SECURITY BAG WITH PRIVACY ELEMENT

Abstract

A transparent bag suitable for carrying into venues holding out such security requirements and a cover that can be removeably secured to the bag to provide privacy and safety when the bag is not being inspected but that can be removed to facilitate bag inspections.

Description

BACKGROUND

Around the year 2016, a wave began to flow across our country that was striking at popular venues and events. Over a short period of time, it has almost become a universal standard in large sporting and entertainment events. This wave is known in sporting world as the “game-day bag” requirement but, it is also known as “clear bag” and “security bag” requirements.

As is usually the case, a few incidents gave rise to a security concern, and as the old adage goes, necessity is the mother of invention. To help provide security and safety in largely populated event venues, this wave of requiring “game-day bags” or clear bags began to rise in popularity. Before requiring patrons to carry a clear bag into a venue, security guards were required to open a bag, stick their hands into the bag and move items around, take items out, etc. to adequately confirm that prohibited items were not being brought into the venue. As one can imagine, this activity can feel like a huge breach of privacy to the patron, and can be quite uncomfortable for the security guard—never knowing what he or she may stick their hands into. However, with the requirement that patrons carry a security bag into a venue, the time to inspect the bags has been decreased, the quality of the inspections greatly increased, as well as other benefits have been realized.

But the reader will appreciate that most security measures come at a cost. This cost is usually in the form of a loss or privacy and/or freedom. With the implementation of clear bag policies, this is also the case. With all of your personal belongings clearly visible to people in your immediate vicinity, it is easier for thieves to target bags that will have a great yield. For instance, a thief can easily see if there is a significant amount of money, an expensive phone, valuable jewelry, a money holder or other things of value by conducting a quick scan. In addition, it is often that people need to carry items that are quite necessary but also quite personal. With a clear bag policy, an individual's privacy is easily compromised in such situations.

Thus, there is a need in the art for a technique to provide the security and safety measures attained by clear bag policies but, to still maintain a level of privacy and freedom for individuals carrying a clear bag. The present disclosure describes various embodiments of a solution to this need in the art, as well as other needs.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The present invention, as well as features and aspects thereof, is directed towards a security or safety bag, purse or container that includes a detachable and removable privacy cover. More specifically, the various embodiments of the present invention include a container that is constructed of at least one panel made from a transparent material and then reinforced with an opaque material along the edges of the panels where they are connected together and optionally a panel made from an opaque material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1, is a rendering of an embodiment of a container that is suitable for use in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the container is illustrated as being in the shape of a barrel.

FIG. 2 is a rendering of an embodiment of a container cover that is suitable for use with the container illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A is a side-view rendering of a first end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a front-view rendering of a first end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3C is a side-view rendering of a second end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3D is a front-view rendering of a second end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3E is a back-view rendering of a second end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4A, is a rendering of an embodiment of a container that is suitable for use in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the container is illustrated as being in the shape of a bucket.

FIG. 4B is a rendering of an embodiment of a container cover that is suitable for use with the container illustrated in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A, is a rendering of an embodiment of a container that is suitable for use in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the container is illustrated as being in the shape of a rectangle.

FIG. 5B is a rendering of an embodiment of a container cover that is suitable for use with the container illustrated in FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a tote cover for a security tote bag.

FIG. 6B is a front view of the tote cover of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a tote cover for a security tote bag.

FIG. 7B is a front view of the tote cover of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of one method for mounting materials or panels together in the various embodiments of the security container.

FIG. 9A is an embodiment of a security bag including an expansion feature and pockets for receiving a privacy panel.

FIG. 9B is an embodiment of a security bag including an expansion feature and pockets for receiving a privacy panel illustrated in the expanded mode.

FIG. 10A is an illustration of the bag of FIG. 9A showing the use of a panel being inserted into the pocked of the front face.

FIG. 10B illustrates a variety of privacy panels that may be utilized in various embodiments of the security bag.

FIG. 11A is an illustration of the bag of FIG. 9A, or a variant of the bag showing the use of a panel being attached to or placed upon the front face.

FIG. 11B illustrates a variety of privacy panels that may be utilized in various embodiments of the security bag.

FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram of a decorative cling that is suitable for embodiments of the present invention or for other decorating.

FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the decorative cling from FIG. 12 in use on a bag.

FIG. 14 illustrates another use for the decorative cling from FIG. 12 or a variation thereof.

FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a decorative cling.

FIG. 16 illustrates an alternate conceptual use for the decorative clings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

The present invention, as well as features and aspects thereof, is directed towards a security or safety bag, purse or container that includes a detachable and removable privacy cover. More specifically, the various embodiments of the present invention include a container that is constructed of at least one panel made from a transparent material and optionally a panel made from an opaque material and then reinforced with an opaque material along the edges of the panels where they are connected together. The various aspects, features and elements of the various embodiments are better understood by examining the figures, in which like labels refer to like elements throughout the various views.

FIG. 1, is a rendering of an embodiment of a container that is suitable for use in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the container is illustrated as being in the shape of a barrel. In the illustrated embodiment, the container 100 includes a first side panel 102a and a second side panel 102b that are substantially parallel to each other and define opposing ends of the barrel container 100. The body or body panel 104 of the barrel container 100 is formed by a panel that is made from a transparent material.

It should be appreciated that in one embodiment, the first side panel 102a and the second side panel 102b are a leather material, however, it will be appreciated that these panels could be constructed of any of a variety of materials including plastics, cloths, woven and non-woven materials, silicon and other flexible materials as well as non-flexible materials such as woods, plastics, metals, composite materials and metal alloys as a few non-limiting examples. Further, in the various embodiments the first side panel 102a and/or the second side panel 102b may be transparent, translucent or opaque. In the illustrated embodiment, the first side panel 102a and the second side panel 102b are illustrated as being circular with a diameter of D1, however, in other embodiments, the first side panel 102a and the second side panel 102b may be oval, egg-shaped, rectangular, square, triangular, trapezoidal and gum-drop-shaped as a few non-limiting examples.

