MECHANICALLY COUPLED NAIL TIP

Abstract

The mechanically coupled nail tip includes a base and a tip. The base is attached to the natural nail by an adhesive, and the tip is attached to the base by mechanical coupling. Since the tip is held mechanically and not by an adhesive, the tip can be easily snapped on and off from the base.

Claims

1. An artificial nail system, comprising: a base that comprises a base top side, a base bottom side, and one or more first mechanical features configured to receive one or more corresponding second mechanical features on a tip, wherein: the base bottom side is configured to be attached to a natural nail and the tip, the tip comprising a tip top side, a tip bottom side, and the one or more corresponding second mechanical features, wherein: the one or more second mechanical features of the tip cooperate with the one or more first mechanical features of the base to fit together to couple the tip onto the base such that the tip bottom side becomes attached to the base top side so that there is no relative movement between the base and the tip after attachment, and upon attachment to the base, the tip completely covers the base such that the base is no longer visible.

2. The artificial nail system of claim 1, wherein the one or more first mechanical features and the one or more second mechanical features each have a width that is less than the width of the base.

3. The artificial nail system of claim 2, wherein the one or more first mechanical features are positioned on the base top side, and the one or more second mechanical features are positioned on the tip bottom side.

4. The artificial nail system of claim 3, wherein the one or more first mechanical features and the one or more second mechanical features are positioned offset from a center longitudinal axis of the artificial nail system.

5. The artificial nail system of claim 1, wherein the one or more first mechanical features comprise base tracks.

6. The artificial nail system of claim 5, wherein the one or more second mechanical features comprise tip tracks.

7. The artificial nail system of claim 6, wherein the one or more first mechanical features of the base slides into the one or more second mechanical features of the tip.

8. (canceled)

9. (canceled)

10. (canceled)

11. (canceled)

12. The artificial nail system of claim 3, wherein the one or more first mechanical features and the one or more second mechanical features are positioned along a center longitudinal axis of the artificial nail system.

13. The artificial nail system of claim 12, wherein the one or more first mechanical features comprise one or more ridges.

14. The artificial nail system of claim 13, wherein the one or more ridges comprise a protrusion and a plateau.

15. The artificial nail system of claim 14, wherein the protrusion is an upward protrusion that extends upward from the base top side toward the tip bottom side.

16. The artificial nail system of claim 15, wherein the one or more second mechanical features comprise one or more grooves on the tip bottom side configured to snap onto the upward protrusion to secure the tip to the base.

17. (canceled)

18. (canceled)

19. The artificial nail system of claim 1, wherein the one or more second mechanical features snap onto the one or more first mechanical features to attach together.

20. The artificial nail system of claim 1, wherein the base bottom side is configured to receive an adhesive that is applied to attach the base bottom side to the natural nail, wherein the adhesive is a gel sticker.

21. (canceled)

22. (canceled)

23. (canceled)

24. (canceled)

25. (canceled)

26. (canceled)

27. (canceled)

28. (canceled)

29. (canceled)

30. (canceled)

31. A method of applying an artificial nail system, comprising: attaching a base to a natural nail, wherein the base comprises one or more first mechanical features and has a base top side and a base bottom side, and wherein the base bottom side contacts the natural nail; and attaching a tip to the base, wherein the tip comprises one or more second mechanical features and has a tip top side and a tip bottom side, wherein the one or more second mechanical features of the tip cooperate with the one or more first mechanical features of the base to couple the tip onto the base such that the tip bottom side contacts the base bottom side so that there is no relative movement between the base and the tip after attachment, and wherein upon attachment to the base, the tip completely covers the base such that the base is no longer visible.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the one or more second mechanical features snap onto the one or more first mechanical features to attach together.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the one or more first mechanical features comprise base tracks on the base top side, and the one or more second mechanical features comprise tip tracks on the tip bottom side.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the attaching the tip to the base comprises coupling one of the one or more edges of the base to one of the one of more tracks of the tip bottom side.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the one or more first mechanical features comprise one or more ridges, and the one or more second mechanical features comprise one or more grooves.

36. (canceled)

37. (canceled)

38. The method of claim 32, wherein the base top side comprises a base recess and the tip bottom side comprises a tip protrusion, wherein the tip protrusion has the same volume as the space in the base recess, wherein the attaching the tip to the base further comprises snapping the tip protrusion into the base recess.

39. (canceled)

40. (canceled)

41. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the description, explain these embodiments. Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:

[0048] FIG. 1A illustrates a top view of the base, according to an embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 1B illustrates a left side view of the base, according to an embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 1C illustrates a right side view of the base, according to an embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 1D illustrates a view facing the base upper edge, according to an embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 1E illustrates a view facing the base lower edge, according to an embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 2A illustrates an oblique view of the base top side, according to an embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 2B illustrates an oblique view of the base bottom side, according to an embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 3A illustrates a top view of the tip, according to an embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 3B illustrates a left side view of the tip, according to an embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 3C illustrates a right side view of the tip, according to an embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 3D illustrates a view facing the tip upper edge, according to an embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 3E illustrates a view facing the tip lower edge, according to an embodiment.

[0060] FIG. 3F illustrates a bottom view of the tip, according to an embodiment.

[0061] FIG. 4A illustrates an oblique view of the tip top side, according to an embodiment.

[0062] FIG. 4B illustrates an oblique view of the tip bottom side, according to an embodiment.

[0063] FIG. 5A illustrates the process of attaching the tip to the base, according to an embodiment.

[0064] FIG. 5B illustrates the tip attached to the base, according to an embodiment.

[0065] FIG. 6A illustrates a top view of the attached tip and base, according to an embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 6B illustrates a side view of the attached tip and base taken along the cross-section A-A shown in FIG. 6A, according to an embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 6C illustrates a bottom view of the attached tip and base, according to an embodiment.

[0068] FIG. 7A illustrates an oblique top view of the base, according to a second embodiment.

[0069] FIG. 7B illustrates an oblique bottom view of the base, according to a second embodiment.

[0070] FIG. 8 illustrates an oblique bottom view of the tip, according to a second embodiment.

[0071] FIG. 9A illustrates an oblique top view of the attached tip and base, according to a second embodiment.

[0072] FIG. 9B illustrates a bottom view of the attached tip and base, according to a second embodiment.

[0073] FIG. 9C illustrates the attached tip and base along a cross-sectional view of B-B as shown in FIG. 9B, according to a second embodiment.

[0074] FIG. 9D illustrates the attached tip and base along a cross-sectional view of C-C as shown in FIG. 9B, according to a second embodiment.

[0075] FIG. 10 illustrates a method of applying an artificial system, according to an embodiment.

[0076] FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate a top view of the base, according to a third embodiment.

[0077] FIGS. 11C-11D illustrate oblique top views of the base, according to a third embodiment.

[0078] FIG. 11E illustrates a left side view of the base, according to a third embodiment.

[0079] FIG. 11F illustrates a view facing the base upper edge, according to a third embodiment.

[0080] FIG. 12A illustrates a bottom view of the tip, according to a third embodiment.

[0081] FIG. 12B illustrates an oblique view of the tip bottom side, according to a third embodiment.

[0082] FIGS. 12C-12D illustrate a bottom view of the tip, according to a third embodiment.

[0083] FIG. 12E illustrates a left side view of the tip, according to a third embodiment.

[0084] FIG. 12F illustrates a view facing the tip upper edge, according to a third embodiment.

[0085] FIG. 13A illustrates a top view of the base, according to a fourth embodiment.

[0086] FIG. 13B illustrates a bottom view of the tip, according to a fourth embodiment.

