Magnetic attachment device

Abstract

A magnetic attachment device for securing lapel pins, pin back buttons, and similar ornamental items without puncturing or damaging clothing or other thin materials. The device includes a cylindrical body housing a strong, rare-earth magnet and incorporating tubular channels configured to receive lapel pin posts, pin back button pins, a set screw, and an optional eye screw. A complementary base with an opposing magnet facilitates secure attachment through non-conductive materials. The device extends the functionality of decorative pins by enabling attachment to ferromagnetic surfaces, use as jewelry, and other non-traditional display methods. The device is reusable and preserves the integrity of both the attached items and the underlying material. A single cylindrical body accommodates both standard lapel pin posts and pin back button pins, providing versatile ornamental item support in one integrated device.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 USC § 119 to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 777,395 entitled MAGNETIC ATTACHMENT DEVICE filed Mar. 25, 2025, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a magnetic attachment device for lapel pins and pin back buttons that mitigate damage caused to clothing.BACKGROUND

[0003] The use of lapel pins and pin back buttons requires puncturing the garments to which they are to be attached, and repeated use of lapel pins and pin back buttons creates visible holes and damage to garments, limiting the number of times a lapel pin or pin back button can be attached and removed from the same garment. Lapel pins and pin back buttons can only be used with materials that can be punctured, such as cloth or paper. Therefore, hard materials, such as metal and plastic surfaces, cannot be used with lapel pins and pin back buttons.

[0004] In view of the above, what is needed is a magnetic attachment device configured to securely hold ornamental items such as lapel pins and pin back buttons without causing damage to clothing or other materials.

[0005] While magnetic pin converters are known in the art, existing solutions fail to accommodate both lapel pin posts and pin back button pins within a single device. Moreover, known magnetic converters do not incorporate an eye screw feature enabling the ornamental item to be worn as jewelry, nor do they provide a unified mechanism for securing ornamental items to ferromagnetic surfaces. Accordingly, a need exists for an integrated magnetic attachment device capable of accommodating multiple pin types and expanding the display versatility of ornamental items beyond traditional garment attachment.SUMMARY

[0006] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more implementations in order to provide a basic understanding of some implementations. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated implementations and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all implementations nor delineate the scope of any or all implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more implementations in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a magnetic attachment device configured to securely hold ornamental items such as lapel pins and pin back buttons without causing damage to clothing or other materials. The device comprises a cylindrical body defining a cavity for receiving a strong, rare-earth magnet. Integrated within the cylindrical body are multiple tubular channels designed to accommodate various attachment mechanisms, including channels dimensioned to receive the pin of a lapel pin, pin back button pins, a set screw for securing pins, and an eye screw for additional suspension functionality.

[0008] A corresponding base component includes a flat cylindrical body containing a magnet of opposing polarity, enabling magnetic attachment to the cylindrical body through thin, non-conductive materials such as fabric. The opposing magnetic forces securely fasten the ornamental items without the need to puncture the material.

[0009] Furthermore, the device expands the utility of lapel pins and pin back buttons by allowing them to be displayed in novel ways, such as on ferromagnetic surfaces or worn as jewelry via the integrated eye screw. The magnetic attachment device is reusable, easy to operate, and designed to preserve the integrity of both the attached decorative items and the surfaces to which they are affixed.

[0010] The present disclosure also relates to a kit for securing ornamental items, comprising the cylindrical body and the base as described herein. The kit may further include at least one of a set screw configured to secure an ornamental item within the body, or an eye screw configured to be received within a tubular channel of the body to enable the device to be worn as a necklace or suspended from an external structure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] In the following description, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a left-side exploded view of a magnetic attachment device.

[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates a right-side exploded view of the magnetic attachment device.

[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a right-side perspective view of the magnetic attachment device.

[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a bottom, right-side perspective view of the magnetic attachment device.

[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates the magnetic attachment device applied to a jacket.

[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates the magnetic attachment device hanging from a necklace.

[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates the magnetic attachment device used on a ferromagnetic surface.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The features, nature, and advantages of the present aspects may become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout.Terms

[0020] The term “clothing” may refer to any fabric-based garment or accessory that the magnetic attachment device can be used on or in connection with, including but not limited to shirts, jackets, blouses, coats, hats, scarves, ties, uniforms, costumes, and similar articles made from cloth or other thin, flexible, and non-conductive materials. Additionally, the device may be used with other items beyond traditional clothing, such as bags, backpacks, lanyards, fabric-based display panels, curtains, or decorative fabrics. The magnetic attachment device is further compatible with any thin material capable of allowing magnetic attraction, including synthetic fabrics, natural fibers, and composite materials, provided they do not interfere with the magnetic function.

