OUTERWEAR, BAGS AND OTHER GEAR INCLUDING RETAINING STRUCTURES PARTICULARLY CONFIGURED FOR CARRYING BABY CARE ARTICLES

Abstract

A bag or garment having a pocket or retaining structure particularly configured to secure a baby wipes container. The bag or garment may include an elongate slot and a retaining mechanism secured across the slot such that a baby wipes container placed between the slot and the retaining mechanism is secured thereto such that an opening in the baby wipes container for accessing wipes therein is aligned with the slot. The bag and garment may further include a particularly arranged pocket for holding a baby changing mat, bottles, diapers, and other baby paraphernalia.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a non-provisional application claiming priority to co-pending provisional application No. 60/715,563 titled “Outwear, Bags, and other Gear Including Retaining Structures Particularly Configured for Carrying Baby Care Articles,” filed on Sep. 8, 2005, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention involve outerwear, bags, and other gear including retaining structures particularly configured for carrying baby care articles.

BACKGROUND

Conventional bags and garments often include numerous specialized pockets for a variety of accessories, including cell phones, personal data assistants, music players, lap top computers and associated accessories, pens, pocket knives, and a myriad of other accessories. Bags and garments specifically designed for mothers and fathers of babies and toddlers may also include an assortment of pockets. Heretofore, however, it is believed that such bags and garments have not included specifically designed pockets and retaining structures for baby wipes or for baby changing mats, and other combinations of pockets and structures particularly configured for baby and toddler paraphernalia as set forth in more detail below.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the invention involves a bag that includes a retaining structure adapted to secure a baby wipes container, the retaining structure comprising a portion of fabric defining a slot and at least one retaining portion of fabric positioned across the slot. A messenger bag or other bag type may further include a removable front flap, which allows a user to customize their bag with different flaps having different unique designs. A bag may further include other pockets and storage areas as set forth in greater detail herein.

Another aspect of the invention involves a garment, such as a coat or vest, that includes a baby wipes container pocket comprising a fabric panel secured to an inner portion of the garment, the fabric panel defining a slot oriented to provide access to a baby wipes container placed within the baby wipes container pocket. The garment may further include a baby changing mat pocket and other pockets and storage areas.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of a backpack including at least one baby paraphernalia retaining structure compartment; the backpack in FIG. 1 is closed with a zipper such that the retaining structure is not visible;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the backpack illustrated in FIG. 1 illustrating a front flap of a baby wipe type retaining structure partially folded down;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the backpack of FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrating the front flap in an open orientation exposing the baby wipe retaining structure;

FIG. 4 is a front view of the backpack as illustrated in FIG. 3 along with a baby wipes container within the pocket such that an opening in the container provides access to a portion of the baby wipes container where a user can access the wipes contained therein, the actual baby wipe being situated within a retaining structure window (baby wipe pocket window);

FIG. 5 is an inside view of the fold-down baby wipes pocket integrated within the front wall of the backpack for perspective, the inside of the front wall of the backpack is shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is the inside view of the fold-down baby wipes pocket with a baby wipes container held in the pocket by an elastic strap;

FIG. 7 is a front view of a vest type jacket including various baby paraphernalia holding compartments, the various compartments are closed with zippers;

FIG. 8 is the front view of the jacket illustrated in FIG. 7 with a baby wipes retaining structure zipper in an open orientation and a wipe extending therefrom;

FIG. 9 is an inside view of the jacket illustrating an alternate embodiment of a baby wipes retaining structure;

FIG. 10 is a second inside view of the jacket illustrating an integrated diaper pocket;

FIG. 11 is the inside view of the jacket illustrated in FIG. 10, illustrating a diaper being held in place in the diaper pocket;

FIG. 12 is a back view of the jacket illustrating a changing mat pocket in the back of the jacket with the two openings to the pocket closed with zippers;

FIG. 13 is the back view of the jacket as illustrated in FIG. 12, with a changing mat extending from one opening of the pocket;

FIG. 14 is the back view of the jacket as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, illustrating the changing mat removal from the pocket;

FIG. 15 is a front view of one embodiment of a baby wipe retaining structure;

FIG. 16 is a back view of the embodiment of a baby wipes retaining structure illustrated in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is the front view of a messenger bag, including a removable front flap that folds back allowing for access into the bag;

