MODULAR NAIL ASSEMBLY

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority and benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/723407 (filed Nov. 26, 2024), which application is incorporated by reference to the extent permitted by applicable law.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an assembly for cosmetic accessories, and more particularly to modular nail care and decoration.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the cosmetic industry, artificial nails play a central role in personal grooming and self-expression, such that artificial nails, nail enhancements, and decorative nail designs have become a crucial part of an individual's everyday beauty routine.

However, traditional artificial nails are expensive, semi-permanent, and not interchangeable. These barriers prevent nail care from being accessible and affordable for everyday use. Therefore, a new modular nail system that is simple to use and that is inexpensive, is desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a modular nail assembly comprising an accessory attachment layer and a nail accessory layer. In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer includes a base member and a securement member protruding from a top surface of the base member. In some embodiments, the securement member is composed of a stem a pair of flanges extending outwardly from the stem, and a mating groove positioned between the pair of flanges. In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer is configured to be removably secured to a user's natural nail through a securement layer adhered to an underside of the base member. In some embodiments, the nail accessory layer includes a top surface configured for ornamental design, and a bottom surface including a recess configured for housing a fastening system, wherein the fastening system includes a receiving inlet, a securement recess, and a sidewall surrounding the securement recess, and wherein the fastening system is configured to receive and removably secure the securement member of the accessory attachment layer.

In some embodiments, the pair of flanges are disposed within the securement recess when the nail accessory layer is removably secured to the accessory attachment layer.

In some embodiments, the securement channel has a tapered shape.

In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer includes a first end positioned closest to a user's nail bed, and a second end positioned closest to the user's fingertip. In some embodiments, the securement member of the accessory attachment layer is positioned closer to the first end of the accessory attachment layer than the second end.

In some embodiments, the stem of the securement member extends a portion of the accessory attachment layer, between the first end and second end, and wherein the stem is flush with the pair of flanges when closest to the first end.

In some embodiments, the stem of the securement member extends a portion of the accessory attachment layer, between the first end and second end, and wherein the pair of flanges overhang the stem when closest to the second end.

In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer fully conceals the accessory layer.

In some embodiments, the pair of flanges are flexible members capable of mating with and removing from the fastening system.

In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer is configured to only partially conceal the user's natural nail.

In some embodiments, the modular nail assembly further comprises an adhesive layer secured to a bottom surface of the base member and configured to removably secure the accessory attachment layer to the user's natural nail.

In some embodiments, the fastening system is ultrasonically welded to the receiving recess of the accessory layer.

In some embodiments, the modular nail assembly further comprises a longitudinal axis, and wherein the accessory layer secures to the accessory attachment layer through a one-direction sliding motion along the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the accessory layer detaches from the accessory attachment layer through a one-direction slide motion along the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the sliding motion for securement is in the opposite direction to the sliding motion for detachment of the accessory attachment layer to and from the nail accessory.

In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer is contoured to mimic the shape of a natural nail.

In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is contoured to mimic the shape of a natural nail.

In some embodiments, the receiving recess of the accessory layer further includes a rail member configured to mate with the mating groove of the securement member of the accessory attachment layer.

In an alternate embodiment, a modular nail assembly includes an accessory attachment layer, a nail accessory layer, and a fastening system. In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer includes a base member and a securement member protruding from a top surface of the base member. In some embodiments, the nail accessory layer includes a top surface configured for ornamental design, and a bottom surface including a fastening recess configured for housing a fastening system. In some embodiments, the fastening system is configured to receive and removably secure the securement member of the accessory layer to the receiving recess of the accessory attachment layer.

In some embodiments, the securement member includes a double lobed profile wherein the first lobe of the securement member includes a circular shape that corresponds to the securement recess. In some embodiments, the second lobe includes a rounded shape that corresponds to the pair of guide walls. In some embodiments, the securement member further includes a vertex formed at the connection between the first lobe and the second lobe. In some embodiments, the vertex is configured to provide the securement point between the guide walls and the securement member.