FEATURES

[0087] 1 Base [0088] 2 Base left edge [0089] 2A Base left track [0090] 3 Base right edge [0091] 3A Base right track [0092] 4 Base upper edge [0093] 5 Base lower edge [0094] 6 Base top side [0095] 7 Base lunula [0096] 8 Base bottom side [0097] 10 Tip [0098] 12 Tip left edge [0099] 12A Tip left track [0100] 13 Tip right edge [0101] 13A Tip left track [0102] 14 Tip upper edge [0103] 15 Tip lower edge [0104] 16 Tip top side [0105] 17 Tip lunula [0106] 18 Tip bottom side [0107] 30 Center longitudinal axis [0108] 100 Base [0109] 102 Base left edge [0110] 103 Base right edge [0111] 104 Base upper edge [0112] 105 Base lower edge [0113] 106 Base top side [0114] 107A Base upward protrusion [0115] 107B Base downward protrusion [0116] 108 Base bottom side [0117] 109A Base plateau [0118] 109B Base elevated sides [0119] 110 Tip [0120] 112 Tip left edge [0121] 113 Tip right edge [0122] 114 Tip upper edge [0123] 115 Tip lower edge [0124] 116 Tip top side [0125] 117A Tip groove [0126] 118 Tip bottom side [0127] 119A Tip rectangular space [0128] 119B Tip walls [0129] 130 Center longitudinal axis [0130] 1000 Method [0131] 200 Base [0132] 202 Base left edge [0133] 202A Base left track [0134] 203 Base right edge [0135] 203A Base right track [0136] 204 Base upper edge [0137] 205 Base lower edge [0138] 206 Base top side [0139] 208 Base bottom side [0140] 209 Base recess [0141] h.sub.200 Height of base [0142] w.sub.200 Width of base [0143] h.sub.209 Height of base recess [0144] h.sub.202 Height of base left edge [0145] w.sub.202 Width of base left edge [0146] t.sub.209 Thickness of base recess [0147] r.sub.209 Radius of circle formed by curvature of base recess [0148] d.sub.202 Distance from base left edge to base recess [0149] t.sub.202 Thickness of base left edge [0150] 210 Tip [0151] 212 Tip left edge [0152] 212A Tip left track [0153] 213 Tip right edge [0154] 213A Tip right track [0155] 214 Tip upper edge [0156] 215 Tip lower edge [0157] 216 Tip top side [0158] 218 Tip bottom side [0159] 219 Tip protrusion [0160] 220 Stopper [0161] h.sub.210 Height of tip [0162] w.sub.210 Width of tip [0163] h.sub.219 Height of tip protrusion [0164] w.sub.219 Width of tip protrusion [0165] h.sub.213A Height of tip right track [0166] w.sub.top Width between top of tip tracks [0167] w.sub.bot Width between bottom of tip tracks [0168] w.sub.212A Width of tip left track [0169] pw.sub.219 Partial width of tip protrusion from left side view of tip [0170] t.sub.219 Thickness of tip protrusion [0171] r.sub.219 Radius of circle formed by curvature of tip protrusion [0172] d.sub.212A Lateral distance between top and bottom of tip left track [0173] t.sub.212A Thickness of tip left track [0174] 300 Base [0175] 302A Base left track [0176] 303A Base right track [0177] 304 Base upper edge [0178] 305 Base lower edge [0179] 306 Base top side [0180] 309A First base recess [0181] 309B Second base recess [0182] 310 Tip [0183] 312 Tip left edge [0184] 312A Tip left track [0185] 313 Tip right edge [0186] 313A Tip right track [0187] 314 Tip upper edge [0188] 315 Tip lower edge [0189] 318 Tip bottom side [0190] 319A First tip protrusion [0191] 319B Second tip protrusion [0192] 320 Stopper

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0193] Artificial nail tips are tips that can be applied to one's nails. Artificial nail tips have been used as an alternative to painting fingernails and/or growing natural nails longer. Artificial nail tips are easy to use and typically provided in one solid color or multiple colors. Artificial nail tips are often used to convey a sense of fashion and can serve as an accessory.

[0194] Traditional artificial nail tips are implemented in a manner such that the artificial nail tips do not come off easily and are expected to remain on the natural nails as long as possible. As such, the more conventional nail tips are not conducive to frequent replacements if, for example, a user wishes to match nail tips to different outfits or occasions. To do so with conventional nail tip systems would be very costly or time-consuming or both. Additionally, conventional press-on nails are one-time use products and then disposed of. While nail tips can be reused, the process of removing the nails is resource-intensive and could potentially damage the nail tips so nail tips are generally not re-used which can add to waste. Accordingly, improvements to the current systems are needed to address these shortcomings.

[0195] In the present embodiments, the mechanically coupled nail tip includes a base and a tip. The base is attached to the natural nail by an adhesive, and the tip is attached to the base by mechanical coupling. Since the tip is held mechanically and not by an adhesive, the tip can be easily snapped on and off from the base. The mechanical features of the base interact with the mechanical features of the tip to securely hold the tip with a natural appearance. As a result, switching nail tips using the present embodiments can be fast and easy. When the ease of changing nail tips increases significantly, nail tips can be optimized for any and every occasion. By providing mechanically coupled nail tips, any color or style of nail tips can be worn at any time. Nail tips can be changed frequently to fit the occasion, and nail tips can be reused indefinitely.

[0196] A first embodiment of a mechanically coupled nail tip will now be described. FIGS. 1A-1E and 2A-2B illustrate a base 1 of the mechanically coupled nail tip, according to an embodiment. FIG. 1A illustrates a top view of a base 1, FIG. 1B illustrates a left side view of the base 1, FIG. 1C illustrates a right side view of the base 1, FIG. 1D illustrates a view facing the base upper edge, and FIG. 1E illustrates a view facing the base lower edge, according to an embodiment. Further, FIG. 2A illustrates an oblique view of the base top side, and FIG. 2B illustrates an oblique view of the base bottom side, according to an embodiment. As a result, FIGS. 1A-1E and 2A-2B illustrate various angles and views of the base 1.

[0197] The base 1 is in the shape of a natural nail, so that it has a snug fit on the natural nail. In some embodiments, a snug fit may be a fit that reduces or eliminates a gap between the natural nail and the base 1, across the base 1. The base 1 has a base left edge 2 on its left side and a base right edge 3 on its right side. The base 1 curves downward such that it is highest in the middle lengthwise and lowest at the base edges 2, 3. FIGS. 1D and 1E show that the base 1 is convex when viewed from a front side. Directly above the base left edge 2 and the base right edge 3 are a base left track 2A and a base right track 3A, respectively. The top view of FIG. 1A does not differentiate between the base edge and the base track, because they are in the same vertical plane. However, FIGS. 1B-1E shows a vertical gap between the base track 2A, 3A and the base edge 2, 3, respectively. Both the base left track 2A and the base right track 3A are mechanical features that are used to connect the base 1 to a tip 10 (see FIGS. 5A-5B). The spacing between the base track 2A, 3A and the base edge 2, 3 allows mechanical features of the tip 10 to be inserted and snap into place with the base 1. The base left track 2A and the base right track 3A are straight edges that fit within the mechanical features of the tip 10. The underside of the base tracks 2A, 3A, which are the track sides facing the base edges 2, 3, are the base track sides that engage the mechanical features of the tip 10. The mechanical features of the tip 10 will be described below.

[0198] Additionally, the base 1 has a base upper edge 4 and a base lower edge 5. The base upper edge 4 substantially straight from the base left edge 2 to the base right edge 3, while the base lower edge 5 is rounded to follow the wearer's cuticle shape. Further, the base 1 has a base top side 6 on the front side. The base top side 6 also includes a base lunula 7 that mimics that of a natural nail (not shown). The base tracks 2A and 3A are positioned on the base top side 6 and stretch from the base upper edge 4 and continue down to the base lunula 7, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C. The base tracks 2A and 3A do not run all the way down to the base lower edge 5. The edges 2 and 3 are straight and slightly curved at the base lower edge 5. On the other side of the base top side 6 is a base bottom side 8 that is attached to a natural nail. The base bottom side 8 and/or the nail is coated with adhesive to attach the base 1 to the nail. The shape of the base 1 is similar to that of the natural nail as the base 1 will be affixed to the natural nail. However, the base 1 does not cover the entire width of the nail. The edges of the nail in the width direction are not covered by the base 1 and still exposed. Portions of the nail are left exposed for the tip 10. This space allows the tip 10 to rest on the nail and attach to the base 1.

[0199] FIGS. 3A-3F and 4A-4B illustrate a tip 10 of the mechanically coupled nail tip, according to an embodiment. FIG. 3A illustrates a top view of a tip 10. FIG. 3B illustrates a left side view of the tip 10, FIG. 3C illustrates a right side view of the tip 10, FIG. 3D illustrates a view facing the tip upper edge, FIG. 3E illustrates a view facing the tip lower edge, according to an embodiment, and FIG. 3F illustrates a bottom view of the tip 10, according to an embodiment. Further, FIG. 4A illustrates an oblique view of the tip top side, and FIG. 4B illustrates an oblique view of the tip bottom side, according to an embodiment.