FIG. 18 is the front view of the messenger bag illustrated in FIG. 17, illustrating the front flap in an open orientation;

FIG. 19 is a front view of the messenger bag as illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18, illustrating the removable front flap of the bag partially folded down;

FIG. 20 is a back view of the messenger bag, including various straps, which are attached to the bag with hooks;

FIG. 21 is the inside view of the messenger bag looking toward the rear of the bag;

FIG. 22 is the inside view of the messenger bag, looking toward the front of the bag, illustrating the integrated baby wipes pocket in a closed position;

FIG. 23 is the inside view of the messenger bag, looking toward the front of the bag, illustrating the integrated baby wipes pocket in an open position;

FIG. 24 is the inside view of the messenger bag as illustrated in FIGS. 22-23;

FIG. 25 is a back isometric view of one example of a baby wipes retaining assembly that may be employed in various embodiments conforming to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 26-36 illustrate various alternative baby wipes container retaining structures conforming to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 37A-37F illustrate various views of a backpack conforming to aspects of the present invention; and

FIGS. 38A-38E illustrate various views of a messenger bag conforming to aspects of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments conforming to aspects of the invention involve garments and carrying bags arranged with customized pockets, compartments, or other holding structures configured to conform with paraphernalia related to the care and wellbeing of babies and toddlers, such as baby wipes containers, bottles, diapers, changing mats, etc. (baby paraphernalia).

A first embodiment conforming to aspects of the invention involves a backpack with an integrated baby wipes pocket-like retaining structure accessible through a pull down flap. The baby wipes container may be positioned within the pocket such that an opening in the container, which provides access to the wipes therein, is aligned with an aperture in the pocket. The flap covers the aperture. When closed, the flap is held shut with a hook and loop fastening arrangement, which in some arrangements cooperates with other aspects of the pocket to provide a partially airtight seal to help slow dehydration of baby wipes within the baby wipes container. Access to the baby wipes can be accomplished by pulling down on a tab on the front flap, thereby separating the hook and loop material and exposing the pocket aperture and the baby wipes. With the flap in the open position, the baby wipes are accessed through the aperture. In one example, the baby wipes are held in place in a pocket by an elastic strap that presses the container against the pocket window. The baby wipes container is slid into the pocket beneath the elastic strap from the side.

A second embodiment conforming to aspects of the invention is a messenger bag with an integrated wipes retaining structure similar to that of the first embodiment. The messenger bag, like the backpack, further contains various pockets or other retaining structures inside the bag for carrying various baby products. Further, the front flap of the messenger bag is removable, allowing for the possibility of customizing the bag by providing flaps with separate designs. The backpack, messenger bag, or other bag forms, may include a specially adapted pocket switch for diapers. Two particular bag examples are set forth herein, i.e., a backpack and a messenger bag; however, a baby wipes retaining structure or other arrangement set forth herein may be deployed in other bags in conformance with aspects of the invention.

A third embodiment conforming to aspects of the invention involves a garment, such as a jacket or vest, including integrated retaining structures specifically adapted and configured for carrying various baby products. The jacket form of the garment contains pockets sewn into the sides of the jacket for carrying baby bottles or other types of containers. The jacket also contains an integrated baby wipes pocket, such as discussed above, which can be accessed through a zipper in the front of the jacket or through a window or other aperture on the inside of the jacket. The jacket further contains a pocket on the inside of the jacket for carrying diapers. The back of the jacket includes an integrated changing mat contained in a pocket closed with a zipper. The changing mat may be removed from the pocket and used when changing a diaper. This embodiment allows for easy transportation of various baby products without the requirement of carrying said products in a bag or other container.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-6, a backpack 10 conforming to aspects of the present invention includes a front wall 12 and a rear wall 14 separated by a continuous side wall 16 and a bottom wall 18. To allow access to at least one internal storage area of the backpack, the front wall of the backpack is coupled with the continuous side wall by way of a zipper 20. The internal storage area may be segmented to provide a plurality of internal storage areas with an accompanying plurality of zippers for access, as will be illustrated with respect to the embodiment described below with respect to FIGS. 37A-37F. Shoulder straps with an accompanying plurality of zippers for access are connected with the rear wall of the backpack as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 37A. A user may wear the backpack by securing the straps over his shoulders.

