INTERCHANGEABLE NAIL SYSTEM

Abstract

A nail system includes a nail component; and a base component. The nail component is configured to attach to the base component, and the base component is configured to attach to a nail plate of a person's digit. The nail component has an upper, outer nail surface that is configured to cover a nail plate and the base component for providing a desired aesthetic presentation of the digit when the nail component is attached to the base component and the base component is attached to the nail plate. In some embodiments, the nail component is configured to detach from the base component for use of another nail component with the base component. The nail component preferably is configured to detach from the base component while the base component is attached to the nail plate for interchanging the nail component with another nail component having a different aesthetic appearance.

Claims

1. A nail system comprising: (a) a nail component; and (b) a base component; (c) wherein the nail component is configured to attach to the base component, and the base component is configured to attach to a nail plate of a person's digit; and (d) wherein the nail component comprises an upper, outer nail surface that is configured to cover a nail plate and the base component for providing a desired aesthetic presentation of the digit when the nail component is attached to the base component and the base component is attached to the nail plate.

2. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the base component comprises a recess within which a protuberance of the nail component is received.

3. The nail system of claim 2, wherein when positioning the protuberance within the recess, the nail component requires a degree of flexion or bending that creates tension in the nail component, which tension is maintained when the protuberance is received within the recess for attachment of the nail component in a fixed disposition on top of the base component.

4. The nail system of claim 3, wherein the nail component defines a recess within which a front of the base component is received for retaining the nail component in a fixed position relative to the base component.

5. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the nail component is configured to detach from the base component for use of the nail component with another base component.

6. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the nail component is configured to detach from the base component while the base component remains attached to a nail plate for interchanging the nail component with another nail component having a different aesthetic appearance.

7. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the different aesthetic appearance comprises a difference in one or more of length, contour, color, or material.

8. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the nail component interlocks in its attachment with the base component.

9. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the nail component is placed on top of and latches in tension onto the base component.

10. The nail system of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive pad or strip for attaching the base component to a nail plate.

11. The nail system of claim 10, wherein the adhesive pad or strip comprises a pull tab for releasing attachment of the adhesive pad or strip.

12. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the nail component is mechanically latched or locked to the base component.

13. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the nail component is attached to the base component through a friction joint.

14. The nail system of claim 1, wherein the nail component fits over and snaps onto the base component.

15-25. (canceled)

26. The nail system of claim 1, wherein one of the nail component and base component comprises one or more recesses and the other of the nail component and the base components comprises one or more protuberances each being received in a said recess when the nail component has been positioned on top of and in covering relation to the base component for latching or locking engagement of the nail component in said position relative to the base component.

27. The nail system of claim 26, wherein, in positioning a said protuberance within a said recess, the nail component requires a degree of flexion or bending that creates tension in the nail component, of which tension at least some is maintained when the protuberance is received within the recess for retaining the nail component in fixed position on top of the base component.

28. The nail system of claim 26, wherein a snap or click is generated upon the protuberance being received within the recess because of said tension.

29. The nail system of claim 26, wherein a shallow groove assists in guiding of the protuberance toward the recess as the nail component is positioned on top of the base component into the fixed position.

30-50. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] One or more preferred embodiments of the invention now will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same elements are referred to with the same reference numerals.

[0040] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention.

[0041] FIG. 2 is another exploded view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 1.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0045] FIG. 6 is an elevational view of a first side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0046] FIG. 7 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0047] FIG. 8 is an elevational view of a front of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0048] FIG. 9 is an elevational view of a back of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a view of a nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0050] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the nail component of FIG. 10.

[0051] FIG. 12 is a bottom plan view of the nail component of FIG. 10.

[0052] FIG. 13 is an elevational view of a first side of the nail component of FIG. 10.

[0053] FIG. 14 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the nail component of FIG. 10.

[0054] FIG. 15 is an elevational view of a front of the nail component of FIG. 10.

[0055] FIG. 16 is an elevational view of a back of the nail component of FIG. 10.

[0056] FIG. 17 is a view of a lower front side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0057] FIG. 18 is a view of the lower front side of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 17.

