Modular pack system with accessory couplers

Abstract

The present disclosure details a modular pack system having a hip belt and a pack accessory. The hip belt includes an upper stay strap and a lower stay strap. The upper stay strap is secured to the hip belt, the upper stay strap forming attachment loops. A lower stay strap is secured to the hip belt below the upper stay strap. The lower stay strap forms attachment loops as well. The pack accessory includes an attachment strap and an accessory loop. The attachment strap includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the attachment strap is secured to the pack accessory. The distal end includes a fastener thereon. The attachment strap extends transverse to the upper and lower stay straps and is routable through the upper and lower stay straps. The accessory loop is secured to the pack accessory. The accessory loop is positionable between the upper and lower stay straps such that the attachment strap is routable through the accessory loop between the upper and lower stay straps.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending application Ser. No. 09,927,433 filed Aug. 10, 2001, which claims priority of prior, co-pending application Ser. No. 60/224,445, filed Aug. 10, 2000. Both prior applications are herein incorporated by this reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to packs for recreational, sport, hunting, and exercise use, which are used to carry supplies or possessions that are needed on a hike, ride, walk, horseback ride, etc. More specifically, the invention relates to accessory coupler systems for securing bags or other accessories to a belt or other pack harness system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many backpacks have been developed for carrying equipment, food, and personal items during hiking, walking, climbing, and other outdoor sports and recreational activities. The term “backpacking” has become nearly synonymous with hiking while carrying supplies and equipment on one's back. The technique of carrying supplies/equipment in a backpack has many drawbacks, however. The backpack moves the user's center of gravity upwards and backwards, which tends to throw the user off-balance and makes many activities clumsy, difficult, and sometimes even dangerous. The backpack attaches a large, weighty object in back of the user, which, when the user is moving quickly, can create unpredictable forces on the user. For example, wearing a backpack while climbing or hiking over steep or difficult terrain greatly increases the chance of the user falling. Further, the pleasure of hiking, running, climbing, biking, horseback riding, and other activities is diminished if the user must be more conscience of his motions and his balance due to a backpack.

Attempts at pack systems for the leg have been made, but none offer the efficiency, comfort, and safety of the present invention during a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, running, horseback riding, and skiing. Clem (U.S. Pat. No. 4,848,624) discloses a “Thigh Mountable Small Modular Pack System with Demountable Interchangeable Pouches.” The Clem device is a rectangular, rigid box structure, with several compartments and lids. Clem discloses a single buckled strap for surrounding a user's conventional belt, or a waist belt that integrally extends from the device. The Clem device has a rectangular, planar back plate that does not conform to the user's thigh. The present inventor believes the angular, rectangular, and thick shape of the Clem device would cause discomfort to the user's leg and would cause discomfort to the user's arm when the arm swings back and forth, thus making any but the most sedentary use impractical and uncomfortable. Berman (U.S. Pat. No. 4,303,187) discloses a “Multiple Pocket Clothing Accessory,” which includes a single, broad upper portion of cloth extending integrally from the pocket and around a user's conventional belt.

Modular pack systems necessarily involve coupling bags or other accessories to a pack or harness system. Attachment methods to date have sometimes been cumbersome or insecure. An attachment system should be easy to use while firmly coupling the accessory to the harness, whether a belt or back harness or pack. Buckles can securely couple accessories, but are rigid and, thus, nonconforming to the user. Therefore, they can be uncomfortable in certain situations. Buckle rigidity also relates to toughness. A buckle may break when impacted with a hard object or when excessively bent. It may be difficult to snuggly secure an accessory with a buckle attachment in some attachment arrangements. Buckles or other such attachment devices may also not allow a multitude of attachment positions for an accessory, as a receiver buckle may have to be attached at each optional buckle location. Buckles can also be expensive.

Thus a need exists for a flexible coupler system that allows snug, secure attachment of accessory items, such as bags, with multi-position options on a belt or other harness. The system should also be lightweight, durable, and comfortable with low cost of construction and ease of use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an attachment device for securing an accessory to a pack system having a first stay loop. The attachment device includes a first strap and an accessory loop. The first strap is secured to the accessory. The first strap is flexible and has a width sufficiently narrowed to be insertable through the first stay loop. The accessory loop is secured adjacent to the first strap. The accessory loop is positionable adjacent the first stay loop. The first strap is routed through the first stay loop and through the accessory loop for attachment of the accessory to the pack system.

In one preferred aspect of the invention, the first strap includes a proximal end secured to the accessory and a distal end. The attachment system further includes a releasable fastener secured to the distal end of the first strap. In one preferred embodiment, the releasable fastener is a hook and loop fastener. The releasable fastener is securable to the accessory after being routed through the accessory loop. The first strap overlaps back on itself after passing through the stay loop and the accessory loop.