[0021] The term “accessory” includes, but is not limited to bags, backpacks, purses, lanyards, and fabric belts, where traditional pin closures might damage the material.

[0022] The term “display surface” includes, but is not limited to, fabric-based display panels, bulletin boards, curtains, banners, or decorative fabrics used in exhibitions, trade shows, or retail environments.

[0023] The term “ornamental items” include, but are not limited to, lapel pins, pin back buttons, brooches, badges, medallions, charms, pendants, emblems, decorative buttons, or any similar items designed for attachment to clothing, accessories, or display surfaces.

[0024] The term “magnet” may refer to a strong, rare-earth magnet, a neodymium magnet, a samarium-cobalt magnet, or any other permanent magnet material capable of producing sufficient magnetic force to securely attach the cylindrical body and base through thin, non-conductive materials.Overview

[0025] Generally speaking, the present disclosure is directed towards a magnetic attachment device that provides a versatile and non-invasive solution for securing decorative items such as lapel pins and pin back buttons. The magnetic attachment device comprises a cylindrical body containing a cavity configured to house a magnet, such as a strong, rare-earth magnet. Various tubular channels are integrated into the cylindrical body to accommodate different attachment mechanisms, including, but not limited to, lapel pin posts, pin back button pins, set screws, and an optional eye screw for expanded functionality.

[0026] A complementary base component, featuring a flat cylindrical structure with an embedded magnet of opposing polarity, is used in conjunction with the cylindrical body. This magnetic interaction allows the magnetic attachment device to securely attach through thin materials such as garments or non-conductive substrates without puncturing or damaging the material.

[0027] Additionally, the magnetic attachment device is designed to extend the display capabilities of lapel pins and pin back buttons beyond traditional use. It permits attachment to ferromagnetic surfaces and enables ornamental items to be worn as jewelry, such as necklaces, through the integrated eye screw feature. The magnetic attachment device is reusable, easy to operate, and preserves the integrity of both the attached items and the materials to which they are secured.Magnetic Attachment Device

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates a left-side exploded view of a magnetic attachment device 100. FIG. 2 illustrates a right-side exploded view of the magnetic attachment device 100. FIG. 3 illustrates a right-side perspective view of the magnetic attachment device 100. FIG. 4 illustrates a bottom, right-side perspective view of the magnetic attachment device 100. FIG. 5 illustrates the magnetic attachment device 100 applied to a jacket. FIG. 6 illustrates the magnetic attachment device 100 hanging from a necklace. FIG. 7 illustrates the magnetic attachment device 100 used on a ferromagnetic surface. The following discussion refers interchangeably to FIGS. 1-7.

[0029] The magnetic attachment device 100 comprises a cylindrical body 4 and a base 10 detachably mounted to the cylindrical body 4. According to one aspect, the cylindrical body 4 comprises a cylinder defining a cavity configured to receive a magnet 8, such as a strong, rare-earth magnet. According to one aspect, the cylinder may be made from plastic, or any other material known in the art. In one embodiment, the cylindrical body 4 is formed from a non-ferromagnetic material, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), nylon, polycarbonate, aluminum, or stainless steel, so as not to interfere with the magnetic field generated by the magnet 8. The magnet 8 is retained within the cavity of the cylindrical body 4 by a press fit, adhesive bonding, or a threaded retention ring, or any combination thereof, as known in the art. In one embodiment, the magnet 8 is retained within the cylindrical body 4 by a press fit that allows the magnet 8 to be removed and replaced when desired.