In some embodiments, the modular nail assembly includes an accessory attachment layer, a nail accessory layer, and a fastening system. In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer includes a base member and a securement member protruding from a top surface of the base member. In some embodiments, the nail accessory layer includes a top surface configured for ornamental design, and a bottom surface including a fastening recess configured for housing a fastening system. In some embodiments, the fastening system includes a receiving inlet that connects to a securement recess, and a sidewall surround the securement recess. In some embodiments, the fastening system is configured to receive and removably secure the securement member of the accessory attachment layer to the accessory attachment layer. In some embodiments, the receiving inlet includes a pair of guide walls, and the guide walls are angled outwardly from the receiving inlet and configured to guide the securement member of the accessory attachment layer to the securement recess.

In some embodiments, the securement member is composed of a stem, a pair of flanges extending outwardly from the stem, and a mating groove positioned between the pair of flanges and wherein the nail accessory layer further includes a rail member configured to mate with the mating groove of the securement member.

In some embodiments, the modular nail assembly further includes a securement layer wherein the securement layer is an adhesive secured to a bottom surface of the base member and configured to removably secure the accessory attachment layer to the user's natural nail.

In some embodiments, the accessory attachment layer, the securement layer, nail accessory layer, and fastening system are contoured to mimic the shape of a natural nail.

In some embodiments, wherein the sidewall of the fastening system is in direct contact with the securement member of the accessory attachment layer while the accessory attachment layer is secured to the nail accessory layer.

In some embodiments, the guide walls are flexible members that are configured to expand and contract when engaging with the securement member of the accessory attachment member. In some embodiments, the guide walls generate an audible sound upon engagement with the vertex.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, where like elements are labeled similarly, and in which:

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a first embodiment of a modular nail assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the modular nail assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is an underside view of the modular nail assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a top-down view of an accessory layer of the modular nail assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an underside view of the accessory layer of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the accessory layer of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the accessory layer of FIG. 6, across line 7-7;

FIG. 8 top-down view of a fastening system of the modular nail assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the fastening system of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is front view of the fastening system of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of an accessory attachment layer of the modular nail assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a top-down view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a front view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a side view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 11;

FIG. 15 is a front view of the modular nail assembly according to FIG. 1;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the modular nail assembly shown in FIG. 15, across line 16-16;

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a securement layer of the modular nail assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 is exploded view of a second embodiment of the modular nail assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a top-down view of an accessory attachment layer of the modular nail assembly of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a side view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a top-down view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a top-down view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is a front view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 19;

FIG. 24 is an underside view of an accessory layer of FIG. 18;

FIG. 25 is an isometric view of the fastening system of FIG. 18;

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the modular nail assembly shown in FIG. 18, across line 26-26;

FIG. 27 is exploded view of a third embodiment of the modular nail assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of an accessory attachment layer of the modular nail assembly of FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is a top-down view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a side view of the accessory attachment layer of FIG. 28;

FIG. 31 is a top-down view of the fastening system of FIG. 27;

FIG. 32 is an underside view of an accessory layer of FIG. 27;

FIG. 33 is an isometric view of the securement member of the accessory layer of FIG. 27;

FIG. 34 is a front view of the securement member of FIG. 33; and

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the modular nail assembly shown in FIG. 27, across line 35-35.

All drawings are schematic and not necessarily to scale. Parts given a reference numerical designation in one figure may be considered to be the same parts where they appear in other figures without a numerical designation for brevity unless specifically labeled with a different part number and described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The features and benefits of the invention are illustrated and described herein by reference to exemplary embodiments. This description of exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. Accordingly, the disclosure expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features.

