FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present techniques generally relate to apparatuses for adjusting fabric, and in particular to apparatuses for repeatedly and reversibly adjusting the size or dimensions of items of clothing such as shirts.

BACKGROUND

Many people purchase clothes from clothing shops that sell clothes in specific sizes. However, people's bodies vary in shape, which means that the fit of the clothes may not be the same on everyone. For example, shirts are often sold by collar size, where the collar size is somehow proportional to the chest size. However, a person may have a large neck but a small chest, and a shirt that matches their collar/neck size may be too baggy or loose around their chest or torso. Due to a general lack of standardisation in clothing sizes across stores, and the increase in online purchasing of items of clothing in recent decades, a problem has furthermore arisen where consumers may want to buy items of clothing remotely through online channels, for reasons of speed or ease, yet often acknowledge that to do is to take a gamble: consumers frequently cannot know with any real degree of certainty whether such items of clothing will fit upon delivery, and thus function in the way desired. Return rates in the clothing e- commerce industry are, as a result, high, and with fit often considered a top priority among those purchasing clothing, this problem can be considered a major limiting factor holding back the growth of this industry as a whole.

More generally, a person may buy an item of clothing in one size but may lose or gain weight after making the purchase. In another example, items of clothing that constitute a uniform for employees or people in the defence and security sectors may be purchased in bulk in a single size or limited range of sizes. In such cases, it may be desirable to adjust the item of clothing so that it better fits the wearer. However, bespoke tailoring is expensive, and many people do not have the time or sewing skills to adjust the items of clothing themselves; alterations made in this way can often not be undone, and once purchased tailored clothing can often only be tightened or made smaller in response to changes in body shape, and not loosened or made larger.

Also, certain occupations at times require different fit of clothing for the different contexts within which they variously operate, whether industrial, engineering, security, defence or other, and in such cases it is desirable to offer the option to adjust fit and tightness easily and at will. Similarly, consumers may find it desirable to switch between modes of fit for reasons of style (fashion), comfort or other pertinent reasons. In certain contexts, easily increasing or decreasing size and fit of clothing at will may have health, security, mobility and other beneficial effects.

Finally, allowing clothing to be adjusted to the body of the wearer allows for the integration of various technologies and sensors which rely on good skin contact and good fit for their accuracy. This means that clothing can become a platform for embedding such technologies, whether for the purpose of health monitoring, intuitive control of digital devices, or for other purposes.

SUMMARY

The present applicant has identified the need to provide clothing than can be more easily adjusted to fit a user.

In a first approach of the present techniques, there is provided an apparatus for adjusting a size of an item of clothing formed of fabric, the apparatus comprising: a rotatable rod arranged to, when rotated, pull a portion of the fabric and wrap the portion of fabric around the rod; and a locking mechanism for holding the rod in one of a plurality of positions. The apparatus may be used to adjust the size and/or fit of an item of clothing. Advantageously, as described in more detail below, the apparatus may be used to repeatedly and reversibly adjust the size and/or fit of an item of clothing more easily than traditional alteration methods (such as tailoring).

The term "fabric" is used herein to mean any material suitable for forming clothing, such as cotton, nylon, wool, silk, linen, materials formed from weaving threads, natural materials, synthetic materials (such as polyester and viscose), rubber, synthetic rubber (such as neoprene), and mixtures of two or more materials. It will be understood that this is a non-exhaustive and non-limiting example list of fabrics.

One or more apparatuses may be attached to an item of clothing post manufacture to enable the size of the item of clothing to be adjusted. Thus, the apparatus may be removable from the item of clothing. In this case, the item of clothing may need to have been manufactured in a way that accommodates the apparatus. In some cases, items of clothing may incorporate one or more apparatuses during the manufacturing process - in this instance, the apparatus may not be removable.

As the apparatus may be permanently or removably attached to an item of clothing, it may be advantageous to form the apparatus from washable or water- resilient materials. Additionally, the apparatus may be formed from a material that is rigid enough to maintain its shape and form when clothing incorporating the apparatus is worn. For example, the apparatus may be formed from fibreglass, metal, plastic, or even wood. It will be understood that this is a non- exhaustive and non-limiting example list of materials.

The number of apparatuses that are attached to an item of clothing may vary for each user or for each item of clothing. As will be explained below with reference to the drawings, one apparatus may be used on each sleeve of a shirt to enable each sleeve to be adjusted to suit the arm of the wearer. Similarly, one or more apparatuses may be provided along the back of a shirt to enable the fit of the shirt around a wearer's torso to be adjusted. Each apparatus may be separately operated to adjust the fit of the shirt to suit the body shape or style preferences of the wearer. The apparatus may be provided along a natural seam in an item of clothing (or in locations where a tailor would adjust an item of clothing), may be provided in a location that would enable the size of the item of clothing to be adjusted in a discrete manner (i.e. where the apparatus would not be easily seen), may be provided in a location where the fabric can be gathered evenly, or a location that is considered most visually pleasing. When the apparatus is attached to an item of clothing, the rotatable rod, when rotated, causes the fabric/material of the clothing to become wrapped around the rod. When a sufficient amount of material has been wrapped around the rod to achieve the required/desired size adjustment, the locking mechanism of the apparatus is used to lock the rod in position. This helps to maintain the fabric around the rod.

The rod may be a spring, for example a coiled spring.

The rod (and apparatus as a whole) may be configured to move between a linear and a non-linear (e.g. curved) arrangement. The rod may be bendable. The rod may be rotatable, and thus the apparatus may be operational, with the rod in both a linear and non-linear arrangement. The use of a coiled spring as the rod may allow the rod to flex to adopt a curved arrangement during use. This may increase the comfort of the device, when used.

The locking mechanism may be configured to hold the rod in one of a plurality of positions by resisting rotation of the rod in at least one direction, for preventing unwrapping of the fabric from the rod.

The locking mechanism may prevent the fabric from inadvertently unwrapping from the rod during use.

If the size of the clothing needs to be made smaller or tighter still, the rod could be rotated further, and locked in a new position. If, after making an adjustment to decrease the size of the clothing, the size of the clothing needs to be made larger or looser, the locking mechanism may be released and the fabric that is wrapped around the rod may be pulled. If too much fabric is pulled, the rod can be used to tighten the clothing as desired. In other words, the apparatus may be used to tighten or decrease the size of clothing, as the rotation of the rod exerts a force on the fabric and causes it to be wrapped around the rod. However, rotating the rod in the opposite direction does not necessarily cause the fabric to unwrap or unwind from the rod - rather, a wearer or user needs to pull on the fabric to exert the necessary force to unwrap the fabric from around the rod. The fabric of the item of clothing needs to be coupled to the rod so that when the rod is rotated, the fabric wraps around the rod. There are a number of ways to couple the fabric to the rod.