A backpack conforming to aspects of the invention may further include an integrated baby wipes pocket or retaining structure 22. In one particular implementation, the baby wipes pocket is positioned behind a front flap 24 on the front wall of the backpack. Although shown in a lower front section of the backpack (opposite the rear wall) behind the flap, the integrated baby wipes retaining structure may be located at any location in the backpack and may or may not have a flap. FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate one integrated baby wipes retaining configuration employed in the backpack of FIGS. 1-6. Other baby wipes pocket retaining configurations are shown in FIGS. 25-36, as well as other figures; any of the illustrated pocket configurations may be employed in a backpack or other bag conforming to aspects of the invention.

The backpack illustrated in FIG. 1 shows the baby wipes pocket front flap up in the closed position, concealing a baby wipes container supported in the retaining structure. The bottom edge of the flap is sewn into the front wall. Access to the baby wipes pocket can be accomplished by pulling on a tab 26 attached to the baby wipes pocket front flap and pulling down, which will disconnect the front flap from a front portion 28 of the retaining structure. As shown in FIGS. 2-4 and 15, hook material 30 is sewn into the baby wipes retaining structure and loop material 32 is sewn into the flap to form a hook-and-loop fastening arrangement to secure the front flap over the pocket, or at least the front flap over the pocket opening.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 15 and 16, the baby wipes container retaining structure includes a rectangular outer base structure 34, which may be made from nylon, polyester, poly vinyl chloride, or other natural or synthetic materials, which may or may not be coated or otherwise processed for stain resistance, water proofing, etc. The base structure defines an aperture 36 generally in the center region of the base. The aperture, also referred to as a “window” herein, may be any size or shape, and is generally sized to allow access to a baby wipe holding structure 38 (e.g., a conventional soft or hard rectangular baby wipes container) secured in the retaining structure. Hook material 30 is sewn into the base structure around the aperture. A baby wipes container is shown in the pocket such that an opening 40 in the container provides access to the baby wipes in the container through the window. The back of the retaining structure includes an elastic strap 42 across the aperture 36. The strap is configured to hold the baby wipes container in the baby wipes container pocket. The pocket accepts baby wipes containers by sliding them beneath the elastic strap from the side. In one example, the strap tends to force the wipes container outwardly such that the container opening is pressed into the window.

The baby wipes container retaining structure 22 is sewn into the front side of the backpack. In one configuration, a conventional backpack configuration is modified by cutting or fabricating the front face of the pack to define an aperture. The retaining structure is then sewn into the front face in alignment with the aperture in the front face. Alternatively, the baby wipes container pocket is integrated in the bag. In such an implementation, referring again to FIGS. 15 and 16, the nylon portion 34 of the retaining structure is the front face 12 or other wall of the backpack, and the hook, strap, and window portion of the retaining structure are an integrated portion of the backpack. As such, a separate base structure 34 is not required as the pack wall forms the base structure.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate the retaining structure front flap 24 fully open, showing loop material 32 sewn into the inside of the flap and the hook material 30 of the retaining structure. The hook and loop structures may be reversed. The window 36 or other aperture in the front of the retaining structure allows for access to the baby wipes container 38 that may be placed in the pocket. In its closed position, the flap hides the baby wipes container. Moreover, the flap forms a partially airtight seal which slows the possible dehydration of the wipes within the pocket or within a container in the container opening and wipes therein are left exposed to air.

Referring to FIG. 5, the elastic strap 46 in the back of the retaining structure is shown. As mentioned above, the strap holds the baby wipes container in the retaining structure. The pocket accepts a baby wipes container by sliding it beneath the elastic strap from the side. FIG. 6 shows the baby wipes container secured behind the elastic strap. The strap tends to force the wipe container outwardly such that the wipe opening is pressed into the pocket window. As described in greater detail below with regard to FIG. 25, the elastic strap may include two portions that are releasably fastened together.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-14, a vest type jacket 48 conforming to aspects of the present invention is shown. The vest includes a front 50 and rear 52 separated by left and right sides (54, 56). The front of the jacket is separated by a main zipper 58 from a lower edge 60 of the jacket to a neck area 62 of the jacket. On the upper sides of the vest, there are left and right arm apertures 64. A jacket conforming to aspects of the invention will have sleeves extending from the apertures, but will otherwise be similar to the vest shown herein. A vest or other jacket arrangement conforming to aspects of the invention further includes various integrated retaining structures for securing baby paraphernalia. The jacket may include one or more elastic pockets 66 sewn into the side of the jacket designed to hold a baby bottle or other liquid container. The jacket may further include an integrated baby wipes retaining structure 68 accessed through a zipper and slot 70 in the front of the jacket or through an opening on the inside of the jacket. Additionally, the jacket may include a changing mat pocket 72 and a diaper pocket 74, as well as other pockets 76.