In one aspect of the invention, the pack system includes a second stay loop. In this embodiment, the first strap is routed through the second stay loop after being routed through the accessory loop. Preferably, the second stay loop is spaced from the first stay loop. In a further aspect of the invention, the attachment device further includes a second strap and a second accessory loop. As with the first, the second strap is secured to the accessory. The second strap is flexible and has a width sufficiently narrowed to be insertable through the second stay loop. The second accessory loop is secured adjacent the second strap. A second accessory loop is positionable adjacent a second stay loop. The second strap is routed through the second stay loop and through the second accessory loop for attachment of the accessory to the pack system.

The invention may also be summarized as being a modular pack system having a hip belt and a pack accessory. The hip belt includes an upper stay strap and a lower stay strap. The upper stay strap is secured to the hip belt, the upper stay strap forming attachment loops. A lower stay strap is secured to the hip belt below the upper stay strap. The lower stay strap forms attachment loops as well. The pack accessory includes an attachment strap and an accessory loop. The attachment strap includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the attachment strap is secured to the pack accessory. The distal end includes a fastener thereon. The attachment strap extends transverse to the upper and lower stay straps and is routable through the upper and lower stay straps. The accessory loop is secured to the pack accessory. The accessory loop is positionable between the upper and lower stay straps such that the attachment strap is routable through the accessory loop between the upper and lower stay straps.

In a further aspect of the invention, the attachment strap is looped back onto itself and held with the fastener at the distal end thereof. The pack accessory may have a buckle or ring secured to the proximal end of the attachment strap. In one embodiment, the accessory is a bag secured to the proximal end of the attachment strap. In such an embodiment, the distal end of the attachment strap is releaseably fastened to the bag after extending through the accessory loop.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the modular pack includes a second attachment strap and a second accessory loop. Similar to the first attachment strap and accessory loop, the second attachment strap includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the second attachment strap is secured to the pack accessory. The distal end includes a fastener thereon. The attachment strap extends transverse to the upper and lower stay straps and is routable through the upper and lower stay straps. A second accessory loop is secured to the pack accessory as well. The second accessory loop is positionable between the upper and lower stay straps such that the attachment strap is routable through the second accessory loop between the upper and lower stay straps.

A further feature of the invention includes a hip belt having an elongate member, a first strap, and a buckle. The elongate member has sufficient length to extend along a user's back and hips. The elongate member includes first and second ends, an inner side, and an outer side. The first strap has a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is secured to the first end of the elongate member. The distal end has a hook and loop material thereon. The buckle slidably engaged with the first strap. The elongate member includes a hook and loop material secured to the inner side of the first end thereof. The material is engageable with the distal end of the first strap. Thus, pressure between the elongate member and the user securely holds the first strap in place.

In one preferred aspect of the invention, a second strap is provided having a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is secured to the second end of the elongate member. The distal end has a hook and loop material thereon with the elongate member second end having a mating hook and loop material.

The hip belt thus described further may include a stay strap secured to the outer side of the elongate member. A stay strap forms loops thereon with the hip belt further having an accessory coupler. The accessory coupler includes an attachment strap and an accessory loop. The attachment strap is dimensioned to extend through the stay loops. The attachment strap extends through the accessory loop after passing through at least one stay loop.

As will be readily appreciated from the foregoing summary, the invention provides a modular pack system for attachment of accessories thereto. A system includes couplers which are flexible and secure, but can be easily released as desired or release of the accessory or for modification of the system attachment locations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the invented modular bag system on a user;

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, wherein the left thigh bag of the system is pivoted to the front with the leg of the user;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of another embodiment of a modular bag system, including right and left thigh bags, right and left small side bags, and a rear bag, all on one embodiment of an invented hip belt, wherein the system is unattached from a user and flattened-out for viewing;

FIG. 4 is an alternative embodiment of the invented modular bag system, including a hip belt and two side bags with contoured shape, wherein the system is unattached from a user and flattened-out for viewing;

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the back surface of the right side bag of FIG. 4, showing a loop for sliding-on to the belt;

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the back surface of the rear, center bag of the embodiment of FIG. 3, showing a loop for sliding-on to the belt;

FIG. 7A is a rear view of an alternative thigh bag, with a single loop at its top for sliding-on to a hip belt, and a flexible extension between the loop and bag;

FIG. 7B is a rear view of an alternative thigh bag, with a single loop for sliding onto the hip belt, and two flexible extensions from the loop to the bag;

FIG. 7C is a front view of an alternative system according to the invention, wherein each thigh bag has two flexible straps that each connect independently to the belt;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one narrow- and thin-topped bag, according to the invention, including compression straps;

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of the bag embodiment of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a front view of the bag embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative bag system according to the invention, including two thigh bags and two center rear straps;

FIG. 12 illustrates one embodiment of a pivot-axis connector that also includes a flip-up features;

FIG. 13A illustrates one embodiment of a pivot-axis connector;

FIG. 13B illustrates one embodiment of a two flexible-strap connector;

FIG. 13C illustrates one embodiment of a single flexible-strap connector;

