Man-PACK Purse/Backpack Hybrid

Abstract

The bag includes a carrier implement such as a strap for a backpack worn left to right, or right to left. Carrier implement is divided into two parts and includes a tensioning system for the purpose of carrier implement length customization. Bag is similar in utilitarian scope and size to that of a traditional female purse. Bag is similar in utilitarian scope and style to that of a traditional backpack. The bag will have multiple exterior pockets and interior pockets including a pocket for integrated first aid kit located on the underside of the bag. The bag is designed in a manner that causes the individual to carry said bag over the small of the back thereby distributing weight vertically and evenly on the spine of the individual wearer. The bag contains a unique collapsible beverage compartment able to be folded away when not in use.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Patents cited:

• U.S. Pat. No. D 441,186 S Daboudet (FR)
• U.S. Pat. No. 6,138,881 Paul, et al.
• U.S. Pat. No. D315,825 Hutton, et al.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING. A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX

Not Applicable.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The following invention relates to bags, such as backpacks, purses, and shoulder bags carried over the shoulder of an individual. More particularly, this invention relates to backpacks and other bags which are similar in utilitarian scope and size to the traditional female purse or oversize female purse, and similar in utilitarian scope and style to a traditional full size backpack, traditional full-size one-strap backpack, one-strap promotional bag, one strap shoulder bag, and other bags of similar nature.

DESCRIPTION

The following invention relates to bags, such as backpacks, purses, and shoulder bags carried over the shoulders of an individual. Especially those bags utilizing one strap worn across the shoulder diagonally from left to right, or right to left, relative to the vertical posture of the individual.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Males are often required to carry their belongings in various settings, such as in social settings, work settings, or recreational settings. However, prior traditional means of males carrying belongings consist of pants pockets, full size backpacks, attaché cases, messenger bags, purses, briefcases, luggage, satchels, and other bags.

Traditionally it has been considered un-masculine to carry “accessory bags”, especially those of similar size to a traditional female purse, and oversized traditional female purse.

It has also been cumbersome and uncomfortable for males to carry personal belongings in pants pockets.

When males do utilize a bag for the carrying of personal effects, and the bag choice has consisted of the traditional two strap full-size backpack, or one strap full-size backpack, the choice often leaves an excess of unutilized storage area, due to the large size of the full size traditional backpack relative to the more meager storage needs of the average male. Carrying these oversized bags relative to the oft-times lesser needs of the majority of males creates a cumbersome appearance and lessened ergonomic utility in a partially filled backpack.

When males choose the attaché case, purse, messenger bag, drawstring bags, and other bags primarily designed for and used by men, the utilizing male endures the social ridicule of their male peers due to said bag's similarities to those bags, purses, drawstring bags, and other bags designed for females.

When males choose the attaché case, purse, messenger bag, drawstring bags, and other bags primarily designed for and used by males, the utilizing individual carries the bag as a shoulder bag, vertically weighted to the left or right, off-center of the individual's spine. This off-center distribution of weight leads to a deterioration of ergonomic utility, and spinal discomfort. Likewise, males who choose said cases for the carrying of personal effects, often wear the single strap of shoulder bags across the chest from left to right, or right to left carrying the weight on either the left or right, off-center of the individual's spine, thereby causing a deterioration of ergonomic utility and spinal discomfort.

When males choose the attaché case, purse, messenger bag, drawstring bags, and other bags primarily designed for and used by females, the males suffer ridicule and damage to self-esteem at the hands of their male peers due to the fact that the design of said bags pose a resemblance of bags or purses designed for, and utilized primarily by females.

The damage to self-esteem experienced by these men, and aversion to social ridicule by their male peers, incites these men to avoid carrying a bag of similar size and utilitarian scope as that of a traditional female purse. Bags that are a similar size, and have similar scope of application to a traditional female purse include attaché cases, messenger bags, purses, briefcases, luggage, satchels, drawstring bags and other bags.

The effect of males experiencing an aversion to carrying bags of similar size and scope to that of a traditional female purse consist of males being under-prepared for a multitude of situations which require excess storage capacity than that which will accommodate pants pockets or open carry in the hands.

