NL2003374C2

NL2003374C2 - Interchangeable remote control.

Info

Publication number: NL2003374C2
Application number: NL2003374A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Brecht Swanenburg
Original assignee: Neill Europ B V O
Priority date: 2009-08-21
Filing date: 2009-08-21
Publication date: 2011-02-22
Also published as: WO2011021937A1

Description

P29960N LOO/I WO

INTERCHANGEABLE REMOTE CONTROL

The present invention relates to an interchangeable remote control for releasable engagement with a garment, comprising a control device for controlling an electronic device.

5 The applicant has produced wearable electronics products since 2004, where electronics for the electronic devices and remote control modules or keypads are integrated in the garments, for example iPod jackets, iPod backpacks, the Navjacket and the campack. In those products, the remote control is sewn or welded in the garment with a cable that runs towards an electronic device pocket, in which the electronic device can be positioned.

10

There are also control modules in the market, which can e.g. be put in a pocket in a jacket with a transparent plastic window. Others can be clicked somehow in a holder that is sewn on the fabric of a garment, or can be attached with Velcro.

15 The aim of the present invention is to provide an improved interchangeable remote control.

This aim is achieved according to the invention in that the interchangeable remote control further comprises engagement means structured and configured to go through a hole in 20 the garment and engage behind a portion of the garment surrounding the hole. As such, a functionality is added to the garment, like clothing, bags etc. by an interchangeable remote control that can be fixed into a hole in a portion of the garment. The releasable engagement preferably results in a type of fixation of the remote control module with respect to the garment. As such, the integration/fixation method is improved, while the 25 remote control is releasable and interchangeable. As a result, the effect on the garment (design wise, cost wise, property wise etc.) is as little as possible while giving the garment the possibility to be upgraded with more features. Advantageously, the engagement means are of such a design that that the engagement means may disengage for at least 5-500, more preferably 20-200, times, e.g. for washing, replacement and interchange. For 30 the invention, it is not required to detach very easy, aesthetics and elegancy may be of larger importance, but it should be user friendly though.

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Some of the advantages of the releasable engagement of the interchangeable remote control and the garment are the following.

5 Exchangeability. The consumer can add any desired functionality to the garment, provided a module with the desired functionality is available. The user can exchange the remote control module when using another electronic device, such as a new telephone or mp3 player. In addition, this enables the distribution of garments suitable for any remote control module, such that the customer may choose the desired functionality. Opposite to 10 integrated modules, wherein the customer may like the garment, but wants another remote control module. Furthermore, the exchangeability may compensate for differences in lifetime. An average ski-jacket is worn for about 5 years. In that period electronic devices are completely out of date and mostly not compatible anymore with modern electronics devices. Hence, it is possible to replace a module without having to change 15 jacket.

Cost price of the garment. The costs of providing a hole in the garment are significantly lower than the costs of an integrated remote control module. A higher cost price with integrated module results in very high retail prices. In addition, as the costs of holes 20 provided in the garment are preferably less than a dollar (possibly in the order of a few cents) large scale implementation becomes possible. The costs of sewing, stitching or welding in a dedicated keypad in an existing piece of garment are significantly larger. Also the costs of making pockets, transparent windows etc. are larger than making a hole, in particular a hole surrounded by a reinforced portion of garment. Another advantage of a 25 hole, in particular a reinforced hole, is that it does not necessarily affect the design of the garment as much an existing wearable remote controls do. Thus, the consumer can buy the garment for a normal price, while having the option to buy upgrades on additional functionalities.

30 Stand-alone use of the remote control. The remote control can also be used outside clothing, such as on a desk or in a garment. On desk, it is possible to position the remote control in a docking station.

RMA only of the broken remote control module. RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) 35 is a transaction whereby the recipient of a product arranges to return goods to the supplier to have the product repaired or replaced or in order to receive a refund or credit for another product from the same retailer or corporation. Opposite to integrated modules, -3- wherein when the electronics break; the whole garment has to be replaced. In addition, the consumer has to arrange another jacket in the meantime.

Less influence of electronics development lead time. Up to date remote control modules 5 for up to date electronic devices can be engaged with up to date garments. Opposite to integrated modules, wherein the electronics need to be ready before the garments are ready, meaning electronics have to be ready 1,5 year before introduction date. In that time electronics are already old and in many times not compatible anymore.

10 Sales and customer service in correct channel: separate selling of the interchangeable remote controls and the garment. Garments may be sold in fashion shops, and remote control modules in electronics shops. Sales and service of the remote control module, which can be complex electronics, can be done by a specialized party. When it comes to advanced electronics products, clothing shops cannot explain the product properly. In 15 addition, garment brands are not specialized in servicing customers with problems in electronics. Furthermore, the distribution can take place in the correct channels. This is beneficial e.g. in customs, wherein integrated electronics in garments can cause problems.

