ITEM ALIGNMENT DEVICE(S) AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

An item alignment device, according to some embodiments, comprises a substantially elongated rectangular body that extends from a first end to a second end, the body defining a top surface and a bottom surface, a plurality of upper teeth extending perpendicularly upward from the top surface of the body, and a plurality of lower teeth extending perpendicularly downward from the bottom surface of the body. Some embodiments include a second alignment device comprising a rectangular second body having a first end portion, a second end portion, and first and second members extending therebetween. In some embodiments, the second member is spaced apart from the first member and defines a receiving cutout configured to receive the item alignment device. In various embodiments, the alignment device and second alignment device are configured for use in conjunction with one another to align one or more items according to a set of requirements.

Claims

1. An item alignment device comprising: a substantially elongated rectangular body that extends from a first end to a second end, the body defining a top surface and a bottom surface; a plurality of upper teeth extending substantially perpendicularly upward from the top surface of the body, each respective upper tooth of the plurality of upper teeth having a first height and being spaced apart a first distance from at least one adjacent upper tooth; and a plurality of lower teeth extending substantially perpendicularly downward from the bottom surface of the body, each respective lower tooth of the plurality of lower teeth having a second height and being spaced apart a second distance from at least one adjacent lower tooth, wherein: the plurality of upper teeth define a plurality of upper recesses defined by two adjacent upper teeth of the plurality of upper teeth; and the plurality of lower teeth define a plurality of lower recesses defined by two adjacent lower teeth of the plurality of lower teeth.

2. The item alignment device of claim 1, wherein the first height, the first distance, the second height, and the second distance are substantially equal.

3. The item alignment device of claim 1, wherein: each respective upper tooth and each respective lower tooth are substantially cubic and substantially structurally identical; and each respective upper tooth is at least substantially aligned with a corresponding lower tooth.

4. The item alignment device of claim 1, further comprising: a first end portion disposed adjacent the first end of the body, the first end portion being spaced apart from a first upper tooth of the plurality of upper teeth and a first lower tooth of the plurality of lower teeth by the first distance; and a second end portion disposed adjacent the second end of the body, the second end portion being spaced apart from a second upper tooth of the plurality of upper teeth and a second lower tooth of the plurality of lower teeth by the first distance.

5. The item alignment device of claim 4, wherein: the first upper tooth is most proximate the first end out of the plurality of upper teeth; the first lower tooth is most proximate the first end out of the plurality of lower teeth; the second upper tooth is most proximate the second end out of the plurality of upper teeth; and the second lower tooth is most proximate the second end out of the plurality of lower teeth.

6. The item alignment device of claim 5, wherein the first end portion and the second end portion are substantially structurally identical.

7. The item alignment device of claim 1, wherein: the plurality of upper teeth comprise twenty three teeth; and the plurality of lower teeth comprise twenty three teeth.

8. The item alignment device of claim 1, wherein: the alignment device has a thickness of substantially .sup.th of an inch; the first height, the first distance, the second height, and the second distance are substantially .sup.th of an inch.

9. The item alignment device of claim 8, wherein: each of the plurality of upper teeth and each of the plurality of lower teeth have a width of .sup.th of an inch.

10. An apparatus for aligning items comprising: a first alignment device comprising: a substantially rectangular first body having a first length, a first thickness, and a first height that extends from a first end to a second end, the substantially rectangular first body defining an upper surface and a bottom surface; a first set of teeth extending perpendicularly upward from the upper surface, the first set of teeth having a first width and being substantially evenly spaced apart along the upper surface by a first distance; and a second set of teeth extending perpendicularly downward from the bottom surface, the second set of teeth having a second width and being substantially evenly spaced apart along the bottom surface by a second distance; and a second alignment device comprising: a substantially rectangular second body having a second length and a second thickness comprising: a first end portion; a second end portion; a substantially rigid first member that extends between the first end portion and the second end portion; and a substantially rigid second member that extends between the first end portion and the second end portion and is spaced apart from the first member such that the substantially rigid second body defines a first alignment device receiving cutout that is defined by the first end portion, the second end portion, the first member, and the second member, wherein: the first length is the second length; the first thickness is the second thickness; the first height is double the first width; the first width is the first distance; the second width is the first width; and the second distance is the first distance.

11. The apparatus for aligning items of claim 10, wherein: the first width, the second width, the first distance, the second distance, the first thickness, and the second distance are substantially .sup.th of an inch.

12. The apparatus for aligning items of claim 10, wherein the second alignment device is configured to slidably maintain and at least temporarily couple at least one first alignment device perpendicular to the second alignment device such that: the first member is disposed between and engaged by each of a first upper tooth and a second upper tooth that is adjacent to the first upper tooth from the first set of teeth; the second member is disposed between and engaged by each of a first bottom tooth and a second bottom tooth that is adjacent the first bottom tooth from the second set of teeth; and a first portion of the substantially rectangular first body defined by a first spacing between the first upper tooth and the second upper tooth and a second spacing between the first bottom tooth and the second bottom tooth is disposed between and engaged by each of the first member and the second member.

