Abstract: The present invention is directed to improved carrying bags and improved storage compartments for headwear. A carrying bag, and in particular a backpack, includes a rear compartment formed in part from an expandable material for receiving oversized items such as basketballs, soccer balls, footballs and the like. When the oversized objects are removed from the compartment, the expandable material automatically retracts into a position in which it is substantially planar with a rear surface of the carrying bag. In a further aspect of the invention, a detachable headwear storage compartment is provided for both storing and protecting headwear when it is not being worn by the user. The storage compartment is removably attachable to any supporting element, as for example a strap of a carrying bag or backpack, or a belt worn by the user.

Abstract: A pack comprising a pack body, straps, a sleeve attached to the body, and a lumbar sacral support contained in the sleeve and supporting at least a portion of a weight of the pack when secured about a torso of a user and tightened. A frame can be attached to the body having frame members with lower portions and a band around the lower portions. The sleeve can be attached to the band by a pivot pin. The lumbar sacral support can comprise a pair of support body segments, each having an inner end portion and a front end with the front ends detachably connectable to each other; and a mechanical advantage device bridging together the inner end portions to form a belt. The mechanical advantage device include a cable rove around two banks of pulleys which are attached to the front end portions of the support body segments.

Abstract: A backpack (10) suitable for use with wheels (200) at its base adjacent to a non body-contact side (40) has a U-shaped opening (22) proximate to a body-contact side (30) that is closed with a zipper (31). The body-contact side (30) is provided with two shoulder straps (34) and a hip belt (36). Side straps (130) and a top flap or strap (134) connect the body-contact side (30) to other parts of the backpack (10), such as the non body-contact side (40), to take a substantial part of the weight of the backpack (10) and its contents so that the zipper (31) is not stressed or tensioned when the backpack (10) is worn on the back of a user. The wheels (200) are removable and can be larger than is usual for use on rough ground. A frame (100) with a built-in extending handle system (120) is mounted inside and ajacent to the non body-contact side (40).

Abstract: A structure is designed to carry a golf bag on the back of a caddie. The structure includes a first shoulder strap, a second shoulder strap, a ratchet buckle, an upper buckle, and a lower buckle. The first shoulder strap and the second shoulder strap are superimposed in the ratchet buckle such that one end of the first shoulder strap is held by the upper buckle which is fastened to the golf bag, and such that one end of the second shoulder strap is held by the lower buckle which is fastened to the golf bag.

Abstract: A portable container in the form of a knapsack having a soft-sided wall structure, a bottom portion and an upwardly extending wall adjoining the bottom portion. The bottom portion and the upwardly extending wall co-operate to define a chamber therewithin. Strapping is mounted to the front portion to permit the knapsack to be carried on a person's back. A receptacle is mounted to the upwardly extending wall and extends at least partially inwardly of the upwardly extending wall relative to the chamber. The receptacle has an insulated wall member and an externally accessible closure member permitting access to objects in the receptacle.

Abstract: An academic carrying apparatus for use in transporting a variety of items over the shoulders with the carrier resting along the user's back. The carrying apparatus has a body portion that defines a storage compartment. The body portion is comprised of a plurality of panels. A lid is coupled to the rear panel and adjacent to an upper peripheral edge of the body portion. The lid has a pair of top latches for coupling with the front panel of the body portion for securing the lid. The rear panel has a pair of strap holders. Finally, the pair of side panels defines a right side panel and a left side panel, with each side panel having a utility portion.

Abstract: A backpack that includes reflective fabric that is incorporated into the outer shell of the backpack. When viewed during daylight, the reflective fabric does not appear to be reflective, but instead has the look and feel of conventional backpack fabric. However, when a light is pointed at the backpack when it is dark, the reflective fabric reflects the light. In this manner, use of reflective fabric in a backpack permits the backpack to have reflective safety features, yet the backpack is attractive during the day. The backpack may also include lightning-weave fabric and meteor-weave fabric.

Abstract: An improved backpack assembly is provided. The backpack assembly includes a selectively accessible bag interior, and is defined by top, front, side, back and bottom panels, as is well known in the art. The backpack assembly also includes a pair of shoulder straps each having one end attached to the back panel of the bag at a location adjacent to the top panel, and a second end attached to the bag at a location adjacent to the bottom panel. A loop element is provided along each should strap for enabling said straps to be fixed in a doubled back folded over condition.

