US 20180325201A1

(19 ) United States

(12) Patent Application Publication (10 ) Pub. No.: US 2018 /0325201 A1
Johnson (43) Pub. Date : Nov. 15 , 2018
(54) ADJUSTABLE, CONFIGURABLE HAT (52) CPC
U .S . CI......... ..... A42B 1 /225 (2013 .01) ; A42B 1/ 206
( 71 ) Applicant: Deborah Jeanne Johnson , Villa Park , ( 2013 .01 ); A42B 1/241 (2013 .01)
CA (US) (57) ABSTRACT
(72 ) Inventor: Deborah Jeanne Johnson , Villa Park , An adjustable , configurable hat is described that can be
CA (US) configured to accommodate a variety of hairstyles . In gen
eral, the adjustable , configurable hat has a crown member, an
(21) Appl. No.: 16 /045,021 enlarged opening and a panel that is releasably attachable to
the crown member. In one example , the adjustable , configu
(22 ) Filed : Jul. 25 , 2018 rable hat generally has an open configuration and a closed
configuration . In the closed configuration , the panel is
Related U .S . Application Data releasably attached to the crown member by the fastening
mechanisms, covers the enlarged opening and generally has
(63 ) Continuation of application No . 13 /800 ,090, filed on the appearance of a hat that is not adjustable and configu
Mar . 13, 2013 . rable . In the open configuration , the panel is releasably
(60 ) Provisional application No. 61/ 752 ,197 , filed on Jan . attached to the inside of the crown member by the fastening
14 , 2013 , provisional application No. 61/726 , 183 , members such that it is not visible when the hat is worn and
filed on Nov. 14 , 2012 . the enlarged opening allows the wearer of the hat to wear a
variety of hairstyles while wearing the hat . In both configu
Publication Classification rations, the fastening mechanisms and the panel are hidden
by the crownmember. In another example , the crown is split
(51) Int. CI. down the back center to have a left and right half and the hat
A42B 1/22 ( 2006 .01) can be configured to its open configuration by separating the
A42B 1/ 24 ( 2006 . 01) left half from the right half and folding each half inside two
A42B 1/20 (2006 .01) respective pockets inside the hat.

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US 2018/0325201 A1
ADJUSTABLE , CONFIGURABLE HAT
RELATED APPLICATIONS/PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This is a continuation of application Ser. No.
13 /800 ,090 , filed Mar. 13 , 2013, which claims priority to
U .S . Provisional Application No. 61 /726 , 183 entitled
“ Adjustable, Configurable Hat” by Deborah Jeanne Johnson
filed on Nov. 14 , 2012 and U . S . Provisional Application No .
61/752 , 197 entitled “ Adjustable , Configurable Hat" by
Deborah Jeanne Johnson filed Jan . 14 , 2013 all of which are
incorporated herein in their entirety .
FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to headwear , par
ticularly headwear able to accommodate a wide variety of
hairstyles.
BACKGROUND
[0003 ] Hats are apparel designed to be worn on the head
of individuals and are manufactured in a multitude of
methods and a variety of designs . Hats are often worn for
functional purposes including , for example , keeping an
individual's head warm or the sun out of an individual's
eyes. Hats are also worn for aesthetic purposes that are often
independent from the functionality of the hat. For example ,
an individual may wear a winter hat because it is embroi
dered with a logo of the individual's favorite sports team , or
an individualmay wear a hat with a particular design as an
accessory to the individual' s chosen outfit .
[0004 ] Individuals having short hair are generally able to
freely enjoy the functionality and aesthetic appeal of hats.
Individuals with longer hair, however, are generally more
limited in the types ofhats they can wear as the hat must be
able to accommodate the individual 's long hair. Further
more , hats able to accommodate long hair are generally only
able to accommodate the hair in a limited number of ways .
[0005 ) For example , one common hat that is able to
accommodate individuals with long hair is the adjustable
baseball cap . Adjustable baseball caps generally have an
opening in the rear of the cap that can be used to allow an
accumulation of hair to pass through . Individuals with long
hair who wish to wear an adjustable baseball cap will
typically tie their hair in a low ponytail, a ponytail located
near the base of an individual' s head , and thread the low
ponytail through the opening in the rear of the cap . The low
ponytail is generally the only hairstyle such an adjustable
baseball cap can accommodate .
[ 0006 ]. The adjustable baseball cap examples the tradeoff
encountered by individuals with long hair who wish to wear
a hat: wearing a specific hat may limit the type of hairstyles
an individual can wear, and wearing a specific hairstyle may
limit the type of hats an individual can don .
SUMMARY
[0007] In some embodiments , an adjustable , configurable
hat which includes a headband shaped to fit about the
circumference of an individual' s head ; a crown member
with at least one opening to allow an accumulation of hair
to pass through ; at least one panel that is configured to at
least partially cover the at least one opening ; at least one
tether fixably attaching the at least one panel to the crown
member , and a fastening system which includes at least a
first and second fastening mechanism to releasably attach
Nov . 15 , 2018
the panel to the crown member in at least two configurations ,
the fastening system being visibly hidden by the crown
member . In the first configuration , the at least one panel is
releasably attached to the crownmember to cover the at least
one opening. In the second configuration , the at least one
panel is releasably attached to the crown member in such a
way that the opening is left exposed and the panel is visibly
hidden by the crown member.
10008 ] In some embodiments , an adjustable , configurable
hat which includes a headband shaped to fit about the
circumference of an individual ' s head ; a crown member
with at least one opening to allow an accumulation of hair
to pass through ; at least one flap configured to at least
partially cover the at least one opening ; and a fastening
system which includes at least a first and second fastening
mechanism to releasably attach the flap to the crown mem
ber in at least two configurations , the fastening system being
visibly hidden by the crown member. In the first configu
ration , the at least one flap is releasably attached to the
crown member to cover the at least one opening. In the
second configuration , the at least one flap is releasably
attached to the crownmember in such a way that the opening
is left exposed and the flap is visibly hidden by the crown
member.
