Patent application title: ADJUSTABLE SHIRT SLEEVE
Inventors:
IPC8 Class: AA41D2710FI
USPC Class:
Class name:
Publication date: 2022-01-20
Patent application number: 20220015480
Abstract:
A sleeve diameter adjustment system may comprise: a slit through the
sleeve body; a first sleeve flap; a second sleeve flap, wherein the first
sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap are separated by the slit; at
least two columns of first fasteners coupled to the first sleeve flap
spanning between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end; a
column of second fasteners coupled to the second sleeve flap spanning
between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein the
second fasteners are complementary to the first fasteners such that a
second fastener may couple to a first fastener, which results in the
first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap being coupled. The sleeve
diameter may be different depending on whether a second fastener is
coupled to a first fastener in a first column or a second column of first
fasteners.Claims:
1. A shirt, comprising: a sleeve spanning along an axis, comprising: a
sleeve proximal end; a sleeve distal end opposite the sleeve proximal
end; a sleeve body spanning along the axis between the sleeve proximal
end and the sleeve distal end at least partially enclosing a sleeve void
configured to receive an arm of a wearer therethrough; and a sleeve
diameter adjustment system, comprising: a slit through the sleeve body
spanning at least a portion of a length between the sleeve proximal end
and the sleeve distal end, wherein the slit comprises a slit proximal end
proximate the sleeve proximal end and a slit distal end proximate the
sleeve distal end; a first sleeve flap disposed on a first
circumferential end of the sleeve body; a second sleeve flap disposed on
a second circumferential end of the sleeve body, wherein the first sleeve
flap and the second sleeve flap are separated by the slit; at least two
columns of first fasteners coupled to the first sleeve flap spanning at
least partially between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal
end, wherein a first column of the at least two columns of first
fasteners is disposed closer to the slit than a second column of the at
least two columns of fasteners; a column of second fasteners coupled to
the second sleeve flap spanning at least partially between the sleeve
proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein the second fasteners are
complementary to the first fasteners such that each of the second
fasteners is configured to couple to a respective at least one of the
first fasteners, which results in the first sleeve flap and the second
sleeve flap being coupled, wherein, a diameter of at least a portion of
the sleeve void is smaller when a second fastener of the column of second
fasteners is coupled to a first fastener in the second column of first
fasteners than when the second fastener is coupled to a first fastener in
the first column of first fasteners, wherein the diameter adjustment
system is disposed on a bottom portion of the sleeve, such that the slit
proximal end is disposed at least one of in or proximate to an armpit
portion of the sleeve.
2. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the armpit portion comprises a bottom circumferential third of the sleeve, the bottom circumferential third being furthest from a shoulder portion of a torso portion of the shirt coupled to the sleeve proximal end.
3. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the first column of first fasteners is parallel with the second column of first fasteners.
4. The shirt of claim 2, wherein a sleeve flap proximal edge of at least one of the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap is coupled to the torso portion of the shirt, wherein the flap proximal edge is a portion of the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap that is most proximate the torso portion of the shirt.
5. The shirt of claim 2, wherein at least one of a first sleeve flap proximal edge of the first sleeve flap and a second sleeve flap proximal edge of the second sleeve flap is separate from the torso portion of the shirt, wherein the first sleeve flap proximal edge is a portion of the first sleeve flap that is most proximate the torso portion, and the second sleeve flap proximal edge is a portion of the second sleeve flap that is most proximate the torso portion.
6. The shirt of claim 1, wherein the first column of first fasteners is disposed along a first line, and the second column of first fasteners is disposed along a second line, wherein the first line and the second line are nonparallel.
7. The shirt of claim 6, wherein the first line and the second line converge at a convergence point on the sleeve.
8. The shirt of claim 7, wherein a convergence first fastener is disposed on the convergence point, wherein the convergence first fastener is the first fastener in the first column and the second column of the at least two columns of first fasteners most proximate to the sleeve proximal end.
9. The shirt of claim 7, wherein the convergence point is without a first fastener disposed thereon.
10. The shirt of claim 7, wherein the first fasteners in the first column and the second column of the at least two columns of first fasteners are disposed in a plurality of first sleeve flap fastener rows spanning in a circumferential direction at least partially along the sleeve body from a first sleeve flap inner edge, wherein one first fastener from each of the first column and the second column is disposed in each of the first sleeve flap fastener rows.
11. The shirt of claim 10, wherein each of the second fasteners on the second sleeve flap is disposed in a position along the second sleeve flap between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end complementary to a position of a complementary first sleeve flap fastener row, such that each second fastener is configured to couple to a first fastener in the complementary first sleeve flap fastener row.
12. The shirt of claim 10, wherein the at least two columns of first fasteners further comprises a third column disposed along a third line that is nonparallel with the first line and the second line, wherein the third line converges with the first line and the second line at the convergence point.
13. The shirt of claim 12, wherein a first sleeve flap fastener row, of the plurality of first sleeve flap fastener rows, adjacent to the convergence point comprises fewer of the first fasteners therein than of a number of columns in the at least two columns, such that at least two columns of the at least two columns share a first fastener in the first sleeve flap fastener row adjacent to the convergence point.
14. The shirt of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first fasteners and the second fasteners are disposed on an inner surface of the sleeve body.
15. The shirt of claim 14, wherein at least one of the first fasteners and the second fasteners are disposed at least one of on an outer surface of the sleeve body or through the sleeve body.
16. A shirt sleeve configured to be coupled to a shirt torso portion, comprising: a sleeve proximal end configured to be coupled to the shirt torso portion; a sleeve distal end opposite the sleeve proximal end; a sleeve body spanning along an axis between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end at least partially enclosing a sleeve void configured to receive an arm of a wearer therethrough; and a sleeve diameter adjustment system, comprising: a slit through the sleeve body spanning at least a portion of a length between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein the slit comprises a slit proximal end proximate the sleeve proximal end and a slit distal end proximate the sleeve distal end; a first sleeve flap disposed on a first circumferential end of the sleeve body; a second sleeve flap disposed on a second circumferential end of the sleeve body, wherein the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap are separated by the slit; at least two columns of first fasteners coupled to the first sleeve flap spanning at least partially between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein a first column of the at least two columns of first fasteners is disposed closer to the slit than a second column of the at least two columns of fasteners; a column of second fasteners coupled to the second sleeve flap spanning at least partially between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein the second fasteners are complementary to the first fasteners such that each of the second fasteners is configured to couple to a respective at least one of the first fasteners, which results in the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap being coupled, wherein, a diameter of at least a portion of the sleeve void is smaller when a second fastener of the column of second fasteners is coupled to a first fastener in the second column of first fasteners than when the second fastener is coupled to a first fastener in the first column of first fasteners, wherein the diameter adjustment system is disposed on a bottom portion of the sleeve, such that the slit proximal end is disposed at least one of in or proximate to an armpit portion of the sleeve.