13. The apparatus for aligning items of claim 12, wherein the second alignment device is configured to receive the first alignment device through the first alignment device receiving cutout to facilitate the at least temporary coupling of the at least one first alignment device perpendicular to the second alignment device such.

14. The apparatus for aligning items of claim 12, wherein: the at least one first alignment device comprises at least four alignment devices; and the at least four alignment devices are configured to form a slidable stack of alignment devices configured to slide perpendicular to the second body within the first alignment device receiving cutout along a length of each of the first member and the second member between the first end portion and the second end portion.

15. The apparatus for aligning items of claim 10, wherein the first set of teeth comprise twenty three teeth and the second set of teeth comprise twenty three teeth, wherein each respective tooth in the first set of teeth has a corresponding tooth in the second set of teeth.

16. The apparatus for aligning items of claim 10, wherein a first profile of the first alignment device is substantially similar to a second profile of the second alignment device such that, when the first alignment device is placed on and aligned with the second alignment device, the first alignment device and the second alignment device form a substantially rectangular prism.

17. A kit comprising: a first type of alignment device comprising: a substantially rectangular first body having a first length, a first thickness, and a first height that extends from a first end to a second end, the substantially rectangular first body defining an upper surface and a bottom surface; a first set of teeth extending perpendicularly upward from the upper surface, the first set of teeth having a first width and being substantially evenly spaced apart along the upper surface by a first distance; and a second set of teeth extending perpendicularly downward from the bottom surface, the second set of teeth having a second width and being substantially evenly spaced apart along the bottom surface by a second distance; and a second type of alignment device comprising: a substantially rectangular second body having a second length and a second thickness comprising: a first end portion; a second end portion; a substantially rigid first member that extends between the first end portion and the second end portion; and a substantially rigid second member that extends between the first end portion and the second end portion and is spaced apart from the first member such that the substantially rigid second body defines a first alignment device receiving cutout that is defined by the first end portion, the second end portion, the first member, and the second member, wherein: the first length is the second length; the first thickness is the second thickness; the first height is double the first width; the first width is the first distance; the second width is the first width; and the second distance is the first distance.

18. The kit of claim 17, comprising: at least two of the first type of alignment device; and at least one of the second type of alignment device.

19. The kit of claim 18, comprising: five of the first type of alignment device; and two of the second type of alignment device.

20. The kit of claim 19, further comprising an alignment device case comprising: an elongated rectangular body defining a recess; and a cap, wherein: the recess is dimensioned to receive the five of the first type of alignment device and the two of the second type of alignment device such that, when each of the five of the first type of alignment device and the two of the second type of alignment device are disposed within the recess in a stack, the cap at least temporarily secures the five of the first type of alignment device and the two of the second type of alignment device within the alignment device case.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] In the course of this description, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0016] FIG. 1 is an alignment device in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 2A is a front view of the alignment device of FIG. 1;

[0018] FIG. 2B is a detail view of the alignment device of FIG. 2A;

[0019] FIG. 3 is a top view of the alignment device of FIG. 1;

[0020] FIG. 4 is an alignment device in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 5 is a front view of the alignment device of FIG. 4;

[0022] FIG. 6 is a top view of the alignment device of FIG. 5;

[0023] FIG. 7 is a front view of an alignment device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 8 depicts a top view of a pair of alignment devices according to various embodiments that have been at least temporarily coupled to one another for use in placing one or more items;

[0025] FIG. 9 is a detail view of the coupled alignment devices of FIG. 8;

[0026] FIG. 10 is a top view of a set of alignment devices according to various embodiments that have been at least temporarily coupled to one another for use in placing one or more items;

[0027] FIG. 11 depicts a portion of a uniform for which various embodiments described herein may be utilized for the placement of items thereon;

[0028] FIG. 12 depicts an example of using an alignment device for the placement of one or more items on a uniform in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIGS. 13-17 depict examples of various uniforms and items for which various embodiments described herein may be utilized for the placement of such items;

[0030] FIG. 18 depicts an example of using an alignment device for the placement of one or more items on a uniform in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 19 is an alignment device case in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 20 is a cap for the alignment device case in accordance with particular embodiments;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Various embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

Overview

[0034] As may be understood in light of this disclosure, organizations such as the United States Army, the Navy, the Air Force, the Space Force, the Marine Corps, the Coast Guard, a state's police force, a city's police force, a city's firefighters, etc., often require members associated with them to wear uniforms. Often, these members are responsible for at least temporarily affixing (e.g., pinning) one or more items on their uniform. These items may include, for example, medals, badges, ribbons, etc., and are often granted to the members to distinguish them from others in similar uniforms. The members may, for example, receive these items upon attainment of a position, a goal, an honor, and similar marks of distinguishment. Each different item, when worn on the uniform, may have an associated set of rules related to how and where the items is placed. When attaching the items to their uniforms, the members are further responsible for confirming the location, orientation, and alignment of each item follows the set of rules. The procedure of precise attachment for each item may require a relatively heavy investment of at least time and energy, particularly as members acquire more items for placement on their uniform.

