Secured By Flaccid Member Patents (Class 224/148.5)
  • Patent number: 10709184
    Abstract: A hydration scarf is provided to contain a beverage, and to be worn around the neck so as to make consumption of the beverage very convenient. The hydration scarf can be disposable, and can be sold pre-filled. The hydration scarf can have an included drinking straw assembly, or can have a fluid port for receiving a re-usable drinking straw assembly. The hydration scarf includes a U-shaped container portion including: a first hanging portion, a curved portion, a second hanging portion, and a fluid port. The drinking straw assembly includes: a drinking straw, and a port connector for removably connecting the second end of the straw to the fluid port. Also included is an internal tube assembly including: a first uptake tube, a second uptake tube, and a three-way connector in fluid communication with the fluid port, and directly connected to the first uptake tube and the second uptake tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Inventor: Jodi Moore
  • Patent number: 10299575
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding a beverage container while a user is engaging in one of walking, running, and sporting activities, such apparatus comprises a holder member having a predetermined shape, a predetermined size and formed of a predetermined material and a means secured to such holder member for attaching the holder member to a persons waist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Inventor: Vanessa Andrews
  • Patent number: 9861171
    Abstract: The water bottle and cell phone holder is a carried item of luggage. The water bottle and cell phone holder is a receptacle that stores a water bottle and a personal data device. The water bottle and cell phone holder is provisioned with a strap that allows the water bottle and cell phone holder to be carried by hand or hung from a shoulder. The water bottle and cell phone holder comprises a tube, a pocket, and a shoulder strap. The tube, pocket, and shoulder strap are attached in such a manner that a loop is formed. The loop allows the water bottle and cell phone holder to be either hand carried or hung from the shoulder. The tube stores the water bottle. The pocket stores the personal data device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Inventor: Lorita Burnside
  • Patent number: 9795224
    Abstract: A frameless furniture assembly adapted to be converted between an unfilled configuration and a filled configuration including: an outer liner having an inner surface and an outer surface; a plurality of pieces of fill material, wherein the fill material is retained withi n the outer liner; and a container holder associated with the outer liner. The frameless furniture assembly is preferably adapted to support a human in a seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: Comfort Research, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel C. George, II, Matthew Jung
  • Patent number: 9676486
    Abstract: A harness container for a parachutist has a bio-contoured support cradle or load distributing vest. The load distributing vest, which is generally U-shaped and includes an upper yoke and two straps integral with the yoke, has a multi-layer construction that includes an outer layer and an inner layer mounted on a bio-contoured pad. The outer layer and the inner layer are of corresponding shape and are sewn to one another along a reinforced edging with the pad therebetween. The upper yoke is attached to the front side of the harness container and the ends of the vest straps are attached to the main lift webs so that the vest elevates the harness container and distributes the load thereof across the jumper's shoulders, back and chest for increased comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBORNE SYSTEMS NORTH AMERICA OF NJ, INC.