For example, the rod may comprise at least one opening along a length of the rod for coupling the fabric to the rod. The at least one opening may be a slit extending along a portion of the length of the rod. In this case, the fabric may extend through the slit. If the item of clothing is manufactured with the apparatus, the fibres of the fabric could be weaved through the slit such that the woven fabric extends through the slit, or two pieces of fabric could be sewn together through the slit.

Alternatively, the at least one opening may comprise at least one hole through the rod in a direction perpendicular to the length of the rod. The at least one hole may be a diametrical hole (i.e. through the diameter of the rod) or may pass through the rod in a direction parallel to the diameter. The at least one hole may be used to stitch the fabric to the rod. Thus, it may be beneficial to have multiple holes along the rod to couple the fabric, by stitching. Furthermore, it is desirable that an even force is applied to the fabric when the rod is rotated, so that the fabric is wrapped around the rod in an even or uniform manner. A single hole near the centre of the length of the rod may achieve this, but multiple holes may better enable this. Thus, the at least one hole may comprise a first hole located near a first end of the rod and a second hole located near a second end of the rod, such that force is applied more evenly to the portion of fabric that is being wrapped around the rod.

The apparatus may further comprise a fastening element to attach the fabric to the rod. A fastening element may be provided at both ends and in the middle of the rod, for attaching the fabric to the rod.

The use of a fastening element may provide a robust and reusable mechanism for attaching fabric to the rod.

The fastening element may be a mechanical fastening element, for example a clip, tie or strap. The fastening element may be an adhesive. This may be useful if the rod does not have an opening to couple the fabric to the rod. However, the adhesive may also be used in the cases when the rod does have at least one opening. The adhesive may be any suitable adhesive for bonding the fabric to the rod. Preferably, the adhesive may be water-resilient.

The fastening element may comprise at least one stitch through the at least one opening (e.g. slit or hole(s)) to attach the fabric to the rod.

The apparatus may further comprise a wheel for rotating the rod, wherein the wheel is coupled to a first end of the rod. Thus, when the wheel is rotated, the rod rotates. The wheel may be mechanically operated by a user. Alternatively, the apparatus may further comprise a motor coupled, or a removable motor which can be coupled, to the wheel and arranged to, when activated, automatically turn the wheel. Thus, in some cases, a user may be able to switch a motor on and off to rotate the rod.

The wheel may be a grip.

The wheel may further comprise a plurality of teeth. In this case, the locking mechanism may comprise at least one detent, notch or groove engageable with one of the plurality of teeth. Thus, the wheel may be locked in position when a tooth engages with a detent, and once the wheel is locked, the rod is also locked in position.

The locking mechanism may engage with a first end of the rod and may comprise: a ratchet comprising at least one angled tooth to enable rotation of the rotatable rod in one direction only. The wheel may comprise a plurality of teeth which engage with the at least one angled tooth of the ratchet. In this way, the wheel may only be able to rotate in one direction when engaged with the ratchet. The ratchet of the locking mechanism may therefore prevent the rod from rotating in the opposite direction. However, the ratchet may not prevent the rod from continuing to rotate in a direction that causes fabric to wrap around the rod. Alternatively, the locking mechanism may comprise: a hollow tube, wherein the first end of the rod is provided inside the hollow tube parallel to an axial direction of the hollow tube; and a ratchet comprising at least one angled tooth to enable rotation of the rotatable rod in one direction only. This locking mechanism may prevent the rod from rotating in either direction.

In this case, the ratchet may be provided on a first portion of an inner surface of the hollow tube. The locking mechanism may further comprise at least one groove formed on a second portion of an inner surface of the hollow tube, where the second portion is adjacent to the first portion in an axial direction.

The apparatus may further comprise a turn-wheel engaged with the hollow tube and the first end of the rod, the turn-wheel comprising: a wheel portion provided outside one end of the hollow tube and forming a cap on the hollow tube; and a body portion provided inside the hollow tube, wherein the body portion is moveable along the axial direction within the hollow tube. That is, the body portion is able to slide within the hollow tube along the axial direction. Thus, the body portion may be moved between a first position in the hollow tube in which the body portion is able to rotate, and a second position in the hollow tube in which the body portion is unable to rotate.

The body portion may comprise: at least one protrusion on an external surface of the body portion, wherein, when the body portion is in a first position, the at least one protrusion may engage with the at least one angled tooth of the ratchet, and the body portion may be able to rotate relative to the hollow tube. When the body portion is in a second position, the at least one protrusion may engage with the at least one groove of the locking mechanism, and the body portion may be locked in position relative to the hollow tube.

The body portion may comprise a projection, and the rod may comprise a slot at the first end of the rod. The projection of the body portion is provided in the slot of the rod, thereby coupling the body portion of the turn-wheel to the rod. Thus, when the turn-wheel is rotated, the rod rotates. The wheel portion of the turn-wheel may comprise a plurality of teeth, and the hollow tube may comprise at least one detent, notch or groove engageable with one of the plurality of teeth. Thus, the wheel portion may be locked in position when a tooth engages with a detent, and once the wheel portion is locked, the rod is also locked in position.

In another example, the locking mechanism may engage with a first end of the rod. The locking mechanism may comprise a ratchet. The ratchet may be configured to move between an engaged configuration, in which the ratchet permits rotation of the rod in a first direction and resists rotation of the rod in a second direction; and a disengaged configuration, in which the ratchet permits rotation of the rod in the first and second directions.

The ratchet may be configured to hold the rod in one of a plurality of positions to resist unintentional unwrapping of the fabric from the rod.

The ratchet may comprise a first ratchet surface configured to rotate with the rod. The ratchet may comprise a second ratchet surface. In the engaged configuration, the rod and first ratchet surface may be able to rotate in a first direction and rotation in a second direction may be resisted by interaction of the first and second ratchet surfaces. In the disengaged configuration, the rod and first ratchet surface may be free to rotate in a first and second direction. The first ratchet surface may be configured to move away from the second ratchet surface to move the ratchet from the engaged configuration to the disengaged configuration. The first ratchet surface may be configured to move towards the second ratchet surface to move the ratchet from the disengaged to the engaged configuration.

The first ratchet surface may be directly or indirectly connected to the rod, for example such that the first ratchet surface rotates with the rod. The first ratchet surface may comprise a plurality of angled teeth. The first ratchet surface may be arranged perpendicular to the axis of the rod.

The second ratchet surface may be connected to part of the apparatus with respect to which the rod rotates. For example, the second ratchet surface may be connected to the casing. The second ratchet surface may comprise a plurality of angled teeth. The teeth of the second ratchet surface may be arranged in an orientation so as to engage, or mesh with, the first ratchet surface. In some examples, both the first and second ratchet surfaces may comprise angled teeth. In an alternative example, only one of the first and second ratchet surfaces may comprise angled teeth, with the other comprising a surface configured to engage the angled teeth - e.g. comprising a projection or ridge.

