Interchangeable nail system

Abstract

A nail system includes a nail component and a base component. The nail component is configured to attach to the base component, and the base component is configured to attach to the nail plate of a person's finger. The nail component has an upper outer nail surface configured to cover the nail plate and the base component to provide a desired aesthetic appearance of the finger when both the nail component and the base component are attached to the nail plate. In some embodiments, the nail component is configured to be separable from the base component to allow another nail component to be used with the base component. Preferably, the nail component is configured to be separable from the base component while the base component is attached to the nail plate, allowing the nail component to be interchanged with another nail component having a different aesthetic appearance.

Description

Copyright Notice

[0001] Any new and original authorial work in this document is protected under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. Reproduction of this document by any person is permitted when it appears in official government records, but all other copyright rights are reserved otherwise. Technical Field

[0002] This invention generally relates to nail technology used in cosmetics related to the aesthetic appearance of nails, and more specifically, to artificial nails. Background Technology

[0003] Conventionally, nail techniques used in cosmetics related to the aesthetic appearance of nails include: acrylic nails, which are applied to natural nails to enhance their appearance and provide canvas for nail art; and nail extensions, which are used to increase the length of natural nails using various materials, including gels and acrylic resins.

[0004] Unfortunately, these solutions result in an aesthetic appearance that lasts for weeks, but the look cannot be easily changed to another style. Sometimes press-on nails are available that are easier to remove and replace than acrylic nails and nail extensions, but even press-on nails still take some time and are not very convenient to change. They are also generally not as durable as artificial nails and nail extensions.

[0005] Therefore, it is believed that there is a need for improvements to this technology, and such improvements are provided by the implementation of the present invention according to one or more aspects and features. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention includes many aspects and features. Furthermore, while many aspects and features relate to and are described in the context of nail techniques used in cosmetics related to the aesthetic appearance of nails, the invention is not limited to use only in this context.

[0007] In one aspect of the invention, a nail system includes: a nail component; and a base component; wherein the nail component is configured to attach to the base component, and the base component is configured to attach to the nail plate of a person's finger; and wherein the nail component includes an upper outer nail surface configured to cover the nail plate and the base component for providing a desired aesthetic presentation of the finger when the nail component is attached to the base component and the base component is attached to the nail plate.

[0008] In one feature, the nail component is configured to be separate from the base component for use with another base component.

[0009] In one feature, the nail component is configured to be separate from the base component for use with another nail component while the base component remains attached to the nail plate.

[0010] In one feature, the nail component is configured to be separate from the base component while the base component remains attached to the nail plate, allowing the nail component to be interchanged with another nail component having a different aesthetic appearance. The different aesthetic appearance may include differences in one or more of length, contour, color, or material.

[0011] In one feature, the nail component interlocks with the base component when it is attached to the base component.

[0012] In one feature, the nail component is placed on top of the base component and latched to the base component under tension.

[0013] In one embodiment, the base component includes a recess in which a protrusion of the nail component is received. When the protrusion is positioned within the recess, the nail component preferably requires a degree of flexion or bending, which generates tension in the nail component. This tension is maintained when the protrusion is received within the recess to attach the nail component to the top of the base component in a fixed posture.

[0014] In one feature, the nail component defines a recess, and the front portion of the base component is received within the recess for holding the nail component in a fixed position relative to the base component.

[0015] In one feature, the nail system further includes an adhesive for attaching the base component to the nail plate. The adhesive includes nail glue or a UV-reactive gel polymer.

[0016] In one feature, the nail component is mechanically latched or locked to the base component.

[0017] In one feature, the nail component is attached to the base component via a friction joint.

[0018] In one feature, the nail component is fitted onto and snapped onto the base component.

[0019] In one embodiment, one of the nail component and the base component includes one or more channels or slots, and the other of the nail component and the base component includes a corresponding number of guide rails or ribs received within the one or more channels or slots for attaching the two components together. Preferably, one of the nail component and the base component includes channels or slots located on opposite lateral sides of the exterior of the component. The channels or slots preferably extend approximately half the length of the component between its distal ends. Furthermore, one of the nail component and the base component includes guide rails or ribs located on opposite lateral sides of the interior of the component.

[0020] In one feature, the rear portion of the nail component slides onto the front portion of the base component and covers it.

[0021] In one feature, the front portion of the nail component slides onto the rear portion of the base component and covers it.

[0022] In one feature, the nail component is rotated or twisted to engage with the nail component.

[0023] In one feature, the nail component includes three channels that receive three guide rails of the base component in a slidably engaged manner when the nail component slides onto the base component.

[0024] In one feature, the nail component includes a single centrally located channel within which the track or rib of the base component is received when the nail component slides onto the base component.

[0025] In one feature, one of the nail component and the base component includes one or more recesses, and the other of the nail component and the base component includes one or more protrusions, wherein when the nail component has been positioned on top of the base component and in a covering relationship with the base component, each of the one or more protrusions is received in one of the recesses for latching or locking the nail component relative to the base component in the position.

[0026] In one feature, when a protrusion is positioned within a recess, the nail component requires a degree of flexion or bending, which generates tension within the nail component. When the protrusion is received within the recess, at least some tension is maintained to hold the nail component in a fixed position on top of the base component. Due to this tension, a snapping or clicking sound is preferably produced when the protrusion is received within the recess. Additionally, a shallow groove may be provided to help guide the protrusion toward the recess as the nail component is positioned on top of the base component into a fixed position.