    Inventor: Randolph Lee Copenhaver
  • Patent number: 9585462
    Abstract: A device for carrying an object, comprising first and second shoulder straps, first and second chest straps to be fitted around the lower chest of a person, and a back portion connecting a first end of the shoulder straps with a first end of the chest straps. Second ends of the shoulder straps are connected to the chest straps, and second ends of the chest straps are detachably connectable to each other by means of a buckle. Lengths of the chest straps are adjustable. Each of the chest straps comprises at least an elastic section, said elastic section being elastically extendable in a longitudinal direction of the chest straps. Disclosed is also a backpack comprising such a device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: USWE SPORTS AB
    Inventors: Karl-Johan Engdahl, Jörgen Gustafsson
  • Patent number: 9456679
    Abstract: A bottle and accessories carrier generally includes a bottle carrier with preferable accessory storage. One version includes a holster portion for retaining at least one bottle or container; straps or other means attaching the holster portion onto a user's body or other article; a preferably flattened bottle; and an accessory storage area for carrying items. A strategically placed spacer or padding layer improves breathability and reduces bounce, providing a more comfortable carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: Amphipod, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith S. Willows, June A. Angus, Antonio Del Rosario
  • Patent number: 9398813
    Abstract: A frameless furniture assembly adapted to be converted between an unfilled configuration and a filled configuration including: an outer liner having an inner surface and an outer surface; a plurality of pieces of fill material, wherein the fill material is retained within the outer liner; and a container holder associated with the outer liner. The frameless furniture assembly is preferably adapted to support a human in a seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Inventors: Daniel C. George, II, Matthew Jung
  • Patent number: 9307854
    Abstract: A reconfigurable article holder comprises a sleeve defining a cavity and having an inner surface and an outer surface. The cavity receives and supports a container in a first container supporting configuration, wherein the inner surface of the sleeve contacts the container. The sleeve includes first and second fastener portions which are mateable to form a container-surrounding opening operable to receive and support a beverage container in a second container supporting position, wherein the outer surface of the sleeve contacts the beverage container. A strap having sufficient strength to support the weight of a beverage container attaches to the sleeve at least one opening. The first fastening portion may be disposed on the inner surface of the sleeve, while the second fastening portion may be disposed on the outer surface of the sleeve. The first and second fastening portions may be further mateable to form a storage configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Inventor: Maggie Myers
  • Patent number: 9295320
    Abstract: A collapsible beverage container support apparatus including a back panel, a base pivotally connected to the back panel, a clip mechanism for securing the support apparatus to a user's belt or other clothing item, a beverage support bracket for engaging the side walls of a beverage container, and a support arrangement for transferring a portion of the weight of the beverage container away from the base panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventor: Robert C. McManus
  • Publication number: 20150090747
    Abstract: A hand-held vessel has a bottom wall, a sidewall and a supportive strap attached to the bottom wall and the sidewall. The bottom wall and sidewall have an inner and outer surface. The sidewall extends from the bottom wall, whereby the inner surfaces of the bottom wall and sidewall define a cavity for holding fluids or loose materials therein. The strap has a first end and a second end, whereby the first end is fixedly attached to the sidewall and the second end is selectively secured to the bottom wall. The strap is adaptable to accept a user's hand disposed between the strap and the outer surface of the sidewall. The strap urges the hand against the outer surface of the sidewall to secure the vessel to the hand and stabilize the vessel with respect to movement relative to the hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Mark W. Bergman, Matthew V. Leyden, Jeffrey B. Waffensmith
  • Publication number: 20150048126
    Abstract: The ladder lock allows the strap to be adjusted to the users length, allowing the user to place the bottle at a position comfortable to them. The strap is generally worn over the shoulder and across the body. The split metal rings allow the user to select the neoprene O-ring that fits the beverage bottle of their choosing. The user may attach the strap to a variety of available metal or plastic beverage containers using the split metal rings only or by attaching mini carabiners, snap link or spring link to the metal O-rings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: Richard Allen Cobb
  • Patent number: 8915408