[0035] Beyond formal requirements, an individual may choose or desire to adhere to a specific arrangement structure (e.g., with respect to spacing, orientation, etc.) when placing one or more items adjacent each other (e.g., whether for placement on a uniform or other garment or otherwise). Accordingly, various aspects of the present disclosure provide alignment devices, apparatuses, and related techniques that improve the ease and accuracy of item placement and arrangement.

Alignment Devices

[0036] FIG. 1 depicts a first alignment device 100 according to a particular embodiment. As may be understood from FIG. 1, the first alignment device 100 comprises a substantially rectangular (e.g., rectangular), elongated body 110. The body 110 comprises a set of upper teeth 150 that extend from an upper surface of the body 110 and a set of corresponding lower teeth 170 that extend from a bottom surface of the body 110. As shown in FIG. 1, each tooth in the set of upper teeth 150 are substantially structurally identical. In the embodiment shown in this figure, each tooth is substantially cubic (e.g., cubic) and spaced apart from each adjacent tooth by a distance that corresponds to a width of each tooth. As such, the set of upper teeth 150 are substantially evenly (e.g., evenly) spaced apart. Each pair of adjacent teeth of the upper teeth 150 define an upper recess 160 that is dimensioned to accommodate an individual tooth from the upper teeth 150 (i.e., each upper recess 160 has a width, height, and depth that corresponds to a width, height, and depth of each tooth in the set of upper teeth 150).

[0037] Similarly, each tooth in the set of lower teeth 170 are substantially structurally identical (i.e., to one another and to the upper teeth 150). As such, the set of lower teeth 170 are substantially evenly (e.g., evenly) spaced apart. Each pair of adjacent teeth of the lower teeth 170 define a lower recess 180 that is dimensioned to accommodate an individual tooth from the lower teeth 170 (i.e., each lower recess 180 has a width, height, and depth that corresponds to a width, height, and depth of each tooth in the set of 170). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, each tooth from the set of upper teeth 150 has a corresponding tooth in the set of 170. Each tooth in the set of lower teeth 170, for example, has a corresponding tooth from the set of upper teeth 150 that extends from an opposing portion of the opposing face of the body 110. In this way, as maybe understood from the figures and this disclosure, the upper teeth 150, the lower teeth 170, and each intervening recess (e.g., 160, 180) are substantially aligned with one another.

[0038] Although the sets of upper teeth 150 and lower teeth 170 are described as extending from opposing portions of the body 110, it should be understood that various embodiments of the first alignment device 100 may have a substantially rectangular body 110 with the upper recesses 160 and lower recesses 180 defined (e.g., cut into) opposing portions thereof. In this way, although the first alignment device 100 comprises upper and lower teeth 150, 170, it should be understood that such teeth may be produced in any suitable manner (e.g., beginning with a rectangular body 110 as a starting point and cutting the recesses into opposing sides, injection molding into a mold having a structure of the toothed body 110, etc.).

[0039] In various embodiments, the first alignment device 100 further comprises a first end portion 120 (e.g., first end portion) disposed adjacent a first end of the body 110. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the first end portion 120 has a substantially square profile and defines a first cavity 125 (See FIG. 2A). In various aspects the first cavity is configured to receive a magnet and maintain the magnet within the first end portion 120. In some aspects, a magnet of the first end portion 120 is configured to at least temporarily affix a first alignment device 100 to a similarly structured alignment device by way of a corresponding magnet in the similarly structured alignment device. The first alignment device 100 further comprise a second end portion 130 disposed adjacent a second end of the body 110. As with the first end portion 120, the second end portion 130, in some embodiments, defines a second cavity 135 (See FIG. 2A) that is configured to receive a magnet and maintain the magnet within the second end portion 130. In some embodiments, the first and second end portions 120, 130 are substantially solid (e.g., do not define one or more cavities).

[0040] In various embodiments, each of the first end portion 120 and the second end portion 130 may include one or more rounded and/or chamfered edges (e.g., as shown I FIG. 2A and FIG. 1). In other embodiments, the first end portion 120 and the second end portion 130 are substantially square (e.g., square). In still other embodiments, the first end portion 120 and the second end portion 130 have any other suitable profile.

[0041] In various embodiments, the first alignment device 100 does not include the first and second end portions 120, 130 shown in FIG. 1. In such embodiments, the sets of upper teeth 150 and lower teeth 150 may extend all the way between the first end and the second end of the first alignment device 100.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, the first alignment device 100 is substantially symmetrical (e.g., symmetrical), both vertically and horizontally. In the embodiment shown in this figure, each of the first end portion 120 and the second end portion 130 are disposed on opposing ends of the body 110 are substantially structurally identical. In the embodiment shown in this figure, a height of the body 110 is substantially double (e.g., double) a height of each tooth in both the set of upper teeth 150 and the set of lower teeth 170.

