| |
| United States Patent Application |
20080035683
|
| Kind Code
|
A1
|
|
Wynn; Vincent D.
|
February 14, 2008
|
Ball Cap Stretching and Blocking Systems
Abstract
A portable apparatus that allows users to block, steam, stretch, and/or
dry ball caps, including a kit and methods. The ball cap is placed onto
the steamer. The steamer has a hemispherical back portion that provides
steam, and a front portion that moves to stretch the ball cap while
excluding steam from the decorated front portion of the ball cap. The
ball cap can be stretched, with or without steam, to adjust the size of
the cap. The ball cap can be hot-air dried by the apparatus to block the
ball cap to the correct shape. The front portions may be interchangeable
with different front portions having different shapes.
| Inventors: |
Wynn; Vincent D.; (Gallatin, TN)
|
| Correspondence Name and Address:
|
STONEMAN LAW OFFICES, LTD
3113 NORTH 3RD STREET
PHOENIX
AZ
85012
US
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| Serial No.:
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837478 |
| Series Code:
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11
|
| Filed:
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August 10, 2007 |
| U.S. Current Class: |
223/15; 223/24; 223/26; 223/52 |
| U.S. Class at Publication: |
223/15; 223/24; 223/26; 223/52 |
| Intern'l Class: |
A42C 1/04 20060101 A42C001/04; A42C 1/00 20060101 A42C001/00; D06C 15/00 20060101 D06C015/00 |
Claims
1) A ball cap blocking and stretching system, relating to blocking at
least one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at least one crown
and at least one brim, such at least one crown having at least one front,
at least one inside surface, and at least one outside surface, said ball
cap blocking and stretching system comprising:a) at least one steamer
structured and arranged to steam such at least one crown, said at least
one steamer comprisingi) at least one crown-contourer structured and
arranged to contour such at least one crown adjacent such at least one
inside surface of such at least one crown,ii) at least one steam
generator structured and arranged to generate steam,iii) wherein said at
least one steam generator is located substantially within said at least
one crown-contourer,iv) wherein said at least one crown contourer
comprises at least one aperture structured and arranged to emit steam
from said at least one steam generator through said at least one
aperture;b) at least one stretcher structured and arranged to stretch
such at least one crown, said at least one stretcher comprisingi) at
least one front-contourer structured and arranged to contour such at
least one front of such at least one crown adjacent to such at least one
inside surface of such at least one crown and adjacent to such at least
one brim,ii) at least one mover structured and arranged to move said at
least one front-contourer relative to said at least one crown-contourer,
andiii) at least one stretcher fixator structured and arranged to
temporarily fix the relative position of said at least one
front-contourer and said at least one crown-contourer when said at least
one mover is moved; andc) at least one brim positioner structured and
arranged to position such at least one brim relative to at least one
front of such at least one crown, wherein said at least one brim
positioner is attached to said at least one front-contourer.
2) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 2
wherein said at least one steamer comprises at least one water storage
tank structured and arranged to store at least one amount of water.
3) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 2a)
wherein said at least one steam generator comprises at least one heat
generator structured and arranged to generate heat; andb) wherein said at
least one heat generator comprises at least one electrical heating
element.
4) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 3
further comprising at least one steam controller structured and arranged
to control steam generation by said at least one steam generator.
5) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 4
wherein said at least one steam controller comprisesa) at least one water
pump structured and arranged to pump water from said at least one water
storage tank to said at least one heat generator; andb) at least one
water valve structured and arranged to release water from said at least
one water storage tank to said at least one heat generator.
6) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 5
wherein said at least one steam aperture comprises a plurality of steam
apertures through said at least one crown-contourer, distributed about
said at least one crown-contourer, and placed adjacent such at least one
inside surface of such at least one ball cap.
7) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 6
wherein said at least one front-contourer comprises a plurality of steam
apertures through said at least one front-contourer.
8) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 1
further comprising at least one size indicator structured and arranged to
indicate to a user at least one user-selectable stretchable size of at
least one ball cap when at least one ball cap is placed on said ball cap
blocking and stretching system, wherein such user-selectable stretchable
sizes are based on the relative positions of said at least one
crown-contourer and said at least one front-contourer.
9) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 8
further comprising at least one support base structured and arranged to
support at least said at least one steamer, said at least one stretcher,
and said at least one brim positioner above at least one surface.
10) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 1
further comprising at least one handle structured and arranged to assist
portably handling said ball cap blocking and stretching system.
11) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 1
further comprising at least one hot air blower structured and arranged to
blow hot air to at least one ball cap when at least one ball cap is
placed on said at least one crown contourer.
12) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 11
wherein said at least one hot air blower comprisesa) at least one heating
element structured and arranged to generate heat;b) at least one fan to
blow such generated heat as hot air;c) at least one port structured and
arranged to pass hot air from said at least hot air blower to at least
one ball cap when such at least one ball cap is placed on such at least
one crown contourer.
13) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 12
wherein said at least one hot air blower is located substantially within
said at least one crown contourer.
14) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 1
wherein said at least one mover comprises at least one screw-drive.
15) The ball cap blocking and stretching system according to claim 1
wherein said at least one mover comprises at least one ratchet-drive.
16) A ball cap blocking and stretching kit, relating to blocking at least
one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at least one crown and at
least one brim, such at least one crown having at least one front, at
least one inside surface, and at least one outside surface, said ball cap
blocking and stretching kit comprising:a) at least one blocker structured
and arranged to block at least one ball cap wherein said at least one
blocker comprisesi) at least one steamer structured and arranged to steam
such at least one crown, said at least one steamer comprising(1) at least
one crown-contourer structured and arranged to contour such at least one
crown adjacent such at least one inside surface of such at least one
crown, and(2) at least one steam generator structured and arranged to
generate steam,(3) wherein said at least one steam generator is located
substantially within said at least one crown-contourer,(4) wherein said
at least one crown contourer comprises at least one aperture structured
and arranged to emit steam from said at least one steam generator through
said at least one aperture;ii) at least one stretcher structured and
arranged to stretch such at least one crown, said at least one stretcher
comprising(1) at least one front-contourer structured and arranged to
contour such at least one front of such at least one crown adjacent to
such at least one inside surface of such at least one crown and adjacent
to such at least one brim,(2) at least one mover structured and arranged
to move said at least one front-contourer relative to said at least one
crown-contourer, and(3) at least one stretcher fixator structured and
arranged to temporarily fix the relative position of said at least one
front-contourer and said at least one crown-contourer when said at least
one mover is moved; andiii) at least one brim positioner structured and
arranged to position such at least one brim relative to at least one
front of such at least one crown, wherein said at least one brim
positioner is attached to said at least one front-contourer;b) at least
one packaging structured and arranged to package said at least one
blocker; andc) at least one instruction structured and arranged to
instruct at least one user in the use of said at least one blocker.
