Satchel and Method of Using the Same

Abstract

A satchel comprises a main compartment, a front pouch, a top lid connected to the main compartment by a top zipper, a bottom lid connected to the main compartment by a bottom zipper, a bag dispenser within the front pouch, a bag dispensing aperture disposed on the front of the pouch, and at least one carrying strap releasably connected to the main compartment. A method of using the satchel includes the steps of unzipping the top zipper, lifting the top lid, depositing an object such as a bag full of pet waste into the main compartment, zipping the top zipper closed, transporting the satchel, unzipping the bottom zipper, pulling back the bottom lid, and allowing the bag full of pet waste to drop into a receptacle, such as a trashcan.

Description

GOVERNMENT CONTRACT

Not applicable.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT RE. FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

COPYRIGHT & TRADEMARK NOTICES

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material which is subject to copyright protection. This patent document may show and/or describe matter which is or may become trade dress of the owner. The copyright and trade dress owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by any one of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrights and trade dress rights whatsoever.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosed subject matter relates generally to satchels and, more particularly, to a satchel having top and bottom zipper openings and a front-mounted pet waste bag disposer.

BACKGROUND

Many persons own or supervise dogs, cats, miniature pigs, horses or other animals that expel excrement waste that needs to be picked up. In New York City alone, some estimates hold that ninety-six (96) tons of dog poop land on the ground every day. Many persons find the act of removing excrement from the ground unpleasant. Naturally, many pet waste bags, pet waste bag dispensers, pet waste bag containers, and the like are known to pet owners. However, many of these would-be solutions require the user to repeatedly handle a pet waste bag filled with excrement. Not only do many persons find holding, transporting, and disposing of a pet waste bag filled with excrement to be unsightly and unpleasant, such an experience can expose the user to pathogens, cause the user nausea, or result in the pet waste bag being disposed of improperly.

What is needed therefore is an end-to-end solution wherein the user's only contact with the excrement is through a bag at the time the user picks up the excrement. Such a solution should provide for holding the pet waste bag, transporting the pet waste bag, and disposing of the pet waste bag without a user needing to touch the pet waste bag.

Proposals for pet waste bag dispensers and related satchels have been made. For example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0286003, incorporated by reference in its entirety herein, appears to disclose an over-the-shoulder satchel having a pet waste bag dispensing element and a top-loading opening, wherein the bags are dispensed from the interior of the device. While this disclosure does provide for a pet waste bag dispenser and a satchel configured to contain pet waste bags filled with excrement, it fails to provide for a bottom zipper-secured opening whereby a user may release a used pet waste bag without touching the pet waste bag.

Another example may be seen with respect to U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0135432, incorporated by reference in its entirety herein, which appears to disclose an around-the-waist pack that is configured to dispense pet waste bags and retain pet waste bags filled with excrement. However, this disclosure fails to provide for a front-mounted dedicated pet waste bag dispenser pouch that is fully and hygienically separated from the inner compartment. Nor does this disclosure provide for a bottom-opening zipper enclosure.

Yet another example may be seen with respect to U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0144072, incorporated by reference in its entirety herein, which appears to disclose a modular system whereby various elements can be joined to form a pack configured to dispense pet waste bags. Despite having varied functionality, this disclosure also fails to provide for a bottom-opening zipper flap or for a front-rolling bag dispenser.

As can be seen, none of these in existence comprise beneficial characteristics described in the following disclosure. Thus, there remains a need for a satchel that provides for a front-mounted rolling pet waste bag dispenser separated from the inner compartment, a bottom-opening zipper flap that fully opens the central compartment, or the other benefits of the present invention.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to an improved satchel that may provide for pet waste bag transportation and bottom-opening disposal, in addition to other properties.

For purposes of summarizing, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features have been described. It is to be understood that not all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any one particular embodiment. Thus, the disclosed subject matter may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages without achieving all advantages as may be taught or suggested.

The present invention comprises a satchel for collecting and disposing of pet waste, along with a method of use. In some embodiments, the satchel may comprise a main compartment, a front pouch, a top lid and a top zipper, a bottom lid and bottom zipper, a bag dispenser within the front pouch, and a carrying strap. The present invention may further comprise one or more connection elements configured to enable the strap to rotationally and releasably connect with the main compartment, thereby enabling user to wear the present invention.

It is contemplated that the present invention may be used in conjunction with various methods for collecting and disposing of pet waste. By way of illustration and not of limitation, one or more methods of the present invention may provide that a user first don the present invention, then follow an animal about. Once the animal has defecated, a user may first unzip the top lid, then remove a bag from a roll of bags contained within the front pouch and use the bag to pick up a poop. Once collected, the user may tie the bag (if the user is so inclined), then place the bag in the main compartment and zip the top lid closed. Immediately or eventually, as the user may see fit, the user may walk to a trashcan or other suitable receptacle. The user may then position the present invention above the receptacle and unzip the bottom lid, thereby opening the main compartment to the elements. After the bottom lid is sufficiently opened and therefore lowered away from the main compartment, the pet waste bag may fall out of the main compartment and into the receptacle without the user needing to touch the pet waste bag. The user may then zip the bottom lid closed and apply hand sanitizer, if the user has some at the ready.