The ratchet surfaces may be configured to permit rotation in the first direction - for example to wrap fabric around the rod - in both an engaged and disengaged configuration. The ratchet surfaces may be configured to resist rotation in the second direction - for example to unwrap fabric from the rod - in an engaged configuration. The ratchet surfaces may be configured to permit rotation in the second direction in a disengaged configuration.

One of the first and second ratchet surfaces may be configured to move away from the other to go from an engaged to a disengaged configuration. The movement may be in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the first and/or second ratchet surface. The movement may be parallel to an axis of the rod.

The apparatus may comprise a pin and a slot for facilitating movement of the first and second ratchet surfaces between the engaged and disengaged configuration. The pin may be located in the slot and configured to traverse the slot. Relative movement of the pin in the slot may act to move the first and second ratchet surfaces between the engaged and disengaged configurations.

A first one of the pin and slot may be associated with one of the first and second ratchet surfaces. The other of the pin and slot may be associated with a part of the apparatus that is fixed with respect to the other of the first and second ratchet surfaces.

The first ratchet surface may be provided on a first ratchet component. The first ratchet component may comprise one of a pin and a slot. The apparatus may comprise the other of the pin and the slot. The pin and slot may be configured to engage such that relative movement of the pin within the slot moves the first ratchet surface towards and/or away from the second ratchet surface to move the ratchet between the engaged and disengaged configurations.

The slot may comprise a portion aligned perpendicular to the first and second ratchet surfaces - for example to facilitate movement of rotation of the rod in the first direction when the first and second ratchet surfaces are engaged.

The slot may comprise a portion at an oblique angle with respect to the first and second ratchet surfaces - for example to facilitate separation of the first and second ratchet surfaces as the pin traverses this portion of the slot.

The apparatus may comprise a grip for rotating the rod.

The grip may comprise the other of the pin and the slot (e.g. to engage with the pin or slot located on the first ratchet component). Rotation of the grip relative to the first ratchet component may move the ratchet from the engaged to the disengaged configuration.

The grip may be directly or indirectly connected to the rod. The grip may be rotationally constrained with respect to the rod, such that rotation of the grip rotates the rod. A certain amount of rotation of the grip with respect to the rod may be permissible (e.g. to move the ratchet to the disengaged configuration).

The first ratchet component may be located concentrically within, or around, the grip. The first ratchet component may comprise the first of the pin and slot, the grip may comprise the other. The pin and slot may be configured such that relative rotation of the grip with respect to the first ratchet component causes axial movement of the first ratchet component (e.g. with respect to the grip and/or the second ratchet surface). This axial movement may move the ratchet from the engaged to the disengaged configuration.

The first ratchet component may be connected to the rod (either directly or indirectly). For example, such that rotation of the first ratchet component results in rotation of the rod. The grip may be configured to couple to a motor, for example an electric motor. The grip may comprise an interface for connection to an electric motor, such that the grip can be rotated by the motor as described herein.

The locking mechanism may be configured to bias the ratchet into an engaged configuration. The locking mechanism may comprise a biasing member for urging the first and second ratchet surfaces into engagement. The first and second ratchet surfaces (or first and second ratchet components) may be biased towards one another. The first ratchet component may be biased towards the second ratchet surface.

The locking mechanism may comprise a spring, configured to urge the first ratchet surface towards the second ratchet surface. The spring may be located in the grip.

The slot and pin may be configured to move the ratchet from the engaged to the disengaged configuration, against the action of the biasing member.

The apparatus may further comprise a bearing member. The bearing member may connect the first ratchet surface to the rod. The bearing member may be rotationally fixed with respect to the rod and the first ratchet surface. The bearing member may be axially fixed but free to rotate with respect to the second ratchet surface.

The bearing member may extend between the first and second ratchet surfaces. The bearing member may be fixed with respect to the first ratchet component such that rotation of the first ratchet component rotates the bearing member. The bearing member may be fixed with respect to the rod such that rotation of the bearing member rotates the rod.

A second ratchet component may comprise the second ratchet surface. The bearing member may be axially fixed, but free to rotate, within the second ratchet component. The apparatus may be configured such that rotation of the grip in a first direction rotates the rod in a direction for wrapping fabric around the rod. The apparatus may be configured such that an initial rotation of the grip in a second direction moves the ratchet from the engaged configuration to the disengaged configuration. The apparatus may be configured such that further, or continued, rotation of the grip in the second direction rotates the rod in a direction for unwrapping fabric from the rod.

The apparatus may comprise a casing provided around at least a portion of the length of the rod, the casing comprising at least one opening, wherein the fabric extends through the at least one opening. Where the casing has two openings, the fabric may extend through one opening, be coupled with the rod, and extend out of the other opening. The casing may be provided to strengthen the apparatus, conceal and/or hold the gathered fabric, or to make the apparatus more rigid and prevent the rod from being twisted rather than rotated.

The casing may comprise a substantially "C"-shaped cross-section e.g. a horseshoe shaped cross-section. The open portion of the cross-section may define the opening.

The casing may be formed of a series of connected sections. The sections may be configured to move relative to each other, for example such that the casing can bend between a linear arrangement and a non-linear arrangement. Each section may be configured to move relative to its neighbour. Relative movement of the series of connected sections may provide the casing with a degree of flexibility.

The casing may comprise a flexible fastener for connecting the sections.

The sections may be plates. Each plate may define an opening. The apparatus may further comprise a flexible fastener that extends through each of the openings to connect the plates.

The sections may be thin plates. The casing may comprise a series of parallel plates arranged in a column. The plates may be interconnected by means of a flexible fastener. A flexible fastener may be threaded through and connect all of the series of plates. The apparatus may comprise a plurality of flexible fasteners. The flexible fastener(s) may extend the length of the rod.

The flexible fastener may be connected at a first end to the second ratchet surface or second ratchet component. The flexible fastener may be connected at a second end to an end stop of the apparatus.

