FLEXIBLE, PATTERNED, AND CUSTOMIZABLE ARTICLES

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application relates to provisional patent application U.S. Ser. No. 63/711,261, filed Oct. 24, 2024 and 63/772,892, filed Mar. 17, 2025. The provisional patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference in its entireties herein, including without limitation: the specification, claims, and abstract, as well as any figures, tables, appendices, or drawings thereof.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to customizable, wearable articles and/or corresponding methods of designing and wearing the same, having applications in at least the apparel manufacturing, toys & games industries, and the arts, entertainment & recreation industries. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to flexible, hex-grid patterned wearable objects that can be decorated and customized with charms and string.

BACKGROUND

The background description provided herein gives context for the present disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art.

Children love toys, games, and activities. For children, toys, games, and activities are more than just fun. Most provide at least some opportunity for children to learn. The best toys engage the senses and spark imaginations. The best activities encourage children to interact with others and teach teamwork.

From a very early age, children are eager to learn more about the world around them. Every new shape, color, texture, taste, and sound presents an opportunity to learn more. Parents quickly identify giving their children toys that are safe and stimulating will help their children discover their senses. Rattles and toys that make music are favorites of infants. Toys with contrasting colors are fascinating to babies and stimulate their developing vision. As they grow, infants can use toys to explore object permanence and cause and effect relationships. They also need objects such as blocks to help them build motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

Toddlers can play with a wider variety of toys than infants. Toddlers may still enjoy some of the toys they played with as babies, however they also need that are designed with their increased capability to learn in mind. Even the same blocks they played with previously can provide them with new and different educational opportunities as their knowledge expands. Shape sorters are great for toddlers. They teach them how to match similar items and provide parents the opportunity to teach them the names of the shapes. Lego® blocks, for example, provide an opportunity to learn more about colors and symmetry developing a child's motor skills.

When children reach schooling age, parents and teachers shift their focus from helping children discover their senses to developing a child's aptitude for lingual (e.g., written and spoken), numeric, memorial, and social skills. There are a lot of toys that encourage this type of learning, from simple alphabet puzzles to high-tech electronic gadgets. These toys help give children a head start by introducing them to the things they will be learning in school. Kids who are in school can supplement their learning with recreational and educational toys. Giving children the opportunity to have fun while practicing the things they are learning in school will increase their retention of those things.

The act of collecting toys offers an opportunity for a child to make an emotional connection with their toys. Not surprisingly, the value a child assigns to any given collection is not monetary but sentimental. Thus, some connections are stronger than others. The collections allow children to relive previous experiences and connect themselves to a period or to a time they feel strongly about. This in effect helps ease insecurity and anxiety and allows the past to continue to exist in the present. Some children collect for the thrill of the hunt. For these children, collecting is a quest, and may develop into a lifelong pursuit which can never be completed. When children collect, they experiment with arranging, organizing, and presenting a part of the world which may serve to provide a safety zone, a place of refuge where fears are calmed and insecurity is managed. Motives are not mutually exclusive, rather, different motives combine for each collector for a multitude of reasons.

It is often a challenge for toy developers to design a collection which can be easily transported from place to place while the child is not playing with the toy collection, stimulate the child's senses while the child is playing with the toy collection, and still challenge the child's aptitude for continued learning. Designing toys of the collection such that they can designed and redesigned. However, these toy collections are often limited in their ability to stimulate a child's senses while the child is playing with the toy collection and to challenge the child's aptitude for continued learning. Some of these toy collections do not offer any social benefits or provide very limited social benefits, such as Beanie Babies® (Ty Inc., Oak Brook, Illinois, U.S.A.). These collections have limited practical purposes outside of the art of collecting them.

It is often a challenge for creators of games and activities to garner the attention of a child while still creating a strong emotional connection thereto. Often times, solutions in the art rely solely on the use of screen-time. Think video games, phone apps, and the like. It is however known children who spend too much time with screen-time activities score lower on language and thinking tests, and in extreme cases, screen-time can cause thinning of the brain's cortex, the area of the brain related to critical thinking and reasoning. It is thus essential that children remain engaged in outdoor activities, such as playing with toys to foster imagination and creativity, exploring, and playing with other children to develop appropriate social skills.

Thus, there exists a need in the art for flexible, patterned, and customizable bands which address these issues and do not rely on the use of expensive, high-tech electronic gadgets.

SUMMARY

The following objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/or embodiments are not exhaustive and do not limit the overall disclosure. No single embodiment need provide each and every object, feature, or advantage. Any of the objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/or embodiments disclosed herein can be integrated with one another, either in full or in part.

It is a primary object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure to improve on or overcome the deficiencies in the art.

It is a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure to utilize hex-hole cells so as to form hex grid wearable objects.

It is still yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure to be able to peel off various shapes for the wearable objects from a silicone pad. A pre-cut silicone pad is particularly beneficial, but uncut pads are also envisioned, as they would allow for complete freedom to cut out a wearable object from any form.

It is still yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure to use decorations in addition to traditional charms, such as colored yarn or string.

It is still yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure to be able to form a wide variety of apparel using the bands other than just bracelets, such as necklaces, rings, belts, scarves, phone accessories, and backpack clips.

It is still yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure to provide a wide variety of charms, such as letter beads, gem beads, and stones.

It is still yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the present disclosure to be able to be able to decorate the flexible, patterned, and customizable bands with glitter.

The flexible, patterned, and customizable bands disclosed herein can be used in a wide variety of applications. For example, the flexible, patterned, and customizable bands can be built, worn, collected, traded among friends, taken apart and rebuilt, and used to identify or categorize groups of persons.

It is preferred the apparatus be safe, cost effective, and durable. For example, the flexible, patterned, and customizable bands can be adapted to resist excessive heat, static buildup, corrosion, and/or mechanical failures (e.g. cracking, crumbling, shearing, creeping) due to excessive impacts and/or prolonged exposure to tensile and/or compressive forces acting on the flexible, patterned, and customizable bands.

At least one embodiment disclosed herein comprises a distinct aesthetic appearance. Ornamental aspects included in such an embodiment can help capture a consumer's attention and/or identify a source of origin of a product being sold. Said ornamental aspects will not impede functionality of flexible, patterned, and customizable bands. For example, the aesthetic look of the bands are similar to the look of Crocs®, which has not yet been used for bracelets.

Methods can be practiced which facilitate use, manufacture, assembly, maintenance, and repair of the flexible, patterned, and customizable bands which accomplish some or all of the previously stated objectives.