One or more of the above-disclosed embodiments, in addition to certain alternatives, are provided in further detail below with reference to the attached figures. The disclosed subject matter is not, however, limited to any particular embodiment disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A shows a front view of a satchel in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1B shows a rear view of a satchel in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of a satchel in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 shows a front view of a satchel in a configuration wherein the top lid and bottom lid are unzipped and opened.

FIG. 4A shows a top view of a satchel in a configuration wherein the top lid and bottom lid are unzipped and opened.

FIG. 4B shows a top view of a satchel in a configuration wherein the top lid and bottom lid are unzipped and opened, and wherein a divider may be perceived.

FIG. 5 shows a first step in a method of use for an embodiment of a satchel of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows a second step in a method of use for an embodiment of a satchel of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows a third step in a method of use for an embodiment of a satchel of the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows a fourth step in a method of use for an embodiment of a satchel of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Having summarized various aspects of the present disclosure, reference will now be made in detail to that which is illustrated in the drawings. While the disclosure will be described in connection with these drawings, there is no intent to limit it to the embodiment or embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, the intent is to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents included within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “couples,” “coupling,” and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements or signals, electrically, mechanically or otherwise. Two or more electrical elements may be electrically coupled, but not mechanically or otherwise coupled; two or more mechanical elements may be mechanically coupled, but not electrically or otherwise coupled; two or more electrical elements may be mechanically coupled, but not electrically or otherwise coupled. Coupling (whether mechanical, electrical, or otherwise) may be for any length of time, e.g., permanent or semi-permanent or only for an instant.

With reference to FIG. 1A, a front view of a satchel in accordance with one embodiment of the invention is shown. In the embodiment depicted, a viewer may perceive satchel 100, main compartment 101, front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, pouch zipper 107, bag dispensing aperture 108, first anchor 109, first anchor connector 110, first releasable connection element 111, first buckle 112, first buckle connector 113, strap 114, second buckle 115, second buckle connector 116, second releasable connection element 117, second anchor connector 118, second anchor 119, first carrying connection 120, and second carrying connection 121.

Main compartment 101 is depicted in FIG. 1A in the shape of a cube. However, in some embodiments, main compartment 101 may be of any shape known in the art, such as a square, circle, cylinder, or even a triangle. Relatedly, although shown in FIG. 1A as having four sides, main compartment 101 may have one, two, three, five or more sides, any of which may be longer, shorter, wider or thinner than shown in FIG. 1A.

In some embodiments, main compartment 101 may be comprised of canvas, plastic, metal, elastomer, cotton, one or both sides of a hook and loop fastener, any organic or inorganic polymer, or any other material or combination of materials, such as by way of illustration and not limitation canvas and plastic, known in the art. In some embodiments, the exterior of main compartment 101 may be heat-resistant, reflective, insulated, padded, perforated, decorated, or ornamented with lights or other illumination elements.

The exterior of main compartment 101 may also provide for one or more pockets or additional features not disclosed in FIG. 1A. By way of illustration and not limitation, such a pocket could be a pocket configured to contain a mobile device, headphones, keys, a garage door opener, a flashlight, hand sanitizer, eyeglasses, sunglasses, a leash, or any other object capable of being contained in a pocket attached to main compartment 101.

Front pouch 102 may be configured to house a roll of pet waste bags (not shown in FIG. 1A). In some embodiments, front pouch 102 may be configured to rotationally house a roll of pet waste bags by providing at least one element for the purpose inside front pouch 102. For example, such an element may comprise a spindle configured to extend into the pet waste bag roll along the pet waste bag roll's axis, allowing the pet waste bags to spin around the spindle, mounted to at least one surface within front pouch 102.

Upper zipper 104, lower zipper 106, and pouch zipper 107, may be made of any zipper material known in the art, such as but not limited to, plastic, metal, any other organic or inorganic polymer, a plant-based fabric or material, or any other substance or element known in the art. In some embodiments, upper zipper 104, lower zipper 106, and pouch zipper 107, may be substituted in whole or in part by another fastening element, such as but not limited to a button, clasp, magnet pairing, snap enclosure, hook and loop pairing, snap-fit complementary pair, or other fastening elements known in the art.

Remaining with FIG. 1A, top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 may be comprised of the same or different material as main compartment 101, such as but not limited to one or a combination of canvas, plastic, elastomer, cotton, any organic or inorganic polymer, or any other material known in the art. In some embodiments, the exterior of either or both of top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 may be heat-resistant, reflective, insulated, padded, perforated, decorated, or ornamented with lights or other illumination elements.