[0058] FIG. 18B is another view of the nail component like the view of FIG. 18.

[0059] FIG. 19 is a view of an upper back side of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 17.

[0060] FIG. 20 is a view of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 3.

[0061] FIG. 21 is a top plan view of the base component of FIG. 20.

[0062] FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view of the base component of FIG. 20.

[0063] FIG. 23 is an elevational view of a first side of the base component of FIG. 20.

[0064] FIG. 24 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the base component of FIG. 20.

[0065] FIG. 25 is an elevational view of a front of the base component of FIG. 20.

[0066] FIG. 26 is an elevational view of a back of the base component of FIG. 20.

[0067] FIG. 27 is another view of the interchangeable nail system like the view of FIG. 3.

[0068] FIG. 27A is a lengthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system as shown in FIG. 27.

[0069] FIG. 27B is a widthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system as shown in FIG. 27.

[0070] FIG. 27C is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system as shown in FIG. 27.

[0071] FIG. 27D is another lengthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system like that of FIG. 27A.

[0072] FIG. 27E is a closeup of a front portion of the interchangeable nail system as shown in FIG. 27D.

[0073] FIG. 27F is a closeup of a back portion of the interchangeable nail system as shown in FIG. 27D.

[0074] FIG. 28 is a view of the base component of FIG. 20 adhered to a fingernail of a person's hand and ready to receive the nail component of FIG. 10

[0075] FIG. 29 is an isometric view of another preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention.

[0076] FIG. 30 is an elevational view of a first side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0077] FIG. 31 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0078] FIG. 32 is an elevational view of a front of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0079] FIG. 33 is an elevational view of a back of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0080] FIG. 34 is a top plan view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0081] FIG. 35 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0082] FIG. 36 is an isometric view of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0083] FIG. 37 is an elevational view of a first side of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0084] FIG. 38 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0085] FIG. 39 is an elevational view of a front of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0086] FIG. 40 is an elevational view of a back of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0087] FIG. 41 is a top plan view of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0088] FIG. 42 is a bottom plan view of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0089] FIG. 43 is an isometric view of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0090] FIG. 44 is an elevational view of a first side of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0091] FIG. 45 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0092] FIG. 46 is an elevational view of a front of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0093] FIG. 47 is an elevational view of a back of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0094] FIG. 48 is a top plan view of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0095] FIG. 49 is a bottom plan view of the base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 29.

[0096] FIG. 50 is another view like the view of FIG. 29 of the interchangeable nail system.

[0097] FIG. 51 is another view like the view of FIG. 30 of the interchangeable nail system.

[0098] FIG. 52 is a lengthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system as shown in FIG. 50.

[0099] FIG. 53 is a lengthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system as shown in FIG. 51.

[0100] FIG. 54 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system as shown in FIG. 50.

[0101] FIG. 55 is an exploded view of another preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention.

[0102] FIG. 56 is another exploded view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 55.

[0103] FIG. 57 is a view of the base component of FIG. 55 adhered to a fingernail of a person's hand and ready to receive the nail component of FIG. 55.

[0104] FIG. 58 is a view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 55.

[0105] FIG. 59 is a top plan view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 58.

[0106] FIG. 60 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 58.

[0107] FIG. 61 is an elevational view of a first side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 58.

[0108] FIG. 62 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 58.

[0109] FIG. 63 is an elevational view of a front of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 58.

[0110] FIG. 64 is an elevational view of a back of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 58.

[0111] FIG. 65 is a view of a nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 58.

[0112] FIG. 66 is a top plan view of the nail component of FIG. 65.

[0113] FIG. 67 is a bottom plan view of the nail component of FIG. 65.

[0114] FIG. 68 is an elevational view of a first side of the nail component of FIG. 65.

[0115] FIG. 69 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the nail component of FIG. 65.

[0116] FIG. 70 is an elevational view of a front of the nail component of FIG. 65.

[0117] FIG. 71 is an elevational view of a back of the nail component of FIG. 65.