In the description of embodiments disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,”, “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a modular nail assembly 100 according to the present disclosure. The modular nail assembly 100 allows users to have an affordable, reusable, and environmentally friendly option for their everyday beauty routine. Unlike traditional methods of decorating one's nails, which requires the user to pay for professional nail treatments, such as acrylics, gel extensions, or dip powders, removal, and reapplication, such practices are also very time-consuming and not environmentally friendly. Moreover, some practices are detrimental to a user's health including the harsh chemicals frequently used during the removal process. Such repeated exposures in a short time-frame may pose health risks to users over time. Further, most materials and processes used in nail enhancements often have a high environmental impact, due to the limited options for recycling or reusability, leading to the frequent disposal of artificial nails and packaging materials contributing to waste. The present disclosure overcomes these hurdles through the modular and reusable design. Instead, of requiring harsh chemicals to remove the nail accessory, the present disclosure utilizes a modular system where users can simply snap on and off various nail accessories to adjust the length of the nail, the color, the design, and much more. Further, the present disclosure can accomplish these results without requiring the user to visit a professional to change, remove, apply, or maintain the nail accessories, all while providing a look that resembles traditional acrylic nails without the drawbacks address below. The user-friendly option of the present disclosure not only provides a cost-effective solution, it also saves time, cuts down on waste, and most importantly diminishes a user's exposure to harmful chemicals as the modular assembly can be removed and interchanged without the need of harsh chemicals. Moreover, the present disclosure allows users to interchange or remove the nail accessories while a user performs everyday tasks such as but not limited to exercising, caretaking, working, typing on a keyboard, or playing video games. Once the user is finished with their tasks and activities that may require more dexterity, or that typically would lead to a user's nails in being chipped or damaged, the user can reattach the accessories. This configuration allows a user to remove and reattach accessories quickly on the go when additional dexterity is needed or when they desire to interchange the accessories for style or cosmetic appearance.

The modular nail assembly 100 of FIG. 1 includes an accessory layer 200, a fastening system 300, an accessory attachment system 400, and a securement layer 500, all of which are secured to a user's natural nail 50.

In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 1, the accessory attachment layer 400 is secured to the user's natural nail 50 through the securement layer 500. Once secured to the natural nail 50, one or more accessory layers may be removably secured to the accessory attachment system 400 to provide an interchangeable and modular nail system that allows a user to change the color, size, style, and design of their nails all without having to visit a professional. As described above, the accessory layers 200 are reusable and interchangeable such that a user can attach a first accessory, remove it to attach a second accessory, and then the user can swap back to the first accessory without any damage being done to the accessories. This feature reduces costs and environmental waste associated with changing styles, colors, and sizes of the user's nails.

FIGS. 2-3 show an assembled version of the modular nail assembly 100. The low-profile design allows for a user to fully conceal the fastening system 300, the accessory attachment layer 400 and the securement layer 500. The underside view of the assembly in the assembled orientation is shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the accessory attachment layer 400 is fully concealed by the accessory layer 200, and as such is smaller in size than the accessory layer 200. For example, in some embodiments, the accessory layer 200 has an asymmetrical profile than the accessory attachment layer 400. However, in other embodiments, the accessory layer 200 can have an identical profile as the accessory attachment layer 400 while still fully concealing the accessory attachment layer 400.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4-7, the accessory layer 200 includes a top surface 210 (FIG. 4) and a bottom surface 212 (FIG. 5). The accessory layer 200 may have an arcuate shape to resemble the user's natural nail shape (FIGS. 6-7). In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 7, the apex of the accessory layer 200 is less than 4 mm relative to the outer perimeter. In some embodiments, and as described above, once the accessory layer 200 is secured to the accessory attachment layer 400, the accessory layer 200 completely conceals the accessory attachment layer 400 and the user's natural nail. As such, the accessory layer 200 is composed of a more durable material than the accessory attachment layer. For example, in some embodiments, the accessory layer may be composed of materials including but not limited to ABS, PMMA, Polycarbonate, TPU, TPE, Gel polymers, silicones, metals, precious metals, and/or acrylics. In some embodiments, the top surface 210 may be smooth, rough, decorated or stylized according to the user's preference. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 212 may be smooth, rough, decorated, or stylized according to the user's preference.