    Abstract: A device to assist in the feeding of an infant from a bottle comprising a shoulder support pad shaped like a figure eight comprised of a washable material including a nonskid on the underside having ridges and valleys. A baby bottle holder is rotatably attached near one end of said shoulder support band. The caregiver can hold and support an infant in one arm and hand greatly reducing the effort required to feed an infant milk from a baby bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Martin Richard Hill
  • Publication number: 20140076940
    Abstract: This application describes a hydration pack suitable for use while engaging in a prolonged physical activity such as running. The hydration pack is configured to be worn on the upper leg of a user and includes an adjustable-height hydration vessel receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: Joshua Clay Sprague, Elizabeth Sprague
  • Patent number: 8500076
    Abstract: A cup holder fastening structure includes a cup body, a fastening means hinged on the cup body and a pivotal unit. The cup body has a first coupling portion extended therefrom. The fastening means includes a strap containing a latch teeth section and a holder. The strap is fastened to an upper end of the holder. The holder has a slot to be threaded through by the strap and a second coupling portion extended from one side to mate the first coupling portion. The pivotal unit is hinged between the first and second coupling portions to adjust the angle of the cup body. Through the strap the invention can be strapped on any type of vehicle bars and installed and removed easily. Through the pivotal unit the cup body can be adjusted to a desired use angle to provide greater usability and practicality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Chin-I Lai
  • Patent number: 8484807
    Abstract: A necklace with plastic hand having a fresh scent compartment includes a 36 inch nylon lanyard necklace made to go around the user's neck; plus a refillable new plastic hand device with two circular plastic hang tabs assembled together and attached onto the palm area. The new plastic hand device is for storing a fresh scent liquid-gel hand sanitizer inside, so now any user of a new liquid-gel hand sanitizer has an easier way to try to keep their own personal hands cleaner and well sanitized from today's germs and viruses. Finally, the new nylon lanyard necklace w/swivel hook is fastened onto of the circular plastic hang tab assembly on the new plastic hand device to form a new compartment. In addition, the new plastic hand device has a screw on 15 mm snap-top cap with valve for releasing the liquid-gel hand sanitizer from the new plastic hand device into a user's hands for sanitizing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Claude Malloy
  • Publication number: 20130126563
    Abstract: The present invention is a baby bottle holding apparatus and a method of use thereof which allow the wearer to conveniently bottle-feed a baby in closeness and comfort similarly found in breastfeeding. Particularly, the present invention allows the wearer to utilize only one hand in bottle-feeding the baby while utilizing the free hand to perform other manual tasks. The apparatus is to be worn around the thorax with the baby bottle pouch positioned centrally upon the chest of the wearer. With the bottle pouch positioned upon the chest, the user may insert a baby bottle into the pouch with the bottle nipple shown and visible to the baby. The bottle is secured to the pouch via a drawstring or an elastic band. The strap of the apparatus is adjustable in length. Beside the bottle, the baby may also play with a toy attached to the strap via a string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Angel Clark Henry
  • Publication number: 20120160884
    Abstract: A bottle carrier for permitting an individual to carry a bottle of fluid. A bottle of fluid is placed within a mesh bag. The mesh bag has a plurality of holes. A drawstring is weaved through the plurality of holes of the mesh bag. Loops are formed into the drawstring. An individual can carry the bottle of fluid by inserting his fingers into the loop and lifting the bottle of fluid upward. In a preferred embodiment, a decorative clothing cover is inserted over the bottle of fluid so that the loops are still accessible to the individual. In a preferred embodiment, the bottle of fluid is a wine bottle filled with wine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: Steven E. Levine, Michael C. Grossman
  • Patent number: 8082753
    Abstract: Provided in one embodiment is a decorative beaded necklace for ornamental decoration, comprising a plurality of decorative compartments, each of the compartments being fluidly connected to each other; a tube, the tube being fluidly connected to at least one of the plurality of compartments; and a fluid inlet, the fluid inlet allowing fluid to be added to the plurality of compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventors: Patrick D. Alvarez, Jr., Joel A Salvador, John Scott Phares
  • Publication number: 20110290830
    Abstract: A fluid container carrying device including a back piece and a front piece forming a pocket having an opening for receiving and holding a fluid container, wherein the fluid container carrying device further including a first strap provided with a first fastener for fastening to a first side portion of a neck protection device, a second strap provided with a second fastener for fastening to a second side portion of the neck protection device, and a fastening means arranged on the back piece of the pocket for fastening to a rear lower member of the neck protection device. The present invention also relates to a neck protection device provided with such a fluid container carrying device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: USWE INTERNATIONAL AB
