MODULAR AND CUSTOMIZABLE PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT PACKING SYSTEM

Abstract

An adaptable and transferable backpacking system that is particularly suited for safe and efficient transportation of photographic equipment. The backpacking system is designed to eliminate unneeded weight and bulk, protect equipment when the backpack itself is open, and to prevent equipment from falling from an unzipped backpack. The backpack system generally includes a plurality of light-weight receptacles for the equipment the user needs for a specific trip and a backer board. The backer board is removably mounted and secured within a backpack of the user's choice. The individual receptacles are operably coupled to a backer board and/or each other and arranged to the user's desire by an attachment means, such as a hook and loop system. Alternatively, the backpack system generally includes an insert that is removably affixable within the carrier. Partitions are positioned within the insert to define a number of compartments for the equipment.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/424,788 entitled “MODULAR AND CUSTOMIZABLE PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT PACKING SYSTEM,” filed Jun. 16, 2006, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/690,954, filed Jun. 16, 2005, and entitled “ADAPTABLE AND TRANSFERABLE PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT BACKPACKING SYSTEM,” both of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to equipment packing and carriers. More particularly, the present invention relates to a modular and customizable equipment packing system that is easily transferable among different bags and backpacks, such as for the safe and efficient transport of photographic equipment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field photography generally requires the transport of expensive, delicate, and often heavy equipment to the locations where photographs will be taken. Frequently, the photographer will transfer photographic equipment such as, for example, camera bodies, a selection of lenses, tripods, accessories, film, and the like. In some situations, the photographic equipment can weigh in excess of fifty pounds. Often times, the transport is over challenging terrain, such as rocky, uneven terrain, making the use of a backpack or other carrier an effective means of transporting the equipment.

A variety of backpack systems designed for a variety of uses is commercially available. Commercially available backpack systems include shoulder packs designed to carry schoolbooks, and expedition packs designed for extended expeditions. The distribution of the cargo weight on the user is dependent upon the placement of the carrying straps. For example, a shoulder strap on a school bag transfers the cargo weight to the user's shoulder and back. A waist belt on an expedition pack is worn on the shelf of a backpacker's hips to transfer the cargo weight to the user's hips, easing the strain on the user's shoulders and back. In addition, an expedition pack of lightweight design utilizes internal frames and lightweight materials.

Backpacks specifically designed for photographic equipment are also commercially available. These backpacks generally consist of loop material encasing integrated foam for protection of the photographic equipment. The user is able to partition the bag into smaller compartments through the use of foam-filled dividers that grip the loop material on the inside of the bag.

However, there are a number of significant disadvantages with these backpacks. The backpacks tend to be heavy because of the integrated foam, often weighing as much as seven pounds before the addition of equipment. The backpacks are generally not designed for optimum weight redistribution. There is often no room for supplies in addition to the photographic equipment. When the backpack is open, the equipment inside is exposed to various environmental elements including dust, rain, humidity, debris, and the like. Finally, if the backpack is opened when moved about, the equipment may be expelled and damaged or lost.

It is desirable to have a backpack system that may be integrated into and easily moved from one standard expedition pack to another as the demands of the trip dictate. In addition, protection from environmental elements such as dust, rain, humidity, debris, and the like is desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a modular and customizable equipment packing system that is easily transferable among different bags and backpacks, such as for the safe and efficient transport of photographic equipment. The packing system is designed to reduce weight and bulk, to protect equipment when a backpack or other carrier in which the packing system is fitted is open, and to prevent equipment from falling from an unzipped or unsecured backpack or carrier. The packing system can be used interchangeably with a variety of commercially available backpacks, bags, and cases. The packing system generally includes a backer board and a plurality of light-weight receptacles to house and protect various pieces of equipment. The backer board can be removably mounted and secured within a carrier of a user's choice, such as a backpack. The individual receptacles can then be removably secured to the backer board and/or each other, arranged in any convenient configuration to suit a user's preferences.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a modular and customizable equipment transport apparatus. The apparatus can be used with a variety of equipment and may be well-suited for the storage and transportation of various photographic lenses and equipment. The apparatus can comprise a backer board and at least one receptacle adapted to be removably secured to the backer board. The backer board comprises one of a hook material or a loop material of a hook and loop attachment system, and each receptacle can comprise the other of the hook material and loop material. The receptacle thus can be removably secured to the backer board and/or other receptacles and mounted in a backpack or other carrier.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a method for transporting photographic or other equipment. A backer board can be removable secured within a carrier by an anchoring system, wherein the backer board comprises a first portion of an attachment system. An item can be placed within at least one receptacle comprising an equipment-containing area, a lid, and a second portion of the attachment system, and the receptacle can be removably secured to the backer board by engaging the first and second portions of the attachment system