20 Production. Most Chinese apparel and accessories manufacturers do not have a license to work with electronics products in their garments.

Preferably, the interchangeable remote control according to the invention is small, durable and robust.

25

Most preferably the interchangeable remote control according to the invention is waterproof. In a possible embodiment, the interchangeable remote control is encapsulated completely in a suitable plastic, e.g. in silicone flexible pcb.

30 The interchangeable remote control can have a housing or (waterproof) encapsulation, made of a textile, fabric, or any type of plastic, produced in any suitable way.

Preferably, the interchangeable remote control, or at least a major portion thereof, is flexible.

Preferably the interchangeable remote control is washable together with the garment, preferably surviving even laundry machine washing at 60 °C, although one of the 35 -4- advantages of the releasable engagement is that the interchangeable remote control is detachable from the garment before washing the garment.

The electronic device may be an audio, video, computer, gaming, navigation or telephone 5 device, or a device that combines multiple of these functions.

The electronic device controllable by the interchangeable remote control is preferably a personal portable electronics device. Examples of personal portable electronics devices are cell phones, personal digital assistants, digital cameras, digital electronic games, 10 portable music players such as mp3 and mp4 players, (mini-)laptops, minicomputers, GPS-navigator, and any type of sensor and body monitoring devices, such as heart beat sensors, temperature sensors, etc.

It is conceivable that the electronic device controllable by the interchangeable remote 15 control is a home or office appliance, such as a coffee machine, a front door or garage door, or a car door, or a secured access door device. Another type of electronic device may e.g. be a ski-lift.

Various embodiments of the control device for controlling an electronic device are 20 conceivable. An iPod control may be used to control an iPod or iPhone. Alternatively, the control device may control a common Bluetooth handsfree device, working (via Bluetooth-technology) with all types of mobile phones.

The control device preferably comprises one or more user operable input devices, such as 25 a push button, switch button, joystick, rotation button, softpad, keypad, e.g. with softswitch technology or with microswitches etc. etc.

Preferably, the control device allows to control one or more of the following functions of the electronic device: play/pause, rewind, fast forward, volume up, volume down, pick up/ 30 hang up the phone, etc etc.

It is also conceivable that the control device comprises one or more sensors that are adapted to control, e.g. activate and/or deactivate, one or more functions of the electronic device controlled by said control device. For example at least one of a: light, temperature, 35 pressure or moisture sensor may be provided. In an embodiment, it is conceivable that the consumer has his cell phone with vibrate function in his pocket, a bluetooth headset installed in the car, and a interchangeable remote control according to the invention -5- engaged in his jacket. When someone calls, the phone vibrates and it is possible to pick up the phone by the interchangeable remote control: not only by pressing a button, but also by touching the vibrating phone with the pressure sensor provided in the interchangeable remote control.

5

In a preferred embodiment, the interchangeable remote control is provided with more than one user operable input devices. It is also conceivable that two user operable input devices, e.g. two buttons, are provided, possibly with a combined functionality.

10 The remote control module is adapted for releasable engagement with a garment, which may be any type of fashion article or sportswear, such as clothing, performance outdoor wear, active wear, jackets, vests, shirts, upholstery, pants or trousers. The fashion article may also be an accessory, such as a belt, armband, hat, purse, glove, shoe, bag, etc. Possibly, the invention is used in a garment in combination with a pocket for the electronic 15 device also being provided by the garment, e.g. for a mobile phone or iPod. Also, the invention can be used in combination with pockets for headphones in the hood of a sweat or in hats, like audio beanies.

Preferably, the engagement means comprise at least a portion of the control device. As 20 such, at least a portion of the control device goes through the hole in the garment and possibly a portion of the control device engages behind a portion of the garment surrounding the hole. This is advantageous because as a result a user interactive part of the interchangeable remote control, the control device or user input device, can be arranged to be approachable from the outside of the garment. Thus, the consumer will be 25 able to access the control device in a garment from the exterior, e.g. at the outside of a bag or a coat. The rest of the interchangeable remote control can then find itself inside of the garment, thereby in a more shielded location.

Preferably the remote control is embodied such that, when fitted with a portion thereof 30 from the inside of the garment through a hole in the garment (preferably with at least a portion of the control device), a portion of the remote control containing, preferably a major, portion of the electronics of the remote control finds itself on the inside of the garment, said portion being bigger than the hole. By showing only part of the interchangeable remote control and 'hiding' the rest behind the fabric of the garment, this 35 gives the garment better aesthetics. The remaining portion of the interchangeable remote control, housing a portion of the electronics and possibly also a power source, is preferably as small as possible, the less high the better.