FIG. 1A discloses an embodiment of the present invention wherein top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 (and therefore upper zipper 104 and lower zipper 106) comprise substantially the entire upper and lower sides, respectively, of main compartment 101. In other embodiments, top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 (and therefore upper zipper 104 and lower zipper 106) may comprise only portions of the upper and lower sides, respectively, of main compartment 101. In some embodiments, the present invention may provide for more than one top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 (and therefore upper zipper 104 and lower zipper 106) on either or both of the upper and lower sides, respectively, of main compartment 101.

Bag dispensing aperture 108 may take any shape known in the art capable of allowing one or more flattened pet waste bags to issue from the inside of front pouch 102 to the outside of front pouch 102. In some embodiments, bag dispensing aperture 108 may comprise simply an aperture of any such size. In some embodiments, however, an additional element may cover the opening of bag dispensing aperture 108, such as one or more plastic sheets, that may be configured to allow pet waste bags to issue forth from bag dispensing aperture 108, but not return inside front pouch 102.

In some embodiments, strap 114 may be a single strip of material, as generally depicted in FIG. 1A. Some embodiments, however, strap 114 may comprise more than one strap 114, a strap 114 having multiple bands, a crossover body strap 114, a shoulder strap 114, an around-the-waist strap 114, a strap 114 with a sliding pad (not shown) around the strap 114, or any carrying strap 114 known in the art. In some embodiments, strap 114 may be configured to carry the present invention over a user's shoulder. In some embodiments, strap 114 may be configured to carry the present across a user's torso. In some embodiments, strap 114 may be configured to carry the present invention around a user's waist. In some embodiments, strap 114 may be configured to switch from one carrying position to another. Strap 114 may be configured with any element of first carrying connection 120 and or second carrying connection 121 so as to enable any orientation of strap 114 in relation to the person of a user, in relationship to main compartment 101, or in any configuration whatsoever.

Together, first anchor 109, first anchor connector 110, first releasable connection element 111, first buckle 112, and first buckle connector 113 comprise one of many possible configurations of first carrying connection 120 wherein strap 114 is secured to main compartment 101. As may be contemplated by those of skill in the art, first carrying connection 120 may comprise any combination, omission, or duplication of one or more elements of first anchor 109, first anchor connector 110, first releasable connection element 111, first buckle 112, and first buckle connector 113 comprise one of many possible configurations of first carrying connection 120 wherein strap 114 is secured to main compartment 101.

Remaining with FIG. 1A, first anchor 109 is depicted as a strip of industrial fabric folded back into a loop over first anchor connector 110. In some embodiments, a first anchor 109 may comprise any element or feature around which or to which first anchor connector 110 may attach such as a series of rings or even one or more holes in one or more sides of main compartment 101. Any element that serves as a connection between strap 114 or any element comprising first carrying connection 120 is contemplated by the present invention.

Similarly, first releasable connection element 111 may comprise any releasable connection, in addition to the carabiner clip-shaped first releasable connection element 111 of FIG. 1A. In some embodiments, first releasable connection element 111 may comprise a trigger snap, a metal clasp, a pullback-tab connector, a lobster claw clasp, a spring hook, a swivel hook, a bolt snap, a spring wire gate snap hook, an open-ended hook, or any other releasable connection element known in the art. In some embodiments, first releasable connection element 111 may be permanently affixed to one or more of first buckle 112, first buckle connector 113, or strap 114. Any connection element known in the art, whether releasable or permanent, is contemplated as a suitable first releasable connection element 111.

Variations of first buckle 112 and first buckle connector 113 are also contemplated by the present invention. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1A, first buckle 112, and first buckle connector 113 are configured such that strap 114 passes in and out of first buckle 112, around the top portion of first buckle connector 113, and back through first buckle 112. In some embodiments, however, either of first buckle 112 and first buckle connector 113 may be omitted such that strap 114 is configured to engage solely one or the other of first buckle 112 and first buckle connector 113, or neither in an embodiment wherein strap 114 engages first releasable connection element 111. First buckle 112 and first buckle connector 113 may of course be of any configuration known in the art, such as configurations wherein strap 114 passes over or around or both of one, two, three or more crossbars within the sides of either or both of first buckle 112 and first buckle connector 113.

With respect to second buckle 115, second buckle connector 116, second releasable connection element 117, second anchor connector 118, second anchor 119, and second carrying connection 121, in some embodiments these elements may have the same alternative configurations with respect to size, shape, configuration, materials, and arrangement as described above for first buckle 112, first buckle connector 113, first releasable connection element 111, first anchor connector 110, first anchor 109, and first carrying connection 120, respectively and collectively.

Continuing with FIG. 1A, in embodiments having only one point of connection between strap 114 and main compartment 101, one or more of second buckle 115, second buckle connector 116, second releasable connection element 117, second anchor connector 118, and second anchor 119 may be omitted entirely, and strap 114 may secure to main compartment 101 via only one point of connection, including but not limited to one or more of first anchor 109, first anchor connector 110, first releasable connection element 111, first buckle 112, and first buckle connector 113.