Abstract: A dual strap apparatus is disclosed for use with a golf bag of the type having a generally tubular body with an open top end and a closed bottom end. The dual strap apparatus includes a V-shaped shoulder strap having first and second portions that extend in opposed directions from a vertex. A first coupling strap is connected between the strap first portion and the body top end, and a second coupling strap is connected between the strap second portion and a location on the body intermediate the top and bottom ends of the body. In one embodiment of the dual strap apparatus, first and second hold-down straps are coupled to a common point on the vertex of the shoulder strap. The first hold-down strap is connected to the body top end, and the second hold-down strap is connected to the body at another location intermediate the body top and bottom ends. In another embodiment of the dual strap apparatus, a single hold-down strap is coupled to a point on the vertex of the shoulder strap.

Abstract: A strap connector for connecting the shoulder straps of a dual-strap carrying system which is particularly useful for carrying golf bags or other elongate bags including pivotally connected lateral members each of which is connected as an intermediate member of a shoulder strap. The pivotal connection between the lateral members adjusts the weight distribution on the shoulders of a person carrying the bag and provides improved comfortability. Also disclosed are a strap carrying system and a golf bag including the strap connector.

Abstract: A portable, organized carrier for holding a variety of odd-sized goods includes two sets of layered, co-nesting, pocket-mounting flaps foldable around a comparted core area. The folded flaps are capped and clamped together by a pair of shell-like covers mounted at opposite longitudinal ends of the carrier. Shoulder and waist straps as well as a handle allow for use of the carrier as a backpack or a tote bag.

Abstract: The present invention provides a panel for use in an article carrier which has opposed sides which are generally connected by a material which include some form of a closure device. The panel is semirigid with interior and exterior faces. The interior face defines a chamber which opens to the interior of the article carrier and the exterior face defines a three dimensional structure. A method for forming the semirigid panel is also disclosed. The disclosed method provides a means for applying color to the three dimensional structure.

Abstract: A Scooter Bag includes a bag designed for use with modern scooters that are foldable between a use configuration and a storage configuration. Specifically, the Scooter Bag of the present invention includes a bag having a chamber sized to receive a scooter in its storage configuration, and that is wearable as a backpack while containing the scooter. The Scooter Bag is convertable to a second, folded configuration also wearable as a backpack, but smaller in size for wearing during operation of the scooter. In this manner, the Scooter Bag provides a storage solution for scooter riders while they are not riding the scooter, but is also portable such that the bag can be worn while riding the scooter, and may include traditional backpack pouches and accessories.

Abstract: A golf bag combination having separated and angled receptacles connected by a pocketed netting, a pair of integrated back pack straps, a storable large poncho-like rain cover, and integrated retractable tripod legs for standing the golf bag.

Abstract: A backpack constructed of two lightweight pieces of pliable material allowing said backpack to be easily stocked and sealed The single piece of pliable material comprising a top flap, a bottom flap, two side flaps and a support section The backpack is formed by attaching the two side flaps over the bottom flap which is closed first, the top flap is then folded over the two attached side flaps which along with the support section create a backpack type device. One or more shoulder straps are used to carry the backpack. The support section becomes the portion of the backpack that rests against the user's back while being used. The backpack is filled with essential survival items and the versatility of the backpack allows it to be used as an emergency stretcher when fully opened, emptied of survival items and fitted with stretcher poles.

Abstract: A strap connector for connecting the shoulder straps of a dual-strap carrying system which is particularly useful for carrying golf bags or other elongate bags including pivotally connected lateral members each of which is connected as an intermediate member of a shoulder strap. The pivotal connection between the lateral members adjusts the weight distribution on the shoulders of a person carrying the bag and provides improved comfortability. Also disclosed are a strap carrying system and a golf bag including the strap connector.

Abstract: A backpack is provided having a rigid back support plate, a rigid bottom support, and a continuous, flexible sidewall extending outward and forming an internal storage volume specifically sized to receive and retain a conventionally available, foldable two-wheeled scooter. A pair of shoulder straps affixed to the back support plate allow for carrying a folded scooter on one's back in a convenient, efficient and safe manner.