[0043] In any embodiment described herein, a first alignment device 100 (e.g., or second alignment device 200 or any other component described herein) may comprise any suitable material (e.g., plastic, metal, etc.) and be manufactured using any suitable technique (e.g., injection molding, additive manufacturing etc.).

[0044] Turning to FIG. 2A, additional detail is shown with respect to a front view of the first alignment device 100 from FIG. 1. As shown, the body 110 extends from a first end 112 adjacent the first end portion 120 to a second end 114 adjacent the second end portion 130. In other embodiments, the first alignment device 100 may house one or more magnets in any other suitable manner (e.g., other than in the manner shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2A). In the embodiment shown in this figure, the first end portion 120 has a height (A) that corresponds to a width (A) of a set of two teeth and two recesses.

[0045] As may be understood from this figure, in various embodiments, the set of upper teeth 150 comprise twenty-three teeth (e.g., 150A-150W). Similarly, the set of lower teeth 170 comprise twenty-three teeth (e.g., 170A-170W). As shown in the detail view of FIG. 2B, each tooth (e.g., 150T) of the set of upper teeth 150 defines a first upper recess defining face 152 and a second lower recess defining face 154. For example, two adjacent teeth from the set of upper teeth 150 (e.g., 150S and 150T) define an upper recess 160 (e.g., 160ST) between them. The upper recess 160 (e.g., 160ST) is defined by the first upper recess defining face 152 (e.g., 152T) of tooth 150T and the second lower recess defining face 154 (e.g., 154S) of tooth 150S. Further, each tooth (e.g., 150S and 150T) is, in this embodiment, spaced apart by a distance (B) that corresponds to a height (B) and width (B) of each tooth from the set of upper teeth 150. Additionally, the height (A) of the first alignment device 100 (as shown in FIG. 2A) corresponds to four times the distance (B) by which each tooth is spaced apart (as well as the height (B) and width (B) of each tooth). In some embodiments, the spaced-apart-distance (B), tooth height (B), and tooth width (B) are each substantially of an inch (e.g., of an inch). In such embodiments, the height (A) of the first alignment device 100 is substantially an inch (e.g., an inch). In particular aspects, as may be understood from the measurements of various components discussed herein, the first alignment device 100 may have an overall length of 5ths of an inch (e.g., 6 and .sup.th inches).

[0046] Although the above description of spacing and configuration is shown with respect to the set of upper teeth 150, it should be understood that in the embodiment shown in these figures, the set of lower teeth 170 are substantially structurally identical to (e.g., structurally identical to) the set of upper teeth 150, such that the spacing, size, orientation, and positioning of each tooth in the set of lower teeth 170 are similar to the set of upper teeth 150 (other than that the set of lower teeth 170 extend downward from the bottom portion 118 of the body 110, in a direction opposite to the set of upper teeth 150). For example, each upper tooth 150 is, in various embodiments, substantially co-linear with a corresponding lower tooth 170. In some embodiments, the first alignment device 100 includes just a set of upper teeth 150. In other embodiments, the first alignment device comprises just a set of lower teeth 170.

[0047] FIG. 3 depicts a top view of the first alignment device 100. As may be understood from this figure a thickness (B) of the first alignment device 100 also corresponds to the height (B) and width (B) of each tooth from the set of upper teeth 150, as well as the distance (B) by which each tooth in both the upper teeth 150 and lower teeth 170 are spaced apart. Additionally, FIG. 3 further illustrates that the set of upper teeth 150 extend between the first end portion 120 and the second end portion 130 (and include, in various embodiment, twenty-three total teeth 150A-150W spaced apart via intervening respective recessed (e.g., 160AB-160VW). The first tooth in the set of upper teeth (e.g., 150A) is further spaced apart from the first end portion 120 by a recess 160A defined by the tooth 150A and the first end portion 120. Similarly, the last tooth in the set of upper teeth (e.g., 150W) is further spaced apart from the second end portion 130 by a recess 160W defined by the tooth 150W and the second end portion 130.

[0048] In the embodiment shown in these figures, the first alignment device 100 includes a particular number of upper and lower teeth. It should be understood that, in various other embodiments of a first alignment device 100, the first alignment device 100 may include a different number of upper teeth, lower teeth, and/or both. In some embodiments, the teeth may have widths, heights, and spacing that are other than uniform. In still other aspects, the overall length, height, or thickness of the first alignment device 100 (e.g., or second alignment device 200 discussed below) may vary based on, for example, the application of the alignment device (i.e., the types of items for which the device may be used to aid in alignment, arrangement, etc.). A set of regulations for which the smallest spacing is of an inch may, for example, comprise a set of teeth that have inch dimensions, are spaced inch apart, and are disposed on a first alignment device 100 having a thickness of inch. In this way, a user may use the first alignment device 100 to align and space items without requiring a stack of multiple alignment devices. As may be understood from the description herein and will be described more fully below, the first alignment device 100 may be suited for use in placing items adjacent and relative to one another by virtue of the placement of its various components and the use of relational spacing with respect to the distance (B) and the distance (A) that are echoed among the various components of the first alignment device 100.