With respect to FIG. 1B, a viewer may perceive rear pocket 151 and rear pocket notch 152, along with satchel 100, main compartment 101, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, first anchor 109, first anchor connector 110, first releasable connection element 111, first buckle 112, first buckle connector 113, strap 114, second buckle 115, second buckle connector 116, second releasable connection element 117, second anchor connector 118, second anchor 119, first carrying connection 120, and second carrying connection 121.

By way of illustration and not limitation, rear pocket 151 may comprise a pocket configured to contain a mobile device, headphones, a garage door opener, a flashlight, hand sanitizer, eyeglasses, sunglasses, a leash, miscellaneous papers, extra plastic rolls, a wallet, a cell phone, wipes, keys, a water bottle, or any other object capable of being contained in a pocket attached to main compartment 101. Some embodiments of the present invention may provide for more than one rear pocket 151. In embodiments having more than one rear pocket 151, any of rear pocket 151 may be of any size, shape, material, or configuration disclosed herein pertaining to any other rear pocket 151.

In some embodiments, rear pocket 151 may measure a square of five inches by five inches (5″×5″). In other embodiments, however, rear pocket 151 may be of any size or shape known in the art, such as but not limited to a rectangle, circle, or triangle shape. Additionally, in some embodiments, rear pocket 151 may further comprise a flap or other top closing element so as to cause rear pocket 151 to be removably closeable. It is contemplated that, in some such embodiments, the rear pocket 151 may be closeable by any method known in the art, such as but not limited to a button and buttonhole combination, magnetic fasteners, hook and loop fastening elements, snap enclosures, or any other element that enables removable closing of rear pocket 151.

Rear pocket notch 152, present in some embodiments, may provide easier access to rear pocket 151, as well as an additional surface for various uses. For example, should a user wish to deposit something partially into rear pocket 151, such as a billfold with keys attached, a user could hang part of the item, such as the keys portion, out of rear pocket 151 but still have them corralled by the shape of rear pocket notch 152. In some embodiments, the half-circular shape of rear pocket notch 152 may enable certain objects, such as a roll of bags or a rolled-up newspaper, to be better contained by rear pocket 151.

Rear pocket notch 152, present in some embodiments, may be of any size or shape known in the art, such as but not limited to circular (as generally shown in FIG. 1B), triangular, or square. In some embodiments, rear pocket notch 152 may be smaller than generally disclosed in FIG. 1B, or in other embodiments rear pocket notch 152 may be larger than generally disclosed in FIG. 1B. Additionally, some embodiments may provide for more than one rear pocket notch 152. In such embodiments, rear pocket notch 152 may be of any size, shape, material, or configuration known in the art.

Rear pocket 151, rear pocket notch 152, or both, may in some embodiments be comprised of any material known in the art, such as but not limited to canvas, plastic, cotton, elastomer, any organic or inorganic polymer, one or both sides of hook and loop fastening elements, metal, or any other material known in the art. Rear pocket 151, rear pocket notch 152, or both, may in some embodiments be heat-resistant, reflective, insulated, padded, perforated, decorated, or ornamented with lights or other illumination elements, or may have its own anchor(s), releasable connection element(s), and/or carrying connection(s).

A clip-on bottle of hand sanitizer, not pictured in FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B, is also contemplated as a part of the invention in some embodiments. Or, the hand sanitizer may comprise a built-in pouch, in some embodiments a refillable built-in pouch, having an opening. In embodiments wherein the clip-on hand sanitizer is configured to clip onto the strap, the clip-on sanitizer may be configured to slide along the strap, so as to be available for a user in any strap position. In some embodiments, the hand sanitizer may be provided as an attached element on the exterior of main compartment 101, inside main compartment 101, or in a pouch disposed on the exterior or interior of main compartment 101.

Turning attention to FIG. 2, a side view of a satchel in accordance with one embodiment of the invention discloses satchel 100, main compartment 101, front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, pouch zipper 107, strap 114, second buckle 115, second buckle connector 116, second releasable connection element 117, second anchor connector 118, and second anchor 119.

In the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 2, the relative dimensions of main compartment 101 and front pouch 102 are generally disclosed. Notably, in the non-limiting embodiment generally disclosed in FIG. 2, front pouch 102 is shown as protruding far enough from main compartment 101 as to be large enough to contain a commercially-available roll of pet waste bags. In some embodiments, at least one rear wall of front pouch 102 (not pictured) may separate entirely or partially the interior of front pouch 102 from the interior of main compartment 101. In other embodiments, the interior of front pouch 102 may lack a dividing element from the interior of main compartment 101.

Front pouch 102 may be of any size or shape known in the art, such as but not limited to a disc-shape or a square. In some embodiments, front pouch 102 may extend further from or nearer to the front of main compartment 101. Front pouch 102 may also be larger or smaller relative to main compartment 101, including but not limited to embodiments wherein front pouch 102 approximates the size of main compartment 101. Or, in some embodiments, front pouch 102 may lack an upper portion, thus remaining exposed from the top side, so as to provide for easier bag roll loading and unloading.