In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 5, the bottom surface 212 further includes a receiving recess 220 having one or more locking member 230 for receiving and securing the fastening system 300, and a rail member 240 for interacting with a mating groove of the accessory attachment layer (to be described in more detail below). In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 5, the receiving recess 220 may have a width configured to receive and house the fastening system 300. In some embodiments, the fastening system 300 is secured to the receiving recess 220 through ultrasonic welding. In some embodiments, the fastening system 300 is secured to the receiving recess 220 through common adhesives. In other embodiments, when the width of the receiving recess matches the fastening system, the two are secured through a combination of friction fitting and interlocking of the locking member 230 and mounting grooves 330. In some embodiments, adhesives are included in the combination of friction fitting and interlocking members for the interaction between the locking member 230 and the mounting grooves 330.

In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 5, the rail member 240 may be disposed within the center of the receiving recess 220, and may span a portion of the receiving recess. The rail member 240 is configured to mate with the mating groove 426 of the accessory attachment layer 400. As such, the shape of the rail member 240 corresponds to the mating groove 426. For example, in some embodiments, the rail member 240 may have a triangular shape as shown in FIG. 7. The shape of the rail member 240 allows the accessory attachment layer to slide within the receiving recess 220 while preventing any rotational or unwanted movement of the accessory layer 200 once the layers 200, 400 are attached. In some embodiments, the width of the rail member 240 is less than the width of the mating groove 426 to promote a sliding friction fit between the accessory layer 200 and the accessory attachment layer 400.

In some embodiments, the accessory layer 200 is designed at different lengths to accommodate for different sized fingers and toes. In some embodiments, the accessory layer 200 resembles an acrylic toenail, while in other embodiments, the accessory layer 200 resembles an acrylic fingernail. However, a person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the accessory layer can take many different shapes, sizes, designs, and styles while still providing the modular features described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 8-10, the fastening system 300 is secured to the bottom surface of the accessory layer 200 and enables the accessory layer to removably secure to the accessory attachment layer 400. As shown in FIG. 8, the fastening system 300 includes a receiving inlet 310, a securement recess 320, a plurality of mounting grooves 330, and sidewalls 340.

In some embodiments, the receiving inlet 310 is configured to funnel and guide the accessory attachment layer 400 into the securement recess 320. In some embodiments, the receiving inlet is a linear channel that receives the securement member of the accessory attachment layer 400 and guides the securement member to the securement recess 320. In some embodiments, the receiving inlet further includes one or more guide walls 315 (shown in FIG. 9). In some embodiments, the guide walls 315 are positioned at the beginning of the receiving inlet 310 and are angled outwardly from the receiving inlet 310 such that a user can secure the accessory attachment layer to the accessory layer, without having to see the component interaction. Since the fastening system is concealed underneath the accessory layer and since the accessory layer conceals the accessory attachment layer upon interaction; a user will not be able to see if the components are aligned and secured to one another. To alleviate this potential issue and to promote efficient assembly of the layers 200, 400; the guide walls 315 extend outwardly from the receiving inlet 310 such that a perfect alignment of the layers 200, 400 is not needed initially. In some embodiments, the guide walls are flexible members that span a width that is smaller than the width of the securement member 420. In some embodiments, when the securement member 420 engages the guide walls 315, the guide walls flex and expand to allow the securement member 420 to slide past the guide walls 315 into the securement recess 320.

Upon further engagement of the layers 200, 400, the accessory attachment layer 400 will then be guided into the securement recess 320. The securement recess 320 is a semi-circular recess that corresponds to the shape of the securement member 420 of the accessory attachment layer 400. As suggested from the name, the securement recess 320 is recessed within the fastening system 300 to increase surface area and promote a greater friction fit between the layers 200, 400. Additionally, the height of the recess corresponds to both the height of the sidewalls 340 and the height of the flange members of the accessory attachment layer (to be described in more detail below). In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIGS. 8-10, the securement recess 320 is a one-directional recess, such that component interaction and securement can only be achieved through a sliding motion at the receiving inlet 310. More specifically, the one-directional inlet is along the longitudinal axis of the modular nail assembly. Conversely, if a user wanted to detach the layers 200, 400; they would have to apply force in the opposite direction along the longitudinal axis. Therefore, both securement and detachment can only be achieved through one direction, and in some embodiments, the securement direction is opposite of the attachment direction.