    Inventor: Karl-Johan Engdahl
  • Patent number: 8002157
    Abstract: A waist pack includes a sleeve for removably retaining a bottle or other container. In accordance with various preferred aspects of the invention, the pack includes a sleeve configured to securely retain the bottle while at the same time allowing for convenient removal and replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: Keith S. Willows, Antonio Del Rosario, June Angus
  • Patent number: 7997511
    Abstract: This invention is related to a portable texture-spraying apparatus for uniformly dispersing a viscous material. This apparatus broadly includes a tank assembly having a body with an inner wall that defines a sealed cavity, and a piston assembly slidably disposed within the sealed cavity. The piston assembly divides the sealed cavity into an air-side chamber and a material-side chamber by providing an airtight seal therebetween. Additionally an air-control assembly is provided that broadly includes a pressure-control mechanism configured for receiving compressed air and routing a controlled pneumatic pressure to a directional valve configured for adjusting between a dispensing mode and a loading mode. In dispensing mode, the directional valve routes the controlled pneumatic pressure to the air-side chamber biasing the piston assembly toward the material-side chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Marshalltown Company
    Inventors: John Reynolds, Troy Thurber
  • Patent number: 7568673
    Abstract: A suspender for a fluid reservoir having a drinking tube includes a grip structurally coupled to a hanger. The grip is oriented to hold the drinking tube and the hanger configured to support a weight of the reservoir. The reservoir includes flexible walls forming a compartment for holding a liquid. An expander for the reservoir includes a body insertable inside the compartment through an opening defined by a collar of a fill port. Formed on the body are a first collar engaging surface and a second collar engaging surface. The collar engaging surface are separated by a distance substantially equal to a width of the opening. An expansion member, integral to the body, is oriented to maintain at least a partial separation between the flexible walls when the body is inserted inside the compartment and the first and second collar engaging surfaces are engaging the collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: John Evingson
  • Patent number: 7552734
    Abstract: Wearable Drinking Garment is a series of inner skeletal tubes lined together and attached to form an X that straps flat around the chest, back and under arm area, with sipping tube at top end and airflow stub tube at bottom end; covered and protected by inner insulated lining to lock in temperature of water/liquid in extreme weather conditions; outer mesh lining for heavy resistance against rough and extreme activities. These three together form the X-shape Vest that locks onto the body, can go under or over clothing, is hands free and lightweight with water flowing through a series of flat tubes, giving an evenly balanced comfortable glove-tight fit to the body, with easy slip on/off convenience. Compete at higher levels while never stopping to get a drink. Second generation has oxygen tubes, mini tank for better breathing, ie: medical purposes, diving, space travel, short/long term mining and more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Shawn Maurice Adams
  • Patent number: 7520412
    Abstract: A waist pack includes a sleeve for removably retaining a bottle or other container. In accordance with various preferred aspects of the invention, the pack includes a sleeve configured to securely retain the bottle while at the same time allowing for convenient removal and replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Amphipod, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith S. Willows, June A. Angus, Antonio Del Rosario
  • Publication number: 20080179349
    Abstract: A user-borne athletic pack having an easy to access water/liquid bladder through a rear entry back-flap is presented. A construction of the athletic pack allows for a separate rear compartment containing the bladder to be accessed by unfastening of a back-flap. The rear compartment is separated from the front compartment via material integrally connected on the inside of the athletic pack. The rear access back-flap and rear compartment allows for unhindered access, storage and control of the water bladder in either its full or empty state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Bryce Thatcher
  • Patent number: 7398891
    Abstract: A cover structure for a water bag inlet comprises: a base, a locking for mounting at the outer periphery of the base, and a cover for mounting on the base. An extension and a locking rim are respectively provided at two ends of the base. A groove is formed at the periphery of the base and is provided with locking blocks at an appropriate position. The locking ring is provided with locking sockets for combining with the locking blocks, and an opening at a pre-determined position of the inner rim of the locking ring, while a fastener is provided at respective ends and can be mounted with a cap, which has a switch at one end surface. Accordingly, the cover can be firmly combined with the base or freely detached to alter its assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Shih-Sheng Yang
