CN112584721A

CN112584721A - Wig

Info

Publication number: CN112584721A
Application number: CN201980054741.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 劳拉·迈耶
Original assignee: Meimeng Co ltd
Current assignee: Meimeng Co ltd
Priority date: 2018-08-20
Filing date: 2019-08-17
Publication date: 2021-03-30
Also published as: EP3840606A1; WO2020041154A1; EP3840606A4

Abstract

A hairpiece of artificial, animal or natural hair or a combination thereof, wherein the hairpiece is configured for use as a removable hairpiece, such as a ponytail or extension. The hairpiece may include an attachment member for attachment to a ponytail of a user. The hairpiece may also include a bendable spine member to allow the user to adjust the configuration of the hairpiece. The hairpiece may further comprise an elongated flexible member having a stiffness greater than that of the hair, wherein the elongated member is interwoven in the strands of hair to allow a user to adjust the configuration of the hairpiece. The hairpiece may also include various hair styles, textures or textiles to provide a universal hair style that is easily installed or removed by the user.

Description

Wig

Technical Field

The present invention relates to natural, synthetic or artificial hair, which preferably resembles the properties of natural hair and can be used in a variety of arrangements, such as ponytail, extension or hair weaving. The hair is arranged in various configurations, such as a plait, a godet lock, straight hair, or wavy hair. For the purposes of this application, the term "hair" or "artificial hair" is intended to include any hair that is not intact in its meaning and does not grow on the head of a particular user, natural, simulated, various textiles, textures or synthetic or combinations thereof, and may also include animal hair or feathers as part or all of a hairpiece.

Background

Typically, natural hair has a diameter of about 80 to 100 mm. Natural hair also has unique characteristics that cause the hair to behave differently when dry or wet, such that the bending stiffness of the natural hair will change. Therefore, when used in wigs, weaving, or hair extensions, it is preferable to use artificial hair having as much of the characteristics of natural hair as possible. In recent years, due to the limitation of the supply of natural hair, a significantly greater number of synthetic hair materials have been manufactured. Synthetic materials are typically manufactured using synthetic polyacrylate materials, polyester-based materials or polyamide-based materials.

Polyacrylates used for artificial hair fibers have a low melting point and poor heat resistance, thus forming poor permanent waves. The volume is applied to the fibers during processing, but exposure to environmental factors such as hot water or humidity causes the bond to break. In addition, polyacrylate hair has a feel or touch different from natural hair.

Another method is to use polyester fibers. Polyester fibers have higher strength and are excellent heat-resistant materials. Disadvantageously, polyester fibers have very low hygroscopicity as compared to natural hair, and thus, for example, natural hair exhibits different appearance, feel and physical properties under a high humidity environment. This can cause discomfort when used as a hairpiece for hair or in certain weaves where natural hair and polyester fibers are combined together or adjacent to each other. When natural hair is exposed to rain or moisture, the curls of hair stretch and unravel. However, the moisture retention property and the moisture absorption property of the polyester fiber are extremely small, and therefore, the roll holding and the elongation rarely occur. Therefore, the artificial hair made of polyester fiber is used, which does not show the same level of volume or touch as the natural hair in the presence of moisture. Furthermore, if the polyester hair is made to have the same diameter as the natural hair, the bending rigidity is too high. Bending stiffness refers to the feel, fiber, texture, and other values associated with the bending force desired to bend hair. The bending stiffness is also referred to as bending stiffness. The unit magnitude of the bending moment is the inverse of the change in curvature defined by the application of force on the artificial hair. The greater the bending rigidity of the artificial hair, the less the bending flexibility, and the more difficult it is to bend the artificial hair. Conversely, the smaller the bending stiffness, the greater the bending flexibility, and the artificial hair feels relatively soft to the user.

When the artificial hair is made of mono-polyester fiber having a natural hair diameter of about 80 to 100Mm, it has very high bending stiffness compared to natural hair. When attaching polyester to the wig base, the stiffness causes it to extend excessively upward and be uncomfortable for the user. When the polyester fiber is formed as a part of the extension hair or the weaving, a user feels different characteristics of the natural hair and the polyester fiber. Furthermore, polyester-based hair feels hard with high hardness compared to natural hair. In addition, as hair moisture increases, the polyester fibers tend to separate from the natural hair.

Another method is to use polyamide fibers to form artificial hair. Polyamide fibers may also be surface treated to reduce the unnatural gloss of polyamide fibers. Polyamide fibers (such as aliphatic polyamide) are preferable in workability, but have low bending rigidity, so even if they are set on the wig base, the fibers are difficult to stand up, but lie flat along the wig base. Thus, the use of aliphatic polyamides results in artificial hair that is stiff and lacks rich feel. Still another method is to use a double sheath-core structure made of an aliphatic polyamide resin and an aromatic polyamide resin using a bisamide. These combinations overcome some of the above-mentioned disadvantages. Other methods include mixing artificial hair with natural hair.

As mentioned above, the aim is to utilize artificial hair weaves, wefts or ponytail that approximate natural hair in appearance, feel and texture. Furthermore, it is essential that the values of hygroscopicity and tensile strength, modulus of elasticity or physical properties (such as bending stiffness) are not significantly inferior to those of natural hair.

Artificial hair integration (such as hair extension or hair weaving or weft) increases the length and/or richness of human hair. Typically, the extension hair is cut short, glued or sewn to other hair by incorporating additional human or synthetic hair. Natural human hair can be ironed, dyed and ironed, while synthetic hair cannot. Attachment methods include bundling in hair extensions, attaching clips, fusing, weaving, or wigs in or on hair extensions. Examples of various weft methods are described in the following references. U.S. Pat. No.5,921,253 to Ho-Taeg Jeong on 13/7/1999; U.S. patent No.6,135,122 to Campbell at 24/10/2000; and U.S. patent No.6,405,736 to Townsent at 18.6.2002.