The flexible, patterned, and customizable bands can be incorporated into systems or kits which accomplish some or all of the previously stated objectives.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a flexible and customizable band comprises an elongated thermoplastic rubber frame and a plurality of cells, a fastener comprising a first portion located at a first end of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame and a second portion located at a second end of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame, and a plurality of charms configured to occupy at least some of the plurality of cells.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame comprises ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame comprises silicone.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the first portion comprises a male fastener and the second portion comprises a female fastener.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the male fastener comprises an arrow-shaped end.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the female fastener comprises a slot.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the male fastener comprises a metallic prong.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the female fastener comprises a series of holes, each sized to allow the metallic prong to pass therethrough.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the fastener comprises a ratchet buckle.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the plurality of charms pop in and out of the plurality of cells.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the charms comprise an upper flange and a lower flange.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the upper flange and the lower flange comprise substantially identical shapes.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the upper flange and the lower flange are planar.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the upper flange and the lower flange are parallel to one another.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the upper flange and the lower flange are offset by a distance substantially identical to a thickness of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the plurality of charms comprise decorations.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the decorations comprise at least one gem.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the decorations comprise at least one tether

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the tether comprises string to be wrapped between the charms.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the decorations comprise at least one figurine.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the decorations comprise a plurality of beads.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the plurality of beads comprise at least one of a spherical dome, a heart, a star, a bow, a smiley face, or an ice cream swirl.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the decorations comprise letters.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the decorations comprise a combination of gems, beads, and letters.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, a charm holder, wherein a first cell of the charm holder is configured to receive a first charm from the plurality of charms, a second cell is configured to receive a second charm from the plurality of charms, and the first cell and the second cell are connected by a charm holder bridge.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, a watch configured to connect to the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame is positioned within a flexible sheet.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the flexible sheet includes a plurality of the flexible and customizable bands, wherein a first of the flexible and customizable bands include a single row of cells, a second of the flexible and customizable bands include a double row cells, and a third of the flexible and customizable bands include a triple row of cells.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the thermoplastic rubber sheet comprises a scented additive.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, perforations which allow for the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame to be peeled or torn from the flexible sheet.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, shapes positioned within the flexible sheet, and perforations surrounding the shapes which allow for the shapes to be peeled or torn from the flexible sheet.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, cells within the shapes of a same size and shape as the cells.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the flexible sheet includes a colored pattern on a surface of the flexible sheet.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the colored pattern comprises an art print.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, a shape of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame comprises a braid design.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, a shape of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame comprises a zig zag design.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, a shape of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame comprises a spiral design.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, a shape of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame comprises a wavey design.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame comprises a front portion that includes an increased number of cells with respect to an elongated portion of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the front portion is circular.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the front portion emulates a timepiece.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, a side portion on each side of the front portion that includes an increased number of cells with respect to an elongated portion of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame but a lesser number of cells than the front portion.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, an extended charm capable of connecting the flexible and customizable band to another flexible and customizable band.

According to some other aspects of the present disclosure, a method of customizing a bracelet comprises popping charms into an elongated frame of a hex-grid wearable object; and decorating the bracelet by tethering the charms with string.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the method further comprises peeling the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame from a larger flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the method further comprises fastening one end of the thermoplastic rubber frame to the other to form a loop.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the method further comprises wearing the bracelet.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the method further comprises the decorating further comprises applying glitter to the bracelet.

According to some other aspects of the present disclosure, a method of building a cradle bracelet, the method comprises designing an arrangement of charms, twisting string around said charms, and tightening the string to the stable arrangement of charms so that the cradle bracelet can be worn.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the method further comprises forming a word with the charms, wherein the charms are letter beads.

These and/or other objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/or embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art after reviewing the following brief and detailed descriptions of the drawings. The present disclosure encompasses (a) combinations of disclosed aspects and/or embodiments and/or (b) reasonable modifications not shown or described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

Several embodiments in which the present disclosure can be practiced are illustrated and described in detail, wherein like reference characters represent like components throughout the several views. The drawings are presented for exemplary purposes and may not be to scale unless otherwise indicated.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a thermoplastic rubber sheet with a hexagonal grid, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a hex grid wearable object, which in this instance is a first embodiment of a bracelet, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the hex grid wearable object of FIG. 2, with charms being popped therein, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the hex grid wearable object of FIG. 2, after charms have been popped therein, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows an illustrative flow chart for a method for removing the hex grid wearable object of FIG. 2 from a thermoplastic rubber sheet with a hexagonal grid, popping in charms, and customizing a design for a bracelet, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 shows several additional steps for the illustrative flow chart described with respect to FIG. 5, with emphasis on different types of hex grid wearable object. This method shows removing the hex grid wearable object from a thermoplastic rubber sheet with a hexagonal grid, popping in charms, customizing a design for the bracelet, fastening the bracelet to the user's wrist, and wearing the bracelet, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 shows an illustrative flow chart for a method for designing a cradle bracelet, twisting the bracelet, and tightening the bracelet, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 shows an illustrative flow chart for evidencing how flexible charms work, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 shows a multi-bead charm, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 shows a large bead in comparison to the originally sized base, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 shows molded beads, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 shows various band designs, including spiral, braid, zig-zag, and wavey designs, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 shows a multi-bead charm, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 shows two bands linked together via an extended charm, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 shows bands with various design patterns based on color, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 shows the implementation of artistic expressions on flexible sheets or canvases, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 shows an example wearable article, in this case a watch, that can be created using a flexible band, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 shows example shapes that can be printed into a larger flexible sheet, in this case butterflies, hearts, and the like, that can be created using a flexible band, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 19 shows examples of scented sheets and bands according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 shows packaging of a type of scented sheets and bands of FIG. 19 which can be packaged and advertised with images indicating their scents according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 shows similar packaging as FIG. 20 but of different scented sheets and bands from FIG. 19 which can be packaged and advertised with images indicating their scents according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

An artisan of ordinary skill in the art need not view, within isolated figure(s), the near infinite distinct combinations of features described in the following detailed description to facilitate an understanding of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is not to be limited to that described herein. Mechanical, electrical, chemical, procedural, and/or other changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. No features shown or described are essential to permit basic operation of the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated.

As shown in FIG. 1, a flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 comprises a frame 102 that further includes with empty cells 104, solid cells 106, and outer webbing 108. As will be described herein, the thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 can be modified to suit varying design preferences.

The flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 has an integrated hexagonal grid pattern. The flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 may be formed of a resilient thermoplastic rubber such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer or silicone, which provides flexibility, durability, and the ability to hold molded shapes (e.g., cells or perforations). In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 defines a lattice or frame 102 in which a multitude of hexagonally shaped apertures or empty cells 104 are arranged in a tessellated grid. The cells 104 are open through the thickness of the sheet, creating a patterned “honeycomb” structure. The cells are bounded by interconnected segments of material, an inner web, and the perimeter of the sheet may include an outer webbing 108 or border for structural support. In some regions of the sheet, certain cells can be left uncut or filled in, e.g., solid cells 106 to provide structural integrity or to form particular shapes/logos within the grid. For example, selective solid cells 106 can reinforce the sheet at critical points or delineate a decorative silhouette within the pattern.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the majority of cells, however, are open cells 104 that pass entirely through the sheet to reduce material weight and create the desired pattern. The overall result is a thin, flexible sheet 100 with a regular array of polygonal (e.g., hexagonal) openings.

Optionally, the flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 is impregnated or coated with a scented additive 112 to produce a fragranced article. For example, the sheet material may include a fragrance oil or other scent dispersed in the EVA or silicone matrix. This can impart a pleasant aroma, or functional scents such as insect repellent, to the bands once removed. In one non-limiting example, the fragrance can also be employed as a deodorizing screens made of fragranced EVA, or as to improve the sanitariness of the wearable object 200. The flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 can thus function as a scented canvas, releasing a mild fragrance when the band is worn, and this fragrance can be chosen and varied, described in further detail infra.

It is to be appreciated that the scent level in a wearable object 200 is adjusted to be pleasant and safe for personal use. The flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 can also include printed patterns or artwork on its surface, also discussed in further detail, infra, to enhance visual appeal.

