Pet carrier with wheels

Abstract

A pet bag includes a telescoping handle mounted to the back side panel of the bag by means of a bracket with one extending along the bottom edge of the carrier bag and a bracket near the upper side of the back side panel. The back side panel also includes an assembly of reinforcing webs that cooperate with first and second spaced tubes comprising the telescoping handle for receipt of a seat belt to retain the carrier bag in the event of a sudden stop.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This is a continuation in part application of Ser. No. 11/403,430, filed Apr. 13, 2006, entitled “Pet Carrier with Wheels”, which is a Continuation in Part of Ser. No. 11/340,303, filed Jan. 26, 2006, entitled, “Collapsible Storage and Carrying Case”, which is a continuation in part of Ser. No. 11/117,100 filed Apr. 28, 2005, entitled “Collapsible Storage and Carrying Case”, which is a continuation application of Ser. No. 10/393,329 filed Mar. 20, 2003 entitled “Collapsible Storage and Carrying Case”, which is a continuation in part of Ser. No. 09/968,360 filed Oct. 1, 2001 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,550,592) entitled, Collapsible Storage and Carrying Case, all for which priority is claimed and all of which are incorporated herewith by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In a principal aspect, the present invention relates to a class of luggage items, bags, and containers, wherein the luggage item, bag or container is generally comprised of flexible material such as fabric, canvas or leather and further wherein the item, container or bag includes a telescoping handle, wheels and may include a removable, supplemental, reinforcing bottom plate for maintaining the shape and general configuration of the flexible bag or may include a generally rigid bottom panel or a flexible bottom panel incorporating elements that facilitate maintaining the form, shape or configuration of the bottom panel.

Use of a flexible bag, container or luggage item is often preferred inasmuch as such items are more easily stored because often they can be folded or made compact when not in use. Additionally, such items are typically lighter in weight. Also, because soft-sided luggage items, containers or bags have flexible sides, they may be used to hold and transport uniquely shaped items that could not be easily placed and stored in a hard-sided luggage item or container. Further, flexible bags are often more economical to manufacture and easier to move or transport. Additionally, bags of this type are often used to transport a pet. As such, bags of this type may be constructed to cooperate with a vehicle seat belt to restrain the bag or pet carrier.

Despite their many desirable characteristics, flexible containers, bags or luggage items are often difficult to construct with a telescoping handle and wheels which facilitate ease of transport, particularly when the luggage item, container or bag is large. Thus, there has developed a need to provide flexible or soft-sided luggage items, containers or bags which have certain characteristics typically associated with hard-sided luggage, including the characteristic of being susceptible to incorporation of a telescoping handle and transport wheels. Additionally, such luggage items desirably include designs which facilitate their packaging for display and/or shipment. Finally, when such bags or luggage items are to be used for transport of a pet, the bag construction must necessarily be adequately sturdy to insure that when held by a seat belt in a vehicle, the integrity of the bag will be maintained upon being subjected to the stress of forces placed upon it in the event of a sudden stop or crash.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly, the present invention comprises in one embodiment a collapsible luggage item made from a flexible bag with a back side panel and a flexible bottom panel which enables compaction for storage when not in use. A telescoping handle is affixed to the back side panel of the bag and more particularly to a rigid bracket positioned at the juncture of the flexible side and bottom panels. The flexible bottom panel of the bag is designed to incorporate a removable, supplemental, rigid bottom panel or plate. The supplemental bottom panel or plate is capable of slidably engaging the rigid bracket member positioned at the juncture of the flexible side panel and the flexible bottom panel. When engaged, The rigid, supplemental bottom panel provides a means to reinforce and maintain the flexible bottom panel when fully open or not compacted to thereby facilitate maintenance of the full shape of the container, luggage item, or bag for use to pack and store items. The supplemental, rigid, attachable and detachable bottom panel may easily be stored within the bag or container when not in use, yet may be easily attached to the flexible bottom panel and rigid bracket when the luggage item is to be used.

Various embodiments are depicted including an embodiment for carriage of tools, an embodiment comprising an insulated cooler, an embodiment which incorporates an internal frame that may be incorporated with the flexible side panel, an embodiment that serves as a pet carrier, car seat, backpack and pet bed, as well as other alternative embodiments.

A derivative embodiment is useful as a pet carrier and includes a base panel, a back side panel with a telescoping handle, an enclosure formed by generally flexible side panels and a generally detachable front and top side panel that may be partially detached to enable multiple such carriers to be nested together for packaging, storage or shipment. The nesting carriers may be combined in various ways for packaging and when unpacked provide a wheeled pet carrier with mesh panels for access of air to a pet housed within the carrier.