17) The ball cap blocking and stretching kit according to claim 16 further
comprising at least one second front-contourer interchangeable with said
at least one front-contourer.
18) The ball cap blocking and stretching kit according to claim 16 wherein
said at least one front-contourer comprises at least one front steam
aperture through said at least one front-contourer.
19) The ball cap blocking and stretching kit according to claim 16 further
comprising at least one cleaning solution.
20) The ball cap blocking and stretching kit according to claim 16 further
comprising at least one stain remover solution.
21) The ball cap blocking and stretching kit according to claim 16 further
comprising at least one stiffening solution.
22) The ball cap blocking and stretching kit according to claim 16 further
comprising at least one ball cap washing basket.
23) A ball cap blocking and stretching method, relating to blocking at
least one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at least one crown
and at least one brim, such at least one crown having at least one front,
at least one inside surface, and at least one outside surface, said ball
cap blocking and stretching system comprising the steps of:a) acquiring
at least one ball cap blocker streamer stretcher, wherein such at least
one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher weighs less than about ten
pounds;b) adding water to at least one water reservoir of such at least
one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher;c) selecting at least one ball
cap;d) placing such at least one ball cap on such at least one ball cap
blocker steamer stretcher;e) steaming such at least one ball cap;f)
stretching such at least one ball cap;g) removing such at least one ball
cap from such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher; andh)
storing such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher.
24) The ball cap blocking and stretching method according to claim 23
further comprising the step of drying such at least one ball cap prior to
the step of removing such at least one ball cap from such at least one
ball cap blocker steamer stretcher.
25) The ball cap blocking and stretching method according to claim 23
further comprising the step of washing such at least one ball cap prior
to said step of placing such at least one ball cap on such at least one
ball cap blocker steamer stretcher.
26) The ball cap blocking and stretching method according to claim 23
further comprising the step of applying at least one ball cap treatment
solution to such at least one ball cap.
27) The ball cap blocking and stretching method according to claim 23
further comprising the step of restricting said step of steaming such at
least one ball cap to steaming such at least one crown of such at least
one ball cap.
28) The ball cap blocking and stretching method according to claim 23
further comprising the step of restricting said step of steaming such at
least one ball cap to steaming areas of such at least one ball cap that
do not comprise embroidery.
29) The ball cap blocking and stretching method according to claim 23
further comprising the step of restricting said step of steaming such at
least one ball cap to steaming areas of such at least one ball cap that
do not comprise decorative printing.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001]The present application is related to and claims priority from prior
provisional application Ser. No. 60/822,110, filed Aug. 11, 2006,
entitled "BALL CAP STRETCHING AND BLOCKING SYSTEMS", and is related to
and claims priority from prior provisional application 60/925,311, filed
Apr. 18, 2007, entitled "BALL CAP STRETCHING AND BLOCKING SYSTEMS", the
contents of which are incorporated herein by this reference and are not
admitted to be prior art with respect to the present invention by the
mention in this cross-reference section.
BACKGROUND
[0002]The present invention relates to ball cap stretching and blocking
systems. Blocking, as defined herein, refers to the process of holding a
hat in a shape to impart a definite shape to a hat. More particularly,
the present invention relates to a ball cap blocker and stretcher that
provides simultaneous ball cap stretching and steaming. The stretching
and steaming functions assist in removing undesired creases in the
material of ball caps. Even more particularly, the present invention
relates to a ball cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that is portable
for home use. Also, the present invention relates to a ball cap blocker
and stretcher that optionally avoids steaming the decorated front portion
of the ball cap, typically displaying, for example, a sports team logo.
Even more particularly, the present invention also relates to a ball cap
blocker and stretcher and steamer that additionally provides heated air
drying of the ball cap.
[0003]Modern ball caps have risen to the status of a fashion statement.
Thus, it is becoming increasingly important to keep ball caps looking
pristine, crisp, and fresh (by cap wearers and retailers). Also, modern
ball caps have become collector's items. Further, the licensing of
trademarks for placement on ball caps is ever present. The most widely
recognized name in the licensed ball cap arena is New Era, the largest
sports-licensed headwear company in the U.S. and the official ball cap
licensee of MLB. A New Era cap, typically a fitted cap, has a very
distinctive look comprising a flat bill, a squared front crown, and a
holographic sticker validating the authenticity of the cap placed on the
cap's visor. Ball caps bearing a licensed logo generally range in price
from $29 up to $300 for collector versions, with $2,000 premium caps,
such as the Zerino "Elita" and "Dominiani", emerging in the market for
the first time. Modem ball caps range from a simple ball cap with a
functional use to investments.
[0004]Typical materials in a ball cap respond to heating, steaming, and
stretching. Ball caps, especially those comprising wool and buckram, can
warp when wet. However heating and steaming can restore the shape of a
ball cap. The fibers in wool typically respond quickly to steaming.
Buckram, a rigid, malleable material which is typically contained within
the front two panels of a ball cap may be shaped by heating or steaming.
The buckram weave enables an embroidered logo on the cap's crown to hold
its shape. A cap's sweatband typically comprises cotton and because of
its position close to the head, it dirties quickly necessitating frequent
washing.
[0005]No system exists that provides simultaneous ball cap stretching and
steaming. Further, no system exists that provides a ball cap blocker and
stretcher and steamer that is portable for home use. Also, no system
exists that optionally avoids steaming the decorated front portion of the
ball cap. Even more particularly, no system exists that provides a ball
cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that provides heated air drying of
the ball cap.
[0006]Therefore, a need exists for a system that provides simultaneous
ball cap stretching and steaming. Further, a need exists for a system
that provides a ball cap blocker and stretcher and steamer that is
portable for home use. Also, a need exists for a system that optionally
avoids steaming the decorated front portion of the ball cap. Even more
particularly, a need exists for a system that provides a ball cap blocker
and stretcher and steamer that provides heated air drying of the ball
cap.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
[0007]A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
a ball cap stretching and blocking systems.
[0008]A further object and feature of the present invention is to provide
simultaneous ball cap stretching and steaming. It is a further object and
feature of the present invention to provide such a system that is
portable for home use. It is yet another object and feature of the
present invention to provide such a system that protects the decorated
front portion of a baseball cap from steam. It is a further object and
feature of the present invention to provide such a system that provides
heated air-drying of the ball cap.