[0049] Turning to FIG. 4, a second alignment device 200 is shown. In various aspects, the second alignment device 200 may be configured to be used in conjunction with the first alignment device 100, for example, for use in placing one or more items adjacent and/or relative to one another. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the second alignment device 200 is an elongated, substantially rectangular (e.g., rectangular) prism that extends from a first end to a second end. The second alignment device 200 further comprises a first end portion 220 (e.g., having a substantially square profile) adjacent the first end and a second end portion 230 (e.g., having a structure that substantially corresponds to the first end portion 220) adjacent the second end). In some aspects, each of the first end portion 220 and the second end portion 230 have a respective first cavity 225 (See FIG. 5) and second cavity 235 (See FIG. 5) for at least temporarily housing a magnet.

[0050] In some aspects, the second alignment device 200 has a length, height, and thickness that substantially corresponds to a length, height, and thickness of the first alignment device 100. In this way, a respective location of the magnets within the first cavity (See FIG. 2A), the second cavity 135, the first cavity 225, and the second cavity 235 may be such that, when placed against one another, the set of magnets cooperate to maintain the first alignment device 100 against the second alignment device 200 such that a combined form of the first alignment device 100 and the second alignment device 200 forms a substantially rectangular (e.g., rectangular) prism.

[0051] As may be understood from FIG. 4, the second alignment device 200 comprises an upper member 250 and a lower member 270 that extend, spaced apart from one another, between the first end portion 220 and the second end portion 230. Each of the upper member 250 and the lower member 270 are substantially rectangular (e.g., rectangular) and substantially parallel (e.g., parallel) to one another. The upper member 250 has an upper member front face 252, an upper member rear face 254, and an upper member inner face 216. Similarly, the lower member 270 has a lower member front face 272, a lower member rear face 274, and a lower member inner face 218. As shown in this figure, the upper member inner face 216 and the lower member inner face 218 are co-facing, and spaced apart from one another. The first end portion 220, the upper member 250, the second end portion 230, and the lower member 270 define a substantially rectangular (e.g., rectangular) first alignment device receiving cutout 210. In particular, a first end portion inner face 212 of the first end portion 220, the upper member inner face 216 of the upper member 250, a second end portion inner face 214 of the second end portion 230, and the lower member inner face 218 of the lower member 270 define the first alignment device receiving cutout 210. In various aspects, the upper member 250 has a height and thickness that correspond to a height and thickness of the upper teeth 150. Similarly, the lower member 270 may have a height and thickness that correspond to a height and thickness of the 170. In some aspects, the upper member 250 and the lower member 270 include markings (e.g., notches etc.) of any suitable kind to delineate a particular distance. In some embodiments, the particular distance is the distance (B) that corresponds to each of: (1) the distance (B) by which each tooth 150A-W is spaced apart; (2) the height (B) of each tooth; and (3) the width (B) of each tooth.

[0052] In various embodiments, the second alignment device 200 compromises an intermediate support portion 315 that extends between the upper member 250 and the lower member 270 substantially centrally within the second alignment device 200. In such embodiments the intermediate support portion 315 may provide additional rigidity to the second alignment device 200 (e.g., by reducing a span of the upper member 250 and the lower member 270). In such embodiments, the second alignment device 200 may define more than one first alignment device receiving cutout 210 (e.g., a plurality). In still other embodiments, the second alignment device 200 may include more than one intermediate support portions 315 (e.g., any suitable number to provide sufficient rigidity to the second alignment device 200, while still enabling the coordinating functionality of the first alignment device 100 and second alignment device 200 discussed more fully below).

[0053] FIG. 5 depicts a front view of the second alignment device 200. As shown in this figure, the second alignment device 200 has a height (A) that corresponds to the height (A) of the first alignment device 100. As further shown in this figure, each of the upper member 250 and the lower member 270 respectively have a height (B) that corresponds to each of: (1) the distance (B) by which each tooth 150A-W is spaced apart; (2) the height (B) of each tooth; and (3) the width (B) of each tooth. In some aspects, the first alignment device receiving cutout 210 is dimensioned to correspond to dimensions of the body 110 of the first alignment device 100.

[0054] FIG. 6 depicts a top view of the second alignment device 200. As shown in this figure, in various aspects, the thickness (B) of the second alignment device 200 substantially corresponds to each of: (1) the distance (B) by which each tooth 150A-W is spaced apart; (2) the height (B) of each tooth; (3) the width (B) of each tooth; and (4) the thickness (B) of the first alignment device 100.