FIG. 14A illustrates one embodiment of a hip belt, with snap-on pivot-axis style connectors;

FIG. 14B illustrates another embodiment of a hip belt, with snap-together buckle, flexible-strap connectors;

FIG. 14C illustrates another embodiment of a hip belt, which is a belt sleeve with connectors portions, wherein a conventional belt may be slid into the belt sleeve;

FIG. 15 is a side-elevational view of a hip belt with an adjustment strap;

FIG. 16A is a side-elevational view of a hip belt with an accessory bag attached;

FIG. 16B is a side-elevational view of a hip belt with an accessory bag attached;

FIG. 16C is a rear-elevational view of the accessory bag of FIGS. 16A and 16B;

FIG. 17A is a side-elevational view of a coupler of the present invention with the attached hip belt in cross section; and

FIG. 17B is a side-elevational view of a coupler of the present invention with the attached hip belt in cross section.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the drawings, there are shown preferred, but not the only, embodiments of the invented leg pack system 10. Preferably, the leg pack system includes bags and carried objects that are positioned substantially between the waist and the knee, and not below the knee. Preferably, the leg pack system includes bags and carried objects at both sides of the user, substantially equally distributed between right and left side, and optional small bags and objects on the back or the front.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, a preferred modular leg pack system 10 comprises a right thigh bag 14 and left thigh bag 14′, on a hip belt 40 that is fastened around the user's waist or upper hips. The thigh bags 14, 14′ extend from a few inches below the belt to a few inches above the knees, and wrap part way around the legs. Each bag has a strap 32, 32′ fastened around the leg above the knee, with the leg strap 32, 32′ fasteners easily reachable by the user from the front.

FIG. 2 illustrates the leg pack system 10 in use and how the thigh bags 14, 14′ pivot relative to the hip belt 40 to move with the user's legs. As discussed later in this Detailed Description, the connection means for the thigh bags 14, 14′ preferably includes a pivot feature, which may comprise a connector with a pivot axis or a connector that is flexible and sized for allowing a bag to swing/pivot in a plane generally parallel to the belt, that is, to swing/pivot with the leg. In FIG. 2, the left leg and left thigh bag are pivoted so fat forward that the leading pivotal connection of the thigh bag is both pivoted and rotated up against the belt, as schematically portrayed in FIG. 12.

In FIGS. 1 and 2, one may see a left thigh bag 14′ front surface 12, and leading side 16 and trailing side 18. The thigh bags 14, 14′ may optionally include a thin and narrow top end 22 and a thicker and wider bottom end 24 (see FIGS. 8-10). Leg strap support panels 30 extend out from the bag, perpendicular to the length of the bag. The leg straps 32, 32′ extend out from the support panels 30, and may each have a thin, curved-to-leg contour quick-release buckle. The panels 30 tend to provide a secure attachment point, plus they prevent the strap 32, 32′ from sagging down the leg. With panels 30, a firm, sure, and predictably-placed leg strap system provides comfortable and effective connection to the leg above the knee.

In FIG. 3, there is shown a modular bag system 100 according to the invention, which shows two thigh bags 14, 14′ a center rear bag 15, and two small side bags 17. The two thigh bags 14, 14′ are connected by a connector means that includes two connectors 31 made of upper portions 34, 34′ and bottom portions 50 that connect together, in a quickly-attachable and quickly-releasable manner. Each connector 31 may include a pivot axis 60, which in the preferred embodiment, comprises the bottom portion 50 rotating around the protrusion on the upper portion onto which the bottom portion snaps.

FIG. 3 (and also FIGS. 14A and 14B to good advantage) illustrate the position and preferred angle of two upper portions of connectors 34, 34′ on a hip belt 40. Preferably, the leading upper portion 34 extends generally downward vertically from the belt when it is on the user, that is, generally perpendicular to the length of the belt. The trailing upper portion 34′ is preferably non-parallel to the leading upper portion 34, that is, preferably angled toward the leading upper portion 34 (toward the user's front when in use). The preferred angle is in the range of about 25-45 degrees relative to parallel to the leading portion 34 (or, that is, about 65 to 45 down from the longitudinal axis of the belt), but other angles may be optimal for various bags and users. This preferred angled connector provides an attachment point for the bag which tends to position the bag properly on the thigh, and which allows the bag to easily pivot forward during use.

The leg straps 32, 32′ of the thigh bags in FIG. 3 are shown to have their lengths substantially located on the trailing sides of the bags. This way, the straps 32, 32′ can extend around the inside of the leg to near the front of the leg, for easy fastening by the user. The leg strap support panels 30, in effect, allow a firmer (compared to the leg straps), thin and flat structure to extend out from the bottom of the bag for a total coverage for bag and panels of about 180 degrees around the leg. Because of the firm panels, which flex in one direction (around the surface of the leg) the leg straps do not sag or shift, and excessive tightening of the leg strap around the leg is unnecessary.