Further, the pet carrier embodiment may include design features which enable cooperation with and retention by a vehicle seat belt. The seat belt retention feature includes supplemental reinforcement webbing on a back side panel of the bag or carrier positioned to instill placement of a seat belt through the webbing and behind the vertical tubes compromising the telescoping handle assembly. In addition, the system for attaching the telescoping handle assembly to the back panel of the bag is reinforced, and the front side panel also includes a reinforced webbing array in combination with a mesh to retain and cushion and animal within the bag that is jostled by a sudden stop or an impact of the vehicle. The embodiment therefore may not be conducive to nesting of multiple carriers.

Thus, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved flexible bag which includes a telescoping handle and a supplemental or ancillary, rigid or stiff bottom panel cooperative with a bracket that supports the telescoping handle.

It is a further object of the invention to provide an improved flexible bag construction which has multiple embodiments including an embodiment as a tool carrier, an insulated container, a duffel bag, a pet carrier or a golf bag, among others.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide an inexpensive, rugged, easily stored, yet easily assembled soft-sided flexible luggage item, container or bag.

An additional object of the invention is to provide a ventilated pet carrier having a telescoping handle, transport wheels and the capability of nested assembly with other like carriers.

Another object of the invention is to provide a pet carrier which may be engaged by a seat belt for retention in a seat of a vehicle even when subjected to a sudden stop or impact.

These and other objects, advantages and features of the invention will be set forth in the detailed description which follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

In the detailed description which follows, reference will be made to the drawing comprised of the following figures:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a first embodiment of a bag designed specifically for carrying tools;

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the bag of FIG. 1 as viewed from the back side or opposite side depicted in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an exploded isometric view of the bag of FIG. 1 as viewed from the underside or bottom side thereof depicting a rigid supplemental or auxiliary bottom panel or plate which is used to maintain the configuration of the bag when it is assembled and ready for use;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a second embodiment of the invention useful as a tool or implement holder and incorporating a telescoping handle, wheels and a supplemental bottom panel to maintain the shape or configuration of the container or bag;

FIG. 5 is an exploded isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 4 depicting the assembly of the supplemental or ancillary or auxiliary bottom panel with the container or bag;

FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric view of the bag of FIG. 4 depicting the manner of assembly of an internal frame which is used in combination with the flexible bag comprising the container;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of the frame used in the construction depicted in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a duffel bag which incorporates a rigid supplemental or ancillary or auxiliary bottom panel in combination with a telescoping handle;

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a golf bag or sport carrying case which incorporates features of the invention;

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the invention depicting an insulating bag in a collapsed condition;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a rigid, supplemental bottom panel utilized in combination with the collapsed bag of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is an exploded isometric view of the bag of FIG. 10 and the rigid, supplemental rigid bottom panel or plate;

FIG. 13 is an isometric view depicting the placement of the rigid, supplemental bottom plate for the bag of FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is another isometric view of the bottom side of the bag of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of the bag of FIG. 10 in the fully expanded condition;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view depicting the interior configuration and arrangement in the bag of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of alternative embodiment of the invention which is especially designed for use as a pet or animal carrier;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 further including a construction which maintains and facilitates maintenance of the configuration of the flexible bag;

FIG. 19 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 illustrating the manner of attachment of the supplemental bottom panel which is a rigid panel to the flexible bottom panel of the flexible bag;

FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the first side panel of the embodiment of FIG. 17 illustrating the telescoping handle and supplemental carrying straps which enable utilization of the bag as a backpack;

FIG. 21 is an isometric view of the first side of the backpack configuration shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 illustrates a further feature of the construction of the backpack version of the bag;

FIG. 23 illustrates yet a further feature of the backpack animal carrier version of the bag;

FIG. 24 is a front side isometric view of an embodiment of a luggage item for carrying pets;

FIG. 25 is a back side isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a front side isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 24 wherein the front flap of the enclosure is open;

FIG. 27 is a back side isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 24 illustrating the incorporation of an animal leash;

FIG. 28 is an exploded isometric view illustrating the construction of the animal restraint leash of FIG. 24;

FIG. 29 is an isometric view of a multiple number of the embodiment of FIG. 24 in a stacked configuration for storage or shipment;

FIG. 30 is an isometric view illustrating an alternative stacking arrangement for embodiments of the type shown in FIG. 24;

FIG. 31 is an isometric view illustrating a further alternative embodiment of the invention wherein the carrier is designed as a pet carrier which is cooperative with a seat belt of a vehicle;

FIG. 32 is an isometric view of the backside of the carrier of FIG. 31 depicting the position of a seat belt engaged with and cooperative with the carrier;

