US20240245198A1

US20240245198A1 - Folding Travel Mirror Device

Info

Publication number: US20240245198A1
Application number: US18/354,804
Authority: US
Inventors: Angela Aguirre; Morgan Aguirre
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2023-01-23
Filing date: 2023-07-19
Publication date: 2024-07-25

Abstract

A folding travel mirror device is provided. The device is comprised of a folding travel mirror device that provides a user with a folding, full-body mirror that can be used by a user while traveling. The device is comprised of at least a first mirror and a second mirror that are attached to each other by a hinge. The mirrors are supported in a vertical position via at least one support member. The mirrors attach to the support member via a fastener and a support arm. When not in use, the device can be folded and carried via a handle.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/440,521, which was filed on Jan. 23, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of mirrors. More specifically, the present invention relates to a folding travel mirror device that provides a user with a folding, full-body mirror that can be used by a user while traveling. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Using a mirror is a common and convenient aspect of our daily routines, facilitating tasks such as getting dressed, doing our hair, or ensuring our appearance is as desired. However, circumstances arise where individuals might find themselves without access to a mirror, particularly when traveling. One specific concern that arises in such situations is the absence of a full-body mirror. This absence can be particularly frustrating for individuals who desire to have a comprehensive view of their body and outfit.
The lack of access to a full-body mirror while traveling can pose various challenges. For instance, individuals may find it difficult to determine if their clothing choices align with their intended style or if they meet cultural or professional expectations. It can be discouraging to put together an outfit thoughtfully, only to discover that it doesn't look as intended once seen in its entirety. Furthermore, without a full-body mirror, it becomes harder to identify any potential wardrobe malfunctions, such as a missing button, a crooked tie, or a wrinkled garment.
Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improved mirror. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a folding travel mirror device that can be easily transported while traveling. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a folding travel mirror that provides an easily transportable, full-body mirror.
The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a folding travel mirror device. The device is comprised of a folding travel mirror device that provides a user with a folding, full-body mirror that can be used by a user while traveling. The device is comprised of at least one a first mirror and a second mirror attached by a hinge. The mirrors are supported in a vertical position via at least one support member. The mirrors attach to the support member via a fastener and a support arm. When not in use, the device can be folded and carried via a handle.
In this manner, the folding travel mirror device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides an improved mirror. The device also provides a device that can be easily transported while traveling. More specifically, the device provides an easily transportable, full-body mirror.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a folding travel mirror device. The device is comprised of at least two mirrors; a first mirror attached to a second mirror via at least one hinge, and at least one support member. The device is designed to provide a user with a full-body mirror that can be folded/collapsed when not in use while traveling.
More specifically, the bottom edge of the first mirror attaches to a top edge of a second mirror via at least one hinge. The hinge may be any type known in the art but is preferably a locking hinge that allows the mirrors to be locked at a 180-degree angle. When unfolded, the mirrors are supported in a vertical position (i.e., 180 degrees) via at least one support member.
The support member is preferably comprised of a telescopic, tubular body that can collapse when not in use, and that can expand when in use. The member can be secured in an extended position at a desired length via at least one locking mechanism such as, but not limited to, a twisting lock, a button lock, etc. The rear surface of the first mirror is comprised of at least one fastener that attaches to the first end of the support member.
The second end of the support member is comprised of at least one pivot point that allows a user to adjust the angle of a support arm to change the overall angle of the mirrors relative to the support member. At least one support arm attaches to the pivot point via a telescoping member. The member can be locked at a specific position via at least one locking member. The adjustable length of the member allows the mirrors to rest at a plurality of angles during use.
In the preferred embodiment, the device has three support arms, wherein each arm is connected by at least one secondary pivot point. The pivot point allows a user to position the arms at a plurality of locations on the bottom edge of the second mirror to support the second mirror. To prevent movement of the second mirror, each support arm is comprised of at least one lip. The lip prevents the second mirror from sliding.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using the device. First, a device is provided comprised of a first mirror comprised of at least one fastener, the first mirror attached to a second mirror via at least one hinge, and at least one support member comprised of at least one locking mechanism and at least one support arm. Then, the mirrors can be unfolded such that the mirrors are flat (i.e., form a 180-degree angle). Next, the support member is expanded to a desired height and locked at said height via the locking mechanism. Then, the fastener is attached to a first end of a support member. Next, the lip of the support arm is positioned underneath the bottom edge of the second mirror by moving the support arm about a secondary pivot point.
Accordingly, the folding travel mirror device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides an improved mirror. The device also provides a device that can be easily transported while traveling. More specifically, the device provides an easily transportable, full-body mirror. In this manner, the folding travel mirror device provides a solution to accessing and carrying a full-body mirror while traveling.
To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a folding travel mirror device of the present invention while unfolded, partially unfolded, and folded in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates an enhanced perspective view of a rear surface of a first mirror and a first end of a support member in one potential embodiment of a folding travel mirror device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a folding travel mirror device of the present invention while extended in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 4 illustrates an enhanced perspective view of a second end of a support member of one potential embodiment of a folding travel mirror device of the present invention while extended in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a folding travel mirror device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.
As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improved mirror. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a folding travel mirror device that can be easily transported while traveling. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a folding travel mirror that provides an easily transportable, full-body mirror.
The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a folding travel mirror device. The device is comprised of at least two mirrors; a first mirror attached to a second mirror via at least one hinge, and at least one support member. The device is designed to provide a user with a full-body mirror that can be folded/collapsed when not in use while traveling.
The bottom edge of the first mirror attaches to a top edge of a second mirror via at least one hinge. The hinge may be any type known in the art but is preferably a locking hinge that allows the mirrors to be locked at a 180-degree angle. When unfolded, the mirrors are supported in a vertical position (i.e., 180 degrees) via at least one support member.