It should also be appreciated that the body panel 104 can be made of a soft malleable plastic, a semi-rigid plastic or a rigid plastic as long as the material is transparent. In some embodiments the body panel 104 may be slightly tinted or tinted but not to an extent that it would obstruct the view of the container interior.

The body panel 104, when deconstructed and laid flat, is in the shape of a rectangle and thus, the body panel 104 includes a first edge 106a and a second edge 106b that are on opposing sides of the rectangle and which are substantially parallel to each other. The body panel 104 also includes a first end edge 108a and a second end edge 108b, which are also on opposing ends of the rectangle and substantially parallel to each other. The first edge 106a, the second edge 106b, the first end edge 108a and the second end edge 108b are not fully visible in the drawing because the view is obstructed by other material. The length of the body panel 104 from the first edge 106a to the second edge 106b is L1. In some embodiments L1 is 8 inches, in other embodiments L1 can range from 6 to 10 inches, in other embodiments, L1 can extend over even a wider range.

The borders of the body panel 104 are trimmed and thus, the entire perimeter of the body panel 104 is trimmed with the first edge 106a being trimmed by material 110a, the second edge 106b being trimmed by material 110b, the first end edge 108a being trimmed by material 112a and the second end edge 108b being trimmed by material 112b. In the illustrated embodiment, the trim is shown as having the width dimension of W1a for side trims 110a and 110b, and the width dimension W1b for the ends 112a and 112b. In an exemplary embodiment, W1a and W1b are ¾ of an inch, however, this measurement can range from zero inches to 1 inch or even more in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the trim is applied to the body panel 104 by folding a material over the edge of the body panel 104 such that a substantially even amount of material is on both faces of the body panel 104, and then stitching through the outside trim, body panel 104 and underside trim as shown with stitching 114a, 114b, 114c and 114d.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of one method for mounting materials or panels together in the various embodiments of the security container. As a non-limiting example of the operation of this construct, two pieces of body material, such as the body panel 104 and the first side panel 102a are joined together by folding a piping material 802 around a piping core 804 and aligning the edges of the piping material with the edges of body panel 104 and first side panel 102a to be joined together and then encompassing the ends within a binding 806 and then running stitching through the binding 806, body panel 104 (with trim) piping 802, first side panel 102a, the other end of binding 806 and then back through 808. The piping core 804 is positioned such that it will be visible on the outside of the container and the binding 806 will be within the interior.

By using the technique illustrated in FIG. 8, or some other technique, the body panel 104 is joined to the first side panel 102a and the second side panel 102b to form the barrel container 100. The piping 116a is between the first side panel 102a and the body panel 104, and the piping 116b is between the second side panel 102b and the body panel 104.

The first and second end edges (108a and 108b) of the body panel 104 are thus held in proximity to each other and together, they define the perimeter of an opening 118 to provide access into an interior area or void that is defined by the inner surfaces of the body panel and the first side panel 102a and the second side panel 102b. In the illustrated embodiment, a zipper 120 is shown as a sealing mechanism for securing the opening 118 into a closed state or allowing the opening to be placed into an open state. However, it should be appreciated that in various embodiments, other techniques such as snaps, buttons, VELCRO or other loop and hook material, tie string, magnets, clasps, and spring or snap strips as a few non-limiting examples may be used to secure the opening or, in other embodiments, the opening may be left open and nothing is used to secure it into a closed position.

It should be appreciated that the illustrated embodiment allows the ease of viewing of any items that are placed within the interior of the container, which it the illustrated embodiment can be a handbag or purse. In addition, the container includes two rings or D-rings 122a and 122b that are adjoined to the container 100 by looped straps 124a and 124b respectively. As such, a strap, similar to the strap illustrated in FIG. 3A-3E, can be connected to the rings 122a and 122b for carrying the container over ones shoulder or in the hands.

In the illustrated embodiment, the container 100 is also illustrated as including a cover receptor interface positioned on an outside surface of the container 100 in proximity with and along a length of the perimeter edge of opening 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover receptor interface consists of a plurality of snaps 126a-f that are positioned along the perimeter edge of the opening with three snaps being located on each side of the opening 118.

FIG. 2 is a rendering of an embodiment of a container cover that is suitable for use with the container illustrated in FIG. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the container cover 200 consist of a single panel 202, which in the illustrated embodiment, is rectangular in shape. The single panel 202 includes a first side edge 206a and a second side edge 206b that are located on opposing sides of the rectangular shape and are substantially parallel to each other. In addition, the single panel 202 includes a first end 208a and a second end 208b that are also located on opposing sides of the rectangular shape and are substantially parallel to each other and are substantially perpendicular to the first side edge 206a and the second side edge 206b. The first side edge 206a and the second side edge 206b are formed by folding a portion of the edges over and then stitching through the fold with stitching 214a and 214b respectively. Further, the first end edge 208a and the second end edge 208b are also formed by folding the edge under itself and stitching the fold with stitching 214c and 214d. In the illustrated embodiment, the fold for the first end edge 208a and the second end edge 208b has a width of W2. In an exemplary embodiment W2 is about 1 inch but in other embodiments, W2 may be larger or smaller than 1 inch.

The interior surface 240 of the single panel 202 of the container cover 200 includes a connector interface region 242a and 242b, respectively associated with first end edge 208a and second end edge 208b that house the connector interface. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector interface includes snaps 226a-c illustrated in connector interface region 242a and three additional snaps in connector interface region 204b (not shown but illustrated by dotted lines as 226d-f).

The length of the single panel 202 extending from the first side edge 206a to the second side edge 206b is L2. In an exemplary embodiment, L2 is approximately 8 inches, in another embodiment, L2 can range from about 6 to 10 inches. In yet other embodiments, L2 can vary over a wider range. In exemplary embodiments, L2 should approximately be the same as L1 in FIG. 1 but, with the trimming, it is acceptable for L2 to be less than L1. In addition, in some embodiments, the first side edge 206a and the second side edge 206b may protrude inward so as to secure the single panel 202 around the edges of the barrel container 100. In such embodiments, L2 should be slightly larger than L1.