FIG. 33 is an isometric view illustrating the manner in which a bracket for attaching a telescoping handle assembly is fastened to the back side panel of the carrier of FIG. 31;

FIG. 34 is a front side elevation of a carrier of FIG. 33; and

FIG. 35 is an alternative view of the construction for fastening a bracket to the teleoscoping tubes comprising the telescoping handle for the carrier of the embodiment of FIG. 31.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 illustrate a first embodiment of the invention as incorporated in a wide mouth tool bag. The bag is fabricated from leather, canvas, or other flexible fabric and includes a front side 20, a back side 22, a first lateral side 24 and a second lateral side 26. External pouches or pockets such as pockets 28 and 30 are provided on the outside face of front side 20, for example. Lateral side 24 also includes flexible pockets or pouches 32 and 34. Typically, the pouches or pockets 28, 30, 32 and 34 are formed from flexible material with folds and an open top so that the pockets or pouches are expandable for support and retention of tools or the like.

The embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 further includes a top opening 41 with a zipper 40 for access to the interior of the bag. The lateral sides 24 and 26 are folded adjacent the top zipper opening 41 and when the zipper 40 is open, then the access to the interior of the bag is a wide mouth opening. A first handle 42 and a second handle 44 are stitched to the opposite panel sides 20 and 22 and are joined by means of a handle grip member 46. The handle grip member 46 may be released so that the handles 42 and 44 are no longer connected or joined thereby enhancing access to the interior of the bag. Auxiliary carrying strap 18 may also be stitched to the bag and more particularly, to the front panel 20 and back panel 22. The construction of the bag so far described is generally typical of soft-sided wide mouth carrying bags.

The invention relates particularly to the combination of a telescoping handle, wheels, and a rigid, supplemental or ancillary bottom plate which together enable the bag to be provided with structural integrity, yet when the auxiliary bottom panel is removed, permits the bag to be folded or compacted for ease of storage, transport or the like.

Thus, the bag includes a telescoping handle 50 which has, or includes, first and second spaced telescoping bars or rods 52 and 54 connected by handle member 56. The telescoping bars or rods 52 and 54 comprise a series of sections which telescope into vertical housings 60 and 62 mounted on a cross bracket 64 adjacent a connection or junction 66 between back panel 22 and a bottom panel 23. The juncture 66 thus defines the transition between back panel 22 and bottom panel 23. The bracket 64 accommodates a first wheel 68 and a second wheel 70 spaced apart one from each other at the juncture 66. With this construction, the telescoping handle 50 may be expanded to enable carriage or transport of the bag on the wheels of 68, 70. In the embodiment depicted, the telescoping handle 50 fits or is retained by means of a panel 80 forming a portion of a pouch on the side 22 of the bag. The telescoping handle 50 stiffens or renders generally rigid at least a portion of the back side 22. The bracket 64 reinforces or renders rigid the juncture 66.

The bracket 64 includes a horizontally extending section 82 which is fastened to the flexible bottom panel 23. The section 82 extends from the juncture 66 forwardly for approximately 1-3 inches and is preferably made from a rigid material such as a molded plastic material. The rigid partial panel or section 82 includes a first pocket or receptacle 90 and a second space pocket or receptacle 92 which will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

As depicted in FIG. 3, an auxiliary or supplemental, rigid, flat planar generally rectangular bottom plate 96 is provided to cooperate with the bottom panel 23 and the bracket 64. More specifically, the supplemental bottom panel 96 includes a molded plastic foot construction 98 with a first molded foot 100 and a second spaced molded foot 102 attached together by means of a cross bar 104. Extending transversely from the feet 100 and 102 are bayonet members 109 and 111. The bayonet members 109 and 111 include leading prongs which fit into the pockets or receptacles 90 and 92, respectively, and are retained therein by or as a result of a fastening hook and loop mechanism including the loop strip 110 and strip 112 on the bottom side 23 of the bag or container. Compatible with the loop strip 110 and 112 are similar aligned hook strips 114 and 116. Engaging the hook and loop mechanism (typically Velcro fastener) can be accomplished by sliding the bayonet connections or members 109 and 111 into their respective pockets 90 and 92. The bottom panel 96 thus is retained in a fixed or locked configuration by means of a fastening means, i.e., strips 110, 112, 114 and 116.

In this manner, the auxiliary plate or member 96 may be easily removed from engagement with the bag or attached thereto and retained to provide a means for stiffening the bottom panel 23. However, the rigid supplemental or ancillary bottom panel 96 may be easily removed as necessary by disengaging the hook and loop fasteners 110, 112, 114, 116 and sliding the bayonet connections 109, 111 from engagement with the pockets 90, 92. With the described construction, therefore, the bottom panel 96 renders rigid and thus supports the flexible bag and its contents. By helping to form or shape the bag, it is possible to more efficiently store materials in the bag. Further, because the bag is made more rigid, the utilization of a telescoping handle and wheels associated therewith is rendered possible and more functional. The internal contents of the bag may also be more easily contained and accessed with such a construction.