FIG. 8 shows a baby wipe 78 pulled from a container within the baby wipes pocket. FIG. 9 shows the right front side of the jacket open to illustrate the baby wipes pocket 68. The baby wipes pocket is sewn into the inside of the jacket, in this example in the inside of the right front of the jacket. The pocket includes a pocket wall 80, which may be a rectangular section of fabric, sewn or otherwise secured to the inside of the front of the pocket. The pocket wall defines an aperture 82 of sufficient size to allow a user to insert a baby wipes container through the opening and still retain the container in the pocket. In a pocket arranged to primarily support a flexible baby wipes container, the container may be folded to fit through this pocket aperture. Alternatively, the pocket has an open top 84, i.e., the wall is sewn on both sides and the bottom. The baby wipes container may then be inserted into the pocket through the open top. In one example, the aperture defines a generally elongate elliptical-like slot with the long axis of the slot arranged parallel with long sides of the rectangle. The slot allows a user to access the baby wipes within the container held in the pocket.

An outer access slot 70 is also formed in the front of the jacket adjacent the baby wipes pocket. The slot may be closed with a zipper, button, snap, or the like. The outer access slot, when open as shown in FIG. 8, allows a user to reach into the jacket to the wipes container opening exposed by way of the pocket window. The outer access slot provides an alternative way to access the baby wipes pocket without unzipping the main zipper of the jacket, which is done when accessing the wipes otherwise.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, the integrated diaper pocket 74 is shown in the inside of the left front portion of the jacket. As with other retaining structures described herein, the integrated diaper pocket may be on the inside of the right front portion, the inside of both portions, or elsewhere. The diaper pocket 74 defines a rectangular shape and includes a diaper pocket wall 86 sewn or otherwise secured along three sides (88A, B, C) of its periphery to the inside left portion of the jacket in one particular implementation. The pocket may form other shapes and may be dimensioned to any size suitable to fit at least one diaper 90 of some specified size. In one example, the rectangular shape of the pocket is sized to fit a larger diaper. A diaper, when folded, typically defines a rectangular shape. The wall may be of a nylon type material, a mesh arrangement, or any other suitable material. The wall may further include an elastic arrangement 92, such as an elastic strap along its width, arranged to firmly hold the diapers therein. The rectangular shape of the pocket may be arranged such that the long sides (88A, B) of the rectangle are generally parallel with the main zipper. The pocket may be open along its top edge 94. In one particular configuration, the top edge of the pocket may include the elastic structure 92 such that it forms a closing mechanism for the pocket. The top edge may also include a zipper, snap, button, or other closing structure; however, such closing structures are not necessary. Diapers are placed in the pocket by sliding the diaper into the pocket through the open top.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-14, a changing mat pocket 72 and associated changing mat 96 are illustrated. The changing mat pocket is accessed by vertically oriented slots 98 formed in the back 52 of the jacket 48. The slots are formed near either side of the jacket. The slots are generally arranged in a longitudinal orientation extending upward from an area near the bottom 60 of the jacket. The slots may include a zipper, snap, buttons, or other closure structures. Between the slots, an elongate rectangular pocket, shown in dashed line, is formed in the back of the jacket. The pocket includes a rectangular mesh piece 100 sewn into the back of the jacket. The mesh is sewn to the outside of both slots and transversely between the upper edges of the slots and the lower edges of the slots. A changing mat, in one particular implementation, also defines a rectangular shape. When folded in a tri-fold orientation, the changing mat is slightly smaller than the dimension of the changing mat pocket. Thus, when tri-folded, the mat 96 (shown in dash in FIG. 12) fits within the changing mat pocket. It is also possible to provide other changing mat pocket configurations and mat sizes. The changing mat is meant for supporting an infant or toddler when changing a diaper. The changing mat may or may not include a padding structure depending on any particular implementation. The changing mat may also be formed of a material that facilitates easy cleanup. A jacket may include the mat or not, depending on any particular configuration.