Surrounding the securement recess 320 are the sidewalls 340. As described above, the sidewalls 340 span from the recess floor to a top surface of the fastening system. In some embodiments, the height of the sidewalls 340 correspond to the thickness of the flange members 424 of the accessory attachment layer 400. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 340 prevent excess movement of the accessory attachment layer 400 with the accessory layer 200 within the securement recess 320. As such, the sidewalls 340 provide the signal to the user when full engagement or securement of the layers 200, 400 have been achieved; signaled through a prevention of further sliding. In some embodiments, the signal includes a ‘click’ sound, which is generated through the expansion and contraction of the guide walls 315 as the securement member 420 engages and clears the guide walls and enters into the securement recess 320.

The mounting grooves 330 of the fastening system 300 are disposed along the outer perimeter of the fastening system 300 and provide slots and grooves to interact with the locking members 230 of the accessory layer 200. As briefly described above, the fastening system 300 is secured to and sits within the receiving recess 220 found on the bottom surface of the accessory layer. In some embodiments, the fastening system is ultrasonically welded to the receiving recess 220. In other embodiments, the fastening system is snap-fitted into the receiving recess. In some embodiments, the fastening system is secured to the receiving recess through a combination of modes including but not limited to ultrasonic welding, snap-fitting, friction fiction, magnetics, adhesives, and the like. As such, in some embodiments, the fastening system is permanently secured to the accessory layer 200, while other embodiments, the fastening system may be removably secured.

As shown in FIG. 10, the fastening system 300 is designed to mimic and mirror the shape of the accessory layer 200 and more specifically the receiving recess 220. For example, in some embodiments, the fastening system has an arcuate shape along its axis thereby promoting an efficient housing of the fastening system within the receiving recess 220.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-14. An isometric view of the accessory attachment layer 400 is shown in FIG. 11. As shown, the accessory attachment layer includes a base member 410 and a securement member 420 that protrudes from the base member 410. The base member 410 has an arcuate shape, similar to the accessory layer and fastening system, such that it promotes sufficient interaction with each layer 200, 400 and mimics the natural contours of a user's natural nail. Further, in some embodiments, the base member 410 may take the shape of an elongated oval. In some embodiments, the size of the base member 410 is smaller than a user's natural nail, thereby configured to only partially cover the natural nail. This design optimizes the health of the natural nail by minimizing the area of the natural nail that is in direct contact with the accessory attachment layer. For example, it is well known that adhesives, chemicals, acrylics are harmful to the health of the nail and are difficult to remove from the nail once applied. Therefore, the present disclosure's nail assembly minimizes the surface area of the natural nail that is in contact with such substances and minimizes the amount of cleanup required after removal of such substances.

Positioned on the top surface 412 of the base member 410, is the securement member 420. As briefly described above, the securement member 420 is the component that facilitates securement of the accessory attachment layer 400 to the accessory layer 200, through interaction with the fastening system 300 (embedded within the bottom surface of the accessory layer). In some embodiments, the securement member 420 is unitary with the base member 410. As shown in FIGS. 11-14, the securement member 420 is composed of a stem 422 that extends outwardly from the top surface of the base member, a pair of flange members 424 that overhang from and extend past the stem, and a mating groove 426 positioned between the pair of flange members.

The stem 422 extends a height equal to the thickness of the fastening system 300, such that upon interaction, the securement member 420 can engage the securement recess 320. As shown in FIG. 12, the stem is located off-center of the base member 410; closer to the user's nail bed than the user's fingertip. This configuration promotes a tighter fit of the modular nail assembly to the user's natural nail by putting the center of gravity of the assembly 100 closer to the nail bed, thereby preventing any unwanted lift or gap occurring during continued use of the assembly 100. Further, the configuration of the securement member 420 allows for downward and upward pressure exerted on the modular nail assembly 100 such as through daily activities without the accessory layer 200 detaching, breaking, or disengaging from the accessory attachment layer 400.