The rear center bag 15 in FIG. 3 slides onto the belt 40 by means of its rear loop 41 on its back surface, which is illustrated in FIG. 6. This loop may be substantially the same length as the width of the bag 15, because this rear bag need not, and preferably does not, pivot relative to the hip belt.

The small side bags 17 also slide onto the belt 40 by means of rear loop (not shown). The side bags 17 are preferably sized to slide over, and fit between, the upper portions 34, 34′ of the connectors. The upper portions 34, 34′ may be flipped up against the main body of the belt to move out of the way of the bag 17 loop, and, when the bag 17 is in place between the upper portions 34, 34′, the upper portions may be flipped down for use with thigh bags 14. The connectors may then serve to hold the small side bags in place along the length of the belt.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, right and left bags do not necessarily need to be identical, and the modularity of the invented system allows the bags to be switched or changed or eliminated. Balancing the size and number of bags between right and left is certainly desirable, for ease of movement, safety, and to prevent off-balance walking or damage to muscles or joints. However, the accessory features may be changed, for example, a left thigh bag with outer compression straps 20, and a right thigh bag without compression straps but with multiple outer pockets. A left side bag may include a main zippered pocket, while the right side bag may include multiple outer flaps/pockets. Preferably, no matter what style the various bags are, they include easily assessable openings, which the user may reach without removing or loosening the belt 40.

In FIG. 4 is shown an embodiment including a hip belt 40 with two mirror image contoured side bags 62. These side bags slide onto an end of the belt by means of an elongated, tapered sleeve 64 on the back surface of each bag 62, shown in FIG. 5. The contoured lower perimeter 66 of the bag 62 and its small leading end allow free and comfortable movement of the leg, while the larger trailing end positioned at the rear of the upper thigh, out of the way of the leg swing, provides packing volume.

A user may find the invented bag system advantageous in walking, jumping, and climbing. The thigh packs move naturally with the user's legs, without shifting and wobbling. Center of gravity is kept low and centered between left and right (assuming the user has properly packed the thigh bags to about the same weight), in fact, slightly lowered below the natural center of gravity for a person. One can see that the total volume of pack capacity in the invented system is quite large, sufficient for most sporting, recreational, and day-long activities. With the easy assess provided to the bags, it is to access the thigh bags and side bags and the contents of the bags without taking the bags off of the belt, and without any twisting of the body. Therefore, many activities may be comfortably and conveniently undertaken with the pack system, and with the invented leg pack system rather than a conventional backpack system, even biking, skiing, running, or other sports become easy again.

As suggested in FIGS. 1 and 2, the construction of the thigh bags, and their connection to the hip belt, are preferably adapted for easy and smooth pivoting relative to the belt. This may be done by various connectors, for example, the pivot-axis style pivoting connectors shown in FIG. 1-3, 11, 12, 13A, and 14A, or the flexible style pivoting connectors shown in FIGS. 7A-7C, 13B, 13C and 14B.

In the pivot-axis style connector (best depicted in FIGS. 3 and 14A), the upper portion 34, 34′ of the connector comprises a webbing upper strap 52 and a rigid, generally planar, top snap-together rigid member 54. The bottom portion 50 of the connector comprises the rigid, generally planar, bottom snap-together member 56 and a short flexible bottom strap 58. Upper strap 52 is sewn to the hip belt near the bottom edge of the belt, as shown in the drawings, and looped through the elongated slot in top member 54. The bottom strap 56 is sewn to the top of the thigh bag and looped through the elongated slot in bottom member 56. Both the leading connector (L) and the trailing connector (T) preferably have similar construction, but may be installed on the belt at different angles, as discussed above. The leading connector (L) hangs generally straight downward, and the trailing connector (T) is angled slightly forward toward the leading connector. This helps with strength and durability of the connector system, as the two connectors therefore form a V-shape with the top of the bag at the point of the V. Also, this provides good aesthetics for the connectors relative to the curvature of the bottom edge of the belt.