[0055] FIG. 7 depicts a second alignment device 200 (e.g., 300) according to yet another embodiment. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the second alignment device 200 compromises an intermediate support portion 315 that extends between the upper member 250 and the lower member 270 substantially centrally within the second alignment device 200. In such embodiments the intermediate support portion 315 may provide additional rigidity to the second alignment device 200 (e.g., by reducing a span of the upper member 250 and the lower member 270). In such embodiments, the second alignment device 200 may define more than one first alignment device receiving cutout 210 (e.g., a plurality). For example, the second alignment device 200 may include a first alignment device receiving cutout 120 between the first end portion 220 and the intermediate support portion 315 and a second alignment device receiving cutout between the intermediate support portion 315 and the second end portion 330. In still other embodiments, the second alignment device 200 may include more than one intermediate support portions 315 (e.g., any suitable number to provide sufficient rigidity to the second alignment device 200), while still enabling the coordinating functionality of the first alignment device 100 and second alignment device 200 discussed more fully below).

[0056] FIG. 8 depicts a first alignment device 100 slidably coupled to a second alignment device 200. As may be understood from the figures and this description, the second alignment device 200 is configured to support the first alignment device 100 within the first alignment device receiving cutout 210 such that each of the upper member 250 and the lower member 270 are slidably disposed within opposing recesses of the first alignment device 100 (i.e., disposed between adjacent upper and lower teeth from the set of upper teeth 150 and the set of lower teeth 170). In various aspects, a user may, for example, insert one end of the first alignment device 100 through the first alignment device receiving cutout 210 of the second alignment device 200 such that the first alignment device 100 is substantially perpendicular (e.g., perpendicular) to the second alignment device 200.

[0057] The user may then: (1) align the upper member 250 with a particular recess defined by two of the upper teeth 150; (2) align the lower member 270 with a corresponding recess defined by two corresponding lower teeth 170; and (3) rotate the first alignment device 100 so that the upper member 250 slides between two of the upper teeth 150 and the lower member 270 slides between two of the lower teeth 170. As shown in FIG. 9., the upper member 250 is now disposed between two of the upper teeth 150 (e.g., 150B and 150C) such that the upper teeth 150 are maintaining the upper member 250 in a fixed lateral position relative to the first alignment device 100. Similarly, the lower member 270 is now disposed between two of the lower teeth 170 (e.g., 170B and 170C) such that the lower teeth 170 are maintaining the lower member 270 in a fixed lateral position relative to the first alignment device 100. As may further be understood from FIG. 9, the second lower recess defining face 154 and the first upper recess defining face 152 (e.g., 154B and 152C) are engaging opposing portions of the upper member 250 (e.g., the upper member front face 252 and the upper member rear face 254).

[0058] In this configuration, the first alignment device 100 is at least temporarily substantially fixed (e.g., fixed) in a perpendicular orientation relative to the second alignment device 200. The user may then slide the body 110 along a length of the second alignment device 200 (in the directions of the arrows within the first alignment device receiving cutout 210) between the first end portion 220 and the second end portion 230. In other embodiments, the user may then slide the body 110 along a length of the second alignment device 200 (in the directions of the arrows within the first alignment device receiving cutout 210) between one of the first end portion 220 or the second end portion 230 and one or more intervening intermediate support portions 315.

[0059] As may be further understood from the figures, when the first alignment device 100 is coupled to the second alignment device 200 in the arrangement shown in FIG. 8, the portion of the upper portion 116 that defines the base of the upper recess 160 in which the upper member 250 is disposed engages and is co-facing with the upper member inner face 216. Similarly, the portion of the bottom portion 118 that defines the base of the lower recess 180 in which the lower member 270 is disposed engages and is co-facing with the lower member inner face 218. The coordination in the height of the body 110 and the height of the first alignment device receiving cutout 210 (with both having a dimension of 2 times the distance B) results in the body 110 being supported between the upper member 250 and the lower member 270 (e.g., in the first alignment device receiving cutout 210) substantially snuggly to maintain the first alignment device 100 in a particular position along a length of the second alignment device 200 (i.e., between the first end portion 220 and the second end portion 230, between the first end portion 220 and the intermediate support portion 315 if present, etc.) and substantially loosely to enable a user to easily slide the first alignment device 100 relative to the second alignment device 200 into a desired position for use in placing items.

[0060] In order to decouple the first alignment device 100 from the second alignment device 200, the user may rotate the first alignment device 100 until the upper teeth 150 clear the upper member 250 and the lower teeth 170 clear the lower member 270. The user may then pull the first alignment device 100 out of the first alignment device receiving cutout 210 until the first alignment device 100 and second alignment device 200 are fully separated. FIG. 9 depicts a detail view of an exemplary first alignment device 100 and second alignment device 200 with the first alignment device 100 disposed in the second alignment device 200 such that the upper member 250 and lower member 270 are disposed between corresponding upper and lower pairs of teeth.

[0061] Turning to FIG. 10, another embodiment of an item alignment mechanism is shown. In this figure, a stack of four first alignment devices 100A-D have been coupled to the second alignment device 200 in corresponding recesses such that the stack forms a slidable block that is four first alignment devices 100 thick (e.g., 4 times distance B). This configuration may, for example, be utilized for aligning and arranging items (e.g., that require perpendicular placement) in which such spacing may be desired. In other embodiments, multiple first alignment devices may be coupled perpendicular to the second alignment device and spaced apart from one another. In this way, the set of alignment devices may provide a set of parallel first alignment devices with a desired spacing (e.g., spaced apart by a desired distance) to facilitate item placement.