[0009 ] In some embodiments , an adjustable , configurable
hat which includes an adjustable headband shaped to fit
about the circumference of an individual' s head ; a crown
member with at least one opening to allow an accumulation
of hair to pass through ; at least one panel configured to at
least partially cover the at least one opening; at least one
tether fixably attaching the at least one panel to the crown
member , and a fastening system which includes at least a
first and second fastening mechanism to releasably attach
the panel to the crown member in a plurality of configura
tions, the fastening mechanism being visibly hidden by the
crown member. The collective circumference having the
purpose of varying the collective circumference of the
crown member and the panel.
10010 ] In some embodiments , an adjustable , configurable
hat which includes a headband shaped to fit about the
circumference of an individual's head ; a crown member
with at least one opening to allow an accumulation of hair
to pass through , the opening exposing at least about 30 % of
an individual 's head ; at least one panel configured to at least
partially cover the at least one opening; and at least one
tether fixably attaching the at least one panel to the crown
member. The hat can be configured in an open and closed
configuration . In the open configuration the panel does not
cover the opening in the crown member thereby leaving the
opening exposed . In the closed configuration , the panel
covers the opening in the crown member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011 ] The following drawings illustrate some particular
embodiments of the present invention and therefore do not
limit the scope of the invention . The drawings are not to
scale (unless so stated ) and are intended for use in conjunc
tion with the explanations in the following detailed descrip
tion . Some embodiments will hereinafter be described in
conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like
numerals denote like elements .
[0012 ] FIG . 1 is a front perspective view of an adjustable,
configurable hat in accordance with an embodiment.
US 2018/0325201 A1
[0013] FIG . 2 is a side perspective view of an adjustable,
configurable hat in a closed configuration in accordance with
an embodiment.
[0014 ] FIG . 3 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat in a closed configuration in accordance with
an embodiment.
[ 0015 ] FIG . 4 is a rear perspective view of the adjustable ,
configurable hat shown in FIGS. 1 - 3 in an open configura
tion in accordance with an embodiment.
[ 0016 ]. FIG . 5 is a side perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat in an open configuration in accordance with
an embodiment.
[0017] FIG . 6 is a rear view of an adjustable , configurable
hat in a closed configuration in accordance with an embodi
ment.
[0018 ] FIG . 7 is a rear view of the adjustable, configurable
hat in FIG . 6 being transitioned from a closed configuration
to an open configuration .
[00191. FIG . 8 is a rear view of the adjustable , configurable
hat in FIG . 6 still being transitioned from a closed configu
ration to an open configuration .
[ 0020 ] FIG . 9 is a rear view of the adjustable , configurable
hat in FIG . 6 in an open configuration .
[0021 ] FIG . 10 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat in an open configuration in accordance with
an embodiment.
[0022 ] FIG . 11 is a side perspective view of the adjustable ,
configurable hat in FIG . 10 in an open configuration .
[0023 ] FIG . 12 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat in an open configuration in accordance with
an embodiment.
[0024 ] FIG . 13 is a side perspective view of the adjustable ,
configurable hat in FIG . 12 in an open configuration .
[0025 ] FIG . 14 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat in an open configuration in accordance with
an embodiment.
[0026 ] FIG . 15 is a side perspective view of the adjustable ,
configurable hat in FIG . 14 in an open configuration .
[0027] FIG . 16 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable,
configurable hat in a closed configuration in accordance with
an embodiment.
[0028] FIG . 17 is a rear perspective of an adjustable,
configurable hat in an open configuration according to
another embodiment of the invention .
[ 0029 ] FIG . 18 is a rear perspective view of a configurable
hat in a closed configuration according to another embodi
ment of the invention .
[0030] FIG . 19 is a rear perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIG . 18 in an open configuration .
[ 0031] FIG . 20 is a rear perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIGS. 18 - 19 being transitioned from a
closed configuration to an open configuration .
[0032 ] FIG . 21 is a side perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIGS. 18 -20 .
[0033] FIG . 22 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 18 -21.
[0034 ] FIG . 23 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIG . 22 with a flap shown secured .
[0035 ] FIG . 24 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS . 22 - 23 with both flaps shown in a secured position .
[0036 ] FIG . 25 is a rear perspective view of a configurable
hat in a closed configuration according to another embodi
ment of the invention .
Nov . 15 , 2018
[0037 ] FIG . 26 is a rear perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIG . 25 being transitioned from a closed
configuration to an open configuration .
[0038 ] FIG . 27 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 25 - 26 .
[0039 ] FIG . 28 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIG . 27 .
10040 ] FIG . 29 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 25 - 28 with both flaps shown in a secured position .
(0041] FIG . 30 is a rear perspective view of a configurable
hat in a closed configuration according to another embodi
ment of the invention .
(0042 ] FIG . 31 is a rear perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIG . 30 in an open configuration .
0043 ] FIG . 32 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS . 30 and 31.
100441 FIG . 33 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 30 - 32 with a left half shown secured in a pocket.
10045 ] FIG . 34 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 30 -31 with both halves shown secured in respective
pockets .
[0046 ] FIG . 35 is a rear perspective view of a configurable
hat according to another embodiment of the invention .
[0047] FIG . 36 is a side perspective view of the hat shown
in FIG . 35 .
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0048 ] The following detailed description is exemplary in
nature and is not intended to limit the scope , applicability , or
configuration of the invention in any way . Rather, the
following description provides some practical illustrations
for implementing some embodiments of the present inven
tion . Examples of constructions, materials , dimensions, and
manufacturing processes are provided for selected elements,
and all other elements employ that which is known to those
of ordinary skill in the field of the invention . Those skilled
in the art will recognize that many of the noted examples
have a variety of suitable alternatives.
[0049 ] FIG . 1 is a front perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat 10 in accordance with an embodiment. FIG .
1 illustrates crown member 12 which is configured to fit on
a an individual' s head 13 ; bill 14 which is attached to crown
member 12 ; and front design 16 which is located on crown
member 12 . The adjustable , configurable hat 10 is config
ured in the style of a baseball cap and, as shown in FIG . 1 ,
the front of the hat has the appearance of a traditional
baseball cap .