[0200] The tip 10 has a tip left edge 12 on its left side and a tip right edge 13 on its right side. The tip 10 curves downward such that it is highest at a center longitudinal axis (see FIG. 6A) and lowest at the tip edges 12, 13. FIGS. 3D and 3E show that the tip 10 is convex when viewed from a front side of the tip 10. The tip 10 has the same shape as the base 1 such that a snug fit is achieved when the tip 10 is attached to the base 1. Further, the tip 10 has a tip upper edge 14 at a free end and a tip lower edge 15 at a nail bed end. The free end is the end of the tip 10 that, when attached, is not in contact with the finger. On the other hand, the nail bed end is the part of the tip 10 that, when attached, is contacting the finger's cuticle. The tip 10 has a tip top side 16 that is visible when on a fingernail. Part of the tip top side 16 includes a tip lunula 17, which mimics that of a natural nail. The other side of the tip 10 is the tip bottom side 18 and is mostly hidden from view when the tip 10 is on a nail. The only portion of the tip bottom side 18 that is visible when the tip 10 is on a nail is the area that is not covered by the base 1, as seen in FIG. 5B. On the tip bottom side 18 are a tip left track 12A and a tip right track 13A along the edges of the tip 10. The tip tracks 12A, 13A are mechanical features that cooperate with the base mechanical features (base tracks 2A, 3A) to attach the tip 10 to the base 1. The topside of the tip tracks 12A, 13A, which face the tip bottom side 18, are the tip track sides that engage the mechanical features of the base 1. The details of the mechanical features of the base 1 are described above. The tip tracks 12A, 13A face inward toward the center longitudinal axis 30 (see FIG. 6A) of the tip 10. The tip left track 12A is positioned on the backside of the tip left edge 12, and the tip right track 13A is positioned on the backside of the tip right edge 13. The tip tracks 12A, 13A start around the midpoint of the tip 10 between the tip upper edge 14 and the tip lower edge 15 and continue to the tip lunula 17.

[0201] Next, using the mechanically coupled nail tip will be described. First, the base 1 is attached to a natural nail using an adhesive. The base 1 is attached to the natural nail with the base lower edge 5 contacting the nail cuticle. Since the base 1 is in the shape of the natural nail, the base 1 conforms to the shape of the natural nail. There is no open space between the base 1 and the natural nail, because the base 1 follows the contours of the natural nail. Further, the base 1 does not extend past the free end of the natural nail. The base 1 does not extend across the entire width of the natural nail. This allows for the tip 10, when attached, to easily snap into the base 1, which will be explained below. Portions of the nail are left exposed for the tip 10. This space allows the tip 10 to rest on the nail and attach to the base 1.

[0202] Different types of adhesives may be used to attach the base bottom side 8 to the nail. For example, the adhesive may be a peel-off gel, nail glue, or double-sided tape. The adhesive, alternatively, can be a non-wipe peel-off gel. Any material that can firmly attach the base bottom side 8 to the nail may be used as the adhesive. The adhesive can be applied to the natural nail or to the base bottom side 8 or to both surfaces. The natural nail can be a fingernail or a toenail that belongs to a human, mannequin, or animal.

[0203] After the base 1 is securely in place on the natural nail, the tip 10 then can be attached to the base 1. FIG. 5A illustrates the process of attaching the tip 10 to the base 1, according to an embodiment. The tip bottom side 18, which comprises the mechanical features 12A, 13A of the tip 10, are brought into contact with the base top side 6, which comprises the mechanical features 2A, 3A of the base 1. As the tip 10 and the base 1 are engaged, the base left track 2A and the base right track 3A slide into the tip left track 12A and the tip right track 13A. The underside of the base tracks 2A, 3A (the side that faces the base edges 2. 3) slides along the topside of the tip tracks 12A, 13A (the side that faces the tip bottom side 18). The sliding continues until the base 1 is completely covered by the tip 10 from a top view perspective (see FIG. 6A). At this point, the base 1 and the tip 10 will snap together, and the sliding ends. When this happens, the base tracks 2A and 3A have already slid to the end of the tip tracks 12A and 13A, where they cannot advance any further. Since the base tracks 2A, 3A and the tip tracks 12A, 13A are the same length, the base tracks 2A, 3A will completely overlap with the tip tracks 12A, 13A, at which point the tracks will snap into place. A snapping, or clicking, sound may be made when the tip 10 and the base 1 are fully attached. Additionally, there can be blockers (not pictured) at the top end of the tip tracks 12A, 13A that prevent the base tracks 2A, 3A from advancing any further.

[0204] FIG. 5B illustrates the tip 10 attached to the base 1, according to an embodiment. The tip 10 is attached to the base 1 and cannot be moved independently until the user decides to remove the tip 10 from the base 1. Further, when the tip 10 and the base 1 are attached, there is no gap between the tip 10 and the base 1. The tip 10 and the base 1 have the same shape, preventing any space from appearing between the tip 10 and the base 1. The tip 10 and the base 1 are in close contact with no empty space between the components.

[0205] Detaching the tip 10 from the base 1 is as simple as the attachment process. In order to remove the tip 10 from the base 1, the tip 10 can be pulled off by pulling the tip 10 from the tip upper edge 14 away from the base 1. The tip 10 should be pulled away from the base 1 such that the tip lower edge 15 moves along the length of the base 1 from the base lower edge 5 until it reaches the base upper edge 4 and then the mechanical features between the tip 10 and the base 1 will be detached. At that point, the tip 10 will be completely removed from the base 1.

[0206] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate the attached tip 10 and base 1, according to an embodiment. FIG. 6A illustrates a top view of the attached tip 10 and base 1, FIG. 6B illustrates a side view of the attached tip 10 and base 1 taken along the cross-section A-A shown in FIG. 6A, and FIG. 6C illustrates a bottom view of the attached tip 10 and base 1, according to an embodiment.

[0207] Though FIG. 6A illustrates the attached tip 10 and base 1, only the tip 10 is visible. The base 1 is completely covered by the tip 10 and therefore cannot be seen from the top view of FIG. 6A. A center longitudinal axis 30 is shown in FIG. 6A. The center longitudinal axis 30 travels lengthwise through the tip 10 between the edges 12 and 13 and bisects the tip upper edge 14 and tip lower edge 15. The mechanical features of the tip 10 and the base 1, which include the tip tracks 12A and 13A and the base edges 2A and 3A, respectively, are not along the center longitudinal axis 30. Rather, the mechanical features are offset from the center longitudinal axis 30. Additionally, it can be seen that the mechanical features of the base 1 (base tracks 2A, 3A) and the tip 10 (tip tracks 12A, 13A) each have a width that is less than the width of the base 1 and the tip 10, respectively. In fact, the mechanical features 2A, 3A, 12A, 13A each have a width that is significantly less than the width of the base 1 and the tip 10. The mechanical features 2A, 3A, 12A, 13A have a relatively small width; they are much larger in length than in width. This may provide just enough size for the ability to slidingly engage these two pieces, as described herein, and then the snapping engagement.

[0208] A second embodiment of a mechanically coupled nail tip will now be described. FIG. 7A illustrates an oblique top view of a base 100, and FIG. 7B illustrates an oblique bottom view of the base 100, according to a second embodiment. The base 100 includes a base left edge 102 and a base right edge 103. The base 100 curves downward such that it is highest in the middle lengthwise and lowest at the base edges 102, 103. FIG. 7A shows that the base 100 is convex when viewed from a front side. Further, the base 100 includes a base upper edge 104 and a base lower edge 105. The base 100 has a base top side 106 on its front side and a base bottom side 108 on the other side. Further, the base 100 includes a base plateau 109A that has base elevated sides 109B. The base plateau 109A protrudes out of the base top side 106. The base plateau 109A and the base elevated sides 109B extend from the base upper edge 104 and extend to the base lower edge 105. The base plateau 109A and the base elevated sides 109A protrude higher as they approach the base lower edge 105. Additionally, a base upward protrusion 107A is located below the base lower edge 105. Below the base upward protrusion 107A is a base downward protrusion 107B. The size and shape of both the base upward protrusion 107A and the base downward protrusion 107B are the same. The protrusions 107A and 107B each have an ellipsis or oval shape. However, the shape is not limited to this and could also be circular, rectangular, or any other suitable shape. The base 100 has mechanical features (the base upward protrusion 107A and the base plateau 109A) that are used to engage mechanical features of the tip 110 to attach the base 100 to the tip 110. The mechanical features of the tip 110 will be described below.