Exemplary Alignment Device Use

[0062] FIGS. 11-18 depict examples of the use of alignment device(s) in accordance with various embodiments described herein. FIG. 11 depicts a uniform (e.g., military uniform) for which a user may utilize one or more alignment devices described herein in the placement of one or more ribbons, badges, medals, etc. on the uniform (e.g., via pinning, etc.).

[0063] Each item on the uniform may, for example, have a different set of placement requirements (e.g., placement location with respect to the uniform itself or a feature thereof such as a pocket or lapel, placement location with respect to one or more other items affixed to the uniform, etc.). The placement requirements may define, for example, spacing requirements, orientation requirements, alignment requirements, etc.).

[0064] FIG. 12 depicts an example of how a user might utilize a first alignment device 100 to properly space one or more ribbons 410 with respect to a pocket 400 of the uniform. In various aspects, a user may desire (i.e., in order to follow one or more rules or regulations with respect to placement of the one or more ribbons 410) to position the one or more ribbons 410 above the pocket 400 such that the one or more ribbons 410 are centered on the pocket 400 and spaced apart from the pocket 400 a particular distance. In some aspects, the particular distance may be distance (B) (e.g., .sup.th of an inch). As such, in order to place the one or more ribbons 410 on the uniform, the user may place a first alignment device 100 centered against the top of the pocket 400 such that either the set of upper teeth 150 or the set of lower teeth 170 are pressed against the uniform and the first alignment device 100 sits perpendicular to the pocket 400. The user may visually utilize the set of teeth to center the first alignment device 100 on the pocket 400 and place the one or more ribbons 410 (again, using the set of teeth to visually center the one or more ribbons 410 with respect to the pocket 400) against the first alignment device 100 above the pocket 400. In this way, the user can place the one or more ribbons 410 spaced apart from the pocket 400 by a distance that corresponds to a thickness of the first alignment device 100 (i.e., the distance (B); e.g., .sup.th of an inch).

[0065] FIG. 13 depicts yet another item that a user may place accurately (e.g., according to a set of rules) through use of a first alignment device 100, a second alignment device 200, or some combination of the two. In some aspects, one or more badges 415 may be required to be placed a distance of 2*B (e.g., .sup.th of an inch) above the set of ribbons or above the pocket (e.g., if there are no ribbons placed). In order to place such items accurately, a user may stack a first first alignment device 100 and a second first alignment device 100 (e.g., by aligning and magnetically coupling them to one another). The user may then place the stacked first alignment device 100 and first alignment device 100 against the top of the ribbons (e.g., or pocket), so that one or more badges 415 can be accurately placed the proper distance above (e.g., again centered through visual use of the set of teeth).

[0066] FIG. 14 depicts yet another item that a user may place accurately (e.g., according to a set of rules) through use of a first alignment device 100, a second alignment device 200, or some combination of the two. As may be understood in this figure, a user may desire (e.g., or be required) to place one or more badges 420 centered substantially horizontally (e.g., horizontally) on the pocket 400, a distance (B) below the top of the pocket. A user may utilize the first alignment device 100 to align the first alignment device 100 with the top of the pocket to provide the proper spacing and alignment.

[0067] FIG. 15 depicts yet another item type that a user may desire to accurately place on a uniform. Similar to the one or more ribbons, one or more emblems may be required to be placed a distance (B) above a second pocket on the uniform. Such emblems, may, for example, be accurately placed through operation of the first alignment device 100 as described herein. FIG. 16 depicts another item which a user may be required to substantially center on a pocket. In some aspects, the user may utilize a combination of a first alignment device 100 and a second alignment device 200 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 in order to properly center, space, and align such an item. FIG. 17 depicts yet another item which may have particular spacing and positioning requirements. In some aspects, a foreign badge or similar item may have spacing requirements that are dictated by a presence or absence of additional items. In one aspect, such an item may require placement .sup.th of an inch above a pocket flap, or of an inch above any unit awards, if present. By virtue of the configuration, of the various first alignment devices 100 and second alignment device 200 described herein, a user may utilize at least one first alignment device 100 in a stack in order to provide a stack of the appropriate thickness to provide the proper spacing distance (while still being able to visually center items using the set of teeth).

[0068] In still other embodiments, a user may temporarily perpendicularly couple two or more first alignment devices 10 with two or more second alignment devices 200. In this way, the user may create a combined alignment device with one or more spaced apart parallel alignment devices (100 or 200) that are perpendicular to a second type of alignment device. Such a configuration may, for example, enable a user to align and center certain items with respect to others (e.g., a medal with respect to a pocket) with the proper spacing.