In a second approach of the present techniques, there is provided an item of clothing comprising at least one apparatus of the types described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Implementations of the present techniques will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a sketch showing the locations where an apparatus for adjusting the size of an item of clothing may be provided on an item of clothing;

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a first example of an apparatus for adjusting the size of an item of clothing;

Figure 3A shows a second example of an apparatus for adjusting the size of an item of clothing;

Figure 3B shows a variant of the second example of Figure 3A;

Figure 3C shows the second example with a bearing component;

Figure 4A and 4B show, respectively, a side view and a cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism of the second example apparatus shown in Figure 3A;

Figure 5 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of Figure 3A; Figure 6A shows a perspective view of a turn-wheel of the second example apparatus shown in Figure 3A;

Figure 6B shows a perspective view of a rod of the second example apparatus shown in Figure 3A;

Figure 6C shows a cross-sectional view of the turn-wheel and rod when coupled together;

Figure 7A shows a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 3A comprising a casing, and Figure 7B shows a perspective view of fabric extending through the casing;

Figure 8A and 8B show an apparatus operated by a motor;

Figure 9 shows a further example of an apparatus for adjusting the size of an item of clothing;

Figures 10A to IOC show a further example of an apparatus for adjusting the size of an item of clothing;

Figure 11 shows an exploded view of a locking mechanism;

Figures 12A and 12B are cross-sectional views of a locking mechanism;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of a plate for use in the apparatus;

Figure 14 is a perspective view of an end piece for use in the apparatus;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a second ratchet component for use in the apparatus;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of a grip for use in the apparatus; Figures 17A and 17B are perspective views of a bearing member for use in the apparatus; and

Figures 18A and 18B are perspective views of a first ratchet component for use in the apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Broadly speaking, the present techniques generally relate to an apparatus for adjusting the size of items of clothing. The apparatus comprises a gathering mechanism. The gathering mechanism may be or may comprise a rotatable rod which, when rotated, causes a portion of fabric to wrap around the rod. The apparatus also comprises a locking mechanism for holding the rod in one of multiple positions. Advantageously, a large or loose item of clothing may be made smaller or tighter without requiring tailoring or without permanently altering the item of clothing.

Figure 1 is a sketch showing the locations where an apparatus for adjusting the size of an item of clothing may be provided on an item of clothing 100. In this case, the item of clothing 100 is a shirt but it will be understood that this is merely a non-limiting example of clothing which could be adjusted using the apparatus described herein. For example, the item of clothing may be any of: jackets, coats, dresses, underwear, swimwear, suits, vests, uniforms, t-shirts, long sleeve shirts, jumpers, wrist bands, sleeve bands, sleeves, scarfs, hats, caps, pockets on items of clothing, trousers, jeans and socks. It will be understood that this is a non- exhaustive and non-limiting list. The at least one apparatus is not limited to adjusting the size of items of clothing. Broadly speaking, the size of any flexible material, which has similar properties such as a piece of cloth, may be adjusted by the apparatus.

Some of the potential positions 200 in the shirt 100 where the apparatus may be incorporated is shown in Figure 1. The apparatus may be provided along a natural seam in an item of clothing (or in locations where a tailor would adjust an item of clothing), may be provided in a location that would enable the size of the item of clothing to be adjusted in a discrete manner (i.e. where the apparatus would not be easily seen), may be provided in a location where the fabric can be gathered evenly, or a location that is considered most visually pleasing. The apparatus may be placed, for example, in a collar area, chest area, spine line, shoulder area, wrist area and forearm area. Provision of the at least one apparatus in these areas may provide more efficient manipulation of the size of the shirts. However, the at least one apparatus may be placed in other areas of the shirt 100.

An apparatus may be attached to the item of clothing 100 post-manufacture at one of the attachment positions 200 to enable the size of the item of clothing 100 to be adjusted, provided that the shirt 100 has enough space reserved for the at least one apparatus. Thus, the apparatus may be removable from the item of clothing 100. In this case, the item of clothing may need to have been manufactured in a way that accommodates the apparatus. In some cases, items of clothing 100 may incorporate one or more apparatuses during the manufacturing process - in this instance, the apparatus may not be removable. In other words, the at least one apparatus may be built into the shirt 100.

The number of apparatuses that are attached to an item of clothing may vary for each user or for each item of clothing. As shown in Figure 1, one apparatus may be used on each sleeve of a shirt to enable each sleeve to be adjusted to suit the arm of the wearer. Similarly, one or more apparatuses may be provided along the back of a shirt to enable the fit of the shirt around a wearer's torso to be adjusted. Each apparatus may be separately operated to adjust the fit of the shirt to suit the body shape or style preferences of the wearer.

As mentioned above, the apparatus for adjusting a size of an item of clothing formed of fabric comprises: a rotatable rod arranged to, when rotated, pull a portion of the fabric and wrap the portion of fabric around the rod; and a locking mechanism for holding the rod in one of a plurality of positions. Example apparatuses are now described with reference to the Figures.

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a first example of an apparatus 200 for adjusting the size of an item of clothing formed of fabric. The apparatus 200 comprises a rotatable rod 202 which, when rotated, pulls on a portion of the fabric (not shown) and wraps the portion around the rod 202. The rod may be rotated by rotating an end of the rod, e.g. end 206, or both ends of the rod in the same direction. The rod 202 may comprise at least one opening 204 along a length of the rod 202 for coupling the fabric to the rod 202. In this example, the at least one opening 204 is a slit extending along a portion of the length of the rod 202. The portion of fabric may extend through the slit 204. If the item of clothing is manufactured with the apparatus, the fibres of the fabric could be weaved through the slit 204 such that the woven fabric extends through the slit 204, or two pieces of fabric could be sewn together through the slit 204.

Alternatively, the at least one opening may comprise at least one hole through the rod 202 in a direction perpendicular to the length of the rod. The at least one hole may be a diametrical hole (i.e. through the diameter of the rod) or may pass through the rod 202 in a direction parallel to the diameter. The at least one hole may be used to stitch the fabric to the rod 202. Thus, it may be beneficial to have multiple holes along the rod 202 to couple the fabric, by stitching. Furthermore, it is desirable that an even force is applied to the fabric when the rod 202 is rotated, so that the fabric is wrapped around the rod 202 in an even or uniform manner. A single hole near the centre of the length of the rod 202 may achieve this, but multiple holes may better enable this. Thus, the at least one hole may comprise a first hole located near a first end of the rod 202 and a second hole located near a second end of the rod 202, such that force is applied more evenly to the portion of fabric that is being wrapped around the rod 202.

As the apparatus 200 may be permanently or removably attached to an item of clothing, it may be advantageous to form the apparatus 200 from washable or water-resilient materials. Additionally, the apparatus 200 may be formed from a material that is rigid enough to maintain its shape and form when clothing incorporating the apparatus is worn. Thus, the rod 202 and other components of the apparatus 200 may be formed from fibreglass, metal, plastic, or even wood. It will be understood that this is a non-exhaustive and non-limiting example list of materials.

The length of the rod 202 may depend on where the apparatus 200 is placed in an item of clothing. For example, the length of the rod 202 (and therefore the apparatus 200) which is placed along the spine line may be longer than the length of the rod 202 which is placed in the collar area.