[0209] FIG. 8 illustrates an oblique bottom view of a tip 110, according to a second embodiment. The tip 110 includes a tip left edge 112 and a tip right edge 113. The tip 110 curves downward such that it is highest in the middle lengthwise and lowest at the base edges 102, 103. FIG. 8 shows that the tip 110 is convex when viewed from a front side. The tip 110 has the same shape as the base 100 such that a snug fit is achieved when the tip 110 is attached to the base 100. The tip 110 also includes a tip upper edge 114 and a tip lower edge 115. Further, the tip 110 has a tip top side 116 that is visible when worn on a natural nail. On the other hand, the tip bottom side 118 on the other side is not visible. The tip bottom side 118 includes a tip rectangular space 119A having tip walls 119B. Further, the tip bottom side 118 includes a tip groove 117A that has an open space in the shape of an oval or ellipse. The tip 110 has mechanical features (the tip groove 117A and the tip rectangular space 119A) that engage the mechanical features of the base 100 to attach the tip 110 to the base 100. The mechanical features of the base 100 are described above.

[0210] Next, a description will be provided for how the tip 110 and the base 100 are connected. First, the base 100 is attached to a natural nail using an adhesive. The base 100 is attached to the natural nail with the base lower edge 105 positioned halfway down the natural nail. The base upper edge 104 protrudes past the top of the fingernail. Since the base 100 is in the shape of the natural nail, the base 100 conforms to the shape of the natural nail. There is no open space between the base 100 and the natural nail, because the base 100 follows the contours of the natural nail. Further, the base 100 does not extend past the free end of the natural nail. The base 100 also does not extend across the entire width of the natural nail.

[0211] Different types of adhesives may be used to attach the base bottom side 108 to the nail. For example, the adhesive may be a peel-off gel, nail glue, or double-sided tape. The adhesive, alternatively, can be a non-wipe peel-off gel. In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive is a gel sticker. The gel sticker is a two-sided gel sticker that is first applied to the natural nail. Thereafter, the base 100 (or the combined base 100 and tip 110) are pressed onto and attached to the gel sticker. Any material that can firmly attach the base bottom side 108 to the nail may be used as the adhesive. The adhesive can be applied to the natural nail or to the base bottom side 108 or to both surfaces. The natural nail can be a fingernail or a toenail that belongs to a human, mannequin, or animal.

[0212] Next, the tip 110 is attached to the base 100. By aligning the mechanical features of the tip 110, including the tip groove 117A and the tip rectangular space 119A, with the mechanical features of the base 100, including the base upward protrusion 107A and the base plateau 109A, the tip 110 can be snapped into place to the base 100. The base upward protrusion 107A fits snugly into the tip groove 117A, and the base plateau 109A fits snugly into the tip rectangular space 119A. A snapping, or clicking, sound may be made when the tip 110 and the base 100 are attached. The tip 110 and the base 100 will then be attached without allowing for relative movement between the tip 110 and the base 100 and retain the strength of natural nails. The dimensions and material of the base 100 and tip 110 maintain the appearance of natural nails. Additionally, the design and structure of how the base 100 and tip 110 are mechanically coupled facilitates this appearance.

[0213] FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate the attached tip 110 and base 100, according to a second embodiment. FIG. 9A illustrates an oblique top view of the attached tip 110 and base 100, according to a second embodiment. FIG. 9A shows the attached base 100 through a semi-transparent tip 110. The tip 110 being transparent was done so that the base 100 underneath could be seen. In the actual configuration, the base 100 would not be visible when attached to the tip 110. Further, when the tip 110 and the base 100 are attached, there is no gap between the tip 110 and the base 100. The tip 110 and the base 100 are in close contact with no empty space between the components. FIG. 9B illustrates a bottom view of the attached tip 110 and base 100. A center longitudinal axis 130 is shown in FIG. 9B. The center longitudinal axis 130 travels lengthwise through the tip 110 between the edges 112 and 113 and bisects the tip upper edge 114 and tip lower edge 115. The mechanical features of the base 100 (the base plateau 109A and the base upward protrusion 107A) and the mechanical features of the tip 110 (the tip rectangular space 119A and the tip groove 117A) are positioned along the center longitudinal axis 130. These mechanical features are in contact with the center longitudinal axis 130. Additionally, it can be seen that the mechanical features each have a width that is less than the width of the base 100. In other words, the mechanical features of the base 100 and the tip 110 do not span the entire width of the base 100 and the tip 110, respectively.

[0214] FIG. 9C illustrates the attached tip 110 and base 100 along a cross-sectional view of B-B as shown in FIG. 9B. FIG. 9C shows that when attached, the tip 110 and the base 100 are in close contact. In other words, the tip 110 and the base 100 have a snug fit. The tip bottom side 118 and the base top side 106 are in contact and fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. FIG. 9D illustrates the attached tip 110 and base 100 along a cross-sectional view of C-C as shown in FIG. 9B, according to a second embodiment. The base downward protrusion 107B has a function of detaching the tip 110 from the base 100. When a small upward force is provided to the base downward protrusion 107B by the natural nail, the tip 110 will dislodge from the base 100 and will no longer be attached to the base 100. As a result, the base downward protrusion 107B is used to remove the tip 110 from the base 100.

[0215] FIG. 10 illustrates a method 1000 of applying an artificial nail system, according to an embodiment.

[0216] At step 1001, a base, such as base 1 or 100, is attached to a natural nail. The base is made of a poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) material. The PMMA material may be a mixture comprised of methyl methacrylate of 5-95% weight concentration range, alkyl methacrylate of 5-95% weight concentration range, titanium oxide (IV) of less than 7% weight concentration range, and carbon black of less than 3% weight concentration range. Any other suitable material for the base can also be used. The base is attached by first applying a coat of adhesive to the base or the natural nail or to both the base and the natural nail. The adhesive is provided on a base bottom side, such as base bottom side 8 or 108. Additionally, or alternatively, the adhesive can be provided to a top side of the natural nail. When the base is pressed on to the natural nail, the base lower edge (5 or 105) is aligned with the cuticle of the natural nail. Since the base is shaped similar to the natural nail, the base conforms to the natural nail. There is a snug fit between the base 1 and the natural nail. UV or LED light exposure can be used to strengthen the attachment of the base to the adhesive.

[0217] Different types of adhesives may be used to attach the base bottom side (8 or 108) to the nail. For example, the adhesive may be a peel-off gel, nail glue, or double-sided tape. In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive is a non-wipe peel-off gel. In another preferred embodiment, the adhesive is a gel sticker. The gel sticker is a two-sided gel sticker that is first applied to the natural nail. Thereafter, the base 1 or 100 (or the combined base 1 or 100 and tip 10 or 110) are pressed onto and attached to the gel sticker. In order for the base to be securely adhered to the gel sticker, curing with an LED lamp is required. Further, any material that can firmly attach the base bottom side (8 or 108) to the nail may be used as the adhesive. The adhesive can be applied to the natural nail or to the base bottom side (8 or 108) or to both surfaces. The natural nail can be a fingernail or a toenail that belongs to a human, mannequin, or animal.

[0218] At step 1002, a tip, such as tip 10 or 110, is attached to the base (1 or 100). The tip is made of an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic material or a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) material. The PMMA material may be comprised similarly to that of the base described above. Any other suitable material for the tip can also be used. Mechanical features of the tip engage and snap onto mechanical features of the base to create a strong bond. The mechanical features of the base and tip are in contact and hold each other in place. As a result, there is a snug fit between the base and tip and no relative movement between the tip and the base is allowed. The mechanical features of the base and tip can be snapped together to create a mechanically coupled nail tip.