[0030] A first tubular channel 1 extends perpendicularly through the flat surface of the cylinder along its entire length, the channel being dimensioned to receive the pin of a lapel pin. A second tubular channel 2 houses a set screw 7, which is configured to secure the lapel pin to the cylindrical body 4, the set screw being operable using a 0.05-inch Allen wrench, for example. A third tubular channel 3a, 3b extends through the cylindrical body and is dimensioned to receive the pin of a pin back button, allowing the attachment and securement of pin back buttons. A fourth tubular channel 5 is configured to receive an eye screw 6, enabling the magnetic attachment device 100 to be worn as a necklace or suspended via the loop of the eye screw. In one embodiment, the first tubular channel 1 has an inner diameter in the range of approximately 1.3 mm to 1.5 mm to accommodate standard lapel pin posts. The third tubular channel 3a, 3b has an inner diameter in the range of approximately 1.2 mm to 1.4 mm to accommodate standard pin back button pins. When a pin back button pin is inserted into the third tubular channel 3a, 3b, the pin back button's own clasp mechanism retains the pin within the third tubular channel 3a, 3b, providing a secure attachment without the need for an additional set screw. In one embodiment, the magnets 8 and 9 collectively provide a holding force of at least approximately 2 pounds (approximately 0.9 kg) when the cylindrical body 4 and base 10 are separated by a fabric layer having a thickness of up to approximately 5 mm, ensuring secure retention of the ornamental item during normal wear.

[0031] The base 10 comprises a flat cylindrical body defining a cavity configured to receive a magnet 9, such as a strong, rare-earth magnet 9. The base 10 is configured to magnetically attach to the cylindrical body 4 through a thin cloth or other non-conductive material.

[0032] The magnetic attachment device 100 is configured to secure lapel pins and pin back buttons to the cylindrical body 4. The exposed magnet surfaces 8 and 9 of the cylinder 4 and base 10 possess opposing polarities, such that when the magnetic attachment device 100 is worn, the magnetic attraction secures the attached lapel pin or pin back button to a garment or other thin, non-conductive material (see FIG. 5). Additionally, when used in conjunction with the eye screw 6, the magnetic attachment device 100 allows lapel pins and pin back buttons to be worn as a necklace (see FIG. 6) or suspended via the loop of the eye screw. The magnetic attachment device 100 further enables lapel pins and pin back buttons to be magnetically secured to ferromagnetic surfaces (see FIG. 7). It will be understood that in the necklace use configuration illustrated in FIG. 6, and in the ferromagnetic surface use configuration illustrated in FIG. 7, the base 10 is not required; the cylindrical body 4 operates independently in these configurations, with the magnet 8 providing direct magnetic attraction to the ferromagnetic surface, or with the eye screw 6 enabling suspension from an external structure such as a necklace chain or cord.

[0033] The magnetic attachment device 100 provides a non-invasive means of securing lapel pins and pin back buttons without puncturing or damaging clothing, garments, or other thin materials. It further enhances the functionality of lapel pins and pin back buttons by enabling their display on hard surfaces that cannot be pierced by pins. Additionally, the magnetic attachment device 100 allows lapel pins and pin back buttons to be worn on necklaces or suspended using the integrated eye screw feature. The magnetic attachment device 100 is also reusable, allowing for repeated attachment and removal without wear or degradation.

[0034] The magnetic attachment device 100 provides a practical solution to prevent clothing damage commonly associated with traditional pin closures. By utilizing discreet magnets in place of conventional pin fasteners, the magnetic attachment device 100 enhances both convenience and preservation of fabrics. Additionally, the magnetic attachment device 100 expands the functional applications of lapel pins and pin back buttons, enabling their display in novel ways, such as being worn as jewelry or secured to ferromagnetic surfaces.

[0035] In one aspect, the magnetic attachment device 100 may be provided as a kit comprising the cylindrical body 4 and the base 10. The kit may further include one or more optional components, such as the set screw 7 and / or the eye screw 6, enabling a user to assemble and configure the magnetic attachment device 100 for their desired application. The kit components may be provided together to facilitate secure attachment of ornamental items to non-conductive materials, ferromagnetic surfaces, or for use as jewelry.

[0036] “Comprise” and variations, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. “A”, “an,” and “the” and similar referents used herein are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural unless their usage in context indicates otherwise. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation or embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or implementations. Likewise, “embodiments” does not require that all embodiments include the discussed feature, advantage or mode of operation.

[0037] “Aspects” do not require that all aspects of the disclosure include the discussed features, advantages, or modes of operation. “Coupled” is used herein to means the direct or indirect coupling between two objects. For example, if object A physically touches or couples to object B, and object B touches or couples to object C, then objects A and C may still be considered coupled to one another, even if they do not directly physically touch each other.

[0038] One or more of the components and functions illustrated in the FIGS. may be rearranged and / or combined into a single component or embodied in several components without departing from the invention. Additional elements or components may also be added without departing from the invention. Additionally, the features described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, as a business method, and / or combination thereof.