In addition, the distance between the first end edge 208a and the second end edge 208b is D2. D2 should be of sufficient length to allow the connector interface of the container cover to mate with the cover receptor interface 126a-e of the container 100. In an exemplary embodiment, D2 is 13 and ⅜ inches. In other embodiments, D2 may be larger or smaller than 13 and ⅜ inches depending on the size of the barrel container 100.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connector interface includes snaps that mate with the snaps located in the cover receptor interface. However, it should be appreciated that rather than snaps, other techniques may be used to secure the container cover 200 to the container, including techniques such as buttons, VELCRO or other loop and hook material, tie string, magnets, clasps, collar pins and spring or snap strips as a few non-limiting examples.

FIGS. 3A-3E, which collectively may be referred to as FIG. 3, illustrate several views of an exemplary strap that may be used on various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3A is a side-view rendering of a first end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3B is a front-view rendering of a first end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention. This end of the strap 300 includes a connector 310 that includes a D-Ring type connection 315 to the strap 300. The strap 300 includes a loop 320 that is looped around the flat end of the D-Ring 315 and then sewed onto itself to fixedly attach the connector 310 to the strap 300. A decorate loop 325 can be used to conceal the connection point of the loop 320.

FIG. 3C is a side-view rendering of a second end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3D is a front-view rendering of a second end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3E is a back-view rendering of a second end of a strap that is suitable for use with the various embodiments of the present invention. On the second end of the strap, a similar connector 311 is included with D-Ring 316. Again, loop 321 is used to fixedly attach the connector 311 to the strap and loop 326 is used to conceal the stitching for loop 321. It should be noted that the strap 300 includes a first strap 330 depicted in FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B FIG. 3C and FIG. 3E, and a second strap 332 depicted in FIG. 3C and FIG. 3D. The first strap 330 has an end point 334. Strap 330 is fed through loops 326 and 327. The first strap includes a plurality of apertures 340 and the second strap 332 includes a plurality of pins, connector or collar pins 342. The apertures 340 of the first strap can receive the collar pins 342 to secure the first strap 330 and the second strap 332 to each other and, having multiple apertures 340 allows for the length of the strap 300 to be adjusted.

FIG. 4A, is a rendering of an embodiment of a container that is suitable for use in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the container is illustrated as being in the shape of a bucket. In the illustrated embodiment, the container 400 includes a bottom panel 402 and a body panel 404. The body or body panel 404 of the bucket container 400 is formed by a single panel that is made from a transparent material but, could also be formed from multiple panels as well.

It should be appreciated that in one embodiment, the bottom panel 402 is constructed out of a leather material, however, it will be appreciated that these panels could be constructed of any of a variety of materials including plastics, cloths, woven and non-woven materials, silicon and other flexible materials as well as non-flexible materials such as woods, plastics, metals, composite materials and metal alloys as a few non-limiting examples. Further, in the various embodiments the bottom panel may be transparent, translucent or opaque. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom panel 402 is illustrated as being circular with a diameter of D4, however, in other embodiments, the bottom panel 402 may be oval, egg-shaped, rectangular, square, triangular, trapezoidal and gum-drop-shaped as a few non-limiting examples. In an exemplary embodiment D4 is about 6 inches, but in other embodiments D4 may range from 4 to 10 inches, and in other embodiments D4 may vary over a wider range.

It should also be appreciated that the body panel 404 can be made of a soft malleable plastic, a semi-rigid plastic or a rigid plastic as long as the material is transparent. In some embodiments the body panel 404 may be slightly tinted or tinted but not to an extent that it would obstruct the view of the container interior.

The body panel 404, when deconstructed and laid flat, is in the shape of a rectangle and thus, the body panel 404 includes a first edge 406a and a second edge 406b that are on opposing sides of the rectangle and which are substantially parallel to each other. The body panel 404 also includes a top edge 408a and a bottom edge 408b, which are also on opposing ends of the rectangle and substantially parallel to each other. The first edge 406a, the second edge 406b, the top edge 408a and the bottom edge 408b are not fully visible in the drawing because the view is obstructed by other material. The height of the body panel 404 from the top edge 408a to the bottom edge 408b is H4. In some embodiments H4 is 8.5 inches, in other embodiments H4 can range from 6 to 10 inches, in other embodiments, H4 can extend over even a wider range.

The borders of the body panel 404 are trimmed and thus, the entire perimeter of the body panel 404 is trimmed. To form the bucket container, the first edge 406a is brought into contact with the second edge 406b thus forming a cylinder. The abutted first edge 406b and second edge 406b are trimmed by material 410a and the abutment is illustrated as a broken line running vertically in the middle of trip material 410. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment, a second trimming 410b can be applied to the opposing side of the cylinder from the trim 410a to create symmetry. In yet other embodiments, it should be appreciated that the body panel 404 can consist of two panels that are joined together under the trip 410a and 410b. The top edge 408a is trimmed by material 412a and the bottom edge 408b is trimmed by material 412b. In the illustrated embodiment, the trim at the top edge 408a is shown as having the width dimension of W4a, and the width dimension W4b for the bottom end 408b. In an exemplary embodiment, W4a and W4b are 1 inch, however, this measurement can range from zero inches to 1 inch or even more in some embodiments and in some embodiments the width W4a may be larger or smaller than the width W4b.

In some embodiments, the trim is applied to the body panel 404 by folding a material over the edge of the body panel 404 such that a substantially even amount of material is on both faces of the body panel 404, and then stitching through the outside trim, body panel 404 and underside trim as shown with stitching 414a, 414b, 414c and 414d.

Similar to the description of the embodiment of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, FIG. 8 is an illustration of one method for mounting materials or panels together in the various embodiments of the bucket security container 400 as well.