17. The sleeve of claim 16, wherein the first column of first fasteners is parallel with the second column of first fasteners.
18. The sleeve of claim 16, wherein the first column of first fasteners is disposed along a first line, and the second column of first fasteners is disposed along a second line, wherein the first line and the second line are nonparallel, wherein the first line and the second line converge at a convergence point on the sleeve.
19. The sleeve of claim 16, wherein the first fasteners in the first column and the second column are disposed in a plurality of first sleeve flap fastener rows spanning in a circumferential direction along at least a portion the sleeve body from a first sleeve flap inner edge, wherein one first fastener from each of the first column and the second column is disposed in each of the first sleeve flap fastener rows.
20. A shirt, comprising: a torso portion; and a sleeve spanning along an axis, comprising: a sleeve proximal end coupled to the torso portion of the shirt; a sleeve distal end opposite the sleeve proximal end; a sleeve body spanning along the axis between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end at least partially enclosing a sleeve void configured to receive an arm of a wearer therethrough; and a sleeve diameter adjustment system, comprising: a slit through the sleeve body spanning at least a portion of a length between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein the slit comprises a slit proximal end proximate the sleeve proximal end and a slit distal end proximate the sleeve distal end; a first sleeve flap disposed on a first circumferential end of the sleeve body; a second sleeve flap disposed on a second circumferential end of the sleeve body, wherein the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap are separated by the slit; and/or a tensioning device coupled to the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap across the slit, wherein the tensioning device is configured to adjust the diameter of the sleeve void by adjusting at least one of a width of the slit or an amount of overlap between the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap.
Description:
FIELD
[0001] This application generally relates to clothing articles, and more specifically, to shirts having adjustable sleeves.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Finding clothing that fits the wearer continues to be a challenge, especially with the growing prevalence of remote shopping. Remote shopping causes a consumer to purchase items without having physically seen the item, or in the case of clothing, without trying on a clothing item. Accordingly, clothing articles allowing convenient dimensional adjustment by the wearer would be beneficial to achieve a desired fit on the wearer, and mitigate against wasteful shipping back and forth of non-fitting clothing.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] The present disclosure relates to a shirt having an adjustable sleeve. In various embodiments, a shirt may comprise a sleeve spanning along an axis. The sleeve may comprise: a sleeve proximal end; a sleeve distal end opposite the sleeve proximal end; a sleeve body spanning along the axis between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end at least partially enclosing a sleeve void configured to receive an arm of a wearer therethrough; and a sleeve diameter adjustment system. The sleeve diameter adjustment system may comprise: a slit through the sleeve body spanning at least a portion of a length between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein the slit comprises a slit proximal end proximate the sleeve proximal end and a slit distal end proximate the sleeve distal end; a first sleeve flap disposed on a first circumferential end of the sleeve body; a second sleeve flap disposed on a second circumferential end of the sleeve body, wherein the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap are separated by the slit; at least two columns of first fasteners coupled to the first sleeve flap spanning at least partially between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein a first column of the at least two columns of first fasteners is disposed closer to the slit than a second column of the at least two columns of fasteners; a column of second fasteners coupled to the second sleeve flap spanning at least partially between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein the second fasteners are complementary to the first fasteners such that each of the second fasteners is configured to couple to a respective at least one of the first fasteners, which results in the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap being coupled. In various embodiments, a diameter of at least a portion of the sleeve void is smaller when a second fastener of the column of second fasteners is coupled to a first fastener in the second column of first fasteners than when the second fastener is coupled to a first fastener in the first column of first fasteners. In various embodiments, the diameter adjustment system may be disposed on a bottom portion of the sleeve, such that the slit proximal end is disposed at least one of in or proximate to an armpit portion of the sleeve. In various embodiments, the armpit portion may comprise a bottom circumferential third of the sleeve. The bottom circumferential third may be furthest from a shoulder portion of a torso portion of the shirt coupled to the sleeve proximal end.
[0004] In various embodiments, the first column of first fasteners may be parallel with the second column of first fasteners. In various embodiments, a sleeve flap proximal edge of at least one of the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap may be coupled to the torso portion of the shirt. The flap proximal edge may be a portion of the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap that is most proximate the torso portion of the shirt. In various embodiments, at least one of a first sleeve flap proximal edge of the first sleeve flap and a second sleeve flap proximal edge of the second sleeve flap may be separate from the torso portion of the shirt. The first sleeve flap proximal edge may be a portion of the first sleeve flap that is most proximate the torso portion. The second sleeve flap proximal edge may be a portion of the second sleeve flap that is most proximate the torso portion.
[0005] In various embodiments, the first column of first fasteners may be disposed along a first line, and the second column of first fasteners may be disposed along a second line. The first line and the second line may be nonparallel. In various embodiments, the first line and the second line may converge at a convergence point on the sleeve. In various embodiments, a convergence first fastener may be disposed on the convergence point. The convergence first fastener may be the first fastener in the first column and the second column of the at least two columns of first fasteners most proximate to the sleeve proximal end. In various embodiments, the convergence point may be without a first fastener disposed thereon.
[0006] In various embodiments, the first fasteners in the first column and the second column of the at least two columns of first fasteners may be disposed in a plurality of first sleeve flap fastener rows spanning in a circumferential direction along at least a portion of the sleeve body from a first sleeve flap inner edge. One first fastener from each of the first column and the second column may be disposed in each of the first sleeve flap fastener rows. In various embodiments, each of the second fasteners on the second sleeve flap may be disposed in a position along the second sleeve flap between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end complementary to a position of a complementary first sleeve flap fastener row, such that each second fastener may be configured to couple to a first fastener in the complementary first sleeve flap fastener row. In various embodiments, the at least two columns of first fasteners further comprises a third column disposed along a third line that may be nonparallel with the first line and the second line. The third line may converge with the first line and the second line at the convergence point. In various embodiments, a first sleeve flap fastener row, of the plurality of first sleeve flap fastener rows, adjacent to the convergence point may comprise fewer of the first fasteners therein than of a number of columns in the at least two columns, such that at least two columns of the at least two columns may share a first fastener in the first sleeve flap fastener row adjacent to the convergence point.
[0007] In various embodiments, the first fasteners and/or the second fasteners may be disposed on an inner surface of the sleeve body. In various embodiments, the first fasteners and/or the second fasteners may be disposed at least one of on an outer surface of the sleeve body or through the sleeve body.
