52 may assist the user in correctly aligning the adornment.
[0054] In embodiments, the adornment device 10 may also include a recess 60. The recess 60 may be formed on part of the main body 20. The recess 60 may be positioned on a portion of the interior surface 25a of the end wall 25 which is adjacent the periphery of the first opening portion 22a of the opening 22. As shown in figure 8b, when the adornment member 30 is in the locked condition, a part of the second portion 32 of the adornment member 30 may engage with the recess 60. The recess 60 may be shaped so that it corresponds substantially to the shape of the part of the second portion 32 with which it engages.
[0055] In embodiments wherein the adornment member 30 includes a third portion 33, the adornment device 10 may include a further recess 62. The further recess 62 may be formed on part of the main body 20. The further recess 62 may be positioned on a portion of the interior surface 25a of the end wall 25 which is adjacent the periphery of the first opening portion 22a of the opening 22. As shown in figure 8b, when the adornment member 30 is in the locked condition, a part of the third portion 33 of the adornment member 30 may engage with the further recess 62. The further recess 62 may be shaped so that it corresponds substantially to the shape of the part of the third portion 33 with which it engages. In embodiments, the position of the further recess 62 relative to the recess 60 may correspond substantially to the position of the third portion 33 of the adornment member 30 relative to the second portion 32. In embodiments wherein the adornment member 30 includes further portions in addition to the first, second and third portions 31, 32, 33, the device 10 may include further recesses as required.
[0056] The recess 60 and further recess 62, and any further recesses, may ensure that when the adornment member 30 is in a locked condition, the rotational alignment between the adornment member 30 and the main body 20 may be precisely selected. As the second portion 32 may be urged into the recess 60 by the biasing member 40 when the adornment member 30 is in the locked condition, rotational movement of the adornment member 30 may be substantially limited or prevented. This may serve to prevent the adornment member 30 being inadvertently moved relative to the main body 20 during use of the article, and may also provide for precise alignment member 30 relative to the main body 20 when rotational alignment is important for aesthetic or functional reasons.
[0057] In embodiments, the engagement member 44 may be shaped such that it is of a similar shape or profile to that of a part of the main body 20, such as the shape or profile of the cavity 24. With reference to the figures, in embodiments the main body 20 may be substantially circular in shape. The engagement member 44 may also be substantially circular in shape, and may be formed such that it resembles a disc or flat plate. The engagement member 44 is shaped and sized such that it may fit within, and may be moveable within, the cavity 24 of the main body 20. In other embodiments, the engagement member 44 may be formed such that it may include at least one alignment portion 70a, as shown in figures 9a and 9b. Such an engagement member 44 may be used in a device 10 having any of the features described above. In embodiments, it may include any number of alignment portions 70a. In embodiments, the engagement member 44 may include a second alignment portion 70b, a third alignment portion 70c and a fourth alignment portion 70d, as shown in figures 9a and 9b, and it should be understood that the engagement member 44 may further include additional alignment portions to those described. In embodiments of an engagement member 44 including multiple alignment portions, the alignment portion 70a may be referred to as a first alignment portion 70a.
[0058] As shown in figures 9a and 9b, the alignment portion 70a, i.e., the first alignment portion 70a, and second, third and fourth alignment portions 70b, 70c, 70d, and any further alignment portions, may be positioned adjacent to the periphery of the engagement member 44. The configuration of the first alignment portion 70a will be described by way of example. It should be understood that the second, third and fourth alignment portions 70b, 70c, 70d, may each be configured substantially similar to the first alignment portion 70a, or may be configured differently to the first alignment portion 70a. In addition, it should be understood that the second, third and fourth alignment portions 70b, 70c, 70d may each include all of the features, or only a selection of the features, of the first alignment portion 70a.
[0059] As shown in figure 9a, the alignment portion 70a, i.e., first alignment portion 70a, may include a first alignment part 71. The first alignment part 71 may protrude from the periphery of the engagement member 44, and at least a portion of it may protrude substantially radially away from the axis X. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the first alignment part 71 may extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or substantially perpendicular to, the elongate axis X.