By using the technique illustrated in FIG. 8, or some other technique, the body panel 404 is joined to the bottom panel 402 to form the bucket container 400. The piping 416 is applied between the bottom panel 402 and the body panel 404.

The top edge 408a, thus defines the perimeter of an opening 418 to provide access into an interior area or void that is defined by the inner surfaces of the body panel 404 and the bottom panel 402. In some embodiments, a rigid ring can be included within the trip 412a to help provide strength to the opening but in other embodiments, the opening is left flexible so that it can be closed and secured into a closed state or allowing the opening to be placed into an open state. It should be appreciated that in various embodiments, various techniques can be used for securing the opening 418 in a closed state, such as snaps, buttons, VELCRO or other loop and hook material, tie string, magnets, zippers, clasps, collar pins and spring or snap strips as a few non-limiting examples may be used to secure the opening or, in other embodiments, the opening may be left open and nothing is used to secure it into a closed position.

It should be appreciated that the illustrated embodiment allows the ease of viewing of any items that are placed within the interior of the container, which in the illustrated embodiment can be a handbag or purse. In addition, the container may include two rings or D-rings similar to the barrel container 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 to receive a strap. As such, a strap, similar to the strap illustrated in FIG. 3A-3E, can be connected to the rings for carrying the bucket container 400 over one's shoulder or in the hands. However, as is illustrated in FIG. 4A, the trim areas 414a and 414b can include a plurality of snaps and the strap 420 can include corresponding mating snaps and thus allow the strap to be snapped into place. In some embodiments that strap can be of adjustable length.

In the illustrated embodiment, the container 400 is also illustrated as including a cover receptor interface positioned on an outside surface of the container 400 in proximity with and along a length of the perimeter edge of opening 418. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover receptor interface consists of a plurality of snaps 426 that are positioned along the perimeter edge of the opening 418.

FIG. 4B is a rendering of an embodiment of a container cover that is suitable for use with the container illustrated in FIG. 4A. In the illustrated embodiment, the container cover 450 consist of two panels 452a and 452b, which in the illustrated embodiment, includes a scalloped fringe design. However, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, a single panel can be used or more than 2 panels could be used. In addition, the panels may be rectangular, or include a rounded bottom, or other styles. The illustrated panels 452a and 452b include a top edge 458a and 458b respectively. The top edges 458a and 458b are formed by folding a portion of the edges of the respective panels over and then stitching through the fold with stitching 264a and 264b respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the fold for the top edges 408a and 408b have a width of W4c. In an exemplary embodiment W4c is about 1 inch but in other embodiments, W4c may be larger or smaller than 1 inch.

The interior surface 490a and 490b of the single panel 452a and 452b respectively of the container cover 400 includes a connector interface region 492a and 492b (not shown), respectively associated with top edge 408 of the container 400 that houses the cover receptor interface. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector interface includes snaps 476 illustrated in connector interface region 492a and three additional snaps in connector interface region 492b (not shown but illustrated by dotted lines).

The height of the panels 452a and 452b vary with the scalloped edge but in the illustrated embodiment, the length of the panel or drape ranges from H4B to H4C. In an exemplary embodiment, H4B is approximately 8.5 inches and H4C is approximately 10.5 inches. In another embodiments, H4B and H4C can be the same value and have a length of a wider range. In exemplary embodiments, H4B and H4C should approximately be the same or greater than H4A in FIG. 4A but, with the trimming, it is acceptable for H4B and H4C to be less than H4A.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connector interface includes snaps that mate with the snaps located in the cover receptor interface. However, it should be appreciated that rather than snaps, other techniques may be used to secure the container cover 200 to the container, including techniques such as buttons, VELCRO or other loop and hook material, tie string, magnets, clasps, collar pins and spring or snap strips as a few non-limiting examples. It should also be appreciated that a cover similar to the rectangular cover illustrated in FIG. 2 could also be used for the bucket container 400. For instance, another cover connecter interface could be positioned along the bottom of the bucket container.

FIG. 5A, is a rendering of an embodiment of a container that is suitable for use in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the container is illustrated as being in the shape of a rectangle, or an envelope. In the illustrated embodiment, the container 500 includes a first side edge 502a and a second side panel 502b that are substantially parallel to each other and define opposing ends of the envelope container 500. The body of the envelope container 500 is formed by a panel 504 that is made from a transparent material.

It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the body panel 504 can be made of a soft malleable plastic, a semi-rigid plastic or a rigid plastic as long as the material is transparent. In some embodiments the body panel 504 may be slightly tinted or tinted but not to an extent that it would obstruct the view of the container interior.

The body panel 504, when deconstructed and laid flat, is in the shape of a rectangle and thus, the body panel 504 includes the first side edge 502a and a second side edge 502b that are on opposing sides of the rectangle and which are substantially parallel to each other. The body panel 504 also includes a first end edge 508a and a second end edge 508b, which are also on opposing ends of the rectangle and substantially parallel to each other. The first side edge 502a, the second side edge 502b, the first end edge 508a and the second end edge 508b are not fully visible in the drawing because the view is obstructed by other material. The length of the body panel 504 from the first side edge 506a to the second side edge 506b is L5a. In some embodiments L5a is 9 inches, in other embodiments L5a can range from 7 to 11 inches, in other embodiments, L5a can extend over even a wider range. Further, when the body panel 504 is folded to make the container, the height of the container is H5. In an exemplary embodiment, H5 is 5 and ¾ inches, but in some embodiments, H5 may range from 4.5 inches to 7 inches, and in other embodiments the range of H5 may be even wider.

The borders of the body panel 504 are trimmed and thus, the entire perimeter of the body panel 504 is trimmed with the first edge 502a being trimmed by material 510a, the second edge 502b being trimmed by material 510b, the first end edge 508a being trimmed by material 512a and the second end edge 508b being trimmed by material 512b (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the trim is shown as having the width dimension of W1a for side trims 510a and 510b, and the width dimension W5b for the ends 512a and 512b. In an exemplary embodiment, W5a and W5b are ¾ of an inch, however, this measurement can range from zero inches to 1 inch or even more in some embodiments. Further, in some embodiments, the measurements of W5a and W5b may be different from each other.