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According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferred that the dimension of the engagement means exceed the dimension of the hole, such that after engagement of the interchangeable remote control or element with the garment the engagement means entirely cover the hole. Preferably the engagement means are sized and embodied to 5 cover - when fitted - the hole in a watertight manner. In such an embodiment, it is particularly preferred that upon engagement of the element or interchangeable remote control with the garment the hole provided in a portion of reinforced fabric is entirely covered by the element or interchangeable remote control, and that at least the portion of the element or interchangeable remote control covering the hole is waterproof. More 10 preferably, the entire element or interchangeable remote control is waterproof.

According to a preferred embodiment, the interchangeable remote control is provided with a wireless communication means, to allow for wireless control of the electronic device. This is advantageous as then it is no longer required to provide a cable in the garment, 15 which makes the garment less prone to damage. Cables running through the garment also restrict the freedom in design. Preferably, the wireless remote control comprises a power source. The power source may be any type of battery, preferably having a long life-cycle such as Li-ion based batteries. Preferably, but not necessarily, the battery is of a rechargeable type. The type of communication between the control device of the 20 interchangeable remote control and the electronic device can e.g. be via Bluetooth, IR, RF transmitters/receivers etc.

In a possible embodiment the remote control is provided with a rechargeable battery and an associated contactless battery loading arrangement, e.g. a coil, preferably the remote 25 control having a waterproof housing or encapsulation.

A second aspect of the invention relates to an element for engagement with garment. The aim of the invention is to provide an improved element, preferably of a type suitable to exchange with a interchangeable remote control according to the first aspect of the 30 invention. As such, the element preferably engages in the same, reinforced hole as the first aspect of the invention.

The element according to the second aspect of the invention comprises engagement means structured and configured to go through a hole in the garment and engage behind 35 a portion of the garment surrounding the hole, wherein the portion of garment surrounding the hole is reinforced with an eyelet, and wherein the dimension of the engagement means exceed the dimension of the hole, such that after engagement of the element with -7- the garment the element entirely cover the hole, and wherein preferably the engagement means are waterproof to cover the hole in a watertight manner.

The element according to the second aspect of the invention may comprise electronics, 5 and preferably also includes a power source, e.g. a (rechargeable) battery. For example, the engagement means comprise a light, e.g. a LED light, and a control device for controlling the light. The light may be of a torch type to find your way, or alternatively be suitable as a warning light.

10 Other electronic elements according to the second aspect of the invention are suitable to be used e.g. as an avalanche transmitter/ receiver, to dial an emergency number, etc. etc. It is also conceivable that the element according to the second aspect of the invention comprises a transmitter/ receiver for sending/ receiving data such as position information, radio, internet, an RFID module for entrance in buildings, ski-lifts, etc, a GPS, etc. etc.

15 Other possible elements according to the second aspect of the invention include a camera, speaker, usb-stick, distance tracker or online profiling.

Also non-electronic elements according to the second embodiment of the invention are conceivable. Preferably, the engagement means are waterproof to cover the hole in a 20 watertight manner. As such, the element closes the hole for water etc. Alternative nonelectronic elements include expression items, like badges, buttons, pictures etc. The elements may be of customizable color, pattern or image. A preferred non-electronic element comprises a closable inner space for storing small articles.

25 According to both aspects of the invention, it is preferred that the provision of the hole in the garment affects the technical properties of the garment as little as possible, such as breathability, stretch, (light) weight, packable, tensile strength etc. Also after engagement of the element or interchangeable remote control and the hole in the garment the technical properties are affected as little as possible, including insulating properties, warmth, 30 waterproofness of the garment. In addition, the combination of hole and element or interchangeable remote control preferably affects the wear comfort as little as possible. Thus, preferably the element or interchangeable remote control is not very bulky and heavy, and should not restrict movements of the user.

35 Preferably, the engagement means comprise a resilient portion to go through the hole in the garment and engage in a snap-fit manner behind the portion of the garment surrounding the hole. In an advantageous embodiment, such a resilient portion is stud -8- having a cross-section of a trapezium or mushroom shape. The stud extends outward from the remaining portion of the interchangeable remote control or element, wherein the side of the stud attached to the remaining interchangeable remote control or element is smaller than the opposite parallel side of the trapezium. Both sides are after assembly 5 essentially parallel to the portion of fabric surrounding the hole. The two side parts of the trapezium preferably include a sharp angle with the smaller side of the trapezium attached to the remaining portion of the interchangeable control or element, enabling the snap-fit engagement. The sharp angle may be between 45 and 90°, more preferably between 70 and 85°, in particular 80°.

