SPORT POUCH

The embodiments described herein provide in one aspect a cylindrical carrying case comprising a top panel, a bottom panel, a side panel, a graphic display cover and a strap. The top, bottom and side panels can be configured to define an interior volume and an outer surface of the carrying case. The top, bottom and side panels are substantially inflexible and the top panel is releasably attached to the side panel to define a top opening for inserting items in, or removing items from, the interior volume of the carrying case. The graphic display cover comprises a continuous, transparent panel and is conformable to the shape of the outer surface of the carrying case. The graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case to form a pocket having at least one opening. The strap has a length and first and second ends attached to the carrying case.

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Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The described embodiments relate to containers for carrying items. More particularly, embodiments described herein relate to containers for carrying items that can be customized using interchangeable graphic elements to assist with personal dating, socializing and advertising.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Previously known containers for carrying items include knapsacks and cases. However, there remains a need for improved carrying devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments described herein provide in one aspect a cylindrical carrying case comprising a top panel, a bottom panel, a side panel, a graphic display cover and a strap. The top, bottom and side panels can be configured to define an interior volume and an outer surface of the carrying case. The top, bottom and side panels are substantially inflexible and the top panel is releasably attached to the side panel to define a top opening for inserting items in, or removing items from, the interior volume of the carrying case. The graphic display cover comprises a continuous, transparent panel and is conformable to the shape of the outer surface of the carrying case. The graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case to form a pocket having at least one opening. The strap has a length and first and second ends attached to the carrying case.

The embodiments described herein provide in another aspect a kit comprising a carrying case, a graphic display cover, a graphic substrate and a strap. The carrying case comprises a top panel, a bottom panel and a side panel that define an interior volume and an outer surface of the carrying case. The top, bottom and side panels are substantially inflexible, and the top panel is releasably attached to the side panel to define a top opening for inserting items in, or removing items from, the interior volume of the carrying case. The graphic display cover comprises a continuous, transparent panel, that is conformable to the shape of the outer surface of the carrying case. The graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case to form a pocket. The pocket has at least one opening for at least partially receiving the graphic substrate. The graphic substrate comprises a graphic image. The strap has a length and first and second ends attached to the carrying case.

The embodiments described herein provide in another aspect a carrying case comprising a top panel, a bottom panel, a side panel, a graphic display cover and a strap. The top, bottom and side panels define an interior volume and an outer surface of the carrying case. The graphic display cover comprises a continuous, transparent panel and is conformable to the shape of the outer surface of the carrying case. The graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case to form a pocket having at least one opening. The strap has a length and first and second ends attached to the carrying case.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the embodiments described herein and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings which show at least one exemplary embodiment, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a cylindrical carrying case,

FIG. 2 is a front view of the cylindrical carrying case shown in FIG. 1 showing the graphic display cover partially detached,

FIG. 3a is a front view of the top panel of the cylindrical carrying case,

FIG. 3b is an interior view showing the inside of the top panel of the cylindrical carrying case,

FIG. 3c is a section view of the top panel of the cylindrical carrying case taken along line A-A,

FIG. 4 is a front view showing a cylindrical carrying case with an integral bottom panel,

FIG. 5 is a front view showing an alternative embodiment of a graphic display cover for a cylindrical carrying case,

FIG. 6 is a front view showing a cylindrical carrying case with the graphic display cover detached,

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a semi-cylindrical carrying case,

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a rectangular carrying case,

FIG. 9a is a front view showing a pre-decorated graphic substrate,

FIG. 9b is a front view showing an alternative embodiment of a pre-decorated graphic substrate,

FIG. 9c is a front view showing a customizable graphic substrate.

It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, 20 elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Specific details of the embodiments are set forth, by way of example, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, this description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein in any way, but rather as merely describing possible implementations of the various embodiments described herein.

In the drawings and in the description, like reference numerals will be used to indicate like elements, functions or features as between the drawings and the described embodiments.

Reference is first made to FIGS. 1 and 2, which illustrate a sport pouch 100 that can be used to assist in socializing, advertising and personal dating activities while also carrying school supplies, writing utensils, food and beverages and other items.

In one embodiment, the sport pouch 100, is a cylindrical carrying case that comprises a side panel 102, a top panel 106 and a bottom panel 108 that are configured to define an interior volume of the sport pouch 100 and an outer surface 104. The panels 102, 106 and 108 can be made from nylon, polyvinylchloride (PVC), ABS plastic, acrylic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, steel, aluminum, titanium, wood, any other plastic or metal, or any other material known in the art that can be formed into the desired shape and possesses the necessary material properties. The panels 102, 106 and 108 can be made from the same material, or the panels 102, 106 and 108 can be made from different materials. For example, the panels 102, 106 and 108 can all be made from fiberglass. Alternatively, the side panel 102 and bottom panel 108 can be made from carbon fiber while the top panel 106 is made from aluminum.

The side panel 102 and the bottom panel 108 can be fixedly coupled together such that bottom panel 108 can support the weight of the contents of the sport pouch 100 without detaching from the side panel 102. The bottom panel 108 may be coupled to the side panel 102 using any mechanical or chemical fastening techniques known in the art that can provide the desired connection strength. For example, the side panel 102 and the bottom panel 108 may comprise threaded sections such that the bottom panel 108 can be secured to the top panel 106 using a threaded coupling. The bottom panel 108 may also be connected to the side panel 102 using mechanical fasteners such as rivets, screws, bolts and nails. Alternatively, the bottom panel 108 may be pressure fit to the side panel 102, such that the connection between panels 102 and 108 is maintained by the friction forces between the panels 102 and 108.