Preferably, snap-together, rigid members 54 and 56 feature a pivot axis 60 near the center of the connector. Members 54 and 56 releaseably connect together, in this embodiment, by one member having an aperture sliding over the pivot axis “post” on the other member, like a “suspender and button hook” system. When connected together, the two members lie in generally a single plane, or in two very close parallel planes in the preferred embodiment, which is/are herein referred to as the “pivot plane(s)”. Because of the placement of the hip belt on the user's body, arid the connector's position relative to the belt, the pivot plane(s) is parallel to the plane of the outer thigh or clothing on the thigh. The two members 54 and 56 pivot relative to each other in that pivot plane(s), typically with the bottom member 56 pivoting around the post of the top member 54. In addition, as may be seen particularly in the movement of the leading connector (L), the flexible straps or the seem between the flexible straps and the belt and the bag may bend, to allow the rigid connector to flip upwards against the belt, thus allowing the bag to comfortably move up higher against the belt when the leg is far forward (see FIGS. 1 and 12, for example). With these actions of pivoting and flipping-up, the connectors provide greatly improved action for the bag, and greatly improved durability and comfort, compared to what would result from simply a strap of webbing connecting the bag to the belt. This way, the webbing straps or other extension member(s) of the connector do not twist or bend. As stated above, a few inches of strap is desired to place the bag at about 2.5-3 inches from the bottom edge of the belt, but the strap is not needed for pivoting. In fact, the bottom rigid member 56 could be directly sewn/attached to the bag, without a strap 58, in such away that the bottom rigid member 56 can rotate relative to the bag. Or, the top rigid member 54 could be directly sewn/attached to the belt, in such a way that the top rigid member 54 can rotate relative to the belt. For sake of clarity, herein the term “pivot” is used to describe the action of the connection that allows the connector (or part of the connector) to swing in a plane generally parallel to the belt surface (and the outer thigh and clothing surface), and the term “rotate” is used to describe the action of the connector as it flips up at point 3 in FIG. 12, and the action of the top of the bag relative to the connector at point 2 in FIG. 12. Thus, one may see that preferably each top connector includes three axis of pivoting/rotation, wherein typically two (points 2 and 3 in FIG. 12) are transverse (normal) to the main connector pivot (point 1 in FIG. 12).

The preferred pivot axis 60 is a protruding button or knob that extends out from the upper connector on the belt, combined with an aperture in the lower connector that snaps around/onto, and pivots at least 90 degrees (and preferably more) around, the protruding button/knob. The protruding button/knob, and, therefore, the pivot axis extends horizontally and laterally out from the belt generally at the side of the user.

In use, when the leg is moved from a completely vertical position, the thigh pack travels with it. The pivot connectors typically pivot forward at the pivot axis, and, then, as the leg movement reaches farther forward, the leading connector flips up, as described above. When the leg returns to the vertical position and then a rearward position, the connector flips down and pivots at the pivot axis in the opposite, rearward direction.

It should be noted that other pivotal connectors may be used besides the ones shown in the Figures, and the pivot axis does not necessarily need to be in the center of the connector, but may be nearer the bag or nearer the belt, for example. Preferably, but not always necessarily, the pivot-axis style upper connector portions are substantially rigid, which helps prevent the bag from riding tip on the leg, and helps prevent the bag wobbling.

The flexible-pivot style of connector is illustrated by examples in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 13B, and 13C. Instead of rigid, pivoting connectors forming a pivot axis, the flexible straps shown in these Figures may serve to flex, and, therefore, to allow the thigh bag to pivot relative to the belt. Two flexible straps are preferred for this style of connector, wherein each strap is independently attached to the belt or wherein the multiple straps are attached to a single loop that extends around the belt. The embodiment of FIG. 7A and 13C illustrates a single loop around the belt and a single flexible strap to the bag. Preferably, for security and load-spreading, either multiple flexible straps or a wider single flexible strap is preferred.

FIGS. 8-10 illustrate a thigh bag 114 with a narrow and thin top, which is preferred by some users. This narrow- and thin-topped bag does not significantly interfere with arm motion even during more extreme activities.

A hydration unit, jacket, or other items may be held on the hip belt central rear section, for example, in the tightenable rear straps 42 on either side of center, shown in FIG. 11. A hydration unit reservoir may be attached to the centrally-located rear straps 42 and the hydration tube may be clipped to the front chest of the user.

Padding is preferably included in the back wall of the bag and in the leg strap support panels, as this adds some rigidity to the bag, and comfort for the user. The resulting back wall (also referred to as the “back plane” of the bag) is preferably generally planar, with enough flexibility that it can flex around the curvature of the thigh, preferably all along the length of the bag. This curvature contributes to the bag fitting closely to the thigh and movement naturally with the leg without wobble or other movements relative to the leg that would unbalance the user.

FIG. 14C illustrates that a “hip belt” according to the invention may include, in some embodiments, a sleeve that slides onto a conventional belt. This serves, in effect, as an adapter to make a conventional belt usable as a hip belt for the invented bag system. Preferably, the sleeve includes means for securing the sleeve to the conventional belt, either by friction, by fasteners, or other anchoring systems.

FIG. 15 illustrates a side elevational view of a portion of a hip belt 210 of the present invention that includes an adjustable belt attachment strap 212. More completely, hip belt 210 includes a belt attachment strap 212, a buckle 214, an inner side 216, and an outer side (not shown). Hip belt 210 may be used as part of the harness system of a backpack, hip pack, leg packs, or other harness system. The elongate portion of hip belt 210 surrounds the waist of the user and may be fastened thereabout with buckle 214 attached to a complimentary buckle on the other end thereof (not shown).

The width of hip belt 210 is sufficient to comfortably secure the load around the waist of the user and may be contoured to the hips of the user. Hip belt 210 may include padding therein with a more rugged outer shell such as a thick nylon fabric.