Protruding from the stem 422, are the pair of flange members 424. As shown in FIG. 13, the flange members 424 extend outwardly and overhang from the stem, thereby creating a tab interface for the securement member 420. The flange members 424 are configured to engage the guide walls of the receiving inlet 310, pass into the securement recess 320, and contact the sidewalls 340 thereby removably securing the accessory attachment layer 400 to the accessory layer 200. As shown in FIG. 13, the flange members 424 are also arcuate in shape thereby mimicking the shape of the fastening system 300. Referring now to FIG. 14, the flange member starts flush with the stem 422 at the end closest to the user's nail bed, and extends past the full length of the stem, thereby overhanging past the end of the stem that is closest to the user's fingertip. This configuration is also shown in FIG. 12. In some embodiments, the flange members are semi-circular in shape and are designed to interact with the securement recess 320 of the fastening system 300. However, in other embodiments, a person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the flange members can take other shapes to still achieve the desired function of a removable securement. As shown in FIG. 14, the flange members extend past the stem 422 a length of L. In some embodiments, the length, L is configured to prevent the accessory layer 200 from extending past a user's natural nail 50 and contacting their skin during assembly. This is achieved through the extension portion of the flange members contacting the sidewalls 340 of the securement recess 320 thereby preventing any further sliding of the accessory layer 200 onto the accessory attachment layer 400. In some embodiments the flange member 424 may be rounded, arcuate, linear, or jagged, to secure the accessory layer 200 to the accessory attachment layer 400 within a receiving recess 220 of the accessory component 200.

Disposed between the flange members 424 is the mating groove 426. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, the mating groove 426 is triangularly shaped thereby corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the rail member 240. As such, a person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the mating groove may take many different shapes and sizes as long as it corresponds to the shape and size of the rail member 240 of the accessory layer. The similarity in shape and size promotes an additional securement of the layers 200, 400 thereby minimizing any unwanted movement of the layers 200, 400 once securement has been achieved. For example, once the rail member 240 is disposed and mates within the mating groove 426, the rail member 240 prevents the accessory layer 200 from rotating while secured to the accessory attachment layer 400. Additionally, the mating groove 426 guides the securement of the layers 200, 400 similar to the guide walls 315 of the fastening system 300, since once the rail member 240 engages the mating groove, the user can continue applying force to slide the layers 200, 400 together without the worry of misalignment.

FIGS. 15-16 show an assembled view of the assembly 100. More specifically, FIG. 16, shows the cross-sectional view of the assembly 100 thereby revealing the component interaction between the securement member 420, the securement recess 320, and the receiving recess 220 of the accessory layer 200. Once engaged, the securement member 420 contacts the guide walls of the receiving inlet, is guided into the securement recess 320 and continues sliding until the flange members contact the sidewalls 340 of the fastening system 300. A person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the securement member 420 may take many shapes and forms such as having multiple protrusions to increase the amount of friction present in the securement of the accessory layer 200, having one or more fastening mechanisms for snap fitting with the accessory layers, or having one or more magnetic elements for magnetically securing the accessory layer 200 to the accessory attachment layer 400. Further, although, the embodiments shown in the present disclosure detail a sliding friction fit for the removable securement of the layers 200, 400; a person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that snap fittings, tab members, temporary adhesives, magnetics, and any other removably fasteners may be used in other embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 17, the assembly 100 includes a securement layer 500. In some embodiments, the securement layer 500 is a double-sided adhesive layer that secures to both the natural nail 50 and the accessory attachment layer 400. In some embodiments, the securement layer comprises an adhesive substance (e.g., pressure-sensitive adhesive, gel, or resin). In other embodiments, the securement layer may include alternative attachment mechanisms 510 such as magnetic elements, mechanical clasps, or suction components. As described above, in some embodiments, the securement layer is separate from the accessory attachment layer 400. Such design allows a user to have options when deciding how to secure the assembly 100 to their natural nail. However, in other embodiments, the securement layer 500 may be integrated within a bottom surface of the accessory attachment layer 400