[0118] FIG. 72 is a view of a base component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 58.

[0119] FIG. 73 is a top plan view of the base component of FIG. 72.

[0120] FIG. 74 is a bottom plan view of the base component of FIG. 72.

[0121] FIG. 75 is an elevational view of a first side of the base component of FIG. 72.

[0122] FIG. 76 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the base component of FIG. 72.

[0123] FIG. 77 is an elevational view of a front of the base component of FIG. 72.

[0124] FIG. 78 is an elevational view of a back of the base component of FIG. 72.

[0125] FIG. 74 is a view of a lower front side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 53.

[0126] FIG. 75 is a view of a lower front side of the nail component of FIG. 74.

[0127] FIG. 76 is an exploded view of another preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention.

[0128] FIG. 77 is a view of a bottom of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 76.

[0129] FIG. 78 is a bottom plan view of a person's finger to which the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 76.

[0130] FIG. 79 is another view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 55-56.

[0131] FIG. 80 is another view of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 55-56.

[0132] FIG. 81 is an exploded perspective view of another preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention.

[0133] FIG. 82 is a perspective view of a bottom of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 81.

[0134] FIG. 83 is a bottom plan view of a person's finger to which the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 81.

[0135] FIG. 84 is a view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 81.

[0136] FIG. 85 is a top plan view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 84.

[0137] FIG. 86 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 84.

[0138] FIG. 87 is an elevational view of a first side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 84.

[0139] FIG. 88 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 84.

[0140] FIG. 89 is an elevational view of a front of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 84.

[0141] FIG. 90 is an elevational view of a rear of the interchangeable nail system of FIG. 84.

[0142] FIG. 91 is atop perspective view of a preferred prototype interchangeable nail system in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, which has been reduced to practice.

[0143] FIG. 92 is a bottom perspective view of the preferred prototype interchangeable nail system of FIG. 91.

[0144] FIG. 93 is another bottom perspective view of the preferred prototype interchangeable nail system of FIG. 91, wherein the nail component is removably attached to the base component.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0145] As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (Ordinary Artisan) that the invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being preferred is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. Moreover, an embodiment of the invention may incorporate only one or a plurality of the aspects of the invention disclosed herein; only one or a plurality of the features disclosed herein; or combination thereof. As such, many embodiments are implicitly disclosed herein and fall within the scope of what is regarded as the invention.

[0146] Accordingly, while the invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the invention and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the invention in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

[0147] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the invention be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.

[0148] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used hereinas understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term-differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.

[0149] With regard solely to construction of any claim with respect to the United States, no claim element is to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the explicit phrase means for or step for is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to and should apply in the interpretation of such claim element. With regard to any method claim including a condition precedent step, such method requires the condition precedent to be met and the step to be performed at least once but not necessarily every time during performance of the claimed method.

[0150] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, comprising is open-ended insofar as that which follows such term is not exclusive. Additionally, a and an each generally denotes at least one but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to a picnic basket having an apple is the same as a picnic basket comprising an apple and a picnic basket including an apple, each of which identically describes a picnic basket having at least one apple as well as a picnic basket having apples; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside an apple. In contrast, reference to a picnic basket having a single apple describes a picnic basket having only one apple; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside an apple. In contrast, a picnic basket consisting of an apple has only a single item contained therein, i.e., one apple; the picnic basket contains no other item.

[0151] When used herein to join a list of items, or denotes at least one of the items but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to a picnic basket having cheese or crackers describes a picnic basket having cheese without crackers, a picnic basket having crackers without cheese, and a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside cheese and crackers.

[0152] When used herein to join a list of items, and denotes all of the items of the list. Thus, reference to a picnic basket having cheese and crackers describes a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers, as well as describes a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside cheese and crackers.

[0153] The phrase at least one followed by a list of items joined by and denotes an item of the list but does not require every item of the list. Thus, at least one of an apple and an orange encompasses the following mutually exclusive scenarios: there is an apple but no orange; there is an orange but no apple; and there is both an apple and an orange. In these scenarios if there is an apple, there may be more than one apple, and if there is an orange, there may be more than one orange. Moreover, the phrase one or more followed by a list of items joined by and is the equivalent of at least one followed by the list of items joined by and.