In some embodiments, the trim is applied to the body panel 504 by folding a material over the edge of the body panel 504 such that a substantially even amount of material is on both faces of the body panel 504, and then stitching through the outside trim, body panel 504 and underside trim as shown with stitching 514a, 514b, 514c and 514d.

It should be appreciated that in one embodiment, the trim can be constructed out of a leather material, however, it will be appreciated that these panels could be constructed of any of a variety of materials including plastics, cloths, woven and non-woven materials, silicon and other flexible materials as well as non-flexible materials such as woods, plastics, metals, composite materials and metal alloys as a few non-limiting examples. Further, in the various embodiments the trim may be transparent, translucent or opaque.

In constructing the container 500, the trimmed panel 504 is folded along a middle line 508c such that the first side edge 502a and the second side edge 502b are folded over themselves and the first and second end edges (508a and 108b) of the body panel 504 are held in proximity to each other. The first and second end edges (508a and 508b) define the perimeter of an opening 518 to provide access into an interior area or void that is defined by the inner surfaces of the body panel 504. In the illustrated embodiment, a zipper 520 is shown as a sealing mechanism for securing the opening 518 into a closed state or allowing the opening to be placed into an open state. However, it should be appreciated that in various embodiments, other techniques such as snaps, buttons, VELCRO or other loop and hook material, tie string, magnets, clasps, and spring or snap strips as a few non-limiting examples may be used to secure the opening or, in other embodiments, the opening may be left open and nothing is used to secure it into a closed position.

It should be appreciated that the illustrated embodiment allows the ease of viewing of any items that are placed within the interior of the container 500, which in the illustrated embodiment can be a handbag or purse. In addition, the container may include one or more rings or connectors, such as two D-rings that can adjoined to the container 500 by looped straps or otherwise. As such, a strap, similar to the strap illustrated in FIG. 3A-3E, can be connected to the D-rings carrying the container 500 over one's shoulder or in the hands.

In the illustrated embodiment, the container 500 is also illustrated as including a cover receptor interface positioned on an outside surface of the container 500 in proximity with and along a length of the perimeter edge of opening 518. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover receptor interface consists of a plurality of snaps 526 that are positioned along the perimeter edge 518 of the opening 520. In the illustrated embodiment, there are three snaps being located on each side of the opening 518, thus three snaps on trip 512a and three snaps on trip 512b. In some embodiments, the cover receptor interface may include in addition to or in lieu of the snaps on the perimeter edge 518, snaps on one or more sides of the first side edge trip 510a and the second side edge grim 510b.

FIG. 5B is a rendering of an embodiment of a container cover that is suitable for use with the envelope container 500 illustrated in FIG. 5A. In the illustrated embodiment, the container cover 550 consist of a single panel 552, which in the illustrated embodiment, is rectangular in shape if it were to be laid out flat. The single panel 552 includes a first side edge 556a and a second side edge 556b that are located on opposing sides of the rectangular shape and are substantially parallel to each other. In addition, the single panel 552 includes a first end 558a and a second end 558b that are also located on opposing sides of the rectangular shape and are substantially parallel to each other and are substantially perpendicular to the first side edge 556a and the second side edge 556b. The first side edge 556a and the second side edge 556b are formed by folding a portion of the edges over and then stitching through the fold with stitching 564a and 564b respectively. Further, the first end edge 558a and the second end edge 558b are also formed by folding the edge under itself and stitching the fold with stitching 564c and 564d. In the illustrated embodiment, the fold for the first end edge 558a and the second end edge 558b has a width of W5c. In an exemplary embodiment W5c is about 1 inch but in other embodiments, W5c may be larger or smaller than 1 inch.

It should also be appreciated that in some embodiments, the cover 552 may simply be a flat material without any folded over edges. For instance, if the cover 552 is constructed of silicone, plastic or other similar materials. Further, in some embodiments, the cover 552 may be one material that is trimmed, similar to the panel 504, on one or more edges by the same or a different material. For instance, the cover 552 may be canvas and be trimmed in leather as a non-limiting example. This also applies to the other embodiments described herein as well as other embodiments not specifically presented herein.

The interior surface 590 of the single panel 552 of the container cover 500 includes a connector interface region 592a and 592b, respectively associated with first end edge 558a and second end edge 558b that house the connector interface. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector interface includes snaps 576 illustrated in connector interface region 592a and three additional snaps in connector interface region 592b (not shown but illustrated by dotted lines).

The length of the single panel 552 extending from the first side edge 556a to the second side edge 556b is L5b. In an exemplary embodiment, L5b is approximately 9 inches, in another embodiment, L5b can range from about 7 to 11 inches. In yet other embodiments, L5b can vary over a wider range. In exemplary embodiments, L5b should approximately be the same as L5a in FIG. 5A but, with the trimming, it is acceptable for L5b to be less than L5a.

In addition, the distance between the first end edge 558a and the second end edge 558b is L5c. L5c should be of sufficient length to allow the connector interface of the container cover 552 to mate with the cover receptor interface 526 of the container 500. In an exemplary embodiment, L5c is 12¾ inches. In other embodiments, L5c may be larger or smaller than 12¾ inches depending on the size of the envelope container 500.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connector interface includes snaps that mate with the snaps located in the cover receptor interface. However, it should be appreciated that rather than snaps, other techniques may be used to secure the container cover 552 to the container 500, including techniques such as buttons, VELCRO or other loop and hook material, tie string, magnets, clasps, collar pins and spring or snap strips as a few non-limiting examples.