[0069] FIG. 18 depicts an exemplary set of items whose placement and arrangement are suited to use of the combination of first alignment device 100 and second alignment device 200 shown in FIG. 10. The arrangement, for example, may call for a vertical alignment along with a four-first alignment device 100-thick spacing (e.g., inch) between a set of ribbons 410 and one or more medals 415. As further shown, the second alignment device 200 may provide a vertical aligner against which both the set of ribbons 410 and the medals 415 can be aligned (e.g., such that an edge of each of the set of ribbons 410 and the medals 415 are substantially evenly aligned against the second alignment device). In this way, both the set of ribbons 410 and the medals 415 and be simultaneously, accurately aligned and spaced apart through the combination of the single second alignment device 200 and the set of four first alignment devices 100. As may be understood from this set of examples, a user may utilize one or more first alignment devices 100 and one or more second alignment devices 200 in any suitable combination to effect proper spacing and relative placement of any desired item or items. For example, although FIG. 18 depicts a stack of four adjacent first alignment devices 100, other users may space apart different first alignment devices 100 (or groups of first alignment device 100) along a single second alignment device 200 to provide alignment (and proper spacing) between multiple adjacent items). As may be understood from the description herein and these examples, the alignment devices described, either alone or in combination, can enable a user to place items quickly and accurately as desired (e.g., according to a set of regulations) through utilizing different combinations and techniques of alignment devices.

Alignment Device Kit

[0070] In various embodiments, an alignment device kit may include a set of alignment devices. The set of alignment devices may, for example, be used in combination in order to facilitate the placement and alignment of items with respect to one another (e.g., or respect to a reference point, line, feature, etc.). In some embodiments, the alignment device kit further includes a case configured to at least temporarily house the set of alignment devices. FIG. 19 depicts an exemplary case 500. As shown in this figure, the case 500 comprises a cap receiving portion 510 and defines a cavity 505. In various embodiments, the cavity 505 is dimensioned to receive the set of alignment devices. In particular aspects, the cavity 505 is dimensioned such that the profile of the cavity 505 corresponds to a profile of a stack of alignment devices that make up the set of alignment devices (e.g., when the set of alignment devices are aligned in a stack and magnetically coupled to one another as described above). In any embodiment described herein, the set of alignment devices may comprise any suitable combination of at least one first alignment device 100 and at least one second alignment device 200. In other embodiments, the set of alignment devices may include more than one first alignment device 100 or more than one second alignment device 200. In a particular embodiment, the set of alignment devices comprises: (1) two alignment devices that are structurally similar to (e.g., structurally the same as) the second alignment device 200; and (2) five alignment devices that are structurally similar to (e.g., structurally the same as) the first alignment device 100.

[0071] In various embodiments, the case 500 includes a coupling mechanism 512 for at least temporarily maintaining a cap 550 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 20) adjacent an end of the case 500. In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism 512 may include any suitable mechanism for engaging and/or interfacing with a corresponding structure or portion of the cap 550. In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism 512 includes one or more magnets. In other embodiments, the coupling mechanism 512 may include a lip, ball or other detent, ridge, and/or the like. In other embodiments, the coupling mechanism 512 may include any suitable coupling mechanism.

[0072] FIG. 20 depicts an exemplary cap 550 for use with the case 500 in storing the set of alignment devices. In other embodiments, the case 500 and the cap 550 may have any other suitable structural arrangement for storing a set of alignment devices. In some embodiments, the cap 550 comprises a coupling mechanism 552 that is configured to engage the coupling mechanism 512 of the case 500. In some embodiments, the coupling mechanisms 512, 552 have complimentary geometry for at least temporarily fixing a position of the case 500 relative to the cap 550.

CONCLUSION

[0073] Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. In addition, it should be understood that various embodiments may include any suitable combination of device/apparatus described herein.

[0074] For example, other embodiments of an alignment device may share various structural similarities to one or more alignment devices described herein. For example, various embodiments of an alignment device include a set of teeth on at least one of an upper or lower portion of the alignment device. In some embodiments, an alignment device may include variations of one or more end portions described herein (e.g., including or excluding an end portion, etc.). In still other embodiments, an alignment device may include one or more markings in conjunction with and/or in lieu of the one or more teeth described herein (e.g., on both an upper and/or lower portion of the device). Other embodiments may include any other suitable set of features described herein in any suitable configuration. Still other embodiments may provide similar functional utility to other embodiments described herein in another, related structural form.

[0075] As used herein, the terms about, approximate, at or about, and substantially mean that the amount or value in question can be the exact value or a value that provides equivalent results or effects as recited in the claims or taught herein. That is, it is understood that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art such that equivalent results or effects are obtained. In some circumstances, the value that provides equivalent results or effects cannot be reasonably determined. In such cases, it is generally understood, as used herein, that about and at or about mean the nominal value indicated 10% variation unless otherwise indicated or inferred. In general, an amount, size, formulation, parameter or other quantity or characteristic is about, approximate, or at or about whether or not expressly stated to be such. It is understood that where about, approximate, or at or about is used before a quantitative value, the parameter also includes the specific quantitative value itself, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0076] As used herein, the terms optional or optionally means that the subsequently described event, feature, component, or circumstance can or cannot occur or be present, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0077] In light of the above, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purposes of limitation.