The support member is preferably comprised of a telescopic, tubular body that can collapse when not in use and that can expand when in use. The member can be secured in an extended position at a desired length via at least one locking mechanism such as, but not limited to, a twisting lock, a button lock, etc. The rear surface of the first mirror is comprised of at least one fastener that attaches to the first end of the support member.
The second end of the support member is comprised of at least one pivot point. The pivot point allows a user to adjust the angle of a support arm to change the overall angle of the mirrors relative to the support member. At least one support arm attaches to the pivot point via a telescoping member. The member can be locked at a specific position via at least one locking member. The adjustable length of the member allows the mirrors to rest at a plurality of angles during use.
In the preferred embodiment, the device has three support arms. In this embodiment, each arm is connected by at least one secondary pivot point that allows a user to position the arms at a plurality of locations on the bottom edge of the second mirror to support the second mirror. To prevent movement of the second mirror, each support arm is comprised of at least one lip. The lip prevents the second mirror from sliding.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using the device. First, a device is provided comprised of a first mirror comprised of at least one fastener, the first mirror attached to a second mirror via at least one hinge, and at least one support member comprised of at least one locking mechanism and at least one support arm. Then, the mirrors can be unfolded such that the mirrors are flat (i.e., form a 180-degree angle). Next, the support member is expanded to a desired height and locked at said height via the locking mechanism. Then, the fastener is attached to a first end of a support member. Next, the lip of the support arm is positioned underneath the bottom edge of the second mirror by moving the support arm about a secondary pivot point.
Accordingly, the folding travel mirror device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides an improved mirror. The device also provides a device that can be easily transported while traveling. More specifically, the device provides an easily transportable, full-body mirror. In this manner, the folding travel mirror device provides a solution to accessing and carrying a full-body mirror while traveling.
Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a folding travel mirror device 100 of the present invention while unfolded, partially unfolded, and folded in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is comprised of at least two mirrors 110,130; a first mirror 110 attached to a second mirror 130 via at least one hinge 120, and at least one support member 150. The device 100 is designed to provide a user with a full-body mirror that can be folded/collapsed when not in use while traveling.
The device 100 is comprised of at least two mirrors 110,120 of any type known in the art. The mirrors 110,120 are preferably square or rectangular in shape. A bottom edge 111 of the first mirror 110 attaches to a top edge 132 of a second mirror 130 via at least one hinge 120. The hinge 120 may be any type known in the art but is preferably a locking hinge 120 that allows the mirrors 110,120 to be locked at a 180-degree angle.
In one embodiment, one mirror 110,120 is comprised of at least one handle 140 that allows the device 100 to be carried when folded. The device 100 is further secured in a folded position for transport. The device 100 may be secured in a folded position via at least one fastener 180 such as, but not limited to, hook and loop straps, snap button straps, magnetic straps, etc.
When unfolded, the mirrors 110,120 are supported in a vertical position (i.e., 180 degrees) via at least one support member 150. The support member 150 is preferably comprised of a telescopic, tubular body that can collapse when not in use, and that can expand when in use (as seen in FIG. 3 ). The member 150 can be secured in an extended position at a desired length via at least one locking mechanism 160 such as, but not limited to, a twisting lock, a button lock, etc.
The first end 152 of the support member 150 is comprised of at least one opening 154. The rear surface 114 of the first mirror 110 is comprised of at least one fastener 116, as seen in FIG. 2 . The fastener 116 is preferably attached to the rear surface 114 via at least one pivot point 115 to allow a user to adjust the angle of the fastener 116 within a range of 180 degrees. This allows a user to change the angle of the first mirror 110 (and subsequently the second mirror 130 and all other mirrors of the device 100) during use. In the preferred embodiment, the fastener 116 is comprised of a first clip 117 that is secured within the opening 154 and a second clip 118 that is secured around the first end 152. However, the fastener 116 may be any type known in the art such as, but not limited to, magnet, clip, clamp, screw, tongue, groove, etc., that allows the first mirror 110 to removably attach to the support member 150. Each mirror 110,120 may be comprised of the fastener 116 in one embodiment to allow each mirror 110,120 to securely attach to the support member 150.
The second end 170 is comprised of at least one pivot point 172. The pivot point 172 allows a user to adjust the angle of a support arm 176 to change the overall angle of the mirrors 110,120 relative to the support member 150. The pivot point 172 may be any type known in the art such as, but not limited to, a locking hinge, a locking dial, etc.
At least one support arm 176 attaches to the pivot point 172 via a telescoping member 190. The member 190 can be locked at a specific position via at least one locking member 190 such as, but not limited to, a twisting lock, a button lock, etc. The adjustable length of the member 190 allows the mirrors 110,130 to rest at a plurality of angles during use.
In the preferred embodiment, the device 100 has three support arms 176, wherein each arm 176 is connected by at least one secondary pivot point 174, as seen in FIG. 4 . The second pivot point 174 may be any type known in the art such as, but not limited to, a locking hinge, a locking dial, etc. The pivot point 174 allows a user to position the arms 176 at a plurality of locations on the bottom edge 134 of the second mirror 130 to support the second mirror 130. To prevent movement of the second mirror 130, each support arm 176 is comprised of at least one lip 178 that prevents the second mirror 130 from sliding.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 5 . First, a device 100 is provided comprised of a first mirror 110 comprised of at least one fastener 116, the first mirror 110 attached to a second mirror 130 via at least one hinge 120, and at least one support member 150 comprised of at least one locking mechanism 160 and at least one support arm 176 [Step 202]. Then, the mirrors 110,130 can be unfolded such that the mirrors are flat (i.e., form a 180-degree angle) [Step 204]. Next, the support member 150 is expanded to a desired height and locked at said height via the locking mechanism 160 [Step 206]. Then, the fastener 116 is attached to a first end 152 of a support member 150 [Step 208]. Next, a lip 178 of the support arm 176 is positioned underneath the bottom edge 134 of the second mirror 130 by moving the support arm 176 about a secondary pivot point 174 [Step 210].
Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons, may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “folding travel mirror device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the folding travel mirror device 100 of the present invention.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the folding travel mirror device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the size, configuration, and material of the folding travel mirror device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and many other sizes and shapes of the folding travel mirror device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the folding travel mirror device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the folding travel mirror device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.
Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.
What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A folding travel mirror device comprising:

a first mirror comprised of a rear surface, the rear surface comprised of a first fastener;

a second mirror;

a hinge attached to a bottom edge of a first mirror and to a top edge of the second mirror; and

a telescopic support member comprised of a locking member, and a support arm attached to the telescopic support member via a telescopic member that attaches to a pivot point.

2. The folding travel mirror device of claim 1, wherein the first mirror is comprised of a handle.

3. The folding travel mirror device of claim 1, wherein the hinge is comprised of a locking hinge.

4. The folding travel mirror device of claim 1, wherein the hinge has a 180-degree range of motion.

5. The folding travel mirror device of claim 1, wherein the locking member is comprised of a locking button or a twisting lock.

6. The folding travel mirror device of claim 1 further comprised of a second fastener that secures the folding travel mirror device in a folded position.

7. The folding travel mirror device of claim 6, wherein the second fastener is comprised of a hook and loop strap, a snap button strap, or a magnetic strap.

8. A folding travel mirror device comprising:

a second mirror;

a telescopic support member comprised of a locking member, a support arm comprised of a lip, wherein the support arm is attached to a telescopic support via a telescopic member, and further wherein the telescopic member is attached to the telescopic support member via a pivot point.

9. The folding travel mirror device of claim 8, wherein the first fastener attaches to the rear surface via a second pivot point.

10. The folding travel mirror device of claim 9, wherein the first fastener is comprised of a first clip and a second clip.

11. The folding travel mirror device of claim 8, wherein the telescoping support member is comprised of an opening.

12. The folding travel mirror device of claim 11, wherein the opening receives the first clip.

13. The folding travel mirror device of claim 8, wherein the first pivot point is comprised of a hinge or a locking dial.

14. The folding travel mirror device of claim 8, wherein the first mirror is comprised of a first handle.

15. The folding travel mirror device of claim 8, wherein the second mirror is comprised of a second handle.

16. The folding travel mirror device of claim 8 further comprised of a second fastener.

17. The folding travel mirror device of claim 16, wherein the second fastener is comprised of a hook and loop strap, a snap button strap, or a magnetic strap.

18. The folding travel mirror device of claim 8, wherein the hinge has a 180-degree range of motion.

19. A method of using a folding travel mirror device, the method comprising the following steps:

providing a folding travel mirror device comprised of a first mirror comprised of a fastener, the first mirror attached to a second mirror via a hinge, and a support member comprised of a locking mechanism and a support arm;

unfolding the first mirror and the second mirror;

expanding the support member to a desired height and locking the support member at said height via the locking mechanism;

attaching the fastener to a first end of the support member; and

positioning a lip of the support arm underneath a bottom edge of the second mirror by moving the support arm about a pivot point.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the hinge is comprised of a locking hinge.