It will be appreciated that each of the three specific embodiments presented herein, the barrel container, the bucket container and the envelope container are just non-limiting examples of a few embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the dimensions recited herein are also non-limiting examples. It should also be appreciated that the various embodiments, such as the barrel container, bucket container and/or envelope container can be dimensioned such that the covers are interchangeable between the various containers. As a non-limiting example, the three illustrated containers could be manufactured to match the following measurements:

Barrel Container 100—the length L1 of the barrel container 100 could be 9 inches and the length of cover 200 could be 9 inches by 13⅜ inches (with the 13⅜ inches approximating the circumference around the barrel container 100;

Bucket Container 400—the length L5a of the envelope container 500 could be 9 inches and the length height of the envelope H5 could be the circumference of the bucket container 300 could be 13⅜ inches (or 26 and ¾ inches) and the height H4A could be 9 inches; and

Envelope Container 500—the length L5a of the envelop container 500 could be 9 inches and the height H5 of the envelope container 500 could be 6.5 inches.

Using these measurements, a cover that is 9 inches by 13⅜ inches could be used to cover the barrel container 100, the 13⅜ inch circumference bucket container 400 and the envelope container 500. Likewise, a 26 and ¾ inch circumference bucket container 400 could be configured to be covered with two such covers. In such embodiments, a kit can be sold with multiple containers and multiple covers and the user can mix and match covers and containers to match outfits, moods or needs.

In some embodiments, a pocket is included in or on the container for holding one or more covers. For instance, in the barrel container 100, a pocket may be included in one or both of the side panel 102a and 102b. These pockets may hold one or more covers 200. Thus, the owner can remove the cover and place it within the pocket when going through security. In addition, the owner can carry one or more extra covers to change the look of the bag if so desired. Similarly, the bucket container 400 may include a pocket underneath the bottom of the bucket. Finally, the envelope container 500 may include an interior or exterior pocket on one or more of the panels. It should be appreciated that a pocket can be formed in the transparent panels, such as the envelope container 500, the bucket container 400 and the barrel container 100 for housing one or more covers. In addition, the covers can also be configured to connect back onto themselves so that half of the cover can be disconnected from the container, and then folded over and reconnected to itself to allow security personnel to see into the container. For example, the plurality of snaps 126a-f that are positioned along the perimeter edge of the opening with three snaps being located on each side of the opening 118 may be female portions. Further, snaps 226a-f illustrated in connector interface region 242a-b may be mail portions of the snaps. Even further, the snaps on one interface region 242a or 242b or both may also include male portions of the snaps on the outside surface of the cover 204 while the other interface region 242b or 242a may include female portions of the snaps. This thus facilitates the ability for the cover to be disconnected, folded back over itself and connected to the other side. This feature may also be facilitated with magnets, VELCRO or other means. Although this feature is described in relationship to the barrel style in FIG. 1, it may also be utilized in any of the other embodiments.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a tote cover for a security tote bag. FIG. 6B is a front view of the tote cover of FIG. 6A. Generally, a tote bag is square or rectangular in shape and has two looping handles connected to both sides of the top. As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, a tote cover 600 is used to cover and conceal the contents within a security or game day tote back that is constructed with transparent panels, or any other tote as well. The tote cover includes two apertures 602, one on each side of the cover (only one is visible in the illustration). The tote cover 600 includes a bottom opening 604. The bottom opening 604 may include elastic to help close the bottom opening 604 around the bottom of the tote 650, or the bottom opening 604 may include another mechanism, such as snaps, a zipper, VELCRO or other hook and loop material, magnets, buttons, tie string as a few non-limiting examples. The handles 652 of the tote 650 are inserted up through the bottom opening 604 and through the two apertures 602 and the bottom opening 604 can be cinched to keep the tote 650 inside. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the bottom opening 604 may be replaced by a side opening or even the top opening can be configured to receive the tote 650. For instance, as illustrated, a tote 650 can be folded and slid inside the top opening 606 and then unfolded inside and the handles 652 pulled through the apertures 602. In yet other embodiments, the straps 608 can be detachable on one or more sides to allow a tote 650 to be inserted into the cover 600 while full and without having to fold the tote 650.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a tote cover for a security tote bag. FIG. 7B is a front view of the tote cover of FIG. 7A. In the illustrated embodiment, a single opening is included in the top, whereas the embodiment of FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B included three openings. As illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, a tote cover 700 is used to cover and conceal the contents within a security or game day tote bag that is constructed with transparent panels, or any other tote as well. The tote cover includes two apertures 702, one on each side of the cover (only one is visible in the illustration). The tote cover 700 includes a bottom opening 704. The bottom opening 704 may include elastic to help close the bottom opening 704 around the bottom of the tote 750, or the bottom opening 704 may include another mechanism, such as snaps, a zipper, VELCRO or other hook and loop material, magnets, buttons, tie string as a few non-limiting examples. The handles 752 of the tote 750 are inserted up through the bottom opening 704 and through the two apertures 702 and the bottom opening 704 can be cinched to keep the tote 750 inside. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the bottom opening 704 may be replaced by a side opening or even the top opening can be configured to receive the tote 750. For instance, as illustrated, a tote 750 can be folded and slid inside the top opening 706 and then unfolded inside and the handles 752 pulled through the apertures 702. In yet other embodiments, the straps 708 can be detachable on one or more sides to allow a tote 750 to be inserted into the cover 700 while full and without having to fold the tote 750.

FIG. 9A is an embodiment of a security bag including an expansion feature and pockets for receiving a privacy panel. The illustrated security bag 900 includes a front face 902, a rear face 904 a top side 906, a bottom side 908, a left-side 910 and a right side 912. The front face 902 and the rear face 904 include a transparent window that may exist over the full face or maybe a window with a border of various sizes. The size of the transparent window should be sufficient enough to allow the contents of the security bag 900 to be easily seen and viewed from the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the transparent window 914 covers the majority of the front face 902, and another transparent window 916 covers the majority of the rear face 904. Both of the transparent windows 914 and 916 are surrounded by a border 918 and 920 respectively.