  • Publication number: 20080047986
    Abstract: An insulated beverage holster includes an insulated beverage container holder, a holster back, and a fastener. The holster can be releasably fastened to a support object, such as a belt of a user, in a manner preventing the beverage from spilling, while providing the user with a convenient portable storage location, freeing the user's hands for other activities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Applicant: WILL GEAR, LLC
    Inventors: Chris M. Will, Steve Loring, Anthony Joseph Honerkamp
  • Patent number: 7237703
    Abstract: A double entry water bottle carrier (10) for runners includes a base (12) having a belt (14) for securing the base (12) to the runner. A sleeve (20) secured to the base (12) is dimensioned to receive a water bottle (22) and defines a first entry (24) and an opposed second entry (26) at opposed ends of the sleeve (20). A flexible securing strap (32) is secured between opposed interior surfaces of the sleeve (20), and is dimensioned so that a central portion (42) of the strap (32) contacts and secures the bottom surface (44) of the water bottle (32) whether a spout (40) of the water bottle extends out of the first entry (24) or second entry (26) of the sleeve (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Penguin Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Nathan, Robert A. Hartz
  • Patent number: 7191913
    Abstract: A hand-held container for paint and painting implements. The body of the paint container includes an internal reservoir for holding paint and a magnet housed within the body for securing a paint brush or the like within the reservoir. An automatically adjusting, flexible handle that includes a living hinges provides a means for holding a person's hand against the exterior of the body. The paint container also includes a body that is dividable into multiple compartments. A textured surface covers a portion of exterior of the handle and the body and creates a non-slip surface useful for gripping the container. A portion of the container is shaped in a manner that allows the container to function as a pitcher for dispensing fluids such as paint. Stabilizing legs formed on or attached to the front portion of the container allow the container to be also be used as a paint tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: The Wooster Brush Company
    Inventor: James M. Byrne
  • Patent number: 7175059
    Abstract: A hydration device/golf bag carrying harness combination including a golf bag carrying harness including a pair of shoulder-engaging loop straps and a rear connection section from which the pair of shoulder-engaging loop straps extend in a general V-shape from the upper portion of the rear connection section. A hydration device includes a liquid container, a liquid delivery tube and at least two mounting straps extending from and connected to the hydration device. At least two strap engagement clips are mounted on the rear connection section of the golf bag carrying harness generally adjacent the upper portion of the rear connection section to each releasably engage one of the mounting straps. Finally, the liquid delivery tube extends forwards of the golf bag carrying harness such that a wearer of the hydration device may access liquids stored in the liquid container without having to disconnect the container from the harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Copich
  • Patent number: 7070075
    Abstract: Hydration systems with improved fluid reservoirs. An elongate drinking tube extends from the reservoir and includes a distal end upon which a mouthpiece may be mounted. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is a self-sealing mouthpiece. The reservoir includes a fill port, through which drink fluid may be added to the reservoir, and a closure member in the form of a cap for selectively sealing the fill port. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a support member that extends around the fill port, including a handle that projects generally away from the fill port, and is adapted to provide a counter lever to assist in opening and closing of the fill port and/or to position the reservoir for filling. In some embodiments, the hydration system includes a pack into which the reservoir is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: CamelBak Products, LLC
    Inventors: Barley A. Forsman, Robert Miros, Robert Choi
  • Patent number: 7063243
    Abstract: Hydration systems with improved fluid reservoirs. The reservoirs include a fill port with a neck having an opening. The hydration systems further include a closure member, such as a cap, that selectively seals the opening, and an elongate drink tube through which a user may draw drink fluid from the reservoir. The hydration systems further include a wrench assembly that extends around the neck and includes handle that projects generally away from the neck. In some embodiments, the wrench assembly provides a counter lever to assist in the removal or coupling of the cap onto the neck. In some embodiments, the wrench assembly is removably mounted on the fill port, and in some embodiments, the wrench assembly is fixed secured to the fill port. In some embodiments, the wrench assembly is rotatably coupled to the fill port and in other the wrench assembly is non-rotatably coupled to the fill port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: CamelBak Products, LLC
    Inventors: Barley A. Forsman, Robert Miros, Robert Choi
  • Patent number: 7044343