[0154] Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of the invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.

First Embodiment

[0155] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system 100 in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention. FIG. 2 is another exploded view of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 1. The interchangeable nail system 100 comprises a nail component 102, sometimes referred to herein as a nail cover; and a base component 104, sometimes referred to herein as a nail base.

[0156] The nail component 102 is configured to attach to the base component 104, and the base component 104 is configured to attach to a nail plate (fingernail) of a person's digit, such as a finger or thumb. In the nail system 100, the nail component 102 comprises an upper, outer nail surface 106 that covers the nail plate and base component 104. The nail component 102 provides an overall desired aesthetic presentation when the nail component 102 is attached to the base component 104 and the base component 104 is attached to a nail plate.

[0157] The nail component 102 preferably interlocks in its engagement with the base component 104 such that the nail component 102 does not inadvertently detach from the base component 104.

[0158] Furthermore, the nail component 102 and base component 104 are configured to be detachable from each other for interchanging the nail component 102 with one of a plurality of other nail components while the base component 102 remains attached to a person's nail plate. The other nail components preferably have the same structure for removably attaching to the base component 104 and differ in the outer surface appearance, whether in one or more of length, contour, color, or other aesthetic design feature.

[0159] As will be apparent from the following disclosure and figures, the interchangeable nail system 100 that is illustrated includes a nail component 102 that is placed on top of and that latches in tension onto the base component 104. The structure for accomplishing this includes a recess 108 formed in the base component 104 within which a protuberance 110 of the nail component 102 is received. In positioning the protuberance within the recess, the nail component preferably requires a degree of flexion or bending that creates tension in the nail component, which tension is maintained when the protuberance is received within the recess for attachment of the nail component in a fixed disposition on top of the base component 104. The structure also includes a mechanism for retaining a front of the nail component 102 in a fixed position relative to the base component 104 when so tensioned. In the nail system 100, this mechanism comprises a shoulder or wall 112 located on the underside of the nail component 102 that defines a recess 114 which a nose 116 of the base component 104 abuts or extends into and fits as the nail component 102 is positioned and flexed onto the top and in covering relation over of the base component 104.

[0160] FIGS. 3-9 are additional views of the interchangeable nail system 100 wherein the nail component 102 is shown attached to the base component 104. Specifically, FIG. 3 is a view of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 1; FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 3; FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 3; FIG. 6 is an elevational view of a first side of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 3; FIG. 7 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 3; FIG. 8 is an elevational view of a front of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 3; and FIG. 9 is an elevational view of a back of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 3.

[0161] Views of just the nail component 102 of the interchangeable nail system 100 are shown in FIGS. 10-16. Specifically, FIG. 10 is a view of the nail component 102; FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the nail component 102; FIG. 12 is a bottom plan view of the nail component 102; FIG. 13 is an elevational view of a first side of the nail component 102; FIG. 14 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the nail component 102; FIG. 15 is an elevational view of a front of the nail component of FIG. 10; and FIG. 16 is an elevational view of a back of the nail component 102.

[0162] Additionally, FIG. 17 is a view of a lower front side of the interchangeable nail system 100; FIG. 18 is a view of the lower front side of the nail component 102 of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 17; FIG. 18B is another view of the nail component 102 like the view of FIG. 18; and FIG. 19 is a view of an upper back side of the base component 104 of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 17.

[0163] Views of just the base component 104 of the interchangeable nail system 100 are shown in FIGS. 20-26. Specifically, FIG. 20 is a view of the base component 104 of the interchangeable nail system 100 of FIG. 3; FIG. 21 is a top plan view of the base component 104 of FIG. 20; FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view of the base component 104 of FIG. 20; FIG. 23 is an elevational view of a first side of the base component 104 of FIG. 20; FIG. 24 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the base component 104 of FIG. 20; FIG. 25 is an elevational view of a front of the base component 104 of FIG. 20; and FIG. 26 is an elevational view of a back of the base component 104 of FIG. 20.