It is desirable for male individuals to have a product of similar utilitarian scope and size to that of a female purse, and the utilitarian scope and style of a traditional backpack, so as to maintain a design perceived as masculine by the majority of individuals and meet the utilitarian needs of an average male. The effect of this invention is to create a purse/backpack hybrid similar in scope and size to a traditional female purse, or oversized female purse, yet similar in utilitarian scope and style to that of a traditional full size backpack of which primarily male individuals will utilize for the purpose of self-carry storage necessity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

With this invention a bag is provided that conforms to the utilitarian scope and style of a traditional female purse, or oversized female purse, yet maintains the utilitarian scope and style of full size backpacks, one strap full size backpacks, one strap promotional bags and other bags of similar nature. In one form of this invention, the bag is supplied with all the implements to fill the designed pockets relative to their designated uses such as a new wallet in a pocket appropriately sized for such, or a pocket knife in a compartment appropriately sized for such. In this form of the invention the bags contents directly correlate with the pockets designed intent. Bags may be customized for different professions, occupations, environments, demographics, and cultural affluences. A similarly styled bag utilizing one strap is more specifically described in U.S. Pat. No. D 441,186 S which is herein incorporated by reference.

While the invention is illustrated primarily for men, the invention could be modified and adapted for use by women, children and other demographics in varying sizes, styles, contents, colors, and graphics.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, a primary object of the present invention is to create a bag that is similar in utilitarian scope and size of a traditional female purse or oversize female purse, while embodying the traditional utilitarian scope and style of a traditional full-size backpacks, traditional full-size one-strap backpacks, one strap promotional bags, and other bags of similar nature.

Another object of the present invention is to create a method for shoulder strap length customization through the design of dividing the shoulder strap into multiple pieces and adjusting said strap's length via nylon or other similar material woven through a plastic, metal, or alloy tensioner and further securing said shoulder strap lengths with a nylon strap and hook and loop closure system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an ergonomically designed carrying bag that utilizes one strap affixed via stitching in opposite diagonal quadrants so the storage area and thereby the associated weight therein may be carried vertically parallel relative to an individual's spine.

Another object of present invention is to provide a bag including an integrated first aid kit and first aid pocket or pouch located on the underside, or lower one-third, of the bag accessed via a zipper and marked with a printed or embroidered red cross on exterior of said pouch or pocket.

Another object of this invention is to include a unique collapsible beverage carrying case made of fabric and elastic mesh or other similar materials and affixed by stitching to the shoulder strap or main compartment of the bag.

Other further objects of the present invention will become apparent from a careful reading of the included drawing figures, the claims and detailed description of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bag according to this invention, shown in the form of a purse/backpack hybrid in this embodiment, with the main compartment flap, electronic accessory pocket, strap length customization system, zipper handle accompaniment, and two exterior pockets shown.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a bag according to this invention, similar to that which is shown in FIG. 1, but from an opposite view showing the shoulder strap affixed via stitching in opposite quadrants of the rear quarter panel, a collapsible beverage pocket, cross strap length customization system, and showing the rear pocket accessed via a zipper in the closed position in this representation.

FIG. 3 is a perspective from the inside front interior of said bag and showing the dual walled construction, as well as the location of said pockets numbering three of which are referenced in the claims section as well as the preferred embodiment section.

FIG. 4 is a perspective from the inside interior opposite the rear panel showing the dual walled construction, and one large zippered pocket shown in the closed position of which is referenced in the claims section as well as the detailed description section.

FIG. 5 is a perspective of the underside of the bag, showing the collapsible beverage holder, rear zippered pocket, cross strap length customization system, and the first-aid pocket located on the underside of the bag, shown in the closed position, and which contains a pre-packaged first aid kit referenced in the claims section and the detailed description section.

FIG. 6 contains a representation of the nylon or other similar material pull string and closing mechanism attached to all exterior zippered enclosure systems on the bag.

FIG. 7 is a detailed perspective of the plastic, metal, or alloy closing mechanism which secures the string shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a detailed perspective showing the collapsible beverage holding pocket in the closed position.

FIG. 9 is a detailed perspective of one flap opened of the beverage holding pocket in the process of opening the pocket and showing both parts of the hook and closure (or similar) closure apparatus.

FIG. 10 is a detailed perspective of both flaps of the collapsible beverage holding pocket in the process of opening the pocket, and showing one component of the hook and closure system.