FIG. 1 thus provides a foundation for said wearable objects, e.g., a base sheet that includes a hexagonal cell grid from which the inventive bands and shapes are derived. This sheet is sufficiently flexible to bend without cracking, resilient to return to flat form, and durable for repeated handling. The use of a thermoplastic rubber material ensures the sheet (and the wearable objects 200 derived from it, that can withstand mechanical stresses such as twisting, bending, and environmental factors, without failures such as tearing, crumbling, or excessive stretching. The flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 may be provided in a kit or product package, as discussed in further detail, infra, containing one or multiple sheets, each with pre-cut wearable items.

Additionally, as will be described in further detail, infra, the sheet 100 serves as a base material or precursor from which individual wearable bands and shapes are obtained. In particular, one or more hex grid wearable objects 200. The wearable objects 200 which are also referred to as flexible, patterned, and customizable bands. The wearable objects 200 are integrally formed within the sheet 100. Each wearable object 200 is essentially a strip or frame portion of the sheet that can be separated from the surrounding material. Thus, the outline of at least one such wearable object 200 can thus be defined within the sheet, for example, by partially cut lines or perforations around its perimeter. This can allow the wearable object's frame 202 and cells to be pre-formed as part of the sheet.

FIG. 2 shows a flexible, patterned, and customizable band 200 comprising an elongated thermoplastic rubber frame 202, a plurality of cells 204, and a fastener 206 comprising a first portion 207 and a second portion 208. The customizable band 200 further comprises a front portion 210A, and a side portion 210B. The customizable band 200 can be cut out from the flexible sheet 100 as shown FIG. 5 which will be further discussed herein.

FIG. 2 shows the standalone hex grid wearable band 200 after it has been removed from the sheet. In this first illustrated embodiment, the band 200 takes the form of a bracelet blank comprising an elongated flexible frame 202 and a plurality of hexagonal cells 204 distributed along its length. The frame 202 in this context is like the frame 102 of the sheet, but once separated has the distinct function of serving as the body of the wearable object. The band's frame 202 is elongated and relatively narrow, forming a strip with open cells 204 arranged in one or more rows.

The thermoplastic rubber frame 202 can comprise ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer. The thermoplastic rubber frame 202 can further comprise silicone in which silicone is added to the ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer to modify its properties. The thermoplastic rubber frame 202 can comprise solely silicone. Being made of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer and/or silicone provides the benefit of giving the hex grid wearable object 200 flexibility.

Structurally, the band's frame 202 is thin in cross-section, such as only a few millimeters thick. This can have the benefit of making the band 200 highly flexible in bending. A user can easily curve the band into a circular loop to wear it. The material's elasticity allows the fastener 206 to be secured without cracking. Because of the open cell pattern, the band 200 can also twist slightly to conform to the wrist. Despite this flexibility, the material (EVA, silicone, etc.) and the geometric reinforcement from the hexagonal lattice give the band sufficient strength to resist tearing under normal use. The many small cell walls distribute stress evenly, preventing any single point from experiencing excessive strain. The band 200 can also be waterproof and washable, and can be repeatedly flexed without fatigue.

In the particular non-limiting embodiment illustrated, the band has a single row of cells 204 running down its length, making it lightweight and very flexible. The cells 204 are like the cells 104 in the sheet. For example, hexagonal apertures that pass through the band. The cells 204 occupy a large portion of the band's area, leaving a lattice of thin connecting material. This “hex-grid” structure gives the band a distinctive patterned appearance and also allows for attachments (charms) as described below.

The cells 204 are all shown as hexagonally shaped, but could comprise an alternative shape such as triangles, squares, pentagons, heptagons, octagons, etc. The cells 204 provide the benefit of allowing objects to be placed therethrough at an angle where the polygon is longest and then rotated to be secured into a more permanent position. As a further result of use of the cells 204, the hex grid wearable band 200 is customizable and patterned.

At the opposite ends of the elongated frame 202, a fastener 206 is provided to allow the band 200 to be secured into a loop, and in the non-limiting example illustrated, to form a bracelet to be worn on the wrist. The fastener 206 comprises the first portion 207 at a first end of the customizable band 200 and a second portion 208 at a second end of the customizable band 200. As shown, the first portion 207 can comprise a male fastener 207 comprising an arrow-shaped end that fits into the second portion 208 which can comprise a female fastener 208, which comprises a slot. This provides the benefit of allowing the flexible, patterned, and customizable band 200 to be worn by a user.

In one example, the first portion 207 may have an arrow-shaped end that can be pushed through a correspondingly sized rectangular slot defining the second portion 208. Once inserted, the arrowhead of portion 207 catches on the far side of the slot 208, securing the loop.

The fastener 206 is not limited to being the male fastener 207 and the female fastener 208. Given by way of example and not of limitation, the fastener 206 can comprise a magnetic clasp in which the first portion 207 and the second portion 208 comprise a first magnet and a second magnet. The fastener 206 can comprise a snap button in which the first portion 207 and the second portion 208 comprise a first button half and a second button half. The fastener 206 can comprise complimentary hook and loop (Velcro®) material, a friction fit, a carabiner-style clip, a zipper, or a buckle with prong and a series of holes each sized to allow the prong to pass therethrough, a ratchet belt system or buckle that secures directly to opposite ends of the flexible, patterned, and customizable band 200 thus eliminating a need for additional parts in that it only requires hardware at one end of the flexible, patterned, and customizable band 200. The fastener 206 can further comprise a pin insertable through cells on both distal ends of the band 200, a twist-and-snap connector, or a self-tie system such as a first string for the first portion 207 and a second string for the second portion 208 used together to tie a knot, and so on.

Coming back to the non-limiting embodiment with the buckle with prong a series of holes, this version of the fastener 206 provides users that are familiar with traditional wrist-watches or traditional belt and/or bracelet buckles ease in understanding how to fasten the flexible, patterned, and customizable band 200. Optionally, there can be two or more prongs and a series of holes.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the fastener portions may comprise a metallic prong and holes. For example, portion 207 could include a small metal post or snap that can engage into one of multiple adjustment holes in portion 208, akin to a belt or watch strap. In yet another embodiment, the fastener 206 could be a ratchet buckle or clasp mechanism attached to the ends of frame 202, allowing the band to be tightened and locked, then released with a lever. All these fastener variations (arrow-and-slot, prong-and-hole, buckle, etc.) are considered within the scope of fastener 206 and provide options for users to comfortably and securely fasten the flexible band 200 around a body part, typically the wrist. The fastener components 207, 208 are preferably formed integrally with the band (e.g., molded from the same material) for simplicity and durability, but they may optionally incorporate embedded inserts, such as a metal prong for added strength as in one dependent claim. The modular nature of the fastener, with multiple holes or adjustable catch positions, also allows the band to fit a range of wrist sizes.

The non-limiting example of the band 200 of FIG. 2 can be conceptually divided into regions. For example, the elongated band has two side portions 210A and a front portion 210B. The side portions 210A are the lengths of the band that wrap around the sides of the wrist, when worn, and extend toward the fastening ends. The front portion 210B refers to the central region of the band, which would sit on the top of the wearer's wrist. In the illustrated first embodiment, the front portion 210B is generally of the same width as the rest of the band, because it carries the same single row of cells 204 as the side portions. Hence, the band can have a uniform appearance along its length.