    Abstract: A backpack containing a gravity flow water filtration system. The backpack incorporates a compartment at its top to hold a reservoir of untreated water, and a compartment at the bottom to hold a reservoir for filtered water. A tube and filter connect the two compartments, and a drinking tube and mouthpiece allow the user of the backpack to drink filtered water from the filtered water reservoir. In some embodiments, the bottom compartment is accessible from both ends, and can store other items as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Robert Anue
  • Patent number: 6991829
    Abstract: A hand-held vessel has a bottom wall, a sidewall and a supportive strap attached to the bottom wall and the sidewall. The bottom wall and sidewall have an inner and outer surface. The sidewall extends from the bottom wall, whereby the inner surfaces of the bottom wall and sidewall define a cavity for holding fluids or loose materials therein. The strap has a first end and a second end, whereby the first end is fixedly attached to the sidewall and the second end is selectively secured to the bottom wall. The strap is adaptable to accept a user's hand disposed between the strap and the outer surface of the sidewall. The strap urges the hand against the outer surface of the sidewall to secure the vessel to the hand and stabilize the vessel with respect to movement relative to the hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Bercom International LLC
    Inventor: Mark W. Bergman
  • Patent number: 6971562
    Abstract: An improved bottle, container, or fluid carrying waist pack which is shaped to fit in the lower back area of a person, has a retaining sleeve with an opening on one end to receive a bottle. The bottle retaining sleeve situated horizontally at its length relative to the users upright body incorporates components which communicate at its center with a corresponding mating feature on the center portion of the inserted bottle. An improved bottle or container which includes a multiplicity of contours is inserted into the receiving pack for a range of uses from sitting and walking to running and more rigorous activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventors: Keith Willows, June Angus, Antonio Del Rosario
  • Patent number: 6892915
    Abstract: Packs that have a body-conforming frame assembly. In some embodiments, the frame assembly is adapted to conform in multiple dimensions to the shape of a user's back or other body portion. In some embodiments, the frame assembly's shape is at least substantially defined by the shape of the flexible pack to which the frame assembly is secured. In some embodiments, the pack includes a retainer assembly that secures the frame assembly to the pack, with the retainer assembly optionally defining a compartment that is smaller in at least one dimension than the frame assembly. The frame assembly may be an internal or an external frame assembly and may include ventilation structure. In some embodiments, the pack includes a hydration system, with the pack including a compartment that receives a fluid reservoir, from which a drinking tube extends external the pack to a mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: CamelBak Products, LLC
    Inventor: Vincent C. Mares
  • Patent number: 6837026
    Abstract: A beverage reservoir for a personal hydration device is filled with a beverage, e.g., water, and sealed in a tamper-evident manner. As a result, the reservoir can be sold pre-filled and the user can use the reservoir confident that the beverage contains no mold, fungus, or residue from previously stored and consumed beverage. The reservoir can also include a port for re-filling such that the user can use the reservoir in a conventional manner after consumption of the previously sealed-in beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: David Setton
  • Patent number: 6820780
    Abstract: A hydration system with an improved fluid reservoir. A drinking tube extends from an outlet port of the reservoir and includes a distal end upon which a mouthpiece may be mounted. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a relatively large-diameter fill port. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a closure member with a handle for selectively sealing the input port. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a wrench assembly that enables the user to more easily open and close the input port and/or to position the reservoir for filling. In some embodiments, the hydration system includes a pack into which the reservoir is received, and in some embodiments, the pack includes a hanger assembly adapted to support the reservoir within the pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: CamelBak Products, LLC
    Inventors: Barley A. Forsman, Robert Miros, Robert Choi
  • Publication number: 20040074936
    Abstract: Quick access to the interior of a soft-sided cooler is provided by means of a quick access flap (26) hinged to the top panel (18) of a cooler body (10) and overlying an access opening (30). A tab (36) is made of material of significantly greater flexibility than that of which the flap (26) or the top panel (18) are formed and extends beyond the envelope of the top panel (18) so as to be readily graspable by the user of the cooler without forming a snag point on the cooler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Hugh J. McDonald
  • Publication number: 20040065703