[0050] In this example , crown member 12 is dome shaped
and substantially covers an individual' s head 13 . It can be
appreciated that in different examples , crown member 12
can vary in shape and size and can cover more or less of an
individual's head 13 . Crown member 12 can also be made
from a variety of materials in a variety of colors .
[0051] Bill 14 is attached to , and centered on , the front of
crown member 12 and extends angularly forward from
crown member 12 . When the front of crown member 12 is
aligned with the front of an individual's head 13 , bill 14
extends above the individual's eyes. Adjustable, configu
rable hat 10 need not be worn in such a way that the front
of crown member 12 aligns with the front of an individual' s
head 13 . While FIG . 1 shows an adjustable , configurable hat
10 which includes bill 14 , it can be appreciated that other
examples may not include bill 14 .
US 2018/0325201 A1
[0052 ] FIG . 1 also illustrates design 16 which is located on
the front of crown member 12 . Design 16 is centered on the
front of crown member 12 and comprises an embroidered
logo of a sports team . It can be appreciated that in other
examples design 16 may have any variety of designs and be
formed from any type of material . The location of design 16
need not be limited to the front center of the crown member
12 , but may be located on a side of the crown member 12 or
the back of the crown member 12 . In addition , in some
examples there is no design 16 .
[0053] FIG . 2 is a side perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat 10 in a closed configuration in accordance
with an embodiment. As in FIG . 1, FIG . 2 illustrates crown
member 12 configured to fit on an individual's head 13 ; bill
14 attached to crown member 12 , design 16 found on crown
member 12; and additionally design 18 which is found on a
side of crown member 12 . In this example, design 18 is an
embroidered logo of the manufacturer of the hat. It can be
appreciated that in other examples, design 18 may vary in
number and be configured in any variety of designs and be
formed from any type ofmaterial. The location of design 18
need not be limited to a side of crown member 12 . Other
examples may not include design 18 .
[0054] FIG . 3 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable,
configurable hat 10 in a closed configuration in accordance
with an embodiment. FIG . 3 illustrates panel 22 fastened to
crownmember 12 ; opening 30 through which a low ponytail
26 passes through ; and headband 20 . In this example , panel
22 can be releasably attached to crown member 12 by
fastening mechanisms (not shown ) in two different configu
rations : an open configuration and a closed configuration .
FIG . 3 shows the adjustable , configurable hat 10 in a closed
configuration where panel 22 is releasably attached to crown
member 12 such that panel 22 substantially covers enlarged
opening 32 ( see FIG . 4 ). In this closed configuration , adjust
able , configurable hat 10 has the appearance of a traditional
baseball cap from the rear.
[0055 ] FIG . 3 shows panel 22 located near the rear of
crown member 12 and is substantially wedge shaped . Panel
22 begins at top 28 of crown member 12 and extends toward
headband 20 situated near base 15 of crown member 12 . The
shape and size of panel 22 is not limited to wedge shaped
and can be designed and manufactured to be any suitable
size or shape . In this example, panel 22 is made of the same
material as crown member 12 to provide adjustable, con
figurable hat 10 a substantially uniform appearance . FIG . 3
shows seams 24a , 24b , the seams showing the boundary
between crown member 12 and panel 22 . In other examples,
panel 22 and crown member 12 may be designed and
manufactured in such a way that the seams 24a , 24b are
disguised or hidden .
10056 . FIG . 3 also shows headband 20 located near base
15 of crown member 12 . In this example , headband 20 is
adjustable and can be configured to change the circumfer
ence of crown member 12 to provide a better fit around an
individual's head 13 . Headband 20 comprises two straps
releasably secured together by a hook - and- loop type fastener
such as that commercially sold under the brand VelcroTM for
example . The straps can be released from each other and
realigned to increase or decrease the circumference of
headband 20 . In other examples , the two straps comprising
headband 20 may be releasably secured by adjustable snap
back or any other suitable adjusting mechanism . Headband
20 may also be configured to be non -adjustable , comprising
Nov . 15 , 2018
only a single strip of material, and crown member 12 and
panel 22 may be designed to give adjustable , configurable
hat 10 the appearance of a fitted baseball cap .
[0057] When adjustable, configurable hat 10 is in a closed
configuration , panel 22 , crown member 12 and headband 20
form opening 30 . While it can be appreciated that panel 22
can be sized and shape to increase , decrease or reshape
opening 30 , the style of adjustable, configurable hat 10 is
that of a traditional baseball cap , and so panel 22, crown
member 12 and headband 20 are configured to form opening
30 with dimensions consistent with the opening in a tradi
tional baseball cap . FIG . 3 further shows low ponytail 26 , a
hairstyle commonly worn by individuals donning a tradi
tional baseball cap , extending through opening 30.
[0058 ] FIG . 4 is a rear perspective view of the adjustable ,
configurable hat 10 shown in FIGS. 1 - 3 in an open configu
ration in accordance with an embodiment. FIG . 4 shows
enlarged opening 32 in crown member 12 where panel 22
was previously when adjustable , configurable hat 10 was in
a closed configuration . Panel 22 (not shown ) is releasably
attached to interior surface 36 (not shown ) of crown member
12 and is not visible from exterior surface 34 of crown
member 12 when the hat is in this open configuration .
[0059 ] Enlarged opening 32 begins at top 28 of crown
member 12 and extends toward headband 20 near the base
15 of crown member 12 . Aswith panel 22 , the shape and size
of enlarged opening 32 can be designed and manufactured to
be any suitable shape or size . So in another example ,
enlarged opening 32 may extend vertically from the base 15
of crown member 12 toward the top 28 of crown member 12
and extend horizontally for one eighth to one half of the
circumference of the crown member 12 . Generally , enlarged
opening 32 should be sized to expose at least about 20 % of
an individual ' s head 13 to allow an accumulation of hair to
pass through . As shown in FIG . 4 , enlarged opening 32
allows individuals wearing adjustable , configurable hat 10 to
wear a wider variety ofhairstyles, like a high ponytail 27 . As
can be appreciated , an individual wearing a traditional
baseball cap with an opening similar to opening 30 , as
shown in FIG . 3 , would not be able to wear a high ponytail
27 because the position of high ponytail 27 on an individu
al's head 13 would not align with the opening of the
traditional baseball cap . Other more elaborate hairstyles that
cannot be worn with a traditional baseball cap , but can be
worn with adjustable, configurable hat 10 in an open con
figuration will be further illustrated .