10

Other possible engagement means structured and configured to go through a hole in the garment and engage behind a portion of the garment surrounding the hole may comprise snapping fingers or other clicking portions, screwthread (wherein preferably the hole in the garment is provided with complementary screwthread), sticking means, hook-and-loop 15 (e.g. Velcro), magnetic means, etc. etc.

It is also conceivable that the engagement means of the interchangeable remote control comprise multiple parts. E.g. a first part may go through a hole in the garment, while a second part may engage behind a portion of the garment surrounding the hole. These two 20 parts may engage in a snapping or clicking manner, or engage in a screwing or magnetic manner etc. etc.

Preferably, the engagement means are of a color, type and material matching or in contrast with the garment, and possibly also of a fabric/ material matching the garment. In 25 addition, it may be beneficial to have different styles of the engagement means, suitable for active garment and/ or casual garment. The idea is to have a standard for engagement in all garments, so that exchangeability and modularity is maximized.

The hole in the garment may be of any shape, such as circular, ellipse, rectangular, 30 polygonal, star-shape but also more split-like. It is conceivable that the interchangeable remote control according to the invention is suitable to engage with an ordinary buttonhole, already provided in many types of garment. Most preferred is the round shape of a standard shape eyelet.

35 In a preferred embodiment, the portion of the garment surrounding the hole is reinforced, e.g. a reinforced portion of fabric of the garment. The reinforcement may contribute to the amount of fixing when the interchangeable remote control is engaged to the garment.

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Examples of reinforcements of the hole in the fabric are: eyelets, e.g. of metal or plastics, of any shape (round, ellipse, rectangular, polygonal, star-shape, comprising cutouts and/ or additions etc. etc.) or a number of eyelets. Reinforcement may also be obtained by welded tape or welded, glued, stitched reinforcement part of fabric, plastic, steel etc..

5 Other types of reinforcement include piping, webbing, hem, a stitched of welded backing, a local coating or laminate on the fabric. Most preferred is a reinforcement in the shape of an eyelet.

The hole in the garment can be positioned virtually anywhere on the garment. Preferred 10 positions include: the sleeve of jackets or sweats, in the placket of jackets, in het chest, in the belly pocket of jackets, sweats, in the bottom seam of jackets, sweats, or t-shirts, in the shoulder strap of a backpack or bag, in the front of a bag, in the pockets, e.g. of pants, in the front of a belt, in the back of hand gloves, in a bracelet or armband. To guarantee the waterproof quality and/or insulation properties of a garment, it may be preferred to 15 position the hole in a pocket, or place a pocket behind the hole, so that the “line of sight through the hole” is obscured by at least one face of the pocket.

According to both aspects of the invention, it is preferred to provide the interchangeable remote control or element further with fixation means structured and configured to fixate 20 the interchangeable remote control or element with respect to the garment such that after engagement of the interchangeable remote control or element with the garment the interchangeable remote control or element is fixated with respect to the garment, preferably said fixation preventing rotation of the remote control with respect to the garment once fitted. Such fixation means may comprise additional engagement means, or 25 result from the asymmetrical shape of the engagement means and/or the hole and/or the reinforcement of the portion of garment surrounding the hole. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to position the hole next to a seam or within a pocket, to prevent the interchangeable remote control or element from rotating.

30 The present invention also relates to a remote control or element according to one or both aspects of the invention in combination with a garment, preferably the combination with a garment with a hole through which the engagement means go.

The present invention also relates to the combination above, further comprising an 35 electronic device to be controlled by the remote control, e.g. a personal electronics device.

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The present invention also relates to a garment fitted, and/or offered for sale, e.g. in a sale packaging, with a remote control or element according to one or both of the aspects of the invention.

5 The present invention also relates to a remote control device or element according to one or both of the aspects of the invention for use with a garment.

The present invention also relates to a set of multiple different remote controls according to the invention, each remote control being adapted for controlling a different electronic 10 device, e.g. for a personal audio device and for a cell phone, each of the remote controls having engagement means with identical dimensions as related to the fitting thereof through a hole in a garment, thereby allowing e.g. a user to select either one of the remote controls based on the electronic device he is going to carry and fit the remote control onto an eyelet of the garment.

15

The present invention also relates to the method of remotely operating an electronic device, e.g. a personal electronic device, wherein use is made of a remote control device or element according to one or both of the aspects of the invention.