[0164] FIG. 27 is another view of the interchangeable nail system 100 like the view of FIG. 3. Moreover, FIG. 27A is a lengthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 100 as shown in FIG. 27; FIG. 27B is a widthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 100 as shown in FIG. 27; FIG. 27C is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 100 as shown in FIG. 27; FIG. 27D is another lengthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 100 like that of FIG. 27A; FIG. 27E is a closeup of a front portion of the interchangeable nail system 100 as shown in FIG. 27D; and FIG. 27F is a closeup of a back portion of the interchangeable nail system 100 as shown in FIG. 27D.

[0165] FIG. 28 is a view of the base component 104 of FIG. 20 adhered to a fingernail of a person's hand and ready to receive the nail component 102 of FIG. 10.

[0166] FIGS. 29-35 illustrate another example of the preferred embodiment of the interchangeable nail system 100 in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention. In particular, FIG. 29 is an isometric view of a preferred embodiment of a nail system 150; FIG. 30 is an elevational view of a first side of the interchangeable nail system 150; FIG. 31 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the interchangeable nail system 150; FIG. 32 is an elevational view of a front of the interchangeable nail system 150; FIG. 33 is an elevational view of a back of the interchangeable nail system 150; FIG. 34 is a top plan view of the nail system 150; and FIG. 35 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable nail system 150.

[0167] The interchangeable nail system 150 is like the interchangeable nail system 100 and comprises a nail component 152 and a base component 154. The nail component 152 is configured to attach to the base component 154, and the base component 154 is configured to attach to a nail plate (fingernail) of a person's digit, such as a finger or thumb. In the nail system 150, the nail component 152 comprises an upper, outer nail surface 156 that covers the nail plate and base component 154. The nail component 152 provides an overall desired aesthetic presentation when the nail component 152 is attached to the base component 154 and the base component 154 is attached to a nail plate.

[0168] The nail component 152 preferably interlocks in its engagement with the base component 154 such that the nail component 152 does not inadvertently detach from the base component 154. Furthermore, the nail component 152 and base component 154 are configured to be detachable from each other for interchanging the nail component 152 with one of a plurality of other nail components while the base component 152 remains attached to a person's nail plate. The other nail components preferably have the same structure for removably attaching to the base component 154 and differ in the outer surface appearance, whether in one or more of length, contour, color, or other aesthetic design feature.

[0169] As will be apparent from the following disclosure and figures, the interchangeable nail system 150 that is illustrated includes a nail component 152 that is placed on top of and that latches in tension onto the base component 154. The structure for accomplishing this includes a recess 158 formed in the base component 154 within which a protuberance 160 of the nail component 152 is received. In positioning the protuberance 160 within the recess 158, the nail component 152 preferably requires a degree of flexion or bending that creates tension in the nail component 152, which tension is maintained when the protuberance 160 is received within the recess 158 for attachment of the nail component 152 in a fixed disposition on top of the base component 154. The structure also includes a mechanism for retaining a front of the nail component 152 in a fixed position relative to the base component 154 when so tensioned. In the nail system 150, this mechanism comprises a shoulder or wall 162 located on the underside of the nail component 152 that defines a recess 164 which a nose 166 of the base component 154 abuts or extends into and fits as the nail component 152 is positioned and flexed onto the top and in covering relation over of the base component 154.

[0170] Views of just the nail component 152 of the interchangeable nail system 150 are shown in FIGS. 36-42. In particular, FIG. 36 is an isometric view of the nail component 152 of the interchangeable nail system 150 of FIG. 29; FIG. 37 is an elevational view of a first side of the nail component 152 of FIG. 36; FIG. 38 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the nail component 152 of FIG. 36; FIG. 39 is an elevational view of a front of the nail component 152 of FIG. 36; FIG. 40 is an elevational view of a back of the nail component 152 of FIG. 36; FIG. 41 is a top plan view of the nail component 152 of FIG. 36; and FIG. 42 is a bottom plan view of the nail component 152 of FIG. 36.