As discussed above, one particular jacket conforming to aspects of the invention includes a plurality of specially arranged retaining structures particularly configured to support baby paraphernalia. The retaining structures include a baby wipes container structure 68 in the front of the jacket and accessible from either a slot 70 in the front of the jacket or from the inside of the jacket, a diaper pocket 74 in the inside of the front of the jacket, and a changing mat pocket 72 in the rear of the jacket. It is possible for the jacket to include other arrangements of retaining structures and to locate the retaining structures in other locations of the jacket.

Further, it is also possible to include a baby bottle pocket 66. In one implementation, the baby bottle pockets are sewn into both sides of the vest. Each bottle pocket is rectangular and has each side edge 102A, B and the bottom edge 102C sewn to the respective side of the jacket. The top edge 102D is open so that a bottle may be placed in the pocket. The top edge may include elastic, a zipper, snaps, or other structure to secure a bottle within the pocket.

FIGS. 17-24 illustrate a messenger bag 104 arrangement conforming to aspects of the present invention. The messenger bag includes a front wall 106 and a rear wall 108 separated by a continuous side wall 110, which collectively define at least one inner containment area 112 of the bag. A front flap 114 is connected with the back wall of the bag and extends over the top of the bag to the bottom of the front of the bag. The flap covers the containment area. Along the front of the flap a zipper 116 is provided for accessing a pocket within the front flap. A first set of adjustable straps 118 is connected to the bottom of the bag near either side of the bag. An associated second set of straps 120 is connected to the bottom of the flap in alignment with the first set of straps. The straps may be connected with side release buckle arrangements 122 secured to each strap. The straps hold the flap in position and secure the flap to cover the containment area.

The front flap may be removably connected to the top of the messenger bag. In one particular implementation, the front flap 114 is removably connected to the top of the bag by way of a hook and loop arrangement 124. One familiar example of a hook and loop arrangement is Velcro™. By having a removable flap, a particular person may customize their bag by way of flaps with unique designs thereon, or replace the flap if it gets soiled. FIG. 17 illustrates the flap partially disconnected from the bag.

FIG. 18 illustrates the front of the messenger bag with the front flap 114 open exposing a baby wipes container retaining structure 126 integrated in the front 106 of the bag. A baby wipes container may be held in the retaining structure such that the wipes are accessible through the window. FIG. 19 illustrates the front of the messenger bag with the flap partially open. The retainer structure includes two strips of hook material 128 to either side of an aperture (window) 130. The flap includes corresponding strips of loop material 132 arranged to engage the hook strips. With the flap loop strips connected with the hook strips in the front, the flap forms a cover over the retainer window. It is possible to also include the hook and loop structures in other arrangements. For example, the hook strips may surround the window in a rectangular shape, and corresponding loop strips may also form a rectangle in the flap. The retaining structure may also include a separate flap. In such an arrangement, the main flap would not include the loop material; instead, the secondary flap would include the loop material. Such an arrangement would form a semi-seal around the window to slow dehydration of wipes should the container holding the wipes not have a lid. The retaining structure may include a sleeve or other arrangement to position and hold a baby wipes container so that the wipes are accessible through the window.

FIG. 20 illustrates the back 108 of the messenger bag. A shoulder strap 134 is removably connected with the top rear of the messenger bag at the left and right sides. Further, a waist strap 136 is removably connected between one of two loops 138 provided at the lower rear corners of the bag and one of two loops 138 at the upper corners of the bag. The shoulder strap may also be connected between the hooks at the upper corners of the bag.

FIG. 21 illustrates four elongate rectangular pockets 140 formed in the inside rear of the bag. The pockets may be particularly configured to hold “sippy cups,” baby bottles, or other liquid containers and other baby and toddler paraphernalia. The pockets are formed from a section of fabric sewn to the back wall of the bag along the dashed lines.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate the inside of the front of the messenger bag and particularly the baby wipes container retaining structure 126. The retaining structure includes a retaining strap 142 including a first 144 and second 146 portion. The first portion is connected with the inside front wall to one side of the window 130. The second portion is connected with the inside front wall to the other side of the window. The portions may be sewn to the front wall. The first portion includes loop material 148 secured thereon. The second portion includes a hook strip 150. To secure a baby wipes container in the containment structure, the first portion is folded over the container, and the second portion is folded over the first portion and the hook and loop structures coupling the two portions together over the container 38, as shown in FIG. 22. This retaining arrangement may also be deployed in other implementations such as the backpack.