FIGS. 4-7 illustrate an alternative embodiment. The embodiment of FIGS. 4-7 is directed to a construction wherein a tool carrier is comprised of, and has the form of, an open top bag which is fitted over a frame. Referring to the Figures, the container or bag includes an outside circumferential panel 120, which is made from a flexible material such as canvas or fabric, and a flexible bottom panel 122. The bottom panel 122 is joined to the side panel 120 along a seam, juncture or junction 124. In a manner similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, the bottom juncture 124 receives a bracket 126 which supports wheels 128 and 130 as well as a transverse generally horizontal flat planar, supplemental and removable rigid bottom plate 132. The bottom plate 132 supports bracket 126 to which a telescoping handle 134 is attached in a fashion similar to that as depicted in embodiment of FIGS. 1-3. Also attached or affixed to the bottom 122 is a hook and loop fastener mechanism 137. The fastener mechanism 137 is spaced from the bracket 126. The bracket 126 includes a first pocket 136 and a second pocket 138 which are adapted to receive bayonet projections 140 and 142, respectively, affixed to the outside face 144 of a supplemental or ancillary bottom plate 146. The bayonet connectors 140 and 142 are part of a foot bracket 148 which is affixed to the outside face 144 of the plate 146. The foot bracket 148 includes a cross member 150 and a first foot 152 as well as a second spaced foot 154 attached thereto. The bayonet members 140 and 142 fit into the pockets 136 and 138, respectively and are retained thereby by the fastening means (strip) 137 which works in combination with a fastening means (strip) 135 on the inside surface of the plate 146. In this manner, the bottom panel 122 of the embodiment of FIGS. 4-7 is made rigid or reinforced.

The embodiment further includes, as depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7, an internal side panel flap 170 which is stitched to, or joined to, the outside panel 120 along a top edge 171 of the panel 120. A frame is comprised of a first or top ring member 172, a second lower closed loop frame member 174 and connecting, longitudinal members 176, 178, 180 and 182. The frame members 176, 178, 180 and 182 may all be assembled by being snap fitted into brackets such as bracket 184 associated with ring member 172 and bracket connecting member 178. The ring members 172, 174 and longitudinal members 176, 178, 180, 182 thus are used to form a frame which fits on the inside of the passage or opening defined by the fabric panels 120 and 170 as depicted in FIG. 6. Thereafter, the panel 170 may be folded downwardly from the top edge 171 over the frame so as to form an open container or bucket with panels of the type depicted in FIG. 4. FIG. 7 illustrates in greater detail the assembly of the frame comprising the rings 172 and 174 as well as the bracket or longitudinal brace members 178, 180, 176, and 182. In a preferred embodiment, all of the members are snap fitted together. The ring member, such as ring member 172, may be made from a flexible plastic material which is joined to form a loop by means of a fastener or brace 190. Ring 174 may be assembled or fashioned in the same manner. The formed container may include various storage pouches of the type illustrated in FIG. 4 along with a carrying strap, such as strap 192, again illustrated in FIG. 4.

With the embodiment of FIGS. 4-7, a telescoping handle 134 is provided and engages against and provides a stiffening component with respect to the enclosed fabric panel 120. Additionally, the supplemental or auxiliary bottom plate 146 in combination with the bracket 126 and the telescoping handle 134 provide a means for reinforcing or providing shape to the open topped container illustrated in FIGS. 4-7. The construction of the wheels 128 and 130 in combination with the feet 152 and 154 provide that the assembled components will maintain the contents of the bag or container in a level condition. This is based on a diameter and sizing of the wheels 128, 130, as well as the size of feet 152 and 154. The lower panel 146 is retained in position by virtue of the engagement of the bayonet connectors 140 and 142 held by the fasteners 136 and 138 in their appropriate position.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate additional items or products which may incorporate the features of the invention. FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a duffel bag which is comprised of a flexible fabric, leather, or the like in most instances. Duffel bag 200 includes a telescoping handle 202 and wheels 204 as well as a removable, rigid bottom plate or panel (not shown) with feet 207 to support the duffel. Note that the opening to the duffel bag in this circumstance is on the side of the bag, or in other words, in the side panel.

FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of the invention as incorporated in a golf bag. The golf bag of FIG. 9 may comprise a construction similar to that shown in FIGS. 4-7 wherein the bag is formed on frame members (not shown) which cooperate with the side panels 93 forming the bag. A telescoping handle 95, wheels 97 and a stiffening auxiliary or supplemental bottom panel are also provided.