[0027] In another aspect, a nail system includes: a nail component; and a base component; wherein the nail component is configured to attach to the base component, and the base component is configured to attach to the nail plate of a person's finger; wherein the nail component includes an upper outer nail surface configured to cover the nail plate and the base component to provide a desired aesthetic presentation of the finger when the nail component is attached to the base component and the base component is attached to the nail plate; wherein the base component includes a double-sided adhesive, such as a pad or strip, the double-sided adhesive having opposing adhesive surfaces, one adhesive surface for adhering to the nail plate and the opposing adhesive surface for adhering to a surface of the nail component; and wherein the base component includes a pull tab configured to release the attachment of the base component to the nail plate when pulled.

[0028] In one feature, the pull tab is configured to also release the attachment of the base component to the nail component, thereby allowing the same nail component to be interchanged with another nail component later by simply using a new base component.

[0029] In one feature, the pull tab is configured to extend beyond the nail plate beneath the nail component when the nail system is in use, thereby making the pull tab accessible when the nail system is to be removed.

[0030] In one aspect, a method for interchangeable nail components in a nail system includes: attaching a base component of the nail system to a nail plate; attaching a nail component to the base component; separating the nail component from the base component while the base component is attached to the nail plate; and subsequently attaching a different nail component to the base component while the base component is attached to the nail plate.

[0031] In one feature, when the nail component is attached to the base component, the nail component extends over and covers the base component and the nail plate.

[0032] In one feature, the nail component and the base component each include means for releasably interlocking with the other component.

[0033] In one feature, the nail component and the base component each include means for mechanically interlocking with the other component.

[0034] In addition to the foregoing aspects and features of the present invention, it should be noted that the present invention further includes various logical combinations and sub-combinations of these aspects and features. Therefore, for example, the claims in this patent application, divisional application, or continuation patent application may individually target any aspect, feature, or implementation disclosed herein, or a combination thereof, without requiring any other aspect, feature, or implementation. Attached Figure Description

[0035] One or more preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are indicated by like reference numerals.

[0036] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system according to one or more aspects and features of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Another exploded diagram of the interchangeable nail system.

[0038] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A view of the interchangeable nail system.

[0039] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A top-view diagram of an interchangeable nail system.

[0040] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A bottom-view plan of the interchangeable nail system.

[0041] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Elevation view of the first side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0042] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0043] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 Elevation view of the front part of the interchangeable nail system.

[0044] Figure 9 yes Figure 3 Elevation view of the rear of the interchangeable nail system.

[0045] Figure 10 yes Figure 3 A view of the nail components of an interchangeable nail system.

[0046] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A top view of the nail component.

[0047] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 A bottom view of the nail component.

[0048] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 Elevation view of the first side of the nail component.

[0049] Figure 14 yes Figure 10 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the nail component.

[0050] Figure 15 yes Figure 10 Elevation view of the front part of the nail component.

[0051] Figure 16 yes Figure 10 Elevation view of the rear part of the nail component.

[0052] Figure 17 yes Figure 3 A view of the lower front side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0053] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A lower front view of the nail components of an interchangeable nail system.

[0054] Figure 18B It is similar to Figure 18 Another view of the nail component.

[0055] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 View of the upper rear side of the base component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0056] Figure 20 yes Figure 3 A view of the base components of an interchangeable nail system.

[0057] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 Top view of the base component.

[0058] Figure 22 yes Figure 20 A bottom view of the base component.

[0059] Figure 23 yes Figure 20Elevation view of the first side of the base component.

[0060] Figure 24 yes Figure 20 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the base component.

[0061] Figure 25 yes Figure 20 Elevation view of the front part of the base component.

[0062] Figure 26 yes Figure 20 Elevation view of the rear part of the base component.

[0063] Figure 27 It is similar to Figure 3 Another view of the interchangeable nail system.

[0064] Figure 27A Is it like this? Figure 27 The longitudinal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system shown.

[0065] Figure 27B Is it like this? Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system shown.

[0066] Figure 27C Is it like this? Figure 27 A horizontal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system shown.

[0067] Figure 27D It is similar to Figure 27A Another longitudinal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system.

[0068] Figure 27E Is it like this? Figure 27D A close-up of the front of the interchangeable nail system shown.

[0069] Figure 27F Is it like this? Figure 27D A close-up of the rear of the interchangeable nail system shown.

[0070] Figure 28 yes Figure 20 A view of the base component, which is adhered to the fingernail of a person's hand and ready to receive... Figure 10 Nail parts

[0071] Figure 29 This is an isometric view of another preferred embodiment of the interchangeable nail system according to one or more aspects and features of the invention.

[0072] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the first side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0073] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0074] Figure 32 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the front part of the interchangeable nail system.

[0075] Figure 33 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the rear of the interchangeable nail system.

[0076] Figure 34 yes Figure 29 A top-view diagram of an interchangeable nail system.

[0077] Figure 35 yes Figure 29 A bottom-view plan of the interchangeable nail system.

[0078] Figure 36 yes Figure 29 Isometric view of the nail components of an interchangeable nail system.

[0079] Figure 37 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the first side of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0080] Figure 38 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0081] Figure 39 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the front part of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0082] Figure 40 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the rear part of the nail component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0083] Figure 41 yes Figure 29 A top plan view of the nail components of an interchangeable nail system.

[0084] Figure 42 yes Figure 29 A bottom view of the nail components of an interchangeable nail system.

[0085] Figure 43 yes Figure 29 Isometric view of the base component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0086] Figure 44 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the first side of the base component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0087] Figure 45 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the base component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0088] Figure 46 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the front part of the base component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0089] Figure 47 yes Figure 29 Elevation view of the rear part of the base component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0090] Figure 48 yes Figure 29 A top plan view of the base component of an interchangeable nail system.

[0091] Figure 49 yes Figure 29 A bottom view of the base component of the interchangeable nail system.

[0092] Figure 50 It is similar to an interchangeable nail system Figure 29 Another view of the view.