The dimensions of the opening 204 may depend on a type of material which is inserted through the opening 204. For example, some types of fabric may be thicker than others. Therefore, a wider opening 204 may be needed for a thicker type of fabric. The length of the opening 204 depends on the overall length of the rod 202.

Preferably, the fabric moves through the opening 204 in an even manner. Even distribution of the piece of fabric in the opening 204 may improve the efficiency of the apparatus 200. Thus, it may be desirable to distribute the fabric evenly when inserting it through the opening 204.

The piece of fabric which is inserted through the opening 204 has to comprise at least one spot that is in direct contact with the opening 204. In other words, the at least one spot in the piece of fabric which is inserted through the opening 204 has to be in contact with the rod 202. This allows the piece of fabric to be wrapped around the rod 202 when the rod 202 is rotated. If there is more than one spot of the piece of fabric in direct contact with the opening 204, more efficient wrapping of the piece of fabric around the rod 202 may be achieved. Consequently, the size of the piece of fabric that is inserted through the opening 204 can be adjusted.

A first end of the rod may be rotated around its axis. For instance, the first end may be rotated manually, or a motor may be permanently or removably attached to the first end.

The apparatus 202 may further comprise a fastening element (not shown) to attach the fabric to the rod 202. The fastening element may be an adhesive. This may be useful if the rod 202 does not have an opening 204 to couple the fabric to the rod 202. However, the adhesive may also be used in the cases when the rod 202 does have at least one opening. The adhesive may be any suitable adhesive for bonding the fabric to the rod 202. Preferably, the adhesive may be water-resilient. The fastening element may comprise at least one stitch through the at least one opening (e.g. slit or hole(s)) to attach the fabric to the rod 202.

The apparatus 200 may further comprise a wheel (not shown) for rotating the rod 202, wherein the wheel is coupled to a first end of the rod 202. Thus, when the wheel is rotated, the rod 202 rotates. The wheel may be mechanically operated by a user. Alternatively, the apparatus may further comprise a motor coupled, or a removable motor to be coupled, to the wheel and arranged to, when activated, automatically turn the wheel. Thus, in some cases, a user may be able to switch a motor on and off to rotate the rod.

The wheel may further comprise a plurality of teeth. In this case, the locking mechanism may comprise at least one detent, notch or groove engageable with one of the plurality of teeth. Thus, the wheel may be locked in position when a tooth engages with a detent, and once the wheel is locked, the rod is also locked in position.

The locking mechanism may engage with a first end of the rod and may comprise: a ratchet comprising at least one angled tooth to enable rotation of the rotatable rod in one direction only. The wheel may comprise a plurality of teeth which engage with the at least one angled tooth of the ratchet. In this way, the wheel may only be able to rotate in one direction when engaged with the ratchet. The ratchet of the locking mechanism may therefore prevent the rod from rotating in the opposite direction. However, the ratchet may not prevent the rod from continuing to rotate in a direction that causes fabric to wrap around the rod. When the ratchet of the locking mechanism is in use, the ratchet of the locking mechanism may stop the fabric from loosening, unravelling or unwinding during the adjustment process (i.e. while the rod is being rotated).

Figure 3A shows a second example of an apparatus 300 for adjusting the size of an item of clothing. The apparatus 300 comprises a rotatable rod 302 arranged to, when rotated, pull a portion of fabric and wrap the portion of fabric around the rod 302; and a locking mechanism 306 for holding the rod 302 in one of a plurality of positions. The locking mechanism 306 may comprise a hollow tube wherein the first end of the rod 302 is provided inside the hollow tube parallel to an axial direction of the hollow tube. The locking mechanism is described in more detail below with respect to Figures 4A to 6C. A second end 314 of the rod may be exposed, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, or may be enclosed as shown in Figure 3C.

The apparatus 300 may comprise a turn-wheel 308 engaged with the hollow tube 306 and the first end of the rod 302. The turn-wheel 308 may comprise: a wheel portion provided outside one end of the hollow tube 306 and forming a cap on the hollow tube 306; and a body portion (not visible in Figure 3A) provided inside the hollow tube 306, wherein the body portion is moveable along the axial direction within the hollow tube 306. That is, the body portion is able to slide within the hollow tube 306 along the axial direction. Thus, the body portion may be moved between a first position in the hollow tube 306 in which the body portion is able to rotate, and a second position in the hollow tube 306 in which the body portion is unable to rotate.

The wheel portion of the turn-wheel 308 may comprise a plurality of teeth, and the hollow tube 306 may comprise at least one detent, notch or groove engageable with one of the plurality of teeth. In Figure 3A, the turn-wheel 308 has one tooth 310, and the hollow tube 306 comprises a notch/detent formed by two protrusions 312. Thus, the wheel portion may be locked in position when a tooth 310 engages with a detent 312, and once the wheel portion is locked, the rod 302 is also locked in position.

Figure 3B shows a variant 300' of the second example of Figure 3A. Here, the rotatable rod 302 comprises at least one opening 304 along a length of the rod 302 for coupling the fabric to the rod 302. In this example, the at least one opening 304 is a slit extending along a portion of the length of the rod 302. The portion of fabric may extend through the slit 304. It will be understood that the at least one opening 304 may be a hole or set of holes instead of a slit, as described above. In apparatus 300', the turn-wheel 308 comprises multiple teeth 310, and the hollow tube 306 comprises a plurality of detents 312.

Figure 3C shows the second example with a bearing component. Here, the second end 314 of apparatus 300 is shown as being encased or provided within another component. Component 316 may be a bearing block which provides strength or rigidity to apparatus 300 and/or may reduce the possibility of twisting rod 302 when the rod is locked in position (where the twisting may cause the rod 302 to crack, deform or break).

Figure 4A and 4B show, respectively, a side view and a cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism of the second example apparatus 300 shown in Figure 3A. As mentioned above, the locking mechanism comprises a hollow tube 306, wherein the first end of the rod 302 is provided inside the hollow tube 306 parallel to an axial direction of the hollow tube 306. The locking mechanism further comprises a ratchet comprising at least one angled tooth to enable rotation of the rotatable rod 302 in one direction only. This locking mechanism may prevent the rod 302 from rotating in either direction. The ratchet may be provided on a first portion 318 of an inner surface of the hollow tube 306. The locking mechanism may further comprise at least one groove formed on a second portion 320 of an inner surface of the hollow tube 306, where the second portion is adjacent to the first portion in an axial direction.

A bearing 322 may be provided between a portion of the hollow tube 306 and the rod 302. The bearing 322 may be any suitable bearing, such as a plane bearing or a smooth surface.