FIGS. 10 through 16 illustrate another alternative embodiment of the invention. A collapsible bag 201, when expanded has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. Thus, bag 201 includes a front panel 202 and a first collapsed side panel 204 in opposition to a second, collapsed, side panel (not shown in FIG. 10). The collapsed bag 201 further includes a back panel 206 and a collapsed bottom panel 208. A rigid bracket 210 is provided at the junction or connection of the front panel 202 to the bottom panel 208. The bracket 210 supports wheels 212 and 214 as well as a stiff or rigid bracket plate 216 that fits over a small section of the compacted bottom panel 208. The bracket 210 further includes and supports a telescoping handle 218 shown in FIG. 15. Further, the bracket 210 includes a first prong reception pocket 220 and a second prong reception pocket 222 formed on the bracket 210. A foam or light plastic cleat 224 includes prongs (not shown) that fit within the bracket pockets, passages, or openings 220 and 222. In this manner, the bag 201 may be displayed and supported vertically upright by the wheels 212 and 214 as well as the cleat 224.

As shown in FIG. 11, a bottom panel 230 comprises a rigid, supplemental generally rectangular plate with a hook and loop fastener 232 along the outer edge thereof and with a foot assembly 234 attached to the bottom side thereof. The foot assembly 234 includes first and second horizontal prongs 236 and 238. The prongs 236 and 238 engage with or slide into the pockets 220 and 222, respectively, as depicted in FIG. 12. Then as depicted in FIG. 13, the side 204 and the opposite side (not numbered) of the bag 201 may be expanded as may be the bottom side 208 of the bag. The plate, 230 may then be positioned as shown with the prongs 236 and 238 within the openings or passages 220 and 222. A flap 240, with a hook and loop fastener 242, may then be folded over and engage the hook and loop fastener 232 of panel or plate 230. This will hold the bottom plate 230 tightly in position thereby forming the bottom 208 of the bag 201. The flap 240 thus is stitched to or attached to the front panel 202 of the bag 201. The flap 240 thus will fold over and hold the rigid plate 230 in position tightly against bottom panel 208 as depicted in FIG. 14.

The foot assembly 234 includes a first foot 244 and a laterally spaced second foot 246 which facilitate support of the bag 201 in a level condition inasmuch as the foot 244 and 246 are aligned support the bag 201 along with the wheels 212 and 214. Thus, the rigid supplemental plate or bottom panel 230 provides a multiplicity of functions. It renders the bottom of the bag 201 rigid and maintains the shape of the bottom of the bag. It engages the bracket 210 and in combination therewith provides a means for maintaining the bag 201 in a level supported condition. The panel or plate 230 when removed permits compaction of the bag or case 200 for ease of storage and transport as well as to facilitate display. In this regard, the openings or bracket passages 220 and 222 have a duel function of providing a temporary support for cleat 224 as well as cooperating with the rigid plate 230.

FIG. 15 depicts the manner in which the bag 201 is supported by means of the wheels 212, 214 and the plate 230. FIG. 16 illustrates in further detail the interior of the bag 201. The bag is a wide mouth bag similar to the bag depicted in FIG. 1, for example.

FIGS. 17-23 illustrate yet a further embodiment of the invention which is especially useful as a pet or animal carrier. The embodiment includes a flexible bag 300 having a generally flexible bottom panel 302 with a dual wheel assembly 304 affixed to the flexible bottom panel 302 and to the first side panel 306 as depicted, for example, in FIG. 20. A rigid plate supplemental bottom wall panel 308 includes first and second spaced bayonet members 310 and 312 which are cooperative with receptacles 314 and 316, respectively, in bottom panel 302 to hold the plate 308 in position against the flexible bottom on bottom panel 302 of the bag 300. A strip of fastening material 318 is provided along upper edge 320 of the panel 308. The fastening material 318 cooperates with a fastening band 322 as illustrated in FIG. 19 as well as in FIG. 18 to retain the supplemental bottom panel 308 in position, again as illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19.

The flexible bottom side panel 302 is connected to the flexible front side panel 324. In the preferred embodiment of the example of FIGS. 17-23, the second or front side panel 324 includes a first mesh panel 326 and a second mesh panel 328. The mesh panels 326 and 328 are attached to front panel 324 by means of a zipper mechanism 330 and 332, respectively, thereby enabling at least partial opening of the panels 326 and/or 328 for access through front panel 324 to the interior of the bag.