[0060 ] FIG . 5 is a side perspective view of the adjustable ,
configurable hat 10 shown in FIG . 4 in an open configuration
in accordance with an embodiment. Adjustable , configurable
hat 10 in an open configuration still appears substantially
similar to a traditional baseball cap . As noted above , panel
22 (not shown ) has been fastened to an interior surface 36
( not shown ) of crown member 12 and is not visible from
exterior surface 34 . Likewise , all fastening mechanisms
releasably attaching panel 22 to crown member 12 are also
not visible from exterior surface 34 . Both design 18 and
design 16 remain clearly visible . While a front perspective
view of adjustable , configurable hat 10 in an open configu
ration is not provided , it can be appreciated that the front of
adjustable , configurable hat 10 will continue to have the
appearance , and silhouette of a traditional baseball cap .
[0061] FIG . 6 through FIG . 9 show an adjustable, con
figurable hat 40 being transitioned from a closed configu
ration to an open configuration .
US 2018/0325201 A1
[0062 ] FIG . 6 is a rear view of an adjustable, configurable
hat 40 in a closed configuration in accordance with an
embodiment. FIG . 6 shows crown member 12 with exterior
surface 34 , panel 22 with exterior surface 38 , headband 20 ,
and opening 30 . A tether 44 ( see FIG . 7) permanently
attaches the panel 22 to the crown member 12 . Panel 22 is
releasably attached to portions of the crown member 12 by
fastening mechanisms 40a , 40b (not shown ) fixed on exte
rior surface 38 of panel 22 , and fastening mechanisms 41a ,
41b (not shown ) fixed on the interior surface 36 of crown
member 12 . As shown in FIG . 6 , adjustable , configurable hat
40 in a closed configuration has the appearance of a tradi
tional baseball cap from the rear.
[0063] FIG . 7 is a rear view of the adjustable , configurable
hat 40 in FIG . 6 being transitioned from a closed configu
ration to an open configuration . FIG . 7 shows panel 22
unfastened from portions of the crown member 12 ; tether 44
fixably attaching panel 22 to crown member 12 ; enlarged
opening 32 ; fastening mechanisms 40a , 40b fixed to the
exterior surface 38 of panel 22 ; and fastening mechanisms
42a, 42b fixed to the front interior surface 36 of crown
member 12 . Fastening mechanisms 41a , 41b (not visible )
are fixed to the interior surface 36 of crown member 12
generally along seams 24a, 24b , respectively .
[0064 ] In this example , fastening mechanisms 40a , 405 ,
41a , 416 , 42a , 42b comprise a fastening system configured
to releasably attach panel 22 to portions of the crown
member 12 in either an open or closed configuration . In one
example, the fastening system is a hook - and -loop type
fastener. Fastening mechanisms 40a , 40b preferably are
hook fasteners, while fastening mechanisms 41a , 416 , 42a ,
42b are loop fasteners. When fastening mechanisms 40a ,
40b are fastened to fastening mechanisms 41a , 41b , adjust
able, configurable hat 40 is in a closed configuration . Alter
natively , when fastening mechanisms 40a , 40b are fastened
to fastening mechanisms 42a, 42b , adjustable , configurable
hat 40 is in an open configuration . While FIG . 7 shows
hook -and - loop based fastening mechanisms, other fastening
mechanisms may be used such as zippers , snaps or magnets ,
or a combination of different fastening mechanisms. Fur
thermore , as shown in FIG . 7 , the fastening mechanisms are
located in positions that are not visible from the exterior of
the crown member and will therefore not draw attention
away from or obstruct designs 16 , 18 ( shown in FIGS. 1 -5 ) .
[0065 ] FIG . 7 shows fastening mechanism 40a, 40b unfas
tened from fastening mechanism 41a , 41b , respectively.
Consequently , panel 22 is not flush with exterior surface 34
of crown member 12 and enlarged opening 32 is formed
from the area where panel 22 and opening 30 ( not shown )
once were. While panel 22 has been unfastened from crown
member 12 , panel 22 is still fixably attached to crown
member 12 by tether 44 . Tether 44 is generally formed from
a short piece of material having at least a first end and a
second end . In this example , the first end ( not visible ) of
tether 44 is fixed to top 28 of crown member 12 and the
second end ( not visible ) of tether 44 is fixed to a top of the
panel 22 . Tether 44 fixably attaches panel 22 to crown
member 12 so that panel 22 will remain with adjustable ,
configurable hat 10 when panel 22 is unfastened from crown
member 12 . In another example , tether 44 may releasably
attach the panel 22 to crown member 12 , the tether 44 may
be fixably attached to crown member 12 and detachable
from panel 22 , or vice versa .
Nov . 15 , 2018
[0066 ] FIG . 8 is a rear view of the adjustable, configurable
hat 40 in FIG . 6 still being transitioned from a closed
configuration to an open configuration . In FIG . 8 , panel 22
is still unfastened from crown member 12 , but has been
rotated 180 degrees about tether 44 such that interior surface
46 of panel 22 is facing outward and exterior surface 38 (not
shown ), on which are located fastening mechanisms 40a ,
40b , of panel 22 is facing inward . When panel 22 is in this
orientation , fastening mechanisms 40a, 40b (not visible ) on
panel 22 are aligned with fastening mechanisms 42a , 425 ,
respectively , on the front interior surface 36 of crown
member 12 .