[0009]A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Other
objects and features of this invention will become apparent with
reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010]In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a ball cap blocking and stretching system, relating to blocking
at least one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at least one
crown and at least one brim, such at least one crown having at least one
front, at least one inside surface, and at least one outside surface,
such ball cap blocking and stretching system comprising: at least one
steamer structured and arranged to steam such at least one crown, such at
least one steamer comprising at least one crown-contourer structured and
arranged to contour such at least one crown adjacent such at least one
inside surface of such at least one crown, at least one steam generator
structured and arranged to generate steam, wherein such at least one
steam generator is located substantially within such at least one
crown-contourer, wherein such at least one crown contourer comprises at
least one aperture structured and arranged to emit steam from such at
least one steam generator through such at least one aperture; at least
one stretcher structured and arranged to stretch such at least one crown,
such at least one stretcher comprising at least one front-contourer
structured and arranged to contour such at least one front of such at
least one crown adjacent to such at least one inside surface of such at
least one crown and adjacent to such at least one brim, at least one
mover structured and arranged to move such at least one front-contourer
relative to such at least one crown-contourer, and at least one stretcher
fixator structured and arranged to temporarily fix the relative position
of such at least one front-contourer and such at least one
crown-contourer when such at least one mover is moved; and at least one
brim positioner structured and arranged to position such at least one
brim relative to at least one front of such at least one crown, wherein
such at least one brim positioner is attached to such at least one
front-contourer. Moreover, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching system wherein such at least one steamer comprises at least
one water storage tank structured and arranged to store at least one
amount of water. Additionally, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching system wherein such at least one steam generator comprises at
least one heat generator structured and arranged to generate heat; and
wherein such at least one heat generator comprises at least one
electrical heating element. Also, it provides such a ball cap blocking
and stretching system further comprising at least one steam controller
structured and arranged to control steam generation by such at least one
steam generator. In addition, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching system wherein such at least one steam controller comprises at
least one water pump structured and arranged to pump water from such at
least one water storage tank to such at least one heat generator; and at
least one water valve structured and arranged to release water from such
at least one water storage tank to such at least one heat generator. And,
it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system wherein such
at least one steam aperture comprises a plurality of steam apertures
through such at least one crown-contourer, distributed about such at
least one crown-contourer, and placed adjacent such at least one inside
surface of such at least one ball cap. Further, it provides such a ball
cap blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one
front-contourer comprises a plurality of steam apertures through such at
least one front-contourer. Even further, it provides such a ball cap
blocking and stretching system further comprising at least one size
indicator structured and arranged to indicate to a user at least one
user-selectable stretchable size of at least one ball cap when at least
one ball cap is placed on such ball cap blocking and stretching system,
wherein such user-selectable stretchable sizes are based on the relative
positions of such at least one crown-contourer and such at least one
front-contourer. Moreover, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching system further comprising at least one support base structured
and arranged to support at least such at least one steamer, such at least
one stretcher, and such at least one brim positioner above at least one
surface. Additionally, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching system further comprising at least one handle structured and
arranged to assist portably handling such ball cap blocking and
stretching system. Also, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching system according to claim 1 further comprising at least one
hot air blower structured and arranged to blow hot air to at least one
ball cap when at least one ball cap is placed on such at least one crown
contourer. In addition, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching system wherein such at least one hot air blower comprises at
least one heating element structured and arranged to generate heat; at
least one fan to blow such generated heat as hot air; at least one port
structured and arranged to pass hot air from such at least hot air blower
to at least one ball cap when such at least one ball cap is placed on
such at least one crown contourer. And, it provides such a ball cap
blocking and stretching system wherein such at least one hot air blower
is located substantially within such at least one crown contourer.
Further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system
wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one screw-drive. Even
further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching system
wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one ratchet-drive.
[0011]In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a ball cap blocking and stretching kit, relating to
blocking at least one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at
least one crown and at least one brim, such at least one crown having at
least one front, at least one inside surface, and at least one outside
surface, such ball cap blocking and stretching kit comprising: at least
one blocker structured and arranged to block at least one ball cap
wherein such at least one blocker comprises at least one steamer
structured and arranged to steam such at least one crown, such at least
one steamer comprising at least one crown-contourer structured and
arranged to contour such at least one crown adjacent such at least one
inside surface of such at least one crown, and at least one steam
generator structured and arranged to generate steam, wherein such at
least one steam generator is located substantially within such at least
one crown-contourer, wherein such at least one crown contourer comprises
at least one aperture structured and arranged to emit steam from such at
least one steam generator through such at least one aperture; at least
one stretcher structured and arranged to stretch such at least one crown,
such at least one stretcher comprising at least one front-contourer
structured and arranged to contour such at least one front of such at
least one crown adjacent to such at least one inside surface of such at
least one crown and adjacent to such at least one brim, at least one
mover structured and arranged to move such at least one front-contourer
relative to such at least one crown-contourer, and at least one stretcher
fixator structured and arranged to temporarily fix the relative position
of such at least one front-contourer and such at least one
crown-contourer when such at least one mover is moved; and at least one
brim positioner structured and arranged to position such at least one
brim relative to at least one front of such at least one crown, wherein
such at least one brim positioner is attached to such at least one
front-contourer; at least one packaging structured and arranged to
package such at least one blocker; and at least one instruction
structured and arranged to instruct at least one user in the use of such
at least one blocker. Moreover, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching kit further comprising at least one second front-contourer
interchangeable with such at least one front-contourer. Additionally, it
provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching kit wherein such at
least one front-contourer comprises at least one front steam aperture
through such at least one front-contourer. Also, it provides such a ball
cap blocking and stretching kit further comprising at least one cleaning
solution. In addition, it provides such a ball cap blocking and
stretching kit further comprising at least one stain remover solution.
And, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching kit further
comprising at least one stiffening solution. Further, it provides such a
ball cap blocking and stretching kit further comprising at least one ball
cap washing basket.
[0012]In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a ball cap blocking and stretching method, relating to
blocking at least one ball cap, such at least one ball cap having at
least one crown and at least one brim, such at least one crown having at
least one front, at least one inside surface, and at least one outside
surface, such ball cap blocking and stretching system comprising the
steps of: acquiring at least one ball cap blocker streamer stretcher,
wherein such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher weighs less
than about ten pounds; adding water to at least one water reservoir of
such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher; selecting at least
one ball cap; placing such at least one ball cap on such at least one
ball cap blocker steamer stretcher; steaming such at least one ball cap;
stretching such at least one ball cap; removing such at least one ball
cap from such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher; and
storing such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher. Even
further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method
further comprising the step of drying such at least one ball cap prior to
the step of removing such at least one ball cap from such at least one
ball cap blocker steamer stretcher. Even further, it provides such a ball
cap blocking and stretching method further comprising the step of washing
such at least one ball cap prior to such step of placing such at least
one ball cap on such at least one ball cap blocker steamer stretcher.
Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method
further comprising the step of applying at least one ball cap treatment
solution to such at least one ball cap. Even further, it provides such a
ball cap blocking and stretching method further comprising the step of
restricting such step of steaming such at least one ball cap to steaming
such at least one crown of such at least one ball cap. Even further, it
provides such a ball cap blocking and stretching method further
comprising the step of restricting such step of steaming such at least
one ball cap to steaming areas of such at least one ball cap that do not
comprise embroidery. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking
and stretching method further comprising the step of restricting such
step of steaming such at least one ball cap to steaming areas of such at
least one ball cap that do not comprise decorative printing.