[0008] In various embodiments, a sleeve diameter adjustment system may comprise a slit through the sleeve body spanning at least a portion of a length between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, wherein the slit comprises a slit proximal end proximate the sleeve proximal end and a slit distal end proximate the sleeve distal end; a first sleeve flap disposed on a first circumferential end of the sleeve body; a second sleeve flap disposed on a second circumferential end of the sleeve body, wherein the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap are separated by the slit; and/or a tensioning device coupled to the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap across the slit, wherein the tensioning device is configured to adjust the diameter of the sleeve void by adjusting at least one of a width of the slit or an amount of overlap between the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The subject matter of the present disclosure is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. A more complete understanding of the present disclosure, however, may best be obtained by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the drawing figures. Elements with like element numbering throughout the figures are intended to be the same.
[0010] FIG. 1A illustrates a shirt having a sleeve with a sleeve diameter adjustment system, in accordance with various embodiments;
[0011] FIG. 1B illustrates a close-up view of a shirt sleeve having a sleeve diameter adjustment system, in accordance with various embodiments;
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a close-up view of a shirt sleeve having a sleeve diameter adjustment system, in accordance with various embodiments;
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a close-up view of a shirt sleeve having a sleeve diameter adjustment system, in accordance with various embodiments;
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up view of a shirt sleeve having a sleeve diameter adjustment system, in accordance with various embodiments;
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates a close-up view of a shirt sleeve having a sleeve diameter adjustment system, in accordance with various embodiments;
[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates a close-up view of a shirt sleeve having a sleeve diameter adjustment system, in accordance with various embodiments; and
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates a close-up view of a shirt sleeve having a sleeve diameter adjustment system, in accordance with various embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] All ranges may include the upper and lower values, and all ranges and ratio limits disclosed herein may be combined. It is to be understood that unless specifically stated otherwise, references to "a," "an," and/or "the" may include one or more than one and that reference to an item in the singular may also include the item in the plural.
[0019] The detailed description of various embodiments herein makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which show various embodiments by way of illustration. While these various embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical, chemical, and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not necessarily limited to the order presented. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step may include a singular component or step. Also, any reference to attached, fixed, connected, or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full, and/or any other possible attachment option. Additionally, any reference to without contact (or similar phrases) may also include reduced contact or minimal contact.
[0020] As used herein, the term "diameter" refers to the cross-sectional length of a shirt sleeve from one side of the shirt sleeve to another side, passing through a middle point of the shirt sleeve (similar to the diameter of a circle). Thus, the term "diameter" (or other related terms, such as "circumference") should not be interpreted as limiting the cross-sectional shape of a sleeve to a circle, as the sleeve shape may comprise any suitable shape, including elliptical and irregular geometries.
[0021] With reference to FIG. 1A, in various embodiments, a shirt (e.g., shirt 10) may comprise a torso portion (e.g., torso portion 70), a neck portion (e.g., neck portion 40), and a sleeve (e.g., sleeve 50A) coupled to the torso portion. A proximal end of the sleeve (e.g., sleeve proximal end 52) may be coupled to the torso portion at a torso sleeve edge (e.g., edge 62). A distal end of the sleeve (e.g., sleeve distal end 54) may be opposite the sleeve proximal end along an axis (e.g., axis A shown in FIG. 4).
[0022] In various embodiments, the sleeve having a system to adjust the diameter and/or circumference of the sleeve (e.g., sleeve diameter adjustment system 100A). That is, the shirt sleeve may be adjusted such that the sleeve may be looser or tighter around a wearer's arm along at least a portion of the sleeve. The wearer's arm may be disposed through a sleeve void (e.g., sleeve void 55), which may be at least partially enclosed by the sleeve body (e.g., sleeve body 57) and/or the clothing material thereof, and exit the sleeve through a sleeve opening defined by a sleeve distal edge (e.g., sleeve distal edge 56). The sleeve opening may be in fluid communication with the sleeve void. The sleeve, sleeve body, and/or sleeve void may span substantially along an axis (e.g., axis A shown in FIG. 4).
[0023] In various embodiments, the sleeve diameter adjustment system for adjusting the diameter of the sleeve may comprise a slit along the sleeve body spanning at least a portion of the length between a sleeve proximal end and a sleeve distal end. For example, as depicted in FIG. 1A, sleeve diameter adjustment system 100A may comprise a slit 102 disposed in (i.e., cut into) sleeve body 57 spanning between sleeve proximal end 52 and sleeve distal end 54. The slit may comprise and span between a slit proximal end (disposed proximate, or more proximate, the sleeve proximal end) and a slit distal end (disposed proximate, or more proximate, the sleeve distal end). The slit in the sleeve body may form two sleeve flaps (e.g., first sleeve flap 110A and second sleeve flap 120A) separated by the slit. The sleeve flaps may be disposed on circumferential ends of the sleeve body (e.g., which may be separated by the slit and/or overlap to couple to one another). The circumferential ends may be proximate or adjacent to one another on the circumference of the sleeve body. The first and second sleeve flaps may be configured to couple to one another to secure the sleeve body around the wearer's arm and/or enclose the sleeve void within the sleeve body (e.g., including the first and second sleeve flaps).
[0024] In various embodiments, each flap on the sleeve (on either slide of the sleeve slit) may comprise a fastener. For example, a first fastener may be coupled to the first sleeve flap and a second fastener may be coupled to the second sleeve flap. The first fastener may be complementary to the second fastener such that the first fastener may engage with and/or couple to the second fastener, thus coupling the first and second sleeve flaps.
[0025] In various embodiments, with reference to FIG. 2, a sleeve 250 may comprise a sleeve diameter adjustment system (e.g., sleeve diameter adjustment system 200) comprising a tensioning device (e.g., tensioning device 225) coupled to the first sleeve flap 210 and second sleeve flap 220. The tensioning device may be configured to position the first sleeve flap 210 and second sleeve flap 220 in a desired position relative to one another to achieve a desired diameter of the sleeve and/or sleeve void. For example, by adjusting the tensioning device, the slit between first sleeve flap 210 and second sleeve flap 220 may be decreased in width to decrease the sleeve diameter and/or increased in width to increase the sleeve diameter (the slit width being the length of the slit separating the first and second sleeve flaps). Similarly, by adjusting the tensioning device, the first sleeve flap may be brought into contact with and/or overlap with the second sleeve flap, such that the slit width may be eliminated, to decrease the diameter of the sleeve. Even further, by adjusting the tensioning device, the amount of overlap between the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap may be changed to adjust the diameter of the sleeve. For example, to decrease the diameter of the sleeve, the amount of overlap between the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap may be increased by adjusting the tensioning device. To increase the diameter of the sleeve, the amount of overlap between the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap may be decreased by adjusting the tensioning device.