Abstract: A device for containing a play back device for displaying and/or advertising commercial material and wherein the device is carried on the back or chest of a person to uniquely advertise or a fashion item or, in an eye-catching manner, one's goods, philosophies and/or services, particularly useful in close quarters as would be found at trade shows and the like.

Abstract: A carrying bag for receiving a portable personal computer, such as a laptop computer, is configurable to be carried in a briefcase mode, a shoulder bag mode, and a backpack mode. The bag can be configured to form stable frame or platform, thereby placing a personal computer received therein into an ergonomically comfortable position for working with while sitting, standing or even walking. Accessories and appliances can be accommodated within the bag and be readily accessible when the bag is set up as a stable frame or platform.

Abstract: An improved cellular phone has a longitudinal slit 11 cut in an outer case or cover of a cellular phone or a longitudinal pole 12 provided thereon. One end of a strap having a clipping device attached to the other end thereof is movably fitted in said slit or connected to said pole. The improved cellular phone permits its user to transmit and receive messages while keeping the cellular phone anchored to a pocket or other part of a persons clothes.

Abstract: An ankle-pack device is disclosed which allows the user to utilize in-line skates as a means of transportation without the necessity for a shoe carrying device usually attached to the upper portions of the body such as a back pack or belt pack. Shoes can easily be carried directly next to the in-line skate utilizing the disclosed device while in motion as well. Thus, the ankle-pack system or device leaves the upper portions of the body uninhibited during skating. Also, ankle-pack is fitted with an expandable bottom to accommodate the larger in-line skate when they are to be carried after the conclusion of skating. An additional extension strap provides the length needed to carry the ankle-pack on the shoulder.

Abstract: A floating caddy for holding and storing the gear of wading hunters comprising an inflatable tube formed from an impermeable fabric for providing flotation for the caddy. The tube is configured to create a water resistant storage compartment within its periphery. The top of the storage compartment has weather resistant zipper for access into the storage compartment. The caddy is fitted with straps for attaching a shotgun and shoulder straps mounted to the tube to allow the caddy to be carried on the back of the hunter in knapsack fashion. The caddy may be floated in and out of a flooded area by a wading hunter by means of a tether attached to the tube. The fabric forming the caddy maybe printed in a desired camouflage pattern.

Abstract: A golf bag incorporating an integrated back pad and dual straps is described. The back pad comprises two elements: an upper back pad member and a lower back pad member. The lower back pad member acts as an intermediate between the back of the golfer and the surface of the golf bag when being carried. The upper back pad member extends away from the golf bag body and provides additional back support to the golfer. Both dual straps are attached to the upper back pad member at one end and to either the golf bag body or the lower back pad member at the other end. Because the straps attach to the upper back pad member and are typically spaced from each other, the golfer can more intuitively determine both which shoulder strap to place over his shoulder first and which end of the shoulder strap corresponds to the portion of the shoulder strap that will rest on the golfer's shoulder.

Abstract: An improved golf bag handle assembly is provided to mount dual shoulder straps to a golf bag. The golf bag has a handle which is located on the sidewall of the bag. The central portion of the dual shoulder strap assembly is designed to be mounted to a unique handle casing which is slidably disposed on the existing golf bag handle. The strap assembly includes a mounting web connected to the central mounting element. The handle casing includes a handle portion and an attachment member or ring integral with the handle portion. The mounting web links the central mounting element to the attachment ring. The handle casing includes an internal channel adapted to accept the handle of the golf bag. The handle casing position may be adjusted such that the weight distribution between the user's shoulders may be adjusted.

Abstract: A backpack attachment system for a hardshell musical instrument carrying case includes rings that are permanently attached to the exterior of the case, thereby allowing quick access for using a backpack type strap or straps for carrying the case. The strap set itself is optionally removable, but the attachment rings are not, being permanently mounted to the case, using, for example, rivets, screws, snaps or equivalent means.

Abstract: A harness attached to or adapted to be attached to a golf bag to be positioned about the shoulders and neck of the user. The apparatus is adapted to allow the golf bag to be adjusted to balance the weight of the golf bag and golf clubs to allow the user to walk while carrying the golf clubs.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a see-through bookbag and, according to one embodiment, a see-through book bag containing an envelop for carrying artwork or advertising material.