[0039] While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention is not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0019]The features, nature, and advantages of the present aspects may become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout.

Terms

[0020]The term “clothing” may refer to any fabric-based garment or accessory that the magnetic attachment device can be used on or in connection with, including but not limited to shirts, jackets, blouses, coats, hats, scarves, ties, uniforms, costumes, and similar articles made from cloth or other thin, flexible, and non-conductive materials. Additionally, the device may be used with other items beyond traditional clothing, such as bags, backpacks, lanyards, fabric-based display panels, curtains, or decorative fabrics. The magnetic attachment device is further compatible with any thin material capable of allowing magnetic attraction, including synthetic fabrics, natural fibers, and composite materials, provided they do not interf...

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 USC § 119 to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 777,395 entitled MAGNETIC ATTACHMENT DEVICE filed Mar. 25, 2025, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a magnetic attachment device for lapel pins and pin back buttons that mitigate damage caused to clothing.BACKGROUND

[0003] The use of lapel pins and pin back buttons requires puncturing the garments to which they are to be attached, and repeated use of lapel pins and pin back buttons creates visible holes and damage to garments, limiting the number of times a lapel pin or pin back button can be attached and removed from the same garment. Lapel pins and pin back buttons can only be used with materials that can be punctured, such as cloth or paper. Therefore, hard materials, such as metal and plastic surfaces, cannot be used with lapel pins and pin back buttons.

[0004] In view of the above, what is needed is a magnetic attachment device configured to securely hold ornamental items such as lapel pins and pin back buttons without causing damage to clothing or other materials.

[0005] While magnetic pin converters are known in the art, existing solutions fail to accommodate both lapel pin posts and pin back button pins within a single device. Moreover, known magnetic converters do not incorporate an eye screw feature enabling the ornamental item to be worn as jewelry, nor do they provide a unified mechanism for securing ornamental items to ferromagnetic surfaces. Accordingly, a need exists for an integrated magnetic attachment device capable of accommodating multiple pin types and expanding the display versatility of ornamental items beyond traditional garment attachment.SUMMARY

[0006] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more implementations in order to provide a basic understanding of some implementations. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated implementations and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all implementations nor delineate the scope of any or all implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more implementations in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a magnetic attachment device configured to securely hold ornamental items such as lapel pins and pin back buttons without causing damage to clothing or other materials. The device comprises a cylindrical body defining a cavity for receiving a strong, rare-earth magnet. Integrated within the cylindrical body are multiple tubular channels designed to accommodate various attachment mechanisms, including channels dimensioned to receive the pin of a lapel pin, pin back button pins, a set screw for securing pins, and an eye screw for additional suspension functionality.

[0008] A corresponding base component includes a flat cylindrical body containing a magnet of opposing polarity, enabling magnetic attachment to the cylindrical body through thin, non-conductive materials such as fabric. The opposing magnetic forces securely fasten the ornamental items without the need to puncture the material.

[0009] Furthermore, the device expands the utility of lapel pins and pin back buttons by allowing them to be displayed in novel ways, such as on ferromagnetic surfaces or worn as jewelry via the integrated eye screw. The magnetic attachment device is reusable, easy to operate, and designed to preserve the integrity of both the attached decorative items and the surfaces to which they are affixed.

[0010] The present disclosure also relates to a kit for securing ornamental items, comprising the cylindrical body and the base as described herein. The kit may further include at least one of a set screw configured to secure an ornamental item within the body, or an eye screw configured to be received within a tubular channel of the body to enable the device to be worn as a necklace or suspended from an external structure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] In the following description, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a left-side exploded view of a magnetic attachment device.

[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates a right-side exploded view of the magnetic attachment device.

[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a right-side perspective view of the magnetic attachment device.

[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a bottom, right-side perspective view of the magnetic attachment device.

[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates the magnetic attachment device applied to a jacket.

[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates the magnetic attachment device hanging from a necklace.

[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates the magnetic attachment device used on a ferromagnetic surface.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The features, nature, and advantages of the present aspects may become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout.Terms

[0020] The term “clothing” may refer to any fabric-based garment or accessory that the magnetic attachment device can be used on or in connection with, including but not limited to shirts, jackets, blouses, coats, hats, scarves, ties, uniforms, costumes, and similar articles made from cloth or other thin, flexible, and non-conductive materials. Additionally, the device may be used with other items beyond traditional clothing, such as bags, backpacks, lanyards, fabric-based display panels, curtains, or decorative fabrics. The magnetic attachment device is further compatible with any thin material capable of allowing magnetic attraction, including synthetic fabrics, natural fibers, and composite materials, provided they do not interfere with the magnetic function.