[0060] The first alignment part 71 may be formed having any appropriate shape or profile. In embodiments, at least a portion of the first alignment part 71 may have a substantially rounded or semi-circular shape or profile, which may be positioned at an end 71a of the first alignment part 71 which is furthest from the axis X. In other embodiments, the end 71a may have a shape or profile which is not substantially rounded or semi-circular. For example, it may be substantially square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, or any other suitable profile. The shape or profile of the first alignment part 71 may have at least one straight edge which extends between the periphery of the engagement member 44 and the end 71a of the first alignment part 71. In other embodiments, the first alignment part 71 may include no straight edges. In embodiments, the shape or profile of the first alignment part 71 may be symmetrical about at least one axis or plane positioned relative to the first alignment part 71, or it may not be symmetrical about any axis or plane.
[0061] In embodiments, the alignment portion 70a, i.e., first alignment portion 70a, may also include a second alignment part 72. The second alignment part 72 may be formed as recess which extends from the periphery of the engagement member 44, and at least a portion of it may extend substantially radially towards the axis X. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the second alignment part 72 may extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to, or substantially perpendicular to, the elongate axis X.
[0062] The second alignment part 72 may be formed having any appropriate shape or profile. In embodiments, at least a portion of the second alignment part 72 have a substantially square or rectangular shape or profile. In embodiments, at least a portion of the second alignment part 72 may be substantially curved or round, such as a rounded corner of a square or rectangle as shown in figures 9a and 9b. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the second alignment part 72 may have a shape or profile which is not substantially square or rectangular. For example, it may be substantially round, semi-circular, elliptical, trapezoidal, triangular, or any other suitable profile. In embodiments, the shape or profile of the second alignment part 72 may be symmetrical about at least one axis or plane positioned relative to the second alignment part 72, or it may not be symmetrical about any axis or plane.
[0063] As shown in figures 9a and 9b, in embodiments the alignment portion 70a, i.e., the first alignment portion 70a, may include one first alignment part 71 and two second alignment parts 72, with each second alignment part 72 positioned on either side of the first alignment part 71. It should be understood that the alignment portion 70a may be configured to have a different number of first and second alignment parts 71, 72, including more than two of each first and second alignment parts 71, 72. In addition, multiple first and second alignment parts 71, 72 may be provided which each differ in shape, profile, dimensions, relative position, or any other characteristic.
[0064] In embodiments including more than one alignment portion 70a, such as embodiments including a first, second, third and fourth alignment portion 70a-70d, each alignment portion 70a-70d may be substantially similar or identical in configuration. In other embodiments, at least one alignment portion 70a-70d may differ in configuration relative to the remaining alignment portions 70a-70d. In some embodiments, each alignment portion 70a-70d may be configured differently. In the embodiment shown in figures 9a and 9b, the engagement member 44 includes first and second alignment portions 70a, 70b which are substantially similar or identical in configuration and positioned generally opposite each other, and additionally includes third and fourth alignment portions 70c, 70d which are substantially similar or identical in configuration with respect to each other and positioned generally opposite each other and generally perpendicularly with respect to the first and second alignment portions 70a, 70b, but differ in configuration with respect to the first and second alignment portions 70a, 70b. It should be understood that the alignment portions 70a-70d, and any further alignment portions, can be configured and arranged on the engagement member 44 with any possible permutation or combination of features described above.
[0065] As shown in figure 10, the main body 20 may also include at least one alignment portion 80a, which may be a first alignment portion 80a, and may also include any number of additional alignment portions such as a second alignment portion 80b, a third alignment portion 80c, and a fourth alignment portion 80d. In embodiments, the main body 20 may include further alignment portions. Such a main body 20 may be used in a device 10 having any of the features described above. As shown in figure 10, the alignment portions 80a-80d are provided within the cavity 24 of the main body 20, and may be configured to have a shape or profile which corresponds substantially to the shape or profile of a corresponding alignment portion 70a-70d of the engagement member 44.
[0066] The configuration of the first alignment portion 80a of the main body 20 will be described by way of example. It should be understood that the second, third and fourth alignment portions 80b, 80c, 80d, may each be configured substantially similar to the first alignment portion 80a, or may be configured differently to the first alignment portion 80a. In addition, it should be understood that the second, third and fourth alignment portions 80b, 80c, 80d may each include all of the features, or only a selection of the features, of the first alignment portion 80a.