FIG. 11 is a detailed perspective of the fully open position of the collapsible beverage holding pocket. Showing both components of the hook and loop closure system in the open position. Especially representing the hook portion of closure system positioned on the left so as to never come in contact with the mesh component.

FIG. 12 is a detailed perspective of the main compartment flap showing a cross section thereby exposing the rigid material insert of main compartment flap.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the various drawing figures, reference numeral 1 is directed to a bag (FIGS. 1-2) that is shown as a purse/backpack hybrid in this most preferred embodiment. It is understood that bags 1 of other configurations are also contemplated within the scope of this invention, including bags of other styles and fashions that conform to the general utilitarian scope and size of the traditional female purse and oversized female purse and the general utilitarian scope and style of traditional full size backpacks, one strap full size backpacks, one strap promotional bags and other bags of similar nature.

In essence, and with particular reference to FIG. 1, details of the bag 1 are described, according to this preferred embodiment. The bag 1 includes an exterior and an interior with straps 2 & 7 defining a preferred form of carrier implement. The straps 2 & 7 are positioned in opposite rear quadrants of the rear panel, shown top left and bottom right in this embodiment (FIG. 2). The straps may be positioned in opposite quadrants and affixed via stitching or other durable bond of similar nature (to include detachable closure systems such as U.S. Pat. No. 6,138,881, and U.S. Pat. No. D315,825) to the rear panel 17 and located in the necessary diagonally opposite rear quadrants suitable for left handed carry or right handed carry depending on the preference or needs of the individual.

More specifically, and with continuing reference to FIGS. 1 & 2, basic details are described of the bag 1 of this preferred embodiment, implementing the invention. The bag 1 includes two straps 2 & 7 separate in piece, but utilized as a single shoulder strap. Said straps 2 & 7 are joined by synchronous adjustable closure systems (numbering three) to include a hook and loop closure system 10 and strapping woven through a plastic, metal, or alloy tensioner system 8 & 9. Straps 2 & 7 are further joined by an auxiliary strap 19 of which purpose is to keep straps aligned along a parallel plane for cosmetic and aesthetic purpose as well as the utilitarian purpose of keeping the hook and loop closure system 10 aligned and secure. The shoulder straps 2 & 7 are shown in this preferred embodiment as separate pieces but it is acknowledged that the same shoulder strap design could be utilized as a non-adjustable single strap custom-sized for the individual.

In reference to FIG. 1 the bag 1 preferably includes multiple exterior compartments including a pocket or pouch 3 designed for an electronic device such as a cell phone or other similarly sized object. In this preferred embodiment of the invention the pouch compartment 3 is secured via stitching to strap 2 and is accessible by a stitched cover or flap secured by a magnetic closure apparatus consisting of one magnet concealed within the front panel of pouch compartment 3 and one magnet concealed within the pouch flap 4. It is acknowledged that the pouch compartment 3 may also be accessed by a stitched cover or flap secured by a hook and loop closure system or other closure system. It is also acknowledged that the pouch 3 may be secured to strap 2 via a detachable securement system such as a hook and loop closure system, or other forms of detachable securement systems in alternate embodiments of the invention.

In reference to FIG. 1 the bag 1 preferably includes an exterior compartment including a pocket or pouch 15. In this preferred embodiment of the invention the pouch compartment 15 is secured via stitching to front panel 14 and is accessible by a stitched cover or flap 28 secured by a magnetic closure apparatus consisting of one magnet concealed within the front panel of pouch compartment 15 and one magnet concealed within the flap 28. It is acknowledged that the pouch compartment 15 may also be accessed by a stitched cover or flap secured by a hook and loop closure system or other closure system such as a zippered closure system. It is also acknowledged that the pouch 15 may be secured via a detachable securement system such as a hook and loop closure system, or zippered securement system in alternate embodiments of the invention.

In reference to FIG. 1 & 2 the bag 1 preferably includes a main compartment primarily given form by exterior main panels 13, 14, & 17 and accesses via a zippered closure system 12 and covered for utilitarian and cosmetic purposes by an exterior main flap 5 secured via stitching to rear main panel 17. In this preferred embodiment of the invention the main compartment flap 5 consists of a stitched cover or flap secured by a magnetic closure apparatus 6 consisting of one magnet concealed within the front panel of main compartment panel 14 and one magnet concealed within the main compartment flap 5. It is acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention the main compartment comprised of panels 13, 14, 17 may also be accessed by a stitched cover or flap secured by a hook and loop closure system or other closure system. It is also acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention the main compartment primarily given form by panels 13, 14, & 17 may be accessed solely via a zippered closure system and void of the main compartment flap 5 as utilitarian use and individual preference dictates.