[0021] The term “accessory” includes, but is not limited to bags, backpacks, purses, lanyards, and fabric belts, where traditional pin closures might damage the material.

[0022] The term “display surface” includes, but is not limited to, fabric-based display panels, bulletin boards, curtains, banners, or decorative fabrics used in exhibitions, trade shows, or retail environments.

[0023] The term “ornamental items” include, but are not limited to, lapel pins, pin back buttons, brooches, badges, medallions, charms, pendants, emblems, decorative buttons, or any similar items designed for attachment to clothing, accessories, or display surfaces.

[0024] The term “magnet” may refer to a strong, rare-earth magnet, a neodymium magnet, a samarium-cobalt magnet, or any other permanent magnet material capable of producing sufficient magnetic force to securely attach the cylindrical body and base through thin, non-conductive materials.Overview

[0025] Generally speaking, the present disclosure is directed towards a magnetic attachment device that provides a versatile and non-invasive solution for securing decorative items such as lapel pins and pin back buttons. The magnetic attachment device comprises a cylindrical body containing a cavity configured to house a magnet, such as a strong, rare-earth magnet. Various tubular channels are integrated into the cylindrical body to accommodate different attachment mechanisms, including, but not limited to, lapel pin posts, pin back button pins, set screws, and an optional eye screw for expanded functionality.

[0026] A complementary base component, featuring a flat cylindrical structure with an embedded magnet of opposing polarity, is used in conjunction with the cylindrical body. This magnetic interaction allows the magnetic attachment device to securely attach through thin materials such as garments or non-conductive substrates without puncturing or damaging the material.

[0027] Additionally, the magnetic attachment device is designed to extend the display capabilities of lapel pins and pin back buttons beyond traditional use. It permits attachment to ferromagnetic surfaces and enables ornamental items to be worn as jewelry, such as necklaces, through the integrated eye screw feature. The magnetic attachment device is reusable, easy to operate, and preserves the integrity of both the attached items and the materials to which they are secured.Magnetic Attachment Device

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates a left-side exploded view of a magnetic attachment device 100. FIG. 2 illustrates a right-side exploded view of the magnetic attachment device 100. FIG. 3 illustrates a right-side perspective view of the magnetic attachment device 100. FIG. 4 illustrates a bottom, right-side perspective view of the magnetic attachment device 100. FIG. 5 illustrates the magnetic attachment device 100 applied to a jacket. FIG. 6 illustrates the magnetic attachment device 100 hanging from a necklace. FIG. 7 illustrates the magnetic attachment device 100 used on a ferromagnetic surface. The following discussion refers interchangeably to FIGS. 1-7.

[0029] The magnetic attachment device 100 comprises a cylindrical body 4 and a base 10 detachably mounted to the cylindrical body 4. According to one aspect, the cylindrical body 4 comprises a cylinder defining a cavity configured to receive a magnet 8, such as a strong, rare-earth magnet. According to one aspect, the cylinder may be made from plastic, or any other material known in the art. In one embodiment, the cylindrical body 4 is formed from a non-ferromagnetic material, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), nylon, polycarbonate, aluminum, or stainless steel, so as not to interfere with the magnetic field generated by the magnet 8. The magnet 8 is retained within the cavity of the cylindrical body 4 by a press fit, adhesive bonding, or a threaded retention ring, or any combination thereof, as known in the art. In one embodiment, the magnet 8 is retained within the cylindrical body 4 by a press fit that allows the magnet 8 to be removed and replaced when desired.