20 The invention is further elucidated with respect to the drawings, in which: fig. 1a shows an example of an interchangeable remote control according to the invention in a perspective view; fig. 1 b shows an example of an element according to the invention in a perspective view; fig. 2a shows yet an alternative interchangeable remote control according to the invention 25 in a perspective view; fig. 2b shows the interchangeable remote control of fig. 2a in cross-section; figs. 3a-c show a combination of a piece of garment and yet alternative interchangeable remote controls according to the invention in cross-section; figs. 4a, b show yet another interchangeable remote control according to the invention, 30 engaged with a piece of garment; figs. 4c-4i show yet another interchangeable remote control according to the invention, engaged with a piece of garment; fig. 5 shows alternative shapes of holes provided in the garment; figs. 6a-6t show alternative locations of the interchangeable remote control according to 35 the invention attached to a garment.

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In fig. 1a an example of an interchangeable remote control 1 according to the invention is shown, here having a housing of an essentially rectangular design having a circular shaped resilient stud portion 1b protruding from an essentially rectangular base portion 1a.

5

Preferably, but not necessarily, the base portion 1a comprises a power source and electronics for controlling an electronic device.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the stud portion 1b comprises a 10 control or user input device for controlling the electronic device. In the shown embodiment, the stud portion 1b acts as an engagement means structured and configured to go through a hole in the garment and engage or grip behind a portion of the garment surrounding the hole. This is schematically indicated by the arrow A in the upper portion of fig. 1a.

15

In fig. 1a, an eyelet 2 is shown, which is preferably provided in the garment and serves to reinforce the portion of garment surrounding the hole as well as enhance the stability of the connection with the remote control. The eyelet as shown is of a circular shape.

20 The eyelet has an inner diameter slightly less than a corresponding diameter of the stud portion 1b. Because, according to a preferred embodiment, the stud portion 1b is made of resilient material, the stud portion 1 b is able to go through the eyelet 2 of slightly smaller diameter, and because of the resiliency, engage behind the eyelet 2.

25 The example of the eyelet 2 is shown in more detail in the lower portion of fig. 1a. It is visible that the eyelet comprises an annular or tubular portion 2b, adapted to be inserted through the hole in the garment and connected to the garment to reinforce the portion of garment surrounding the hole provided in the garment, thus creating a reinforced hole.

The tubular portion can be inserted through the hole and then, helped by a dedicated tool, 30 be folded, e.g. around a ring at the back of the fabric, so that a reinforcement of the hole is accomplished. The eyelet further comprises a circular ring-shaped portion 2a connected to and extending radially outwards and perpendicular to the end of the tubular portion 2b, which forms the visible side of the eyelet once it is assembled to the garment. It is possible to place visible markings, e.g. a logo, on this ring-shaped portion 2a.

Fig. 1b shows an element 10 according to the second aspect of the present invention, e.g. a badge. An eyelet 2 similar to the eyelet shown in fig. 1a is used to reinforce the portion 35 -12- of fabric of the garment surrounding the hole provided in the garment. For reasons of simplicity, only the eyelet and not the garment is shown. The element 10 is of an essentially circular design having a circular shaped stud portion 10b protruding from an essentially circular base portion 10a. On top of the stud portion a 'play sign' 10e is 5 indicated. In the shown embodiment, the stud portion 10b act as engagement means structured and configured to go through the eyelet 2 provided in the garment to reinforce a hole and engage behind the eyelet. This is schematically indicated by the arrow B in the upper portion of fig. 1b.

10 In the lower portion of fig. 1b, the stud portion 10b is shown from a side view in more detail. The stud portion 10b here has a trapezium or mushroom cross-section, and is made of resilient material. The stud portion 10b extends outward from the remaining base portion 10a of the interchangeable remote control 10. The diameter 10f of the stud attached to the base portion 10a is smaller than the opposite parallel side of the trapezium 15 10c. Both sides are after assembly essentially parallel to the portion of fabric surrounding the hole, in particular to the ring-shaped portion 2a of the eyelet. The two side parts 10d of the trapezium include a sharp angle a with the smaller side of the trapezium attached to the base portion 10a of the interchangeable remote control, enabling the snap-fit engagement. The sharp angle a in this embodiment includes 70-75°.

20

In figs. 2a and 2b an interchangeable remote control 20 according to the invention is shown. Remote control 20 has a housing or body comprising a base portion 20a. The base portion has a height d1, which may e.g. be between 5 and 20 mm, preferably less than 15 mm, even more preferably less than 10 mm.

25

As is preferred the base portion 20a of the housing has a trapezium shape when seen in top view. This unique shape is in particular beneficial to fixate the position of the base portion 20a, as this may ensure a unique fixation of the remote control 20 with respect to the garment to which it is to be engaged. For example, the remote control 20 may be 30 positioned in a pocket or the like in the garment. As a result of the unique trapezium shape, only one orientation of the base portion 20a is possible to fit it into the pocket or the like.