10067 ] FIG . 9 is a rear view of the adjustable , configurable
hat 40 in FIG . 6 in an open configuration . FIG . 9 illustrates
panel 22 releasably attached to the interior surface 36 of
crown member 12 . After the panel 22 has been unfastened
from the crown member 12 , the panel is twisted 180 degrees
about the tether so that fasteningmechanism 40a , 40b on the
panel 22 face the fastening mechanism 42a , 42b on the
interior of the crown member 12 . Fastening mechanism 40a ,
40b (not shown) on panel 22 are secured to fastening
mechanisms42a , 42b (not shown ), respectively, on the front
interior surface 36 of crown member 12 . In this orientation ,
interior surface 46 of panel 22 is facing inward and exterior
surface 38 of panel 22 (not shown ) is adjacent to the interior
surface 36 of crown member 12 facing outward . As illus
trated in FIG . 9 , the panel is located in a position such that
it is not visible from the exterior of the crown member and
therefore will not draw attention away from or obstruct
designs 16 , 18 (shown in FIGS . 1 - 5 ) . Thus , the transition
from a closed configuration , as illustrated in FIG . 6 , to an
open configuration is complete . In this open configuration ,
enlarged opening 32 is fully exposed allowing an individual
wearing adjustable , configurable hat 40 to wear a wide
variety of hairstyles.
[0068 ] FIG . 10 through FIG . 15 show a variety of hair
styles that can be worn with adjustable , configurable hat 10
that cannot typically be worn with a traditional baseball cap
with an opening similar to opening 30 as shown in FIG . 3 .
100691. FIG . 10 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat 10 in an open configuration in accordance
with an embodiment; and FIG . 11 is a side perspective view
of the adjustable, configurable hat 10 in FIG . 10 in an open
configuration . FIGS. 10 and 11 show straight hair 47 extend
ing through enlarged opening 32 . FIG . 12 is a rear perspec
tive view of an adjustable , configurable hat 10 in an open
configuration in accordance with an embodiment; and FIG .
13 is a side perspective view of the adjustable , configurable
hat 10 in FIG . 12 in an open configuration . FIGS. 12 and 13
show messy updo 48 extending through enlarged opening
32 . FIG . 14 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat 10 in an open configuration in accordance
with an embodiment; and FIG . 15 is a side perspective view
of the adjustable , configurable hat 10 in FIG . 14 in an open
configuration . FIGS. 14 and 15 show messy bun 49 extend
ing through enlarged opening 32 .
10070 ] FIG . 16 is a rear perspective view of an adjustable ,
configurable hat in a closed configuration in accordance with
an embodiment. FIG . 16 illustrates zipper 54a , 54b posi
tioned along seams 24a , 24b and fastening panel 22 to crown
member 12 . As in previous figures , panel 22 starts near top
28 of crown member 12 and extends toward headband 20
near the base 15 of crown member 12 . In this example ,
zippers 54a , 54b replace the hook - and -loop fastening
US 2018/0325201 A1
mechanisms seen in previous examples . In addition to
fastening panel 22 to crown member 12 , zippers 54a , 546
also serve an aesthetic function in that they are colored to
match front design 16 ( not shown ). In this embodiment, the
bottom of panel 22 has loops (not shown ) sewn in to allow
the adjustable straps 20 to slide through before straps 20 are
attached to each other for size and adjustment.
[0071 ] In another example , an adjustable , configurable hat
with an adjustable headband may have fastening mecha
nisms to secure a panel in a plurality of positions relative to
a crown member to increase the aesthetic appeal of the hat.
In traditional baseball caps with adjustable headbands, when
the headband is adjusted the shape of the cap 's crown
member is often distorted as the rear of the cap tends to
bulge outward . Consequently, an adjustable, configurable
hat configured to have the style of a traditional baseball cap
in a closed position will have the same tendency to get
distorted . For example, using FIG . 3 as a reference, when
headband 20 is adjusted to decrease the circumference of
headband 20, it will cause panel 22 to bulge outward
because the collective circumference of crown member 12
and panel 22 will no longer be proportional to the circum
ference of adjusted headband 20 . This distortion can be
compensated for by fastening panel 22 relative to crown
member 12 in such a way that releasably fixing the extra
material causing panel 22 to bulge adjacent to the interior
surface of crown member 12 . Using FIG . 7 as a reference ,
fastening mechanisms 41a , 41b (not visible) may comprise
wide strips of hook or loop running generally along seams
24a , 24b . Thus fastening mechanisms 41a , 41b need not
fasten to crown member 12 only along seams 24a , 24b , but
can rather be fastened further inward causing panel 22 and
crown member 12 to overlap generally along seams 24a,
24b . This overlapping of material serves to reduce the
collective circumference of crown member 12 and panel 22
to be proportional to the circumference of headband 20
when it is adjusted to be smaller .
[0072] Similarly, a panel of an adjustable , configurable hat
can be configured such that the collective circumference of
a crown member and the panel may be adjusted to be
proportional to the circumference of a headband when the
headband is adjusted to be larger. For example , again using
FIG . 7 as a reference , panel 22 can configured to be wider
than enlarged opening 32 such that when headband 20 is not
adjusted , panel 22 and crown member 12 already overlap
generally along seams 24a , 24b . When the circumference of
headband 20 is increased , panel 22 can be adjusted relative
to crown member 12 to let out material such that the
collective circumference of crown member 12 and panel 22
is proportional to the circumference of headband 20 when it
is adjusted to be larger.
10073] It can be appreciated that while hook - and -loop
fasteners have been illustrated , any type of fasteningmecha
nismsmay be used to either convert the hat from an open
configuration to a closed configuration or adjust the collec
tive circumference of a crown member and a panel. For
example , again using FIG . 7 as a reference , instead of being
hook - and -loop based , fastening mechanisms 40a, 40b and
41a , 41b may comprise a series of magnets 100 sewn into
the fabric of panel 22 and crown member 12 , respectively,
such as shown in FIG . 17 . The collective circumference of
crown member 12 and panel 22 maybe adjusted by fixing
additional magnets inward of seams 24a , 24b . These addi -
tional magnets allow panel 22 to be secured relative to
Nov . 15 , 2018
crown member 12 in such a way that the material of each
overlap generally along seams 24a, 24b . Unlike the hat that
is converted to the open configuration , like the example
shown in FIGS. 6 - 9 , the panel need not be twisted but can
be brought to the front of the crown member so that it lies
adjacent to an interior front surface of the crown member 12 .
In addition , magnets may also be sewn into the interior front
surface of the crown member 12 to hold it in place .