In yet another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a modular and customizable backpacking system for use with photographic equipment. The system can comprise a carrier, such as a front-access backpack, a backer board removably mounted within the carrier by an anchoring system, and at least one receptacle adapted to be removably positioned upon the backer board. In one embodiment, a loop material of a hook and loop attachment system can be affixed to at least a portion of one of the backer board and each receptacle, with a corresponding hook material affixed to the other of the backer board and receptacle. The receptacle can then be removably secured to the backer board.

In an alternative embodiment, a modular and customizable apparatus can comprise an insert removably mounted within a carrier by an attachment system. Removable partitions can be arranged within the insert by a user to accommodate a variety of photographic equipment. The insert can additionally comprise a closing means, such as a zipper, to secure the partitions and equipment within the insert. The insert is readily transferable from one carrier to another.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a method for transporting photographic or other equipment within a modular and customizable insert. Removable partitions can be arranged within the insert to accommodate the equipment. The insert can be further closed by a zipper. The insert can be removably mounted within a carrier by an attachment system, such as a hook and loop system.

In yet another embodiment, a modular and customizable backpacking system for use with photographic equipment can comprise a carrier, such as a front-access backpack, an insert removably mounted within the carrier, and partitions adapted to be removably positioned within the insert. In one embodiment, hook material of a hook and loop attachment system is positioned upon at least a portion of one of the exterior of the insert and the inner surface of the carrier, with the corresponding loop material affixed to the other of the exterior of the insert and the inner surface of the carrier.

The above summary of the invention is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adaptable and transferable backpack system according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a backer board according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is another perspective view of a backer board according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an anchoring clamp system according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of another receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of another receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5D is a perspective view of another receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5E is a perspective view of another receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5F is a perspective view of another receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5G is a perspective view of another receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5H is a perspective view of another receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a side view of a lens configuration according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a receptacle according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a modular and customizable packing system according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a modular and customizable packing system according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring to FIG. 1, a modular and customizable packing system 50 can be used in combination with a carrier 10. Carrier 10 can comprise a backpack, bag, suitcase, roller case, hard case, or some other similar suitable carrier. The adaptable and transferable backpack system can be used in a variety of commercially available backpacks and suitcases, such as a backpack with front access and a comfortable weight distribution system.

Referring also to FIGS. 2 and 3, modular and customizable packing system 50 comprises a backer board 100, a backer board anchoring system 200, and at least one receptacle 300. Backer board 100 has a first side 100a and a second side 100b and can comprise a lightweight rigid or semi-rigid stiffening substrate such as, for example, cardboard, tag board, plastic, and other suitable materials. In one embodiment of the invention, backer board 100 can be die-cut to fit a specific backpack. In another embodiment of the invention, backer board 100 can be configured for use with a variety of commercially available backpacks and other carriers without requiring modification of backer board 100.

Backer board 100 can be inserted into and removably anchored within carrier 10 by an anchoring system 200. Anchoring system 200 can comprise, for example, a fabric anchoring clamp system, a bayonet clip, a penetrating pin assembly, a hook and loop strip, parachute cord ties, laces, ties, and other suitable anchoring systems. In one embodiment as depicted in FIG. 2, anchoring system 200 can comprise at least one tie or lace affixed to second surface 100b of backer board 100. The laces can be affixed directly to first surface 110a and/or second surface 110b of backer board 100 and/or to board attachment member 102 or can be threaded through or tied to backer board 100. The laces of anchoring system 200 can be secured to any area of carrier 10 that sufficiently provides for secure mounting of backer board 100 within carrier 10.