The turn-wheel 308 comprises: a wheel portion 308a provided outside one end of the hollow tube 306 and forming a cap on the hollow tube 306; and a body portion 308b provided inside the hollow tube 306, wherein the body portion 308b is moveable along the axial direction within the hollow tube 306. That is, the body portion 308b is able to slide within the hollow tube 306 along the axial direction. Thus, the body portion 308b may be moved between a first position in the hollow tube 306 in which the body portion 308b is able to rotate, and a second position in the hollow tube 306 in which the body portion 308b is unable to rotate.

The wheel portion of the turn-wheel 308 may comprise a plurality of teeth, and the hollow tube 306 may comprise at least one detent, notch or groove engageable with one of the plurality of teeth. In Figure 4A, the turn-wheel 308 has one tooth 310, and the hollow tube 306 comprises a notch/detent formed by two protrusions 312. Thus, the wheel portion may be locked in position when a tooth 310 engages with a detent formed by the two protrusions 312, and once the wheel portion is locked, the rod 302 is also locked in position.

Figure 5 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of Figure 3A. The locking mechanism comprises a ratchet comprising at least one angled tooth 326 to enable rotation of the rotatable rod 302 in one direction only. This locking mechanism may prevent the rod 302 from rotating in either direction. The ratchet may be provided on a first portion 318 of an inner surface of the hollow tube 306. The locking mechanism may further comprise at least one groove 328 formed on a second portion 320 of an inner surface of the hollow tube 306, where the second portion is adjacent to the first portion in an axial direction. The locking mechanism may comprise a third portion 324 which acts as an end-stop to prevent the wheel portion of the turn-wheel from sliding within the hollow tube 306 and thereby avoiding the ratchet (e.g. angled tooth). It will be understood that the third portion 324 could be replaced by extending a length of the angled tooth 326 along the inner surface of the hollow tube 306.

Figure 6A shows a perspective view of a turn-wheel 308 of the second example apparatus 300 shown in Figure 3A. The body portion 308b may comprise: at least one protrusion 330 on an external surface of the body portion 308b. In Figure 6A, the turn-wheel 308 is shown as having two protrusions 330 but it will be understood that any number could be used. When the body portion 308b is in a first position within the hollow tube 306, the at least one protrusion 330 may engage with the at least one angled tooth 326 of the ratchet, and the body portion 308b may be able to rotate relative to the hollow tube 306 (in the direction permitted by the angle of the at least one angled tooth 326). When the body portion 308b is in a second position, the at least one protrusion 330 may engage with the at least one groove 328 of the locking mechanism, and the body portion 308b may be locked in position relative to the hollow tube 306. Thus, by sliding the body portion 308b within the hollow tube 306, the protrusion(s) 330 may be in the first portion 318 of the locking mechanism (i.e. the ratchet portion) or may be in the second portion 320 of the locking mechanism (i.e. the locking portion). In other words, the body portion 308b needs to be pulled outwards of the hollow tube 306 if rotation is required, and pushed inwards into the hollow tube 306 if locking is required.

The number of grooves 328 of the locking mechanism may determine the number of positions in which the body portion 308b can be locked, and how fine the adjustment of the size of the clothing item may be made. For example, if the locking mechanism has a single groove 328 and the body portion 308b has a single protrusion 330, then an integer number of turns must be completed for the protrusion 330 and groove 328 to align for locking. If the locking mechanism has two equally-spaced grooves and the body portion has a single protrusion, then half-turns are needed for the protrusion to align with a groove, and if the locking mechanism has four equally-spaced grooves and the body portion has a single protrusion, then quarter-turns are needed for the protrusion to align with a groove. It will be understood that alternatively, there may be a single groove but multiple protrusions, or multiple grooves and multiple protrusions.

Figure 6B shows a perspective view of a rod 302 of the second example apparatus 300 shown in Figure 3A, and Figure 6C shows a cross-sectional view of the turn-wheel 308 and rod 302 when coupled together. The body portion 308b of the turn-wheel 308 may comprise a projection 332 inside the body portion, as shown in Figure 6A. The rod 302 may comprise a slot 334 at the first end of the rod 302. The projection 332 of the body portion 308b is provided in the slot 334 of the rod 302, thereby coupling the body portion 308b of the turn-wheel 308 to the rod 302. Thus, when the turn-wheel 308 is rotated, the rod 302 rotates. The length of the slot 334 and projection 332 are long enough that when the body portion 308b is moved between the first and second positions in the hollow tube 306, the body portion 308b remains coupled to the rod 302.

In an embodiment, the locking mechanism may also be or comprise a clicking mechanism which may work on the same or similar principles as the spring-loaded mechanism in retractable pens. This clicking mechanism may function to release/unlock the locking mechanism so that rod may be rotated, and to lock the locking mechanism when the rotation action has been completed. The clicking mechanism may enable the tooth/teeth of the wheel portion 308a to be released from engagement with the detent(s) of the hollow tube 306. The clicking mechanism may enable the body portion 308b to stay in a locked position when the apparatus is oriented in any direction. The clicking mechanism may be coupled, for example, to the body portion 308b and/or turn-wheel 308 and/or to a tooth 310. Therefore, when a user presses a button of the clicking mechanism, the clicking mechanism may move the body portion 308b to a position when the body portion 308b may rotate. After the body portion 308 is rotated to a desirable position, the user may click the button again and the body portion 308b is returned to a position in which the body portion 308b cannot be rotated. The clicking mechanism may comprise a "press and hold" button or a "press and release" button to activate the locking and unlocking.

In another embodiment, the ratchet may comprise retractable teeth. The locking mechanism may comprise a pressable button or similar mechanism to retract or release the teeth of the ratchet. Thus, when the teeth are retracted, the body portion 308b (and therefore the rod) may be able to move in any direction. When the teeth are released, the body portion 308b may only be able to rotate in one direction.

Figure 7A shows a perspective view of the apparatus 300 of Figure 3B comprising a casing, and Figure 7B shows a perspective view of fabric 406 extending through the casing. The apparatus 300 may comprise a casing 400 provided around at least a portion of the length of the rod. The casing 400 comprises at least one opening 402 to enable fabric 406 to extend through the at least one opening and reach the rod. The opening 402 is a slit or slot. In some cases there may be two openings 402. The casing 400 may be provided to strengthen the apparatus 300 or to make the apparatus more rigid and prevent the rod from being twisted rather than rotated or to conceal and/or hold the gathered fabric. The casing 400 may also help to guide the fabric into the apparatus in an even, controlled manner. The casing 400 may protect the fabric when it is gathered around the rod.