A wire loop or other rigid member 334 may be inserted into a pouch 336 also attached to and forming a part of the front side or front panel 324. The wire loop or reinforcing member 334 extends for the full distance between lateral sides 340 and 342 of the front panel 324 thereby providing for a means to maintain the form and shape of the bag particularly when the supplemental rigid bottom panel 308 is in position as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 18. The embodiment of the figures is especially useful as an animal carrier inasmuch as the mesh panel 328, for example, may be opened and a pet or animal placed within the carrier. The mesh penal 328 may then be closed to retain the animal in position or alternatively partially opened so that the animal may have access to the exterior of the bag.

The first side panel, or in other words the back panel, 306 of the embodiment includes a strap assembly which is useful for carrying of the bag in the form of a backpack. Referring to the figures, therefore, and in particular FIGS. 20-23, the back side panel 306 includes a pouch 350 into which a first adjustable length strap 352 and a second adjustable second strap 354 are inserted. The straps 352 and 354 extend from or adjacent the top of the back side panel 306 to the lower edge 356 of the bag. The straps 252 and 254 may be attached at any convenient place adjacent the lower edge or side 356 of the bag. In this manner as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 22, the straps 352 and 354 may be fully removed from the pouch 350 and adjusted in length so that that the backpack may be carried in the manner of a traditional backpack with an animal retained therein and having access through the mesh panel 328 previously described. Alternatively of course, the telescoping handle 360 may be extended and the wheels 362 and 364 relied upon as an alternative mode of transport of the animal carrier/backpack.

As a further feature of the embodiment of FIGS. 17-23, auxiliary vertical straps 370 and 372 are attached to the back side panel 306. The straps 370 and 372 define loops through which a seatbelt 374 may be passed. In this manner the bag can be placed in a vehicle and retained in a desired and appropriate orientation and position with an animal housed therein and safely maintained and retained by virtue of the utilization of a seatbelt. When used as described in this particular mode and as depicted in FIG. 21, the straps 352 and 354 are fully placed within the pouch 350. Thus, the embodiment of FIGS. 17-23 may be utilized as an animal carrier, movable by the use of the telescoping handle and wheels. It may be utilized as a carrier having a backpack feature. Finally it may be utilized for retention of the bag in the environment of an automobile for purposes of travel wherein it is retained by a seatbelt to provide for enhanced safety of the animal retained within the bag.

FIGS. 24-30 illustrate a further embodiment of the invention in the form of a pet carrier. The disclosed embodiment of FIGS. 24-30 is designed to accommodate packaging of the pet carriers by stacking or otherwise combining the carriers. Further, the described embodiment may incorporate an animal leash.

Thus, referring to FIGS. 24-30, the wheeled pet carrier includes a back side panel 1200 which has a generally rectangular configuration. A telescoping handle assembly 1202 is affixed to, or otherwise incorporated with, the backside panel 1200. The telescoping handle assembly 1202 includes a dual wheel assembly 1204 which is positioned or attached to or adjacent lower edge 1206 of the back side panel 1200. The pet carrier further includes a generally rigid bottom panel 1208 or flexible fabric covered panel with a support grid 1211 which is attached to the lower side of the back side panel 1200 and extends transversely therefrom to provide form and structural integrity to the bottom panel 1208. A support skeg 1210 is affixed to the bottom panel 1208 to support the carrier in a generally balanced horizontal position with the bottom panel 1208 maintained horizontally supported by wheels 1205 of dual wheel assembly 1204 and the skeg 1210. A carry handle 1228 is attached to the back side panel 1200 as an alternate means for transport or carrying of the bag construction or pet carrier.

The carrier further includes a first lateral side panel 1212 and a second spaced, generally parallel, lateral side panel 1214 forming, in part, an enclosure for a pet. A combination front and top side panel 1216 is hinged to the bottom panel 1208 along a front edge 1218 thereof so that the flexible front and top side panel 1216 may be folded to the open position as illustrated in FIG. 24. Preferably, the upper half of the front and the top side panel 1216 is a mesh panel 1232 or sub panel to provide light and air for a pet which is retained within the carrier. A leash 1220 is affixed to the back side panel 1200 as described hereinafter.

The periphery of the front and top side panel 1216 includes a fastener mechanism such as a zipper 1222 which cooperates with a zipper mechanism 1224 along the lateral side edges 1223, 1225 of the lateral side panels 1212 and 1214 and further along a peripheral top edge 1226 of the back side panel 1200. The zipper or fastener mechanism 1222 and 1224 may be closed to attach the front and top side panel 1216 in whole or part in the manner depicted in FIGS. 24 and 25.