    Abstract: A disposable, hydration pack intended, in a preferred embodiment, for use within a back pack or similar receptacle is disclosed. A gel filled ice pack surrounding the bladder of the pack allows for chilling of the contents of the bladder. In a disposable embodiment, the hydration pack may be pre-packaged with an energy beverage concentrate. A flexible, thin walled, disposable, or semi-flexible straw, passing through the wall of the bladder or through the cap of an access cap, delivers a beverage from the pack to the mouth of a user without the need for bringing the container of the pack to the region of the mouth. In an alternate embodiment, a belt attached to the bladder allows a user to strap the pack around his waist or over his shoulder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Randy A. Bellucci
  • Patent number: 6675998
    Abstract: A hydration system with an improved fluid reservoir. A drinking tube extends from an outlet port of the reservoir and includes a distal end upon which a mouthpiece may be mounted. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a relatively large-diameter fill port. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a closure member with a handle for selectively sealing the input port. In some embodiments, the reservoir includes a wrench assembly that enables the user to more easily open and close the input port and/or to position the reservoir for filling. In some embodiments, the hydration system includes a pack into which the reservoir is received, and in some embodiments, the pack includes a hanger assembly adapted to support the reservoir within the pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: CamelBak Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Barley A. Forsman, Robert Miros, Robert Choi
  • Patent number: 6669064
    Abstract: A bonding nurser that can be used to closely approximate breast feeding mechanically and psychologically comprises a feeding container that simulates a breast in fluid delivery, shape, texture, feel, and ease of infant suckling releasibly attached to a sling so that the container is positioned on the breast area of the adult feeding the baby, and the adult's hands are free for cuddling the baby during feeding. The feeding container is a breast-shaped flexible housing that holds a collapsible bag which delivers milk or other fluids through a nipple protruding through the apex of the housing and is filled through a screw cap opening at the base opposite the apex and secured in the housing by retaining straps surfaced with Velcro™. When the container is assembled, i.e., a bag is positioned in the housing, the straps present a loop interface that mechanically couples the base of the container to a correspondingly sized hook-surfaced area on a shoulder strap (or a hand strap).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Nicholas V. Perricone
  • Patent number: 6666360
    Abstract: An improved hydration system for runners that provides superior motion control and easy dispensing. Fluid is contained within a flexible bladder and pack, and attached to the waist. The pack is constructed of comfortable, elastic, and thermally-insulating fabric. When attached to the waist, tension in the fabric compresses the bladder against the user and dampens motion. Uniform distribution of fluid in the bladder contributes to motion control and is provided by a flexible plastic compression plate and snap elements that pinch the lower portion of the bladder. The snap elements can be disengaged to allow the bladder to be fully expanded for easy cleaning and drying. Fluid is dispensed from a small waist-mounted squeeze bottle that fills automatically from the bladder via fluid coupling elements. Check valves ensure that fluid flows unidirectionally from bladder to bottle to user, and prevent air infiltration into the squeeze bottle and bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Michael W. Swank
  • Patent number: 6598770
    Abstract: A portable liquid container is provided wherein an elongated, flexible container is filled with a beverage through a closable filling orifice, and the container is belted on a user using belt end fasteners, e.g. hook-and-loop material. The user grasps a nozzle on the end of an flexible, extendable straw that is stored and wound within a spring-loaded winder mechanism attached to the surface of the container. Pulling on the nozzle causes the straw to extend sufficiently to reach the user's mouth. When finished, the user allows the straw to be rewound into the winder mechanism. A collecting member with an intake positioned low within the container delivers beverage to a mating member that establishes fluid communication between the collecting member and the straw. A color-coded temperature gauge and liquid level indicator are attached to the container. An isolating member is also provided between the user and the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: Lorita Bolts
  • Publication number: 20030127475
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a thermoinsulating knapsack for carrying beverages, comprising a sack (1) provided with straps (2) for transportation on the back, inside which is arranged a container (3) for a beverage. Said container (3) is provided with an opening into which is inserted a flexible tube (4) which enables the beverage to be sorbed. One or more evacuated panels (5, 6) comprising an envelope which encloses powder of an inert material with average particle size lower than 100 nanometers are arranged between said sack (1) and said container (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Applicant: SAES GETTERS S.p.A.
