Magnetic fastener for competitive athletics

摘要

Embodiments of the invention affix numbering indicators to clothing of competitors during competitive events. A strong magnetic attraction in conjunction with an interaction between a projection on the bottom surface of a top magnetically attractive member and a hole in the bottom magnetically attractive member resists movement of the numbering indicator, while allowing lateral repositioning. The two magnetically attractive members can be encased in a water-resistant material to prevent degradation or discoloration by exposure to sweat. A graphical layer affixed to the upper surface of the top magnetically attractive member can display a custom visual depiction, such as a brand logo or advertisement. Additionally, a transparent layer can be affixed to the graphical layer to protect it from degradation while also permitting a substantially clear view of the visual depiction.

主权项

1. A magnetic fastener comprising:
a first magnetically attractive element recessed within a casing, said casing having a dome-shaped center projection extending away from the first magnetically attractive element and toward a second magnetically attractive element; said second magnetically attractive element having a center opening, said center opening being large enough to accommodate the center projection of the casing; said dome-shaped center projection having a height sufficient to exert a force against two or more layers of material that are disposed together between said first and second magnetically attractive elements when the dome-shaped center projection of the first magnetically attractive element is brought into close proximity and alignment with the center opening of the second magnetically attractive element; said force being strong enough to hold said two or more layers of material against each other; said force being weak enough to permit a positional adjustment of one of the layers of material relative to another of the layers of material.