[0219] In the first embodiment, the tip tracks 12A, 13A engage with the base tracks 2A, 3A to attach the tip 10 to the base 1. In the second embodiment, the tip groove 117A and tip rectangular space 119A engage with the base upward protrusion 107A and base plateau 109A to attach the tip 110 to the base 100.

[0220] After the nail tips have been worn to the user's satisfaction, it becomes time to detach the tip from the base.

[0221] At step 1003, the tip (10 or 110) can be detached from the base (1 or 100). Although the tip and base are tightly secured together, they can easily be detached from each other. In the first embodiment, the tip 10 can be detached by pulling the tip 10 from the tip upper edge 14 away from the base 1. In the second embodiment, a small upward force can be provided to the base downward protrusion 107B, which will allow the tip 110 to snap off from the base 100.

[0222] At step 1004, a second tip (not shown, but shaped like 10 or 110) can be attached to the base (1 or 100). The second tip is attached to the base in a similar manner as the tip to the base in step 1002. The mechanical features of the second tip cooperate with the mechanical features of the base to secure the second tip. The tip (10 or 110) and the second tip can both come from a set of interchangeable decorative tips. The decorative tips can be interchanged by attaching and detaching from the base as often as desired. The second tip can be completely different in color and design from the tip; however, the shape of the second tip will be the same as the tip, which will allow the different tips to be interchanged onto the base.

[0223] At step 1005, the tip (10 or 110) can be attached to a second base (not shown, but shaped like 1 or 100). The tip is attached to the second base in a similar manner as the tip to the base in step 1002. The mechanical features of the tip cooperate with the mechanical features of the second base to secure the tip. As a result, the tip can be reused. Since all of the bases are covered by the tips, the bases are not decorated; rather, the bases are only functional. The shape of the bases are identical in order for the tips to be interchangeably attached to them.

[0224] At step 1006, the attached base and tip can be removed from the natural nail. The attached base and tip may be the second tip attached to the base (1 or 100), the tip (10 or 110) attached to the second base, or any other base and tip combination. For removal of the combined base and tip, a tool (not shown) such as a sharpened popsicle stick may be inserted between the natural nail and the base to pry the base and tip off the natural nail. Any other means of removal that disengages the base from the adhesive on the natural nail may be used.

[0225] A third embodiment of a mechanically coupled nail tip will now be described. FIGS. 11A-11F illustrate a base 200 of the mechanically coupled nail tip. FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate a top view of the base 200, FIGS. 11C-11D illustrate oblique top views of the base 200, FIG. 11E illustrates a left side view of the base 200, and FIG. 11F illustrates a view facing the base upper edge.

[0226] The base 200 is in the shape of a natural nail, so that it has a snug fit on the natural nail. In some embodiments, a snug fit, a bow or arched shape, and/or a radius of curvature may be a fit that reduces or eliminates a gap between the natural nail and the base 200, across the base 200. The base 200 includes a base left edge 202 on its left side and a base right edge 203 on its right side. The base 200 curves downward such that it is highest in the middle lengthwise and lowest at the base edges 202, 203. FIG. 11F shows that the base 200 is convex when viewed from a front side. Directly above the base left edge 202 and the base right edge 203 are a base left track 202A and a base right track 203A, respectively. The base tracks 202A, 203A are straight edges with an indent underneath for attachment to a tip 210 (see FIGS. 12A-12F). The top view of FIG. 11A only shows the base tracks 202A, 203A and not the base edges 202, 203, because the base edges 202, 203 are under the base tracks 202A, 203A, respectively. However, FIGS. 11C-11F shows a vertical gap between the base track 202A, 203A and the base edge 202, 203, respectively. The space created by the vertical gap is used to attach the tip 210 to the base 200. Both the base left track 202A and the base right track 203A are mechanical features that are used to connect the base 200 to a tip 210. The spacing between the base track 202A, 203A and the base edge 202, 203 allows mechanical features of the tip 210 to be inserted and snap into place with the base 200. The base left track 202A and the base right track 203A are straight edges that fit within the mechanical features of the tip 210. The underside of the base tracks 202A, 203A, which are the track sides facing the base edges 202, 203, are the base track sides that engage the mechanical features of the tip 210. The mechanical features of the tip 210 will be described below.

[0227] Additionally, the base 200 has a base upper edge 204 and a base lower edge 205. The base upper edge 204 is substantially straight from the base left edge 202 to the base right edge 203, while the base lower edge 205 is rounded to follow the wearer's cuticle shape. Further, the base 200 has a base top side 206 on the front side. The base tracks 202A and 203A are positioned on the base top side 206 and stretch from the base upper edge 204 and continue down about three-quarters of the way to the base lower edge 205, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11E. The edges 202 and 203 are straight and slightly curved at the base lower edge 205. The base top side 206 includes a base recess 209 near the base upper edge 204 that extends laterally from the base left track 202A to the base right track 203A. The base recess 209 is a notch or indent in the surface of the base 200. The base recess 209 is formed in the shape of a partial circle that extends laterally across the base top side 206. The base recess 209 looks like a channel having a circular opening. The space created by the base recess 209 is occupied by a tip protrusion 219 (see FIGS. 12A-12F) when the base 200 and the tip 210 are connected. As a result, the base 200 and the tip 210 are also attached by snapping the tip protrusion 219 of the tip 210 into the base recess 209 of the base 200. On the other side of the base top side 206 is a base bottom side 208 that is attached to a natural nail. The base bottom side 208 and/or the nail is coated with adhesive to attach the base 200 to the nail. The adhesive may be a gel sticker, peel-off glue, nail glue, double-sided tape, or any material that firmly attaches the gel sticker to the natural nail. The shape of the base 200 is similar to that of the natural nail as the base 200 will be affixed to the natural nail. However, the base 200 does not cover the entire width of the nail. The edges of the nail in the width direction are not covered by the base 200 and still exposed. Portions of the nail are left exposed for the tip 210. This space allows the tip 210 to rest on the nail and attach to the base 200.

[0228] FIG. 11B shows dimensions of various aspects of the base 200. The height h.sub.200 of the base 200 is the distance from the base upper edge 204 to the base lower edge 205. In some embodiments, the height h.sub.200 may be between about 15 cm and 25 cm. For example, the height h.sub.200 may be about 20 cm. The width w.sub.200 of the base 200 is the distance of the base from the left side to the right side. The width w.sub.200 is longer than the distance from the base left track 202A to the base right track 203A. because the bottom portion of the base 200 is wider than the base tracks. In some embodiments, the width w.sub.200 may be between about 10 cm and 20 cm. For example, the width w.sub.200 may be about 15 cm. The height h.sub.209 of the base recess 209 is the distance from the top of the base recess 209 to the bottom of the base recess 209. In some embodiments, the height h.sub.200 may be between about 0.1 cm and 1 cm. For example, the height h.sub.200 may be about 0.5 cm.

[0229] Further dimensions of the base 200 are shown in FIG. 11E. The height h.sub.202 of the base left edge 202 is the distance from the top of the base left edge 202 at the base upper edge 204 to the bottom of the base left edge 202 about three-quarters of the way down the base 200. In some embodiments, the height h.sub.202 may be between about 10 cm and 20 cm. For example, the height h.sub.202 may be about 15 cm. Although only the height h.sub.202 of the base left edge 202 is shown, the height of the base right edge 203 is substantially the same. The width w.sub.202 of the base left edge 202 is the distance from the base left edge 202 to the base left track 202A. In some embodiments, the width w.sub.202 may be between about 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm. For example, the width w.sub.202 may be about 1 cm. The height h.sub.209 of the base recess 209 was already shown and discussed with FIG. 11B. The distance d.sub.209 is the distance from the base upper edge 204 to the top of the base recess 209. In some embodiments, the distance d.sub.209 may be between about 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm. For example, the distance d.sub.209 may be about 1 cm. The thickness t.sub.209 of the base recess 209 is the distance from the bottom of the space carved out by the base recess 209 to the top of the base recess 209. In some embodiments, the thickness t.sub.209 may be between about 0.05 cm and 0.15 cm. For example, the thickness t.sub.209 may be about 0.1 cm. The radius r.sub.209 is the radius of the circle created by the curvature of the base recess 209. In other words, the radius r.sub.209 is the radius of the ditch having a circular opening formed by the base recess 209. In some embodiments, the radius r.sub.209 may be between about 0.1 cm and 1 cm. For example, the radius r.sub.209 may be about 0.5 cm. The numerical ranges provided allow for differences in finger or thumb size as well as different preferred lengths and styles of the base 200.