[0013]In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a ball cap blocking system, relating to blocking at
least one ball cap having at least one inside surface, at least one
outside surface, at least one crown, and at least one brim, comprising;
steamer means for steaming such at least one crown, comprising
crown-contour means for contouring such at least one crown adjacent such
at least one inside surface, steam generator means for generating steam,
wherein such steam generator means is located substantially within such
crown-contour means, steam aperture means for providing steam apertures
through such crown-contour means, and at least one steam controller means
for controlling steam generation; stretcher means for stretching such at
least one crown, comprising front-contour means for contouring at least
one front of such at least one crown adjacent such at least one inside
surface and adjacent such at least one brim, at least one mover means for
moving such front-contour means relative to such crown-contour means, and
stretcher fixation means for temporarily fixing the relative position of
such front-contour means and such crown-contour means; at least one brim
positioner means for positioning such at least one brim relative to such
at least one front of such at least one crown, wherein such at least one
brim positioner means is attached to such front contour means; at least
one size indicator means for indicating the size of such at least one
ball cap based on the relative positions of such crown-contour means and
such front-contour means; and at least one housing means for housing such
steamer means, such stretcher means, such at least one brim positioner
means, and such at least one size indicator means.
[0014]Moreover, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, further
comprising at least one handle means for handling such at least one
housing means. Additionally, it provides such a ball cap blocking system,
wherein such steamer means comprises heat generator means for generating
heat. Also, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such
heat generator means comprises at least one electric heating element. In
addition, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such
steamer means comprises water storage means for storing water prior to
heating such water into steam. And, it provides such a ball cap blocking
system, wherein such at least one steam controller means comprises water
pump means for pumping water from such water storage means to such heat
generator means. Further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system,
wherein such at least one steam controller means comprises water valve
means for releasing water from such water storage means to such heat
generator means.
[0015]Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein
such at least one mover means comprises stretcher fixation releaser means
for releasing such stretcher fixation means whereby such front-contour
means is again able to move relative to such crown-contour means. Even
further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at
least one mover means comprises grip means for gripping such
front-contour means and such at least one housing means simultaneously.
Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such
at least one housing means comprises steam aperture means for providing
steam apertures through such at least one housing means. Even further, it
provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such at least one
housing means, such stretcher means, such at least one brim positioner
means, and such at least one size indicator means together weigh less
than about ten pounds. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking
system, wherein at least one of such at least one housing means, such
stretcher means, such at least one brim positioner means, and such at
least one size indicator means comprises plastic.
[0016]Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein
such steam aperture means comprises a plurality of steam apertures
through such crown-contour means, distributed about such crown-contour
means, and adjacent such inside surface of such ball cap. Even further,
it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means
is adjustable between a circumference of not less than fifteen inches and
a circumference of not more than thirty inches. Even further, it provides
such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is
adjustable between a circumference of not less than nineteen inches and a
circumference of not more than twenty-seven inches. Even further, it
provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is
adjustable between a circumference of not less than nineteen inches and a
circumference of not more than twenty-three inches. Even further, it
provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is
adjustable between a circumference of not less than twenty-two inches and
a circumference of not more than twenty-six inches. Even further, it
provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such stretcher means is
adjustable between a circumference of not less than twenty-one inches and
a circumference of not more than twenty-four inches.
[0017]Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein
such front-contour means comprises front steam aperture means for
providing steam apertures through such front-contour means. Even further,
it provides such a ball cap blocking system, wherein such front-contour
means is structured and arranged to conform to the contour of the front
of at least one low-profile ball cap. Even further, it provides such a
ball cap blocking system, wherein such front-contour means is structured
and arranged to conform to the contour of the front of at least one
high-profile ball cap. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking
system, wherein such at least one mover means comprises at least one
screw-drive. Even further, it provides such a ball cap blocking system,
wherein such at least one mover means comprises at least one
ratchet-drive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018]FIG. 1 shows a top view illustrating a ball cap blocker and
stretcher according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0019]FIG. 2 shows a side view illustrating the ball cap blocker and
stretcher according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0020]FIG. 3 shows a front view illustrating the ball cap blocker and
stretcher according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0021]FIG. 4 shows a back view illustrating the ball cap blocker and
stretcher according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0022]FIG. 5A shows a side view illustrating the ball cap blocker and
stretcher according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, with a ball
cap in place.
[0023]FIG. 5B shows a side view illustrating the ball cap blocker and
stretcher according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, stretching the
ball cap.
[0024]FIG. 5C shows a side view illustrating the ball cap blocker and
stretcher according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, steaming the
ball cap.
[0025]FIG. 6 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating the ball cap
blocker and stretcher according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0026]FIG. 7 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating a ball cap
blocker and stretcher according to another preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
[0027]FIG. 8A shows a side view illustrating a modified front-contour
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0028]FIG. 8B shows a side view illustrating another modified
front-contour according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0029]FIG. 8C shows a side view illustrating yet another modified
front-contour according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0030]FIG. 9 shows a side view illustrating a kit according to the
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0031]FIG. 10 shows a block diagram illustrating a method according to the
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0032]FIG. 11 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating a ball cap
blocker and stretcher according to yet another preferred embodiment of
the present invention.
[0033]FIG. 12 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating a ball cap
blocker and stretcher according to an additional preferred embodiment of
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE
INVENTION
[0034]FIG. 1 shows a top view illustrating ball cap blocker and stretcher
101 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0035]Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher system 100 is adapted to
stretch and/or steam ball caps 500, as shown in FIG. 5A. Preferably, ball
cap 500 comprises crown 505, brim 510, inside surface 515, and outside
surface 520, as shown in FIG. 5A. Preferably, brim 510 encircles less
than half of crown 505, as shown. Ball caps 500 are typically sold as
"baseball caps", "ball caps", "trucker caps", "athletic caps", "mesh
caps", "casual caps", "runner's caps", "fitted caps", etc.
[0036]Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher system 100 comprises ball
cap blocker and stretcher 101, as shown. Preferably, ball cap blocker and
stretcher 101 comprises steamer 105, stretcher 140, brim positioner 160,
size indicator 170, and housing 180, as shown. Preferably, the housing of
the systems described herein acts as a support base for at least the
steamer, stretcher, and brim positioner, as shown. Preferably, housing
180 may be placed on a user-desired surface, such as a counter or desk.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user
preference, etc., other ball cap blocker and stretcher components, such
as a dryer, a clamp to shape the brim, etc., may suffice.
[0037]Preferably, steamer 105 comprises crown-contourer 110, steam
generator 120, steam aperture 125, and steam controller 130, as shown.