[0030] A first tubular channel 1 extends perpendicularly through the flat surface of the cylinder along its entire length, the channel being dimensioned to receive the pin of a lapel pin. A second tubular channel 2 houses a set screw 7, which is configured to secure the lapel pin to the cylindrical body 4, the set screw being operable using a 0.05-inch Allen wrench, for example. A third tubular channel 3a, 3b extends through the cylindrical body and is dimensioned to receive the pin of a pin back button, allowing the attachment and securement of pin back buttons. A fourth tubular channel 5 is configured to receive an eye screw 6, enabling the magnetic attachment device 100 to be worn as a necklace or suspended via the loop of the eye screw. In one embodiment, the first tubular channel 1 has an inner diameter in the range of approximately 1.3 mm to 1.5 mm to accommodate standard lapel pin posts. The third tubular channel 3a, 3b has an inner diameter in the range of approximately 1.2 mm to 1.4 mm to accommodate standard pin back button pins. When a pin back button pin is inserted into the third tubular channel 3a, 3b, the pin back button's own clasp mechanism retains the pin within the third tubular channel 3a, 3b, providing a secure attachment without the need for an additional set screw. In one embodiment, the magnets 8 and 9 collectively provide a holding force of at least approximately 2 pounds (approximately 0.9 kg) when the cylindrical body 4 and base 10 are separated by a fabric layer having a thickness of up to approximately 5 mm, ensuring secure retention of the ornamental item during normal wear.

[0031] The base 10 comprises a flat cylindrical body defining a cavity configured to receive a magnet 9, such as a strong, rare-earth magnet 9. The base 10 is configured to magnetically attach to the cylindrical body 4 through a thin cloth or other non-conductive material.

[0032] The magnetic attachment device 100 is configured to secure lapel pins and pin back buttons to the cylindrical body 4. The exposed magnet surfaces 8 and 9 of the cylinder 4 and base 10 possess opposing polarities, such that when the magnetic attachment device 100 is worn, the magnetic attraction secures the attached lapel pin or pin back button to a garment or other thin, non-conductive material (see FIG. 5). Additionally, when used in conjunction with the eye screw 6, the magnetic attachment device 100 allows lapel pins and pin back buttons to be worn as a necklace (see FIG. 6) or suspended via the loop of the eye screw. The magnetic attachment device 100 further enables lapel pins and pin back buttons to be magnetically secured to ferromagnetic surfaces (see FIG. 7). It will be understood that in the necklace use configuration illustrated in FIG. 6, and in the ferromagnetic surface use configuration illustrated in FIG. 7, the base 10 is not required; the cylindrical body 4 operates independently in these configurations, with the magnet 8 providing direct magnetic attraction to the ferromagnetic surface, or with the eye screw 6 enabling suspension from an external structure such as a necklace chain or cord.

[0033] The magnetic attachment device 100 provides a non-invasive means of securing lapel pins and pin back buttons without puncturing or damaging clothing, garments, or other thin materials. It further enhances the functionality of lapel pins and pin back buttons by enabling their display on hard surfaces that cannot be pierced by pins. Additionally, the magnetic attachment device 100 allows lapel pins and pin back buttons to be worn on necklaces or suspended using the integrated eye screw feature. The magnetic attachment device 100 is also reusable, allowing for repeated attachment and removal without wear or degradation.

[0034] The magnetic attachment device 100 provides a practical solution to prevent clothing damage commonly associated with traditional pin closures. By utilizing discreet magnets in place of conventional pin fasteners, the magnetic attachment device 100 enhances both convenience and preservation of fabrics. Additionally, the magnetic attachment device 100 expands the functional applications of lapel pins and pin back buttons, enabling their display in novel ways, such as being worn as jewelry or secured to ferromagnetic surfaces.

[0035] In one aspect, the magnetic attachment device 100 may be provided as a kit comprising the cylindrical body 4 and the base 10. The kit may further include one or more optional components, such as the set screw 7 and / or the eye screw 6, enabling a user to assemble and configure the magnetic attachment device 100 for their desired application. The kit components may be provided together to facilitate secure attachment of ornamental items to non-conductive materials, ferromagnetic surfaces, or for use as jewelry.

[0036] “Comprise” and variations, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. “A”, “an,” and “the” and similar referents used herein are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural unless their usage in context indicates otherwise. The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation or embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or implementations. Likewise, “embodiments” does not require that all embodiments include the discussed feature, advantage or mode of operation.

[0037] “Aspects” do not require that all aspects of the disclosure include the discussed features, advantages, or modes of operation. “Coupled” is used herein to means the direct or indirect coupling between two objects. For example, if object A physically touches or couples to object B, and object B touches or couples to object C, then objects A and C may still be considered coupled to one another, even if they do not directly physically touch each other.

[0038] One or more of the components and functions illustrated in the FIGS. may be rearranged and / or combined into a single component or embodied in several components without departing from the invention. Additional elements or components may also be added without departing from the invention. Additionally, the features described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, as a business method, and / or combination thereof.