FIG. 24 includes an alternative retaining structure 152, particularly an elastic structure 154 replaces the first and second portions of the embodiment of FIGS. 22 and 23. The elastic portion is sewn to the inside front of the bag along two sides of the window 130. A baby wipes container 38 may be slid under the elastic strap, and the elastic strap will hold the baby wipes container.

FIGS. 25-36 are rear and rear isometric views of various alternative baby wipes container retaining structures. Generally, the various alternative structures illustrate different ways to secure the container within the retaining structure such that it may be positioned so that the wipe access port of the container is positioned in the retaining structure window. These various alternative structures may be integrated, such as by sewing, gluing, etc., into backpacks, messenger bags, jackets, etc., in conformance with various aspects of the invention.

FIG. 25 illustrates a retaining structure similar to that discussed with respect to the messenger bag implementation. The retaining structure 156 includes a rectangular main section 158 defining a window 160. The main section may be any suitable shape to secure to a backpack, etc., and the window may also be any suitable shape to facilitate access to baby wipes within a baby wipes container within the retaining structure. A first flap 162 is sewn to one side edge of the main section and a second flap 164 is secured to a second edge of the main section. The flaps include cooperative components of a hook and loop fastening arrangement 182 or other type of fastening arrangement, such as buckles, snaps, a zipper, etc., and are positioned to connect and secure a baby wipes container.

FIGS. 26 and 27 each illustrate a retaining structure 170, 172 with a rectangular body 174 similar to that illustrated in FIG. 25 and others. To secure a baby wipes container, the retaining structure includes two straps 176,178, arranged across the width of the main body (FIG. 26) or across the length of the main body (FIG. 27). Each strap is fastened to the main body along one side. An eyelet 180, buckle or other structure is secured to the main body along the opposing edge. The eyelet receives the strap. The strap also includes a hook and loop fastening arrangement 182 positioned on the strap so that when it is positioned in the eyelet, the strap may be folded back and restrained across a baby container positioned under the straps.

FIG. 28 illustrates a retaining structure 184 substantially similar to that illustrated in FIG. 25, with the exception that the flaps 186, 188 are sewn into the top edge and bottom edge, respectively, of the main body 190. The flaps are then positioned to close across the longer length portion of the rectangular main structure rather than across the shorter width portion of the main body as in FIG. 25.

FIGS. 29, 31, and 34 illustrate baby wipes container structures 186,188,190 respectively, employing one or more elastic cords 192 to secure a baby wipes container. The embodiment of FIG. 29 illustrates three separate elastic cords that may be stretched laterally across the rear of the container structure. The elastic cords may be stretched to secure differently sized containers. The embodiment of FIG. 34 is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 29 except that a pair of elastic cords is arranged latitudinally and a pair is arranged longitudinally. The embodiment of FIG. 31 illustrates a single cord interleaved or laced across the container structure. Ends of the elastic cords are adjacently situated and a buckle or clip 194 may be employed to facilitate loosening or tightening of the cord to fit differently sized containers. The embodiment of FIG. 31 may also use a non-elastic cord as the buckle can be used to allow for differently sized containers. These embodiments are well suited, as are other embodiments, for securing different sized baby wipes containers. For example, baby wipes container structures often have a depth that is a function of the number of wipes held therein. As such, a baby wipes container that is sold with 50 wipes will be shallower than one sold with 100 wipes, and so on. The adjustable straps are suitable for securing differently dimensioned containers.

FIGS. 30 and 36 are embodiments of a retaining structure (196, 198) similar to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 25. In the embodiment of FIG. 36, the first and second portions are arranged to close longitudinally rather than latitudinally as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 23, 25, and 30. FIGS. 32 and 35 are embodiments of a retaining structure similar to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16. Finally, FIG. 33 illustrates a pocket 200 sewn to the back of the retaining structure. The pocket includes a rectangular sheet of nylon or other material sewn to three sides of the retaining structure and with an open end. The wipes container may be slid into the open end and held within the pocket. The sheet may also be an elastic material to allow for differently sized containers to fit within the pocket.