[0093] Figure 51 It is similar to an interchangeable nail system Figure 30 Another view of the view.

[0094] Figure 52 Is it like this? Figure 50 The longitudinal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system shown.

[0095] Figure 53 Is it like this? Figure 51 The longitudinal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system shown.

[0096] Figure 54 Is it like this? Figure 50 A horizontal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system shown.

[0097] Figure 55 This is an exploded view of another preferred embodiment of the interchangeable nail system according to one or more aspects and features of the present invention.

[0098] Figure 56 yes Figure 55 Another exploded diagram of the interchangeable nail system.

[0099] Figure 57 It is the nail that adheres to a person's hand and is ready to receive Figure 55 Nail parts Figure 55 A view of the base component.

[0100] Figure 58 yes Figure 55 A view of the interchangeable nail system.

[0101] Figure 59 yes Figure 58 A top-view diagram of an interchangeable nail system.

[0102] Figure 60 yes Figure 58 A bottom-view plan of the interchangeable nail system.

[0103] Figure 61 yes Figure 58 Elevation view of the first side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0104] Figure 62 yes Figure 58 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0105] Figure 63 yes Figure 58 Elevation view of the front part of the interchangeable nail system.

[0106] Figure 64 yes Figure 58 Elevation view of the rear of the interchangeable nail system.

[0107] Figure 65 yes Figure 58 A view of the nail components of an interchangeable nail system.

[0108] Figure 66 for Figure 65 A top view of the nail component.

[0109] Figure 67 for Figure 65 A bottom view of the nail component.

[0110] Figure 68 yes Figure 65 Elevation view of the first side of the nail component.

[0111] Figure 69 yes Figure 65 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the nail component.

[0112] Figure 70 yes Figure 65 Elevation view of the front part of the nail component.

[0113] Figure 71 yes Figure 65 Elevation view of the rear part of the nail component.

[0114] Figure 72 yes Figure 58 A view of the base components of an interchangeable nail system.

[0115] Figure 73 yes Figure 72 Top view of the base component.

[0116] Figure 74 yes Figure 72 A bottom view of the base component.

[0117] Figure 75 yes Figure 72 Elevation view of the first side of the base component.

[0118] Figure 76 yes Figure 72 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the base component.

[0119] Figure 77 yes Figure 72 Elevation view of the front part of the base component.

[0120] Figure 78 yes Figure 72 Elevation view of the rear part of the base component.

[0121] Figure 74 yes Figure 53 A view of the lower front side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0122] Figure 75 yes Figure 74 A view of the lower front side of the nail component.

[0123] Figure 76 This is an exploded view of another preferred embodiment of the interchangeable nail system according to one or more aspects and features of the present invention.

[0124] Figure 77 yes Figure 76 A view of the bottom of the interchangeable nail system.

[0125] Figure 78 It is a top-down view of a human finger. Figure 76 The interchangeable nail system can be used on human fingers.

[0126] Figure 79 yes Figures 55-56 Another view of the interchangeable nail system.

[0127] Figure 80 yes Figures 55-56 Another view of the nail components of the interchangeable nail system.

[0128] Figure 81 This is an exploded perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the interchangeable nail system according to one or more aspects and features of the present invention.

[0129] Figure 82 yes Figure 81A perspective view of the bottom of the interchangeable nail system.

[0130] Figure 83 It is a top-down view of a human finger. Figure 81 Interchangeable nail systems can be used on human fingers.

[0131] Figure 84 yes Figure 81 A view of the interchangeable nail system.

[0132] Figure 85 yes Figure 84 A top-view diagram of an interchangeable nail system.

[0133] Figure 86 yes Figure 84 A bottom-view plan of the interchangeable nail system.

[0134] Figure 87 yes Figure 84 Elevation view of the first side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0135] Figure 88 yes Figure 84 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the interchangeable nail system.

[0136] Figure 89 yes Figure 84 Elevation view of the front part of the interchangeable nail system.

[0137] Figure 90 yes Figure 84 Elevation view of the rear of the interchangeable nail system. Detailed Implementation

[0138] As a preliminary point, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art (“Skilled Persons”) that the present invention has broad applicability and application. Furthermore, any embodiments discussed and marked as “preferred” are considered part of the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Other embodiments may also be discussed for additional illustrative purposes while providing a complete and feasible disclosure of the invention. Moreover, embodiments of the invention may be combined with only one or more aspects of the invention disclosed herein; only one or more features disclosed herein; or combinations thereof. Therefore, numerous embodiments are implicitly disclosed herein, and these embodiments fall within the scope of what is considered to be the present invention.

[0139] Therefore, while the invention has been described in detail herein with respect to one or more embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary, and is intended solely for the purpose of providing a complete and feasible disclosure of the invention. The detailed disclosure of one or more embodiments herein is not intended, nor should it be construed, as limiting the scope of patent protection granted to the invention in any of the claims of this published patent, which will be defined by the claims and their equivalents. The scope of patent protection provided by this invention is not intended to be limited by any limitations found herein that are not explicitly stated in the claims themselves.

[0140] Therefore, for example, any order and / or chronological sequence of the steps of the various processes or methods described herein is illustrative and not restrictive. It should be understood that although the steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described in sequence or chronological order, the steps of any such process or method are not limited to being performed in any particular order or sequence otherwise not indicated. For example, steps in such processes or methods can generally be performed in various different orders and sequences while still falling within the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of patent protection of this invention is intended to be defined by the published claims rather than the description set forth herein.

[0141] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to the term that a person skilled in the art would understand to mean based on the context in which such a term is used herein. Where the meaning of a term used herein (as understood by a person skilled in the art based on the context of its use) differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such a term, the meaning as understood by a person skilled in the art shall prevail.