[0026] In various embodiments, the tensioning device may comprise a first portion coupled to the sleeve first sleeve flap and a second portion coupled to the sleeve second sleeve flap. The first portion and the second portion may be complementary to one another such that the first portion may couple to the second portion, and the position of the first portion relative to the second portion, while coupled together, may be adjusted. In various embodiments, the first portion and the second portion may be configured such that they do not decouple from one another. In various embodiments, the first portion and the second portion may be configured such that they may decouple and recouple with one another. The tensioning device may comprise a cable tie (i.e., zip tie) (as shown in FIG. 2), belt, and/or the like, allowing for adjustment of the diameter of the sleeve and/or sleeve void.
[0027] In various embodiments, the tensioning device may comprise a body that spans around the entire sleeve body at the sleeve distal end (e.g., near sleeve distal edge 56, and/or in or proximate a sleeve cuff), as illustrated by tensioning device 225 in FIG. 2. In such embodiments, the first portion of the tensioning device may be a first end of the tensioning device coupled to the first sleeve flap, and the second portion of the tensioning device may be a second end of the tensioning device coupled to the second sleeve flap. In various embodiments, the tensioning device may comprise a first portion and a second portion that are separate from one another. In such embodiments, the first portion of the tensioning device may be coupled to the sleeve first sleeve flap and span circumferentially around at least a portion of the sleeve body from the sleeve first sleeve flap, and the second portion of the tensioning device may be coupled to the sleeve first sleeve flap and span circumferentially around at least a portion of the sleeve body from the sleeve second sleeve flap.
[0028] In various embodiments, a sleeve diameter adjustment system may comprise more than one tensioning device to aid in adjusting the diameter of the sleeve. For example, multiple tensioning devices may be disposed across the slit between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end.
[0029] In various embodiments, the sleeve diameter adjustment system on a sleeve may comprise a column of first fasteners (i.e., multiple first fasteners disposed in a column) on the first sleeve flap (e.g., column 112A of first fasteners on first sleeve flap 110A), spanning at least a portion of the length between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end, and/or a column of second fasteners (i.e., multiple second fasteners disposed in a column) on the second sleeve flap (e.g., column 122A of second fasteners on second sleeve flap 120A), spanning at least a portion of the length between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end. The column of first fasteners may be disposed on the first sleeve flap proximate the slit and/or a first sleeve flap inner edge (e.g., first sleeve flap inner edge 118 shown in FIG. 1B). The column of second fasteners may be disposed on the second sleeve flap proximate the slit and/or a second sleeve flap inner edge (e.g., second sleeve flap inner edge 128 shown in FIG. 1B). Each of the first fasteners may be complementary to at least one of the second fasteners, and each of the second fasteners may be complementary to at least one of the first fasteners. Therefore, a first fastener in the column of first fasteners may couple to a second fastener in the column of second fasteners, coupling the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap. In various embodiments, more than one first fastener may couple to a second fastener, and/or more than one second fastener may couple to a first fastener. In various embodiments, each of the first fasteners may be disposed in a position along the first sleeve flap between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end that is complementary to a position of a second fastener in the column of second fasteners along the second sleeve flap between the sleeve proximal end and the sleeve distal end. Accordingly, one or more first fasteners in the column of first fasteners may be coupled to one or more second fasteners disposed in a complementary position(s) in the column of second fasteners.
[0030] In various embodiments, with additional reference to FIG. 1B, a sleeve diameter adjustment system on a sleeve (e.g., sleeve diameter adjustment system 100B on a sleeve 50B) may comprise multiple columns on at least one of the first sleeve flap or the second sleeve flap. For example, sleeve diameter adjustment system 100B on sleeve 50B may comprise a first sleeve flap 110B and a second sleeve flap 120B. Multiple columns of first fasteners may be coupled to first sleeve flap 110B. For example, first column 112B of first fasteners 114B and second column 112C of first fasteners 114C may be disposed in columns on first sleeve flap 110B spanning at least partially between sleeve proximal end 52 and sleeve distal end 54. In various embodiments, the fasteners in a fastener column may be arranged in a substantially linear pattern. In various embodiments, the fasteners in a column may be spaced from one another in any suitable arrangement such as substantially equidistant from one another, or unevenly spaced from one another.
[0031] In various embodiments, the fasteners on a sleeve flap may form at least one row of fasteners spanning from the sleeve flap inner edge into the sleeve body (e.g., in a circumferential direction). That is, the fasteners in each fastener column on a sleeve flap may be similarly spaced between the sleeve proximal end and sleeve distal end such that the fasteners in the fastener columns are aligned in fastener rows spanning from the flap inner edge into the sleeve body (e.g., in a circumferential direction). In other words, one or more fasteners of a first column of fasteners may each be aligned in a direction extending away from the sleeve flap inner edge with a respective fastener of a second column of fasteners, such that rows of fasteners are formed spanning from the sleeve flap inner edge. The rows of fasteners may be spanning substantially perpendicularly from the sleeve flap inner edge (where, "substantially" in this context means within 10, 20, or 30 degrees from perpendicular). For example, each of first fasteners 114B in first fastener column 112B may be aligned with a respective first fastener 114C in second fastener column 112C. Accordingly, fastener rows 116A-116C may be formed extending in a direction from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 into sleeve body 57. Fastener rows 116A-116C extend substantially perpendicularly from first sleeve flap inner edge 118. As another example, first fasteners 314 in FIG. 3 may be disposed in fastener columns 312A-312C. Within each fastener column 312A-312C, first fasteners 314 may be aligned with other first fasteners 314 in fastener columns 312A-312C such that fastener rows 316A-316D are formed extending in a direction from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 into sleeve body 57. As another example, first fasteners 414 in FIG. 4 may be disposed in fastener columns 412A-412B. Within each fastener column 412A-412B, first fasteners 414 may be aligned with other first fasteners 414 in fastener columns 412A-412B such that fastener rows 416A-416E are formed extending in a direction from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 into sleeve body 57. As yet another example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, first fasteners 514 may be disposed in fastener columns 512A-512C. Within each fastener column 512A-512C, first fasteners 514 may be aligned with other first fasteners 514 in fastener columns 512A-512C such that fastener rows 516A-516D are formed extending in a direction from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 into sleeve body 57.