In an embodiment, the lateral side edges 1223 and 1225 are generally straight linear sections connected to a smoothly arcuate top edge section 1226 which is formed to enable substantially complete opening of the top side of the carrier. Also, the fastener mechanism is inserted or sewn with a dual zipper control so that each side of the flap 1216 may be partially opened. This enables the opening of the top and optionally a part of the front of the carrier while the front of the carrier maintains a panel or wall section to hold a pet within the carrier enclosure enabling the pet (e.g. a dog or cat) to expose their head through the open top. The leash, described hereinafter, will help retain the pet when the top of the carrier is open.

FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate in greater detail the construction of the leash 1220. The leash 1220 includes an elongate strap which extends through the layers of material 1240 and 1242 forming the back side panel 1200 so that a free end 1244 of the strap 1220 may be wrapped around a post 1246 of the telescoping handle 1202. The strap 1220 terminates at its other, outer end with a buckle 1248 for attachment of a collar or leash of an animal. In this manner, the front panel 1216 may be opened, yet the animal or pet will be restrained and maintained in appropriate proximity to the carrier. Preferably, the band forming the leash 1220 is attached toward the upper end of the post 1246 so that the pet may be positioned upright within the carrier. However, the strap 1220 is sufficiently long so that the pet may assume a reclining position.

It is to be noted that the back side panel or side 1200 as well as the bottom side 1208 are generally rigid or semi-rigid so as to form the basis for the enclosure or carrier. The lateral sides 1212 and 1214 need not be as rigid. They may be rigid or semi-rigid or flexible. Preferably, they have some ability to accommodate movement and thus are at least somewhat flexible.

Of course, the front panel 1216 is foldable and may be folded outwardly as illustrated in FIG. 26 or may be folded into the interior of the enclosure formed by the back wall 1200, the lateral side walls 1212 and 1214, and the bottom wall or panel 1208. With this described construction, it is possible to stack multiple units of the carrier in various ways for purposes of storage, shipment and the like. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 30, the carriers or bags may be stored by opening the front panel 1216 and juxtaposing the bottom panels 1208 against each other. Alternatively, the bags or carriers may be stacked as depicted in FIG. 29 wherein the bottom panels 1208 are arranged in opposition. That is, the top of one bag is placed against the bottom of a second bag. The described embodiment thus enables the combination of multiple bags for purposes of storage and shipment thereby saving the cost of shipping such products and the cost of storage of products at a warehouse facility, for example.

FIGS. 31-35 illustrate yet a further embodiment of the invention which is designed for carrying pets or small animals and, more particularly, for attachment thereof to a seat belt in order to protect the animal in the event of a sudden stop or crash. That is, the construction of the embodiment of FIGS. 31-35 includes a construction for joining the tubular telescoping handle to the carrier bag in a manner which provides for reinforcement of the connection so that a sudden stop will not cause the seat belt and the carrier to become separated. Further, the front side panel of the carrier is designed to cushion the animal in the event of an impact or a sudden stop or other undesirable motion of the vehicle.

Referring therefore to FIGS. 31-35, the carrier has a construction similar to that depicted in the prior figures. More specifically, a back side panel 1400 is joined to a bottom panel 1402. The panels are joined at a juncture or junction 1404 which is generally a right angle junction. The bottom panel 1402 may include a rigid panel or semi rigid panel encapsulated or alternatively, covered in part by fabric comprising the bottom panel 1402. The embodiment further includes a first lateral side panel 1406 and an opposite side lateral panel 1408 each fabricated from a flexible fabric and/or mesh.

A telescoping handle construction 1430 is attached to the back side panel 1400. The construction of the telescoping handle 1430 and the back side panel 1400 in combination with auxiliary members or braces, webbing and other materials, provides a reinforced back side panel designed to provide a construction that is adequately strong to be restrained by a seat belt, even when significant stresses are placed upon a the seat belt and thus on the carrier or bag. More specifically, the telescoping handle 1430 includes a lower, generally L shaped carriage or bracket member 1432 which is connected to the back side panel 1400 and the bottom side panel 1402. The bracket 1432 includes a first wheel assembly 1434 and a second wheel assembly 1436, attached thereto.

Extending vertically upwardly from the bracket assembly 1432 and affixed or attached or incorporated therewith and thereto is a first, vertical tubular member 1438 and a spaced, second, vertical tubular member 1440. A handle 1442 may thus be engaged manually to withdraw telescoping tubular members, such as tubular members 1444 and 1446 from the first tube 1438 and second tube 1440, simultaneously for wheeled transport of the carrier.