FIGS. 37A-37F illustrate one particular backpack implementation conforming to aspects of the present invention. The implementation set forth in FIGS. 37A-37F includes a baby wipes container retaining structure 22 as discussed above with regard to the implementation of FIGS. 1-6. The backpack set forth in FIGS. 37A-37F includes several utility pockets and internal storage areas. As best shown in FIGS. 37A and 37E, a diaper storage area 202 is defined in the upper rear section of the backpack. The diaper storage area is defined by a piece of material 204 sewn to a continuous side wall 206 of the backpack. A zippered slot 208 is provided in the continuous side wall, along the top portion of the backpack, to provide access to the diaper storage pocket. Thus, the continuous side wall and the piece of material provide the walls of the pocket.

A second zipper 210, along the majority of the length of the continuous side wall, provides access to an internal storage area 212. The internal storage area shares the back wall of the backpack, and is generally situated below the diaper pocket. FIG. 37B illustrates a second internal storage area 214 accessible from the front flap, which is secured to the continuous side wall by a third zipper. The second internal storage area includes two mesh pockets, and a third mesh pocket behind the two mesh pockets. Finally, FIG. 37C illustrates a third internal storage area 216 situated between the first and second internal storage areas. The third internal storage area also includes a pair of mesh pockets.

FIGS. 38A-38E illustrate one particular messenger bag implementation conforming to aspects of the invention. The messenger bag has a baby wipes container structure 126 as set forth with respect to the messenger bag implementation of FIGS. 17-20. Additionally, the drawings illustrate various other pockets and internal storage areas that may be provided in a messenger bag conforming to aspects of the invention. For example, FIG. 38A illustrates a magazine pocket 218 in the front flap 114. FIG. 38B illustrates two bottle pockets 220 integrated into the side wall of the messenger bag. FIG. 38C illustrates a mat pocket 222 in the rear of the messenger bag. The mat pocket, in this example, is slightly smaller than the overall rear of the messenger bag. FIGS. 38D and 38E illustrate many of the different internal pockets that may be provided in a messenger bag conforming to aspects of the invention.

Various embodiments and aspects of embodiments of the invention are described herein, and some embodiments are particularly described as being fabricated with a specific material, such as nylon. It is also possible to fabricate various embodiments with polyester, polyvinyl chloride, cotton, as well as other suitable natural, blended, and synthetic materials. It is also possible to coat or otherwise process the materials with chemicals and treatments intended for stain resistance, waterproofing, wind resistance, etc. Some embodiments employ hook and loop fasteners, zippers, buckles and the like. It is also possible to employ other fastening arrangements, such as snaps, buttons, clips, etc., or rearrange the illustrated fastening arrangements.

All directional references (e.g., upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the invention unless specifically set forth in the claims. Joinder references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other.

In some instances, components are described with reference to “ends” having a particular characteristic and/or being connected to another part. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to components which terminate immediately beyond their points of connection with other parts. Thus, the term “end” should be interpreted broadly, in a manner that includes areas adjacent, rearward, forward of, or otherwise near the terminus of a particular element, link, component, member or the like. In methodologies directly or indirectly set forth herein, various steps and operations are described in one possible order of operation, but those skilled in the art will recognize that steps and operations may be rearranged, replaced, or eliminated without necessarily departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Various electrical connections are illustrated in various embodiments herein. However, the claims should not be construed to require any electrical connection require a direct connection, as it is contemplated that transmission of a signal, data, or provision of other electrical requirements may be achieved through a direct connection as well as communication through intermediate components, through a transmission medium, wirelessly, with analog or digital signals, etc. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A bag comprising:

a retaining structure adapted to secure a baby wipes container, the retaining structure comprising: a portion of fabric defining a slot; and at least one retaining portion of fabric positioned across the slot.

2. The bag of claim 1 wherein the portion of fabric defines a substantially rectangular portion of fabric.

3. The bag of claim 2 wherein the substantially rectangular portion of fabric is coupled with a portion of the bag.

4. The bag of claim 3 wherein the substantially rectangular portion of fabric is coupled with a portion of the bag such that the slot is aligned with a second slot in the portion of the bag.

5. The bag of claim 1 wherein the portion of the fabric defining a slot is an integral portion of the bag.

6. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least one retaining portion defines an elastic rectangular piece of fabric coupled with the portion of fabric to either side of the slot.

7. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least one retaining portion includes a first retaining fabric member coupled with the portion of fabric defining a slot to one side of the slot, the at least one retaining portion further includes a second retaining member coupled with the portion of fabric defining a slot on another side of the slot.