In reference to FIG. 1 the bag 1 preferably includes a front pocket compartment 16, divided by stitching into four open top compartments for the storage of writing instruments or other items of similar size. This compartment 16 is preferably merely a flap of additional material generally parallel with an outer wall of the front main panel 14. Compartment 16 is preferably divided by stitching into sub compartments of varying size to accommodate variations in diameter of writing implements or other objects of similar shape and size. It is acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention compartment 16 may be accessed by a zippered closure system, or stitched cover or flap secured by a hook and loop closure system or other closure system. It is acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention compartment 16 may be divided via stitching into equally sized sub-compartments and may number from one to as many as five depending on the utilitarian need of the individual.

In reference to FIG. 2 the bag 1 preferably includes a zippered pocket 18 embedded on the interior of rear panel 17 and most preferably consisting of a flap of additional material generally parallel with the outer panel 17 accesses via a zippered closure system 18. It is acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention pocket 18 may be accessed via a hook and loop closure system, magnetic closure system, or other closure system of similar use.

In reference to FIG. 2 the bag 1 preferably includes a collapsible water carrying case 29 made of fabric and elastic mesh or other similar materials and affixed by stitching to the outer panel 13 of the bag 1. It is acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention the collapsible beverage carrying case 29 may be attached to the shoulder strap 7 or front compartment panel 14 of the bag 1. It is further acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention the collapsible beverage carrying case 29 may be secured to bag 1 via a zippered securement system, hook and loop securement system, or other similar securement system for the purpose of detaching collapsible beverage carrying case 29 when not in use or at the preference of the individual.

In reference to FIG. 5 the bag 1 includes a first aid pocket compartment 31 located on the bottom of mid-panel 13, the location of which is marked with a red cross 30 on the exterior of mid-panel 13, and said first aid pocket compartment 31 containing a pre-packaged first aid kit, preferably consisting of antiseptic, gauze, tweezers, field compression dressings, antiseptic, acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen, medical adhesive tape, sterile gauze, elastic bandages, several sizes of adhesive bandages, insect bite swabs, triple-antibiotic ointment, bandage scissors, triangular bandages, exam gloves, barrier device for CPR, which may include all or some of these contents. Pocket 31 preferably consists of merely a flap of additional material generally parallel with the inner wall of the bottom mid-panel 13 and accessed via a zippered closure system. It is acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention the first aid compartment 31 may be accessed via a hook and loop closure system or other closure system.

In reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 5, 6, & 7 said bag 1 preferably utilizes an ornament 11 secured to all exterior zippered enclosure systems. Said handle 11 consists of a piece of nylon, leather, or other similar durable material woven through the zipper handle and running through a plastic, metal, or alloy tensioner at opposing diagonal angles and secured via compression stamp of a cross or some other artful design.

In reference to FIG. 3 said bag 1 preferably contains an outer panel 17 and inner panel 26 secured together via stitching for the purpose of adding strength and durability to the bag. It is preferable that interior main compartment panel 20 include multiple interior compartments numbering three on the interior front panel 20 attached via stitching. It is preferable that the compartment 25 is sized for the average size of a standard male wallet, compartment 22 sized for the standard business card or other object of similar size, and compartment 21 sized approximately equal to compartment 22 for the purpose of carrying coin currency or other objects of similar size. The compartments located on interior front panel 20 preferably utilize various closure systems including hook and loop 26, magnetic flap 24, and zippered 21, utilized relative to the pockets intended design and purpose.

In reference to FIG. 4 said bag 1 preferably contains an outer panel 17 and inner panel 20 secured together via stitching for the purpose of adding strength and durability to the bag. It is preferable that interior main compartment panel 26 include an interior pocket compartment 27 accessed by a zippered closure system and hidden between panels 17 and 26. It is acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of the invention the zippered closure system of compartment 27 may be accessed by hook and loop closure system, magnetic closure system, or other closure systems of similar utility.