A stud portion 20b protrudes from the base portion 20a. In this embodiment, the stud 35 portion 20b comprises a control or user input device, here a joystick 20c, which operates as a control device for controlling an electronic device. The lower portion 20g of the stud portion 20b by way of example is mushroom-shaped and has a height d2, which is -13- preferably between 3 and 7 mm, more preferably 5 ± 1 mm. In the top view visible in fig.

2a signs 20e for 'forward', 'backwards','+' and '-' are indicated on top of the lower portion 20g of the stud portion 20b. The joystick 20c protrudes further outwards from the plane 20f on which these signs are indicated. The upper portion 20h of the stud portion 20b 5 comprises the operable part of the joystick, and has a height d3, which is preferably between 2 and 6 mm, more preferably 4 ± 1 mm.

In the cross-sectional view of fig 2b, it is visible that the base portion 20a of the interchangeable remote control 20 comprises an antenna 21. An IC 22 is also provided.

10

The base portion 20a may further comprise a second control device, which is not visible in this figure. This second control device may e.g. be provided with a push button. This second control device may e.g. be an on/ off switch for activating the interchangeable remote control 20.

15

In figs. 3a-3c a piece of garment 30 is schematically shown in a side cross-sectional view. The garment is provided with a hole 31, and the portion of garment surrounding the hole is indicated with reference number 32. In the shown embodiment, the portion of garment surrounding the hole is reinforced with an eyelet of a different material, such as a metal or 20 plastic eyelet.

In fig. 3a, the interchangeable remote control 40 according to the invention is shown very schematically, but it is clear that in this embodiment the interchangeable remote control 40 is made of a two-part construction, comprising an upper part 40a and a lower part 40b.

25

Upper part 40a here comprises a base portion 40c, which may e.g. comprise the power source and electronics for controlling the electronic device.

The interchangeable remote control 40 comprises engagement means structured and 30 configured to go through the hole 31 in the garment 30 and engage behind the portion of the garment 32 surrounding the hole 31. The engagement means in this embodiment are formed by an upper stud portion 40d extending downwards from base portion 40c, which may engage, e.g. magnetically or with Velcro to lower stud portion 40e provided on the lower part 40b of the interchangeable remote control. The lower part 40b in this 35 embodiment comprises lower stud portion 40e, which is attached to an engagement portion 40f of a dimension exceeding the dimension of the hole 31. Possibly, the control device is provided in this engagement portion 40f.

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In fig. 3b, the interchangeable remote control 40' is made of a two-part construction, comprising an upper part 40a' and a lower part 40b'. Upper part 40a' comprises a base portion 40c', which may e.g. comprise the power source and electronics for controlling the 5 electronic device. The interchangeable remote control 40 comprises engagement means structured and configured to go through the hole 31 in the garment 30 and engage behind the portion of the garment 32 surrounding the hole 31. The engagement means in this embodiment are formed by an upper stud portion 40d' extending downwards from base portion 40c', which may engage, e.g. magnetically or with Velcro to the lower part 40b' of 10 the interchangeable remote control. The lower part 40b' in this embodiment comprises an engagement portion 40f of a dimension exceeding the dimension of the hole 31. Possibly, the control device is provided in this engagement portion 40f.

In fig. 3c, the interchangeable remote control 40" is made of a one-part construction, 15 comprising a base portion 40f", which may e.g. comprise the power source and electronics for controlling the electronic device. The interchangeable remote control 40 comprises engagement means structured and configured to go through the hole 31 in the garment 30 and engage behind the portion of the garment 32 surrounding the hole 31.

The engagement means in this embodiment are formed by a stud portion 40e" extending 20 upwards from base portion 40f",

In figs. 4a and 4b a portion of a interchangeable remote control 50' according to the invention is shown. The shown interchangeable remote control 50' comprises a control device, extending from a base portion (not visible) of the interchangeable remote control. 25 In fig. 4b, operation of the control device by pushing is shown. The garment 60' is provided with a hole (not visible), through which the interchangeable remote control 50' is engaged. The portion of the garment surrounding the hole is a reinforced portion of fabric 61' of the garment. In the assembled situation shown in figs. 4a and 4b, the control device is visible, extending through the hole in the garment (not visible), engaging behind the 30 reinforced portions of garment 61 surrounding the hole.

In figs. 4c-4i a portion of a interchangeable remote control 50 according to the invention is shown. The interchangeable remote control 50 is shown in an enlarged top view and side view in fig. 4i. The shown interchangeable remote control 50 comprises two control 35 devices 51, 52, extending from a base portion 53 of the interchangeable remote control.