Abstract: A combination workout backpack and detachable backpack bag is disclosed in which the workout backpack and one or more standard weighted weight bags are used for training, i.e., building strength and endurance, for hiking. In addition, a detachable backpack bag is releasably attachable to the workout backpack so that the combination thereof, without the standard weighted weight bags, is designed for use as a conventional backpack for carrying various items when hiking. The workout backpack includes two vertically-extending, side-by-side, weight storage compartments which are conformable to one or more weight bags to inhibit horizontal and vertical movement of the standard weighted weight bags when training. A plurality of straps with releasable interlocking buckle clasps releasably attach a vertically-extending central portion, opposite lateral side portions, and a top portion of the workout backpack and to the detachable backpack bag to form an integral unit similar to a conventional backpack.

Abstract: A removable one-piece, puncture resistant, flexible inner liner insert for use in a variety of backpacks, soft body portfolios, carrying bags and the like. The liner insert has an adjustable variably sized bottom portion having at least four side regions, at least four stress relief joints, a front flap attached to the first side region of said bottom portion, a back flap attached to the second side region of the bottom portion, and a first side flap and a second side flap attached to the third and fourth side regions of the bottom portion respectively. Additionally, a plurality of size adjusting perforations are located adjacent each of the four joints and run inwardly, at an approximately 45° angle, towards the center of the bottom portion. The size adjusting perforations enable an individual to easily adjust the size of the bottom portion of the liner insert such that it substantially corresponds to the size of the bottom region of the back pack that the liner insert is to be installed within.

Abstract: The organizer of the present invention has (a) a panel, (b) a work surface; and (c) a rim for coupling the work surface to the panel. Preferably, the panel is part of a backpack. The work surface is light permeable and a space exists between the work surface and the panel for placement of a sheet of paper or other object between the work surface and the panel. Static electricity maintains the sheet of paper against the work surface in a removably affixed position. The sheet has indicia thereon which are observable through the work surface.

Abstract: An apparatus and system for carrying a weight-bearing object, such as a golf bag, has a hip belt member for supporting the weight bearing object and reducing the load on the user's back and shoulders. An attachment member is coupled to the hip belt member for attaching the hip belt member to the weight-bearing object, and a belt fastener connects the hip belt member about the user's waist. Additional shoulder straps can be utilized to lift the object and stabilize and reduce movement of the weight-bearing object about the user. Hip belt members and shoulder pads can have vent slots for ventilation and improved comfort, while being worn in hot weather. Hip belt members and shoulder pads can have heat storage material added to cool the user, while being worn in hot weather.

Abstract: An ergonomically enhanced backpack comprises a frame having a semi-rigid dorsal plate contoured to the shape of the lumbar region. The dorsal plate is secured to the body by a combination of shoulder straps and waist belt. An expandable cargo compartment is behind the dorsal mounted plate and sandwiched between the dorsal plate and a panel or netting. Drawstrings combined with the belt allow the user to pull the panel or netting toward the dorsal plate, and thus compress the load against the lumbar area closer to the body's center of gravity. In the first embodiment, that panel has a hinged door giving access to the cargo compartment. A detachable, soft shell bag is mounted over the cargo compartment.

Abstract: The bag of the present invention is a self standing bag having a pair of pivotal legs secured proximate its upper extent. These legs are adapted to be retracted when the bag is lifted from the ground. A pair of straps enable the bag to be carried upon both shoulders of a user in a backpack style. Additionally, in order to ease the weight of the bag upon a user, the each of the straps is partially filled with a gel. Furthermore, the upper portion of each of the straps is secured to the bag by way of a shock absorber. This shock absorber includes upper and lower components which are interconnected by a pair of springs.