A user utilizing the modular nail assembly 100 must first attach the securement layer 500 to the user's natural nail 50. Once secured, the accessory attachment layer 400 is secured to the securement layer 500. Once the accessory attachment layer 400 is fully secured to the user's natural nail 50, a user can removably secure one or more accessory layers 200 to the accessory attachment layer 400. The user can removably secure the accessory layer 200 to the accessory attachment layer 400 by aligning the receiving inlet 310 of the fastening system 300 with the securement member 420 of the accessory attachment layer. Once aligned, the user can push down and slide back the accessory layer 200 to engage the securement member 420 within the receiving recess 320. In some embodiments, the guide walls 315 will flex open to allow the securement member 420 to slide past the guide walls 315 into the securement recess 320, once the securement member 420 slides past the guide walls 315, the guide walls 315 will return to their original shape and create a ‘click’ sound to signal the securement is complete. Once the securement member 420 contacts the sidewalls 340, the user will not be able to slide the layer any further. On a more specific level, the flange member 424 will contact the sidewalls 340, thereby stopping any additional movement and securing the accessory attachment layer within the securement recess. Once the flange member 424 and sidewalls 340 contact, the accessory layer 200 should fully conceal the accessory attachment layer 400 and the securement member 420 should be at least partially disposed within the receiving recess 320. If a user wishes to interchange the accessory layer 200, the user can slide the accessory layer in the opposite direction until the securement member is completely outside of the fastening system 300 and receiving inlet 310. Once fully removed, the user can select a second accessory layer and attach that component using the same method as described above. As such, the assembly 100 allows for quick and easy interchanging of accessory layers without damaging of the layers or components involved, thereby promoting reusability and interchangeability of components.

In an alternate embodiment, as shown for example in FIG. 18, the modular nail assembly 100 includes alternate design for the securement member 420 and fastening system 300. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, the securement member 420 is shaped as a double-lobed profile. A side view of the securement member 420 is shown in FIG. 20 and details the new shape having the double lobed profile along with the securement member being contoured around the top surface of the accessory attachment layer (which is contoured to mimic a user's natural nail). In FIGS. 19-20, the first lobe 427 is composed of a flange member 424 in a rounded geometric shape and having a flat top surface. The flange member 424 is located above and overhang from the stem 422 (also shown in FIG. 23). In some embodiments, the second lobe 428 extends past the stem 422 and has a larger width than the first lobe 427 (shown in FIG. 19).

In some embodiments, as described above, the fastening system 300 may take a different shape than previous discussed. For example, as shown in FIG. 25, the securement recess 320 may further include a securement channel 325 that is configured for engagement with the stem 422 of the alternate designed securement member 420 (shown in FIGS. 18-23). As shown in FIG. 25, the securement channel 325 may include a tapered channel shape. However, a person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the channel 325 may take any shape that corresponds to the shape of the stem 422 of the securement member 420.

In some embodiments, when securing the accessory attachment layer 400 to the accessory layer 200, the securement member 420 of the accessory attachment layer 400 engages with the fastening system 300 found within the accessory layer 200. During engagement, the first lobe 427 of the securement member 420 engages with the guide walls 315, causing them to expand and thereby allowing the first lobe to slide past the receiving inlet 310 and into the securement recess 320. Once within the securement recess 320, the flange member 424 sits on the surface of the securement recess 320 and the first lobe 427 contacts with the side walls 340 of the fastening system. Additionally, the stem 422 of the securement member slides within and along the securement channel 325 for a sufficient securement of the securement member within the fastening system 300 (see FIGS. 21-22). Furthermore, upon complete securement within the securement recess 320, the guide walls 315 will retract to their original shape and engage against the vertex 429 (shown in FIG. 22). In some embodiments, the guide walls generate an audible ‘click’ sound upon engagement with the vertex. As such, the guide walls will engage against the vertex 429 and the second lobe 428, thereby preventing any unwanted rotation of the accessory layer 200 relative to the accessory attachment layer 400. This configuration of the double lobes allows sufficient securement between the layers 200, 400 and prevents any unwanted movement of the accessory layer 200 once secured to the accessory attachment layer 400. For example, as described above, the vertex 429, positioned at the connection point of the first lobe and second lobe promotes a tight engagement of the guide walls 315 against the second lobe 428. The angle of the guide walls 315 correspond to the contoured radius present in the second lobe 428, to promote maximum contact surface between the two components 315, 428. Further, the vertex 429 prevents unwanted rotation of the accessory layer 200 during everyday activity of the modular nail system, such that angular and torque forces applied to the accessory layer are absorbed by the guide walls 315 thereby preventing rotation of the accessory layer relative to the accessory attachment layer 400. FIG. 26 shows a cross-sectional view of the assembled modular nail assembly of the alternate design described herein. As shown in FIG. 26, the securement member 420 sits within and mates with the fastening mechanism 300 positioned within the accessory layer 200. In some embodiments, to promote easy securement and attachment of the fastening system 300 and engagement with the accessory attachment layer 400, the receiving recess 220 of the accessory layer may take a different form, including but not limited to an extended outlet 225.