[0032] In various embodiments, the fastener rows (or the lines upon which the fasteners may be disposed for each row) may be spaced equidistant from one another in a direction spanning from the sleeve proximal end to the sleeve distal end. For example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, fastener rows 516A-516D may be spaced substantially equidistant from one another in a direction spanning between sleeve proximal end 52 and sleeve distal end 54 (in this context, "substantially" means each subject distance is within 10% of the other relevant distances). In various embodiments, the fastener rows (or the lines upon which the fasteners may be disposed for each row) may be spaced from one another in inconsistent, increasing, or decreasing distances, to achieve desired options for securing the first sleeve flap to the second sleeve flap. For example, the distances between a first fastener row (the fastener row closest to the sleeve flap inner edge, e.g., first fastener row 516A) and the second fastener row (the next fastener row, e.g., second fastener row 516B) may be shorter or longer than the distance between the second fastener row and a third fastener row (e.g., third fastener row 516C). Such spacing may allow various levels of secure coupling between the first and second sleeve flaps (e.g., the more fastener rows between the sleeve proximal and distal ends, and/or the less space between such fastener rows, the more secure coupling between the first and second sleeve flaps may be). Also, the wearer may decide to forgo coupling of one or more complementary fasteners on the first and second sleeve flaps, for example, to loosen the sleeve, provide greater airflow into and through the sleeve, and/or the like. A greater number of fastener rows (and/or fasteners) between the sleeve proximal and distal ends allows the wearer to choose more combinations of possible fastener couplings to allow adequate coupling between the first and second sleeve flaps, while still forgoing one or more available fastener couplings.
[0033] As discussed herein, there may be fasteners on a second sleeve flap configured to engage the fasteners on the first sleeve flap. For example, with reference to FIG. 1B, second fasteners 124A-124C on second sleeve flap 120B may be configured to couple to first fasteners 114B and/or 114C to couple first sleeve flap 110B to second sleeve flap 120B. One or more second fasteners on the second sleeve flap may be disposed in a position between the sleeve proximal and distal ends that is complementary to the position of a row of fasteners on the first sleeve flap, such that such a row of fasteners is complementary or corresponding to the one or more second fasteners (either or both sleeve flaps may comprise row(s) of fasteners). For example, as shown in FIG. 1B, first fastener row 116A on first sleeve flap 110B is positioned complementary and/or corresponding to the second fastener 124A disposed closest to the sleeve distal edge 56 on second sleeve flap 120B, first fastener row 116B on first sleeve flap 110B is positioned complementary to the next second fastener 124B disposed next to the second fastener 124A disposed closest to the sleeve distal edge 56 on second sleeve flap 120B, and/or first fastener row 116C on first sleeve flap 110B is positioned complementary to the second fastener 124C disposed furthest from sleeve distal edge 56 on second sleeve flap 120B. Accordingly, second fastener 124A may be configured to couple to first fastener 114B and/or 114C in first fastener row 116A, second fastener 124B may be configured to couple to first fastener 114B and/or 114C in first fastener row 116B, and/or second fastener 124C may be configured to couple to first fastener 114B and/or 114C in first fastener row 116C. As another example, with reference to FIG. 3, each of second fasteners 524 may be complementarily disposed, and/or correspond to, one of fastener rows 316A-316E. As another example, with reference to FIG. 4, each of second fasteners 624 may be complementarily disposed, and/or correspond to, one of fastener rows 416A-416D. As yet another example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, each of second fasteners 524, 624 may be complementarily disposed, and/or correspond to, one of fastener rows 516A-516D.
[0034] To achieve a desired diameter of the sleeve, the fasteners on a first sleeve flap may couple with the fasteners in a certain column of fasteners on a second sleeve flap. In various embodiments, coupling a fastener on a first sleeve flap to a fastener column on a second sleeve flap closest to the second sleeve flap inner edge may achieve the largest available sleeve diameter (besides leaving one or more fasteners on one sleeve flap decoupled from complementary fasteners on the other sleeve flap). For example, to achieve a larger diameter offered by sleeve diameter adjustment system 100B in FIG. 1B, one or more second fasteners 124A-124C on second sleeve flap 120B may be coupled to one or more first fasteners in a fastener column closest to first sleeve flap inner edge 118 (e.g., to first fasteners 114B in first fastener column 112B). As another example, with reference to FIGS. 3-4, to achieve a larger sleeve diameter offered by a sleeve diameter adjustment system (e.g., sleeve diameter adjustment system 300 of sleeve 350 in FIG. 3, and/or sleeve diameter adjustment system 400 of sleeve 450 in FIG. 4), one or more second fasteners (e.g., second fasteners 524 on second sleeve flap 320 shown in FIG. 3, and/or second fasteners 624 on second sleeve flap 320 shown in FIG. 4) may be coupled to one or more first fasteners in a column closest to first sleeve flap inner edge 118 (e.g., to first fasteners 314 in first column 312A shown in FIG. 3, or to first fasteners 414 in first column 412A shown in FIG. 4). As yet another example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, to achieve a larger sleeve diameter offered by a sleeve diameter adjustment system (e.g., sleeve diameter adjustment system 500 of sleeve 550 in FIG. 5, sleeve diameter adjustment system 600 of sleeve 650 in FIG. 6, and/or sleeve diameter adjustment system 700 of sleeve 750 in FIG. 7), one or more second fasteners (e.g., second fasteners 524 on second sleeve flap 520 shown in FIG. 5, second fasteners 624 on second sleeve flap 520 shown in FIG. 6, and/or second fasteners 624 on second sleeve flap 320 in 7) may be coupled to one or more first fasteners in a column closest to first sleeve flap inner edge 118 (e.g., to first fasteners 514 in first column 512A).
[0035] In various embodiments, the sleeve flaps may be sized and comprise an amount of material such that the sleeve flaps may overlap without tightening the sleeve diameter, at least when the fasteners are coupled in to achieve the largest available diameter. That is, at least one of the sleeve flaps may comprise a greater amount (i.e., a greater circumferential length) of sleeve material than is needed to completely enclose the sleeve void.
[0036] In various embodiments, coupling a fastener on a first sleeve flap to a fastener column on a second sleeve flap furthest from the second sleeve flap inner edge may achieve the smallest available sleeve diameter (e.g., by causing the greatest amount of overlap between the first sleeve flap and the second sleeve flap). For example, to achieve a smaller diameter offered by sleeve diameter adjustment system 100B ion FIG. 1B, one or more second fasteners 124A-124C on second sleeve flap 120B may be coupled to one or more first fasteners in a fastener column further (or furthest) from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 (e.g., to first fasteners 114C in second fastener column 112C on first sleeve flap 110B). As another example, with reference to FIGS. 3-4, to achieve the smallest diameter offered by a sleeve diameter adjustment system (e.g., sleeve diameter adjustment system 300 of FIG. 3, and sleeve diameter adjustment system 400 of FIG. 4), one or more second fasteners (e.g., second fasteners 524 on second sleeve flap 320 shown in FIG. 3, and/or second fasteners 624 on second sleeve flap 320 shown in FIG. 4) may be coupled to one or more first fasteners in a column furthest from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 (e.g., to first fasteners 314 in first column 312C of FIG. 3, and/or to first fasteners 414 in first column 412B of FIG. 4). As yet another example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, to achieve the smallest diameter offered by a sleeve diameter adjustment system (e.g., sleeve diameter adjustment system 500 of FIG. 5, sleeve diameter adjustment system 600 of FIG. 6, and/or sleeve diameter adjustment system 700 of FIG. 7), one or more second fasteners (e.g., second fasteners 524 on second sleeve flap 520 shown in FIG. 5, second fasteners 624 on second sleeve flap 520 shown in FIG. 6, and/or second fasteners 624 on second sleeve flap 320 in 7) may be coupled to one or more first fasteners in a column furthest from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 (e.g., to first fasteners 514 in first column 512C).