8. The bag of claim 7 wherein the first retaining fabric member includes a first coupling member and the second retaining fabric member includes a second coupling member adapted to releasably engage the first coupling member.

9. The bag of claim 8 wherein the first coupling member includes hook material and the second coupling member includes loop material, the hook material and loop material adapted to releasably connect in a hook and loop coupling arrangement.

9. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least one retaining portion of fabric includes at least one first strap with a first coupling member connected to the portion of fabric defining a slot to one side of the slot, and further includes at least one second strap with a second coupling member connected to the portion of the fabric defining a slot to another side of the slot, the first and second coupling members adapted to releasably connect.

10. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least one retaining portion of fabric includes a lacing arrangement in engagement with a plurality of eyelets fastened to the portion of fabric defining a slot.

11. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least one retaining portion of fabric includes at least one elastic cord coupled with the at least one portion of fabric defining a slot.

12. The bag of claim 1 wherein the at least one retaining portion of fabric is secured to the portion of fabric defining a slot along three sides of the slot to define a container pocket.

13. The bag of claim 1 wherein the bag is selected from the group comprising a backpack, a messenger bag, a briefcase, a roller bag, a suitcase, a garment bag, and a purse.

14. The bag of claim 1 wherein the bag is a backpack having a first side wall and second side wall, the backpack further including a diaper pocket comprising a bottom member extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, and a top member having an access slot to the diaper pocket.

15. The bag of claim 12 wherein the top member is a fabric panel defining at least a portion of a top of the backpack.

16. The bag of claim 12 further comprising a zipper operably connected with the access slot.

17. The bag of claim 1 further comprising:

a baby wipes container secured between the at least one retaining portion of fabric and the portion of fabric defining a slot such that an access slot in the baby wipes container is aligned with the slot.

18. The bag of claim 1 wherein the bag is a messenger bag, the messenger bag further comprising:

a disconnectable front flap.

19. The bag of claim 18, the removable front flap including a pocket.

20. The bag of claim 19, the removable front flap including a section of hook and loop fastening material, the bag including a cooperating section of hook and loop fastening material to facilitate disconnection of the front flap from the bag.

21. A garment comprising:

a baby wipes container pocket comprising: a fabric panel secured to an inner portion of the garment, the fabric panel defining a slot oriented to provide access to a baby wipes container placed within the baby wipes container pocket.

22. The garment of claim 21 wherein the fabric panel is substantially rectangular and is secured to a portion of the garment along three sides.

23. The garment of claim 21 wherein the substantially rectangular fabric panel is dimensioned and secured to the portion of the garment along three sides such that an access slot in a baby wipes container is aligned with the slot when the baby wipes container is placed in the baby wipes container pocket.

24. The garment of claim 21 wherein the baby wipes container pocket further comprises a slot between an outer surface of the garment and the baby wipes container pocket.

25. The garment of claim 24 wherein the baby wipes container pocket further comprises a zippered slot between an outer surface of the garment and the baby wipes container pocket.

26. The garment of claim 21 further comprising:

a baby changing mat pocket particularly dimensioned to receive a baby changing mat, the baby changing mat pocket comprising: a second fabric panel secured to an inner portion of the garment; and an access slot in the garment, the access slot dimensioned and oriented to allow a user to insert the baby mat within the baby changing mat pocket.

27. The garment of claim 26 wherein the baby changing mat pocket further includes the baby changing mat.

28. The garment of claim 27 wherein the baby changing mat pocket further includes a zipper operably associated with the access slot.

29. The garment of claim 28 wherein the baby changing mat pocket further comprises a second access slot in the garment.

30. The garment of claim 29 wherein the first access slot and the second access slot are each vertically oriented on the garment and separated by a first distance.

31. The garment of claim 30 wherein the second fabric panel is substantially rectangular and is sewn to the garment along its four sides, the separation between two sides being a second distance that is greater than the first distance between the first access slot and the second access slot.

32. The garment of claim 31 further comprising:

a diaper pocket configured and dimensioned to hold at least one diaper, the diaper pocket comprising: a third fabric panel secured to an inner portion of the garment such that there is an opening to deposit a diaper in the pocket.

33. The garment of claim 32 further comprising at least one bottle pocket, the at least one bottle pocket comprising a fourth fabric panel secured to an outside surface of the garment such that there is an opening to receive a bottle.