Abstract: A bag strap functions as a one-shoulder carrier or a two-shoulder carrier at any time according to the desire of the golfer. Reconfiguring the strap to convert from a one-shoulder type to a two-shoulder type, or visa versa, is easy and quick and can be accomplished even during a round of golf. The strap comprises two nested layers. When the two layers are secured together by a VELCRO hook and loop fastener and secured to upper and lower back rings by hooks, the strap functions as a one-shoulder strap. The nested configuration permits a comfortable, padded one-shoulder strap that is still reasonably thin and not unduly heavy and thick. Alternatively, strap layers may be separated from each other and the lower ring used as a slip through ring for an elongated belt secured by a slide-release buckle for encircling the golfer. Each layer is worn over a respective shoulder with the bag carried diagonally across the golfer's back.

Abstract: An ergonomic bookpack having an automatic suspension system is disclosed. A series of top straps, side straps, bottom straps and optional support members serve to move the bookpack center of gravity higher in the bookpack and closer to the wearer's body, significantly redistributing the load borne by the wearer's shoulders along a longer portion of the body and back. The body of the bookpack can be made so that the interior compartment of the bookpack body is transparent and the contents of the bookpack are visible to the human eye. The invention also comprises an optional yoke and lumbar pad. This bookpack of allows the wearer to bear heavier loads for a longer period of time with less fatigue, thus reducing the possibility of debilitating musculoskeletal difficulties.

Abstract: A two-strap golf bag carrier in which the first and second straps each being oriented in opposite angular directions are adapted to cross each other at approximately a mid-point of the user's back, at which crossing point the straps are joined together which obviates lateral movement of the straps away from each other as would cause a strap to slip off of a shoulder.

Abstract: A monolithic yolk type collar provides four adjustable straps for two or four point attachment to a golf bag. The collar is adapted to enable transverse mounting of the golf bag on the back of the golfer. The collar has a broad surface with compliant material for comfort and is adapted to take the necessary shape to fit a given golfer.

Abstract: A golf bag assembly adapted to be carried by an operator while operating a two-wheeled vehicle. The golf bag assembly includes a first bag body member forming a first receptacle for receiving golf clubs, and a second bag body member forming a second receptacle for receiving golf clubs. The upper ends of the first and second bag body members are pivotally coupled so that said first and second bag body members can pivot towards and away from each other. A releasable fastener is provided for securing the lower closed ends of the first and second bag body members. The lower ends are detachable in order to permit the first and second body members to pivot away from each other and assume an inverted V-shape so that the bag assembly can be safely transported on a motorcycle.

Abstract: An ergonomically designed bag is configured with a strap system that is easily converted from a two-strap backpack mode into a single-strap shoulder bag mode. The carrying strap is attached at a first end to the top of the bag. The strap is longitudinally dividable with a zipper incorporated into the strap. When in the backpack mode the zipper is open to define a pair of straps, the lower ends of which are connected to D-rings on lateral sides of the front panel. When in the shoulder bag mode the zipper is closed and the lower ends of both straps are connected to a D-ring on a side panel of the bag.

Abstract: A golf bag includes a carrier belt attached to the golf bag's body which has a longitudinal axis and a closed end and an open end. A fixing strap has a first end attached to the bag body near the open end and a second end attached to the bag body at an intermediate position between the open end and the closed end. The fixing strap is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bag body. First and second shoulder straps are connected to the fixing strap and oriented generally in the same plane as the fixing strap, with each shoulder strap forming a loop into which a shoulder of a user is inserted. A moveable connector slideably attaches the first and second shoulder straps together. Upon movement of the connector, the relative sizes or shapes of the loops are changed.

Abstract: A travel bag for a motorcycle is disclosed that can be easily attached and removed from a variety of different size motorcycle seat backs or sissy bars and ensures that the bag is secure during motorcycle operation. The bag carries a series of vertically aligned straps on the exterior surface of the bag that faces the front of the motorcycle. Each strap is adjustable in length to fit a variety of seat back widths. The height of the seat back or sissy bar determines how many straps are used. The straps are located on the bag so that the bottom of the bag may rest on the luggage rack when the bag is appropriately affixed to the seat back. Additional straps fasten the bag down to the luggage rack or the seat back itself, to prevent the bag from being lifted off at high speeds.