U.S. patent No.7,458,383 to Song discloses another weft for hair extensions. In Song, a method of attaching a weft to human hair is disclosed, wherein the weft includes a plurality of crimpable pressure rings. Human hair is passed through the loop, which is then crimped to hold the weft and artificial hair in place on the user's head. U.S. patent No.9,486,024 to Kim et al discloses another method of attaching weft threads to the hair of a user. In this patent, the integrally looped hair portion is looped around a flexible track so that when the track is attached to the user's head, the length of the portion of artificial hair can be adjusted and can move along the track. In the method using the weft thread, the base anchor is fixed to the head of the user, and then the rail is sewn to the base anchor. The user's hair can be placed between the portions of artificial hair.

U.S. patent No.3,955,587 to Dunn et al discloses a hairpiece for use on a doll or human wherein coated metal wires are interspersed throughout the strands of hair to form a variable shape hairstyle. U.S. patent No.5,899,211 to Brown discloses an artificial hairpiece comprising a separate extension of synthetic human hair secured at one end to a stretchable, twistable and foldable elastic ring or band. The opposite ends of the hair extension may be free or may be gathered and tied or otherwise bound. The elastic loop may be used to secure the gathered actual hair of the user into, for example, a ponytail. The extension hair can then be wrapped around the elastic loop to make it invisible and leave an impression to the person that the extension hair holds the ponytail in place. Hair extensions may be selected to match one or more characteristics of the user's own hair.

U.S. patent No.9,486,024 to Kim et al discloses a hair extension for attachment to a person's head using multiple hair portions held together by a flexible track. The hair portions overlap on the track and can be moved up or down relative to the natural hair of the person.

Hair extensions can provide immediate length, richness, and enhance the appearance of the user. Multiple types of hair extensions can be used for different attachment methods. For example, a small portion of hair may be attached to a user one by braiding, tying, gluing, clamping, shrink tubing, weaving, gluing, and the like. This method of attachment is also known as strand-by-strand attachment and provides a relatively lightweight extension that can move with the user's natural hair while styling. However, the strand-by-strand attachment method is time intensive and relatively expensive.

Weft extensions are a more cost effective and less time consuming option. Weft hair extensions typically comprise a weft thread extending along a top portion to which an elongated piece of hair band is attached. The weft hair extension may be attached to the user using a micro-loop, a clamp, a braid, a tie, an adhesive, a tape, a glue, or by sewing to the user's hair. For example, a portion of a user's hair may be held together by double-sided adhesive tape near the user's scalp, and weft hair extension may be attached to one side of the adhesive tape. Subsequently, the weft extension hair and attached hair are pulled upward, and another weft extension hair is attached on the other side of the adhesive tape. Weft hair extensions may also be sewn to the hair of the user. In this way, the user's hair can be woven, for example, into a composite row (com-rows) into which weft extensions can be stitched.

Weft hair extensions can be attached faster and at a lower cost than hair extensions attached by the strand-by-strand method. However, since the hair strands are fixed to the weft, the extension hair is restricted in its movement and the styling of the hair is more difficult. Furthermore, due to the relatively bulky nature of weft, hair extensions are more pronounced than hair extensions attached by a strand-by-strand method, particularly when the hair is pulled upward in an upward fashion (such as a ponytail). Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a hair extension that can be attached relatively quickly and that looks natural in a variety of hair styles.

Another popular hair style is the use of artificial hair for ponytail. In the case of ponytail, the user's natural hair may be used to blend in and cover the attachment for artificial hair. Ponytail is a popular method that provides a quick way to give the user the appearance of longer hairs that can be arranged in various configurations, such as waves, braids, or goddess. Various conventional attachment methods are used, including adhesives, clips, wraps, and loops.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention is an apparatus and method for forming and securing synthetic or artificial hair to form a pony tail or extension of natural appearance. The method includes using artificial hair rather than the user's own intact hair to form and secure a pony tail or similar hair configuration for the user. Then, artificial hair is attached and wound around the formation and fixation area of the ponytail. Then, the formation and fixation area of the ponytail is covered with the user's natural hair. This region is also known as the base of the ponytail.

The device includes a length of hair having a plurality of individual strands of hair different from the user's full hair. The first end of the strand is connected to a wig or ponytail securing member, one example being a loop of elastic material. The opposite or distal end of the strand may be free, or may include a second fixation member; one example is a conventional hairpin or clip. Hair is arranged in various configurations, such as plaits, twists (twists), locks, straight hair, curls, or waves. For the purposes of this application, the term "hair" is intended to include any hair, natural, animal, imitation, synthetic, or combinations thereof, that is not intact in its meaning and does not grow on the head of a particular user. As used herein, feathers or other ornamental accessories may also be included as part of the wig, twist or braid. The hair may be made of natural hair, animal hair, textiles, wire, plastics, fabrics, wires or similar materials or combinations thereof. Additionally, the hair and/or spine (as described below) may also include leather, plastic tubing, artificial leather, flexible wire, and various other textiles that may be included in or on the hair and/or spine of the wigs described below. Further, the hairpiece of the present invention may take the form of various shapes or configurations and is not limited to a ponytail as described below. Similarly, various decorative elements, including lighting elements such as lighted bracelets, feathers, necklaces or beads, may be added to the hair and/or spine without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. The loops described herein may also be of various sizes, widths, and configurations, including for headgear or straps. The wires described herein may be of various sizes or materials, and may be used in various configurations, including wigs, ponytail, or similar hair arrangements. Finally, although the invention is described for use with humans, the invention is not limited to age, gender, race, adult or child, and may be used with any non-human being, such as any animal, including horses, dogs or cats, as well as dolls and toys, figurines, robots or mannequins.