[0230] FIG. 11F illustrates a view facing the base upper edge 204. From this vantage point, a portion of the base bottom side 208 is shown. Further dimensions of the base 200 are also shown in FIG. 11F. The distance d.sub.202 is the distance from the top of the base left edge 202 to the base recess 209. In some embodiments, the distance d.sub.202 may be between about 0.1 cm and 1 cm. For example. the distance d.sub.202 may be about 0.5 cm. Although only the distance d.sub.202 of the base left edge 202 is shown, the distance of the base right edge 203 is substantially the same. The thickness t.sub.202 of the base left edge 200 is the distance from the top of the base left edge 202 to the bottom of the base left edge 202, as shown in FIG. 11F. In some embodiments, the thickness t.sub.202 may be between about 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm. For example, the thickness t.sub.202 may be about 1 cm. Although only the thickness t.sub.202 of the base left edge 202 is shown, the thickness of the base right edge 203 is substantially the same.

[0231] FIGS. 12A-12F illustrate a tip 210 of the mechanically coupled nail tip, according to the third embodiment. FIG. 12A illustrates a bottom view of the tip 210, FIG. 12B illustrates an oblique view of the tip bottom side 218, FIGS. 12C-12D illustrate a bottom view of the tip, FIG. 12E illustrates a left side view of the tip, and FIG. 12F illustrates a view facing the tip upper edge 214.

[0232] When viewed from the front, the tip 210 has a tip left edge 212 on its left side and a tip right edge 213 on its right side. The tip 210 curves downward such that it is highest at a center longitudinal axis and lowest at the tip edges 212, 213, as seen in FIG. 12F. FIG. 12F shows that the tip 210 is convex when viewed from a front side of the tip 210. The tip 210 has the same shape as the base 200 such that a snug fit is achieved when the tip 210 is attached to the base 200.

[0233] Further, the tip 210 has a tip upper edge 214 at a free end and a tip lower edge 215 at a nail bed end. The free end is the end of the tip 210 that, when attached, is not in contact with the finger. On the other hand, the nail bed end is the part of the tip 210 that, when attached, is contacting the finger's cuticle. The tip 210 has a tip top side 216 (seen in FIGS. 12E and 12F) that is visible when on a fingernail. The other side of the tip 210 is the tip bottom side 218 and is mostly hidden from view when the tip 210 is on a nail. The only portion of the tip bottom side 218 that is visible when the tip 210 is on a nail is the area that is not covered by the base 200. On the tip bottom side 218 are a tip left track 212A and a tip right track 213A along the edges of the tip 210. The edges of the tip tracks 212A, 213A on the tip bottom side 218 protrudes slightly so that it clamps onto the base tracks 202A. 203A of the underside of the base 200. It is engineered such that the tip 210 can slide easily onto the base 200, but also secure enough to prevent it from sliding off. The tip tracks 212A, 213A are mechanical features that cooperate with the base mechanical features (base tracks 202A, 203A) to attach the tip 210 to the base 200. The topside of the tip tracks 212A, 213A, which face the tip bottom side 218, are the tip track sides that engage the mechanical features of the base 200. The details of the mechanical features of the base 200 are described above. The tip tracks 212A, 213A face inward toward the center longitudinal axis of the tip 210. The tip left track 212A is positioned on the backside of the tip left edge 212, and the tip right track 213A is positioned on the backside of the tip right edge 213. The tip tracks 212A, 213A start around the midpoint of the tip 210 between the tip upper edge 214 and the tip lower edge 215 and continue downward toward the tip lower edge 215.

[0234] The tip bottom side 218 also includes a tip protrusion 219 that extends laterally from the tip left track 212A to the tip right track 213A. The tip protrusion 219 extends out from the surface of the tip 219. The tip protrusion 219 is an elongated bump having a circular shape. The tip protrusion 219 protrudes downward toward the base 200 when the tip 210 and the base 200 are aligned. The tip protrusion 219 engages with the base recess 209 (see FIGS. 11A-11F) via snapping to further attach the tip 210 to the base 200, in addition to the engagement of the tracks 212A and 213A to 202A and 203A, respectively. The size of the tip protrusion 219 is exactly the same size as the opening of the base recess 209 such that the tip protrusion 219 snaps securely and snugly into the base recess 209.

[0235] Furthermore, the tip bottom side 218 includes a stopper 220 that is positioned above the tip protrusion 219. The stopper 220 extends laterally from the tip left edge 212 to the tip right edge 213 but is slightly shorter than the tip protrusion 219, as seen in FIGS. 12A-12D. By having an elevated surface facing downward, the stopper 220 blocks the base 200 from sliding further into the tip 210. The stopper 220 stops the base 200 at the desired location so that the base recess 209 is engaged with the tip protrusion 219, and the base tracks 202A, 203A are fully engaged with the tip tracks 212A, 213A.

[0236] FIGS. 12C-12F show dimensions of various aspects of the tip 210, according to the third embodiment. Starting from FIG. 12C, the height h.sub.210 of the tip 210 is the distance from the tip upper edge 214 to the tip lower edge 215. In some embodiments, the height h.sub.210 may be between about 30 cm and 40 cm. For example, the height h.sub.210 may be about 35 cm. The width w.sub.210 of the tip 210 is the distance from the tip left edge 212 to the tip right edge 213 at the tip lower edge 215. In some embodiments, the width w.sub.210 may be between about 10 cm and 20 cm. For example, the width w.sub.210 may be about 15 cm. The height h.sub.219 of the tip protrusion 219 is the distance from the top of the tip protrusion 219 to the bottom of the tip protrusion 219. In some embodiments, the height h.sub.219 may be between about 0.1 cm and 1 cm. For example, the height h.sub.219 may be about 0.5 cm. The width w.sub.219 of the tip protrusion 219 is the distance from the leftmost portion of the tip protrusion 219 to the rightmost portion of the tip protrusion 219. In some embodiments, the width w.sub.219 may be between about 5 cm and 15 cm. For example, the width w.sub.219 may be about 10 cm. The height h.sub.213A of the tip right track 213A is the distance from the top of the tip right track 213A to the bottom of the tip right track 213A. In some embodiments, the height h.sub.213A may be between about 10 cm and 20 cm. For example, the height h.sub.213A may be about 15 cm. Although only the height h.sub.213A of the tip right track 213A is shown, the height of the tip left track 212A is substantially the same.

[0237] In FIG. 12D, the width w.sub.top is the width between the top of the tip left track 212A and the top of the tip right track 213A. In some embodiments, the width w.sub.top may be between about 5 cm and 15 cm. For example, the width w.sub.top may be about 10 cm. The width w.sub.bot is the width between the bottom of the tip left track 212A and the bottom of the tip right track 213A. In some embodiments, the width w.sub.bot may be between about 5 cm and 15 cm. For example, the width w.sub.bot may be about 12.5 cm.

[0238] In FIG. 12E, the width w.sub.212A of the tip left track 212A is the distance from the tip left edge 212 to the edge of the tip left track 212A in a lateral direction. In some embodiments, the width w.sub.212A may be between about 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm. For example, the width w.sub.212A may be about 1 cm. Although only the width w.sub.212A of the tip left track 212A is shown, the width of the tip right track 213A is substantially the same. The partial width pw.sub.219 of the tip protrusion 219 is the width of the tip protrusion 219 from a left side view of the tip 210. In some embodiments, the partial width pw.sub.219 may be between about 1 cm and 3 cm. For example, the partial width pw.sub.219 may be about 2 cm. The thickness 219 of the tip protrusion 219 is the distance from the surface of the tip bottom side 218 to the end of the tip protrusion 219 extended downward from the tip 210. In some embodiments, the thickness t.sub.219 may be between about 0.05 cm and 0.15 cm. For example, the thickness t.sub.219 may be about 0.1 cm. The radius r.sub.219 is the radius of the circle created by the curvature of the tip protrusion 219. In other words, the radius r.sub.219 is the radius of the circular shape of the elongated bump formed by the tip protrusion 219. In some embodiments, the radius r.sub.219 may be between about 0.1 cm and 1 cm. For example, the radius r.sub.219 may be about 0.5 cm. It is noted that the numerical values of the thickness t.sub.209 of the base recess 209 and the thickness t.sub.219 of the tip protrusion 219 are substantially the same, and the numerical values of the radius r.sub.209 and the radius r.sub.219 are substantially the same. This is so in order for the tip protrusion 219 to snap snugly into the base recess 209.