[0142] Only with respect to the construction of any claim relative to the United States, claim elements should not be interpreted according to 35 U.S.SC 112(f) unless the explicit phrases “means for…” or “steps for…” are actually used in such claim elements, and therefore that statutory provision is intended and should apply to the interpretation of such claim elements. With respect to any method claim including a precondition step, the method requires that the precondition be satisfied and that the step is performed at least once, but not necessarily every time, during the execution of the claimed method.

[0143] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, "comprising" is open-ended, provided that such terminology is not exclusive. Additionally, "a" and "an" each generally mean "at least one," but do not exclude multiple, unless the context otherwise specifies. Thus, the reference to "picnic basket with apples" is the same as "picnic basket including apples" and "picnic basket containing apples," each identically describing both "picnic basket with at least one apple" and "picnic basket with apples"; the picnic basket may also contain one or more other items alongside the apple. Conversely, the reference to "picnic basket with a single apple" describes "picnic basket with only one apple"; the picnic basket may also contain one or more other items alongside the apple. In contrast, "picnic basket consisting of apples" contains only the single item contained within it, i.e., one apple; the picnic basket does not contain any other items.

[0144] When used in this article to connect a list of items, "or" means "at least one of the items," but does not exclude multiple items in the list. Therefore, mentioning "a picnic basket with cheese or biscuits" describes "a picnic basket with cheese but no biscuits," "a picnic basket with biscuits but no cheese," and "a picnic basket with both cheese and biscuits"; the picnic basket may also contain one or more other items alongside the cheese and biscuits.

[0145] When used in this article to connect a list of items, "and" means "all items in the list". Thus, mentioning "picnic basket with cheese and biscuits" describes "a picnic basket with cheese, wherein the picnic basket further contains biscuits", and describing "a picnic basket with biscuits, wherein the picnic basket further contains cheese"; the picnic basket may further contain one or more other items alongside the cheese and biscuits.

[0146] The phrase "at least one" followed by a list of items connected by "and" indicates one item in the list, but not every item in the list. Therefore, "at least one of apples and oranges" includes the following mutually exclusive scenarios: there are apples but no oranges; there are oranges but no apples; and there are both apples and oranges. In these scenarios, if apples are present, there may be more than one apple, and if oranges are present, there may be more than one orange. Furthermore, the phrase "one or more" followed by a list of items connected by "and" is equivalent to "at least one" followed by a list of items connected by "and".

[0147] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its embodiments, or uses. First implementation benefit

[0148] Figure 1This is an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of an interchangeable nail system 100 according to one or more aspects and features of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Another exploded view of the interchangeable nail system 100. The interchangeable nail system 100 includes a nail component 102, sometimes referred to herein as the nail cap; and a base component 104, sometimes referred to herein as the nail base.

[0149] Nail component 102 is configured to attach to base component 104, and base component 104 is configured to attach to the nail plate (nail) of a person's finger (such as a finger or thumb). In nail system 100, nail component 102 includes an upper outer nail surface 106 covering the nail plate and base component 104. When nail component 102 is attached to base component 104 and base component 104 is attached to nail plate, nail component 102 provides the overall desired aesthetic presentation.

[0150] The nail component 102 is preferably interlocked with its engagement with the base component 104, preventing the nail component 102 from unintentionally detaching from the base component 104. Furthermore, the nail component 102 and the base component 104 are configured to be separable from each other for interchangeability with one of a plurality of other nail components, while the base component 102 remains attached to the person's nail plate. The other nail components preferably have the same structure for removable attachment to the base component 104 and differ in their external appearance, whether in length, contour, color, or one or more other aesthetic design features.

[0151] As will be apparent from the following disclosure and accompanying drawings, the interchangeable nail system 100 shown includes a nail component 102 that is placed on top of and tensionally latched to a base component 104. A structure for achieving this includes a recess 108 formed in the base component 104, within which a protrusion 110 of the nail component 102 is received. When the protrusion is positioned within the recess, the nail component preferably requires a degree of flexion or bending, which generates tension in the nail component that is maintained when the protrusion is received within the recess, for attaching the nail component to the top of the base component 104 in a fixed posture. The structure also includes a mechanism for holding the front portion of the nail component 102 in a fixed position relative to the base component 104 when thus tensioned. In the nail system 100, the mechanism includes a shoulder or wall 112 located on the underside of the nail component 102, the shoulder or wall defining a recess 114, the nose 116 of the base component 104 abutting or extending into and engaging the recess when the nail component 102 is positioned and flexed over the top and in a covering relationship over the base component 104.

[0152] Figures 3-9 This is an additional view of the interchangeable nail system 100, in which the nail component 102 is shown attached to the base component 104. Specifically, Figure 3 yes Figure 1 View of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top plan view of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A bottom view of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Elevation view of the first side of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 7 yes Figure 3 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 8 yes Figure 3 Elevation view of the front of the interchangeable nail system 100; and Figure 9 yes Figure 3 Elevation view of the rear of the interchangeable nail system 100.

[0153] exist Figures 10-16 The diagram shows a view of the nail component 102 of the interchangeable nail system 100. Specifically, Figure 10 This is a view of the nail component 102; Figure 11 This is a top view of the nail component 102; Figure 12 This is a bottom view of the nail component 102; Figure 13 This is an elevation view of the first side of the nail component 102; Figure 14 This is an elevation view of the second opposite side of the nail component 102; Figure 15 yes Figure 10 An elevation view of the front part of the nail component; and Figure 16 This is an elevation view of the rear part of the nail component 102.

[0154] Additionally, Figure 17 This is a view of the lower front side of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A lower front view of the nail component 102 of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 18B It is similar to Figure 18 Another view of the nail component 102; and Figure 19 yes Figure 17 View of the upper rear side of the base component 104 of the interchangeable nail system 100.