Preferably, crown-contourer 110 is adapted to approximately match the
contour of crown 505 adjacent inside surface 515, as shown. Preferably,
crown-contourer 110 is approximately shaped like the inside of ball cap
500, as shown. More preferably, crown-contourer 110 is approximately
hemispherical, as shown. Preferably, steam generator 120 generates steam,
as shown in FIG. 5C. Preferably, steam generator 120 is located
substantially within crown-contourer 110, as shown in FIG. 6. Preferably,
steam flows from steam generator 120 through steam apertures 125 to the
exterior of crown-contourer 110. Preferably, a plurality of steam
apertures 125 are distributed about crown-contourer 110, as shown, placed
to release steam adjacent such inside surface 515 of ball cap 500.
Preferably, a plurality of steam apertures 125 (at least embodying herein
at least one steam aperture through such at least one crown-contourer)
are approximately evenly distributed in a pattern about crown-contourer
110 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one steam aperture
comprises a plurality of steam apertures through such at least one
crown-contourer, distributed about such at least one crown-contourer, and
placed to be adjacent such inside surface of such ball cap), as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user
preference, etc., other steam-aperture arrangements, such as the
crown-contourer being uniformly porous, the crown-contour comprising
strong mesh material, other patterns of steam apertures, steam being
generated outside of the crown-contour, etc., may suffice.
[0038]Preferably, steam controller 130 permits the user to control the
generation of steam by steam generator 120, as shown in FIG. 5C.
Preferably, steam controller 130 (at least embodying herein at least one
steam controller structured and arranged to control steam generation by
such at least one steam generator) comprises steam button 132, as shown.
Preferably, steam generator 120 (at least embodying herein at least one
steam generator structured and arranged to generate steam, wherein such
at least one steam generator is located substantially within such at
least one crown-contourer) comprises at least one heat generator 123,
located within housing 180 and/or within crown-contourer 110, as shown in
FIG. 6. Preferably, heat generator 123 (at least embodying herein wherein
such at least one steam generator comprises at least one heat generator
structured and arranged to generate heat) is adapted to generate heat for
making steam. Preferably, heat generator 123 (at least embodying herein
wherein such at least one heat generator comprises at least one
electrical heating element) comprises at least one electrical heating
element, as shown in FIG. 6. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
advances in technology, user preference, etc., other steam controllers,
such as automatic timers, manual timers, automatic shutoff based on water
level, etc., may suffice.
[0039]Preferably, stretcher 140 (at least embodying herein at least one
stretcher fixator structured and arranged to temporarily fix the relative
position of such at least one front-contourer and such at least one
crown-contourer) comprises front-contourer 145, mover 150, and stretcher
fixator 155, as shown. Preferably, front-contourer 145 is adapted to
approximately match the contour of ball cap 500 adjacent the front
portion of inside surface 515 and preferably adjacent brim 510, as shown
in FIG. 5A. Preferably, mover 150 is adapted to move front-contourer 145
relative to crown-contourer 110, as shown in FIG. 5B. Preferably, mover
150 (at least embodying herein at least one mover structured and arranged
to move such at least one front-contourer relative to such at least one
crown-contourer) is adapted to move front-contourer 145 horizontally
relative to crown-contourer 110, as shown. Preferably, front-contourer
145 is adapted to conform to the contour of the front of a low-profile
ball cap 500 (such as, for example, a baseball league ball cap), as shown
in FIG. 5A. Preferably, stretching occurs between front-contourer 145 and
crown-contourer 110, as shown. Preferably, front-contourer 145 is
approximately shaped like the front of crown 505 and the brim 510 of ball
cap 500, as shown, while crown-contourer 110 is approximately shaped like
the back of crown 505 of ball cap 500, as shown. Therefore, stretcher 140
is preferably radially asymmetrical, as shown. Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues
as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other stretcher
components, such as a motor, a non-slip surface and/or clips to hold the
ball cap in place, vertical movement of the crown-contourer relative to
the housing, vertical movement of the front-contourer relative to the
housing, etc., may suffice.
[0040]Preferably, front-contourer 145 does not comprise steam apertures
125, as shown. Preferably, front-contourer 145 shields the front of crown
505 and brim 510 from steam, as shown in FIG. 5C. The front of crown 505
is preferably decorated with decorations 148, as shown in FIG. 5A.
Preferably, decorations 148 comprise at least one of embroidery,
printing, appliqu6s, etc. Depending on their materials and construction,
many decorations 148 may be damaged by steam. Further, decorations 148
may stretch at different rates than the surrounding wet fabric, resulting
in damage, puckers, or distortion of decorations 148 and/or crown 505.
Preferably, preventing steam from wetting the front of crown 505 and
decorations 148 limits the amount of stretching that occurs adjacent
decorations 148. Preferably, steam hitting the back of front-contourer
145 escapes through crown 505. Preferably, the heat and tension on crown
505 adjacent front-contourer 145 results in wrinkles being ironed out.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user
preference, etc., other arrangements, such as a front-contour adapted to
limit heat transfer, a front-contour with its own heater, etc., may
suffice.
[0041]Preferably, mover 150 comprises stretcher fixator 155, as shown.
Preferably, stretcher fixator 155 is adapted to temporarily lock
front-contourer 145 in place relative to crown-contourer 110, as shown.
Preferably, stretcher fixator 155 (at least embodying herein wherein such
at least one mover comprises at least one stretcher fixator releaser
structured and arranged to release such stretcher fixator whereby such at
least one front-contourer is again able to move relative to such at least
one crown-contourer) comprises a ratchet system, as further shown and
described in FIG. 6. Preferably, stretcher fixator 155 comprises a screw,
as further shown and described in FIG. 7. Preferably, mover 150 comprises
stretcher fixator releaser 157, as shown. Preferably, stretcher fixator
releaser 157 is adapted to release said stretcher fixator 155 whereby
front-contourer 145 is again able to move relative to crown-contourer
110.
[0042]Preferably, brim positioner 160 is adapted to position brim 510
relative to the front of crown 505, as shown in FIG. 5A. Preferably, brim
positioner 160 is fixedly attached to front-contourer 145 (at least
embodying herein at least one front-contourer structured and arranged to
contour at least one front of such at least one crown adjacent such at
least one inside surface and adjacent such at least one brim), as shown.
Preferably, brim positioner 160 is adapted to support brim 510
approximately horizontally relative to crown 505, as shown. Preferably,
brim positioner 160 occupies less than one-half of the circumference of
crown-contourer 110 (at least embodying herein comprising at least one
crown-contourer structured and arranged to contour such at least one
crown adjacent such at least one inside surface), as shown, to match the
design of most ball caps 500. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
advances in technology, user preference, etc., other brim positioners,
such as adjustable brim positioners, brim positioners fixed to the
housing, brim positioners molded into the housing, brim positioners with
adjustable vertical curvature, brim positioners with an adjustable
horizontal tilt, etc., may suffice.