[0239] In FIG. 12F, the distance d.sub.212A is the lateral distance of the shift from the top of the tip left track 212A to the bottom of the tip left track 212A. In other words, the distance d.sub.212A is the distance that the tip left track 212A moves outward when comparing the top and bottom portions of the tip left track 212A. In some embodiments, the distance d.sub.212A may be between about 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm. For example, the distance d.sub.212A may be about 1 cm. Although only the distance d.sub.212A of the tip left track 212A is shown, the distance of the tip right track 213A is substantially the same. The thickness t.sub.212A is the thickness of the tip left track 212A in the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the thickness t.sub.212A may be between about 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm. For example, the thickness t.sub.212A may be about 1 cm. Although only the thickness t.sub.212A of the tip left track 212A is shown, the thickness of the tip right track 213A is substantially the same. The numerical ranges provided allow for differences in finger or thumb size as well as different preferred lengths and styles of the tip 210.

[0240] Next, using the mechanically coupled nail tip will be described. First, the base 200 is attached to a natural nail using an adhesive. The adhesive may be a gel sticker, peel-off glue, nail glue, double-sided tape, or any material that firmly attaches the gel sticker to the natural nail. The base 200 is attached to the natural nail with the base lower edge 215 contacting the nail cuticle. Since the base 200 is in the shape of the natural nail, the base 200 conforms to the shape of the natural nail. There is no open space between the base 200 and the natural nail, because the base 200 follows the contours of the natural nail. Further, the base 200 does not extend past the free end of the natural nail. The base 200 does not extend across the entire width of the natural nail. This allows for the tip 210, when attached, to easily snap into the base 200, which will be explained below. Portions of the nail are left exposed for the tip 210. This space allows the tip 210 to rest on the nail and attach to the base 200. UV or LED light exposure can be used to strengthen the attachment of the base to the adhesive.

[0241] Different types of adhesives may be used to attach the base bottom side 208 to the nail. For example, the adhesive may be a gel sticker, peel-off gel, nail glue, or double-sided tape. The gel sticker comprises acrylates/carbamate copolymer, methacrylic acid, polymer with butyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, and acrylates/hydroxyesters acrylates copolymer. This gel sticker formula has critical characteristics which impact the strength and durability of the adhesion of the base 200 to the natural nail plates. Further, the gel sticker requires LED lamps to cure, whereas traditional stickers and nail glue do not. The adhesive, alternatively, can be a non-wipe peel-off gel. Any material that can firmly attach the base bottom side 8 to the nail may be used as the adhesive. The adhesive can be applied to the natural nail or to the base bottom side 8 or to both surfaces. The natural nail can be a fingernail or a toenail that belongs to a human, mannequin, or animal.

[0242] After the base 200 is securely in place on the natural nail, the tip 210 then can be attached to the base 200. The tip bottom side 218, which comprises the mechanical features 212A, 213A of the tip 210, are brought into contact with the base top side 206, which comprises the mechanical features 202A, 203A of the base 200. As the tip 210 and the base 200 are engaged, the base left track 202A and the base right track 203A slide into the tip left track 212A and the tip right track 213A. The underside of the base tracks 202A. 203A (the side that faces the base edges 202, 203) slides along the topside of the tip tracks 212A, 213A (the side that faces the tip bottom side 218). The sliding continues until the base 200 is completely covered by the tip 210 from a top view perspective. At this point, the base 200 and the tip 210 will snap together, and the sliding ends. When this happens, the base tracks 202A and 203A have already slid to the end of the tip tracks 212A and 213A, where they cannot advance any further. Since the base tracks 202A, 203A and the tip tracks 212A, 213A are the same length, the base tracks 202A, 203A will completely overlap with the tip tracks 212A, 213A, at which point the tracks will snap into place. A snapping, or clicking, sound may be made when the tip 210 and the base 200 are fully attached. Additionally, there can be blockers (not pictured) at the top end of the tip tracks 212A, 213A that prevent the base tracks 202A, 203A from advancing any further. In addition to the tracks, the tip protrusion 219 and the base recess 209 are another attachment means to connect the tip 210 to the base 200. Only when the base tracks 202A, 203A have advanced to the end of the tip tracks 212A, 213A will the tip protrusion 219 face the base recess 209. At this point, pressing down on the tip 210 will snap the tip protrusion 219 into the base recess 209. With the connection between the tip protrusion 219 and the base recess 209, the tip 210 and the base 200 have even more points of attachment, further securing the tip 210 to the base 200. As a result, the tip 210 is attached to the base 200 at three locations: (1) the tip left track 212A and the base left track 202A connection, (2) the tip right track 213A and the base left track 203A connection, and (3) the tip protrusion 219 and the base recess 209 connection.

[0243] The tip 210 is attached to the base 200 and cannot be moved independently until the user decides to remove the tip 210 from the base 200. Further, when the tip 210 and the base 200 are attached, there is no gap between the tip 210 and the base 200. The tip 210 and the base 200 have the same shape, preventing any space from appearing between the tip 210 and the base 200. The tip 210 and the base 200 are in close contact with no empty space between the components.

[0244] Detaching the tip 210 from the base 200 is as simple as the attachment process. In order to remove the tip 210 from the base 200, the tip 210 can be pulled off by first pulling the tip 210 up away from the base 200 to release the tip protrusion 219 from the base recess 209 and then pulling the tip 210 from the tip upper edge 214 away from the base 200. The tip 210 should be pulled away from the base 200 such that the tip lower edge 215 moves along the length of the base 200 from the base lower edge 5 until it reaches the base upper edge 204 and then the mechanical features between the tip 210 and the base 200 will be detached. At that point, the tip 210 will be completely removed from the base 200.

[0245] Alternatively, the attached base 200 and tip 210 can be removed as a unit from the nail. For removal of the combined base and tip, a tool (not shown) such as a sharpened popsicle stick may be inserted between the natural nail and the base to pry the base and tip off the natural nail. Any other means of removal that disengages the base from the adhesive on the natural nail may be used.

[0246] A fourth embodiment of a mechanically coupled nail tip will now be described with reference to FIGS. 13A and 13B. FIG. 13A illustrates a top view of a base 300 of the mechanically coupled nail tip. The base 300, having the shape of a natural nail, includes a base left track 302A and a base right track 303A. The base tracks 302A, 303A are straight edges with an indent underneath for attachment to a tip 310 (see FIG. 13B). Additionally, the base 300 has a base upper edge 304 and a base lower edge 305. Further, the base 300 has a base top side 306 on the front side.

[0247] The base top side 306 includes a first base recess 309A and a second base recess 309B near the base upper edge 304 that extend laterally from the base left track 302A to the base right track 303A. The first base recess 309A is positioned below the base upper edge 304 but above the second base recess 309B. The second base recess 309B is positioned below the first base recess 309A. The base recesses 309A, 309B are notches or indents in the surface of the base 300. The base recesses 309A, 309B are formed in the shape of a partial circle that extends laterally across the base top side 306. The base recesses 309A, 309B look like a channel having a circular opening. The space created by the base recesses 309A, 309B are occupied respectively by tip protrusions 319A, 319B (see FIG. 13B) when the base 300 and the tip 310 are connected. As a result, the base 300 and the tip 310 are also attached by snapping the tip protrusions 319A, 319B of the tip 310 into the base recesses 309A, 309B of the base 300.

[0248] FIG. 13B illustrates a tip 310 of the mechanically coupled nail tip, according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13B illustrates a bottom view of the tip 310, which is a tip bottom side 318. The tip 310 has a left side 312, which is shown on the right in FIG. 13B due to the view from behind. A tip right side 313 is shown on the left.