[0155] exist Figures 20-26 The diagram shows a view of the base component 104 of the interchangeable nail system 100. Specifically, Figure 20 yes Figure 3A view of the base component 104 of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 21 yes Figure 20 Top view of the base component 104; Figure 22 yes Figure 20 Bottom view of the base component 104; Figure 23 yes Figure 20 Elevation view of the first side of the base component 104; Figure 24 yes Figure 20 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the base component 104; Figure 25 yes Figure 20 An elevation view of the front portion of the base component 104; and Figure 26 yes Figure 20 Elevation view of the rear part of the base component 104.

[0156] Figure 27 It is similar to Figure 3 Another view of the interchangeable nail system 100. Furthermore, Figure 27A Is it like this? Figure 27 A longitudinal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 100 shown; Figure 27B Is it like this? Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 100 shown; Figure 27C Is it like this? Figure 27 A horizontal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 100 shown; Figure 27D It is similar to Figure 27A Another longitudinal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 100; Figure 27E Is it like this? Figure 27D A close-up of the front of the interchangeable nail system 100 shown; and Figure 27F Is it like this? Figure 27D A close-up of the rear of the interchangeable nail system 100 shown.

[0157] Figure 28 yes Figure 20 The base component 104 adheres to the fingernail of the human hand and is ready to receive Figure 10 A view of the nail component 102.

[0158] Figures 29-35 Another example of a preferred embodiment of the interchangeable nail system 100 according to one or more aspects and features of the invention is shown. Specifically, Figure 29 This is an isometric view of a preferred embodiment of the nail system 150; Figure 30 This is an elevation view of the first side of the interchangeable nail system 150; Figure 31 This is an elevation view of the second opposite side of the interchangeable nail system 150; Figure 32 This is an elevation view of the front of the interchangeable nail system 150; Figure 33This is an elevation view of the rear of the interchangeable nail system 150; Figure 34 This is a top view of the nail system 150; and Figure 35 This is a bottom view of the interchangeable nail system 150.

[0159] Interchangeable nail system 150 is similar to interchangeable nail system 100 and includes a nail component 152 and a base component 154. Nail component 152 is configured to attach to base component 154, and base component 154 is configured to attach to the nail plate (nail) of a person's finger (such as a finger or thumb). In nail system 150, nail component 152 includes an upper outer nail surface 156 covering the nail plate and base component 154. When nail component 152 is attached to base component 154 and base component 154 is attached to nail plate, nail component 152 provides the overall desired aesthetic appearance.

[0160] The nail component 152 is preferably interlocked with the base component 154, preventing the nail component 152 from unintentionally detaching from the base component 154. Furthermore, the nail component 152 and the base component 154 are configured to be separable from each other for interchangeability with one of a plurality of other nail components, while the base component 152 remains attached to the person's nail plate. The other nail components preferably have the same structure for removable attachment to the base component 154 and differ in their external appearance, whether in length, profile, color, or other aesthetic design features, or more.

[0161] As will be apparent from the following disclosure and accompanying drawings, the interchangeable nail system 150 shown includes a nail component 152 that is positioned on top of and tensionally latched to a base component 154. A structure for achieving this includes a recess 158 formed in the base component 154, within which a protrusion 160 of the nail component 152 is received. When the protrusion 160 is positioned within the recess 158, the nail component 152 preferably requires a degree of flexion or bending, which generates tension in the nail component 152 that is maintained when the protrusion 160 is received within the recess 158 for attaching the nail component 152 to the top of the base component 154 in a fixed posture. The structure also includes mechanisms for holding the front portion of the nail component 152 in a fixed position relative to the base component 154 when thus tensioned. In the nail system 150, the mechanism includes a shoulder or wall 162 located on the underside of the nail component 152, the shoulder or wall defining a recess 164, the nose 166 of the base component 154 abutting or extending into and engaging the recess when the nail component 152 is positioned and flexed over the top and in a covering relationship over the base component 154.

[0162] exist Figures 36-42 The diagram shows a view of the nail component 152 of the interchangeable nail system 150. Specifically, Figure 36 yes Figure 29 Isometric view of nail component 152 of interchangeable nail system 150; Figure 37 yes Figure 36 Elevation view of the first side of the nail component 152; Figure 38 yes Figure 36 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the nail component 152; Figure 39 yes Figure 36 Elevation view of the front part of the nail component 152; Figure 40 yes Figure 36 Elevation view of the rear part of the nail component 152; Figure 41 yes Figure 36 A top view of the nail component 152; and Figure 42 yes Figure 36 A bottom view of the nail component 152.

[0163] exist Figures 43-49 The diagram shows a view of the base component 154 of the interchangeable nail system 150. Specifically, Figure 43 yes Figure 29 Isometric view of the base component 154 of the interchangeable nail system 150; Figure 44 yes Figure 43 Elevation view of the first side of the base component 154; Figure 45 yes Figure 43 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the base nail component 154; Figure 46 yes Figure 43 Elevation view of the front part of the base component 154; Figure 47 yes Figure 43 Elevation view of the rear part of the base component 154; Figure 48 yes Figure 43 A top plan view of the base component 154; and Figure 49 yes Figure 43 Bottom view of the base component 154.

[0164] Figure 50 It is similar to Figure 29 Another view of the interchangeable nail system 150; and Figure 51 It is similar to Figure 30 Another elevation view of the second side of the interchangeable nail system 150. (The image is shown in the original text.) Figure 50 and Figure 51 Compared to the view, Figure 52 Is it like this? Figure 50 The longitudinal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 150 shown is as follows: Figure 53 Is it like this? Figure 51A cross-sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 150 is shown. Additionally, Figure 54 Is it like this? Figure 50 The longitudinal sectional view of the interchangeable nail system 150 shown. Second implementation benefit

[0165] Figure 55 and Figure 56 Each is an exploded view of a second preferred embodiment of another interchangeable nail system 200 according to one or more aspects and features of the invention. Figure 57 This is a view of the base component 204 of the interchangeable nail system 200, which is attached to the nail plate of a person's hand nail and is ready to receive the nail component 202 of the interchangeable system 200.