FIG. 2 also discloses the positioning of pouch zipper 107 relative to front pouch 102. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, pouch zipper 107 is shown positioned relatively high on the face of front pouch 102. In some embodiments, this positioning of pouch zipper 107 is to allow a user to easily insert and remove rolls of pet waste bags into and out of front pouch 102. However, in some embodiments, pouch zipper 107 may be positioned anywhere on the face of front pouch 102.

With respect to FIG. 3, a front view of a satchel in a configuration wherein the top lid and bottom lid are unzipped and opened is generally disclosed. In the embodiment depicted, satchel 100, main compartment 101, front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, pouch zipper 107, bag dispensing aperture 108, first anchor 109, first anchor connector 110, first releasable connection element 111, first buckle 112, first buckle connector 113, strap 114, second buckle 115, second buckle connector 116, second releasable connection element 117, second anchor connector 118, and second anchor 119 may be perceived.

Notably, FIG. 3 illustrates that top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106 are capable of creating a large opening in main compartment 101 when completely unzipped and opened wide. Additionally, when top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 are opened wide as shown in FIG. 3, the top and bottom openings together comprise a pass-through opening, such that, were an item placed into the top portion of satchel 100, and satchel 100 was oriented uprightly, gravity would cause the item to fall straight through main compartment 101 and exit the bottom portion of satchel 101. This configuration, and this result, is one of many intended uses and benefits of the present invention.

FIG. 3 also provides additional clarity concerning the shapes and relative sizes of top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 as compared to main compartment 101. In the non-limiting embodiment disclosed in FIG. 3, both top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 comprise the entire upper side and lower side, respectively, of main compartment 101. In some embodiments, top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 may of a different size or shape than disclosed in FIG. 3. For example, top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 could be circular, triangular, or any other shape. In embodiments wherein top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 comprise the entire upper side and lower side, respectively, of main compartment 101, the shapes of top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 may correspond to the perimeter outlines of main compartment 101. For example, in an embodiment wherein main compartment 101 is triangular, top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 may also be triangular. FIG. 3 also discloses the relative thicknesses of top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 according to at least one embodiment.

FIG. 4A generally discloses a top view of satchel 100 in a configuration wherein top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 are unzipped and opened. In the embodiment depicted, top lid hinge 401, main compartment interior lining 402, and bottom lid hinge 403 are shown, along with front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, pouch zipper 107 and strap 114. FIG. 4 generally discloses a top view of a similar, or identical, embodiment as disclosed in FIG. 3.

FIG. 4B generally discloses a top view of satchel 100 in a configuration wherein top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 are unzipped and opened and divider 404 may also be perceived. In the embodiment shown, top lid hinge 401, main compartment interior lining 402, bottom lid hinge 403, front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, pouch zipper 107 and strap 114 are also depicted. FIG. 4 generally discloses a top view of a similar, but not identical, embodiment as disclosed in FIG. 3.

In FIG. 4A a viewer may perceive the cavity, and in FIG. 4B the cavities, within main compartment 101 (not separately indicated) and may comprehend that an object, such as a used bag of pet waste, could pass both into and out of main compartment 101 unimpeded were, as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, upper zipper 104 and lower zipper 106 unzipped and top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 bent backwards per the flexibility of top lid hinge 401 and bottom lid hinge 403, respectively. Conversely, those of skill in the art will notice that were lower zipper 106 to be zipped closed, thereby drawing bottom lid 105 tightly to main compartment 101, a used bag of pet waste or another item would be contained within main compartment 101 indefinitely. Indeed, the present invention need not be limited to carrying bags of pet waste. It could be used to carry anything that could fit within main compartment 101.

In some embodiments, top lid hinge 401 and bottom lid hinge 403 may comprise single, unperforated pieces of fabric or other element capable of bending along an axis. In some embodiments, however, top lid hinge 401 and bottom lid hinge 403 may comprise metal hinges, chain links, or any other rotational connection. For example, either or both of top lid hinge 401 and bottom lid hinge 403 could, in some embodiments, provide for one or more holes or other perforations configured to pass along a ring as though pages around a three-ring binder, thus enabling top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 to rotate between one or more opened and closed positions, relative to main compartment 101, contemplated by the disclosed embodiment(s). Any rotational configuration as between either or both of top lid hinge 401 and bottom lid hinge 403 and main compartment 101 is contemplated by the present invention.

Main compartment interior lining 402 may be composed of any material disclosed herein, such as canvas, plastic, cotton, elastomer, any organic or inorganic polymer, one or both sides of hook and loop fastening elements, metal, or any other material known in the art. In some embodiments, main compartment interior lining 402 may be heat-resistant, reflective, insulated, padded, perforated, decorated, or ornamented with lights or other illumination elements, or may have its own anchor(s), releasable connection element(s), and/or carrying connection(s). Main compartment interior lining 402 may also provide for one or more pockets or additional features not disclosed in FIG. 4A or FIG. 4B. By way of illustration and not limitation, such a pocket could be a pocket configured to contain a mobile device, headphones, keys, a garage door opener, a flashlight, hand sanitizer, eyeglasses, sunglasses, a leash, or any other object capable of being contained in a pocket attached to main compartment 101, main compartment interior lining 402, divider 404, or any other element of the present invention.