[0171] Views of just the base component 154 of the interchangeable nail system 150 are shown in FIGS. 43-49. In particular, FIG. 43 is an isometric view of the base component 154 of the interchangeable nail system 150 of FIG. 29; FIG. 44 is an elevational view of a first side of the base component 154 of FIG. 43; FIG. 45 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the base nail component 154 of FIG. 43; FIG. 46 is an elevational view of a front of the base component 154 of FIG. 43; FIG. 47 is an elevational view of a back of the base component 154 of FIG. 43; FIG. 48 is a top plan view of the base component 154 of FIG. 43; and FIG. 49 is a bottom plan view of the base component 154 of FIG. 43.

[0172] FIG. 50 is another view of the interchangeable nail system 150 like the view of FIG. 29; and FIG. 51 is another elevational view of the second side of the interchangeable nail system 150 like the view of FIG. 30. In contrast to the views of FIGS. 50 and 51, FIG. 52 is a lengthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 150 as shown in FIG. 50, and FIG. 53 is a widthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 150 as shown in FIG. 51. Additionally, FIG. 54 is a lengthwise cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 150 as shown in FIG. 50.

Second Embodiment

[0173] FIGS. 55 and 56 each is an exploded view of a second preferred embodiment of another interchangeable nail system 200 in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention. FIG. 57 is a view of a base component 204 of the interchangeable nail system 200 adhered to a nail plate of a fingernail of a person's hand and ready to receive a nail component 202 of the interchangeably system 200.

[0174] Additional views of the interchangeable nail system 200 are shown in FIGS. 58-63. Specifically, FIG. 58 is a view of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIGS. 55-56; FIG. 59 is atop plan view of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58; FIG. 60 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58; FIG. 61 is an elevational view of a first side of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58; FIG. 62 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58; FIG. 63 is an elevational view of a front of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58; FIG. 64; and FIG. 64 is an elevational view of a back of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58.

[0175] Views of the nail component 202 of the interchangeable nail system 200 are shown in FIGS. 65-71. FIG. 65 is a view of a nail component 202 of the interchangeable nail system 200; FIG. 66 is a top plan view of the nail component 202 of FIG. 65; FIG. 67 is a bottom plan view of the nail component 202 of FIG. 65; FIG. 68 is an elevational view of a first side of the nail component 202 of FIG. 65; FIG. 69 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the nail component 202 of FIG. 65; FIG. 70 is an elevational view of a front of the nail component 202 of FIG. 65; and FIG. 71 is an elevational view of a back of the nail component 202 of FIG. 65.

[0176] Views of the base component 204 of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58 are shown in FIGS. 67-52. Specifically, FIG. 72 is a view of the base component 204 of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58; FIG. 73 is a top plan view of the base component 204 of FIG. 72; FIG. 74 is a bottom plan view of the base component 204 of FIG. 72; FIG. 75 is an elevational view of a first side of the base component 204 of FIG. 72; FIG. 76 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the base component 204 of FIG. 72; FIG. 77 is an elevational view of a front of the base component 204 of FIG. 72; and FIG. 78 is an elevational view of a back of the base component 204 of FIG. 72.

[0177] FIG. 79 is a view of a lower front side of the interchangeable nail system 200 of FIG. 58; and FIG. 80 is a view of a lower front side of the nail component 202 of FIG. 79.

[0178] As shown in the drawings, and like the interchangeable nail systems 100,150 disclosed above, the interchangeable nail system 200 comprises a nail component 202 and a base component 204 to which the nail component 202 is configured to attach, with the base component 204 being configured to attach to a nail plate (fingernail) of a person's digit, such as a finger or a thumb. The nail component 202 comprises an upper, outer nail surface 206 that covers the nail plate and base component 204 and that provides an overall desired aesthetic presentation when the nail component 202 is attached to the base component 204.