[0043]Preferably, size indicator 170 is adapted to indicate the size of
ball cap 500 based on the relative positions of crown-contourer 110 and
front-contourer 145, as shown. Preferably, size indicator comprises ball
cap size indicators in at least the following ball cap dimensions: 6, 6
1/8, 6 1/4, 6 3/8, 6 1/2, 6 5/8, 6 3/4, and 6 7/8, 7, 7 1/8, 7 1/4, 7
3/8, 7 1/2, 7 5/8, 7 3/4, 7 7/8, 8, 8 1/8, 8 1/4, 8 3/8, etc. Preferably,
moving front-contourer 145 relative to crown-contourer 110 changes the
length of the circumference around front-contourer 145 and
crown-contourer 110, measured adjacent brim positioner 160, which
circumference is preferably correlated to standard hat sizes. Preferably,
markings 172 indicate the size of ball cap 500, as shown. Preferably,
stretcher 140 is adjustable between a circumference of not less than
fifteen inches and a circumference of not more than thirty inches. More
preferably, stretcher 140 is adjustable between a circumference of not
less than nineteen inches and a circumference of not more than
twenty-seven inches. Preferably, stretcher 140 is adjustable between a
circumference of not less than nineteen inches and a circumference of not
more than twenty-three inches. Preferably, stretcher 140 is adjustable
between a circumference of not less than twenty-two inches and a
circumference of not more than twenty-six inches. Most preferably,
stretcher 140 is adjustable between a circumference of not less than
twenty-one inches and a circumference of not more than twenty-four
inches. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user
preference, etc., other circumferences, other measurement methods, etc.,
may suffice.
[0044]Preferably, housing 180 is adapted to house steamer 105 (at least
embodying herein at least one steamer structured and arranged to steam
such at least one crown), stretcher 140 (at least embodying herein at
least one stretcher structured and arranged to stretch such at least one
crown), brim positioner 160 (at least embodying herein at least one brim
positioner structured and arranged to position such at least one brim
relative to such at least one front of such at least one crown, wherein
such at least one brim positioner is attached to such at least one
front-contourer), and size indicator 170 (at least embodying herein at
least one size indicator structured and arranged to indicate the size of
such at least one ball cap based on the relative positions of such at
least one crown-contourer and such at least one front-contourer), as
shown. Preferably, mover 150 comprises at least one grip 152 (at least
embodying herein wherein such at least one mover comprises at least one
grip structured and arranged to assist gripping such at least one
front-contourer and such at least one housing simultaneously) adapted to
assist gripping front-contourer 145 and housing 180 simultaneously so
that front-contourer 145 can be easily pulled forward along track 182 in
housing 180 in order to stretch ball cap 500, as shown in FIG. 5B.
[0045]Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprises handle 190,
as shown. Preferably, handle 190 (at least embodying herein at least one
handle structured and arranged to handle such at least one housing) is
molded into housing 180, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
advances in technology, user preference, etc., other handles, such as
external handles, removable handles, multiple handles, no handle, handles
positioned near a crown-contourer, etc., may suffice.
[0046]Preferably, housing 180 comprises at least one steam aperture 185
through housing 180, as shown. Preferably, steam flows from steam
generator 120 through steam apertures 185 to the exterior of housing 180
(at least embodying herein at least one housing structured and arranged
to house such at least one steamer, such at least one stretcher, such at
least one brim positioner, and such at least one size indicator).
Preferably, steam apertures 185 (at least embodying herein wherein such
at least one housing comprises at least one steam aperture through such
at least one housing) are located in housing 180 adjacent crown-contourer
110, as shown. Preferably, steam apertures 185 focus additional steam
onto the lower edge of crown 505, which typically comprises multiple
layers of fabric or other reinforcement. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues
as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other steam aperture
positions, such as under brim positioner 160, etc., may suffice.
[0047]Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 weighs less than
about ten pounds (with an empty water reservoir). Preferably, ball cap
blocker and stretcher 101 (at least embodying herein wherein such at
least one housing, such at least one stretcher, such at least one brim
positioner, and such at least one size indicator together weigh less than
about ten pounds) is portable due to the low weight. Preferably, in order
to reduce weight, at least one of housing 180, stretcher 140, brim
positioner 160, and size indicator 170 comprises plastic (at least
embodying herein wherein at least one of such at least one housing, such
at least one stretcher, such at least one brim positioner, and such at
least one size indicator comprises plastic). Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues
as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other weights portable
by a single user, such as under fifteen pounds, under five pounds, etc.,
may suffice.
[0048]FIG. 2 shows a side view illustrating ball cap blocker and stretcher
101 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. Preferably, pulling
ratchet-arm 620 forward (towards handle 190, as shown) pulls
front-contourer 145 forward with sufficient force to stretch ball cap
500. Ratchet-arm 620 is further shown and described in FIG. 6.
[0049]Preferably, crown-contourer 110 comprises steam distribution
channels 250. Preferably, steam distribution channels 250 help to
distribute steam evenly to crown 505. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
advances in technology, user preference, etc., other steam distribution
methods, such as crown-contourer comprising mesh, crown-contourer
comprising evenly perforated material, etc., may suffice.
[0050]FIG. 3 shows a front view illustrating ball cap blocker and
stretcher 101 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0051]FIG. 4 shows a back view illustrating ball cap blocker and stretcher
101 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0052]FIG. 5A shows a side view illustrating ball cap blocker and
stretcher 101 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, with ball
cap 500 in place.
[0053]FIG. 5B shows a side view illustrating ball cap blocker and
stretcher 101 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, stretching
ball cap 500. Preferably, the user uses grip 152 to pull front-contourer
145 towards handle 190 enough to measure ball cap 500 using size
indicator 170 as a guide, as shown. Preferably, the user uses grip 152 to
pull front-contourer 145 forward enough to stretch ball cap 500, as
shown. Preferably, if more than slight stretching is required, the user
pulls ratchet-arm 620 forward to pull front-contourer 145 forward with
sufficient force to stretch ball cap 500.
[0054]FIG. 5C shows a side view illustrating ball cap blocker and
stretcher 101 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, steaming
ball cap 500. Preferably, ball cap 500 is steamed until wrinkles are
substantially steamed out. Preferably, ball cap 500 is steamed until
stiffener solution 950 (as shown in FIG. 9) has set. Preferably, ball cap
500 is steamed for less than one minute. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues
as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements,
such as the crown contourer being heated without steam, the crown
contourer comprising a forced-air dryer, etc., may suffice.
[0055]FIG. 6 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating ball cap
blocker and stretcher 101 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG.
1.
[0056]Preferably, mover 150 comprises at least one ratchet-drive 600, as
shown. Preferably, ratchet-drive 600 (at least embodying herein wherein
such at least one mover comprises at least one ratchet-drive) comprises
gear rack 605 on front-contourer 145, ratchet gear 610, ratchet hold-back
615, ratchet arm 620, and ratchet release 625, as shown. Preferably,
ratchet gear 610 pushes gear rack 605 forward in track 182 in order to
stretch ball cap 500. Preferably, ratchet hold-back 615 holds ratchet
gear 610 to prevent ratchet gear 610 from turning clockwise (which would
permit front contourer 145 to move backwards toward crown-contourer 110).