In some embodiments, main compartment interior lining 402 may surround a main compartment cavity (not separately indicated). The main compartment cavity, which is generally the area bounded by main compartment interior lining 402 and the interior sides of top lid 103 and bottom lid 105, may in some embodiments be undivided, as generally shown in FIG. 4A.

In embodiments such as FIG. 4B, however, one or more dividing walls 404 may be disposed on main compartment interior lining 402. In some embodiments, one or more dividing walls 404 may stretch across from side to side of main compartment interior lining 402, as depicted in FIG. 4B, thereby creating one or more sub-main compartment interiors and associated cavities (not separately indicated). In some embodiments, one or more dividing walls 404 may be disposed on main compartment interior lining 402 and may stretch partially (not shown) across the main compartment cavity, creating one or more sides or sections within the main compartment cavity. Each of dividing walls 404 may have any properties disclosed for any surface or wall herein, such as having a pocket or a pouch, being insulated, perforated, or padded, and may be comprised of any material disclosed herein, such as canvas, plastic, cotton, elastomer, any organic or inorganic polymer, one or both sides of hook and loop fastening elements, metal, or any other material or element known in the art.

In FIG. 5, a viewer may perceive the first step in a method of use for a satchel of the present invention. In the embodiment depicted, satchel 100 is shown in a closed position, bags 501 are ready for use, and user 501 stands ready. Main compartment 101, front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, and lower zipper 106 may also be perceived.

FIG. 5 depicts the first step: readying satchel 100 for use. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, top lid 103, upper zipper 104 and lower zipper 106 are shown zipped up, effectively enclosing top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 to main compartment 101. Although FIG. 5 is here provided as the starting point of the method, showing a before-use configuration, it is important to note that the embodiment generally depicted in FIG. 5 could also represent a mid-use embodiment wherein a used pet waste bag has already been retrieved and deposited within main compartment 101.

Bags 501 are shown in FIG. 5 as non-limiting examples of any flat dispensable item. Substitutions for bags 501 could include an individual bag configured to be partially extended through bag dispensing aperture 108, cleaning wipes, napkins, or any other similarly flat and dispensable item or items. The curve of bags 501 as shown in FIG. 5 indicate that, in some embodiments, bags 501 represent the extension of a roll of bags (not shown) contained within front pouch 102.

Those of skill in the art will note the malleability of main compartment 101 as shown in FIG. 5. More specifically, viewers will note a crease just above front pouch 102 that roughly coincides to a bend in main compartment 101, presumably caused by main compartment 101 conforming to the body positioning of user 502. Notably, top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 appear to have retained their shape, which in some embodiments is the result of rigidity caused by either an inflexibility of top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 or by the zipped-up configuration of both lower zipper 106 and upper zipper 104 as shown in FIG. 5, or both. In some embodiments, top lid 103 and bottom lid 105 may be comprised of flexible material, lower zipper 106 and upper zipper 104 may be flexible when zipped-up, or both. In some embodiments, part of all of main compartment 101 may be inflexible, less flexible than shown in FIG. 5, or more flexible than shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 discloses a second step in a method of use for a satchel of the present invention. In the embodiment depicted, satchel 100 is shown in a closed position, and main compartment 101, front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, bags 501, and user 502 may be perceived.

In the embodiment generally disclosed in FIG. 6, user 502 has decided to begin tearing off a bag from bags 501. In some embodiments, user 502 will be tearing off a bag from bags 501 because the user wishes to pick up a piece of poop with the torn-off bag. However, this need not be so. User 502 may require a bag for any other purpose.

Additionally, in some embodiments, FIG. 6 may disclose a step in a method wherein user 502 adjusts, but does not tear apart, bags 501. As discussed elsewhere herein, the present invention may be configured to house a roll of bags (not pictured) within front pouch 102. As such, in some embodiments, FIG. 6 may disclose user 502 adjusting bags 501 without tearing off a bag, or adjusting bags 501 without before tearing off a bag.

FIG. 7 discloses a third step in a method of use for a satchel of the present invention. In the embodiment depicted, satchel 100 is shown in a top-open, bottom-closed position, and main compartment 101, front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, bags 501 and used bag 701 may be observed.

In the step of the method disclosed in FIG. 7, user 502 has utilized a torn-off bag from bags 501 to collect a substance. In some embodiments, used bag 701 may contain pet waste. In some embodiments, used bag 701 may contain more than one identifiable unit of pet waste. In other embodiments, used bag 701 may contain any item capable of containment within used bag 701.