[0074 ] In yet another example , an adjustable , configurable
hat may have a flap instead of a panel. Unlike a panel, which
can substantially be completely unfastened from a crown
member, the flap is attached to the crown member along one
edge of the flap . Using FIG . 7 as a reference , the flap may
have the same size and shape as panel 22 but is attached to
crown member 12 along seam 24a . Consequently , in this
example , there is no need for fastening mechanism 40a and
41a . Fastening mechanisms 40b and 41b are still necessary
to hold the adjustable , configurable hat in a closed configu
ration . The flap would be configured to fold along seam 24a
such that exterior surface 38 of the flap would face inward
and the interior surface 46 of the flap (not shown ) would be
adjacent to interior surface 36 of crown member 12 facing
outward . Additional fastening mechanismsmay be fixed to
interior surface 36 of crown member 12 and interior surface
46 of flap (not shown) to releasably attach the flap to the
interior surface 36 of crown member 12 . When the flap is
releasably attached in this position , the adjustable , configu
rable hat 10 is in an open configuration .
[0075 ] FIG . 18 is a rear perspective view of a configurable
hat in a closed configuration according to another embodi
ment of the invention. In this particular embodiment, the hat
200 has a central seam 202 running from the top 204 of the
hat 200 to the opening 206 in the back of the hat 200 . The
seam 202 joins a left half 208 and a righthalf 210 of the back
of the hat together so that the hat is in a closed configuration .
[0076 ] FIG . 19 is a rear perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIG . 18 in an open configuration . As will
be described in greater detail hereinafter, the left and right
halves 208 and 210 have been folded back and secured
inside the hat so that the hat is now in its open configuration
to provide the large opening in the back of the hat to
accommodate various hairstyles .
10077 ] FIG . 20 is a rear perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIGS. 18 - 19 being transitioned from a
closed configuration to an open configuration . The left and
right halves 208, 210 are secured together at the central seam
202 by complementary fasteners 212 along each edge ofthe
left and right halves that formed the central seam 202. In this
particular embodiment, the fasteners are snap -type fasteners
although as will be described hereinafter other types of
fasteners may be used such as hook and loop fasteners , for
example . As shown in FIG . 20 , to transition the hat from a
closed configuration to an open configuration , the fasteners
are unfastened . Once all of the fasteners are unfastened , the
left half 208 and the right half 210 are folded back inside the
hat and are secured inside the hat as will be described .
10078 ]. FIG . 21 is a side perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIGS . 18 - 20 . It can be seen that the
opening extends from the top of the hat , the crown, to the
adjustable band 214 .
0079 ] FIG . 22 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 18 - 21 . The left half 208 of the hat, i.e ., the left flap ,
is folded back inside the hat. On the interior of the hat is a
set of fasteners 220 under a flap of material that can be
US 2018/0325201 A1
exposed so that the fasteners on the left flap can be secured
to the fasteners under the flap on the interior of the hat. By
providing the fasteners on the interior of the hat on the flap ,
the fasteners do not irritate the user when wearing the cap in
its closed configuration because the fasteners are not
exposed to the wearer 's head but are protected by the flap .
A similar configuration is provided on the other side of the
hat for the right half 210 . The terms “ left” and “ right” are
used with reference to viewing the cap from the rear exterior.
[0080] FIG . 23 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIG . 22 with a flap shown secured . As can be seen , once
the left half 208 is secured in its open configuration, the
fasteners are not exposed to the user 's head thereby provid -
ing a comfortable fit without irritating the wearer ' s scalp .
[0081] FIG . 24 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 22 -23 with both flaps shown in a secured position .
10082] FIG . 25 is a rear perspective view of a configurable
hat in a closed configuration according to another embodi-
ment of the invention . This embodiment is similar to that
shown in FIGS. 18 - 24 except that a different fastening
system is used to secure thehalves of thehat in its closed and
open configurations. In particular, instead of snap -type fas
teners, hook - and -loop - type fasteners are used such as those
commercially available under the trademark Velcro .
[0083] FIG . 26 is a rear perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIG . 25 being transitioned from a closed
configuration to an open configuration . Again , similar to the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 18 -24 , the opening in the hat
is provided by a left half and a right half that join along a
central seam in the back of the hat.
[0084] FIG . 27 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 25 - 26 . The fastening system operates the same as
s shown in FIGS. 18 - 24 except that the fasteners are
hook -and -loop type fasteners .
10085 ) FIG . 28 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIG . 27 .
[ 0086 ]. FIG . 29 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 25 - 28 with both flaps shown in a secured position .
[0087 ] FIG . 30 is a rear perspective view of a configurable
hat in a closed configuration according to another embodi
ment. In this particular embodiment, the hat 300 has a
central seam 302 running from the top 304 of the hat 300 to
an opening 306 in the back of the hat 300 . The center seam
302may alternatively start at about 1 inch below the top 304 .
The seam 302 joins a left half 308 and a right half 310 of the
back of the hat together so that the hat is in a closed
configuration much like the hats shown in FIGS. 18 - 19 and
26 .
[0088 ] FIG . 31 is a rear perspective view of the configu
rable hat shown in FIG . 30 in an open configuration . As will
be described in greater detail hereinafter, the left and right
halves 308 and 310 have been folded back and secured
inside the hat so that the hat is now in its open configuration
to provide the large opening in the back of the hat to
accommodate various hairstyles .
[ 0089 FIG . 32 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS . 30 and 31 . The left half 308 of the hat has been
unsecured from the right half 310 but the left half 308 has
not yet been secured so that the hat is in its open configu
ration . In the illustrated embodiment, the left half 308 and
the right half 310 of the hat are secured together along seam
302 by hook - and- loop type fasteners although other types of
fasteners may be used such as snap -type fasteners . The
securing means on each half 308, 310 may have a cover
Nov . 15 , 2018
much like the flap on a zipper although such a cover is not
necessary . Located on the interior of the cap is a pocket 312
to hold the left half 308 in place ( a similar pocket is located
near the right half 310 to hold it in place. The pocket 312 is
formed by a triangular piece of fabric sewn to the interior of
the hat along a first edge 314 and a second edge 316 . Edge
318 is left unsewn to form the entry to the pocket.