In some embodiments, a series of fasteners or a fastening mechanism can be included around the border 918 and 920. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening mechanism includes a plurality of snaps but it will be appreciated that other fastening mechanisms may be used, such as buttons, VELCRO, magnets, etc. The illustrated embodiment also includes a pocket 924. In the various embodiments, the pocket 924 can be included on the front face 902 and/or the rear face 904. The pocket opening 926 is illustrated as providing access to the interior of the pocket 924 from the outside of the security bag 900. Thus, the pocket 924 can be used for additional storage but, in preferred embodiments, the pocket is used to hold a privacy panel as is described herein below. However, first the expansion feature of the present embodiment is described.

In FIG. 9A, a zipper seam 940 is illustrated as running across or traversing across the top side 906, the left-side 910, the bottom side 908, and the right side 912 at some point between and substantially parallel to the planes defined by the front face 902 and rear face 904. On the top side 906, two zipper assemblies 942a and 942b are illustrated. Each zipper assembly includes a slider or car and a pull. The zipper seam 940 includes interlocking teeth or some other zipper structure such as a plastic rail. In operation, a user can clasp the zipper handles 942a and 942b and pull them in opposite directions around the perimeter of the security bag. Once the zipper handles 942a and 942b have traversed the zipper seam 940 to meet each other on the bottom side 908, an expansion panel is revealed.

FIG. 9B is an embodiment of a security bag including an expansion feature and pockets for receiving a privacy panel illustrated in the expanded mode. As illustrated, the zipper handles 942a and 942b are in a position such that the zipper seam 940 is fully open and the expansion panel 950 is fully revealed. It should be appreciated that the expansion panel 950 may also be constructed similar to the front face 902 and rear face 904 such that ends or sides of the expansion panel may be constructed as a pocket. Thus, once the bag is moved into an expanded position, the panels can be slid into the pockets similar to the front face 902 and back face 904 such that privacy is maintained. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the expansion panel 950 may be opaque to provide privacy.

It should also be appreciated that in some embodiments, the front face 902, rear face 904 and/or the expansion panel 950 may include a zipper around the periphery such that an opaque panel may be zipped onto the translucent panel to provide privacy and then removed when entering into a venue that requires inspection. The zipper cover panels may be connected around the entire periphery of the transparent panels or may be connected on 3 sides by a zipper and one side by a permanent connection such as sewing, adhesive etc. As such, the three sides of the zipper cover panel may be unzipped thereby allowing the zipper cover panel to be lifted to view inside the bag 900 (i.e. bottom is permanently connected) or the zipper cover panels can be lifted to view inside (i.e., top is permanently connected). Similarly one of the sides of the ziper cover panels may be connected to the bag in a permanent manner.

FIG. 10A is an illustration of the bag of FIG. 9A showing the use of a panel being inserted into the pocked of the front face. The bag 900 is shown as receiving panel 1002a into the pocket 924 through opening 926. It will be appreciated that a variety of panels may be utilized with different colors, designs, textures, etc. FIG. 10B illustrates a variety of privacy panels that may be utilized in various embodiments of the security bag. As a non-limiting examples, designer panels identifying merchants can be utilized such as 1002b and 1002c, a sports team panel such as panes 1002a and 1002d, a blank panel such as 1002e, a high-end designer such as 1002f, a retail store such as 1002g, or various designs such as 1002h and 1002i. The panels may be constructed of a variety of materials including card board, plastic, corrugated plastic or paper, vinyl, silicone, aluminum, cloth, stiffened cloth, as a few nonlimiting examples.

FIG. 11A is an illustration of the bag of FIG. 9A, or a variant of the bag showing the use of a panel being attached to or placed upon the front face. The bag 1100 is shown as receiving panel 1102a onto the surface area of the front face 1122. It should be appreciated that bag 1100 may be constructed similar to bag 900 of FIG. 9A including a pocket but, in the illustrated embodiment, the security covers are applied to the exterior of the front or rear faces of the bag 1100 or 900 rather than being inserted into the pocket (i.e. bag 900 of FIG. 9A). It will be appreciated that a variety of panels may be utilized with different colors, designs, textures, etc. FIG. 11B illustrates a variety of privacy panels that may be utilized in various embodiments of the security bag. As a non-limiting examples, designer panels identifying merchants can be utilized such as 1102b and 1102c, a sports team panel such as panes 1102a and 1102d, a blank panel such as 1102e, a high-end designer such as 1102f, a retail store such as 1102g, or various designs such as 1102h and 1102i. In the embodiment, the panels are applied to the surface of transparent panels, either on the inside or outside. A variety of techniques can be utilized to accomplish this. A few non-limiting examples of such techniques include the use of vinyl clings, static clings and removable decals. Clear clings or partially opaque clings can be made of 8 mil thick clear glossy material with a paper backer that can be peeled off prior to application. White clings are made of 8 mil thick white opaque glossy material with the same paper backer that can be peeled off prior to application. Both are suitable for indoor or outdoor use. It should be appreciated that the material may also be thicker or thinner than 8 mil.

FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram of a decorative cling that is suitable for embodiments of the present invention or for other decorating. The illustrated panel 1200 is shown as including two rows of fringe 1202 and 1204, one in front of the other thus creating a cover overlapping fringe to provide privacy. At least a portion of the decorative cling 1200 is constructed from the above-described vinyl cling or static cling material. For instance, at least the portion 1206, either on the front side, back side or both should be constructed from the above-described vinyl cling or static cling material. However, in should be appreciated that the entire decorate cover 1200 may be constructed from the above-described vinyl cling or static cling material.

FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the decorative cling from FIG. 12 in use on a bag. In the illustrated embodiment, bag 1220 is shown with a decorative panel 1200 attached to the exterior surface, thus providing privacy by concealing the contents within the bag. During a security check, the decorative panel 1200 can be easily removed and held or stored inside the bag 1220.