In reference to FIGS. 8, 9, 10, & 11, the invention includes a unique collapsible beverage carrying case 29 consisting of a hook and loop closure system 33, one part static or rigid flat piece of fabric or other material 36 (such as canvas), one piece pliable or easily foldable material 38, one piece elastic mesh panel 32, and an elastic cord 34. Pliable material 38 enables the folding mechanism of the primary rigid fabric to occur while not over-stressing the tensile strength of the elastic mesh panel 32. The elastic mesh panel 32 is secured via stitching to parts 36 and 38. Part 36 is attached to part 38 via stitching 39. It is preferable that the collapsible beverage holder include an elastic cord 34 running parallel and stitched to the top of elastic mesh 32 and attached at opposite upper corners of rigid material 36 for the purpose of securing a beverage bottle or other object of similar size and shape. It is acknowledged that in alternate embodiments of this facet of the invention the materials may be changed and enhancements made as to design but the concept of the fundamental folding mechanism 37 remains the same.

In reference to FIG. 12 the invention includes an exterior main compartment flap 5 composed of an outer and inner section of material with a semi-rigid material component 35 enclosed and stitched in place between the inner and outer panels of main compartment flap 5 for the purpose of preventing material curl, especially in the corners of main compartment flap 5.

This disclosure is provided to reveal a preferred embodiment of the invention and a best mode for practicing the invention. Having thus described the invention in this way, it should be apparent that various different modifications can be made to the preferred embodiment without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. When structures are identified as a means to perform a function, the identification is intended to include all structures which can perform the function specified.

Claims

1. Invention consists of one-strap carrying bag similar in utilitarian scope and size to the traditional female purse and oversized female purse, yet similar in utilitarian scope and style to that of traditional full size backpacks, one strap full size backpacks, one strap promotional bags and other bags of similar nature.

2. Said claim number one includes pockets on the exterior of bag consisting of two pouches or pockets on front and one pouch or pocket on back.

3. Said claim number one pockets on the interior of the bag including 3 pockets on interior front and one pocket on interior back.

4. Said claim number one defines the size to between 9 inches to twelve inches wide, twelve inches to fifteen inches in height, and four inches to six inches in depth.

5. Said claim number one includes material construction for waterproofing, including materials used in swimwear, and fabric treatments which inhibit water penetration.

6. Said claim number one includes one strap worn across the chest, either left to right, or right to left and adjustable in length to accommodate varying girth of individual wearer.

7. Said claim number six includes a carrying case or pocket, stitched to shoulder cross strap so as to be worn on the chest of the individual, and designed for storage of cell phone or some other similarly sized object.

8. Said claim number six consists of two parts including the top strap and the bottom strap having both straps possess opposing components of a hook and loop closure system, adjustable tensioner, and horizontal nylon strap for the purpose of joining said cross strap parts as a single unit and keeping said parts aligned on parallel planes.

9. Said claim number six consists of shoulder cross strap shaped and stitched to opposite diagonal quadrants of bag in a design that causes the individual to carry said bag over the small of the back thereby distributing weight vertically and evenly on the spine of the individual wearer.

10. Invention includes a first aid pouch or pocket on the underside of bag, accessible by zippered enclosure.

11. Said claim number ten contains a pre-packaged first aid kit, consisting of antiseptic, gauze, tweezers, field compression dressings, antiseptic, acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen, medical adhesive tape, sterile gauze, elastic bandages, several sizes of adhesive bandages, insect bite swabs, triple-antibiotic ointment, bandage scissors, triangular bandages, exam gloves, barrier device for CPR, which may include all or some of these contents.

12. Said claim number ten includes a red cross embroidered or printed on the exterior surface of said pouch or pocket to signify the contents of the pouch as a first aid kit.

13. Invention includes unique collapsible beverage carrying case made of fabric and elastic mesh or other similar materials and affixed by stitching to the shoulder strap or main compartment of the bag.

14. Said claim number thirteen consists of four separate parts, including one part static or rigid material such as canvas, one part pliable material easily folded, one part dynamic or elastic material such as elastic mesh, and one part elastic cord secured at the top corners of static material via stitching and also joined by stitching to top of elastic mesh for the purpose of securing container of beverage or other object of similar size inside the carrying case.