In other non-limiting embodiments, the front portion can be enlarged or given a special shape. For instance, the front portion 210B may be made wider and circular, containing an increased number of cells relative to the side portions, in order to create a decorative focus or to accommodate an accessory (discussed in further detail, infra). The side portions 210A in those cases would taper from the wide front portion back to the normal band width. In all cases, “side portion” and “front portion” are terms used to distinguish different sections of the band's frame 202 for easier identification, but they do not imply that every band must have a visibly distinct front section. In some embodiments, the entire band 200 is substantially uniform, and the front 210B is simply the middle part of that continuous band.

In another non-limiting example, the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame 202 can further comprise the front portion 210B that includes an enlarged section with an increased number of cells 204 with respect to an elongated portion of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame 202. As shown, the front portion 210B can be circular similar to the timepiece on a watch. The side portion 210A is located on each side of the front portion 210B and includes an increased number of cells 204 with respect to an elongated portion of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame 202 but a lesser number of cells 204 than the front portion 210B.

As shown in FIGS. 3-4, a plurality of charms 300 are configured to occupy at least some of the plurality of cells 204, such as by popping them into place. FIGS. 3-4 emphasize separateness between the customizable band 200 and the plurality of charms 300 in which a charm 300 is insertable into, and removable from, the customizable band 200 via the cells 204. FIG. 3 emphasizes insertion 404 of the plurality of charms 300 into the customizable band 200 in which the charms 300 are separate and being inserted into the customizable band 200. FIG. 4 shows the plurality of charms 300 inserted into the cells 204 of the customizable band 200.

Each of the charms 300 can have a decoration 302 disposed thereon. The decoration 302 can be, by way of example and not of limitation and as shown in the figures, a shape, a figurine, a letter, a bead, a symbol, a gem, etc. The gem 302A is one such decoration 302 that is exemplified in FIGS. 3-6 & 8. The gem 302A can be round, to emulate the most popular shape for faceted gems, and the top choice for center stones in engagement rings; square, for example to emulate a princess cut; a rectangle (baguette cut), to emulate a classic and elegant shape for an accent stone; an oval, to accommodate many facets; a pear, which emulates the look of a teardrop; a marquise, which is a shape longer than it is wide; an emerald, to emphasize the trimmed corners and facets of the gem. The facets are a flat, smooth surface that is cut into the gem and arranged in a geometric pattern. Facets are responsible for the gem's sparkle and therefore can enhance the look of the hex grid wearable object 200. The gem 302A preferably has a brilliance by allowing light to enter, reflect, and refract through the gem 302A, though some gems 302 may be opaque. Notably, the gem 302A can be real, or a replica (e.g., made of plastic like materials).

FIGS. 3-6 & 8 illustrate the process of customizing the band 200 with user-selectable decorative elements, showing one or more charms 300 being inserted (or “popped”) into the hexagonal cells 204 of the band. The band 200 is prepared to receive charms: several charms 300 are aligned above empty cells 204, and arrows (action indicators) show them being pressed downward into the cells. Each charm 300 is a removable decoration sized and shaped to fit into a cell and be retained therein by a snap-fit. In one embodiment, the charms 300 have a two-flange structure: an upper flange 304 and a lower flange 306 on opposite sides of a narrower stem. The upper flange 304 is the decorative top portion of the charm, which may carry any aesthetic design (gem, figure, letter, etc. as discussed below). The lower flange 306 is a slightly larger base portion on the underside of the band that serves to lock the charm in place. The flange dimensions are chosen such that the upper flange 304 cannot pass through the cell opening 204 from above, and the lower flange 306 cannot pass through from below without significant force or stretching. The stem or middle section of the charm (between the flanges) passes through the cell and has a thickness or diameter slightly smaller than the cell's inscribed circle, allowing it to sit in the cell 204 without wobble. Preferably, the upper and lower flanges 304, 306 are substantially planar and parallel to each other, and are spaced apart by approximately the thickness of the band's frame 202. This means when a charm 300 is fully inserted, the upper flange 304 lies flush against the top surface of the band and the lower flange 306 lies flush against the bottom surface, effectively sandwiching the band's frame between them. In this way, each charm 300 is securely yet removably mounted in a cell 204 (“pop-in” attachment). The flanges 304, 306 are typically of identical shape (often circular or hexagonal disks slightly larger than the cell opening) to maximize retention area. They may be made of a slightly compressible material (like a soft plastic or rubber) or the band itself may flex. This allows the flange to deform and snap through the opening during insertion and removal. As shown by the arrows in FIG. 3, a user can push a charm 300 into a cell 204 from one side of the band until the lower flange 306 pops out on the far side, thereafter the charm is captively held. To remove a charm, the user can push it back out, for example, by pressing up on the lower flange from beneath the band. This pop-in/pop-out functionality, indicated by action 404 in the flow diagrams of FIG. 5, permits endless customization: charms can be added, removed, and rearranged on the band at will.

In FIG. 3, multiple charms 300 are depicted in the process of being inserted. These charms can have different types of decorations 302 on their upper flanges. As cannot be reiterated enough, the present disclosure envisions a wide variety of decorative charms, including but not limited to: gems 302A, e.g., faceted or polished pieces resembling gemstones or crystals; figurines 302C, small sculpted characters or objects (animals, symbols, etc.); beads 302E, ornamental shapes like spheres, hearts, stars, bows, smiley faces, ice cream swirls, and other playful forms (some additional examples appear in FIG. 11); letters and/or numbers 302F, alphanumeric characters allowing the wearer to spell words or initials on the band; and any other such suitable decorations, including but not limited to miniature toys or logos. Each charm 300 typically presents one such decoration 302 on its visible top side. The charms may be made of plastic, rubber, resin, metal, or any suitable material, as long as the flanges can perform the snap-fit function. In some embodiments, the charms 300, or at least their flanges, are made of a somewhat flexible material, similar to the band 200, so that they flex during insertion. This aspect is further illustrated in FIG. 8. For instance, a charm's flanges 304, 306 might temporarily compress or tilt to pass through the hexagonal opening, then spring back to flat shape once through. The insertion process does not require any special tools; it can be done by hand, making it easy for children or adults to customize their bracelet.

As FIG. 3 shows, user interaction with the band primarily involves “popping” charms in and out, and the hexagonal grid pattern of the band 200 and the specific charm structures disclosed herein are novel in the context of bracelets. The result is a toy or fashion accessory that encourages creativity. Users can choose which charms to insert and arrange them in any pattern or order along the band's cells. For example, one could insert colored gems 302A in alternating cells, or spell a name using letter charms 302F in sequential cells. The modularity is such that charms 300 from one band can be removed and swapped into another band, allowing for collecting and trading charms among friends. FIG. 3 highlights the structural and mechanical cooperation between the band 200 and the charms 300. Each cell 204 in the band is effectively a receptacle for a charm. The upper 304 and lower 306 flanges of the charms ensure a secure attachment by gripping the band from both sides, while allowing manual release when desired. This figure sets the stage for FIG. 4, which shows the band after the charms 300 have been inserted, and it provides the basis for understanding the subsequent methods of use, thereby customizing and decorating the band 200.

