Systems and methods for displaying images as embroidered designs

Abstract

A method for displaying a design on a piece of apparel is provided. The method includes generating at least one design depicting an image. Next, a selection of at least one design for display is allowed. Thereafter, identification of a location on the apparel at which the design can be displayed is permitted. Subsequently, the design may be affixed to the identified location on the apparel. An apparatus and a system for displaying a design on a piece of apparel are also provided.

1 . A method for displaying a design on a piece of apparel, the method comprising: 
 generating at least one design depicting an image;    allowing for selection of at least one design for display;    permitting identification of a location at which the design can be displayed; and    affixing the design to the identified location.    
   
   
       2 . A method as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein the step of generating includes using a digitized image as a template from which the design can be generated.  
   
   
       3 . A method as set forth in  claim 2 , wherein the step of using includes obtaining a photograph or a video image to create the digitized image.  
   
   
       4 . A method as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein the step of allowing includes permitting access to the design at a store.  
   
   
       5 . A method as set forth in  claim 4 , wherein the step of permitting includes providing one of an in-store kiosk, an in-store computer, an off-site computer, a home desktop, a laptop, or a wireless handheld device for accessing the design.  
   
   
       6 . A method as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein the step of allowing includes providing a website through which entry is permitted for accessing the design.  
   
   
       7 . A method as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein the step of permitting includes marking on the apparel the location at which the design may be displayed.  
   
   
       8 . A method as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein the step of affixing includes applying the design to the apparel through one of a permanent adhesive process, embroidery, or sewing.  
   
   
       9 . A method as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein the step of affixing includes utilizing a heat press device.  
   
   
       10 . A method for displaying a design on a piece of apparel, the method comprising: 
 generating at least one design depicting a image of a public figure or a moment of an event;    allowing access to the design through an on-line website;    permitting, through the website, selection of at least one apparel and at least one design for display on the apparel;    identifying, based on the selection, a location at which the design can be displayed on the apparel;    transmitting information relating to the selections and the location to a place for affixing the design; and    affixing the design to the identified location.    
   
   
       11 . A method as set forth in  claim 10 , wherein the step of allowing includes redirecting access at one website to another website seamlessly.  
   
   
       12 . A method as set forth in  claim 10 , wherein the step of permitting includes browsing a collection of designs from which a selection can be made.  
   
   
       13 . A method as set forth in  claim 10 , wherein the step of identifying includes marking on the apparel of choice the location at which the design may be displayed.  
   
   
       14 . A method as set forth in  claim 10 , wherein the step of transmitting includes transmission of the information in real-time.  
   
   
       15 . A method as set forth in  claim 10 , wherein the step of affixing includes utilizing a heat press device.  
   
   
       16 . A device for use in displaying a design on a piece of apparel, the device comprising: 
 opposing arms pivotally attached to one another;    a handle positioned at one end of each arm to manipulate the arms relative to one another;    a plate located on each arm at an end opposite the handle for engaging the design and apparel; and    a heating mechanism associated with each plate for generating sufficient heat to permit adhesion of the design to the apparel.    
   
   
       17 . A device as set forth in  claim 16 , wherein the opposing arms may be sufficiently long to extend over or into the apparel.  
   
   
       18 . A device as set forth in  claim 16 , wherein the handle at each end of the arms can manipulate the arms to alter a distance between the plates opposite the handles.  
   
   
       19 . A device as set forth in  claim 16 , wherein each plate may include a non-stick surface for engaging the design or apparel.  
   
   
       20 . A device as set forth in  claim 16 , wherein the heating mechanism can generate heat between about 325° F. and about 375° F.  
   
   
       21 . A device as set forth in  claim 16 , further including a timer for controlling a duration for which the heating mechanism is on.  
   
   
       22 . A device as set forth in  claim 16 , further including a temperature control for varying a set temperature to be generated by the heating mechanism.  
   
   
       23 . A system for displaying a design on a piece of apparel, the system comprising: 
 a database in which a selection of different designs may be stored;    a user input in communication with the database for selecting a design and for indicating a location on the apparel at which the design may be applied;    a display monitor in communication with the user input for visualizing the selected design and location on the apparel for applying the design;    a processor for processing the input and for transmitting the input to a location for carrying out the application of the design onto the apparel; and    a device for applying the design onto the apparel.    
   
   
       24 . A system set forth in  claim 23 , wherein the user input is proximate to the database.  
   
   
       25 . A system as set forth in  claim 23 , wherein the user input remote from the database.