[0166] Figures 58-63 An additional view of the interchangeable nail system 200 is shown. Specifically, Figure 58 yes Figures 55-56 View of the interchangeable nail system 200; Figure 59 yes Figure 58 Top plan view of the interchangeable nail system 200; Figure 60 yes Figure 58 A bottom view of the interchangeable nail system 200; Figure 61 yes Figure 58 Elevation view of the first side of the interchangeable nail system 200; Figure 62 yes Figure 58 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the interchangeable nail system 200; Figure 63 yes Figure 58 Elevation view of the front of the interchangeable nail system 200; Figure 64 ;and Figure 64 yes Figure 58 Elevation view of the rear of the interchangeable nail system 200.

[0167] A view of the nail component 202 of the interchangeable nail system 200. Figures 65-71 As shown in the image. Figure 65 This is a view of the nail component 202 of the interchangeable nail system 200; Figure 66 yes Figure 65 Top view of nail component 202; Figure 67 yes Figure 65 A bottom view of the nail component 202; Figure 68 yes Figure 65 Elevation view of the first side of the nail component 202; Figure 69 yes Figure 65 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the nail component 202; Figure 70 yes Figure 65 An elevation view of the front part of the nail component 202; and Figure 71 yes Figure 65 Elevation view of the rear part of the nail component 202.

[0168] Figure 58 View of the base component 204 of the interchangeable nail system 200 Figures 67-52 As shown in the image. Specifically, Figure 72 yes Figure 58 A view of the base component 204 of the interchangeable nail system 200; Figure 73 yes Figure 72 Top view of the base component 204; Figure 74 yes Figure 72 Bottom view of the base component 204; Figure 75 yes Figure 72 Elevation view of the first side of the base component 204; Figure 76 yes Figure 72 Elevation view of the second opposite side of the base component 204; Figure 77 yes Figure 72 An elevation view of the front portion of the base component 204; and Figure 78 yes Figure 72 Elevation view of the rear part of the base component 204.

[0169] Figure 79 yes Figure 58 A lower front view of the interchangeable nail system 200; and Figure 80 yes Figure 79 A view of the lower front side of the nail component 202.

[0170] As shown in the figure, and similar to the interchangeable nail systems 100 and 150 disclosed above, the interchangeable nail system 200 includes a nail component 202 and a base component 204. The nail component 202 is configured to attach to the base component 204, wherein the base component 204 is configured to attach to the nail plate (nail) of a person's finger (such as a finger or thumb). The nail component 202 includes an upper outer nail surface 206 that covers the nail plate and the base component 204 and provides the overall desired aesthetic presentation when the nail component 202 is attached to the base component 204.

[0171] The nail component 202 is also preferably interlocked in its engagement with the base component 204, preventing unintended separation of the nail component 202 from the base component 204. Furthermore, the nail component 202 and the base component 204 are configured to be separable from each other for interchangeability with one of a plurality of other nail components, while the base component 202 remains attached to the person's nail plate. The other nail components preferably have the same structure for removable attachment to the base component 204 and differ in their external appearance, whether in length, contour, color, or one or more other aesthetic design features.

[0172] As will be apparent from the foregoing disclosure and figures, and unlike the interchangeable nail systems 100, 150 in which the nail component is fitted onto and snapped onto the base component 104 in a tensioned state, the illustrated interchangeable nail system 200 includes a nail component 202 comprising a guide rail or rib 208 received within a channel or slot 210 of the base component 204. As shown, the rib 208 is located on opposite lateral sides of the nail component 202 and extends from its inner surface, and the slot 210 is located on opposite lateral sides of the base component 204 on its exterior. The opposite lateral side slots 210 extend approximately half a length L of the base component 204 from the front of the base component 204 toward the rear of the base component 204. Furthermore, the rear of the nail component 202 slides onto the front of the base component 204 and covers it.

[0173] Alternatively, the nail component may include a channel or slot, and the base component may include a guide or rib received within the channel or slot for sliding engagement of the nail component and the base component. The nail component may also slide toward the rear of the base component onto the front of the base component, or the nail component may slide toward the front of the base component onto the rear of the base component. In either case, the nail component still covers the base component, wherein the outer surface of the nail component provides the generally desired aesthetic appearance when attached to the base component. Other alternatives include rotating or twisting the nail component to latch into engagement with the base component.

[0174] Returning to the interchangeable nail system 200 shown in the accompanying drawings, the base member 204 preferably includes a recess 212 in the top of the base member 204, which receives a downwardly extending protrusion 214 on the underside of the nail member 202. When the nail member 202 has slid into a desired position on the top of the base member 204 and is in a covering relationship with the base member 204, the protrusion is received and disposed within the recess 212 for latching or locking the nail member 202 relative to the base member 204 into said position.

[0175] Furthermore, when the protrusion 214 is positioned within the recess 212, the nail component 202 preferably requires a certain degree of flexure or bending. This flexure or bending generates tension in the nail component 204 as the protrusion 214 contacts and slides towards the desired position on the top surface of the base component 204. This tension is maintained at least some of the tension in the desired position when the protrusion 214 is received within the recess 212, for securing the nail component 202 to the top of the base component 204. This tension is preferably caused by the required flexure of the nail component 202, which is necessary for receiving the rib 208 within the slot 210. Due to this tension, a snapping or clicking sound can be heard or felt when the protrusion 214 is received within the recess 212.