    Inventor: Paolo Manini
  • Publication number: 20030127478
    Abstract: A bottle or utility holder for the supported transportation of a plastic beverage bottle or utility device by the user or for the support from a stationary member that is easy to manufacture and use, low in cost and is comprised of a o-ring with a pull tab (1), a fastener (2) for attaching the o-ring with pull-tab to a support member e.g. a belt (3a), belt loop (3b), shoulder strap (3d) or belt clip (3c), the o-ring with a pull tab is attached to the support member with a fastener (2) through a hole (6) this assembly allows for the transport of a plastic bottle or utility device by the user, the plastic bottle is adapted by engaging the annular rim flange at the base of the screw cap by stretching the o-ring with the pull tab over around and down the screw cap where it is released and held in place under the rim at the base of the screw cap along side the neck of the bottle, a utility device e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Applicant: M.R.V. MFG.
    Inventor: Mario Ruben Villarreal
  • Publication number: 20030094469
    Abstract: A portable liquid container is provided wherein an elongated, flexible container is filled with a beverage through a closable filling orifice, and the container is belted on a user using belt end fasteners, e.g. hook-and-loop material. The user grasps a nozzle on the end of an flexible, extendable straw that is stored and wound within a spring-loaded winder mechanism attached to the surface of the container. Pulling on the nozzle causes the straw to extend sufficiently to reach the user's mouth. When finished, the user allows the straw to be rewound into the winder mechanism. A collecting member with an intake positioned low within the container delivers beverage to a mating member that establishes fluid communication between the collecting member and the straw. A color-coded temperature gauge and liquid level indicator are attached to the container. An isolating member is also provided between the user and the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: Lorita Bolts
  • Patent number: 6533150
    Abstract: An adjustable carrying pouch adapted to carry devices of varying sizes. A substantially rectangular pliable horizontal segment is integral with a vertical pliable segment. The horizontal segment includes a pair of retention flaps having a central segment disposed therebetween. The vertical segment depends from the central segment. Hook fastening members are secured to the inside surface of the horizontal segment at each retention flap. The hook fastening members are secured to the inside surface of the vertical segment in opposition to the central segment. Loop fastening members are secured to the outside surface of the horizontal segment at each retention flap in opposition to the hook fastening members. A belt loop or clip is mounted along the central segment on the outside surface of the horizontal segment. The hook and loop fastening members may be adjustably coupled to adapt to the size of the device to be carried.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventors: Philip Frederick Margo, Joshua M Ginsberg-Margo
  • Patent number: 6513686
    Abstract: A water-supply pack assembly adapted to hitch onto the driver's seat in an automobile, thereby making it possible for the driver to drink water drawn from the supply without having to interrupt his driving activity The assembly includes a fixture attachable to the headrest of the driver's seat and a water-supply pack mountable on the fixture so that it is then behind the back of the seat. A flexible tube extending from the outlet of the supply and terminating in a valved mouthpiece functions as a straw to permit the driver with the mouthpiece in place to suck water from the supply as he drives the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Amit Ben-Sasson