[0067] As shown in figure 10, the alignment portion 80a of the main body 20, i.e., first alignment portion 80a, may include a first alignment part 81. The shape of the first alignment part 81 of the main body 20 conform substantially to the shape or profile of the first alignment part 71 of the engagement member 44 as described above, and may extend substantially radially away from the axis X. For example, in some embodiments, the shape or profile of the first alignment part 81 of the first alignment portion 80a of the main body 20 may be formed such that, in use of the device 10, a first alignment part 71 of the alignment portion 70a may be accommodated within the with first alignment portion 80a of the main body 20. It should be understood that the shape or profile of the first alignment part 81 of the first alignment portion 80a of the main body 20 does not need to be identical to the shape or profile of the first alignment part 71 of the first alignment portion 70a of the engagement member 44. For instance, in some embodiments, the first alignment part 81 of the main body 20 may be substantially oversized with respect to a corresponding first alignment part 71 of the engagement member 44, and at least a part of the shape or profile of the first alignment part 81 of the main body 20 may be of a different shape relative to a corresponding first alignment part 71. For example, in embodiments, a substantially square or rectangular first alignment part 81 of the main body 20 may be able to accommodate a substantially circular or rounded part of a corresponding first alignment part 71 of the engagement member 44.
[0068] In embodiments, the shape or profile of the first alignment part 81 of the main body 20 may extend through at least a portion of the main body 20, for instance, through a part of the peripheral wall 26, in a direction which is substantially parallel to the axis X, such that it may form a groove or channel within the cavity 24 of the main body 20.
[0069] In embodiments, the alignment portion 80a, i.e., first alignment portion 80a, of the main body 20 may also include a second alignment part 82. The shape of the second alignment part 82 of the main body 20 conform substantially to the shape or profile of the second alignment part 72 of the engagement member 44 as described above, and may extend substantially radially towards the axis X. For example, in some embodiments, the shape or profile of the second alignment part 82 of the first alignment portion 80a of the main body 20 may be formed such that, in use of the device 10, it may be accommodated within a second alignment part 72 of the alignment portion 70a of the engagement member 44. It should be understood that the shape or profile of the second alignment part 82 of the first alignment portion 80a of the main body 20 does not need to be identical to the shape or profile of the second alignment part 71 of the first alignment portion 70a of the engagement member 44. For instance, in some embodiments, the second alignment part 82 of the main body 20 may be substantially undersized by any appropriate amount with respect to a corresponding second alignment part 72 of the engagement member 44. In embodiments, at least a part of the shape or profile of the second alignment part 82 of the main body 20 may be of a different shape relative to a corresponding second alignment part 72 of the engagement member 20. For example, in embodiments, a substantially circular or rounded second alignment part 82 of the main body 20 may be accommodated within a substantially square or rectangular part of a corresponding second alignment part 82 of the engagement member 44.
[0070] In embodiments, the shape or profile of the first alignment part 81 of the main body 20 may extend across at least a portion of the main body 20, for instance, forming a part of the peripheral wall 26, in a direction which is substantially parallel to the axis X, such that it may form a protrusion or ridge within the cavity 24 of the main body 20.
[0071] In use of the device 10, the provision of at least one alignment portion 70a on the engagement member 44 and a corresponding at least one alignment portion 80a on the main body 20 may advantageously improve the alignment of the engagement member 44 with respect to the main body 20, for instance whilst the engagement member 44 is moving within the cavity 24 when the adornment member 30 is being inserted, and also whilst the engagement member 44 is holding the adornment member 30 in a locked condition. The cooperation or interaction of an alignment portion 70a of the engagement member 44 with a corresponding alignment portion 80a of the main body 20 may prevent, or minimise the degree to which, the engagement member 44 may rotate about the axis X when being actuated, and may prevent, or minimise the degree to which, the engagement member 44 may tilt and/or be subject to undesired lateral movement with respect to the main body 20. As such, wear or damage of the engagement member 44, main body 20, and components of the device such as, but not limited to a biasing member 40, adornment member 30, and abutment member 50 of the device 10 may be reduced or substantially eliminated. In addition, minimising or preventing the possibility of the engagement member 44 tilting with respect to the main body 20 may assist in ensuring that an adornment member 30 which is held in a locked position may also be prevented from tilting with respect to the main body 20, which may be beneficial in prevent wear or damage to the adornment member 30, or any part of the device 10, and may improve the aesthetic value of the article to which the device 10 is to be used with.