[0037] In various embodiments, a sleeve flap may comprise any suitable number of fastener columns to allow more sleeve diameter options for the wearer to choose from. For example, with reference to FIG. 1B, first sleeve flap 110B may comprise additional columns of first fasteners 114, allowing the second fasteners 124A-124C on second sleeve flap 120B to be coupled to different columns of first fasteners 114 to further adjust the sleeve diameter, and/or further secure the coupling between the first and second sleeve flaps. As another example, with reference to FIGS. 3, a first flap may comprise more than two fastener columns, including a fastener column(s) allowing a sleeve diameter between a maximum and minimum sleeve diameter (e.g., fastener column 312B).
[0038] In various embodiments, both sleeve flaps may comprise multiple columns of fasteners to allow further adjustment options of the sleeve diameter and/or further securing options for the coupling between the first and second sleeve flaps.
[0039] In various embodiments, a fastener of each fastener column on each sleeve flap may be disposed in a cuff of the sleeve. For example, in FIG. 3, on first sleeve flap 310, first fasteners 314 in fastener row 316E may be disposed in cuff 58 of sleeve 350, and/or a second fastener 524 may be disposed in cuff 58 on second sleeve flap 320. Such a position of fasteners gives the wearer the ability to fasten the first sleeve flap to the second sleeve flap at an outward most portion of the sleeve (adjacent to sleeve distal edge 56). Thus, when such fasteners are coupled, the ends of the sleeve flaps may be secured, preventing the ends of the sleeve flaps from undesired hanging or movement.
[0040] In various embodiments, columns of fasteners may be disposed along lines that are substantially parallel to one another (in this context, "substantially" means plus or minus five or ten degrees from parallel). For example, with reference to FIG. 1B, first fasteners 114B in first fastener column 112B may be disposed along a line spanning between sleeve proximal end 52 and sleeve distal end 54 that is substantially parallel to a second line spanning between sleeve proximal end 52 and sleeve distal end 54 along which first fasteners 114C are disposed in first fastener column 112C. As another example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, first fasteners 514 in first fastener columns 512A-512C may be disposed along lines spanning between sleeve proximal end 52 and sleeve distal end 54 that are substantially parallel one another. In various embodiments, the fastener columns (or the lines upon which the fasteners may be disposed for each column) may be spaced equidistant from one another in a direction spanning from the flap inner edge into the sleeve body. For example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, fastener columns 512A-512C may be spaced substantially equidistant from one another in a direction starting from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 and spanning away therefrom into sleeve body 57 (in this context, "substantially" means each subject distance is within 10% of the other relevant distances). In various embodiments, the fastener columns (or the lines upon which the fasteners may be disposed for each column) may be spaced from one another in inconsistent, increasing, or decreasing distances, to achieve desired sleeve diameter options. For example, the distances between a first fastener column (the fastener column closest to the sleeve flap inner edge, e.g., first fastener column 512A) and the second fastener column (the next fastener column, e.g., second fastener column 512B) may be shorter or longer than the distance between the second fastener column and a third fastener column (e.g., third fastener column 512C).
[0041] In various embodiments, the first and/or second sleeve flap, and/or a proximal edge thereof, may not be coupled to (i.e., may be separate from) the torso portion of the shirt (e.g., while the rest of the sleeve proximal edge is couple to the shirt torso portion). That is, at least a portion of the proximal edge of a sleeve flap (and/or the sleeve body) may be separate from the shirt torso portion. For example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, the first sleeve flap 510 may not be coupled to (i.e., may be separate from) the torso portion of the shirt. That is, first sleeve flap proximal edge 558 may be separate from edge 62 of the shirt torso portion. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second sleeve flap 520 may also be separate from the torso portion of the shirt. That is, second sleeve flap proximal edge 559 may be separate from edge 62 of the shirt torso portion. Such configurations comprising a length of the sleeve proximal edge being separate from the shirt torso portion may allow easier movement of the sleeve flaps to engage one another without moving or folding the material of the shirt torso portion. Thus, the sleeve flap(s) decoupled from the shirt torso portion may be moved to couple to the other sleeve flap (which may or may not be coupled to the shirt torso portion) without forming lumps of shirt torso portion material, which otherwise would form if a greater amount (or all) of the sleeve proximal edge was coupled to the shirt torso portion.
[0042] In various embodiments, the amount of the sleeve body comprising a sleeve flap may be defined by the amount of the proximal edge of the sleeve flap that is separate from the shirt torso portion. In other words, a sleeve flap may be bounded by the point at which the sleeve proximal edge is coupled to the torso portion of the shirt, the boundary of the sleeve flap being the length spanning between the sleeve proximal edge (at the point the sleeve couples to the torso portion) and the sleeve distal edge (at a point at the same or similar position along the sleeve distal edge as such point along the sleeve proximal edge). Any suitable length along a sleeve proximal edge may be separate from the shirt torso portion to allow ease of movement of the respective sleeve flap(s).
[0043] In various embodiments, the first and/or second sleeve flap, and/or a proximal edge thereof, may be at least partially coupled to the torso portion of the shirt. For example, the first and/or second sleeve flap may be coupled to the shirt torso portion the entire length of the proximal edge of each sleeve flap. This way, when uncoupled from the other sleeve flap, the sleeve flaps may not be loosely hanging from the rest of the sleeve and/or the shirt torso portion. For example, as shown in FIG. 1B, first sleeve flap 110B may be coupled to torso portion 70 of the shirt at edge 62 for the length of the proximal edge of first sleeve flap 110B (e.g., up to first sleeve flap inner edge 118). Similarly, second sleeve flap 120B may be coupled to torso portion 70 of the shirt at edge 62 for the length of the proximal edge of second sleeve flap 120B (e.g., up to second sleeve flap inner edge 128). First sleeve flaps 310, 410 and second sleeve flaps 320, 420 in FIGS. 3-4 are similarly coupled to the torso portion of the shirt. As a further example, with reference to FIG. 7, second sleeve flap proximal edge 559 (which is continuous with the proximal edge of the sleeve 750) is coupled to the shirt torso portion up to second sleeve flap inner edge 128.