FIG. 14 illustrates another use for the decorative cling from FIG. 12 or a variation thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, a rectangular or square table 1420 is illustrated with broken lines as include a top and legs. A cling 1400 is illustrated as being attached to the edge of the table 1420 and thus providing a decorative skirt for the table. Such embodiments may be utilized in trade shows, events (i.e. birthdays, weddings, etc.) or in a wide variety of other uses. The decorative cling 1400 may include a variety of designs on the surface reflective of the type of use, such as HAPPY BIRTHDAY messages with balloons, wedding decorations, Christmas decorations, etc.

FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a decorative cling. In the illustrated example, a round or oval tall table 1520 is illustrated with a decorative cling 1500 attached to the edge of the table.

In the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, the decorative cling may extend around the full perimeter of the table or just a portion. In addition, the decorative clings can be attached to a table edge that is constructed to be compatible with receiving a cling. In other embodiments, a tape or strip that is compatible with receiving a cling may be attached to the edge of the table. For instance, a tape with adhesive on one side and a surface suitable for receiving a cling can be adhered to the edge of any table.

FIG. 16 illustrates an alternate conceptual use for the decorative clings. In the illustrated embodiment a wall 1604 is illustrated as including a door or doorway 1606 and a window 1608. A decorative cling 1600 is illustrated as covering the doorway 1606 to provide decoration and/or privacy and a decorative cling 1602 is illustrated as covering the window 1608 to provide decoration and/or privacy. It should be appreciated that the decorative cling can be attached to a wide variety of surface for different uses, such as decorating a wall, hanging from a beam, etc. In each of the embodiments, the surface may be fabricated from a material suitable for receiving a cling or, a material can be attached to the surface as described above. Thus, a wide variety of applications are anticipated with such embodiments. For example, a cling can be utilized to cover confidential information on a chalk board or marker board.

In any of the described embodiments, a whistle is optionally attached to the side, a ring or a zipper of the security bag to identify a branding of the bag as well as to provide an alerting mechanism in an emergency situation. The whistle gives easy access to the owner to draw attention if the owner believes that he or she may be at risk or in danger.

In the description and claims of the present application, each of the verbs, “comprise”, “include” and “have”, and conjugates thereof, are used to indicate that the object or objects of the verb are not necessarily a complete listing of members, components, elements, or parts of the subject or subjects of the verb.

The present invention has been described using detailed descriptions of embodiments thereof that are provided by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The described embodiments comprise different features, not all of which are required in all embodiments of the invention. Some embodiments of the present invention utilize only some of the features or possible combinations of the features. Variations of embodiments of the present invention that are described and embodiments of the present invention comprising different combinations of features noted in the described embodiments will occur to persons of the art.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described herein above. Rather the scope of the invention is defined by the claims that follow.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising:

a container comprising: at least one panel constructed of a transparent material and including a plurality of borders; each border of the plurality of borders of the at least one transparent material panel being trimmed with an opaque material; the at least one transparent material panel and the opaque material trim being adjoined, optionally with other panels of transparent material and/or opaque material, to define a void within the interior of the container; the container including a perimeter edge defining a main opening for providing access to the void; and a cover receptor interface; and

a container cover comprising: a panel constructed from a substantially opaque material; and wherein the panel has dimensions that ensure that the at least one transparent material panel is covered when the container cover is adjoined to the cover receptor interface of the container.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one transparent material panel is limited to a single transparent material panel.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the perimeter edge includes a first side and a second side and the container further comprising:

a sealing structure that includes a first element located on the first side of the perimeter edge and a second element located on the second side of the perimeter edge with the first element including a mechanism to be detachably secured to the second element thereby allowing the main opening to transition between a closed state when attached and an open state when detached.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the cover receptor interface is a pocket consisting of two transparent material panels positioned over each other such that the pocket is accessible from the outside of the container and configured to receive the container cover within the interior of the pocket.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the cover receptor interface is a pocket consisting of two transparent material panels positioned over each other such that the pocket is accessible from the inside of the container and configured to receive the container cover within the interior of the pocket.

6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the cover receptor interface is configured to receive the container cover and the container cover is a static cling.

7. An apparatus comprising:

a container comprising: a plurality of panels constructed of a transparent material; the plurality of panels being adjoined together, optionally with other panels of opaque material, to define a void within the interior of the container; the container including a perimeter edge defining a main opening for providing access to the void; and a plurality of cover receptor interfaces; and

a plurality of container covers with each container cover comprising: a panel constructed from a substantially opaque material; and wherein the panel has dimensions that ensure that when adjoined to a transparent material of the plurality of transparent panels, that the transparent panel is covered, whereby the contents of the container cannot be viewed from the outside when the plurality of container covers are attached and the contents of the container can be viewed from the outside for inspection when the plurality of container covers are removed.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the perimeter edge includes a first side and a second side and the container further comprising:

a sealing structure that includes a first element located on the first side of the perimeter edge and a second element located on the second side of the perimeter edge with the first element including a mechanism to be detachably secured to the second element thereby allowing the main opening to transition between a closed state when attached and an open state when detached.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the plurality of cover receptor interfaces are pockets consisting of two transparent material panels positioned over each other such that the pockets are accessible from the outside of the container and each pocket is configured to receive one of the plurality of container covers within the interior of the pocket.

10. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the plurality of cover receptor interfaces are pockets consisting of two transparent material panels positioned over each other such that the pockets are accessible from the inside of the container and each pocket is configured to receive one of the plurality of container covers within the interior of the pocket.

11. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the plurality of cover receptor interfaces are configured to receive the plurality of container covers and the plurality of container covers are static cling material.

12. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the plurality of container covers are decorative.

13. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the plurality of cover receptor interfaces are one or more of the configurations of cover receptor interfaces selected from the group of: (a) a pocket consisting of two transparent material panels positioned over each other such that the pocket is accessible from the outside of the container and configured to receive one of the plurality of container covers within the interior of the pocket; (b) a pocket consisting of two transparent material panels positioned over each other such that the pocket is accessible from the inside of the container and configured to receive one of the plurality of container covers within the interior of the pocket; and (c) a single transparent panel configured to receive a container cover that is a static cling material.