[0176] Although not shown, a shallow groove may be provided along the top surface of the base member 204 to help guide the protrusion 214 toward the recess 212 when the nail member 202 slides on the top of the base member 204 to the desired position. Third implementation benefit

[0177] A third preferred embodiment of the interchangeable nail system 300 according to one or more aspects and features of the present invention is advantageous in Figures 81-90 This is indicated in the text. Specifically, Figure 81 This is an exploded view showing the nail component 302 and the base component 304 of the interchangeable nail system 300; Figure 82 This is a view of the bottom of the interchangeable nail system 300; and Figure 83 It is a bottom-view plan view of the human finger to which the interchangeable nail system 300 is attached.

[0178] Additionally, Figure 84 This is a top view of the interchangeable nail system 300; Figure 85 This is a top plan view of the interchangeable nail system 300; Figure 86 This is a bottom view of the interchangeable nail system 300; Figure 87 This is an elevation view of the first side of the interchangeable nail system 300; Figure 88 This is an elevation view of the second opposite side of the interchangeable nail system 300; Figure 89 This is an elevation view of the front of the interchangeable nail system 300; and Figure 90 This is an elevation view of the rear of the interchangeable nail system 300.

[0179] As shown in the figure, the interchangeable nail system 300 includes a nail component 302 having an upper outer nail surface 306 and a base component 304. The nail component 302 is configured to attach to the base component 304, and the base component 304 is configured to attach to the nail plate of a person's finger (such as a finger). The nail component 302 includes an upper outer nail surface 306 that covers the nail plate and the base component 304 and provides the overall desired aesthetic presentation when the nail component 302 is attached to the base component 304.

[0180] According to one or more aspects and features of the invention, the attachment of the nail component 302 to the base component 304 and the attachment of the base component 304 to the nail plate are each achieved by providing the base component 104 with a double-sided adhesive, such as a pad or strip, having adhesive surfaces with opposite orientations.

[0181] When attaching the base component 304 to the nail plate, the pad or strip 386 ( Figure 82 An adhesive surface is adhered to the bottom surface 310 of the base component 304. For example... Figure 81 As indicated at point 392, the opposite adhesive side of the pad or strip is exposed by peeling off the cover 388 and adhering it to the surface of the nail plate. When the nail component 302 is attached to the base component 304, one adhesive surface of the pad or strip is adhered to the top surface of the base component 304. When the nail component 302 is to be attached, the cover is peeled off from the opposite adhesive surface, as shown in Figure 392. Figure 81 As shown in 394, the bottom side of the nail component 302 is adhered thereto.

[0182] Additionally, the base component 304 includes a pull tab 308 that extends from and forms part of or is attached to a pad or strip on the bottom surface of the base component 304. The pull tab 308 is configured to release the attachment of the base component 304 to the nail plate. This occurs in response to a shear force applied to it by pulling the pull tab 308. Figure 83 When the nail system 300 is used as shown, the pull tab 308 preferably extends below the nail component 302 beyond the nail plate, so that the pull tab 308 is accessible when it is desired to remove the nail system 300.

[0183] While recognizing that the nail system 300 is not suitable for interchangeable nail parts with the same base component, the nail system still provides a convenient way to interchange nail parts in use to change the aesthetic appearance of the nails by simply pulling the tab, removing the nail system, and installing a new nail system on the nail.

[0184] Additionally or alternatively, the pull tab is preferably configured similarly to release the attachment of the base component to the nail component. It is also conceivable that, in the case that the pad or strip is first attached to the underside of the nail component, the nail system 300 will indeed provide interchangeability, wherein the nail component can be interchanged with another nail component without altering the base component.

[0185] Exemplary pull tabs of this type used with adhesive pads or strips are similar in structure and composition to those pull tabs sold by 3M under the registered trademark "Command". Furthermore, such nail systems are believed to provide a more durable fit than conventional "press" nails.

[0186] Based on the foregoing description, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the present invention has broad applicability and application. Many embodiments and modifications of the invention, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, beyond those specifically described herein, will be apparent or reasonably suggested from the invention and its foregoing description without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

[0187] Therefore, for example, within the scope of the invention, a kit is envisioned in which multiple nail parts with different aesthetic appearances are provided, and multiple base members for attaching the nail parts are provided, the number of nail parts being more than two, three, four, or five times the number of base members (the additional base members are unnecessary because the nail parts are interchangeable with each other).

[0188] Therefore, although the invention has been described in detail herein with respect to one or more preferred embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is merely illustrative and exemplary, and is intended only to provide a complete and feasible disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed as limiting the invention or otherwise excluding any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications, or equivalent arrangements, which are limited only by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A nail system comprising: (a) Nail components; and (b) Base components; (c) wherein the nail component is configured to attach to the base component, and the base component is configured to attach to the nail plate of a human finger; and (d) wherein the nail component includes an upper outer nail surface configured to cover the nail plate and the base component to provide a desired aesthetic presentation of the finger when the nail component is attached to the base component and the base component is attached to the nail plate.

2. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The base component includes a recess, and the protrusion of the nail component is received within the recess.

3. The nail system according to claim 2, wherein, When the protrusion is positioned within the recess, the nail component requires a certain degree of flexion or bending, which generates tension in the nail component. This tension is maintained when the protrusion is received within the recess to attach the nail component to the top of the base component in a fixed posture.

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

5. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The nail component is configured to be separate from the base component so that the nail component can be used with another base component.

6. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The nail component is configured to separate from the base component while remaining attached to the nail plate, so as to allow the nail component to be interchanged with another nail component that has a different aesthetic appearance.

7. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The different aesthetic appearances include differences in one or more of the following: length, profile, color, or material.

8. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The nail component interlocks with the base component when it is attached to the base component.

9. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The nail component is placed on top of the base component and tensionedly latched to the base component.

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

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

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

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

14. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The nail component is assembled onto the base component and snapped onto the base component.

15. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, One of the nail component and the base component includes one or more channels or slots, and the other of the nail component and the base component includes a corresponding number of guide rails or ribs. The guide rail or rib is received within one or more channels or slots for attaching the two components together.

16. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, One of the nail component and the base component includes a channel or slot located on opposite lateral sides of the component.

17. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, One of the nail component and the base component includes channels or slots located on opposite lateral sides of its exterior.

18. The nail system according to claim 17, wherein, The channel or slot extends approximately half the length of the component between its distal ends.

19. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, One of the nail component and the base component includes guide rails or ribs located on opposite lateral sides of the component.

20. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, One of the nail component and the base component includes guide rails or ribs located on opposite lateral sides inside the component.

21. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The rear part of the nail component slides onto the front part of the base component and covers the base component.

22. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The front part of the nail component slides onto the rear part of the base component and covers the base component.

23. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The nail component is rotated or twisted to engage with the nail component.

24. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The nail component includes three channels that receive three guide rails of the base component in a sliding engagement manner when the nail component slides onto the base component.

25. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, The nail component includes a single centrally located channel, within which a guide rail or rib of the base component is received when the nail component slides onto the base component.

26. The nail system according to claim 1, wherein, One of the nail component and the base component includes one or more recesses, and the other of the nail component and the base component includes one or more protrusions. When the nail component has been positioned on top of the base component and in a covering relationship with the base component, each of the one or more protrusions is received in a recess for latching or locking the nail component relative to the base component in the position.

27. The nail system according to claim 26, wherein, When a protrusion is positioned within a recess, the nail component requires a certain degree of flexion or bending, which generates tension in the nail component. When the protrusion is received within the recess, at least some of this tension is maintained to hold the nail component in a fixed position on top of the base component.

28. The nail system according to claim 26, wherein, When the protrusion is received within the recess due to the tension, a snapping or clicking sound is produced.

29. The nail system according to claim 26, wherein, When the nail component is positioned on top of the base component into the fixed position, the shallow groove helps guide the protrusion toward the recess.

30. A nail system comprising: (a) Nail components; and (b) Base components; (c) wherein the nail component is configured to be attached to the base component, and the base component is configured to be attached to the nail plate of a human finger; (d) wherein the base component includes a double-sided adhesive, such as a pad or strip, having adhesive surfaces facing opposite directions, wherein one adhesive surface is for adhesion to the nail plate and the opposite adhesive surface is for adhesion to the surface of the base component; and (e) wherein the pull tab is configured to release the attachment of the base component to the nail plate when pulled.

31. The nail system according to claim 30, wherein, The pull tab is configured to extend beyond the nail plate beneath the nail component when the nail system is in use, thereby allowing access to the pull tab when the nail system is to be removed.

32. A nail system comprising: (a) A base component for attachment to a nail plate; as well as (b) A nail component, said nail component being configured to be attached to the base component in a covering relationship relative to the nail plate and the base component; (c) wherein the nail component is detachable from the base component for interchangeability with another nail component within the nail system, the other nail component being configured to be attached to the base component.

33. The nail system of claim 32, further comprising an adhesive for attaching the base component to the nail plate.

34. The nail system according to claim 32, wherein, The base component is adhered to the nail plate.

35. The nail system according to claim 34, wherein, The base component is adhered to the nail plate by an adhesive sheet.

36. The nail system according to claim 34, wherein, The base component is adhered to the nail plate using nail glue or a UV-reactive gel polymer.

37. The nail system according to claim 32, wherein, The nail component is configured to snap onto the top of the base component.

38. The nail system according to claim 32, wherein, The nail component includes one or more guide rails or ribs configured to slide within one or more slots or channels of the base component.

39. The nail system according to claim 38, wherein, The nail component defines three T-shaped channels, and a portion of the nail component is received in each of the three T-shaped channels in a manner that allows it to slidably engage with each of the three T-shaped channels.

40. The nail system according to claim 39, wherein, Each of the T-shaped channels includes a protrusion configured to be received within a corresponding recess defined on the outermost surface of the base member.

41. The nail system according to claim 32, The nail component mentioned above includes a protrusion. The base component includes a recess, and The protrusion of the nail component is received within the recess of the base component for latching the nail component to the base component.

42. The nail system according to claim 41, wherein, The protrusion includes a knob and is received in the recess of the base component.

43. The nail system according to claim 41, wherein, The protrusion includes a circular surface and is received within a recess located at the rear of the base member.

44. The nail system according to claim 43, wherein, The nail component defines a recess located on the underside of the nail component along the front portion of the nail component, and When the nail component is latched onto the base component, the front portion of the base component is received within the recess, and the protrusion of the nail component is received within the recess of the base component.

45. The nail system according to claim 43, wherein, A portion of the circular surface is cylindrical.

46. ​​A method for interchangeable nail components in a nail system with another nail component, comprising: (a) Attaching the base components of the nail system to the nail plate; (b) Attaching the nail component to the base component; as well as (c) While the base component is attached to the nail plate, the nail component is separated from the base component, and thereafter, while the base component is attached to the nail plate, different nail components are attached to the base component.

47. The method according to claim 46, wherein, When the nail component is attached to the base component, the nail component extends over and covers the base component and the nail plate.

48. The method according to claim 46, wherein, The nail component and the base component each include means for releasably interlocking with the other component.

49. The method according to claim 46, wherein, The nail component and the base component each include means for mechanically interlocking with the other component.

50. A method for interchangeing a nail component with another nail component in a nail system, as disclosed herein.

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