Typically, the back side panel 1400 includes layered fabric material 1450, 1451. The fabric layers 1450, 1451 may cover or may encapsulate a reinforcing board or auxiliary member 1460. The member 1460 extends at least between and is joined to or engaged with the spaced vertical, first and second tubular members 1438 and 1440. The member 1460 may comprise a generally rigid plastic or a metal plate. Further, a cross brace 1462 is affixed to auxiliary support a bracket member 1463. The bracket member 1463 is a horizontal bracket member and is positioned above the lower wheel bracket 1432 at the upper region of the back side panel 1400 above the arrangement described hereinafter related to the features for engaging a seat belt. The reinforcing bracket 1463 is attached to cross brace 1462 (typically made from a metal plate) and receives first and second fasteners each comprising a nut 1465 and bolt 1466 or 1468. In this manner, the bracket 1463 is engaged and held in place by a combination of a metal plate or brace 1462, an auxiliary support member 1460 and fasteners 1466 and 1468.

Further, the back side panel 1400 includes a first vertical webbing material 1470 which is positioned adjacent the first vertical tubular member 1438. A second vertical webbing 1472 is provided immediately adjacent the second vertical tube 1440. Horizontal web members 1474 connect the top edges of the vertical webs 1470 and 1472 to the back side panel 1400. A second lower horizontal web member 1476 connects the vertical web members 1470 and 1472 at their lower end to the back side panel 1400. In this manner, a web or mesh of webs is provided to enhance reinforcing on the back side panel 1400. The vertical web members 1470 and 1472 include slots defined between the fabric 1450 and webbing 1470, 1472 for receipt of a seat belt such as the seat belt 1480. Thus, the seat belt 1480 may be slipped through the slots 1482 and 1484 under the webbing 1472 and 1470, respectively and under the tubular members 1438, 1446.

With the construction so depicted, the seat belt 1480 may be fastened and the combination of the tubular members 1438 and 1440 with the web members 1470 and 1472 as well as the lower brace 1432 for the telescoping handle 1444, in combination with the cross brace member 1463 and attached components ensure that a seat belt 1480 will remain engaged with the carrier and that the integrity of the carrier is thereby preserved.

Other embodiments and alternative constructions of the invention are possible. The size and shape of the auxiliary or supplemental bottom panel may be varied. The number of wheels associated with the telescoping handle may be varied. The means for interconnecting the back panel with the bracket that supports the telescoping handle may be varied or altered all without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the invention is to be limited only by the following claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A carrier bag for a pet comprising, in combination:

a back side panel having a bottom edge;

a top side;

a bottom panel attached to the bottom edge of said back side panel along a juncture, said bottom panel extending generally transversely from the back side panel;

a bag transport wheel assembly bracket mounted on the bag generally at the juncture, and a reinforcing bracket mounted to the back side panel;

a telescoping handle assembly on the back side panel extending upwardly from the wheel assembly bracket, said telescoping handle assembly including first and second spaced, generally vertical tubes;

said back side panel further including a generally rigid auxiliary support member with a fabric covering and first and second spaced webs affixed to the fabric covering, said first web generally parallel to and adjacent the first vertical tube and including a slot for passage of a seatbelt, said second web also affixed to said fabric covering, generally parallel to and adjacent the second tube and including a slot for passage of a seat belt;

said first and second tubes overlying the fabric covering;

a mechanical fastener attaching the auxiliary support member to the reinforcing bracket;

a first lateral side panel attached to the back side panel along a side thereof;

a second lateral side panel attached to the back side panel along a side opposite the first lateral side panel, said back side panel bottom panel, first lateral side panel and second lateral side panel forming an enclosure with a generally open top side and front side;

a combination front and top side panel in the form of a flap having a lower end removably attached to the bottom side panel and removably attachable along at least a portion of the remaining periphery of said flap to the first and second lateral side panels and the top side of the back side panel, said flap foldable between a first attached position to enclose said enclosure and a second detached position to expose at least a portion of the said enclosure.

2. The carrier bag of claim 1 including a front side panel with a mesh subpanel therein.

3. The carrier bag of claim 1 wherein the bottom side panel further includes a reinforcing panel extending generally from the wheel assembly.

4. The carrier of claim 1 further including a leash having a first end attached to the telescoping handle and a second end extending into the enclosure.

5. The carrier of claim 4 wherein the leash comprises a strap affixed to one of the tubes.

6. The carrier of claim 1 further including a pattern of reinforcing horizontal web members affixed to the first and second vertical webs and the fabric covering on the back side panel.

7. The carrier of claim 1 wherein the mechanical fastener includes a generally horizontal cross brace, said cross brace positioned above the juncture and above the slots in the first and second vertical webs and overlying the auxiliary support member, said mechanical fastener further including fasteners joining the cross brace, the auxiliary support member and reinforcing bracket.

8. The carrier of claim 1 including a generally horizontal, reinforcing divider connecting the first lateral side panel and second lateral side panel along the front side of the enclosure, said reinforcing divider connected to the foldable flap.