[0044] In various embodiments, columns of fasteners may be disposed along lines that are nonparallel. The lines may span between the proximal and distal ends of the sleeve. For example, with reference to FIG. 3, first fasteners 314 may be disposed in fastener columns along three lines: a first line associated with first fastener column 312A, a second line associated with second fastener column 312B, and a third line associated with third fastener column 312C. The first line, second line, and/or third line may be nonparallel to one another. As another example, with reference to FIG. 4, first fasteners 414 may be disposed in fastener columns along two lines: a first line associated with first fastener column 412A and a second line associated with second fastener column 412B. The first line and the second line may be nonparallel to one another. The lines along which fasteners are disposed on a sleeve flap may converge at a convergence point. The convergence point may be proximate the sleeve proximal end or edge, such that fasteners in a fastener row more proximate the sleeve distal end or edge (i.e., a fastener in one column and a fastener in another column in the same fastener row) may be spaced further apart than fasteners in a fastener row more proximate the sleeve proximal end or edge. That is, with fastener columns disposed along nonparallel lines, fastener rows more proximate the sleeve distal end may comprise greater spaces between the fasteners comprised therein than fasteners in fastener rows more proximate the sleeve proximal end.
[0045] In various embodiments, the convergence point may be disposed on the sleeve. For example, convergence point 395 is disposed on sleeves 350 and 450 in FIGS. 3-4. In various embodiments, lines along which fastener columns are disposed may be spaced, and/or the fasteners may be positioned, such that the convergence point is not disposed on the sleeve (e.g., and instead disposed on the shirt torso portion).
[0046] In various embodiments, a fastener may be disposed on the convergence point that is positioned on the sleeve. Such a fastener may be a convergence fastener. The convergence fastener may make up a fastener row most proximate the sleeve proximal edge (i.e., a fastener row most proximate the sleeve proximal edge may comprise a convergence fastener). The convergence fastener may be the fastener in each fastener column disposed along nonparallel lines that is most proximate the sleeve proximal edge. For example, the convergence fastener in fastener row 316A in FIG. 3 is the fastener most proximate the proximal edge of sleeve 350 in fastener columns 312A-312C. As another example, the convergence fastener in fastener row 416A in FIG. 4 is the fastener most proximate the proximal edge of sleeve 450 in fastener columns 412A-412B. Such a convergence fastener allows the complementary fastener on the other sleeve flap to couple thereto, and provide a pivoting point for moving and overlapping the first and second sleeve flaps relative to one another, and coupling the fasteners of the first and second sleeve flaps to achieve different sleeve diameters.
[0047] In various embodiments, a fastener may not be disposed on the convergence point. In various embodiments, wherein a sleeve flap comprises fastener columns disposed on nonparallel lines, the fastener row most proximate the proximal edge of the sleeve may comprise multiple fasteners.
[0048] In various embodiments, the nonparallel lines along which fastener columns are disposed may be close to one another proximate the sleeve proximal end (e.g., proximate the convergence point), such that one fastener per column cannot practically or feasibly fit in each of the columns along a corresponding fastener row. Accordingly, a fastener row proximate and/or adjacent to the convergence point of the fastener column lines may comprise fewer fasteners than the number of fastener columns. Therefore, such a fastener row may comprise fewer fasteners than fasteners rows more proximate the sleeve distal end. For example, with reference to FIG. 3, sleeve diameter adjustment system 300 may comprise three fastener columns 312A-312C on first sleeve flap 310. However, fastener row 316B (the fastener row adjacent to, or the next fastener row in sequence from, the convergence point (and the convergence fastener disposed thereon)) may comprise two fasteners (rather than three fasteners, one for each fastener column 312A-312C) because the spacing between the fastener column lines at the position of fastener row 316B may be too small to fit three fasteners in row 316B. Because first sleeve flap 310 and second sleeve flap 320 pivot about the connection points to the torso portion (e.g., at an armpit area 72) and/or about the convergence fastener in fastener row 316A when coupled to complementary second fastener 524, the amount of difference in selecting between the three available fasteners in fastener row 316B from columns 312A-312C may be negligible. Therefore, having fewer fasteners in fastener row 316B than the number of fastener columns (three) is sufficient to provide adequate fastening and sufficient sleeve diameter options without uncomfortable folding of the material of the first and second sleeve flaps.
[0049] In embodiments comprising the first and second sleeve flaps coupled to the shirt torso portion along a majority of the (or the entire) proximal edges of the first and second sleeve flaps, overlapping the first and second sleeve flaps without leaning or angling the inner edge of at least one of the first and second sleeve flap may result in uncomfortable or unsightly folded material in the shirt torso portion and/or the sleeve. Therefore, fastener columns disposed along nonparallel lines may be configured to avoid or mitigate against such uncomfortable and/or unsightly folding or lumping of shirt material. The point(s) at which the inner edges of the first and second sleeve flaps couple to the torso portion, and/or the fastener row most proximate the sleeve proximal edge (e.g., which may include a convergence fastener) allows a pivot point(s) about which the material of the first and second sleeve flaps may pivot (i.e., lean or angle) to overlap one another. Thus, as the distance away from the sleeve proximal edge increases toward the sleeve distal end, the amount of adjustment and overlap allowed by the nonparallel fastener columns increases, allowing a tapered (i.e., angled) overlap of the first and second sleeve flaps (i.e., the amount of overlap between the first and second sleeve flaps may gradually increase from the sleeve proximal end to the sleeve distal end). Therefore, the sleeve diameter may be adjusted (e.g., decreased or increased) with limited, or without, unwanted folding of shirt material.
[0050] In various embodiments, the fastener columns (or the lines upon which the fasteners may be disposed for each column) may be spaced equidistant from one another in a direction spanning from the sleeve flap inner edge into the sleeve body. That way, a wearer of a shirt with a sleeve diameter adjustment system may adjust the sleeve diameter in predictable, even intervals by electing to couple the sleeve flaps to certain fasteners in certain fastener columns. For example, fastener columns 312A-312C in FIG. 3, and/or fastener columns 412A-412B in FIG. 4, may be spaced substantially equidistant from one another in a direction starting from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 and spanning away therefrom into sleeve body 57. As another example, with reference to FIGS. 5-7, fastener columns 512A-512C may be spaced substantially equidistant from one another in a direction starting from first sleeve flap inner edge 118 and spanning away therefrom into sleeve body 57 (in this context, "substantially" means each subject distance is within 10% of the other relevant distances). In various embodiments, the fastener columns (or the lines upon which the fasteners may be disposed for each column) may be spaced from one another in inconsistent, increasing, or decreasing distances, to achieve desired sleeve diameter options. For example, the distances between a first fastener column (the fastener column closest to the sleeve flap inner edge, e.g., first fastener column 312A or 512A) and the second fastener column (the next fastener column, e.g., second fastener column 312B or 512B) may be shorter or longer than the distance between the second fastener column and a third fastener column (e.g., third fastener column 312C or 512C).