[0249] Further, the tip 310 has a tip upper edge 314 at a free end and a tip lower edge 315 at a nail bed end. The free end is the end of the tip 310 that, when attached, is not in contact with the finger. On the other hand, the nail bed end is the part of the tip 310 that, when attached, is contacting the finger's cuticle. The tip 310 has a tip top side 316 that is visible when on a fingernail. The other side of the tip 310 is the tip bottom side 318 and is mostly hidden from view when the tip 310 is on a nail. The only portion of the tip bottom side 318 that is visible when the tip 310 is on a nail is the area that is not covered by the base 300. On the tip bottom side 318 are a tip left track 312A and a tip right track 313A along the edges of the tip 310. The edges of the tip tracks 312A, 313A on the tip bottom side 318 protrudes slightly so that it clamps onto the base tracks 302A, 303A of the underside of the base 300.

[0250] The tip bottom side 318 also includes a first tip protrusion 319A and a second tip protrusion 319B that extend laterally from the tip left track 312A to the tip right track 313A. The tip protrusions 319A. 319B extend out from the surface of the tip 319. The tip protrusions 319A, 319B are elongated bumps having a circular shape. The tip protrusions 319A, 319B protrude downward, which is toward the base 300 when the tip 310 and the base 300 are aligned. The tip protrusions 319A, 319B engage with the base recesses 309A, 309B, respectively, (see FIG. 13A) via snapping to further attach the tip 310 to the base 300, in addition to the engagement of the tracks 312A and 313A to 302A and 303A, respectively. The sizes of the tip protrusions 319A, 319B are exactly the same size as the openings of the base recesses 309A. 309B such that the tip protrusions 319A. 319B snaps securely and snugly into the base recesses 309A, 309B.

[0251] Furthermore, the tip bottom side 318 includes a stopper 320 that is positioned above the tip protrusions 319A. 319B. The stopper 320 is positioned approximately halfway between the tip upper edge 314 and the tip lower edge 315. The first tip protrusion 319A is positioned below the stopper 320, and the second tip protrusion 319B is positioned below the first tip protrusion 319A. The stopper 320 extends laterally from the tip left edge 312 to the tip right edge 313 but is slightly shorter than the tip protrusions 319A. 319B, as seen in FIG. 13B. By having an elevated surface facing downward, the stopper 320 blocks the base 300 from sliding further into the tip 310. The stopper 320 stops the base 300 at the desired location so that the base recesses 309A, 309B are engaged with the tip protrusions 319A, 319B, and the base tracks 302A, 303A are fully engaged with the tip tracks 312A, 313A.

[0252] The fourth embodiment is similar to the third embodiment except that the fourth embodiment has an extra base recess 309B and an extra tip protrusion 319B. All other descriptions and measurements of the third embodiment can be used for the fourth embodiment.

[0253] The size of the base and the tip varies based on the natural nail that the base and the tip are intended for. For example, the size of the base and the tip for a thumb nail is larger than the size of the base and the tip for a pinky nail. Each fingernail or toenail has a base and a tip size that is different from the other fingernails or toenails. Further, the mechanical features of the base and the tip also vary in size, shape, and/or design based on the size of the base and the tip. Additionally, a box comprises pairs of differently sized bases and tips, wherein the pairs correspond to different fingernails or toenails.

[0254] Various embodiments of the present systems and methods are disclosed in the subsequent list of numbered clauses: [0255] 1. An artificial nail system, comprising: a base that comprises a base top side, a base bottom side, and one or more first mechanical features configured to receive one or more corresponding second mechanical features on a tip, wherein: the base bottom side is configured to be attached to a natural nail, and the tip, the tip comprising a tip top side, a tip bottom side, and the one or more corresponding second mechanical features, wherein: the one or more second mechanical features of the tip cooperate with the one or more first mechanical features of the base to fit together to couple the tip onto the base such that the tip bottom side becomes attached to the base top side so that there is no relative movement between the base and the tip after attachment, and upon attachment to the base, the tip completely covers the base such that the base is no longer visible. [0256] 2. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features and the one or more second mechanical features each have a width that is less than the width of the base. [0257] 3. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features are positioned on the base top side, and the one or more second mechanical features are positioned on the tip bottom side. [0258] 4. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features and the one or more second mechanical features are positioned offset from a center longitudinal axis of the artificial nail system. [0259] 5. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features comprise base tracks. [0260] 6. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more second mechanical features comprise tip tracks. [0261] 7. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features of the base slides into the one or more second mechanical features of the tip. [0262] 8. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features of the base continues to slide into the one or more second mechanical features of the tip until the base is completely covered by the tip, at which point the sliding ends. [0263] 9. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the base top side comprises a base recess and the tip bottom side comprises a tip protrusion. [0264] 10. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the tip protrusion has the same volume as the space in the base recess. [0265] 11. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the tip protrusion snaps into the base recess to further couple the tip onto the base. [0266] 12. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features and the one or more second mechanical features are positioned along a center longitudinal axis of the artificial nail system. [0267] 13. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features comprise one or more ridges. [0268] 14. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more ridges comprise a protrusion and a plateau. [0269] 15. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the protrusion is an upward protrusion that extends upward from the base top side toward the tip bottom side. [0270] 16. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more second mechanical features comprise one or more grooves on the tip bottom side configured to snap onto the upward protrusion to secure the tip to the base. [0271] 17. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first ridges further comprise a downward protrusion that extends from the base bottom side towards the natural ail. [0272] 18. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the plateau comprises two elevated sides along a longitudinal axis of the artificial nail system to attach the tip to the base. [0273] 19. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more second mechanical features snap onto the one or more first mechanical features to attach together. [0274] 20. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the base bottom side is configured to receive an adhesive that is applied to attach the base bottom side to the natural nail. [0275] 21. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the adhesive is a gel sticker. [0276] 22. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the adhesive is a peel-off gel or nail glue. [0277] 23. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the adhesive is a non-wipe peel-off gel. [0278] 24. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein upon attachment of the tip to the base, there is no gap between the tip and the base. [0279] 25. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the base is made of a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) material, and the tip is made of an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic material or a PMMA material. [0280] 26. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the tip comprises one decorative tip from a set of interchangeable decorative tips. [0281] 27. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the tip can be detached from the base and a second tip can be attached to the base, and the tip can be attached to a second base. [0282] 28. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the size of the base and the tip varies based on the fingernail that the base and the tip are intended for. [0283] 29. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features and the one or more second mechanical features vary in size, shape, and/or design based on the size of the base and the tip. [0284] 30. The artificial nail system of any of the previous clauses, wherein a box comprises pairs of differently sized bases and tips, wherein the pairs correspond to different fingernails or toenails. [0285] 31. A method of applying an artificial nail system, comprising: attaching a base to a natural nail, wherein the base comprises one or more first mechanical features and has a base top side and a base bottom side, and wherein the base bottom side contacts the natural nail; attaching a tip to the base, wherein the tip comprises one or more second mechanical features and has a tip top side and a tip bottom side, wherein the one or more second mechanical features of the tip cooperate with the one or more first mechanical features of the base to couple the tip onto the base such that the tip bottom side contacts the base bottom side so that there is no relative movement between the base and the tip after attachment, and wherein upon attachment to the base, the tip completely covers the base such that the base is no longer visible. [0286] 32. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more second mechanical features snap onto the one or more first mechanical features to attach together. [0287] 33. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features comprise base tracks on the base top side, and the one or more second mechanical features comprise tip tracks on the tip bottom side. [0288] 34. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein the attaching the tip to the base comprises coupling one of the one or more edges of the base to one of the one of more tracks of the tip bottom side. [0289] 35. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein the one or more first mechanical features comprise one or more ridges, and the one or more second mechanical features comprise one or more grooves. [0290] 36. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein the attaching the tip to the base comprises coupling one of the one or more ridges of the base top side to one of the one of more grooves of the tip bottom side. [0291] 37. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein detaching the tip from the base comprises providing force to the one or more first mechanical features. [0292] 38. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein the base top side comprises a base recess and the tip bottom side comprises a tip protrusion. [0293] 39. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein the tip protrusion has the same volume as the space in the base recess. [0294] 40. The method of any of the previous clauses, wherein the attaching the tip to the base further comprises snapping the tip protrusion into the base recess. [0295] 41. The method of any of the previous clauses, further comprising detaching the tip from the base and attaching a second tip to the base and attaching the tip to a second base.

[0296] The descriptions above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Thus, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that modifications may be made as described without departing from the scope of the claims set out below.