-15-

The garment 60 is provided with a hole (not visible), through which the interchangeable remote control 50 is engaged. The portion of the garment surrounding the hole is a reinforced portion of fabric 61 of the garment. In the assembled situation shown in figs. 4c-4h, the two control devices 51, 52, are visible, extending through holes in the garment (not 5 visible), engaging behind the reinforced portions of garment 61 surrounding the holes.

In figs. 4c-4h, possible operations of the control devices are visible. In the shown embodiment, the control devices 51, 52 are rotatable buttons which are allowed to rotate independently of each other. In addition, as is shown in fig. 4e, the control device 51 may 10 not only be a rotatable button but also a push-button. The combined operation of both control devices 51, 52 may increase the functionality of the interchangeable remote control 50.

In fig. 5 alternative shapes of holes provided in the garment are shown. From left to right: 15 round, ellipse, rectangular with rounded edges, rectangular with sharp edged, polygonal, star-shaped. The shapes in the second row are proved with cut-outs, while the shapes in the third row are provided with additions. The portion of garment surrounding the hole preferably has the same shape as the hole. The engagement means of the interchangeable remote control may have a similar shape, although this is not 20 indispensible to achieve an engagement according to the invention. An advantage of the hole having an asymmetrical shape, such as the holes provided with cut-outs or additions, is that the asymmetry of the hole, in combination with a similar asymmetry of the engagement means of the interchangeable remote control, guarantees some fixation of the interchangeable remote control when engaged with the garment, preferably preventing 25 rotation of the remote control about the axis of the hole in the garment.

In figs. 6a-6t alternative locations of a hole 70 suitable for engagement with a interchangeable remote control according to the first aspect of the invention, or an element according to the second aspect of the invention are shown.

30

In particular in fig. 6a on the sleeve of sweat 69 is shown.

In fig. 6b on the sleeve of a jacket 75, which jacket 75 as shown is furthermore provided with speaker pockets 71, a cable tunnel 72, a device pocket 73, and a battery pocket 74. 35 fig. 6c shows hole 70 on the sleeve of a jacket 76. In fig. 6d on the sleeve of sweat 77, furthermore provided with speaker pockets 78, a cable tunnel 79 and a device pocket 80.

-16-

In fig. 6e hole 70 is provided in the sleeve of a jacket 81, which is furthermore provided with a device pocket 82, a cable tunnel 83 and speaker pockets 84.

In figs. 6f and 6g the hole 70 is provided in the placket of jackets 85 and 86. Jacket 86 is 5 furthermore provided with a battery pocket 87, a device pocket 88, a cable tunnel 89 and speaker pockets 90.

In fig. 6h the hole 70 is provided on the chest portion of a jacket 91, which jacket is furthermore provided with a device pocket 92 and a cable tunnel 93.

10

In fig. 6i the hole 70 is provided in the belly pocket of sweats 94. Sweats 94 is further similar to sweats 77 shown in fig. 6d. In fig. 6j the hole 70 is provided in the belly pocket of a jacket 95. Jacket 95 is further similar to jacket 86 shown in fig. 6g. In fig. 6k the hole 70 is provided in the bottom seam of sweat 96. Sweat 96 is further similar to sweat 77 shown 15 in fig. 6d.

In figs. 6I - 6p the hole 70 is provided on a backpack. In figs. 6l-6o the hole 70 is provided on the shoulder strap 101 of backpack 100. Backpack 100 may further be provided with a speaker pocket 102, a cable tunnel 103 and a device pocket 104. Alternatively, as shown 20 in fig. 6s, the hole 70 may be provided in the front of a bag 100.

Yet alternative locations of hole 70 are shown in figs. 6q-6t: in the pocket 106 of pants 105, in the front of a belt 110, in the back of gloves 112 or in an armband or bracelet 115.

25 The invention can be summarized according to the following clauses: 1. Interchangeable remote control for releasable engagement with garment, comprising a control device for controlling an electronic device, characterized in that the interchangeable remote control further comprises engagement means structured and 30 configured to go through a hole in the garment and engage behind a portion of the garment surrounding the hole.

2. Interchangeable remote control according to clause 1, wherein the engagement means comprise at least a portion of the control device.

35 3. Interchangeable remote control according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the dimension of the engagement means exceed the dimension of the hole, such that after engagement -17- of the interchangeable remote control with the garment the engagement means entirely cover the hole, and wherein preferably the engagement means are sized and adapted to cover the hole in a watertight manner.

5 4. Interchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the engagement means comprise a resilient portion to go through the hole in the garment and engage in a snap-fit manner behind the portion of the garment surrounding the hole.

5. Interchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein 10 the portion of the garment surrounding the hole is reinforced.