In the embodiment shown, by keeping lower zipper 106 zipped-up, bottom lid 105 remains secured against main compartment 101, thereby creating and maintaining a base for satchel 100. Once deposited within main compartment 101, used bag 701 remains resting atop the interior side of bottom lid 105. This configuration is an important step, because this enables user 502 to transport used bag 701 without having to touch used bag 701, as used bag 701 is resting within main compartment 101 and held in place by zipped-up bottom lid 105.

FIG. 8 shows a fourth step in a method of use for an embodiment of a satchel of the present invention. In the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 8, satchel 100 is shown in a top-closed, bottom-open position, with main compartment 101, front pouch 102, top lid 103, upper zipper 104, bottom lid 105, lower zipper 106, bags 501, used bag 701 and trashcan 801 also depicted.

In the final step of the method, FIG. 8 discloses user 502 as approaching trashcan 801, with satchel 100 positioned above trashcan 801. It is important to note that any proper receptacle, such as a dumpster, could be substituted for trashcan 801. In the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 8, user 502 is depicted as having unzipped lower zipper 106 and is pulling back bottom lid 105, allowing used bag 701 to fall into trashcan 801. A close observer of FIG. 8 will notice that user 502 does not need to touch used bag 701 in order to dispose of it according to the method disclosed herein and depicted in FIG. 8. This touchless disposal feature is a key benefit, though by no means the only benefit, of the present invention.

It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments are merely examples of possible implementations. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents.

CONCLUSIONS, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE

While certain embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, various modifications are contemplated and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the invention not be limited, except as by the appended claim(s).

The teachings disclosed herein may be applied to other systems, and may not necessarily be limited to any described herein. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. All of the above patents and applications and other references, including any that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporated herein by reference. Aspects of the invention can be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions and concepts of the various references described above to provide yet further embodiments of the invention.

Particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being refined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the present invention with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be constructed to limit the present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above description section explicitly define such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosed present invention. The above description of embodiments of the present invention is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the precise form disclosed above or to a particular field of usage.

While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the present invention are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible for which those skilled in the relevant art will recognize.

While certain aspects of the present invention are presented below in particular claim forms, various aspects of the present invention are contemplated in any number of claim forms. Thus, the inventor reserves the right to add additional claims after filing the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the present invention.

Claims

1. A satchel, comprising:

at least one main compartment having at least one main compartment wall, at least one main compartment wall interior, at least one main compartment wall exterior, at least one main compartment cavity comprising at least part of an area defined by the at least one main compartment wall interior, a main compartment upper edge and a main compartment lower edge;

at least one upper zipper having an upper zipper lower row and an upper zipper upper row, wherein the upper zipper lower row is fixedly connected to the main compartment upper edge;

at least one top lid having a top lid exterior side, a top lid interior side, a top lid lower edge and a top lid upper edge, wherein the top lid lower edge is fixedly connected to the upper zipper upper row;

at least one top lid hinge hingely connected to the main compartment upper edge and the top lid interior side;

at least one lower zipper having a lower zipper lower row and a lower zipper upper row, wherein the lower zipper upper row is fixedly connected to the main compartment lower edge;

at least one bottom lid having a bottom lid exterior side, a bottom lid interior side, a bottom lid lower edge and a bottom lid upper edge, wherein the bottom lid upper edge is fixedly connected to the lower zipper lower row;

at least one bottom lid hinge hingely connected to the at least one main compartment lower edge and the bottom lid interior side;

at least one front pouch disposed on the at least one main compartment wall exterior, the at least one front pouch having at least one front pouch interior, a front pouch exterior, and at least one front pouch cavity comprising at least part of an area defined by the front pouch interior;

at least one front pouch zipper disposed on the front pouch exterior, wherein the at least one front pouch zipper comprises a portion of the at least one front pouch exterior, wherein the at least one front pouch zipper is configured to have a front pouch zipped position and a front pouch unzipped position, wherein the front pouch unzipped position has a front pouch unzipped position opening width, wherein the front pouch unzipped position opening width is sufficient to enable passage of the at least one roll of bags into and out from the front pouch interior;

at least one bag dispensing aperture disposed on the front pouch exterior;

at least one anchor element disposed on the at least one main compartment wall exterior;

at least one carrying connection removably connected to the at least one anchor element; and

at least one strap connected to the at least one carrying connection.

2. The satchel of claim 1, wherein the at least one front pouch interior is configured to removably retain at least one roll of pet waste bags.

3. The satchel of claim 1, wherein the at least one carrying connection comprises a first anchor connector movably connected to the at least one anchor element, a first releasable connection element releasably connected to the first anchor connector, a first buckle connector held in position by the at least one strap and releasably connected to the first releasable connection element, and at least one first buckle connector configured to removably attach to the at least one strap.

4. The satchel of claim 3, further comprising:

a second anchor element; and

a second carrying connection comprising a second anchor connector movably connected to the second anchor element, a second releasable connection element releasably connected to the second anchor connector, a second buckle connector held in position by the at least one strap and releasably connected to the second releasable connection element, and at least one second buckle connector configured to removably attach to the at least one strap.