0090 ) FIG . 33 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS. 30 - 32 with the left half 308 shown secured in the
pocket 312 . The left half 308 is simply tucked inside the
pocket 312 which holds it in place without the need for
additional securing devices inside the pocket.
0091 ] FIG . 34 is a partial interior view of the hat shown
in FIGS . 30 - 31 with both halves shown secured in their
respective pockets.
[0092] FIG . 35 is a rear perspective view of a configurable
hat according to another embodiment of the invention . FIG .
36 is a side perspective view of the hat shown in FIG . 35 .
The hat 400 shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 uses a zipper 402 to
join the left and right halves 404 , 406 respectively together.
The zipper 402 can run in either direction , from near the
opening 408 in the hat 400 to its crown 410 or in the opposite
sense . The zipper may start at the top of the crown 410 or it
may start about 1 inch below the top of the crown 410 . The
zipper 402 is completely separable so that the flaps 404 , 406
completely detach form one another. Similar securing sys
tems as described above, for storing the halves 404 , 406
when the hat is in the open configuration may be used .
[0093] Thus, embodiments of the invention are disclosed .
Although the present invention has been described in con
siderable detail with reference to certain disclosed embodi
ments , the disclosed embodiments are presented for pur
poses of illustration and not limitation and other
embodiments of the invention are possible. One skilled in
the art will appreciate that various changes , adaptations, and
modificationsmay be made without departing from the spirit
of the invention and the scope of the appended claims.
What is claimed is:
1. A hat comprising
a headband shaped to fit about the circumference of a
person 's head ;
a crown member attached to the headband , the crown
member configured to cover a portion of a person ' s
head , the crown member comprising:
an interior surface ;
an exterior surface ; and
at least one opening in the crownmember configured to
allow an accumulation of hair to pass through the
crown member ; and
at least one panel configured to at least partially cover the
at least one opening in the crown member ;
at least one tether configured to fixably attach the at least
one panel to the crown member, the tether being visibly
hidden by the crown member from the exterior surface ;
and
a fastening system comprising at least a first and second
fastening mechanism , the first fastening mechanism
being fixed to the crown member, and the second
fastening mechanism being fixed to the at least one
panel ;
wherein the fastening system is configured to releasably
attach the at least one panel relative to the crown
member in at least two configurations :
US 2018/0325201 A1
a first configuration wherein the at least one panel is
releasably attached by the fastening system to sub
stantially cover the at least one opening in the crown
member, the fastening system and the at least one
tether being visibly hidden by the crown member
from the exterior surface ; and
a second configuration wherein the at least one panel is
releasably attached by the fastening system adjacent
to the interior surface of the crown member such that
the at least one panel does not cover the at least one
opening in the crown member, the at least one panel,
the fastening system and the at least one tether being
visibly hidden by the crown member from the exte
rior surface .
2 . The hat of claim 1 , wherein the at least one panel and
the crown member are configured to be substantially , visu
ally indistinguishable when the at least one panel is releas
ably attached by the fastening system relative to the crown
member to cover the at least one opening in the crown
member, the crown member having the appearance as
though the crown member does not comprise the at least one
opening.
3 . The hat of claim 1 , wherein the fastening system is
further configured to releasably attach the at least one panel
in at least one additional intermediate configuration relative
to the crownmember, wherein the at least one panel partially
covers the at least one opening in the crown member, the
portion of the at least one panel not covering the at least one
opening in the crown member being visibly hidden by the
crown member from the exterior surface .
4 . The hat of claim 1 , wherein there is one opening in the
crown member, the one opening in the crown member
extending vertically from the base of the crown member
toward the apex of the crown member and extending hori
zontally for one eighth to one half of the circumference of
the crown member near or at the back of the hat when the
hat is placed on a person ' s head .
5 . The hat of claim 1 , further comprising a bill attached to
the headband and extending angularly forward from the
headband and the crown member.
6 . The hat of claim 1, wherein the headband is adjustable
to accommodate different head sizes.
7 . The hat of claim 6 , wherein the headband is adjustable
using hook -and -loop .
8 . The hat of claim 6 , wherein the headband is adjustable
using adjustable snapback .
9 . The hat of claim 6 , wherein the fastening system is
further configured to releasably attach the at least one panel
in a plurality of configurations relative to the crown member ,
the plurality of configurations being purposed in varying the
collective circumference of the crown member and the
panel.
10 . The hat of claim 1, wherein the fastening system can
include any combination of fastening mechanisms, includ
ing snaps, buttons, button holes, hook - and - loop , zippers and
magnets .
11. The hat of claim 1, wherein the at least one panel is
detachable from the at least one tether.
12 . A hat comprising:
a headband shaped to fit about the circumference of a
person 's head
head;:
a crown member attached to the headband, the crown
member configured to cover a portion of a person 's
head , the crown member comprising:
Nov . 15 , 2018
an interior surface;
an exterior surface ;
at least one opening in the crown member configured to
allow an accumulation of hair to pass through the
crown member ; and
at least one flap configured to at least partially cover the
at least one opening in the crown member;
a fastening system comprising at least a first and second
fastening mechanism , the first fastening mechanism
being fixed to the crown member, and the second
fastening mechanism being fixed to the at least one
flap;
wherein the fastening system is configured to releasably
attach the at least one flap relative to the crown member
in at least two configurations:
a first configuration wherein the at least one flap is
releasably attached by the fastening system to sub
stantially cover the at least one opening in the crown
member, the fastening system being visibly hidden
by the crown member from the exterior surface; and
a second configuration wherein the at least one flap is
releasably attached by the fastening system adjacent
the interior surface of the crown member such that
the at least one flap does not cover the at least one
opening in the crown member , the at least one flap
and the fastening system being visibly hidden by the
crown member from the exterior surface .
13 . The hat of claim 12 , wherein the at least one flap and
the crown member are configured to be substantially , visu
ally indistinguishable when the at least one flap is releasably
attached by the fastening system relative to the crown
member to cover the at least one opening in the crown
member , the crown member having the appearance as
though the crown member does not comprise the at least one
flap and the at least one opening .