In an alternative embodiment, and referring to FIG. 4, anchoring system 200 comprises a fabric anchoring clamp system comprising a threaded post screw 202, at least one cushion 204 such as, for example, a neoprene cushion, foam cushion, and the like, and a pressure plate 206. Screw 202 comprises a head portion 202a and a threaded post 202b. Threaded post 202b of screw 202 can be inserted at any location on backer board 100. Cushion 204a can be placed on threaded post 202b, sandwiching backer board 100 between cushion 204a and head portion 202a of screw 202. Threaded post 202b can then be inserted through the material of carrier 10 (not shown in FIG. 4). In an alternative embodiment, backer board 100 can comprise a series of apertures through which threaded screw 202 can be passed. A second cushion 204b can be placed on threaded post 202b, sandwiching carrier 10 between each cushion 204a and 204b. Threaded post 202b can then be inserted in pressure plate 206 to form a secure, non-damaging and removable anchor for the assemblage. In some embodiments, the clamp system can comprise more or fewer than two cushions 204a and 204b.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-3, packing system 50 further comprises an attachment system that includes a board attachment member 102. Board attachment member 102 can be either permanently or temporarily secured to at least a portion of backer board 100 by a suitable joining technique, such as, for example, sewing, adhesive joining, molding, flame laminating, zipping, snapping, tying, buttoning, and other appropriate joining techniques. In one embodiment of the present invention, board attachment member 102 comprises one of a loop material or a hook material of a hook and loop system, such as VELCRO, on at least first surface 100a of backer board 100.

The attachment system removably secures one or more receptacles 300 of packing system 50 to backer board 100. Referring also to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 6, receptacles 300 can comprise a variety of shapes and configurations to suit a variety of equipment and items such as, in the case of photographic equipment, large format lenses, round lenses, camera bodies, filters, flash units, film, caps, meters, memory cards and sticks, and the like. Receptacles 300 may therefore be cubic, rectangular, cylindrical, oblong, and other suitable shapes. Receptacles 300 can also be specifically shaped and sized to house and protect specific pieces or brands of equipment. Receptacles 300 can comprise cardboard, composite fabrics and materials, plastic, foam board, metal, and other suitable materials that provide light-weight yet rugged features. For example, the particular material or materials of receptacles 300 can be selected to suit particular types of equipment. A first receptacle 300 could therefore comprise a lightweight fabric and foam covered metal for a relatively fragile and expensive lens, while a second receptacle 300 could comprise a fabric pouch for plastic film canisters. Depending on the particular material(s), features, and configurations, receptacles 300 can be formed by sewing, molding, thermoforming, pressing, and other suitable manufacturing methods.

Referring to FIG. 5B, receptacle 300 comprises a cubic configuration having four sides 302, a top 304, and a bottom 306, defining an equipment-receiving area 303 and a lid 305 in one embodiment. Sides 302, top 304, and bottom 306 can comprise the same size to form a cube, or can comprise different sizes. For example, sides 302 can comprise a smaller area than top 304 and bottom 306 to create a thinner, space-saving receptacle.

Alternate embodiments of receptacles 300 are depicted in FIGS. 5C-5H, having various example rectangular and cubic configurations. To store and carry a variety of equipment, a user may desire a plurality of differently sized and configured receptacles 300. To accommodate a relatively large number of receptacles 300 on a single backer board 100 in a carrier 10 as described in more detail below, space-saving receptacles can be used. Space-saving receptacle 300 as depicted in FIGS. 5C-5H can comprise a rectangular case, for example, with sides 302 of smaller or larger area than top 304 and bottom 308. Equipment, such as a plurality of lenses, can then be configured vertically within receptacle 300, and within carrier 10, as depicted in FIG. 6.