[0179] The nail component 202 also preferably interlocks in its engagement with the base component 204 such that the nail component 202 does not inadvertently detach from the base component 204. Furthermore, the nail component 202 and base component 204 are configured to be detachable from each other for interchanging the nail component 202 with one of a plurality of other nail components while the base component 202 remains attached to a person's nail plate. The other nail components preferably have the same structure for removably attaching to the base component 204 and differ in the outer surface appearance, whether in one or more of length, contour, color, or other aesthetic design feature.

[0180] As will be apparent from the foregoing disclosure and drawings, and unlike the interchangeable nail systems 100,150 in which the nail component fits over and snaps onto the base component 104 in a state of tension, the illustrated interchangeable nail system 200 includes a nail component 202 comprising rails or ribs 208 that are received within channels or slots 210 of the base component 204. As illustrated in the drawings, the ribs 208 are located on opposite lateral sides of the nail component 202 and extend from an interior surface thereof, and the slots 210 are located on opposite lateral sides of the base component 204 on an exterior of the base component 204. The opposite lateral side slots 210 extend approximately half of the length L of the base component 204 from a front of the base component 204 toward a back of the base component 204. Furthermore, a back of the nail component 202 slides onto a front of the base component 204 and over the base component 204 in covering relation thereto.

[0181] Alternatively, the nail component may include channels or slots, and the base component may include rails or ribs that are received within the channels or slots for sliding engagement of the nail component and the base component. The nail component also may slide onto the front of the base component toward the back of the base component, or the nail component may slide onto the back of the base component toward the front of the base component. In either scenario, the nail component still covers the base component with the outer surface of the nail component providing an overall desired aesthetic presentation when the nail component is attached to the base component. Still other alternatives include rotating or twisting the nail component into latching engagement with the base component.

[0182] Examples of such alternatives are disclosed in the appendices to the specification, incorporated herein by reference. In this regard, Appendix 1 discloses a nail component having three channels which receive in sliding engagement therein three rails of the base component when the nail component is slid onto the base component. This is also shown in Appendix 2, which includes photograms of a prototype that has been made. Appendix 2 further shows a nail component having a singular, centrally located channel within which a rail or rib of the base component is received when the nail component is slid onto the base component. Additional mechanisms for fastening or otherwise securing a nail component to a base component are disclosed in Appendix 3.

[0183] Returning to the interchangeable nail system 200 illustrated in the drawings, the base component 204 preferably includes a recess 212 in the top of the base component 204 that receives a downward extending protuberance 214 located on an underside of the nail component 202 that is received and seated within the recess 212 when the nail component 202 has been slid into a desired position on top of and in covering relation to the base component 204 for latching or locking engagement of the nail component 202 in said position relative to the base component 204.

[0184] Moreover, in positioning the protuberance 214 within the recess 212, the nail component 202 preferably requires a degree of flexion or bending that creates tension in the nail component 204 as the protuberance 214 is slid in contact with and over a top surface of the base component 204 toward the desired position, of which tension at least some is maintained when the protuberance 214 is received within the recess 212 for fixing the nail component 202 on top of the base component 204. The tension preferably results from a required flexion of the nail component 202 that is required in order for the ribs 208 to be received within the slots 210. A snap or click may be heard or felt upon the protuberance 214 being received within the recess 212 as a result of such tension.

[0185] While not shown, a shallow groove may be provided along the top surface of the base component 204 for assisting in guiding of the protuberance 214 toward the recess 212 as the nail component 202 is slid on top of the base component 204 into the desired position.

Third Embodiment

[0186] A third preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system 300 in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention is represented in FIGS. 81-90. Specifically, FIG. 81 is an exploded view showing a nail component 302 and a base component 304 of the interchangeable nail system 300; FIG. 82 is a view of a bottom of the interchangeable nail system 300; and FIG. 83 is a bottom plan view of a person's finger to which the interchangeable nail system 300 is adhered.

[0187] Additionally, FIG. 84 is a view of atop of the interchangeable nail system 300; FIG. 85 is atop plan view of the interchangeable nail system 300; FIG. 86 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable nail system 300; FIG. 87 is an elevational view of a first side of the interchangeable nail system 300; FIG. 88 is an elevational view of a second, opposite side of the interchangeable nail system 300; FIG. 89 is an elevational view of a front of the interchangeable nail system 300; and FIG. 90 is an elevational view of a back of the interchangeable nail system 300.