FIG. 4 shows the hex grid band 200 after several charms 300 have been popped into place, resulting in a fully customized bracelet. In this perspective view, the band is now populated with decorative elements occupying some of its hexagonal cells 204. Each inserted charm 300 sits snugly such that its upper flange 304, with decoration 302 being visible on the top side of the band, essentially filling the cell opening. The lower flange 306 is on the underside, not directly visible in top view(s), and is flush against the bottom surface of frame 202 as described). The cells 204 that are filled with charms appear as colorful or textured spots on the band, whereas any remaining empty cells 204 continue to appear as open hexagonal holes. A user may choose to fill all, most, or just a few of the available cells with charms.

FIG. 4 thus illustrates an example arrangement where some cells contain charms and others are left empty for contrast. The charms 300 can be arranged in whatever pattern the user desires. For instance, one region of the bracelet might have a cluster of gem charms 302A, while another region might spell out a word using letter charms 302F, e.g., the letters of the wearer's name. Because the charms are removable, these patterns are not permanent; they can be changed at any time.

While charms are a primary means of customization, the band 200 can also be decorated in other ways. For instance, glitter or paint can be applied to the band's surface as an extra embellishment. Glitter application is one of the optional steps in the method of FIG. 6, corresponding to an extension of the decorating step. Such enhancements are considered non-essential optional features, and are non limiting unless expressly claimed, and the bracelet is fully functional with or without additional surface decoration.

In summary, FIG. 4 shows the end result of the initial customization process: a flexible band 200 turned into a personalized bracelet by virtue of a plurality of installed charms 300. FIG. 4 underscores that the invention enables an end-user to transform a plain band into a decorated piece of jewelry easily and reversibly. The subsequent figures, particularly FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, outline the method steps for achieving this configuration, and even later figures introduce additional creative features, like string tethering and advanced charm configurations.

As shown in FIG. 5, the charms 300 comprise an upper flange 304 and a lower flange 306. Specifically, the charm 300 shown in FIG. 5 (and FIG. 3) includes a first upper flange 304A and a first lower flange 306A. The gem 302A is integrally and directly connected at their centers to two flanges 304A, 306A, each of which are shown shaped as hexagons. The lower flange 306 can be used to pass through an empty cell 204 and once through, rotated slightly so that it pops into place. The charm 300 is therefore secured within the hex grid wearable object 200 between the upper and lower flanges 304, 306. The first upper flange 304A and the first lower flange 306A comprise substantially identical, planar shapes; are parallel to one another; and are offset by a distance substantially identical to a thickness of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame 202.

As shown in FIGS. 5-6, the present disclosure discloses in a novel way the ability to form and wear a plurality of different types of hex grid wearable objects 200A, 200B, 200C, 200D, 200E, 200F from said thermoplastic rubber sheet 100, which can include more than one of the distinct hex grid wearable objects 200A, 200B, 200C, 200D, 200E, 200F. Specifically the hex grid wearable objects 200A, 200B, 200C, 200D, 200E, 200F include a first hex grid bracelet 200A, a second hex grid bracelet 200B, a third hex grid bracelet 200C, a fourth hex grid bracelet 200D, a fifth hex grid bracelet 200E, and a sixth hex grid bracelet 200F. The first hex grid bracelet 200A is the same as that shown in FIGS. 2-4. The second hex grid bracelet 200B is shaped more like that of a snowboard, surfboard, or skateboard with the fastener on distal ends thereof, in which an overall shape of the second hex grid bracelet excluding the fasteners comprises substantially a stadium shape. As shown, the second hex grid bracelet 200B includes three rows of cells 204, and ornamental holes at either end of the customizable band 200B.

The third hex grid bracelet 200C comprises an elongated and curvy design with bottlenecked ends in which two rows the cells 204 are offset rather than being aligned a length of the cells 204. The fourth hex grid bracelet 200D comprises a segmented pattern with elongated segments. Both of the fifth hex grid bracelet 200E and the sixth hex grid bracelet 200F comprise substantially a crown shape in which cells 204 extend to one side of the customizable band 200 adjacent the center rather than being placed on the center of the band 200. The fifth hex grid bracelet 200E differs from the sixth grid bracelet 200F in that the fifth comprises a wave-like pattern, and the sixth comprises a helical pattern.

A method 400 of customizing a bracelet begins by peeling 402 the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame 202 from the larger flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100. Perforations in the larger flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet 100 can make the peeling 402 easier. Then, the charms 300 are popped 404 into the elongated frame 202 of the hex-grid wearable object 200. The hex-grid wearable object 200 is then decorated 406. Decorating 406 can happen by looping a string around the charms 300. The hex-grid wearable object 200 can be further decorated 406 by applying glitter to the customizable band 200. Then, one end of the thermoplastic rubber frame 202 is fastened 408 by fastening the first fastener portion 207 of the fastener 206 to the second fastener portion 208 to form a closed loop, thereby allowing the user to wear 410 the hex grid wearable object 200.

Furthermore, FIG. 5 includes an additional form of the decoration 302, namely, the tether 302B. The tether 302B is a form of the decoration 302 that connects two charms 300 together. In other words, where the charm 300 takes the place of a single cell 204, two charms 300 can take up two cells 204 and can be connected via this form of decoration, the tether 302B. As shown in FIG. 5, the tether 302B comprises substantially an “S” shape with emphasized or exaggerated twirls at distal ends of the “S”, similar to lucia saffron buns from Sweden. While the tether 302B comprises this shape in FIG. 5, the tether is not limited to this shape but can comprise any suitable shape and/or material for connecting two or more charms 300. By way of example and not of limitation the tether 302B can comprise a string that ties together two charms 300 made of twine, fishline, rope, or otherwise. The tether 302B can comprise, a bridge design, an archway, etc. made of plastic molds. As such, as a portion of the methods described herein, a user can further decorate the customizable band 200 by tethering multiple charms 200 together with the tether 302B decoration 302.

As shown in FIG. 7, a method 500 of building a cradle bracelet which includes designing 502 an arrangement of charms 300, twisting 504 string 308 around said charms 300, and tightening 506 the string 308 to the stable arrangement of charms 300 so that the cradle bracelet can be worn. The charms 300 can be letter beads 310. The method 500 can therefore further include forming a word with the charms 300 to make the arrangement.

FIG. 8 shows a charm holder 312. The charm holder 312 can hold two charms 300, wherein a first charm is placed in the first cell 312A and a second charm is placed in the second cell 312B, the first cell 312A and the second cell 312B being connected by a charm holder bridge 314. In this regard, the first charm will be inserted into both the first cell 312A and the cell 204 of the customizable band 200, and the second charm will be inserted solely into the second cell 312B and not the cell 204. As such, the second charm will be free hanging from the customizable band 200 much like hair from a person's head, or a figurine hanging from a keychain. This provides for fun design which can be enhanced by making the second charm a figurine to dangle from the customizable band 200, which can be seen as the figurine 302C being a type of design 302 for the charms 300 (animal figurines are shown, namely both of a bear-shaped figurine and a unicorn-head figurine are shown in FIG. 9, but these are not meant to be limiting as any such figurines are possible including but not limited to celebrity faces, cartoon characters, pets, generally portrait style images such as showing a headshot of a loved one, etc.). Thus, second charm, or the figurine 302C, can hang or dangle from the customizable band 200 via the charm holder 312 attaching to another charm 300. Further, the same flexible (e.g., silicone) material can be used to make the bands or bracelets can also be used to make the holder for the charm holders.