Figure 8A and 8B show an apparatus 500 operated by a motor 502. As mentioned earlier, the wheel or turn-wheel of the apparatus may be rotated using a motor. The motor may be battery-operated. In Figure 8A, the motor has not yet been turned on. The fabric 406 passes through casing 400 and is coupled to the rod (not visible). An end of the apparatus 500 comprising a wheel that is coupled to the rod is coupled to a motor 502. Alternatively, the rod may be coupled directly to motor 502. Figure 8B shows how the material has been gathered inside apparatus 500 after the motor 502 was turned on. In this case, the motor itself may form the locking mechanism, as when the motor is turned off, the rod may be unable to rotate. The motor may be a releasable/removable motor, which a user may be able to connect to the apparatus when rotation is required, or may be a permanently attached motor (which may therefore, need to be water-resistant/water-proof).

Figure 9 shows part of a further example of an apparatus 600 for adjusting the size of an item of clothing. As above, the apparatus 600 comprises a rod 602 that is arranged to, when rotated, pull a portion of fabric 406 and wrap the portion of fabric 406 around the rod 602. The apparatus 600 may comprise a wheel or turn-wheel to help rotate the rod 602. The apparatus 600 may comprise a guide mechanism 606 similar to the casing described above. The guide mechanism 606 may function to guide fabric in a controlled manner towards and around rod 602. The guide mechanism 606 in this example is formed of two substantially parallel rods, where fabric 406 passes through a gap or slot formed between the rods and is thereby guided towards rod 602. The apparatus 600 may comprise a locking mechanism to hold the rod 602 in a position.

Figures 10A to IOC show a further example of an apparatus 10 according to the disclosure. Figures 10A and IOC are perspective views of the apparatus 10. Figure 10B is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 has a rotatable rod 12. The rod 12 is arranged to pull a portion of fabric of an item of clothing and wrap the fabric around the rod 12 when rotated. The rod 12 in this example is a coiled spring. The use of a coiled spring may allow the rod 12 to flex during use - for example to curve in accordance with a specific use arrangement. Furthermore, the use of the spring allows the rod 12 to rotate about its axis, even when in a bent configuration.

The rod 12 is coupled to the rest of the apparatus at a first end 14 and second end 16. Separate fastening elements (not shown) are provided at the two ends and a midpoint of the rod 12 to attach fabric to the rod 12 during use. The fastening elements are mechanical clips or ties.

The rod 12 is located in a casing 18 (visible in Figure IOC and shown partially in Figures 10A and 10B). The casing 18 defines an opening, through which fabric extends during use. In the present example, the casing is "C"-shaped in cross-section, with the opening being defined by the open section of the cross- section. The rod 12 is configured to rotate within the casing 18. As the rod 12 rotates, fabric is drawn into the apparatus 10, through the opening, and wraps around the rod 12 in order to adjust the size of the apparel.

In the present example, the casing 18 is formed of a plurality of separate sections. Each section is a "C"-shaped plate 20 (see Figure 13). For illustration purposes, Figures 10A and 10B show only three such plates 20. Figure IOC shows all of the plates 20. The plates 20 are interconnected by means of a number of flexible fasteners 22, e.g. cords or elastic connectors that extend through openings in each plate 20. In the present example, three flexible fasteners 22 extend through corresponding holes 54 in each plate 20 (see Figure 13). In other examples more or fewer flexible fasteners 22 may be used. Equally, in other examples of the invention the openings provided in the plates 20 may not be complete, circular holes, but instead partially enclosed recesses, in which the fastener 22 can be located.

The fasteners 22 extend parallel to the rod 12, along the length of the rod 12. The fasteners 22 are connected at the first end 14 and second end 16 of the apparatus. The fasteners 22 are connected at the first end 14 to a second ratchet component 30 (see Figures 11, 12A, 12B and 15 and the description below). The fasteners 22 are connected at the second end 16 to an end piece 52 (see Figure 14). The second ratchet component 30 and end piece 52 anchor the ends of the fasteners 22.

The use of a casing 18 formed of a series of sections (e.g. plates 20) and flexible fasteners 22 allows the casing 18 to bend and to take on a curved, or non linear, arrangement (as shown in Figure IOC). The casing 12 can also maintain the non-linear arrangement by itself (i.e. without having to be held in the arrangement). As such, the rod 12 and casing 18 can both assume non-linear shapes. Furthermore, the rod 12 is rotatable while in a non-linear configuration. As such, the apparatus 10 can operate to adjust a size of an item of clothing when in both a linear and a non-linear arrangement.

Turning now to Figures 11, 12A and 12B, the locking mechanism 24 will be described. Figure 11 is an exploded view of a locking mechanism 24. Figure 12A is a first cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism 24, and Figure 12B is a second cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism 24, taken along a plane perpendicular to the cross-section of Figure 12A.

In the present example the locking mechanism 24 is located at the first end 14 of the apparatus 10. The locking mechanism 24 comprises a first ratchet component 26 (see Figures 11, 12A-B and 18A-B) having a first ratchet surface 28 and a second ratchet component 30 (see Figures 11, 12A-B and 15) having a second ratchet surface 32. The ratchet components 26, 30 are aligned such that the two ratchet surfaces 28, 32 face each other. The ratchet components 26, 30 are arranged such that the two ratchet surfaces 28, 32 can engage.

In the present example, the first and second ratchet surfaces 28, 32 comprise angled teeth. The first and second ratchet surfaces 28, 32 are configured to move between an engaged configuration, in which the respective teeth mesh, and a disengaged configuration, in which the respective teeth are separated. In the engaged configuration, the first and second ratchet surfaces 28, 32 permit rotation of the first ratchet component 26 (with respect to the second ratchet component 30) in a first direction (anti-clockwise when viewed along arrow A), but resist (and thus prevent) rotation of the first ratchet component 26 in a second direction (clockwise when viewed along arrow A). In the disengaged configuration, the first and second ratchet surfaces 28, 32 are separated and, as such, the first ratchet component 26 is free to rotate in either direction with respect to the second ratchet component 30.

Both of the ratchet components 26, 30 are generally tubular, with an internal bore therethrough. The locking mechanism 24 further comprises a grip 34 (see Figures 11, 12A, 12B and 16). The grip 34 is arranged at the first end 14 of the apparatus 10 and is configured to be held and rotated by a user to rotate the rod 12. The grip 34 is generally cylindrical and is arranged concentrically around the first ratchet component 26. The grip 34 comprises an interface 38 on its end surface for connection to a motor (not shown), such as an electric motor. The motor may be used to actuate the apparatus - i.e. to rotate the rod to wrap and unwrap fabric from around the rod 12 to adjust the side of the apparel.

The locking mechanism 24 comprises a bearing member 36 (see Figures 11, 12A-B and 17A-B). The bearing member 36 is located concentrically within the first and second ratchet components 26, 30. The bearing member 36 extends between the two ratchet components 26, 30. The bearing member 36 comprises a first portion 40 configured to mate with the first ratchet component 26. The first portion 40 comprises a polygonal - and in this case, square, cross-section. The first portion 40 is configured to mate with a corresponding polygonal opening 64 in the first ratchet component 26. The first ratchet component 26 is able to move axially on the first portion 40 of the bearing member 36, but is unable to rotate thereon. As such, rotation of the first ratchet component 26 rotates the bearing member 36.