[0188] As shown in the drawings, the interchangeable nail system 300 comprises a nail component 302 having an upper, outer nail surface 306 and a base component 304. The nail component 302 is configured to attach to the base component 304, and the base component 304 is configured to attach to a nail plate of a person's digit, such as a finger. The nail component 302 comprises an upper, outer nail surface 306 that covers the nail plate and base component 304 and that provides an overall desired aesthetic presentation when the nail component 302 is attached to the base component 304.

[0189] In accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, the attachment of the nail component 302 to the base component 304, and the attachment of the base component 304 to a nail plate, each is accomplished by providing the base component 104 with a double-sided adhesive such as a pad or strip that has oppositely facing adhesive surfaces.

[0190] In attaching the base component 304 to a nail plate, one adhesive surface of a pad or strip 386 (FIG. 82) is adhered to a bottom surface 310 of the base component 304. The oppositely facing adhesive side of the pad or strip is exposed by peeling away a cover 388 and adhered to the surface of the nail plate as indicated at 392 in FIG. 81. In attaching the nail component 302 to the base component 304, one adhesive surface of a pad or strip is adhered to a top surface of the base component 304. When a nail component 302 is to be attached, a covering is peeled away from the oppositely facing adhesive surface as indicated at 394 in FIG. 81 and an underside of the nail component 302 is adhered thereto.

[0191] Additionally, the base component 304 comprises a pull tab 308 extending from and forming part of or being attached to the pad or strip on the bottom surface of the base component 304. The pull tab 308 is configured to release attachment of the base component 304 to the nail plate. This occurs in response to the application of shear forces thereto resulting from the pulling of tab 308. The pull tab 308 preferably extends beyond the nail plate, under the nail component 302, when the nail system 300 is used as shown in FIG. 83, whereby the pull tab 308 is accessible when the nail system 300 is desired to be removed.

[0192] While it is acknowledged that the nail system 300 does not lend itself to the interchanging of a nail component with the same base component, the nail system nevertheless provides a convenient way to interchange nail components in use for altering a nail's aesthetic appearance by simply pulling the tab, removing the nail system, and installing a new nail system on the nail.

[0193] Additionally, or alternatively, a pull tab preferably is similarly configured to release the attachment of the base component to the nail component. It is also contemplated that, in situations in which a pad or strip is first attached to the underside of the nail component, the nail system 300 would indeed provide interchangeability, wherein the nail component could be interchanged with another nail component without changing the base component.

[0194] Exemplary such pull tabs used with adhesive pads or strips are similar to or the same as the structure and composition of those sold by the 3M Company under the registered trademark COMMAND. Moreover, it is believed that such nail systems provide a more enduring installation than conventional press-on nails.

Additional Embodiments

[0195] Additional preferred embodiments in accordance with aspects and features of the invention are disclosed in each of Appendix 1, Appendix 2, and Appendix 3, all the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. This disclosure includes, inter alia, embodiments in which a nail component is attached to a base component using one or more friction joints.

[0196] A prototype representing a preferred embodiment is shown in FIGS. 91-93. Specifically, FIG. 91 is a top perspective view of the preferred prototype of an interchangeable nail system in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, which has been reduced to practice. FIG. 92 is a bottom perspective view of the preferred prototype interchangeable nail system of FIG. 91; and FIG. 93 is another bottom perspective view of the preferred prototype interchangeable nail system of FIG. 91, wherein the nail component is removably attached to the base component.

[0197] Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the invention has broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the invention.

[0198] Thus, for example, a kit is contemplated within the scope of the invention in which a plurality of nail components with different aesthetic appearances are provided, and in which a plurality of base members for attachment of the nail components are provided, the number of nail components exceeding the number of base components by two, three, four, or five times (the additional base components being unnecessary since the nail components are interchangeable with each other).

[0199] Accordingly, while the invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.