Lid 305 can comprise a domed lid (FIGS. 5A and 5B) or a substantially flat lid (FIGS. 5C-5H). Receptacle 300 can be closed by securing lid 305 to the main portion of receptacle 300 by securing means such as a zipper, hook tab, lip wrap, magnet, VELCRO, clasp, snap, button, and other suitable securing means on at least one side 302. The interior of top 304 of receptacle 300 can comprise a tray-like shape, as shown in FIG. 7. A first surface 304a of top 304 of cubic receptacle 300 can comprise a recessed area that acts as a tray for a camera or camera equipment when top 304 is substantially opened. When bottom 306 of cubic receptacle is attached to first surface 100a of backer board 100 so that a second surface 304b of top 304 opens downwardly, the tray-like shape of top 304 reduces the possibility of a dropped lens or other equipment by acting like a tray to catch falling equipment. In one embodiment, the interior of top 304 can comprise a foam or other shock-absorbing material to cushion items that may fall into lid 305.

With reference to the attachment system described in part above, receptacle 300 further comprises a receptacle attachment member 308 adapted to removably secure receptacle 300 to backer board 100 by interfacing with board attachment member 102. In an embodiment in which board attachment member 102 comprises one of a hook and loop material, receptacle attachment member 308 comprises the other of the hook and loop material. Receptacle attachment member 308 can be permanently or removably secured to at least a portion of an exterior of receptacle 300 by means of sewing, laminating of adhesive, flame-laminating, and other suitable attachment methods. In other embodiments, receptacle attachment member 308 can be secured to any or all of exterior surfaces of receptacle 300 including top 304 and bottom 306, only one side of receptacle 300, a portion of at least one side of receptacle 300, or any combination thereof. In an alternative embodiment, receptacle 300 can be constructed entirely of the material comprising receptacle attachment member 308.

Referring to FIG. 5B, receptacle 300 can comprise a cylindrical shape comprising a cylindrical body 312, lid 314, and bottom 316, defining an equipment-receiving area and a lid. In one embodiment of the present invention, receptacle attachment member 308 can be secured to at least a portion of cylindrical body 312 and bottom 316 by sewing, laminating, flame-laminating, and other suitable attachment methods. In other embodiments, receptacle attachment member 308 can be secured to any or all of exterior surfaces of receptacle 300 including lid 314 and bottom 316, only one surface of receptacle 300, or any combination thereof. In an alternative embodiment, receptacle 300 can be constructed entirely or primarily of the material of receptacle attachment member 308. For example, if board attachment member 102 comprises a hook material, receptacle attachment member 308 can be constructed of a corresponding loop material.

Receptacles 300 can further comprise protection means such as, for example, non-moisture absorbing foam padding, waterproof material, desiccant material, water-proof zippers, gas-proof zippers, sealed seams, and other suitable means to protect equipment from environmental elements such as water, dust, humidity, and the like, as well as from general jostling and movement during transport. With the addition of a desiccant material, receptacle 300 serves as a drying chamber for the equipment.

In one embodiment of the invention, receptacle 300 can comprise a label 307 for identification of the equipment within, photographer or owner, contact information, and other such information. Label 307 can be permanently affixed by sewing, adhering, and the like, or it can be removably attached by suitable attachment systems such as, for example, hook and loop, magnets, temporary adhesive, and the like. Label 307 can be located on either or both of an exterior or interior surface of receptacle 300.

Receptacle 300 can also additionally comprise a tie, bungee cord, and other suitable securing means within equipment-receiving area 303 of receptacle 300 to further secure the equipment within receptacle 300. Alternatively or additionally, receptacle 300 can comprise an exterior tie, bungee cord, and other suitable securing means for reducing or enlarging the general size of receptacle 300 to accommodate a wider range of equipment.

Before or after backer board 100 is anchored to backpack or carrier 10, one or more receptacles 300 can be removably secured to first surface 100a of backer board 100 by board attachment member 102 and receptacle attachment member 308. As described above, board attachment member 102 can comprise one of a hook material and a loop material and receptacle attachment member 308 can comprise the other of the hook material and the loop material to removably couple receptacle 300 to backer board 100.