FIG. 9 focuses on structural extensions of the charm concept: charms or accessory holders that involve multiple flanges and multiple cells. FIG. 9 shows a silicon bracelet material with hexagon holes cut into shapes 110. These shapes 110 can come from the flexible sheet 100 (which can be readily seen in FIG. 18 as will be discussed herein) and include a plurality of cells 111 therein. Thus, the cell 111 can originate from the cell 104 from the flexible sheet 100 (before a section is separated from the flexible sheet 100 into the shape 110). The charms 300 can fit into cells 111, and the shape 110 can be placed on the customizable band 200 creating a new layer of design, wherein at least one of the charms 300 is inserted into one of the cells 204 on the customizable band 200 such that the charm 300 is inserted through both the shape 110 and the customizable band 200, thus holding the shape 110 securely to the customizable band 200. As such, the charm 300 can fit into the center of the of the shape 110 so that it is held in place.

FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a multi-charm, e.g., a decorative charm assembly that occupies multiple adjacent cells of the band simultaneously. In this context, “multi-charm” means the charm either includes multiple decorative elements or connects multiple cell positions in one unit. FIG. 9 can be understood as showing how the system handles larger or compound charms that span more than one hexagon of the grid.

In one implementation depicted, a single charm 300 is provided with two upper flanges 304A, 304B and corresponding two lower flanges 306A, 306B. These flanges are arranged so that the charm can bridge two neighboring cells 204 at once. For example, imagine a charm shaped like a bar or an elongated figure that covers two hexagons on the band. Such a non-limiting embodiment two points of attachment to fit into two holes.

FIG. 9 shows this charm spanning two cell openings, with each set of flanges engaging a cell like a normal charm would, effectively linking those cells with one ornament. The mechanical insertion of this multi-flange charm is similar to a single charm, but done twice: one flange pair 304A/306A pops into one cell of the multi-charm, and the second pair 304B/306B pops into the adjacent cell of the band 200. The body of the charm between the two flanges holds the cells at a fixed distance, thus the charm cannot rotate or wobble easily. It is anchored in two spots. This provides greater stability and also allows for a larger decorative surface. For instance, the decoration 302 on top can be a figure that is too big to be securely fit in one cell, so spanning two cells is necessary. The hexagonal grid readily allows such multi-cell occupancy because many cells share sides; a double-cell charm might attach to two cells that share a common side, adjacent in the same row, or even diagonal neighbors if designed appropriately.

Another implementation in FIG. 9 is the use of a charm holder 312 accessory to create a multi-decorative effect. A charm holder 312 is essentially a frame or connector that holds two separate charms together. As depicted, the charm holder 312 has a first cell 312A and a second cell 312B. The cells 312A, 312B these are like pockets or receptacles in the holder where standard charms 300 can be inserted. The two cells 312A and 312B of the holder are joined by a bridge 314 of material. In use, the charm holder 312 itself attaches to the band by occupying two adjacent band cells. Much like the multi-flange charm described earlier, the holder can have its own flanges or otherwise be secured by the charms it carries. Once in place, the charm holder allows the user to insert a first charm into cell 312A and a second charm into cell 312B. Essentially, it is a way to lock two charms side by side as one unit on the band. For example, suppose a user wants to display two particular charms next to each other always (e.g., a particular color combination or two letters “AB” as a monogram), a charm holder 312 can ensure they stay together and in the correct order, even if the band flexes or if charms are swapped out elsewhere. FIG. 9 illustrates a charm holder bridging two cells with outline placeholders for two charms in it. The bridge 314 connecting the holder's cells keeps the relative spacing constant. The charm holder 312 is optional and not required for basic functioning of the band, but the charm holder 312 can further provide additional versatility.

Whether by an integrated multi-flange charm or by a two-charm holder, FIG. 9 demonstrates inventive features that allow multiple decorative elements to be combined and mounted on the band in a stable configuration. This is especially useful for creating larger designs or composite images using small charms. FIG. 9 effectively transforms the discrete grid of cells into a more continuous canvas when desired, by linking cells together. Importantly, these multi-cell attachments are achieved without any screws or permanent modifications. They still rely on the same pop-in principles, just applied in a coordinated way over adjacent cells.

FIG. 9 directly supports and expressly contemplates claim elements concerning extended charms and charm holders used on one band (though the extended charm 301 that links two separate bands is specifically shown in FIG. 14, discussed infra). It is to be appreciated that multi-bead or multi-cell charms are generally optional features: a user can perfectly well use only single-cell charms if they prefer. However, by providing for these, the ability to create wider decorative modules spanning cells is established, thereby offering new design possibilities: for example, creating a two-cell wide charm of a butterfly shape that looks more continuous on the band.

FIG. 10 shows larger beads 302D can be stamped with graphics, similar to smaller beads. A bead on band ratio is shown in the figure. According to some embodiments, the beads are just a fraction of an inch in diameter, and the original base of the larger bead 302D is approximately one inch in diameter. FIG. 10 additionally shows how the charms 300 can be alternated and varied in their placement on the customizable band 200, wherein the charm 300 may be placed, and then the empty cell 204 may be unfilled.

FIG. 10 shows that during manufacturing, deluxe or feature charms 300, like a big center charm on a bracelet, can be attached through the same attachment design. For example, one charm could be a large centerpiece, like a big bow shape or a watch face, etc. The concept ties in with the example expressly shown in FIG. 10 about a front portion that emulates a timepiece 210B in that an oversized charm could effectively serve as a faux watch face. Thus, FIG. 10 expressly contemplates charms where the decorative component is significantly larger than the cell, and further, that the primary constraint is only at the interface. The sizing of the charms 300 is an optional feature in the sense that not all charms must be large, but the variance among charm size may help allow for further creativity.

FIG. 10 clearly shows the benefit of a scale comparison. The decorations 302 on the charms 300 can vary greatly in size, but the cell and flange interface can remain uniform. The uniformity is beneficial for interchangeability. Any charm base fits any cell, which solves at least one objective technical problem (e.g., compatibility) set forth by the present disclosure.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 8-10, the charms 300 comprise the upper flange 304 and the lower flange 306, but more specifically, the charm 300 shown includes a second upper flange 304B and a second lower flange 306B, each of which are shown shaped as circles, wherein the second upper flange 304B and the second lower flange 306B are connected via a hexagonal shape to match a shape of and fit within the cells 204. The lower flange 306 can be used to pass through an empty cell 204 and once through, rotated slightly so that it pops into place. The charm 300 is therefore secured within the hex grid wearable object 200 between the upper and lower flanges 304, 306. The second upper flange 304B and the second lower flange 306B are parallel to one another; and are offset by a distance substantially identical to a thickness of the elongated thermoplastic rubber frame 202.

FIG. 11 shows yet further aspects of the decoration 302. Specifically, collections of the bead 302E are shown. These charms 300 have a molded top with the hexagon shape connector with a flat and circular bottom. The beads 302E fit snuggly into the customizable bands. The beads 302E can come in various designs. Specifically, as shown the beads 302E can be rhinestones, spherical domes, smiley faces, bead tops, hearts, stars, bows, ice cream swirls, and the like. In reference to the previously mentioned forms that the decoration 302 can take, the beads 302E include examples of shapes and symbols. Further, the charms 300 shown in FIG. 11 include the second upper flange 304B and the second lower flange 306B shown in FIGS. 8-10.