[0072] When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.
[0073] The invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein.
1. An adornment device including:
a main body connectable to or connected to an article, the main body including a peripheral wall and an end wall which together define a cavity therein, said end wall including an opening in communication with the cavity and an interior surface which faces the article;
an adornment member having first and second portions insertable through the opening and into the cavity of the main body;
a biasing member for urging the adornment member away from the main body;
wherein the adornment member is rotationally moveable relative to the main body between a locked condition and an unlocked condition, and wherein in the locked condition the biasing member urges a part of the second portion into engagement with the interior surface of the end wall such that the adornment member is held relative to the main body, and wherein in the unlocked condition the adornment member is disconnectable from the main body.
2. An adornment device according to claim 1 wherein the adornment member is rotationally
moveable about an elongate axis X, and wherein the second portion of the adornment
member extends in a direction substantially radially away from the axis X.
3. An adornment device according to any preceding claim including an abutment member
for limiting the amount of relative rotation of the adornment member relative to the
main body, preferably wherein the abutment member is positioned within the cavity
of the main body.
4. An adornment device according to claim 3 wherein when the adornment member is in the
locked condition the second portion of the adornment member abuts a part of the abutment
member or is positioned adjacent it.
5. An adornment device according to any preceding claim wherein the opening of the main
body includes a first opening portion through which the first portion of the adornment
member is insertable, and a second opening portion through which the second portion
of the adornment member is insertable, preferably wherein the second opening portion
extends away from the first opening portion, substantially radially away from a rotational
axis of the adornment member.
6. An adornment device according to any preceding claim wherein in the locked condition
the part of the interior surface of the end wall with which the second portion of
the adornment member engages is positioned adjacent a periphery of the first portion
of the opening.
7. An adornment device according to claim 5 or claim 6 wherein the adornment member includes
a third portion, and wherein the opening includes a third opening portion through
which the third portion of the adornment member is insertable, and wherein in the
locked condition the third portion of the adornment member is in engagement with a
part of the interior surface of the end wall which is adjacent the periphery of the
first portion of the opening.
8. An adornment device according to claim 7, when dependent directly or indirectly on
any of claims 3 or 4, including a further abutment member, and wherein when the adornment
member is in the locked condition the third portion of the adornment member abuts
a part of the further abutment member or is positioned adjacent to it.
9. An adornment device according to claim 7 or 8 wherein the third portion of the adornment
member is positioned generally opposite the second portion of the adornment member,
preferably wherein the third portion is positioned diametrically opposite the second
portion.
10. An adornment device according to any of claims 5 to 9 wherein the main body includes
a recess positioned on the interior surface of the end wall and adjacent the periphery
of the first portion of the opening, preferably wherein when in the locked condition
a part of the second portion of the adornment member engages with the recess.
11. An adornment device according to claim 10, when dependent directly or indirectly on
any of claims 7 to 9, including a further recess positioned on the interior surface
of the end wall and adjacent the periphery of the first portion of the opening, and
wherein when in the locked condition a part of the third portion of the adornment
member engages with the further recess.
12. An adornment device according to any preceding claim wherein the biasing member is
positioned within the cavity of the main body, preferably wherein the adornment device
further includes an engagement member positioned between the adornment member and
the biasing member, and preferably wherein the engagement member engages with a portion
of the adornment member, most preferably wherein in the locked condition the second
portion, and preferably the third portion, of the adornment member is/are sandwiched
between the engagement member and the surface(s) of the cavity of the main body.
13. An adornment device according to any preceding claim wherein the biasing member is
or includes a spring or is made from a resilient material, and / or wherein the biasing
member is integrally formed with the main body.
14. An adornment device according to any preceding claim wherein the adornment member
includes an adornment part which is releasably connectable to a remainder of the adornment
member.
15. An article including an adornment device according to any preceding claim, preferably
wherein the article is one of a luggage item, a bag, a handbag, a purse, a rucksack,
a pencil case, a makeup bag, a clothing item, a wearable accessory, a belt, a footwear
item, a pet clothing item, a pet accessory item, a pet collar, a pet leash or a pet
coat.