The method and apparatus allow a user to form and secure a hairpiece, such as a ponytail, and cover the securing area by simulating the user's own complete hair and hiding the actual method of forming and securing the hairpiece or ponytail.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a spinal member in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cylindrical member of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the weft of the artificial hair according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the components of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, showing a front view of a mesh member for use in a hair configuration having a goddess lock.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the invention showing a hair configuration with a latch showing a single latch of the hair.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the alternate embodiment of fig. 6 of the present invention, showing the rear surface of a mesh member for a hair configuration having a godet lock, showing the attachment of the godet lock to the mesh member.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a hair configuration having a single hair plait pony tail.

Fig. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of the single hair pigtail of fig. 9.

Fig. 11 is an alternative embodiment of the present invention, showing a hair configuration having a thin multiple twist ponytail.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the multi-twist ponytail of fig. 11, showing an enlarged loop of hair.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a hair configuration having an elongated ponytail.

Fig. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of an assembly of the elongate ponytail of fig. 13.

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a hair configuration having elongated wavy hair.

Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a mesh member for elongated wave action.

Fig. 17 is another perspective view of a mesh member for elongated wave action.

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of an assembly of an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of an assembly of an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 20 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention showing a preferred hair configuration.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of an alternative hair configuration assembled using the embodiment shown in fig. 18.

Fig. 22 is a perspective view illustrating the hair configuration of fig. 21.

Fig. 23 is a perspective view of an alternative hair configuration assembled using the embodiment shown in fig. 18.

Fig. 24 is a perspective view illustrating the hair configuration of fig. 23.

Fig. 25 is a perspective view of an alternative hair configuration assembled using the embodiment shown in fig. 18.

Fig. 26 is a perspective view illustrating the hair configuration of fig. 25.

Fig. 27 is a perspective view of an alternative hair configuration assembled using the embodiment shown in fig. 18.

Fig. 28 is a perspective view illustrating the hair configuration of fig. 27.

Fig. 29 is a perspective view of an alternative hair configuration similar to the embodiment shown in fig. 11.

Fig. 30 is a perspective view of an alternative hair configuration similar to the embodiment shown in fig. 7.

Detailed Description

In order to provide a better understanding of the present invention, which is limited only by the appended claims, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail. Reference will often be made to the accompanying drawings. Reference numerals are used in the figures to denote certain parts or positions.

Fig. 1 generally illustrates a ponytail apparatus 10 according to the present invention. In this embodiment, ponytail device 10 includes an attachment member 12 for attaching the device to a user's head. In this embodiment, the attachment member 12 is formed to include a flexible tip member. The attachment member 12 is preferably formed of rubber or other similar soft plastic material. In use, the attachment member is secured in position on the head of a user. The use of the attachment member 12 is more comfortable for the user than a conventional metal clip or similar device. The ponytail device 16 of this embodiment also includes a flexible spine or wire member 14 that extends along the length of the ponytail hair. In one embodiment, the spine extends a quarter of the length of ponytail 16. In another embodiment, the spine 14 extends approximately one-half the length of the ponytail hair. In another embodiment, the spine extends more than three-quarters of the length of the ponytail and/or hairpiece. The length of the spine 14 allows a user to modify, twist, or otherwise arrange ponytail hair 16 into a desired hair pattern.

A length of artificial hair or another person's isolated natural hair or a combination of natural and artificial hair is made up of a plurality of individual strands of hair. For present purposes, the term "hair" or "artificial hair" is intended to include any hair that is not intact in its meaning and does not grow on the head of a particular user, natural, simulated, or synthetic hair, or combinations thereof. As described herein, ponytail hair 16 is attached to the spine 14 at one end, and is preferably loose or free at the other end.

As shown in fig. 2-5, the spine 14 of the present embodiment is formed from a plurality of components that are combined to form the ponytail apparatus of the present embodiment. As shown, the spine includes an elongated, generally cylindrical member 18. In a preferred form of this embodiment, the cylindrical member 18 is constructed of an internal, elongated and flexible wire 20 preferably wrapped or encased in a flexible material 22, such as a plastic, leather, or rubber material. The cylindrical member 18 of the preferred embodiment comprises the following materials: the material has different flexibility and tensile strength such that the flexibility of all or a portion of the spinal column 14 may be modified for the intended use of the ponytail device 16. Cylindrical member 18 is preferably capable of being bent into almost any desired configuration, and will retain that desired configuration until it is moved or bent into other desired configurations. The flexible material 22 is selected to maintain its flexibility over multiple bends, and may also preferably be colored or tinted to substantially match or contrast with the desired hair color of the pony tail 16 or hairpiece. Similarly, the wires and casings described below may also be colored or dyed to substantially match or contrast with the desired hair color of ponytail 16 or hairpiece. The flexible material is also selected to provide frictional resistance to limit lateral movement of ponytail hair 16 along the spine 14. The wire 20 is preferably formed of a highly flexible metal having a high tensile strength, such as a surgical wire. The wire 20 and/or flexible material 22 may or may not have matching color shells to match the hair and remain flexible over multiple bends. Alternatively, the spine 14 may be constructed solely of metal (such as surgical wire or cord) having the desired bending characteristics. The spine 14 also includes a first end tip 24 and a second end tip 26 secured to the ends of the cylindrical member 18. The first end tip 24 serves as the attachment member 12 as described above. The first and

second end tips

24, 26 are preferably formed of a soft material, such as a rubber material or felt, to provide a soft end surface that is placed against the skin of a user when the ponytail device 10 is placed on the head of a user. In one form of the invention, one end of the spine 14 may be bent into a generally circular portion to serve as an attachment member so that the bent portion of the spine may be wrapped around a bun or ponytail of the user.