[0039] While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention is not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0019]The features, nature, and advantages of the present aspects may become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout.

Terms

[0020]The term “clothing” may refer to any fabric-based garment or accessory that the magnetic attachment device can be used on or in connection with, including but not limited to shirts, jackets, blouses, coats, hats, scarves, ties, uniforms, costumes, and similar articles made from cloth or other thin, flexible, and non-conductive materials. Additionally, the device may be used with other items beyond traditional clothing, such as bags, backpacks, lanyards, fabric-based display panels, curtains, or decorative fabrics. The magnetic attachment device is further compatible with any thin material capable of allowing magnetic attraction, including synthetic fabrics, natural fibers, and composite materials, provided they do not interf...

Claims

1. A magnetic attachment device, comprising:a body defining a cavity configured to receive a first magnet; anda base defining a cavity configured to receive a second magnet of opposing polarity to the first magnet, wherein the base is magnetically attachable to the body through a non-conductive material,wherein the body further comprises at least one tubular channel configured to receive a pin of an ornamental item.

2. The magnetic attachment device of claim 1, wherein the at least one tubular channel comprises:a first tubular channel configured to receive a pin of a lapel pin;a second tubular channel configured to house a set screw for securing the lapel pin;a third tubular channel extending through the cylindrical body and configured to receive the pin of a pin back button; anda fourth tubular channel configured to receive an eye screw.

3. The magnetic attachment device of claim 2, wherein the third tubular channel extends entirely through the body, defining openings on opposing sides of the body.

4. The magnetic attachment device of claim 1, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are strong, rare-earth magnets.

5. The magnetic attachment device of claim 4, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are neodymium magnets.

6. The magnetic attachment device of claim 4, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are samarium-cobalt magnets.

7. The magnetic attachment device of claim 1, wherein the body is formed from a non-ferromagnetic material.

8. The magnetic attachment device of claim 7, wherein the non-ferromagnetic material is selected from the group consisting of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), nylon, polycarbonate, aluminum, and stainless steel.

9. The magnetic attachment device of claim 1, wherein the first magnet is retained within the cavity of the body by at least one of a press fit, adhesive bonding, or a threaded retention ring.

10. The magnetic attachment device of claim 9, wherein the first magnet is removably retained within the cavity by a press fit, enabling removal and replacement of the first magnet.

11. The magnetic attachment device of claim 2, wherein the set screw is operable using a 0.05-inch Allen wrench.

12. The magnetic attachment device of claim 2, wherein the eye screw enables the magnetic attachment device to be worn as a necklace or suspended from an external structure.

13. The magnetic attachment device of claim 2, wherein the first tubular channel has an inner diameter in a range of approximately 1.3 mm to 1.5 mm.

14. The magnetic attachment device of claim 2, wherein the third tubular channel has an inner diameter in a range of approximately 1.2 mm to 1.4 mm.

15. The magnetic attachment device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to secure ornamental items to ferromagnetic surfaces via magnetic attraction.

16. The magnetic attachment device of claim 1, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet collectively provide a holding force of at least approximately 2 pounds when the body and the base are separated by a non-conductive material having a thickness of up to approximately 5 mm.

17. A method of securing an ornamental item to a surface without puncturing the surface, comprising:inserting a pin of an ornamental item into a tubular channel of a body housing a first magnet;positioning a base housing a second magnet of opposing polarity on an opposing side of a non-conductive material from the body; andsecuring the ornamental item to the surface via magnetic attraction between the first magnet and the second magnet without puncturing or damaging the non-conductive material.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising one or more of: securing the pin within the tubular channel using a set screw; inserting an eye screw into a tubular channel of the body and suspending the ornamental item from an external structure via a loop of the eye screw; or positioning the body directly against a ferromagnetic surface such that the first magnet magnetically secures the body and ornamental item to the ferromagnetic surface without use of the base.

19. A kit for securing ornamental items, comprising:a cylindrical body defining a cavity configured to receive a first magnet and comprising at least one tubular channel configured to receive a pin of an ornamental item;a base comprising a flat cylindrical body defining a cavity configured to receive a second magnet of opposing polarity to the first magnet, the base being magnetically attachable to the cylindrical body through a non-conductive material.

20. The kit of claim 19, further comprising at least one of: a set screw configured to secure an ornamental item within the body, or an eye screw configured to be received within a tubular channel of the body to enable the kit to be worn as a necklace or suspended from an external structure.

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