In another embodiment in which a hook and loop system is used, board attachment member 102 and receptacle attachment member 308 can comprise the same material. In this embodiment, an interface attachment member, such as, for example, a double-sided patch of the hook material of a hook and loop system, can be used to removably couple receptacle 300 to backer board 100 when both board attachment member 102 and receptacle attachment member 308 comprise loop material. Similarly, a double-sided patch of loop material can be used when both board attachment member 102 and receptacle attachment member 308 comprise hook material. Other interface attachment member configurations can be used to accommodate various board attachment members 102 and receptacle attachment members 308.

A plurality of receptacles 300 in a variety of shapes and sizes can be positioned on backer board 100 and/or to each other by the attachment system, arranged accordingly to meet the user's needs. Attaching receptacles 300 to backer board 100 and/or each other keeps receptacles 300 in a desired position relative to each other and allows the photographic equipment to be situated in its most accessible position within carrier 10, making it easier to locate, access, and store equipment as needed. It also prevents the equipment from being expelled from receptacle 300 should a user forget to fully close carrier 10.

In another embodiment, backer board 100 is optional, and at least two receptacles can be secured to each other by the attachment system and then secured within carrier 10 by anchoring system 200. In this embodiment, each receptacle 300 can comprise two or more receptacle attachment members 308 to provide a variety of configurations. For example, two sides of each receptacle 300 can comprise a hook material and two other sides can comprise a loop material such that a plurality of modular receptacles 300 can be removably coupled to each other to form a cluster. Alternatively, interface attachment members as described above can be used to removably couple two or more receptacles 300 to one another. At least a portion of the interior of carrier 10 can optionally comprise a hook material, a loop material, or another securing means to secure the cluster of receptacles 300, or a single receptacle 300, within carrier 10 without backer board 100.

In yet another embodiment, combinations of the systems described above can be used. For example, receptacles 300 can comprise hook and/or loop materials such that backer board 100 is optional but available for use if desired.

In use, backer board 100 can be removably mounted within carrier 10 by anchoring system 200. Photographic or other equipment can be placed within an appropriate receptacle 300 in any suitable configuration and receptacle 300 is closed to secure the equipment within. Label 307 can be affixed to receptacle 300 identifying the equipment within receptacle 300. If more than one receptacle 300 is desired, two or more receptacles 300 can be operably coupled to one another by an attachment system described above to form a cluster. The cluster can be then inserted into carrier 10 and operably coupled to backer board 100. Alternatively, at least one receptacle 300 can be individually inserted into carrier 10 and coupled to backer board 100. Carrier 10 can then be closed to secure receptacles 300 and backer board 100 within carrier 10. In another embodiment, one or more receptacles 300 can be removably secured to backer board 100 prior to backer board 100 being secured within carrier 10.

The modular and configurable packing system offers many advantages, such as providing increased protection by placing a material or structure between adjacent pieces of equipment in a backpack or bag. As a photographer is using the equipment for taking pictures, unused equipment remains in a closed receptacle 300, protected from dust and debris, and is not subject to falling from receptacle 300. If receptacle 300 is opened, the tray-like structure of the top of each receptacle reduces the possibility of dropped equipment. Further, only a single receptacle 300 need be opened to access equipment, leaving remaining equipment secured in other receptacles. Specific desired equipment can be located by label 307 or by visual identification if receptacle 300 comprises a transparent or semi-transparent material, such as a mesh, plastic, combination thereof, or other material.

For additional security and ease of access to equipment, and referring to FIG. 8, a backpack carrier 10 containing packing system 50 can also be coupled to a tripod 20 or other structure. Such a configuration provides stability to tripod 20 while at the same time keeping backpack 10 easily accessible yet out of dust, debris, and the like. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8, carrier 10 can comprise an optional tripod mounting means, such as a hook, handle, loop, or other structure. The tripod mounting means can be distinct from or integrated with a tripod transport means for securing tripod 20 to carrier 10 for transport and storage when not in use.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, referring to FIG. 9, modular and customizable packing system 50 comprises an insert 400 that is adapted to be removably mounted within carrier 10. Insert 400 generally can comprise at least one side 402, a bottom, 404, and a top 406 to create an equipment receiving area 407. Insert 400 can be any suitable size to fit within carrier 10. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 9, insert 400 is substantially the same size and shape of carrier 10 to fit snugly within carrier 10 without significant shifting of insert 400 within carrier 10. Insert 400 can be removably mounted within carrier 10 by an attachment system, such as, for example, a hook and loop system, buttons, snaps, parachute cord ties, laces, ties, and other suitable attachment systems.