Belt attachment strap 212 is preferably constructed of nylon webbing material. The belt attachment strap 212 includes a proximal end 218 fixedly secured to inner side 216 of hip belt 210. Strap 212 also includes a distal end 220. A hook and loop fastener 222 is secured to the inner sides of belt attachment strap 212 such that the sides may be secured together. Alternatively, half of the hook and loop fastener 222 may simply be secured to a first end 223 of the inner side 216 of hip belt 210 with the opposite hook and loop fastener secured to the inside of belt attachment strap 212 such that they may be joined together. Since the belt attachment strap 212 is secured to the inner side 216 of hip belt 210, pressure between inner side 216 and the user helps secure the position of belt attachment strap 212 with the hook and loop fastener 222. The hook and loop fastener 222 is very secure in sheer and would not have any tendency to be pulled off due to the compression around the hips or waist of the user. Thus, a quick and easy adjustment of the position of buckle 214 is provided by simply releasing buckle 214 and releasing the pressure of hip belt 210 about the waist of the user such that distal end 220 of attachment strap 212 can be pulled away from proximal end 218 to release the hook and loop fastener for repositioning. Note that buckle 214 is slidably secured to belt attachment strap 212 such that repositioning allows buckle 214 to move along belt attachment strap 212 for adjustment purposes. Other fasteners, such as snaps, may alternatively be used.

Referring now to FIGS. 16A through 16C, an accessory coupler of the present invention will now be discussed. A pack belt 224 is provided. Pack belt 224 may be similar to hip belt 210 discussed above. Pack belt 224 includes a flexible outer shell with inner padding to be secured about the waist and hips of a user. Pack belt 224 may be part of a larger pack system such as a backpack or may be for use with an accessory bag 226, leg bags, or other accessory item. A belt strap 228 with a buckle 230 is provided at the first and second ends of pack belt 224 to secure the belt about the waist of the user. An adjustment mechanism may be used such as is known in the art or such as that discussed above in connection with FIG. 15. Belt strap 228 is preferably constructed of a non-stretch nylon webbing material. Buckle 230 is preferably of molded plastic.

Pack belt 224 includes upper and lower stay straps 232 and 234 that provide stay loops 236. Upper and lower stay straps 232 and 234 are preferably constructed of nylon webbing material in elongate straps that extend along the length of pack belt 224, the upper stay strap spaced above the lower stay strap. Stay loops 236 are created by stitching upper and lower stay straps at intervals along their length so as to create stay loops 236. Accessory straps may pass under loops 236 top to bottom or bottom to top between stay straps 232 and 234 and the outer side of pack belt 224. Stay loops 236 are preferably snug against the outer side of pack belt 224, but alternatively, could be provided with extra strap material such that they bulge outwardly from pack belt 224.

Accessory bag 226, as shown in the illustrations of FIGS. 16A through 16C is simply for illustrative purposes. Any accessory with the coupling system described herein falls within the present invention. Accessory bag 226 may be used to hold various items that the user wishes to carry. Thus, the shape and dimensions of accessory bag 226 or other accessory that may include such a coupling system depend upon the use for which the bag or holder is contemplated. For example, accessory bag 226 may also include external pockets for a water bottle, ammunition, tools, or other uses. Alternatively, the coupling system may be secured to a loop or sleeve for holding tools or other items.

The coupling system of accessory bag 226 includes an accessory attachment strap 238 having a proximal end 240 and a distal end 242. Proximal end 240 is fixedly secured to the back side of accessory bag 226. In the preferred embodiment, such fixed attachment is by stitching of the webbing material of accessory attachment strap 238 to the back side of bag 226. The underside of the distal end 242 of attachment strap 238 includes a hook and loop fastener 244. A mating hook and loop fastener is also secured to the back side of bag 226 for engagement therewith. An accessory loop 246 is also provided, fixedly attached to the back side of bag 226. In the preferred embodiment, accessory loop 246 is secured beneath the proximal end 240 of attachment strap 238. Accessory loop 246 preferably extends transverse to the longitudinal axis of accessory attachment strap 238 and is stitched so as to provide a sleeve through which distal end 242 of attachment strap 238 may extend. By extending distal end 242 through accessory loop 246, a loop is created between the fixed attachment of proximal end 240 of attachment strap 238 and accessory loop 246. As seen in FIG. 16C, two accessory attachment straps and accessory loops are preferably used on the back side of bag 226 for stable attachment of the bag to pack belt 224.