FIG. 11 thus displays several examples of molded bead charms 302E, illustrating the variety of ornamental shapes that can be used as decorations on the charms. Each of these decorations 302E would be mounted on an upper flange 304 of a charm 300, with a matching lower flange 306 beneath. The charms 300 can be integrally formed into these shapes using injection molding or casting processes. One could mold the entire charm 300, including the flanges 304, 306 and decorative top 302 in one go out of colored rubber/plastic. Alternatively, the decorative top might be molded separately and attached to a standard flange piece 304, 306.

FIGS. 12-13 show additional designs of the customizable band 200. Specifically, FIG. 12 shows a seventh hex grid bracelet 200G, an eighth hex grid bracelet 200H, a nineth hex grid bracelet 200J, and a tenth hex grid bracelet 200K. These various designs include braid, zig zag, spiral, and wavey designs respectively. As shown at least in FIGS. 2, 5-6, & 12, a pattern followed by the empty cells 204 is altered to match the design of the customizable band 200 rather than follow a strictly generic grid structure with perfectly aligned rows and columns. As such, a grid pattern followed in these customizable bands 200 can be tailored to match an overall shape of the respective customizable band 200 to introduce variety in design where charms 300 can be placed.

The braid design 200G can have the appearance of interwoven strands. Structurally, it could mean the hexagonal cells are arranged in a pattern that looks braided. In a non-limiting example, the cells themselves form a crisscross pattern, or the outer contour of the band undulates like a braid. The braid design 200G can have two or more intertwining strip sections that periodically overlap, yet still form a continuous band. FIG. 12 shows something like a band with a wavy edge that alternates sides, mimicking a braid's plait.

The zig-zag design 200H has an angular, zigzagging shape along its length. Instead of being a straight strip, the entire band bends left-right in a zigzag manner. The cells still fill the interior, but the overall outline is serrated. This has the benefit of introducing some elasticity, as a zigzag shape can stretch a bit if pulled. FIG. 12 depicts it as a band that looks like a lightning bolt pattern.

The spiral design 200J can even be interpreted two ways. First, the band itself can be coiled in a spiral form, like a spring or a phone cord, such that it wraps around the wrist without a separate fastener, perhaps by spring tension. The second interpretation is that some decorative element of the band is spiral, such as the arrangement of cells or a spiral pattern printed on it. This effectively could allow an adjustable fit. One could stretch the spiral open a bit to insert the hand.

The wavey design 200K is similar to zig-zag design 200H but smooth. This band 200 has a gentle wave or sine-wave curvature along its length. The edges or the centerline of the band oscillate in a wave form. It is an ornamental variation giving a flowing look. The cells likely follow the curvature. FIG. 12 depicts it as an S-curve repeating.

From a functional perspective, these designs can also provide varied flexibility and feel. In non-limiting examples, a spiral band 200J can be stretchable and does not need a buckle because you wrap it on; a braided band 200G can be thicker and stronger, maybe more rigid but robust; a zigzag band 200H can allow some expansion; and wavey bands 200K can be mostly aesthetic. Each of the patterns also have a distinct ornamental appeal. For example, a braid design bracelet can aesthetically resemble braided leather or cord bracelets, which are popular, but here it is all one piece of rubber. That can be attractive to consumers and distinguishes from just a plain strips with holes. The zigzag and wave can match certain fashion styles too.

FIG. 13 shows yet additional designs for the customizable bands according to a number of rows of cells, in addition to varying a size of the cells. Specifically, an eleventh hex grid bracelet 200L, a twelfth hex grid bracelet 200M, a thirteenth hex grid bracelet 200N, and a fourteenth 200P are shown. These customizable bands 200 correspond to single row bands, double row bands, and triple row bands respectively as shown in FIG. 13. These customizable bands 200 follow a generic grid structure in placement of the cells 204 with aligned alternating rows and columns. The bands can have a hexagon outline with a logo to brand the bands when worn. Smaller holes, or reduced size cells 205 can also be added for the single band to prevent tearing.

FIG. 14 shows the linking of two customizable bands 200 via an extended charm 301. Like the charm 300 which includes upper and lower flanges, the extended charm 301 includes upper flanges 304C and a lower flange 306C. Unlike the charms 300, the extended charm 301 includes two upper flanges, and the lower flange is extended to accommodate the inclusion of two upper flanges. As shown in FIG. 14, the extended charm 301 is placed at distal ends of the customizable bands 200 to create two bands linked as one, in which the upper flanges 304C are inserted through cells 204 in each of the customizable bands 200 shown. The extended charm 301 is not limited to having only two upper flanges.

The extended charm 301 can have three upper flanges 301 in which the third upper flange is placed in between the upper flanges 304C such that a line of three upper flanges are placed in a row on the lower flange 306C. In this regard, the lower flange 306C would be elongated, would include three hexagonal protrusions each extending a same direction from the lower flange 306C, wherein two of the hexagonal protrusions are positioned at distal ends of the lower flange 306C with the third hexagonal protrusion positioned on the lower flange 306C in between the two hexagonal protrusions at distal ends, and further wherein each of the hexagonal protrusions include an upper flange thereon. As such, the charm 301 can include three upper flanges 304C, or can include four, or more, etc.

FIG. 15 shows customizable bands 200 with various design patterns with colors to follow. The designs can be used to simulate cross-stitching, or following other patterns such as geometric patterns, symmetrical patterns, diagonal patterns, diamond patterns, patterns of specific shapes, and so on. The customizable bands 200 can come in a 4-row pattern. As shown in FIG. 15, the customizable band 200 can include a plurality of empty cells 204 or can alternatively include the colored patterns therein. The colored patterns can include red decorations 302RR, blue decorations 302BB, purple decorations 302PP, and so on. The decoration colors are not limited to those shown but may include any colors in any combination to create a pattern.

Alternatively, the patterns can be printed on flexible sheets 1000 with color patterns to follow directly on the sheet as opposed to having the blank flexible sheet 100 (shown in FIG. 1) that includes perforation lines to remove individual customizable bands 200 or shapes (shown in FIG. 18). The designs or patterns of colors can be printed on the band so the child can follow the pattern with the colored beads. The pattern shown on the flexible sheet 1000 includes lines 1010A, 1010B, 1010C, which are shown in a specific color (pink, blue, and purple, respectively for lines 1010A, 1010B, 1010C) for prompting what color of decoration 302 should be placed therein. As shown in FIG. 15, the color of the lines 1010A, 1010B, 1010C need not be followed when placing decorations 302 in the respective cells on the flexible sheet 1000.

FIG. 16 shows the flexible sheets 100 with empty cells 104 that allows users to place decorations 302 to create art, so as to see it come to life. The decorations 302 are placed into the flexible sheet 100 to make the art. Multiple sizes—small, medium, and large—can be used for the sheets 100. The flexible sheets 100 can be printed with art print to guide the decoration 302 placement, in which prompts in the form of specific colors surrounding the various empty cells 104 transition from the flexible sheets 100 into the flexible sheets 1000 like the flexible sheet 1000 shown in FIG. 15 have colored lines prompting the placement of specific colors of decorations 302. Examples of finished art (after the decorations 302 are placed within the empty cells of the flexible sheet 1000) are shown on the right in FIG. 16 in which images can be seen based on the combination and pattern of colors placed in the flexible sheet 1000. The placement of art print on the flexible sheet 1000 can be carried over to the customizable bands 200. In this regard, users can create images of art from colored decorations 302 directly on the customizable bands 200 as prompted by patterns placed thereon.