5. The satchel of claim 1, further comprising at least one divider wall disposed on the at least one main compartment wall interior.

6. The satchel of claim 1, further comprising at least one pocket disposed on the at least one main compartment wall exterior.

7. The satchel of claim 1, wherein the at least one main compartment wall is four main compartment walls, comprising:

a front main compartment wall, wherein the at least one front pouch is disposed on the front wall;

a rear main compartment wall;

a first main compartment side wall;

at least one anchor element disposed on the first main compartment side wall; and

a second main compartment side wall.

8. The satchel of claim 1, further comprising at least one pocket disposed on the at least one main compartment wall interior.

9. A method of using a satchel, comprising the steps of:

providing a satchel, comprising: a) a main compartment having at least one main compartment wall, at least one main compartment wall interior, at least one main compartment wall exterior, at least one main compartment cavity comprising at least part of an area defined by the at least one main compartment wall interior, at least one main compartment upper edge and at least one main compartment lower edge; b) at least one upper zipper having an upper zipper lower row and an upper zipper upper row, wherein the upper zipper lower row is fixedly connected to the main compartment upper edge; c) at least one top lid having a top lid exterior side and a top lid interior side, a top lid lower edge and a top lid upper edge, wherein the top lid lower edge is fixedly connected to the upper zipper upper row; d) at least one top lid hinge hingely connected to the at least one main compartment upper edge and the at least one tip lid interior side; e) at least one lower zipper having a lower zipper lower row and a lower zipper upper row, wherein the lower zipper upper row is fixedly connected to the main compartment lower edge; f) at least one bottom lid having a bottom lid exterior side and a bottom lid interior side, a bottom lid lower edge and a bottom lid upper edge, wherein the bottom lid upper edge is fixedly connected to the lower zipper lower row; g) at least one bottom lid hinge hingely connected to the at least one main compartment lower edge and the at least one bottom lid interior side; h) at least one front pouch disposed on the at least one main compartment wall exterior, the at least one front pouch having at least one front pouch interior, at least one front pouch cavity comprising at least part of an area defined by the front pouch interior, and a front pouch exterior; i) at least one front pouch zipper disposed on the front pouch exterior, wherein the at least one front pouch zipper comprises a portion of the at least one front pouch exterior, wherein the at least one front pouch zipper is configured to have a front pouch zipped position and a front pouch unzipped position having a front pouch unzipped position opening with a front pouch unzipped position opening width, wherein the front pouch unzipped position opening width is sufficient to enable passage of the at least one roll of bags into and out from the front pouch interior; j) at least one bag dispensing aperture disposed on the front pouch exterior; k) at least one anchor element disposed on the at least one main compartment wall exterior; l) at least one carrying connection removably connected to the at least one anchor element; and m) at least one strap connected to the at least one carrying connection.

zipping the at least one upper zipper and the at least one lower zipper closed;

unzipping the at least one front pouch zipper;

providing at least one roll of pet waste bags;

inserting the at least one roll of pet waste bags having a leading edge into the at least one front pouch interior;

pulling the leading edge out of the at least one bag dispensing aperture;

zipping the at least one front pouch zipper closed;

locating a unit of pet waste;

tearing off a pet waste bag from the roll of pet waste bags;

using the pet waste bag to pick up the pet waste;

rolling the pet waste bag around the pet waste, making a used pet waste bag with the pet waste inside;

unzipping the upper zipper;

lifting the top lid;

depositing the used pet waste bag into the at least one main compartment interior;

moving the satchel above a trash can;

unzipping the at least one lower zipper;

moving the at least one bottom lid away from the at least one main compartment lower edge, and;

allowing the used pet waste bag to fall into the trashcan.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the at least one carrying connection comprises a first anchor connector movably connected to the at least one anchor element, a first releasable connection element releasably connected to the first anchor connector, a first buckle connector held in position by the at least one strap and releasably connected to the first releasable connection element, and at least one first buckle connector configured to removably attach to the at least one strap.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the satchel further comprises:

a second anchor element; and

a second carrying connection comprising a second anchor connector movably connected to the second anchor element, a second releasable connection element releasably connected to the second anchor connector, a second buckle connector held in position by the at least one strap and releasably connected to the second releasable connection element, and at least one second buckle connector configured to removably attach to the at least one strap.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein the satchel further comprises at least one divider wall disposed on the at least one main compartment wall interior.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein the satchel further comprises at least one pocket disposed on the at least one main compartment wall exterior.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein the at least one main compartment wall is four main compartment walls, comprising:

a front main compartment wall, wherein the at least one front pouch is disposed on the front wall;

a rear main compartment wall;

a first main compartment side wall;

at least one anchor element disposed on the first main compartment side wall; and

a second main compartment side wall.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the satchel further comprises at least one pocket disposed on the at least one main compartment wall interior.