[0051] In various embodiments, a sleeve diameter adjustment system may comprise any suitable number of fastener columns and/or rows, and spacing therebetween, to achieve a desired coupling between the first and second sleeve flaps.
[0052] In various embodiments, the fasteners of the sleeve diameter adjustment system may comprise any suitable structure and/or device configured to couple one sleeve flap to another sleeve flap. For example, fasteners coupled to one sleeve flap may comprise buttons, snaps, clasps, pins, hooks, loops, and/or the like, and fasteners coupled to another sleeve flap may comprise complementary button holes, receiving snaps, clasps, pin holes, loops, hooks, and/or the like, respectively, to couple the sleeve flaps together. For example, sleeve diameter adjustment system 100B in FIG. 1B comprises snaps as second fasteners 124A-124C, and complementary receiving snaps as first fasteners 114B and 114C. As another example, as shown in FIGS. 3-4, first fasteners 314, 414 may comprise button holes configured to receive second fasteners 524, 624 comprising complementary buttons (FIGS. 5-7 depict similar fastener types). In various embodiments, the fastener types may be coupled to either sleeve flap to allow coupling of the sleeve flaps (e.g., in FIG. 1B, the snaps could have been disposed on first sleeve flap 110B and the receiving snaps could have been disposed on second sleeve flap 120, or in FIGS. 3-4, the buttons could have been disposed on first sleeve flap 310 or 410 and the button holes could have been disposed on second sleeve flap 320). In various embodiments, the type of fastener disposed in fastener columns could have been disposed on either sleeve flap (e.g., in FIG. 1B, the snaps could have been disposed in multiple columns and the receiving snaps could have been disposed in a single column, or in FIGS. 3-4, the buttons could have been disposed in multiple columns and the button holes could have been in a single column). In various embodiments, both sleeve flaps may comprise fasteners disposed in multiple fastener columns.
[0053] In various embodiments, the fasteners on the sleeve flaps may be disposed on an outer surface and/or an inner surface of the sleeve body and/or sleeve flap material. The inner surface may be facing and/or adjacent to the sleeve void (e.g., sleeve void 55). For example, the fasteners on a first sleeve flap may be disposed on an outer surface, and the fasteners on a second sleeve flap may be disposed on an inner surface. For example, in FIG. 1B, first fasteners 114B, 114C are disposed on an outer surface of first sleeve flap 110B, and second fasteners 124A-124C are disposed on an inner surface of second sleeve flap 120B. In various embodiments, a fastener may disposed through a sleeve flap. For example, in FIG. 3, first fasteners 314 may be disposed through first sleeve flap 310 (button holes). Second fasteners 524 in FIGS. 3 and 5 may be disposed on an outer surface of the second sleeve flap and/or sleeve body 57. Second fasteners 624 in FIGS. 4, 6, and 7 may be disposed on an inner surface 121 of the second sleeve flap and/or sleeve body 57. Having the fasteners on one sleeve flap being disposed on the inner surface thereof and the fasteners on the other sleeve flap being disposed on an outer surface and/or through the sleeve flap may allow coupling of the sleeve flaps without one sleeve flap hanging from the outer surface of the sleeve. That is, the sleeve flaps may couple and overlap with one another such that a first sleeve flap having unengaged fasteners closer to the first sleeve flap's inner edge than the engaged fasteners will engage with a second sleeve flap's inner surface and rest within (i.e., adjacent to sleeve void 55) the second sleeve flap. Thus, a first sleeve flap with unengaged fasteners will not hang outside of the second sleeve. In various embodiments, the fasteners on both sleeve flaps may be disposed on same surface (i.e., all fasteners on the inner surface, all fasteners on the outer surface, or all surfaces through the sleeve material). In various embodiments, fasteners on the sleeve flaps may be disposed on or through any suitable surface.
[0054] In various embodiments, a diameter adjustment system may be disposed above the elbow of a wearer, and/or on a bottom portion of the sleeve, i.e., an armpit area 72 (e.g., opposite a top portion, which may be coupled to a shoulder portion 12 of the shirt torso portion, shown in FIG. 1A). For example, if the circumference or perimeter (e.g., defined by the sleeve body) is divided into equal thirds, fourths, fifths, etc., the slit of the diameter adjustment system (e.g., slit 102) may be disposed in the bottom third, fourth, fifth, etc. Described in other words, when the entire proximal edges of the sleeve flaps are coupled to the shirt torso portion, the points at which the sleeve flap inner edges intersect with the shirt torso portion may be comprised in the armpit area 72. In embodiments comprising sleeve flaps that overlap past each other even when all of the shirt torso-sleeve edge 62 is coupled to the sleeve proximal edge, the point at which the sleeve flaps converge may be in the armpit area 72. A proximal end of the slit (e.g., slit 102) may be disposed in armpit area 72. More generally, the armpit area 72 is the area most proximate the portion of the shirt and/or sleeve in which a wearer's armpit resides when worn.
[0055] The sleeve diameter adjustment system may extend along the bottom portion of the sleeve at least a portion of the length from the sleeve proximal end 52 to the sleeve distal edge 56 (e.g., extending substantially parallel to axis A, along which the sleeve and/or the sleeve void spans). This position may allow the sleeve diameter adjustment system to remain at least partially hidden (i.e., subtle and unnoticed) when the shirt is worn by the wearer. Therefore, the wearer may adjust the sleeve diameter, and wear such a shirt, without obviously indicating that the shirt comprises a sleeve diameter adjustment system.
[0056] Despite the foregoing description herein relating to a shirt sleeve, it would not be outside the scope of this disclosure to position the sleeve diameter adjustment system along another portion of the shirt sleeve other than the armpit area, extend the sleeve diameter adjustment system past the elbow of a wearer toward the wrist, and/or apply the diameter adjustment system to another part of a shirt or other clothing article.
[0057] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and/or physical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in a practical system. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the disclosure. The scope of the disclosure is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one or more." Moreover, where a phrase similar to "at least one of A, B, or C" is used in the claims, it is intended that the phrase be interpreted to mean that A alone may be present in an embodiment, B alone may be present in an embodiment, C alone may be present in an embodiment, or that any combination of the elements A, B and C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. Different cross-hatching is used throughout the figures to denote different parts but not necessarily to denote the same or different materials.
[0058] Systems, methods and apparatus are provided herein. In the detailed description herein, references to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "various embodiments", etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments.
[0059] Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for." As used herein, the terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.
User Contributions:
Comment about this patent or add new information about this topic: