Carry Device
In one embodiment a carry device includes a first inner carry pouch made from a first material and an outer bounding pouch or layer made from a second material defining at least one cavity therebetween. An access port may include a release and inflation actuator and provides volumetric access to the at least one cavity allowing passage of a pressurizing atmosphere or temperature effecting medium, or combination thereof. A sealable access is provided, and a common pressure is applied to an outer uniform-pressure region of a non-rigid or rigid item being carried thereby preventing damage and crushing thereof through high contact pressure gradients. In another embodiment handles are inflatable to aid sealing the inner carry pouch and provide a comfortable grip.
This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/630,646 filed Nov. 24, 2004, the contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a carry device. More specifically, the present invention relates to a convenient device for receiving items to be carried that includes at least one inner cavity or bladder for inflation or storage of a pressure or a temperature transfer medium, whereby the received items are restrained from moving.
2. Description of the Related Art
Various attempts have been made to use air pillows or bags in packaging to secure items being shipped. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,254,074 and 5,339,602 to Landers et al., outline the general processes for forming a series of inflatable air bags and placing those bags in shipping containers for inflation to secure items being shipped. Landers also outlines the use of an inflation valve or check valve allowing a deflated bag to be placed into a shipping container, and inflated after the container is sealed via an extension of an inflation valve outside the container prior to inflation. Landers describes the formation of such bags from a spool of low-density polyethylene that is then folded and heat-sealed. Other forms of plastic sealing or joining are common in the trade and include RF (radio frequency) bonding, adhesive bonding, friction bonding, and others. The use of such shipping bags provides obvious conveniences in cost, storage space, and speed of use, all while allowing the use of a recyclable product.
Similar to the above, a Sealed Air product called Rapid Fill® seems to closely match the Lander's product providing use in an un-inflated state prior to packaging, and then a step of pressurizing the empty bag prior to completely closing the shipping container.
In contrast to the Lander's patents, the Sealed Air Fil-Air™ product shown at www.sealedair.com seems to create a series of pre-filled air bags that are then pressed into an unsealed box by a user to secure an item to be shipped. The pre-filled air bags come in differing sizes, and provide the benefits noted above, namely low cost, reduced storage space, speed of use, and use of recyclable materials.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,245 to Wilson outlines the deployment of an inflatable pet cage for user convenience during travel, or at pet shows, farms, or other areas where the cost of large animal storage is prohibitive. As shown, the device employs a partially rigid frame that collapses into a portable “suitcase” and later expands under air pressure. During inflation, fabric joining the rigid frame pieces inflates and supports the rigid frame pieces forming the entire unit. The device provides substantial convenience to a user.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,644,475 to Wilson, II et al., provides a multi-purpose bag that includes an inflatable member allowing the bag to be used to both carry items for transportation, and when inflated to use as a pillow or cushioning device. A carry strap allows the device to be slung from a shoulder and an external pocket aids transport. The inflatable member can be used with the bag or separated and used alone as a pillow.
Similar to Wilson, Global Sources™ provides an inflatable bag or rucksack made of translucent PVC. There are single or double shoulder straps, and a layer of external manufacturer-inflated sealed chambers. The bag is available at www.globalsource.com.
Somewhat similar to Wilson is the Bwana Palm Pump Inflatable Protective Case for storing small items, such as glasses or small phones. This product includes a central opening and a cover flap. The external body includes multiple individual air chambers and can be printed in attractive colors.
Referring now to
An inflation port 707 including a straw for inflating allows a user to inflate the region between inner bag 702 and outer bag 701. An air passage hole 708 allows inflation air to pass from one side of the device to the other side as shown in
According to this construction, the external edges of outer rigid seam 703 of the inflated outer container bag 701 are continuously sealed to the edges of inner bag 702, and the planar external surface of the outer container inflated body is also sealed to the planar body of the inner container along rigid inner seams 704. As shown, rigid inner seams 704 are also bent at angles relative to a length of carry device 700 and aid the generation of a rigid structure, as will be described.
As a consequence of such a construction, namely tightly connecting inner and outer bags 701, 702 along a series of rigid seams 704, inner bag 702 is tightly restrained in movement and contained relative to outer bag 701 and is prevented from shifting in any way. Ultimately, all inflation pressure is tightly contained within a series of air chambers pressing on rigid object 705, and as a consequence, a series of high pressure zones 710 and alternating zero pressure zones 711 are created along the rigid surface of rigid object 705. This generation of alternating pressure zones is further exacerbated by the bent angles of inner seams 704 proximate rigid seam 703.
Thus, during inflation the external planar walls of the inflated body 700 exert direct inward pressure on selected zones of object 705 via their sealed connection to the edges and the planar surface of the inner container 702. This construction prohibits shifting and energy reduction between the main planar surfaces of the inner and outer containers and with increasing pressure transfers this pressure solely to the defined high pressure zones 710 (as no pressure-dissipating motion is allowed). The increasing pressure cannot expand into zero pressure zones 711 due to the restriction created by inner seams 704 and the lack of shifting between inner and outer bags 702, 701. As a further consequence of such rigid construction, a series of air gaps 729 formed along rigid seam 703 during inflation where opposing sides of inner bag 702 can neither contact in all sections nor operate in concert with outer bag 701 due to the expansion of high pressure zones 710 to provide an air seal. Thus, packaging device 700 is well suited for shipping rigid electronic or other hard-bodied products, but is ill-suited to contain and preserve non-rigid items in a non-crushed manner, and cannot protect such items from moisture or air damage due to air gaps 729 and lack of a seal around the items.
Referring now to
In other areas of the art, an inflatable soap dish is provided in the shape of a frog or other animal. In this device, the soap dish is used as a float during a child's bath and includes an external depression for holding the soap. There is no inner container area or use as a transportable product other than as a floating support.
Finally, it is also known to provide thermally insulated bags to keep food cold or hot without ice. Products provided by www.insulatedbag.com or at www.koldtogo.com provide a foil package and a dispenser for gel-based cooling elements that are then placed into the bag. Since the bags are constructed from foil, they are sold with decorative printing attractive to a user.
What is also not appreciated by the related art, is that a wide variety of consumer objects requiring transport are not inherently resistant to being deformed by pressure (for example, eggs, baked goods, paper items, wrapped sandwiches, etc.) and yet require nearly uniform pressure about an outer contact region for secure transport. A common example of such objects are reflected in a children's lunch consisting of a sandwich, fruit, cookies/cake, and a drink. In such an example, what is needed is a carry device that securely contacts each items without crushing, resists unintended displacement during transport, and provides a common pressure about an outer contact region of each item.
What is similarly not appreciated by the related art is a need to protect such consumer objects from unintended contact with moisture during transport by the use of a substantially sealed container.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved carry device allowing secure transport, with uniform pressure application about a contact surface of an item being transported and an ability to protect the item or items from external damage with a substantially sealed container.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONOne proposed object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a carry device that overcomes at least one of the detriments noted above.
Another proposed object of an alternative embodiment the present invention is to provide a convenient and attractive carry device that allows economical production and optionally reuse or recycling.
Another proposed object of an alternative embodiment of the present invention is to provide a convenient device for receiving items to be carried that includes at least one inner cavity or bladder for inflation or storage of a pressure or a temperature transfer medium, whereby the received items are restrained from moving without crushing or optionally maintained at a desirable temperature during transport.
Another alternative object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide an inflatable carry device enabling a substantially common pressure application along a pressure contact surface of an item being transported without damaging pressure variants.
Another alternative object of the present invention is to provide an alternative embodiment capable of being optionally and substantially sealed to prevent unintended entry of moisture or unintended exit of items being carried.
The present invention relates to, in one alternative and adaptive embodiment, a carry device including a first inner carry pouch made from a first material and an outer bounding pouch or layer made from a second material defining at least one cavity therebetween. A sealable access port may include a release actuator and provides a pressure access to the at least one cavity allowing passage of a pressurizing atmosphere or a temperature effecting fluid, or other filling mediums or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the inner carry pouch may provide an open or a sealable access allowing separate sealing from an external atmosphere and consequential resistance from pressure provided by an inflated cavity.
According to an embodiment of the present invention there is provided a carry container, comprising: an inner pouch member operably bounded by an outer pouch member and defining at least one partially bounded cavity there between, means for providing an inner opening access to the inner pouch member during a use, and means for at least one of a liquid, a gel, and a pressure communication between an exterior of the carry container and the at least one bounded cavity, whereby during the use, the means for communication enables at least one of an application and a removal of the at least one communication within the at least one bounded cavity thereby enabling at least one of an application and removal of an item-securing force to an exterior of the inner pouch member to secure items therein without damaging the items.
According to one alternative and adaptive embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a carry device, comprising: an outer pouch member operably bounding an inner pouch member and defining at least one bounded cavity there between for receiving a selected pressurizing medium, the inner pouch member and the outer pouch member including respective inner and outer side walls, at least one inner side seam joining inner pouch side walls and at least one outer side seam joining outer pouch side walls forming respective inner and outer pouch members, means for providing an valve access to the at least one bounded cavity during a use for transmitting a pressurizing medium relative to the bounded cavity, a carry item receiving region within the inner pouch member accessible through an inner pouch opening, the inner pouch side walls and the outer side walls being readily shearable with respect to each other proximate the carry item receiving region during a use, thereby allowing the inner pouch side walls to substantially conform to the carry item without damaging the carry item.
The above, and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description read in conduction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate the same elements.
Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments of the invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not to precise scale or shape. For purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional terms, such as top, bottom, up, down, over, above, and below may be used with respect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner. Furthermore, the words “connect,” “couple,” and similar terms with their inflectional morphemes do not necessarily denote direct and immediate connections, but also include connections through mediate elements or devices.
Referring now to
Top and bottom members 7, 8 form an outer surface of an outer pouch 10 having an outer perimeter 6 proximate seam 6′. An inflation access port 3 and deflation access port 3′ provides ready access to at least one access cavity 200 defined between outer pouch 10 and the inner pouch member 9 having inner pouch walls 9′ and 9″. During use, a user inserts items 4 (shown as a sandwich) in direction A into inner opening 5 and blows into access port 3 via a straw 3A filling the bounded cavity 200 with air along air flows 9B to a desired inflation pressure, causing outer pouch 10 of carry assembly 1A to expand and assume a shape defined by outer seals 6′ and outer perimeter 6. Such a shape and pressure provides securing pressure on items 4 without causing crushing or damaging. The present invention helps to secure items 4 within assembly 1A and to retain each within an individual zone when the items are placed separately, as will be described. What is noted is that the surface plane of inner pouch side walls 9′ and 9″ are preferably not fixed along the respective planes of outer pouch sidewalls 7, 8 allowing some relative motion there between. As a consequence, substantially all of inner pouch side walls 9′, 9″ are allowed to enfold a carry item allowing ready adjustment to non-uniform shapes and to crushable carry items. As is noted herein, without substantial connection between the planes of inner and outer side walls little shear force is transferred despite pressure increases within bounded cavity 200 and hence little shear or crush force is applied to the carry items.
In this embodiment, outer pouch perimeter 6 may is configured to assume any attractive or convenient shape chosen by a manufacturer or customer, here the shape of a turtle. In use, this embodiment provides access port 3 proximate outer perimeter 6 for easy and inexpensive manufacturing (sealing access port 3 within the seam forming outer perimeter 6) where carry assembly 1A is designed for a single throwaway use.
Inflation access port 3 includes a sleeve 3B′ for air passage ending at a sleeve opening 3B accessing cavity 200 for inflation. Deflation port 3′ includes a hole 3D on top outer member 7 protectively covered by flat 3C. Thus, during use a user may inflate carry assembly 1A, transport the same, then deflate the assembly by pealing back flat 3C to reveal hole 3D and release the retained volume therein to allow access to inner opening 5 for removal of item 4. While the present invention includes deflation port 3′ as an adhesive flap/hole construction alternative constructions are envisioned. For example, deflation port 3′, and indeed inflation port 3 as well, may both be formed as a threaded adjustable opening, in a manner similar to those types found on inflatable air mattresses for camping.
As shown, inner opening 5 of inner pouch 9 is defined both by the shape of inner pouch 9 and by the position of the inner/outer sealing seams 19, 19 proximate handles 2. In this manner, inflating carry assembly 1A provides inflation pressure into handles 2 (see
As shown, inner pouch 9 is formed with a bottom rolled edge 9A allowing easy air passage throughout cavity 200 to readily equalize pressure and volume during carry motion and any inner pouch motion within outer pouch 10.
As is shown in
As will be described later, an optional construction to assembly 1B includes tack points join inner pouch 9 to selected portions of outer pouch 10. As shown, there are no connections between the broader non-seam surfaces of inner and outer pouches, only along the perimeter seams. As a consequence, there is substantially little restraint placed along the broader surface of inner pouch side walls 9′, 9″ by being fixed to outer top and bottom members 7, 8.
Hereinafter, the non-seam surfaces of inner and outer pouches (for example the expanse of top and bottom members 7, 8, are generally referred to as “planar surfaces” since they generally remain flat on a support surface prior to inflation or use. There is no requirement that these surfaces actually remain continually flat or smooth during use, only that substantially non-seam or minor-seam connections are made between inner and outer pouches along their surface thus—the phrase “planar surface” is selected for descriptive convenience. Connections are adaptably positioned about an outer region of both inner and outer carry items to secure and seal as required by the embodiments discussed.
In this manner, the present invention envisions an optional embodiment wherein inner and outer pouches are formed from three or four sheets of material joined by respective edge seams. In this optional embodiment, the seams would separate the generally “planar surfaces” and upon inflation would likely assume a cylindraceous appearance depending upon the length of each seam and position of each “planar surface.” Thus, applicants have selected this phrase for its easy descriptive quality when viewed in conjunction with the disclosure and drawings, and not in a strictly mathematical definitional manner.
Referring now to
As noted, inner pouch 9A has an inner pouch perimeter 11A proximate an inner pouch seam 11A′ following a non-regular shape where inner pouch 9A projects outwardly at selected gussets 201 to join outer perimeter 6A and be sealed within outer perimeter seal 6A′ thereby flexibly positioning inner pouch 9A within outer pouch 10A. As noted a plurality of openings are defined between gussets 201 allowing inflation pressure to be readily distributed and equilibrated to provide a uniform restraining force on item 4 within inner opening 5A. As shown, selected portions of inner pouch perimeter 11A are sealed to selected areas of outer perimeter 6A to both allow carry device 1B to retain a pleasing aesthetic look while positively positioning inner pouch 9A while allowing ready movement a uniform sealing pressure without planar restraint from outer pouch 10A. According to the present construction there is only minimal restriction on the adaptation of inner pouch 9A to item 4 along the outer perimeter at gussets 201.
Referring now to
As noted in the third embodiment, inner pouch 9A extends substantially to outer perimeter 6 and outer seam 6′ enabling a very simplified and speedy construction and dividing and bisecting the inner region of outer pouch 10C into substantially two halves. As noted in
In the embodiment shown construction may be substantially simplified while retaining the benefits inherent in the present invention in an alternative embodiment. As described, the present carry device 1C includes four sheets of seamed material and improves both the stability of carry device 1C while improving appearance to a select segment of the market for inflatable carrying devices. One simplified benefit of the present invention is the suspension and retention of inner pouch 9C relative to our pouch 10C.
Referring now to
As shown, carry device 1D is in contrast to carry device 1C by allowing inner ouch 9D to swing or shift within outer pouch 10D during inflation. This construction while enabling substantially similar benefits as those discussed above allows an additional degree of freedom for transporting items of particular delicacy where even minimal restraint on inner pouch 9D is detrimentally restrictive.
Referring now to
As shown, inner pouch 9E includes an inner pouch perimeter 11E and an inner pouch seam 11E′ and extends from opening 5E and alternatingly intersects with outer pouch seam 6E′ and outer pouch perimeter 6E allowing carry device 1E to assume a pleasing outer shape. As noted particularly in
As in the previous embodiments, this present construction allows moderate positioning restraint of inner pouch member 9E only within outer pouch member 10E, but does not substantially join the planar surfaces of inner and outer pouch members allowing relative motion there between. Thus, while nothing in the present disclosure of selected preferred embodiments prohibits minor tacking points or restraining seams between the planar surfaces of inner and outer pouch members, the goal of allowing inner pouch member 9E to adapt to the shape of carried items is not restricted.
Referring now
An inflation port 3F is positioned opposite inner opening 5F at an end of inner and outer pouch members 9F, 10F. In the present embodiment, inner pouch member 9F has an outer perimeter 11F and an outer perimeter seam 11F′ substantially within outer pouch member 10F but for the bottom area where a portion of inner pouch member 9F projects beyond an outer perimeter 6F and outer perimeter seam 6F′ to conceal inflation port 3F with loose portions of outer side members 7F, 8F.
In this sixth embodiment of carry device 1F, inner pouch member is retained on position between two opposing end fixture regions, namely handles 2F/opening 5F, and the region near inflation port 3F. Thus, the present embodiment securely positions inner pouch member 9F in a manner that does not restrain the planer surfaces of inner pouch side walls 9F, 9F′ and retains inner pouch member 9F distant from outer side walls 7F, 8F during inflation, thereby increasing cushioning while allowing inner pouch member 9F to readily adapt to an item to be carried without irregular pressure concentrations along its outer surface.
Referring now to
In the present embodiment, handles 2G, 2G are not inflatable, allowing for manufacturing diversity and adaptation, for example with an easily disposed limited-use design. As noted in
Referring now to
Referring now to
Employing and adapting the teachings of the tenth embodiment of carry device 1J allows those of skill in the consumer product arts to readily adapt a shape of carry device 1J to any commercially pleasing form in an effort to promote the product or adapt it to a particular product, such as the wine tote noted at
Referring now to
In the present embodiment separate top and bottom outer pouch members 10K, 10K′ are formed with respective top outer pouch side walls 7K, 8K and 7K′, 8K′ as shown. In the assembly disclosed in
One benefit of the present carry device 1K design is that a user may selectively inflate respective chambers 211K, 211K′ to differing inflation pressures depending upon the type of item to be carried. As an additional benefit of the present construction, inner pouch 9K is retained between outer pouch inner side walls 7K, 8K′ within a middle chamber 211K″, allowing ready and slidable planar movement relative thereto but resisting twisting and distortion as air pressure urges side walls of inner ouch 9K onto the item to be carried allowing a substantially uniform pressure contact on the item.
An additional benefit of the present construction is that middle chamber 211K″ formed around inner pouch 9K by sealing outer pouch inner side walls 7K and 8K′ may be filled with a thermal transfer medium such as water for cooling in a refrigerator or heating in a microwave thereby aiding a desired temperature for the item to be carried. While not shown in the present embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that middle chamber 211K″ may also be filled with an insulating material such as foam beads allowing ready movement of 9K and the transfer of securing uniform pressure from outer chambers 211K and 211K′.
Referring now to
Referring now to
Outer pouch side walls 7M, 8M are shown with single layer handles 2M, but it is readily envisioned based on the present disclosure that the present embodiment may be modified by extending inner pouch side walls to form inflatable handles.
In this embodiment a separate member forms a gusset extension 214 joining outer pouch seam 6M′ to inner pouch seam 11M′ along gusset seam 215 to provide a slight restraint on inner pouch member 9M to prevent unintended twisting without restricting relative planar motion between outer pouch side walls 7M, 8M and inner pouch side walls 9M′, 9M″.
A plurality of tack points 217 secure gusset extension 214 to inner pouch perimeter 11M while a plurality of air passages 217 along gusset extension 214 allow ready pressure communication between upper and lower portions of continuous chamber 218. One benefit of the present invention, is that gusset extensions may be made larger than the planar distance between inner and outer pouch members, thereby providing additional flexibility during inflation for inner pouch 9M to adapt to and enfold large items to be held. Thus, while present carry device 1M is shown as capable of laying flat on a supporting surface in an uninflated state, where gusset extensions 214 are expanded carry device 1M will no longer lay flat for storage, but will be beneficially enabled for receiving unusually shaped items for transport requiring greater flexibility.
Referring now to
A plurality of removable and disposable liners 9N′, 9N″, 9N′″ are removably secured within inner pouch member 9N by a series of tearable tack points 53 formed along an opening. An inner pouch seam 11N seals sides of inner pouch member 9N, and respective disposable liners include respective side seals.
As shown in
Referring now to
In the present embodiment of carry device 1O it is envisioned that items of particular delicacy, for example china, may be placed on support member 22O and slid within opening 5O along direction Q prior to inflation via port 3O. After assembly, a user may inflate or deflate carry device 1O to secure the carried item within inner pouch member 9O without relative shifting. Alternatively, a series of very small items may be placed on support member 22O and softly pressed onto on soft lining 221O during inflation. In this embodiment, support member is ideally shaped to fit fully within inner pouch member 9O so that inflation may seal opening 5O, but this is not necessary for complete operation. An additional alternative may provide re-usable coverings for support member 22O allowing easy cleaning and sterilization.
Referring now to
One benefit of the present invention is the additional level of protection afforded by inner pouch member 9P, such that should carry device 1P suffer an unintended deflation, or fail to be inflated, the carry item remains minimally protected. As an additional benefit of the present construction, the ready flexibility of inner pouch member 9P allows carry device 1P to function in the manner previously described and provide a substantially uniform cushioning and securing force on carry items. As the construction of carry device 1P is similar to the previous embodiments, the construction herein may be modified to relate to those previous embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Referring now to
A visual gap 230Q is provided at a bottom portion of outer pouch member 10Q to allow ready visualization of the inner pouch region.
As should also be recognized, is that the present carry device 1Q, and indeed all embodiments of the present invention, may additionally include sealing or securing members 71Q, 71Q used to join sides of inner pouch member 9Q. Sealing members may be adapted to various technologies and sealing needs, and may include Velcro tabs, Velcro strips, Zip-Lock-type key ways, adhesive strips, and semi-adhesive members to aid in securing sides of the inner pouch opening. Where a very tight seal is needed sealing members may be used in parallel to limit access and secure the inner pouch opening.
Referring now to
One advantage of the present embodiment and the use of inner pockets 231, 232 is the ease in packing and securing a carry item within the larger inner pouch members. As shown, a sandwich is retained in the inner pockets to prevent unintended shifting and damage, while more carry items may be stored elsewhere within inner pouch members 9R, 9R′.
While the present embodiments are shown with only one inner pocket, it should be recognized that multiple pockets may be employed, either within inner pouch members 9R, 9R′, or on an outer surface of outer pouch members 10R, 10R′ for consumer convenience. Additionally, the inner pockets may be adapted to hold cold or hot packets to keep carry items at a suitable temperature. Additionally, inner pockets may include a permanently fixed hot or cold pack for user convenience.
Referring now to
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The present embodiment envisions the use of cushioning members 240, such as foam peanuts, within the inflatable region between inner and outer pouch members. After installing a number of cushioning members 240, seams 241 are sealed allowing a user to inflate carry device 1W via port 3W for ready transport. Thus, the present invention envisions the use of cushioning members 240 as a back-up mechanism should carry device 1W become deflated unintentionally. Similarly, carry items placed within inner pouch member 9W would be immediately cushioned prior to the inflation step thereby limiting unintended damage.
Referring now to
During use of carry device 1X, a user inserts a carry item into opening 5X where the carry item is immediately cushioned by open cell foam members 245, 245. As is shown, open cell foam members in cushioning system 242 do not fully expand to fill the region defined between inner and outer pouch members. After item installation, a user inflates respective foam members 245 by opening valves 243 allowing their expansion under normal air pressure. Valves 243 are then closed, trapping expanding air within thermal cushioning system 242. Next, a user inflates the region between inner and outer pouch member via valve 3X pressing foam members onto the carry item and providing a substantially uniform cushioning along its outer surface.
Referring now to
Referring now to
Clamping mechanism 249 employs a spring 251 urging clamping jaws 250 to securely close carry handles 2Z′. A fixing means 253 joins decoration member 252 with clamping jaws 250 and allows ready substitution. It is envisioned, that carry device 1Z may be sold separately form clamp mechanism 249, and clamp mechanism 249 would be sold as a multi-use promotional item allowing alternating use of a variety of decoration members 252 to increase public appeal.
Referring now to
Outer pouch member 110A includes a pair of handle members 102A, 102A on an outer cover member 107A having a bottom crease 105A to aid folding and compaction during non-use. Side gusset members 108A, 108A and bottom side members 108A′, 108A′ join sides of outer cover member 107A in a sealed manner enabling the formation of an inner region between inner and outer pouch members 109A, 110A. A series of outer pouch seams 101A join respective panels into a uniform whole. A series of inner pouch seams 101B join respective panels into a uniform while, as shown. Strap attachment points 104B project from outer cover member 107A for the ready attachment and detachment of a strap 104A for easy carrying.
The present embodiment is shown in a partially inflated manner in
Referring now to
Inner pouch member 129A is formed with a series of foldable and compactable bottom edges and corners via inner pouch bottom gusset 125A inner pouch gusset wings 125A′, and inner pouch gusset flanges 125A″ joining inner pouch side seams 128A, as shown.
Outer pouch member 130A is formed with a series of foldable and compact bottom edges and corners via outer pouch bottom gusset 126A having outer pouch gusset wings 126A′ and outer pouch gusset flanges 126A″ joining outer pouch side seams 127A, as shown.
As with the previous embodiment, the present carry device 120 is able to stand upright in an uninflated manner and is thereby self supporting, but is readily compactable by folding selected wins, gussets, and seams and removing all air within the bounded inflation region.
Referring now to
In each of the carry device embodiments noted above the device is designed for maximum user convenience while enabling a selective use of the inflation process to secure purse items during transport. Those of skill in the art will readily recognize that the alternative designs noted earlier may be readily adapted to the construction process of those carry devices shown in
Referring now to
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Thus, this embodiment proposes, that perforations allow the easy separation of a single carry device 181A and the disposal of bridge members 182A for user convenience. In this manner, the present invention may be adapted to mass commercial use and sold in multi-packs or kits for individual use in homes, schools, food pantries, hospitals, and in industry. These mass-use embodiments are envisioned as single-use embodiments, but re-use is also envisioned.
Referring now to
Referring now to
While nothing herein shall limit the materials that may be used to construct the various components discussed, it is noted that polyethylene, Mylar, and other reasonably strong film-formable plastics and materials are suitable, as is woven nylon and coated nylon, and other textile and non-textile products. As discussed above the use of neoprene, SBR and other artificial and natural rubbers and foams, or artificial and natural leathers may be used to meet the goals and accomplish the constructions noted without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Additionally, while not discussed in a particular embodiment, it is recognized that the various openings and handles may additionally include snaps, buckles, Velcro closures, hooks and other items to aid in securing the carry devices. It is additionally envisioned, that the use of a shoulder strap, back-pack straps, or separable carry handle may be affixed to the present handle systems or to an external fixture point formed on the carry devices. Thus, it is envisioned that the present carry device may be easily modified to accommodate the needs of a variety of users from adults to children, and a variety of styles from sophisticated to playful.
Furthermore, while the present embodiments are portrayed as preferred hand-carry devices, nothing herein shall limit them to such a use. For example, the carry devices herein may be readily adapted as shipping packages for protecting delicate items within an outer shipping container. Alternatively, where carry devices are constructed from a film having a printable external surface, such devices may be employed as inflatable postal envelopes, and may be individually shipped.
It should be apparent to those of skill in the arts of product design that the present embodiment, and indeed all the embodiments described herein may be readily adapted to particular consumer, industrial, or commercial needs without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Alternative examples to those embodiments discussed above, the pouch layers are optionally constructed of linear, low density polyethylene, neoprene, low or mid-density foam, vinyl, coated or sealed paper, mylar, nylon, foil, or other organic or man-made material suitable for the purposes described above. Where recycling or reuse is important to a consumer or manufacture, the materials selected may be recycle-able or of sufficient durability for multiple re-use. Where single-use disposal is important to a consumer or manufacture, the materials selected may be very thin plastic or coated paper suitable for single use. Technologies for sealing, coating, and joining such materials (e.g., thermo fusing via resistance or RF use, gluing, friction sealing, sealed sewing, and other means are known to those of skill in the art of materials joining.
The present invention also allows easy and ready adaptation to a form allowing substantial transport by weight or value. For example, the present invention may be adapted to transport cakes or other precious baked goods, without jarring or damaging the good. Organs may be transported in specially designed adaptations allowing the use of ice, ice-water, warm water, milk, dry-ice, etc., and other transport requirements common in the trade.
As noted above, the present disclosure also envisions adaptation of the present design to allow use as a child's backpack, with straps and a soft exterior coating of a textile, foam, neoprene or other material. Also considered are various bags and transport containers that may optionally include exterior pockets or pouches.
Further alternative embodiments are envisioned allowing the assembly of a kit including one or more carrying devices and a foot pump, a compressed gas supply (He2, N2, Co2, etc.). In further adaptations, the device may be equipped with internal electrical heaters along the inner pouch surface and an electrical lead connectable to a current supply allowing warming of the inner pouch prior to use and then disconnection for transport.
It is also envisioned that the present invention may be provided within a rigid box member, wherein the exterior our outer pouch is bonded to the inside surface of the rigid member and an opening is provided at one end for inner-pouch access. In this way, the present invention may be adopted for use as a mail package with a sealing across the inner pouch and an inflation tab. This embodiment may also be adapted for use as a flexible mail package bonded to paper or an opaque outer membrane. In these embodiments, a user may write directly on the exterior of the box or on the outer surface of the outer pouch, then remove adhesive covers and physically seal the closure and mail the carry device as a postal package.
In the claims, means- or step-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described or suggested herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Thus, for example, although a nail, a screw, and a bolt may not be structural equivalents in that a nail relies on friction between a wooden part and a cylindrical surface, a screw's helical surface positively engages the wooden part, and a bolt's head and nut compress opposite sides of a wooden part, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail, a screw, and a bolt may be readily understood by those skilled in the art as equivalent structures.
Having described at least one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various changes, modifications, and adaptations may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
Claims
1. A carry device, comprising:
- an outer pouch member operably bounding an inner pouch member and defining at least one bounded cavity there between for receiving a selected pressurizing medium;
- said inner pouch member and said outer pouch member including respective inner and outer side walls;
- at least one inner side seam joining inner pouch side walls and at least one outer side seam joining outer pouch side walls forming respective inner and outer pouch members;
- means for providing an valve access to said at least one bounded cavity during a use for transmitting a pressurizing medium relative to said bounded cavity;
- a carry item receiving region within said inner pouch member accessible through an inner pouch opening; and
- said inner pouch side walls and said outer side walls being readily shearable with respect to each other proximate said carry item receiving region during a use, thereby allowing said inner pouch side walls to substantially conform to said carry item without damaging said carry item.
2. A carry device, according to claim 1, further comprising:
- handle members projecting from said inner and outer pouch members sealable joined and in a pressure communication with said bounded cavity during said use for receiving said pressurizing medium, whereby during said inflation said handle members are pressurized and provide a closing urge on opposing sides of said inner opening access to retain said carry item.
3. A carry device, according to claim 2, further comprising:
- at least one gusset member projecting from said inner pouch member to said outer side seam; and
- said at least one gusset enabling a lateral stability of said inner pouch member within said bounded cavity during said use while enabling said inner pouch side walls to remain readily shiftable relative to said outer side walls.
4. A carry device, according to claim 3, wherein:
- at least a portion of said inner pouch member projects beyond an outer side seam of said outer pouch member, whereby said carry device is readily adaptable alternative construction.
5. A carry device, according to claim 1, wherein:
- at least a portion of said inner pouch member is directly connected to at least one of said outer side walls of said outer pouch member.
6. A carry device, comprising:
- an outer pouch member operably bounding an inner pouch member and defining at least one bounded cavity there between for receiving a selected pressurizing medium;
- said inner pouch member and said outer pouch member including respective inner and outer side walls;
- at least one inner side seam joining inner pouch side walls and at least one outer side seam joining outer pouch side walls forming respective inner and outer pouch members;
- means for providing an valve access to said at least one bounded cavity during a use for transmitting a pressurizing medium relative to said bounded cavity;
- a carry item receiving region within said inner pouch member accessible through an inner pouch opening;
- said inner pouch side walls and said outer side walls being readily shearable with respect to each other proximate said carry item receiving region during said use, thereby allowing said inner pouch side walls to substantially conform to said carry item with a substantially uniform pressure;
- handle members projecting from respective said outer pouch members; and
- at least one shaping seal joining selected portions of said outer side walls along said bounded cavity.
7. A carry device, comprising:
- at least a first and a second outer pouch member defining an inner pouch member receiving region there between and forming respective first and second bounded cavities for receiving a selected pressurizing medium;
- an inner pouch member within said inner pouch member receiving region;
- at least one inner side seam joining inner pouch side walls and at least one outer side seam joining outer pouch side walls of said first and second outer pouch members;
- a first and a second valve access means for transmitting a pressurizing medium relative to said first and second bounded cavities during a use;
- a carry item receiving region within said inner pouch member accessible through an inner pouch opening;
- said inner pouch side walls and respective said outer side walls being readily shiftable with respect to each other proximate said carry item receiving region during said use, thereby allowing said inner pouch side walls to substantially conform to said carry item with a substantially uniform pressure; and
- a first and a second handle member projecting from at least respective said first and second outer pouch members, whereby during said use, a closing urge on opposing sides of said inner opening access place said handle members in graspable proximity.
8. A carry device, comprising:
- an outer pouch member operably bounding an inner pouch member and defining at least one bounded cavity there between for receiving a selected pressurizing medium;
- said inner pouch member and said outer pouch member including respective inner and outer side walls;
- means for providing a selective access to said bounded cavity during a use for transmitting a pressurizing medium relative to said bounded cavity;
- a carry item receiving region within said inner pouch member accessible through an inner pouch opening;
- said inner pouch side walls and said outer side walls being readily shearable with respect to each other proximate said carry item receiving region during said use; thereby allowing said inner pouch side walls to substantially conform to said carry item with a substantially uniform pressure;
- handle members projecting from carry device to enable external grasping during said use; and
- a plurality of removable liners within said inner pouch member.
9. A carry device, comprising:
- an outer pouch member operably bounding an inner pouch member and defining at least one bounded cavity there between for receiving a selected pressurizing medium;
- said inner pouch member and said outer pouch member including respective inner and outer side walls;
- means for providing a selective access to said bounded cavity during a use for transmitting a pressurizing medium relative to said bounded cavity;
- a carry item receiving region within said inner pouch member accessible through an inner pouch opening;
- said inner pouch side walls and said outer side walls being readily shearable with respect to each other proximate said carry item receiving region during said use; thereby allowing said inner pouch side walls to substantially conform to said carry item with a substantially uniform pressure;
- handle members projecting from carry device to enable external grasping during said use; and
- at least a portion of at least one of said respective inner and outer side walls being constructed from one of an elastomeric cushioning material and a bubble wrap material; whereby said carry device provides an initial cushioning to said carry item prior to an inflation of said bounded cavity.
10. A carry device, comprising:
- an outer pouch member operably bounding an inner pouch member and defining at least one bounded cavity there between for receiving a selected pressurizing medium;
- said inner pouch member and said outer pouch member including respective inner and outer side walls;
- means for providing a selective access to said bounded cavity during a use for transmitting a pressurizing medium relative to said bounded cavity;
- a carry item receiving region within said inner pouch member accessible through an inner pouch opening;
- said inner pouch side walls and said outer side walls being readily shearable with respect to each other proximate said carry item receiving region during said use; thereby allowing said inner pouch side walls to substantially conform to said carry item with a substantially uniform pressure;
- handle members projecting from carry device to enable external grasping during said use; and
- said inner pouch opening including a sealing system for sealing sides of said inner pouch opening and preventing an unintended loss of said carry item from said carry item receiving region.
11. A carry device; according to claim 1, wherein:
- said inner pouch side walls are formed from a continuous film.
12. A carry device; according to claim 1, further comprising:
- at least a compressible cushioning member within said bounded cavity; whereby said cushioning member enables a secure transport of a carry item despite an unintended deflation.
13. A carry device; according to claim 1, wherein:
- said inner pouch member includes a removable liner support for supporting carry items prior to an inflation of said bounded cavity.
14. A carry device; according to claim 1, wherein:
- at least a bottom gusset is provided on said outer pouch member; whereby said bottom gusset enables said carry device to remain upright on an external support surface.
15. A system for manufacturing carrying devices, comprising:
- forming a series of inflatable carry devices releaseably joined to each other by respective sacrificial members enabling a ready separation there between;
- said carry devices, further comprising: an outer pouch member operably bounding an inner pouch member and defining at least one bounded cavity there between for receiving a selected pressurizing medium; said inner pouch member and said outer pouch member including respective inner and outer side walls; at least one inner side seam joining inner pouch side walls and at least one outer side seam joining outer pouch side walls forming respective inner and outer pouch members; means for providing an valve access to said at least one bounded cavity during a use for transmitting a pressurizing medium relative to said bounded cavity; a carry item receiving region within said inner pouch member accessible through an inner pouch opening; and said inner pouch side walls and said outer side walls being readily shearable with respect to each other proximate said carry item receiving region during a use; thereby allowing said inner pouch side walls to substantially conform to said carry item without damaging said carry item.
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 25, 2005
Publication Date: Feb 14, 2008
Inventors: John R. Swartz (Ridgewood, NJ), Aaron Lown (Tuxedo, NY)
Application Number: 11/568,381
International Classification: B65D 81/15 (20060101); B65D 30/26 (20060101);