Abstract: A multi-purpose bag has a mesh pouch and a sleeve with a pair of ends. The pouch is attached along an annular seam to one of the ends of the sleeve. The other end of the sleeve has a closable mouth. Also included is a restricting feature for stowing the pouch to stop communication from inside the sleeve to inside the pouch. The multi-purpose bag can be used by stowing the pouch to stop communication from inside the sleeve to inside the pouch. The sleeve can at this time be at least partially filled before closing the sleeve.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a school-use backpack is provided which is similar in styling to conventional school-use backpacks, is durable, and which can be expanded to increase the interior storage volume of the backpack when additional storage space is required. In particular, the backpack of the present invention includes front, back, and side panels which define a zippered main storage compartment, two shoulder straps, and a zippered gusset which is sewn into the side panel of the backpack.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a serpentine tube which is wide enough to store a tennis ball and allow a tennis ball to roll or otherwise translate within the tube. The serpentine tube has an opening for receiving tennis balls and a dispenser for facilitating selective sequential removal a tennis ball. Gravity causes the tennis balls to roll to the bottom of the tube to a dispenser. The container may be worn by the user by conventional over the shoulder and around the waist straps. The container may be flipped to accommodate both right handed and left handed players. The container may also be pressurized to above atmospheric pressure to increase the life of the tennis balls contained therein.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward protective garments having a conformable backpack portion located on a back area of the garment, the conformable backpack portion being adapted to conform to equipment worn on a back of a wearer of the protective garment.

Abstract: A carrier (10) for a fish landing net (20) comprises two essentially flat and parallel sides (12, 14) that are attached together along the majority of their adjacent edges (16, 18) in a manner to form a pocket for receiving therein the fish landing net. A handle opening (30) at the bottom of the carrier permits the handle (26) to extend from the body of the carrier. The carrier includes an open/closure mechanism across the top or a part of the top and one side for permitting easy opening and withdrawal of the fish landing net from the carrier and easy insertion of the fish landing net into the carrier and closing. The fish landing net carrier also includes a plurality of individual pockets (36) of various shapes and sizes for carrying a variety of fishing accessories. In addition, the fish landing net carrier includes a strap mechanism (40) for strapping one or more fishing poles, rods, or pole caddies onto the back of the carrier for ease of transportation.

Abstract: A rucksack comprises a sack (1), a carrying harness (11) and a waistbelt (12). The rucksack has an external frame member comprising a U-shaped hoop (20) which is connected by its free ends to the waistbelt (12) and extends around the side walls (4) and front wall (2) of the rucksack (1). Compression straps (25, 28) are connected between the hoop (20) and the rucksack such that the hoop (20) may be adjusted relative to the rucksack (1). The hoop (20) is held in a sleeve (21) sewn to the walls (2, 4) of the rucksack (1).

Abstract: A combination collapsible backpack and lined compartment includes a backpack formed of a back section, a front section any bottom section attached to the front section and back section. The backpack further includes a pair of shoulder straps attached to the back section. The backpack may be collapsed onto the bottom section of the backpack. An upper lid is attached to the backpack, and the lid attachment attaches the bottom section of the backpack and the upper lid when the backpack is collapsed onto the bottom section of the backpack, so that the collapsed backpack is between the bottom section of the backpack and the lid. A carrying compartment has side walls and a bottom wall. A compartment attachment attaches the side walls of the carrying compartment to the bottom section of the backpack so that the bottom section of the backpack forms a top section of the carrying compartment.

Abstract: A golf bag with two carrying straps to enable a golfer, caddy or others to carry a golf bag by inserting their arms through a pair of loops defined by the carrying straps in order for the golf bag to be carried over both shoulders. Alternatively, the golf bag can be carried by only one of the straps in a conventional and well known manner by inserting one arm through a loop formed by one of the straps to support the bag from only one shoulder.

Abstract: A carrier belt is connected to a golf bag having a bag body with a longitudinal axis and a closed end and an open end. The carrier strap includes a fixing strap having a predetermined length with a first end attached to the bag body near the open end and a second end attached to the bag body at an intermediate position between the open end and the closed end. The fixing strap is elongated, flexible and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bag body. A pair of shoulder straps attached to the fixing strap provide a pair of loops which enable a user to position one shoulder of the user in one loop and the other shoulder of the user in the other loop. The shoulder straps are attached to the fixing strap so that the loops are oriented in a plane which is generally at a right angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the bag body and adjustable along the predetermined length of the fixing strap to accommodate the physique of the user.