In one embodiment of the invention, as depicted in FIG. 9, insert 400 comprises a first attachment member 408 of a hook and loop system positioned on at least a portion of an exterior 410 of insert 400, such as at least one strip secured to bottom 404. A second attachment member 412 of an attachment system is correspondingly positioned on at least a portion of an interior surface 414 of carrier 10 such that first attachment member 408 is adapted to engage second attachment member 412 when insert 400 is placed within carrier 10. First and second attachment members 408 and 412 can be permanently or removably secured to at least a portion of exterior 410 of insert 400 and the interior surface 414 of carrier 10 by means of sewing, laminating of adhesive, flame-laminating, and other suitable attachment methods.

In another embodiment (not shown) in which a hook and loop system is used, first attachment member 408 and second attachment member 412 can comprise the same material. In this embodiment, an interface attachment member such as, for example, a double-sided patch of the hook material of a hook and loop system, can be used to removably couple insert 400 within carrier 10 when both first attachment member 408 and second attachment member 412 comprise loop material. Similarly, a double-sided patch of loop material can be used when both first attachment member 408 and second attachment member 412 comprise hook material. Other interface attachment member configurations can be used to accommodate various first and second attachment members 408 and 412.

Insert 400 further can comprise at least one partition 418 adapted to be removably and customizably positioned to form compartments 416 within equipment receiving area 407. Compartments 416 can accommodate various arrangements of equipment within insert 400. Partitions 418 can comprise a single panel, or various shapes such as a T-shaped partition and the like. Partitions 418 can comprise a height equal to or less than a height of insert 400. Partitions 418 can comprise plastic, foam, cardboard, fabric, or any other suitable material or combinations thereof.

Partitions 418 can be freely standing, removably secured, and/or permanently secured within insert 400. In one embodiment (not shown), an edge of partition 418 can comprise a first attachment member adapted to engage a second attachment member positioned on the interior surface 414 of insert 400. In addition or alternatively, partitions 418 can comprise attachment members so that partitions 418 are adapted to engage with each other in a variety of arrangements. The attachment members can comprise hook material, loop material, snaps, buttons, ties, and other suitable attachment members of an attachment system. In another embodiment (not shown), partition 418 can comprise a slot along a portion of the height of partition 418 to interlock partition 418 with other partitions 418. For example, a first partition with a slot is slid over a second partition to form an intersection of the two partitions such that the first partition is substantially perpendicular to the second partition.

In another embodiment of the invention not shown, at least one receptacle 300 can be removably mounted or freely inserted within insert 400. In one embodiment, a first attachment member of an attachment system is positioned on the interior surface 414 of insert 400. Receptacle 300 comprises a second attachment member positioned on its exterior and adapted to engage the first attachment member.

Insert 400 can further comprise a closure member 420 such as, for example, a zipper, buttons, snaps, clasps, and other suitable means to close insert 400. In one embodiment, depicted in FIG. 9, closure member 420 is a zipper located along at least a portion of interfacing edge 422 of at least one side 402 and interfacing edge 424 of top 406 of insert 400. Closure member 420 acts to secure equipment within equipment receiving area 407 and to further keep dust, debris, water, and other unwanted materials from reaching the equipment.

In use, partitions 418 can be arranged within equipment receiving area 407 to form compartments 416 according to the user's preference and needs. Equipment, such as photographic equipment and supplies, can be loaded into the compartments 416 of insert 400. Insert 400 is closed by closure member 420 to secure the equipment within compartments 416. Insert 400 is removably mounted within carrier 10 by aligning and operably engaging first attachment member 408 positioned upon exterior 410 of insert 400 with corresponding second attachment member 412 positioned upon interior surface 414 of insert 400. Carrier 10 is then closed to further secure insert 400 and its contents within carrier 10. Optionally, additional equipment, supplies, receptacles, or the like, can be inserted in any available space between insert 400 and carrier 10 before closing carrier 10.