Preferably, ratchet release 625 releases ratchet hold-back 615 from
ratchet gear 610, permitting front contourer 145 to move backwards toward
crown-contourer 110. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other ratchet systems may suffice.
[0057]Preferably, heat generator 123 comprises electrical heating element
650, as shown. Preferably, electrical heating element 650 is electrically
connected to electrical plug 655, as shown. Preferably, electrical plug
655 plugs in to a standard household electrical outlet. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering
such issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other power
sources, such as batteries, solar cells, etc., may suffice.
[0058]Preferably, steamer 105 comprises water storage tank 660, as shown,
adapted to store water prior to heating such water into steam.
Preferably, water tank 660 is located within crown-contour 110 above heat
generator 123, as shown. Preferably, steam controller 130 comprises pump
bladder 662, as shown. Preferably, pump bladder 662 comprises at least
one pump and/or valve adapted to release and/or pump water from water
tank 660 when activated, as shown. Preferably, water is gravity-fed from
water storage tank 660 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least
one steamer comprises at least one water storage tank structured and
arranged to store water prior to heating such water into steam) into heat
generator 123 when pump bladder 662 (at least embodying herein wherein
such at least one steam controller comprises at least one water pump
structured and arranged to pump water from such at least one water
storage tank to such at least one heat generator; and at least embodying
herein wherein such at least one steam controller comprises at least one
water valve structured and arranged to release water from such at least
one water storage tank to such at least one heat generator) is depressed
by activating steam controller 130 (preferably by pressing steam button
132), as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those
with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other water storage arrangements, such
as storing the water in the housing, powered water pumps, etc., may
suffice.
[0059]Preferably, water is added to water storage tank 660 through filling
port 668. Preferably, filling port 668 extends through crown-contourer
110, as shown. Preferably, filling port 668 is closed with cap 669, as
shown.
[0060]The above arrangement at least embodying herein at least one ball
cap blocker streamer stretcher.
[0061]FIG. 7 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating ball cap
blocker and stretcher 701 according to another preferred embodiment of
the present invention. Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101
comprises ball cap blocker and stretcher 701, as shown. Preferably, mover
150 comprises mover 750, as shown. Preferably, crown-contourer 110
comprises crown-contourer 710, as shown. Preferably, front-contourer 145
comprises front-contourer 745, as shown. Preferably, steamer 120
comprises steamer 720, as shown.
[0062]Preferably, mover 750 is adapted to move crown-contourer 710
relative to front-contourer 745, as shown. Preferably, mover 750 is
adapted to move crown-contourer 710 horizontally relative to
front-contourer 745, as shown. Preferably, mover 750 comprises at least
one screw-drive 755 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one
mover comprises at least one screw-drive), as shown.
[0063]Preferably, screw-drive 755 comprises screw 780, track 785, track
clip 786, and threaded axle 790, as shown. Preferably, threaded axle 790
runs along track 785 as screw 780 is turned. Preferably, screw 780 is
tight enough that screw 780 remains fixed in place after tightening until
the user turns it again.
[0064]Preferably, steam controller 130 comprises steam button 732, as
shown. Preferably, pressing steam button 732 triggers steam release from
crown-contourer 710. Under appropriate circumstances pressing steam
button 732 functions to momentarily supply power to the steam generator
in order to enhance safety and operational economy to reduce electrical
load associated with continuous operation of the heating element of the
steam generator.
[0065]FIG. 8A shows a side view illustrating modified front-contour 845
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. Preferably,
front-contourer 745 comprises front-contourer 845, as shown. Preferably,
front-contourer 845 comprises a plurality of steam apertures 846 through
front-contourer 845, as shown. Preferably, front-contourer 845 permits
steam to reach the front of ball cap 500. Preferably, front-contourer 845
(at least embodying herein wherein such at least one front-contourer
comprises a plurality of steam apertures through such at least one
front-contourer) is used with ball caps 500 that are either undecorated
or that have decorations 148 that are not harmed by steam.
[0066]FIG. 8B shows a side view illustrating another modified
front-contour 850 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
Preferably, front-contourer 745 comprises front-contourer 850, as shown.
Preferably, front-contourer 850 is structured and arranged to conform to
the contour of the front of a high-profile ball cap 500, such as, for
example, a "trucker cap", as shown.
[0067]FIG. 8C shows a side view illustrating yet another modified
front-contour 855 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
Preferably, front-contourer 745 comprises front-contourer 855, as shown.
Preferably, brim positioner 160 comprises brim positioner 860, as shown.
Preferably, front-contourer 855 comprises brim positioner 860, as shown.
Preferably, brim-positioner 860 is shaped to impart a selected curved
shape into brim 510.
[0068]Preferably, front-contourer 745, front-contourer 845,
front-contourer 850, front-contourer 855 are interchangeable by the user
in ball cap blocker and stretcher 101. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
advances in technology, user preference, etc., other front contourers,
such as heated front-contourers, no front-contourers, etc., may suffice.
[0069]FIG. 9 shows a side view illustrating kit 900 according to the
preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, ball cap
blocker and stretcher system 100 comprises kit 900, as shown. Preferably,
kit 900 permits users to purchase a kit comprising one or a plurality of
front-contourer 145 to use to block ball cap 500.
[0070]Preferably, kit 900 comprises ball cap blocker and stretcher 101
including at least one first front-contourer 145, packaging 910 (at least
embodying herein at least one packaging structured and arranged to
packaging such at least one blocker) adapted package said ball cap
blocker and stretcher 101 for sale; and instructions 920 (at least
embodying herein at least one instruction structured and arranged to
instruct at least one user in the use of such at least one blocker) to
instruct a user in the use of ball cap blocker and stretcher 101, as
shown.
[0071]Preferably, kit 900 (at least embodying herein a ball cap blocking
kit) comprises at least one second front-contourer 145 interchangeable
with said at least one first front-contourer 145 (at least embodying
herein at least one second front-contourer interchangeable with such at
least one front-contourer), as shown. Preferably, said at least one
second front-contourer 145 comprises front-contourer 845, as shown.
[0072]Preferably, kit 900 comprises cleaning solution 930, as shown.
Preferably, cleaning solution 930 comprises a cleaning solution adapted
to remove sweat and dirt from fabric, such as, for example, laundry
detergent. Preferably, kit 900 comprises stain remover solution 940, as
shown. Preferably, stain remover solution 940 comprises a stain remover
adapted to remove stains from fabric, such as, for example, dry-cleaning
solvent. Preferably, kit 900 comprises stiffening solution 950, as shown.
Preferably, stiffening solution 950 comprises a stiffening solution
adapted to stiffen the fabric of ball cap 500. Preferably, stiffening
solution 950 interacts with the steam generated by ball cap steamer 101
to stiffen ball cap 500. Preferably, stiffening solution 950 comprises
liquid starch solution. Such solutions (cleaning, stain remover,
stiffening) also referred to herein as a ball cap treatment solution.