The spacing of accessory attachment strap 238 and accessory loops 246 is such that they may be conveniently engaged with stay loops 236 of upper and lower stay straps 232 and 234. As seen in FIG. 16A, accessory attachment strap 238 may be extended through a stay loop 236 of upper stay strap 232. After which accessory attachment strap 238 extends through accessory loop 246 and then through a stay loop 236 of lower stay strap 234. After extending through lower stay strap 234, distal end 242 may be secured to the back side of accessory bag 226 with hook and loop fastener 244. Thus, accessory bag 226 is held secure to pack belt 224. Note that by extending accessory attachment strap 238 through accessory loop 246, accessory bag 226 is more securely held to pack belt 224. Thus, if an outward force is applied to accessory bag 226 away from pack belt 224, attachment strap 238 is unlikely to simply slide out of stay loops 236 since separation of hook and loop fastener 244 is not as easily accomplished with accessory loop 246 holding the strap in place. Thus, the hook and loop fastener 244 must more substantially be separated in sheer which is more difficult than simply pulling it apart by applying a force normal to the surfaces. Thus, in an alternate embodiment, an additional accessory loop 246 may also be secured to accessory bag 226 below lower stay strap 234.

Further, in an alternate attachment arrangement, shown in FIG. 16B, lower stay strap 234 may be bypassed with distal end 242 simply attaching to hook and loop fastener 244 after extending through accessory loop 246.

As mentioned above, this attachment system described in FIGS. 16A through 16C may be used for bags or other devices to securely hold an accessory to pack belt 224. Furthermore, the system may be used with other harness systems than pack belt 224. For example, stay loops 236 could be provided on shoulder straps to secure an accessory to the front or back of such straps.

The basic coupler system of the present invention is further set forth in alternate embodiments shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B. In FIG. 17A, a strap extends upwardly from a coupler. This may be a suspender or shoulder strap, for example. In FIG. 17B, a pack accessory is suspended downwardly from a coupler 252′. Such pack accessory may be a leg pack, for example.

Referring first to FIG. 17A, a hip belt 248 is provided similar to that described above in connection with FIGS. 16A and 16B. Hip belt 248 includes a covering and a padding for surrounding the waist of a user. A pack accessory 250 is to be attached to hip belt 248 with a coupler 252.

Hip belt 248 includes an upper stay strap 254 and a lower stay strap 256. Stay straps 254 and 256 form attachment loops 258 extending longitudinally around at least a portion of hip belt 248 in a manner similar to that described above in connection with FIGS. 16A and 16B. Thus, stay straps 254 and 256 are preferably constructed of nylon webbing material that is stitched at intervals around hip belt 248 to form attachment loops 258. The straps are separated vertically, but preferably run generally parallel one to another.

A coupler 252 with a coupler strap 260 is provided for securing the pack accessory 250 to hip belt 248. Coupler strap 260 includes a proximal end 262 with a ring 264 attached thereto. Ring 264 provides a place to which a clip 266 may be attached for securement of pack accessory 250. A coupler loop 268 is secured near proximal end 262, but runs transverse to the longitudinal axis of coupler strap 260 such that a portion of coupler strap 260 may extend therethrough as it is looped around. The distal end 270 folds on to the back side of proximal end 262 and the two are secured together with a hook and loop fastener 272. Thus, the overall configuration of coupler strap 260 in combination with coupler 268 form somewhat of a “figure 8” or a “B” shape.

The attachment of coupler 252 to hip belt 248 will now be described. Distal end 270 of coupler strap 260 is threaded up through lower stay strap 256, through coupler loop 268 than through upper stay strap 254. Coupler strap 260 extends through attachment loops 258 on upper and lower stay straps 254 and 256. Distal end 270 of coupler strap 260 is then looped through ring 264 and laid against proximal end 262 such that both sides of hook and loop fastener 272 engage each other, one side being secured to proximal end 262 while the other side is secured to distal end 270.

A force may be applied on ring 262 by clip 266 from accessory 250. However, the load is sufficiently secure due to the looping of coupler strap 260. Any force on distal end 270 of coupler strap 260 is in sheer, which hook and loop fastener 272 is quite adequate to deal with.

FIG. 17B illustrates an alternate inverted use of coupler 252′. Please note that that the looping of coupler strap 260′ is essentially the same as that described above in connection with FIG. 17A except that it starts with attachment loop 258′ of upper stay strap 254′ such that it extends from top to bottom rather than from bottom to top. Note that in FIG. 17B, the numbering is essentially the same as that for FIG. 17A except for the use of the prime symbol after each number. In this instance, a buckle 264′ is used in place of ring 264 for securement of a pack accessory below hip belt 248′. Such pack accessory may be a leg bag or the securement of the lower end of a backpack. Once again, the forces on coupler 252′ are such that the Velcro attachment is sufficient to withstand the sheer forces involved once coupler strap 260′ is properly looped about attachment loops 258′ and coupler loop 268′.

Please note that all of the embodiments described herein take advantage of the fact that the fastener that secures the straps together is strong in sheer. Thus, combined with the coupler loops and the attachment loops a secure flexible attachment is achieved that is inexpensive to manufacture, durable, and easy to use. The user can simply pull the distal end of the coupler strap away from the proximal end to separate the hook and loop fastener after which the strap can be pulled out from the attachment loops and the coupler loop. The positioning is then possible on a different area of the pack belt or harness system.

While preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, as noted above, many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the couplers may be used to attach items other than bags, such as equipment to be carried. Alternatively, fasteners other than the “hook and loop” variety may be used. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited by the disclosure of the preferred embodiment. Instead, the invention should be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.

Claims

1. An attachment device for securing an accessory to a pack system having a first stay loop, the attachment device comprising:

a. a first strap secured to the accessory, said first strap being flexible and having a width sufficiently narrow to be insertable through the first stay loop;

b. an accessory loop secured adjacent said first strap, said accessory loop being positionable adjacent the first stay loop; and further

c. wherein said first strap is routed through said first stay loop and through said accessory loop for attachment of the accessory to the pack system.

2. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein said first strap includes a proximal end secured to the accessory and a distal end, the attachment system further comprising a releasable fastener secured to the distal end of said first strap.

3. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein said releasable fastener comprises a hook and loop fastener.

4. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein said releasable fastener is securable to the accessory after being routed through said accessory loop.

5. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein said releasable fastener is securable to said first strap after being routed through said accessory loop, said first strap forming a loop overlapping back on itself.

6. The attachment device of claim 5, wherein the pack system includes a second stay loop, and further wherein said first strap is routed through the second stay loop after being routed through said accessory loop.

7. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein the pack system includes a second stay loop, and further wherein said first strap is routed through the second stay loop after being routed through said accessory loop.

8. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the pack system includes a second stay loop, and further wherein said first strap is routed through the second stay loop after being routed through said accessory loop.

9. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the pack system has a second stay loop spaced from said first stay loop, said attachment device further comprising:

a. a second strap secured to the accessory, said second strap being flexible and having a width sufficiently narrow to be insertable through the second stay loop;

b. a second accessory loop secured adjacent said second strap, said second accessory loop being positionable adjacent said second stay loop; and further

c. wherein said second strap is routed through said second stay loop and through said second accessory loop for attachment of the accessory to the pack system.

10. A modular pack comprising:

a. a hip belt having: i. an upper stay strap secured to said hip belt, said upper stay strap forming attachment loops; and ii. a lower stay strap secured to said hip belt below said upper stay strap, said lower stay strap forming attachment loops; and

b. a pack accessory having: i. an attachment strap with a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal end of said attachment strap being secured to said pack accessory, said distal end having a fastener thereon, said attachment strap extending transverse to said upper and lower stay straps and being routable through said upper and lower stay straps; and ii. an accessory loop secured to said pack accessory, said accessory loop being positionable between said upper and lower stay straps such that said attachment strap is routable through said accessory loop between said upper and lower stay straps.

11. The modular pack of claim 10, wherein said attachment strap is looped back onto itself and held with said fastener at said distal end thereof.

12. The modular pack of claim 11, wherein said pack accessory comprises a buckle secured to said proximal end of said attachment strap.

13. The modular pack of claim 11, wherein said pack accessory comprises a ring secured to said proximal end of said attachment strap.

14. The modular pack of claim 10, wherein said accessory comprises a bag secured to said proximal end of said attachment strap.

15. The modular pack of claim 14, wherein said distal end of said attachment strap is releaseably fastened to said bag after extending through said accessory loop.

16. The modular pack of claim 10, further comprising:

a. a second attachment strap with a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal end of said second attachment strap being secured to said pack accessory, said distal end having a fastener thereon, said attachment strap extending transverse to said upper and lower stay straps and being routable through said upper and lower stay straps; and

b. a second accessory loop secured to said pack accessory, said second accessory loop being positionable between said upper and lower stay straps such that said attachment strap is routable through said second accessory loop between said upper and lower stay straps.

17. The modular pack of claim 10, wherein said hip belt further comprises an adjustable attachment strap and a buckle for securing said hip belt about the waist of a user, said strap having a hook and loop fastener material secured thereon, a mating hook and loop fastener material being secured to an inner side of said hip belt, pressure on the inner side of said hip belt adding to the secure attachment of said hook and loop material to keep said attachment strap securely in place during use.

18. A hip belt comprising:

a. an elongate member having a length sufficient to extend along a user's back and hips, said elongate member having first and second ends, an inner side, and an outer side;

b. a first strap having a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal end being secured to said first end of said elongate member, said distal end having a hook and loop material thereon;

c. a buckle slidably engaged with said first strap; and further

d. wherein said elongate member includes a hook and loop material secured to said inner side of said first end of said elongate member, said material being engageable with said distal end of said first strap, pressure between said elongate member and the user securely holding said first strap in place.

19. The hip belt of claim 18, further comprising a second strap having a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal end being secured to said second end of said elongate member, said distal end having a hook and loop material thereon; said elongate member second end having a mating hook and loop material thereon.

20. The hip belt of claim 18, further comprising a stay strap secured to said outer side of said elongate member, said stay strap forming loops thereon; said hip belt further comprising an accessory coupler comprising:

a. an attachment strap dimensioned to extend through said stay loops; and

b. an accessory loop, through which said attachment strap extends after passing through at least one stay loop.