14 . The hat of claim 12 , wherein the fastening system is
further configured to releasably attach the at least one flap in
at least one additional intermediate configuration relative to
the crown member, wherein the at least one flap partially
covers the at least one opening in the crown member, the
portion of the at least one flap not covering the at least one
opening in the crown member being visibly hidden by the
crown member from the exterior surface.
15 . The hat of claim 12 , wherein there is one opening in
the crown member, the one opening in the crown member
extending vertically from the base of the crown member
toward the apex of the crown member and extending hori
zontally for one eighth to one half of the circumference of
the crown member near or at the back of the hat when the
hat is placed on a person 's head .
16 . The hat of claim 12 , further comprising a bill attached
to the headband and extending angularly forward from the
headband and the crown member .
17. The hat of claim 12 , wherein the headband is adjust
able to accommodate different head sizes .
18 . The hat of claim 17 , wherein the headband is adjust
able using hook -and -loop .
19 . The hat of claim 17 , wherein the headband is adjust
able using adjustable snapback .
20 . The hat of claim 17 , wherein the fastening system is
further configured to releasably attach the at least one flap in
a plurality of configurations relative to the crown member,
US 2018/0325201 A1
the plurality of configurations being purposed in varying the
collective circumference of the crown member and the
panel.
21. The hat of claim 12 , wherein the fastening system can
include any combination of fastening mechanisms, includ
ing snaps, buttons, button holes, hook -and -loop , zippers and
magnets .
22 . A hat comprising :
an adjustable headband shaped to fit about the circumfer
ence of a person ' s head ;
a crown member attached to the adjustable headband , the
crown member configured to cover a portion of a
person 's head , the crown member comprising :
an interior surface ;
an exterior surface ;
at least one opening in the crown member ; and
at least one panel configured to at least partially cover
the at least one opening in the crown member;
a fastening system being visibly hidden by the crown
member from the exterior surface , the fastening system
comprising at least a first and second fastening mecha
nism , the first fastening mechanism being fixed to the
crown member, and the second fastening mechanism
being fixed to the at least one panel;
wherein the fastening system is configured to releasably
attach the at least one panel relative to the crown
member in a plurality of configurations, the plurality of
configurations being purposed in varying the collective
circumference of the crown member and the panel.
23. The hat of claim 22 , wherein the fastening system is
further configured to releasably attach the at least one panel
relative to the at least one opening in the crown member in
such a way to substantially cover the at least one opening in
the crown member, the fastening system and the at least one
tether being visibly hidden by the crown member from the
exterior surface .
24 . The hat of claim 22 , wherein the fastening system is
further configured to releasably attach the at least one panel
relative to the at least one opening in the crown member in
such a way that the at least one panel does not cover the at
least one opening in the crown member, the at least one
panel, the fastening system and the at least one tether being
visibly hidden by the crown member from the exterior
surface; and
25 . The hat of claim 22, wherein the at least one flap and
the crown member are configured to be substantially, visu
ally indistinguishable when the at least one flap is releasably
attached by the fastening system to cover the at least one
opening in the crownmember , the crown member having the
appearance as though the crown member did not comprise
the at least one flap and the at least one opening .
26 . The hat of claim 22 , wherein there is one opening in
the crown member, the one opening in the crown member
extending vertically from the base of the crown member
toward the apex of the crown member and extending hori
zontally for one eighth to one half of the circumference of
the crown member, the one opening being centered near or
at the adjustable portion of the adjustable headband.
27 . The hat of claim 22 , wherein the at least one opening
in the crown member is configured to allow an accumulation
of hair to pass through the crown member.
28 . The hat of claim 22 , further comprising a bill attached
to the adjustable headband and extending forward from the
Nov . 15 , 2018
adjustable headband at an angle substantially orthogonal to
the adjustable headband and the crown member.
29 . The hat of claim 22 , wherein the adjustable headband
is adjusted using hook -and-loop .
30 . The hat of claim 22 , wherein the adjustable headband
is adjusted using adjustable snapback .
31 . The hat of claim 22 , wherein the fastening system can
include any combination of fastening mechanisms, includ
ing snaps, buttons, button holes, hook and loop , zippers and
magnets .
32 . The hat of claim 22 , further comprising at least one
tether configured to fixably attach the at least one panel to
the crown member, the tether being visibly hidden by the
crown member from the exterior surface
33 . The hat of claim 32 , wherein the at least one panel is
detachable from the at least one tether .
34 . A hat comprising
a headband shaped to fit about the circumference of a
person ' s head ;
a crown member attached to the headband, the crown
member configured to cover a portion of a person 's
head , the crown member comprising:
an interior surface ;
an exterior surface ; and
an opening in the crown member exposing at least
about 30 % of a person 's head; and
a panel configured to substantially cover the opening in
the crown member ;
a tether configured to fixably attach the panelto the crown
member, the tether being visibly hidden by the crown
member from the exterior surface ; and
wherein the hat can be configured in one of two configu
rations:
a closed configuration wherein the panel covers the
opening in the crown member; and
an open configuration wherein the panel does not cover
the opening in the crown member but rather lies
adjacent to the interior surface of the crown member
so that various hairstyles may pass through the
opening.
35 . A hat comprising :
a headband shaped to fit about the circumference of a
person 's head ;
a crown member attached to the headband , the crown
member configured to cover a portion of a person 's
head, the crown member comprising:
an interior surface ;
an exterior surface .
wherein the crown member includes a left half and a right
half that can be configured in one of two configura
tions:
a closed configuration wherein the left half is joined to
the right half to form a first opening in the crown
member exposing a first portion of a person ' s head ;
and an open configuration wherein the left half is not
joined to the right half and the left half and the right
half are each folded to face the interior surface of the
crown member to form a second opening in the
crown member exposing a second portion of a per
son 's head which is inclusive of the first portion , the
second opening being larger than the first opening.
36 . The hat according to claim 35 further comprising a
first and a second pocket located on the interior surface of
US 2018/0325201 A1 Nov . 15 , 2018

the crown member to accommodate the left and right halves

respectively when the crown member is configured in its
open configuration .