[0073]Preferably, kit 900 comprises ball cap washing basket 960, as shown.
Preferably, ball cap washing basket 960 permits ball cap 500 to be
laundered in a washing machine or dishwasher without being crushed.
Preferably, ball cap 500 is laundered prior to steaming and/or stretching
with ball cap steamer 101. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
advances in technology, user preference, etc., other kit components, such
as a funnel, a cover, a surge protector, a ball cap, an adapter to change
the shape of the crown-contour, etc., may suffice.
[0074]FIG. 10 shows a block diagram illustrating method 1000 according to
the preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, ball cap
blocker and stretcher system 100 comprises method 1000, as shown.
Preferably, method 1000 comprises the steps of: acquiring (step 1010)
ball cap steamer 101, wherein ball cap steamer 101 weighs less than about
ten pounds; adding water (step 1020) to water tank 660 of ball cap
steamer 101; selecting (step 1030) at least one ball cap 500; placing
(step 1040) such ball cap 500 on such ball cap steamer 101; steaming
(step 1050) such ball cap 500; stretching (step 1060) such ball cap 500;
removing (step 1070) such ball cap 500 from such ball cap steamer 101;
and storing (step 1080) such ball cap steamer 101, as shown.
[0075]Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of washing (step 1090)
such ball cap 500 prior to placing (step 1040) such ball cap 500 on such
ball cap steamer 101, as shown.
[0076]Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of applying (step 2000)
at least one cleaning solution 930 to such ball cap 500, either prior to
steaming or during steaming, as shown. Preferably, method 1000 comprises
the step of applying (step 2010) at least one stain remover from stain
remover solution 940 to such ball cap 500, as shown. Preferably, method
1000 comprises the step of applying (step 2020) at least one stiffener
solution 950 to such ball cap 500, as shown.
[0077]Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step of restricting (step
2030) said step of steaming (step 1050) such ball cap 500 to steaming
crown 505 of ball cap 500, as shown. Preferably, method 1000 comprises
the step of restricting (step 2040) said step of steaming (step 1050)
such ball cap 500 to steaming areas of such ball cap 500 that do not
comprise embroidery, as shown. Preferably, method 1000 comprises the step
of restricting (step 2050) said step of steaming (step 1050) such ball
cap 500 to steaming areas of such ball cap 500 that do not comprise
decorative printing, as shown.
[0078]FIG. 11 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating ball cap
blocker and stretcher 1100 according to yet another preferred embodiment
of the present invention. Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher
system 100 comprises ball cap blocker and stretcher 1100, as shown.
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprises ball cap blocker
and stretcher 1100, as shown. Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher
1100 comprises hot air blower 1110, as shown. Preferably, hot air blower
1110 comprises air heater 1120 (preferably comprising a heating element),
air blower 1130 also referred to herein as a fan, and air ports 1140, as
shown. Preferably, air heater 1120 heats air with heater coil 1122.
Preferably, air blower 1130 blows the hot air with fan 1132. Preferably,
air ports 1140 allow air to flow from air blower 1130 through
crown-contourer 110 to ball cap 500. Preferably, hot air blower 1110 is
placed and substantially located within crown-contourer 110, as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill
in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as air flow, engineering design considerations,
etc., other arrangements for hot air blower, such as, for example, at
least one hot air hose coupled to a hot air blower within a crown
contourer, multiple hot air hoses coupled to a hot air blower within a
crown contourer, etc., may suffice.
[0079]Preferably, crown-contourer 110 comprises crown-contourer 1160, as
shown. Preferably, crown-contourer 1160 comprises inside shell 1162 and
outside shell 1164, as shown. Preferably, inside shell 1162 and outside
shell 1164 fit together leaving airspace 1166 in between. Preferably,
steam is directed into airspace 1166 so that the area underneath and
inside crown-contourer 1160 remains dry. Preferably, air ports 1140 go
through inside shell 1162 and outside shell 1164, as shown. Preferably,
air blower 1130 is activated by the user as needed.
[0080]Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 1100 comprises steam
generator 105A, as shown. Preferably, steam generator 105A comprises
water tank 660A, electrical heating element 650A (preferably from at
least one heat resistant material, more preferably a metallic
composition, most preferably aluminum), and heating element cover 651A,
as shown. Preferably, steam is activated by steam actuator 652A,
preferably a user-accessible control preferably interacting with water
tank 660A to deposit water onto heating element cover 651A. Preferably,
ball cap blocker and stretcher 1100 comprises secondary system structures
1199, such as a ratchet release arm, screen cap for hot air blower,
support chassis, support housings, etc., as shown.
[0081]The above arrangement at least embodying herein at least one ball
cap blocker streamer stretcher dryer.
[0082]FIG. 12 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating ball cap
blocker and stretcher 1200 according to an additional preferred
embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, ball cap blocker and
stretcher system 100 comprises ball cap blocker and stretcher 1200, as
shown. Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprises ball cap
blocker and stretcher 1200, as shown. Preferably, ball cap blocker and
stretcher 1200 comprises hot air blower 1110, as shown. Preferably,
crown-contourer 110 comprises crown-contourer 1210, as shown. Preferably,
crown-contourer 1210 comprises steam-apertures 125 through
brim-positioner 160, as shown.
[0083]Preferably, crown-contourer 110 comprises crown-contourer 1260, as
shown. Preferably, crown-contourer 1260 comprises inside shell 1262 and
outside shell 1264, as shown. Preferably, inside shell 1262 and outside
shell 1264 fit together leaving airspace 1266 in between, as shown.
Preferably, steam is directed into airspace 1266 and out through steam
apertures 125 in outside shell 1264 so that the area underneath and
inside crown-contourer 1260 remains dry. Preferably, air goes through air
ports 1140 in inside shell 1162 and out steam-apertures 125 on outside
shell 1264. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology, user
preference, etc., other arrangements, such as other hot-air blowers,
other crown-contour shapes and configurations, other air passage
arrangements, other steam passage arrangements, etc., may suffice.
[0084]Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprise brim region
steam guide 1299 to assist in directing steam (and hot air from hot air
blower) to the brim of a ball cap. Steam (and/or hot air) preferably flow
through channel 1298 in inside shell 1262. Preferably, brim region steam
guide 1299 comprises passages 1297 for steam and hot air, as shown.
Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 101 comprises a steam
generator 105B (which works in a manner similar to steam generator 105
and steam generator 105B) having water tank 660B and user-controllable
steam actuator 1295, as shown.
[0085]Preferably, ball cap blocker and stretcher 1200 comprises stretcher
140. Stretcher 140 is not shown in FIG. 12.
[0086]Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this
invention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes, and
materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in
connection with the above specification. Further, many other advantages
of applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art
from the above descriptions and the below claims.
* * * * *
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