Fig. 4 illustrates a weft yarn 28 or an elongated strand 30 used to form the ponytail apparatus 10 of the present embodiment. As shown, the ends of the hair strands 30 are stitched into the elongated weft 28. In this embodiment, one or more layers of stitching 32 or similar material are used to stitch or otherwise attach the ends of the hair into the elongated weft to retain the fixed ends of the hair 16. The length of hair 16 may be generally fixed, as shown, or may vary depending on the desired ponytail style.

Fig. 5 illustrates a method of forming the ponytail apparatus 10 of the present invention. As shown, the weft yarn 28 is wound around the cylindrical member 18. The preferred mode is similar to the fishing ligature mode, wherein the weft thread 28 is wrapped and moved longitudinally along the cylindrical member 18 while allowing the free ends of the hair 16 to extend outwardly from the cylindrical member 18. In one form of this embodiment, one or more knots or strings may be tied along the periodic length of the spinal column 14 to minimize lateral or longitudinal movement of the weft along the spinal column as the ponytail device is formed. When the weft thread reaches the end of the spine 14, the weft thread 28 may be cut and sewn to the spine. Alternatively, the ends of the weft threads 28 may be secured in place by attaching the first end tip 24 and/or the second end tip 26 to the ends of the cylindrical member 18. First end tip 24 and/or second end tip 26 may be glued or friction fit onto the end of cylindrical member 18. Alternatively, the ends of the weft 28 may be stitched into place using stitching having the same general color as the hair of the weft 28. As shown, the free ends of the hair may extend beyond a substantial length of the spine to form a natural looking and flexible ponytail. Similarly, the columnar members 18 of the spine 14 may be bent into a variety of configurations to form ponytail that may assume virtually any configuration desired by a user. In the example of this embodiment, the spine is of any length or size, although in one example, the spine may be about 20 inches long and the hair of the ponytail is about 18 inches long. In the example of this embodiment, the weft is of any length or dimension, although in one example, the length of the weft is about 98 inches long to provide a thick ponytail. In a preferred form of this embodiment, the entire hairpiece from the attachment member 12 to the free end of the hair can be of any length, although in this embodiment the length is about 30 inches. In another form of the invention, the length of the spine 14 may be greater than at least half the length of the hair to provide an elongated spine 14 that allows ponytail to be configured in a variety of arrangements. The dimensions set forth herein are for exemplary purposes and may vary depending on the hair style or arrangement desired by the user. For clarity, hair extending from the weft 28 near the second end member 26 of the cylindrical member 18 is not shown in fig. 5 to allow for the hair strands 30 extending from the stitches 32 of the weft 28 to be shown. It should be understood that the weft 28 may include strands of hair 30 extending along all or a portion of its length to form the desired hairpiece.

Fig. 6-8 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention, wherein ponytail 40 is configured as a goddess lock. As shown in this embodiment, a flexible loop 42 for forming a ponytail is provided. The loops 42 are essentially continuous strands, loops or elastic bands, such as rubber, surrounded or covered by an elastic fabric and forming a continuous loop. In an example of this embodiment, the loop may have any length, width, or dimension, although in this example, the diameter of the loop 42 may be on the order of approximately three inches in a normal, non-extended state. Any part or the whole of it can be expanded to several times its normal length, while being foldable and twistable. One end of the ponytail 40 of this embodiment may be secured to a decorative mesh 44, and the decorative mesh is attached to the loop 42 by a plurality of spaced apart tabs 46. In this embodiment, the mesh 44 extends outwardly from the circumference of the loop 42 such that the first end portion 48 of the mesh 44 extends further from the loop than the second end portion 49 of the mesh, such that the ponytail 40 ideally lies generally along the user's hair as compared to a single loop or equally spaced mesh.

The web 44 of this embodiment preferably also includes a bonded area on the outer periphery that is thicker than the more centrally located web area. The central region of the net may be formed of a flexible material, such as a wig lace. Additionally, with the godet lock configuration of the present embodiment, a plurality of ribbon-type members extend along the web 44 perpendicular to the first and

second end portions

48, 49 and the ends of the godet lock are attached thereto. The ribbon provides reinforcement and provides a small amount of lateral movement to allow the locks to move naturally on the user's head. In a preferred form of the invention, about five ribbons are used, although almost any number of ribbons can be used to achieve a desired hair style or appearance. The ribbon is attached to the wig lace of the net 44 at a plurality of locations. As shown in fig. 7, the ends of the hair are secured to the mesh 44 by weaving strands of hair onto the mesh 44 or otherwise securing the hair along the longitudinal dimension of the mesh 44 in a plurality of locations. In the embodiment shown, the top row of ribbons includes about seven loops for attaching the goddess lock thereto. The number of godet locks attached to the ribbon decreases along the longitudinal dimension of the mesh, such that 7 loops are used, then 5 loops, then 4 loops, then two rows of 3 loops are used. The tab 46 is then wrapped around the loop 42 and each end of the tab is tied to the web 44 by stitching or other material. Other manners or configurations of loops and rows are possible depending on the final desired hair style. At the tail end 41 of the ponytail 40, the hair strands are twisted and woven into the goddess lock. In an example of this embodiment, the godet lock has any length or size, although in one present example, the godet lock may be about 36 inches long, and as an exemplary size, the mesh may be about 3 inches by 3 inches.

The purpose of the loop 42 is to secure the user's ponytail in the same manner as an elastic or rubber band conventionally does, but includes a length of hair that extends from the mesh 44 and can then be wrapped around the mesh 44 to both conceal the loop 42 and mesh 44 and to look like the user's own complete hair to form and secure the ponytail in place. Alternatively, because a decorative mesh 44 is used, all or a portion of the mesh 44 may be exposed to appear as if the user had a hair clip or decorative design on the ponytail.

Fig. 9-10 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention in which ponytail 50 is configured as an elongated single-pronged ponytail. As shown in this embodiment, a flexible loop 52 is provided for attaching a ponytail. The loop 52 is essentially a continuous strand, loop or elastic band, such as rubber, surrounded or covered by an elastic fabric, forming a continuous loop. The ring 52 can have almost any size, and in an exemplary configuration, the diameter of the ring 52 can be on the order of approximately three inches in a normal, non-extended state. Any part or the whole of it can be expanded to several times its normal length, while being foldable and twistable. One end of ponytail 50 of this embodiment is braided into a loop of hair 54, and loop 52 is threaded through loop of hair 54. In this embodiment, the opening of loop 52 is preferably aligned parallel to hair loop 54 to allow ponytail 50 to lie flat once it is placed on the user's head. At the other end 56 of the ponytail 50, the hair strands are twisted and braided into a long single strand. In the example of this embodiment, the hair is any length or size, although in this example, the hair may be about 62 inches to form an elongated single hair strand of about 31 inches.

The loop 52 of this embodiment functions to secure the ponytail of the user in the same manner as an elastic or rubber band would conventionally do. The user may then include a length of their own hair, which may then be wrapped around the loop 52 to both conceal the loop 52 and look like the user's own complete hair forming and securing in place the ponytail of the user. The tail end 56 of the ponytail 50 of this embodiment may include a rubber band, a band or decorative clip or even a small amount of tape or adhesive to ensure that the hair braid does not loosen during use.

Fig. 11-12 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention, wherein ponytail 60 is configured as an elongate pigtail having a plurality of pigtail strands. As shown in this embodiment, a flexible loop 62 for forming a ponytail or extension is provided. The loop 62 is essentially a continuous filament, loop or elastic band, such as rubber, surrounded or covered by an elastic fabric, forming a continuous loop. In a normal, non-extended state, the diameter of the loop 62 may be about two inches, although the loop may be any length or size. Any part or the whole of it can be expanded to several times its normal length, while being foldable and twistable. One end of ponytail 60 of this embodiment is braided into a hair loop 64, and loop 62 passes through hair loop 64. In this embodiment, the opening of loop 62 is aligned perpendicular to hair loop 64 to allow ponytail 60 to lie generally flat from the user's head. At the tail end 66 of the ponytail 60, the hair strands are twisted into a plurality of long twists. In the example of this embodiment, the strands are of any length or size, although in one example, the strands are about 32 inches long and may be configured for medium or small twists. In a medium twist configuration, about 10 strands are used. In the small twist embodiment, about 60 strands are used. These numbers and dimensions are exemplary and are not intended to be limiting, but rather to illustrate one example of the invention.

The function of the loop 62 of this embodiment is to secure the ponytail of the user in the same manner as an elastic or rubber band would conventionally do. The user may then include a length of their own hair, which may then be wrapped around the loop 62 to both conceal the loop 62 and look like the user's own complete hair forming and securing in place the ponytail of the user. The tail end 66 of ponytail 60 of this embodiment may include rubber bands, or small amounts of tape, stitching, or adhesives to ensure that the braid does not loosen during use.

Fig. 13 and 14 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention, wherein ponytail 70 is configured as an elongated straight ponytail. As shown in this embodiment, a flexible loop 72 for forming a ponytail is provided. The loop 72 is essentially a continuous strand, loop or elastic band, such as rubber, surrounded or covered by an elastic fabric, forming a continuous loop. In the example of this embodiment, the ring has any length or dimension, although in one example, the diameter of the ring 72 may be on the order of approximately three inches in a normal, non-extended state. Any part or the whole of it can be expanded to several times its normal length, while being foldable and twistable. One end of the ponytail 70 of this embodiment includes a hair weft 74 that is sewn to a piece of wig mesh 78, which preferably has a twill strip along the end. In this embodiment, the weft threads 74 are folded multiple times over the mesh 78 to provide the weft threads 74 with a thicker set of hair 76. The hair 76 is sewn directly to the fabric mesh 78 and the mesh is sewn directly to or configured to cover at least a portion of the loop 72. In this embodiment, the opening of the loop 72 is aligned parallel to one end of the weft thread 74 to allow the ponytail to lie in alignment with the loop 72 once the ponytail 70 is placed on the user's head. Hair strands 100 from weft 74 extend loosely to tail end 77 of ponytail 70.

The function of the loop 72 of this embodiment is to tail the user in the same manner as an elastic or rubber band would conventionally do. The user may then include a length of their own hair, which may then be wrapped around the loop 72 to both conceal the loop 42 and look like the user's own complete hair to form and secure in place the ponytail of the user.

Fig. 15-17 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention, wherein ponytail 80 is configured as a length of wave. As shown in this embodiment, a flexible loop 82 is provided for attaching the wave to the head of the user. The loop 82 is essentially a continuous strand, loop or elastic band, such as rubber, surrounded or covered by an elastic fabric, forming a continuous loop. In the example of this embodiment, the ring has any length or dimension, although in the present example, the diameter of the ring 82 may be on the order of approximately three inches in the normal, non-extended state. Any part or the whole of it can be expanded to several times its normal length, while being foldable and twistable. One end of ponytail 80 of this embodiment is secured to a decorative mesh 84, and the decorative mesh is attached to ring 82 by a plurality of spaced apart tabs 86. First end 88 of web 84 is sewn generally flush with ring 82 and attached to ring 82 with spaced apart tabs 86.

In this embodiment, the mesh 84 extends outwardly from the circumference of the ring 82 and the first end 88 of the mesh such that the second end portion 89 of the mesh 84 extends laterally outwardly from the width dimension of the ring 82, and is preferably larger than the ring 82, to provide a wider surface from which hair extends downwardly and outwardly. In this embodiment, a tab 86 attached to a first end 88 of web 84 is compressed over loop 82 such that the width of the web adjacent first end 88 is less than a wider second end 89 of the web extending away from loop 82. The mesh 84 of this embodiment is configured and arranged such that the ponytail 80 lies flatter and extends further outward along the user's hair than a single loop or equidistant mesh. In a preferred form of this embodiment, the elastic web 90 extends from the first end 88 to the second end 89 of the web and is arranged to spread out along the length dimension of the web 84 so that the ends of the tab 86 adjacent the first end 88 of the web 84 are closer to each other than the ends of the tab 86 adjacent the second end 89 of the web 84. The outer perimeter of the mesh 84 also preferably includes an outer perimeter of a bonded-type material to provide further support to the mesh 84. In a preferred form of this embodiment, the hair is configured as a plurality of hair weft threads 92. The ends of the weft hair threads 92 are secured to the mesh 84 by weaving the weft hair strands onto the mesh in the longitudinal direction of the mesh 84 to provide a thicker appearance than if a single layer of hair were attached at a single location along the mesh 84. In this embodiment, approximately ten rows of hair weft yarns are attached to the mesh 84. The number and arrangement of weft yarns may vary depending on the desired hair style or appearance. Tab 86 is then wrapped around loop 82 and each end of the tab is then tied to web 84 by stitching. Tab 86 loosely engages ring 82 to allow tab 86 to move in the transverse direction of ring 82. The hair strands are aligned to extend downwardly from the mesh 84 to allow the user to arrange the hair as a wavy hair extension or as a ponytail.

The purpose of the loop 82 is to secure the user's ponytail in the same manner as an elastic or rubber band conventionally does, but includes a length of artificial hair that extends from the mesh 84 and can then be wrapped around the mesh 84 to both conceal the loop 82 and mesh 84 and to look like the user's own complete hair to form and secure the ponytail in place. Alternatively, because a decorative mesh 84 is used, all or a portion of the mesh may be exposed to appear as if the user had a hair clip or decoration on their ponytail.

As shown in fig. 18 to 30, like numerals are applied to like elements as described above. Variations of the elements are described herein to further illustrate the alternative embodiments described herein. For example, the alternate embodiment spine 14 is formed from multiple components that are combined to form an alternate embodiment ponytail device. As shown, the spine includes an elongated, generally cylindrical member 18. In a preferred form of this embodiment, the cylindrical member 18 is constructed of an inner, elongated and flexible wire 20 preferably surrounded or encased in a flexible material 22, such as a plastic or rubber material. The cylindrical member 18 of the preferred embodiment comprises the following materials: the material has different flexibility and tensile strength so that the flexibility of the spine 14 may be modified for the intended use of the ponytail plait apparatus 16 or wig. Cylindrical member 18 is preferably capable of being bent into almost any desired configuration and will retain that desired configuration until it is moved or bent into another desired configuration. The flexible material 22 is selected to maintain its flexibility over multiple bends and is also colored or tinted to generally match or contrast with the desired hair color of the ponytail hair. Similarly, the wires and the shell may also be colored or dyed to substantially match or contrast with the desired hair color of the ponytail 16 or hairpiece. The flexible material is also selected to provide frictional resistance to limit lateral movement of ponytail hair 16 along the spine 14. The wire 20 is preferably formed of a highly flexible material, such as a metal having a high tensile strength, such as a surgical wire. Alternatively, the spine 14 may be constructed solely of a flexible material (such as a metal), which may be a surgical wire or cord having desired bending characteristics. The spine 14 also includes a first end tip 24 and a second end tip 26 secured to the ends of the cylindrical member 18. As described above, the first end tip 24 serves as the attachment member 12. The first and

second end tips

24, 26 are preferably formed of a soft material, such as a rubber material or felt, to provide a soft end surface that is placed against the skin of a user when the ponytail device 10 is placed on the head of a user.

Fig. 18 shows an alternative embodiment with multiple wefts wound simultaneously along the spine 14. A plurality of

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 or a string of elongated hair strands 30 are used to form the ponytail device or hair pattern of the present embodiment. In addition, the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 of this embodiment may include one or more reinforcing members, such as wires 120, flexible members or plastic members, that pass through or are located in selected portions of the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 to allow the strands of hair to be further bent or arranged into a desired hair pattern. Although the embodiment of fig. 18-28 shows the use of three weft yarns, it is contemplated that fewer or more different weft yarns may be used to form the desired hairpiece. Additionally, as shown, the ends of the hair strands 30 are stitched or otherwise attached to the

elongated weft threads

28, 114, and 116, and the plurality of

weft threads

28, 114, and 116 are wrapped around the spine 14. In this embodiment, the three

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 are shown as having one or more layers of stitching 32, 110 and 112 or similar material wrapped around the spine to hold the fixed ends of hair 16 in an overlapping or adjacent arrangement along the spine. The

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 may be formed from the same hair pattern or different hair patterns to form the desired pony tail or hair pattern. Although

sutures

32, 110, and 112 are described herein as being formed of a flexible, wire-like material, it is contemplated that they may also be formed of flexible metal, wire, plastic, or other durable and flexible material. Hair 16 may also have a generally fixed length, as shown, or may vary depending on the ponytail style or desired hair style as described below. For clarity, hair extending from the

weft threads

28, 114 and 116 near the second end member 26 of the cylindrical member 18 is not shown in fig. 18 to allow for the hair strands 30 extending from the

stitches

32, 110 and 112 of the

weft threads

28, 114 and 116 to be shown. It should be understood that each of the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 may include hair strands 30 extending along all or a portion of its length to provide the desired hairpiece, and that each

weft yarn

28, 114 and 116 may include the same hair or different hair having different lengths, textures and textiles to form various hair braids and curling patterns. Similarly, each

weft yarn

28, 114, and 116 may comprise various wires or materials to provide stiffness or flexibility to all or portions of each

weft yarn

28, 114, and 116.

As shown in fig. 19 and 20, the hair strands 30 of each

weft yarn

28, 114 and 116 may be formed into small hair strands to provide a hairpiece having a plurality of small hair strands. The hair strands 30 of this embodiment may be used in a long and downward arrangement, or may be wrapped around the top knots to achieve the height, volume and texture of the desired hair pattern. In the example of this embodiment, the strands are of any length or size, although in one example, the strands are about 32 inches long and may be configured for medium or small twists. In the medium twist configuration, about 10 strands are used, although any number of strands may be used depending on the desired pattern or appearance. In the small twist embodiment, about 60 strands are used, although any number may be used for the desired style or appearance. The tail end of the ponytail braid of this embodiment is tapered and twisted, or may include rubber bands, small amounts of tape, stitches, or adhesives to ensure that the braid does not loosen during use. In this embodiment, each strand of the braid may also include a wire or similar flexible and bendable material to allow a user to adjust each braid to a desired configuration or hair pattern. In addition, the use of

multiple weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 allows a user to include plaits, twists, locks, straight, curls or waves of varying lengths, colors, textures, curls (eyes) or patterns in a single hair pattern configuration. For example, if the weft yarns 28 include a plait-like hair pattern having a first length, the weft yarns 114 may be formed from a plait-like hair pattern having a different length. The weft 116 may be formed from a plait hair pattern having another hair length or a hair pattern similar in length to the hair or hair pattern of

weft

28 or 114. In the assembly process shown in fig. 18, the weft yarn 28 is wrapped along the spinal column and the weft yarn 114 is wrapped about the weft yarn 28. Weft yarn 116 is then wound about weft yarn 114 and positioned adjacent the next winding of weft yarn 28. This allows the hair strands from each of the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 to be mixed together or layered into a desired hair pattern.

As shown in fig. 21 and 22, the hair strands 30 of each

weft yarn

28, 114 and 116 may be formed with multiple hair strands, fittings or multiple long hair strands of different colors to provide a hairpiece with multiple curls. The hair strands 30 of this embodiment may be used in a long and downward arrangement, or may be wrapped around the top knots to achieve the height, volume and texture of the desired hair pattern. As shown in this embodiment, the

weft yarns

28 and 116 may be formed from long strands of hair, while the weft yarns 114 may be formed from plaits, colors, rolls, or accessories. This allows the final hair style, including a braid, curl, color or accessory, to be blended into the hairpiece. As with the previous embodiments, one or more of the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 may include wires or reinforcement members or hair strands of different lengths incorporated therein to allow the user to arrange the embodiment into a desired hair pattern.

As shown in fig. 23 and 24, the hair strands 30 of each

weft

28, 114 and 116 may be formed as a plurality of long wavy hair strands. The hair strands 30 of this embodiment may be used in a long and downward arrangement, halfway up or down, or may be wrapped around the top knots to achieve the height, volume and texture of the desired hair pattern. As shown in this embodiment, the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 may be formed from long wave-like or "curly" strands of hair. This allows the final hair style to include long wavy hair strands to be blended into the hairpiece. As with the previous embodiments, one or more of the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 may include wires or reinforcement members or hair strands of different lengths incorporated therein to allow the user to arrange the embodiment into a desired hair pattern. Similarly, each strand may also include a wire or similar flexible and bendable material to allow a user to adjust each strand to a desired configuration or hair pattern.

As shown in fig. 25 and 26, the hair strands 30 of each

weft

28, 114 and 116 may be formed with multiple small plaits or twisted multiple long hair strands. The hair strands 30 of this embodiment may be used in a long and downward arrangement, or may be wrapped around the top knot to achieve the height, curl and texture of the desired hair pattern, or half way up or down to provide a curl on the user's head. As shown in this embodiment, the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 may be formed from a plurality of small plaits. This allows the final hair style to include a hair braid while adding a curl, color, or fitting to be attached to the hairpiece. As with the previous embodiments, one or more of the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 may include wires or reinforcement members incorporated therein, or hair strands of different lengths or stiffnesses, to allow a user to arrange the embodiment into a desired hair pattern having multiple hair braids.

As shown in fig. 27 and 28, the hair strands 30 of each

weft yarn

28, 114 and 116 may be formed as a plurality of long hair strands having a plurality of small curls. The hair strands 30 of this embodiment may be used in a long and downward arrangement, or may be wrapped around the top knot to achieve the height, curl and texture of the desired hair pattern, or half way up or down to provide a curl on the user's head. This allows the final hair style to include curly hair while adding a curl, color or fitting to be attached to the hairpiece. As with the previous embodiments, one or more of the

weft yarns

28, 114 and 116 may include one or more additional wires 120 or reinforcement members or hair strands of different lengths incorporated therein to allow a user to arrange the embodiment into a desired hair pattern having multiple strands.

Fig. 29-30 illustrate another embodiment of the invention in which ponytail 50 is configured as an elongated single or multiple ponytail. As shown in this embodiment, a flexible loop 52 for forming a ponytail is provided. The loop 52 is essentially a continuous strand, loop or elastic band, such as rubber, surrounded or covered by an elastic fabric, forming a continuous loop. The ring 52 may be any size, although in this example, a diameter of about three inches in the normal, non-extended state may be used. Any part or the whole of it can be expanded to several times its normal length, while being foldable and twistable. One end of ponytail 50 of this embodiment includes single strand or multiple strands of hair that are braided into a loop 54 of hair, and loop 52 passes through loop 54 of hair. In this embodiment, the opening of the loop 52 is preferably aligned parallel to the hair loop 54 to allow the ponytail 50 to lie flat once it is placed on the user's head. At the other end 56 of the ponytail 50, the hair strands are twisted and braided into multiple strands or a long single strand. In an example of this embodiment, the hair may be about 62 inches to form an elongated single hair braid of about 31 inches, although any length, style color or hardness may be used.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 29 and 30, the plait 118 can be a single plait as shown in fig. 30, or multiple plaits or twists as shown in fig. 29. The hair braid of this embodiment may include one or more reinforcing members, such as wires 120 or plastic members, to allow the hair braid 118 to be bent or arranged in a desired hair pattern. The embodiment of fig. 29 illustrates the use of multiple hair braids 118 disposed on the flexible loop 52. The ring 52 is similar to the embodiments described above. The loops 54 of the plait 118 are preferably formed by the hair of the plait looping itself when the hairpiece is formed. The embodiment shown in fig. 30 is shown as a single elongate braid 118. In this embodiment, the attachment of the hair braid to the user's head is accomplished by inserting the user's hair through the hair braid loops 52. In each of these embodiments, one or more wires 120 extend longitudinally along the braid to allow the braid 118 to be bent and oriented in a desired configuration. Additionally, the plurality of hair braids 118 of fig. 29 may include wires 120 or flexible materials having different colors, textiles, hardness, or stiffness to facilitate further hair styling.

Finally, it is contemplated that the various components described above may be provided to the end user as a "kit" with instructions for the user to create the desired hair arrangement or hairpiece. For example, the hairpiece may be of the type shown in fig. 1 or 18 to 28, wherein the kit includes each of the elements described above, and the elements are adjusted or assembled by the user. Another kit may be formed from elements from the embodiments described above with respect to fig. 6-17, wherein the elements may be individually packaged and adjusted or assembled by a user. Another kit may be formed from a combination of the elements of the above embodiments. Each of these kits may include descriptions similar to the following to illustrate the ease and simplicity of using the embodiments described above. For example, the above description may instruct the user to use your favorite "hair" set to transform any appearance to create multiple appearances. This can be accomplished by attaching a wig or ponytail to any type of base. The tip is inserted and pushed through any base. The wrap is fixed and the tip is bent and hidden. And adjusting the length. For a shorter look, pull it more through; for longer, pull it through less. Molding, winding, twisting, bending, and forming. For a strap set, attached to any type of base. Hold the strap and attach to any type of base. Tightening and fixing with hair elastic band.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected. Similarly, as noted above, the term "hair" is intended to give its broadest reasonable interpretation, as recited herein and in the appended claims. Additionally, the preferred dimensions described above are intended for illustrative purposes, unless stated in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A removable wig comprising:

a length of hair strands having a first end and a second end;

an attachment member sized and configured to engage a first end of the hair strands in place;

an elongated and flexible spine member attached to the attachment member and extending along at least a portion of the hair strands, wherein the spine member includes a plurality of hair strands extending therefrom.

2. The removable hair piece of claim 1, further comprising the spine member extending along at least one quarter of a distance between the first and second ends of the hair strands.

3. The removable hair piece of claim 1, further comprising the spine member extending along at least half of a distance between the first and second ends of the hair strands.

4. The removable wig of claim 1, wherein the spine member includes the attachment member on one end thereof and the length of hair strands are wrapped around and extend outwardly from the spine member.

5. The removable hairpiece of claim 1 wherein the attachment member is a hair weft thread attachable to a user's head to hold the hairpiece in place on the user's head.

6. The removable hair piece of claim 1, wherein the strands of hair comprise a first material having a first hardness and a second material having a different second hardness.

7. The removable hair piece of claim 1, wherein the hair strand comprises a plurality of strands of different materials.

8. The removable wig of claim 1, wherein the spine member comprises a first material having a first stiffness and a second material having a different second stiffness.

9. A removable wig comprising:

a length of hair strands having a first end and a second end;

an attachment member sized and configured to engage a first end of a length of hair in place;

a plurality of hair strands secured at a first end thereof to the attachment member and having a second end freely extending therefrom; and

an elongated and flexible spine member extending along at least a portion of a hair strand, wherein the spine member includes the attachment member on one end thereof, and a plurality of first ends of the hair strand are wrapped around a longitudinal dimension of the spine member, and a second end of the hair strand extends from the spine member.

10. The removable wig of claim 9, wherein a plurality of tab members extend between the mesh member and the attachment member.

11. The removable wig of claim 9, wherein net member includes a first end and a second end having a longitudinal dimension therebetween, and wherein the first end of the net member extends a greater distance from the attachment member than the second end of the net member, and wherein the strands of hair are fixed along the longitudinal dimension of the net member.

12. The removable hair piece of claim 9, wherein the hair strand is configured as a pony tail and includes at least one elongate member extending between a first end and a second end of the hair strand.

13. The removable hair piece of claim 9, wherein the hair strands are constructed of a plurality of materials having different flexibilities.

14. The removable hair piece of claim 9, wherein the hair strands are comprised of a greater number of first hair strands and a lesser number of second hair strands.

15. The removable hair piece of claim 14, wherein the first hair strand is more flexible than the second hair strand.

16. The removable hair piece of claim 14, wherein the first strand of hair is longer than the second strand of hair.

17. The removable hair piece of claim 14, wherein the first hair strand is configured as a pony tail and the second hair strand is comprised of a rolled sheet.

18. A removable wig for attachment to a user's head, the wig comprising:

a length of hair strands having a first end and a second end;

an attachment member sized and configured to bind a length of hair strands in place on the user's head;

an elongated and flexible spine member extending along at least a portion of a hair strand, wherein the spine member includes the attachment member along one end thereof, and a plurality of first ends of the hair strand are wrapped around a longitudinal dimension of the spine member, and a second end of the hair strand extends from the spine member; and is

Wherein at least one portion of the hair strand has a greater stiffness than another portion of the hair strand, and the hair strand having the greater stiffness extends along a longitudinal dimension of a length of hair.

19. The removable hair piece of claim 18, further comprising the spine member extending along at least one quarter of a distance between the first and second ends of the hair strands.

20. The removable wig of claim 18, further comprising: the attachment member is formed as a strap member.