6. Interchangeable remote control according to clause 5, wherein the portion of garment is reinforced with an eyelet, preferably an eyelet made of metal or plastics.

15 7. Interchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the interchangeable remote control further comprises fixation means structured and configured to fixate the interchangeable remote control with respect to the garment such that after engagement of the interchangeable remote control with the garment the interchangeable remote control is fixated with respect to the garment, preferably such that 20 the remote control does not rotate with respect to the about the portion of the engagement means going through the hole.

8. Interchangeable remote control according to clause 7, wherein the fixation means comprise a resilient portion structured and configured to go through a hole in the garment 25 and engage in a snap-fit manner behind a portion of the garment surrounding the hole.

9. Interchangeable remote control according to clause 7 or 8, wherein the engagement means, the hole and/ or the portion of the garment surrounding the hole are of asymmetrical shape, such that after engagement of the interchangeable remote control 30 with the garment the interchangeable remote control is fixated with respect to the garment.

10. Interchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the interchangeable remote control is wireless, and wherein the wireless remote 35 control preferably comprises a power source.

11. In combination: -18- - an interchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding clauses, and - garment comprising a hole and a portion surrounding the hole.

12. Element for engagement with garment, characterized in that the element 5 comprises engagement means structured and configured to go through a hole in the garment and engage behind a portion of the garment surrounding the hole, wherein the portion of garment surrounding the hole is reinforced with an eyelet, and wherein the dimension of the engagement means exceed the dimension of the hole, such that after engagement of the element with the garment the element entirely cover the hole, and 10 wherein preferably the engagement means are waterproof to cover the hole in a watertight manner.

13. Element according to clause 12, wherein the element comprises a power source and wherein the element comprises electronics, such as a transmitter, receiver or light.

15 14. Element according to clause 13, wherein the engagement means comprise a light, e.g. a LED light, and a control device for controlling the light.

15. Element according to clause 12, wherein the element comprises a closable inner 20 space for storing small articles.

Claims

Interchangeable remote control for releasable coupling to a garment, comprising an operating device for operating an electronic device, characterized in that the exchangeable remote control further comprises coupling means which are constructed and configured to pass through a hole in the garment and behind a part of the garment that surrounds the hole. 10

Interchangeable remote control according to claim 1, wherein the coupling means comprise at least a part of the operating device.

3. Interchangeable remote control according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the size of the coupling means exceeds the size of the hole, such that after coupling of the exchangeable remote control with the garment, the coupling means completely cover the hole, and wherein the coupling means are preferably dimensioned and arranged to cover the hole in a watertight manner.

Interchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling means comprise a resilient portion adapted to pass through the hole in the garment and to snap behind the portion of the garment surrounding the hole in a snap-fit manner.

Interchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the part of the garment surrounding the hole is reinforced.

6. Interchangeable remote control according to claim 5, wherein the part of clothing is reinforced with an eye, preferably an eye made of metal or plastic.

7. Interchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the interchangeable remote control further comprises fixation means which are constructed and configured to fix the interchangeable remote control relative to the garment, such that after interchangeable remote control with the garment the interchangeable remote control is fixed relative to the item of clothing, preferably such that the remote control does not rotate about the coupling means protruding through the hole in the item of clothing.

8. Interchangeable remote control according to claim 7, wherein the fastening means comprise a resilient portion that is constructed and configured to pass through a hole in the garment and snap-fit behind a portion of the garment that surrounds the hole.

9. Interchangeable remote control according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the coupling means, the hole and / or the part of the garment surrounding the hole are of asymmetrical shape, such that after coupling of the exchangeable remote control with the garment the exchangeable remote control until the garment is fixed.

The exchangeable remote control according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the exchangeable remote control is wireless, and wherein the wireless remote control preferably comprises a power source.

11. In combination: 20. an exchangeable remote control according to one or more of the preceding claims, and - an item of clothing comprising a hole and a portion that surrounds the hole.

12. Element for coupling to a garment, characterized in that the element comprises coupling means which are constructed and configured to pass through a hole in the garment and to connect behind a part of the garment surrounding the hole, the part of garment surrounding the hole is reinforced with an eye, and wherein the size of the coupling means exceeds the size of the hole, such that after coupling of the element to the garment the element 30 completely covers the hole, and wherein preferably the coupling means be watertight to seal the hole in a watertight manner.

The element of claim 12, wherein the element comprises a power source and wherein the element comprises electronics, such as a transmitter, a receiver or a light. 35

Element as claimed in claim 13, wherein the coupling means comprise a light, e.g. an LED light, and an operating device for operating the light. -21-

The element of claim 12, wherein the element comprises a lockable interior for storing small items.