The modular and configurable packing system of the invention described herein is not limited to use with photographic equipment. For example, the packing system can be used to transport camping supplies, fishing tackle and supplies, picnic supplies, sport equipment, art and craft supplies, school supplies, and other such applications requiring safe and efficient transportation of equipment.

The invention therefore addresses and resolves many of the deficiencies and drawbacks previously identified. The invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the essential attributes thereof; therefore, the illustrated embodiments should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the modular and configurable packing system of the invention is not limited to use in backpacks and can be used in other containers such as, for example, suitcase, bags, handbags, and the like.

Claims

1. A modular and customizable equipment packing and transporting system comprising:

a carrier wherein at least a portion of an interior of the carrier comprises a first member of an attachment system;

an insert comprising at least one side, a bottom, and a top defining an equipment-receiving area, wherein at least a portion of an exterior of the insert comprises a second member of the attachment system; and

at least one removable and interchangeable partition positionable within the equipment-receiving area of the insert to define a plurality of compartments,

wherein the insert is removably affixable to the interior of the carrier by engaging the first and second members of the attachment system.

2. The transporting system of claim 1, wherein the carrier is selected from the group consisting of a backpack, a front-access backpack, a suitcase, a bag, a roller case, and a hard case.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member define a hook and loop attachment system such that the first attachment member and the second attachment member are adapted for removable engagement.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first attachment member, the second attachment member, and a double-sided interface member define a hook and loop attachment system such that the interface member is adapted to removably attach the insert to the carrier.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the insert further comprises a means for securing contents within the equipment-receiving area.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the means for securing is selected from the group consisting of a zipper, buttons, snaps, clasps, and combinations thereof.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the carrier further comprises a means for enclosing the insert within the carrier.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the means for enclosing is selected from the group consisting of a zipper, buttons, snaps, clasps, and combinations thereof.

9. A method of transporting photographic equipment comprising:

providing an insert comprising at least one side, a bottom, and a top;

arranging at least one partition within the insert to define a plurality of compartments;

positioning a piece of photographic equipment within one of the plurality of compartments;

attaching the insert within a carrier, wherein at least a portion of an exterior of the insert comprises a first member of an attachment system and at least a portion of an interior of the carrier comprises a second member of the attachment system and wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member are adapted for removable engagement.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

securing the piece of photographic equipment within the insert by engaging a first closure member; and

enclosing the insert within the carrier by engaging a second closure member.

11. An apparatus for modular and configurable transport of equipment comprising:

a carrier;

an insert comprising at least one side, bottom, and top defining an equipment-receiving area;

a means for defining a plurality of compartments within the equipment-receiving area of the insert; and

a means for removably affixing the insert within the carrier.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the means for removably affixing the insert within the carrier comprises a first member of an attachment system positioned on at least a portion of an exterior of the insert, and wherein the first member is adapted to engage a second member of the attachment system positioned on at least a portion of the interior of a carrier.

13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the insert further comprises a means for securing contents within the equipment-receiving area.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the means for securing contents is selected from the group consisting of a zipper, buttons, snaps, clasps, and combinations thereof.

15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the carrier is selected from the group consisting of a backpack, a front-access backpack, a suitcase, a bag, a roller case, and a hard case.

16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member define a hook and loop attachment system such that the first attachment member and the second attachment member are adapted for removable engagement.

17. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first attachment member, the second attachment member, and a double-sided interface member define a hook and loop attachment system such that the interface member is adapted to removably attach the insert to the carrier.

18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the means for defining a plurality of compartments within the equipment-receiving area of the insert comprises a plurality of selectively arrangeable partitions.

19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the carrier further comprises a means for enclosing the insert within the carrier.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the means for enclosing the insert within the carrier is selected from the group consisting of a zipper, buttons, snaps, clasps, and combinations thereof.