In another embodiment, as shown for example in FIG. 27, the location of the securement member and the receiving recess may be interchanged. For example, as shown in FIG. 27, the modular nail assembly 1000 may include the securement member 1220 positioned on a bottom surface of an accessory layer 1200, and the receiving recess may be disposed within an accessory attachment layer 1400, a reversed configuration from the first and second embodiment. As shown for example in FIG. 28, the accessory attachment layer 1400 includes a receiving recess 1420 embedded within the top surface 1412 of the base member 1410. The receiving recess 1420 further includes a rail member 1440 disposed centrally within the receiving recess 1420. In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIGS. 28-30, the rail member has a raised triangular shape configured to engage with the securement member 1220 and fastening system 1300 of and within the accessory layer 1200. In some embodiments, the rail member 1440 includes a pyramidal section 1442 and a flattened section 1444. In some embodiments, the pyramidal section 1442 is located closest to the outlet 1425. As shown for example in FIG. 30, the rail member 1440 may raise upwardly and extend outside the receiving recess 1420, thereby allowing the rail member 1440 to engage with both the fastening system 1300 and the securement member 1220. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 1300 is designed to secure to the rail member 1440 and nest within the receiving recess 1420. As shown in FIG. 31, the fastening mechanism 1300 includes one or more guide walls 1315 positioned at the receiving inlet 1310. In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 31, the guide walls are curved members that extend angularly from the receiving inlet 1310 to guide the securement member 1220 into the securement recess 1320. In some embodiments, the guide walls 1315 are flexible members capable of expanding and contracting when force is applied. For example, when the securement member 1220 engages the guide walls 1315, the guide walls 1315 may flex or angle to create a wider receiving inlet thereby allowing the securement member 1220 to pass through the receiving inlet 1315 into the securement inlet 1320. Upon clearance of the securement member 1220 from the receiving inlet, the guide walls 1315 may contract and return to their original position (elastic member). In some embodiments, the guide walls generate an audible ‘click’ sound when they expand and contract, thereby signaling to the user that the securement member 1220 has reached the securement recess 1320. As described above, in some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 32, the securement member 1220 may be positioned on, and protrude from, the bottom surface 1212 of the accessory layer 1200. In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIGS. 33-34, the securement member 1220 includes the stem 1222, the flange members 1224, and the mating groove 1226. The securement member 1220 is configured to extend from the bottom surface of the accessory layer 1200 and to engage with the fastening system 1300 within the receiving recess 1420 of the accessory attachment layer 1400. As described above, the flange member 1224 slides within the receiving inlet 1310 to contact and engage the guide walls 1315 which guide the flange member 1224 into the securement recess 1320. Once within the securement recess 1320, the stem will sit within the receiving inlet 1310, and the mating groove 1226 will engage with the rail member 1440 of the receiving recess 1420. The assembled configuration is shown in the cross-sectional view provided in FIG. 35.

While the foregoing description and drawings represent exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be understood that various additions, modifications and substitutions may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope and range of equivalents of the accompanying claims. In particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, sizes, and with other elements, materials, and components, without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. In addition, numerous variations in the methods/processes described herein may be made within the scope of the present disclosure. One skilled in the art will further appreciate that the embodiments may be used with many modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, sizes, materials, and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the disclosure, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements without departing from the principles described herein. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The appended claims should be construed broadly, to include other variants and embodiments of the disclosure, which may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of equivalents.