The bearing member 36 comprises a second portion 42 configured to engage the rod 12. The second portion 42 of the bearing member 36 is clamped to the rod 12 and is therefore unable to move axially or rotationally with respect to the rod 12. As such, rotation of the bearing member 36 rotates the rod 12

The second portion 42 of the bearing member 36 is tubular. The second portion 42 comprises a circumferential groove 44 on its outer circumferential surface. The groove 44 is located inside the second ratchet component 30. The second ratchet component 30 comprises a bore aligned with the groove 44 such that, in use, a screw or pin (not shown) can be arranged in the bore, extending into the groove 44. The screw or pin engages both the second ratchet component 30 and the groove 44 and is arranged to prevent axial motion of the bearing member 36 with respect to the second ratchet component 30. As the groove 44 extends around the circumference of the bearing member 36, the bearing member 36 is able to rotate about a longitudinal axis within the second ratchet component 30.

The grip 34 houses and surrounds the first ratchet component 26. The first ratchet component 26 is free to rotate within the grip 34. The grip 34 comprises a slot 46. In the present example the slot 46 extends through the wall of the grip 34. The first ratchet component 26 comprises a bore 48 with an internal thread into, or through, its outer circumferential surface. The bore 48 is aligned with the slot 46. A pin - in the present example provided by a screw (not shown) in bore 48 - mates with the slot 46. The pin extends from the first ratchet component 26, into the slot 46. The pin is configured to traverse the slot 46 as the first ratchet component 26 moves with respect to the grip 34.

The second ratchet component 30 is axially fixed with respect to the bearing member 42 and the first ratchet component 26 is able to move axially on the first portion 40 of the bearing member 36. As such, the first ratchet component 26, and corresponding first ratchet surface 28, are free to move towards and away from the second ratchet component 30 and corresponding second ratchet surface 32. Movement of the first ratchet component 26 away from the second ratchet component 30 moves the ratchet from an engaged to a disengaged configuration. Movement of the first ratchet component 26 towards the second ratchet component moves the ratchet from a disengaged to an engaged configuration.

The ratchet is biased into an engaged configuration. The locking mechanism 24 comprises a biasing member - in this example a spring - configured to bias the first ratchet surface 28 and second ratchet surface 32 into engagement. In the example of Figure 11, a spring (not shown) is located inside the hollow grip 34. The spring is configured to urge the first ratchet component 26 towards the second ratchet component 30, engaging the first and second ratchet surfaces 28, 32.

The interaction of the pin and slot 46 is configured to move the first ratchet component 26 axially with respect to the second ratchet component 30. The slot 46 comprises an axially-aligned portion. The axially-aligned portion allows the first ratchet component 26 to move axially as the first ratchet component 26 rotates in a first direction in the engaged configuration. That is, as the first ratchet component 26 rotates in the first direction, the first ratchet component 26 moves up and down axially as the angled teeth of the two ratchet surfaces 28, 32 ride over one another. Movement of the first ratchet component 26 away from the second ratchet component 30 is done against the biasing force of the spring.

The slot 46 also comprises an angled portion. The angled portion is arranged at an oblique angle to the axis of the grip (which in the present example is also the axis of the ratchet components, bearing member 36 and rod 12). The angled portion is configured such that relative rotation of the grip 34 (in the second direction) with respect to the first ratchet component 26 causes the pin to travel along the angled portion which, in turn, moves the first ratchet component 26 axially away from the second ratchet component 30 (against the biasing action of the spring). This imposed axial movement moves the ratchet from the engaged to the disengaged configuration. Once the first ratchet surface 28 is disengaged from the second ratchet surface 32, continued rotation of the grip 34 causes the first ratchet component 26, bearing member 36 and rod 12 to rotate in the second direction.

When the torque is removed from the grip 34, the spring urges the first ratchet component 26 towards the second ratchet component 30, causing the grip 34 to rotate relative to the first ratchet component 26 as the pin traverses back along the slot 46 and the first ratchet surface 28 engages the second ratchet surface 32.

As such, during use, fabric of an item of clothing is attached to the rod 12 by means of fasteners. Once connected, the grip 34 is rotated in a first direction, to rotate the rod in a first direction, to wind fabric of an item of clothing around the rod 12 to adjust the fit thereof. Once in the correct arrangement, the locking mechanism holds the rod in this position by the ratchet engaging and preventing rotation of the rod 12 in the second direction. The spring in the grip 34 acts to maintain the ratchet in an engaged configuration, by urging the ratchet surfaces 28, 32 into engagement. This ensures the rod 12 is held in position by the locking mechanism and the ratchet does not inadvertently disengage, for example due to inversion of the apparatus 10 or rapid movement of the wearer. To unwind fabric from the rod 12, the grip 34 is rotated in the second direction. Initial rotation of the grip 34 moves the grip 34 with respect to the first ratchet component 26 (which is held in position through interaction with the second ratchet component 30 and the spring) such that the pin moves up the angled portion of the slot 46. As the pin moves up the angled portion of the slot 46, the first ratchet surface 28 is disengaged from the second ratchet surface 32 (against the action of the spring). Once the ratchet is disengaged, continued rotation of the grip 34 in the second direction rotates the first ratchet component 26, the bearing member 36 and the rod 12.

The grip 34 and first ratchet component 26 are axially-anchored to the bearing member 36 and second ratchet component 30 by means of a screw that extends axially through a bore 50 in the grip 34 (see Figure 16) and first ratchet component 26. The screw extends through the grip 34 and first ratchet component 26, and engages with an internal thread 60 in the first portion 40 of the bearing member 36.

The second ratchet component 30 comprises a plurality of holes 58 (in this case, three) for securing ends of the fastening elements 22. At the second end 16 of the apparatus 10 an end piece 52 is provided (see Figures 10A-C and 14). The end piece 52 houses the end of the rod 12, but permits rotation thereof. The end piece 52 also comprises a plurality of holes 56 for securing second ends of the fastening elements 22. The fastening elements 22 therefore extend parallel to the rod 12 between the second ratchet component 30 and the end piece 52.

Figures 13 through 18B provide detailed views of the plate 20, end piece 52, second ratchet component 30, grip 34, bearing member 36 and first ratchet component 26.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that while the foregoing has described what is considered to be the best mode and where appropriate other modes of performing present techniques, the present techniques should not be limited to the specific configurations and methods disclosed in this description of the preferred embodiment. Those skilled in the art will recognise that present techniques have a broad range of applications, and that the embodiments may take a wide range of modifications without departing from any inventive concept as defined in the appended claims.