FIG. 17 shows a customizable watch 700 from various different views. The customizable watch 700 is an example of a watch 702 in combination with the customizable band 200N (previously shown in FIG. 13) with the decorations 302E placed therein in addition to further decorations in the form of letters 302F. As shown, the letters 302F are placed within cells 204 to spell “LOVE” and “LILY”. These words are surrounded by the beads 302E placed in the cells 204 in the form of stars, hearts, bows, and smiley faces. The watch 702 can be transformed into a unique statement piece with the customizable flexible bands 200. Designed like trendy bracelets, the bands allow for the stylish personalization of a watch with interchangeable decorations 302. As shown, the decorations 302 include but are not limited to beads 302E and letters 302F to mimic braided friendship bracelets. The watch 702 can connect with the customizable band 200 by insertion of hooks on the watch 702 through the cells 204 on the customizable band 200, or by any other suitable means including but not limited to and given by way of example, spring bars, pins, integrated lugs, molded connectors, snap-in connectors, fixed bars, adhesive mounts, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc. Note additionally that the watch 702 is placed mid-customizable band, such that the fastener 206 can still connect distal ends of the customizable band 200.

FIG. 18 shows how shapes 110 can be formed from the flexible sheets 100. They are created from the same flexible material as the bands 200, and these shapes 110 can let the user pop in charms 300 to add an extra dimension of creativity and style. These shapes 110 are the same those shown in FIG. 9. The user can layer, mix, and customize the looks of the wearable articles.

FIG. 19 shows that the flexible sheets 100 can be scented 112, such as cotton candy scented, grape scented, orange cream scented, bubble gum scented, cherry scented, blue razzberry scented, and coconut scented. As shown in FIG. 19, the flexible sheet 100 can comprise a plurality of customizable bands 200, those shown in FIG. 19 specifically comprising the nine of the eleventh hex grid bracelet 200L, two of the twelfth hex grid bracelet 200M, and one of the thirteenth hex grid bracelet 200N.

As shown in FIGS. 20-21, optionally included with the toy system or kit is packaging 600. The packaging 600 typically encompasses a portion of or completely subsumes at least the thermoplastic rubber sheet 100. The packaging 600 can comprise, but is not limited to comprising, plastics, thermoplastics, glass, wood, wood wool, paper, paperboard, corrugated cardboard, other biodegradable or recyclable materials, or the like. The packaging 600 can comprise a product identifier 602, such as a word or trade mark, on the packaging 600; a source identifier 604, such as a word or trade mark, on the packaging 600; image(s) 606 of at least one component and/or the entirety of the toy system or kit on or near the packaging 600; instructions 608 for using a part or all of the toy system or kit, warnings 610 for using a part or all of the toy system or kit; QR codes for engaging social aspects of related media; suggested age groups 612 for using the system or kit; and a hang tab from which the packaging 600 can hang from shelves in public stores, where the toy system or kit is then marketed for children. Perforations, folds, pull strings, and/or other predefined points of failure which facilitate ripping, cutting, and/or opening can be included in or with the product packaging 600. A carrying case having a handle can be included to store components of the toy system or kit.

From the foregoing, it can be seen that the present disclosure accomplishes at least all of the stated objectives.

LIST OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS

The following table of reference characters and descriptors are not exhaustive, nor limiting, and include reasonable equivalents. If possible, elements identified by a reference character below and/or those elements which are near ubiquitous within the art can replace or supplement any element identified by another reference character.

TABLE 1
List of Reference Characters

	100	flexible thermoplastic rubber sheet (e.g., ethylene vinyl
		acetate copolymer, silicone, etc.)
	102	frame
	104	empty cell (e.g. hexagonal cell)
	106	solid cell (e.g. hexagonal cell)
	108	outer webbing
	110	shape
	111	cell
	112	scented additive
	200	hex grid wearable object, also referred to as a flexible,
		patterned, and customizable band
	200A	first hex grid bracelet
	200B	second hex grid bracelet
	200C	third hex grid bracelet
	200D	fourth hex grid bracelet
	200E	fifth hex grid bracelet
	200F	sixth hex grid bracelet
	200G	seventh hex grid bracelet
	200H	eighth hex grid bracelet
	200J	nineth hex grid bracelet
	200K	tenth hex grid bracelet
	200L	eleventh hex grid bracelet
	200M	twelfth hex grid bracelet
	200N	thirteenth hex grid bracelet
	200P	fourteenth hex grid bracelet
	202	frame (e.g., an elongated frame)
	204	empty cell (e.g. hexagonal cell)
	205	reduced size cell
	206	fastener
	207	first fastener portion
	208	second fastener portion
	210A	side portion of bracelet
	210B	front portion of bracelet
	300	charm (e.g., stone, bead, jewel, figurine, etc.)
	301	extended charm
	302	decoration
	302A	gem (e.g., polygonal prism)
	302B	tether
	302C	figurine
	302D	larger bead
	302E	bead
	302F	letters
	302BB	blue decorations
	302PP	purple decorations
	302RR	red decorations
	304	upper flange
	304A	first upper flange
	304B	second upper flange
	304C	upper flange
	306	lower flange
	306A	first lower flange
	306B	second lower flange
	306C	lower flange
	308	string
	310	letter beads
	312	charm holder
	312A	first cell
	312B	second cell
	314	charm holder bridge
	400	method of customizing bracelet
	402	peeling step
	404	popping step or insertion
	406	decorating step (e.g., looping string)
	408	fastening step
	410	wearing step
	500	method of building cradle bracelet
	502	designing step
	504	twisting step
	506	tightening step
	600	product packaging
	602	product identifier
	604	source identifier
	606	image
	608	instructions
	610	warning
	612	suggested ages for use
	700	customizable watch band
	702	watch
	1000	flexible sheet
	1010N	line(s)

Glossary

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used above have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which embodiments of the present disclosure pertain.

The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include both singular and plural referents.

The term “or” is synonymous with “and/or” and means any one member or combination of members of a particular list.

As used herein, the term “exemplary” refers to an example, an instance, or an illustration, and does not indicate a most preferred embodiment unless otherwise stated.

The term “about” as used herein refers to slight variations in numerical quantities with respect to any quantifiable variable. Inadvertent error can occur, for example, through use of typical measuring techniques or equipment or from differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of components.

The term “substantially” refers to a great or significant extent. “Substantially” can thus refer to a plurality, majority, and/or a supermajority of said quantifiable variables, given proper context.

The term “generally” encompasses both “about” and “substantially.”

The term “configured” describes structure capable of performing a task or adopting a particular configuration. The term “configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases, such as constructed, arranged, adapted, manufactured, and the like.

Terms characterizing sequential order, a position, and/or an orientation are not limiting and are only referenced according to the views presented.

The “invention” is not intended to refer to any single embodiment of the particular invention but encompass all possible embodiments as described in the specification and the claims. The “scope” of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The scope of the disclosure is further qualified as including any possible modification to any of the aspects and/or embodiments disclosed herein which would result in other embodiments, combinations, subcombinations, or the like that would be obvious to those skilled in the art.