In another embodiment, the bottom panel 108 can be attached to the side panel 102 using a chemical adhesive compound such as glue or an epoxy resin. The bottom panel 108 may also be attached to side panel 102 using a combination of fasteners, such as a threaded coupling that is reinforced with glue. The type of fastener used can be based on user preference, manufacturer preference, cost, physical requirements (such as minimum tensile strength or water impermeability) or other selection criteria known in the art.

The top panel 106 can be releasably attached to the side panel 102 such that the top panel 106 can be removed from the side panel 102 allowing access to the interior volume of the sport pouch 100 via the top opening 107, shown in FIG. 2. The sport pouch 100 is shown with the top panel 106 removed in FIG. 2. The top panel 106 can be attached to the side panel 102 using any releasable fastener that allows the top panel 106 to be repeatedly attached and detached when the sport pouch 100 is in use. Examples of releasable fasteners include a threaded coupling, releasable latches or buckles and friction fit. The top panel 106 may comprise a handle 120 to help a user separate the top panel 106 from the side panel 102. The handle 120 can be a pull-ring, as shown in FIG. 1, or the handle 120 can be of any type of handle known in the art. The handle 120 may also be collapsible or moveable such that it will not interfere with the operation of the sport pouch 100. For example, the pull-ring handle 120, shown in FIG. 1, may be pivotally mounted to the top panel 106 such that the user can extend the handle 120 when she wants to remove the top panel 106, and the handle 120 can lay down along a surface of the top panel 106 when not in use.

The sport pouch 100, or a kit comprising the sport pouch 100, further comprises a graphic display cover 110 that can be releasably attached to the outer surface 104 of the side panel 102 by fasteners 122. The graphic display cover 110 is attached to the side panel 102 such that it forms a pocket, with at least one opening, between the graphic display cover 110 and the outer surface 104. The graphic display cover 110 can be conformable to the contour of the outer surface 104 such that curvature of the graphic display cover 110 substantially matches the curvature of the outer surface 104 of the side panel 102. Alternatively, the graphic display cover 110 can be rigid and formed during manufacture to match the curvature of the outer surface 104.

The graphic display cover 110 is substantially transparent, such that an observer can easily see through the graphic display cover 110. The graphic display cover 110 can be formed from a plastic film, lexan, acrylic, a fine mesh screen, glass or any other suitably transparent material. The graphic display cover 110 may be colourless, or it may be made of a coloured, transparent material such as coloured plastic.

In FIG. 1, the graphic display cover 110 is shown in its attached configuration, in which all of the fasteners 122 are engaged and the graphic display cover 110 forms a pocket with the outer surface 104. In FIG. 2, the graphic display cover 110 is shown in a partially-detached configuration. The graphic display cover 110 can be partially or completely detached from the outer cover 104 to allow a user to access the pocket space between the graphic display cover 100 and the outer surface 104.

In FIG. 1, the graphic display cover 110 is shown being attached to the outer surface 104 using two fasteners 122 that extend along the entire vertical length of the graphic display cover 110. Alternatively, the graphic display cover 110 may be attached to the outer surface 104 using a single fastener 122 or a plurality of fasteners 122 positioned along the perimeter of the graphic display panel 110. The fasteners 122 can be any type of releasable and reusable fastener known in the art. For example, the fasteners 122 shown in FIG. 1 can be hook and loop fasteners operable to allow a user to repeatedly attach and detach the graphic display cover 110 from the outer surface 104. Alternatively, the fasteners 122 can be snaps, clips, chemical adhesive, buttons, bolts, magnets or any other releasable and reusable fastener. The pocket formed between the graphic display can be configured to receive a plurality of graphic substrates 112.

The graphic substrates 112 can be configured with a variety of text and graphic information and inserted into the pocket formed between the graphic display cover 110 and the outer surface 104 such that the text and graphic information is visible to an observer. Using a plurality of graphic substrates 112, the user of the sport pouch 100 can communicate with a plurality of observers. For example, the graphic substrate 112 shown in FIG. 1 contains the phrase “Seeking a date Leave a Phone Number!”. The graphic substrate 112 can be selected by a sport pouch 100 user who is entering a social setting and would like to attract the attention of a potential romantic partner. Using the sport pouch 100, the user can communicate the fact that she is “Seeking a date” to a plurality of other people she may encounter while carrying the sport pouch 100. Upon reading the message contained on the graphic substrate 112 of the sport pouch 100, an observer who is romantically interested in the user may approach the user and give her a phone number. Alternatively, if the observer is also carrying a sport pouch 100, the observer may insert a graphic substrate 112 that reads, “I am also seeking a date. Call me @ 555-1234!” in response to the user's original message. In addition to a dating message, the graphic substrate 112 can carry a variety of personal, professional or commercial information. The graphic substrate 112 may resemble a traditional business card or it may contain promotional information relating to a new product. Additional examples of graphic substrates 112 are discussed in greater detail below.

The graphic substrate 112 can be formed from any material that can carry a textual or graphic image and can be at least partially received within the pocket formed between the graphic display cover 110 and the outer surface 104. That is, the graphic substrate 112 can be formed from paper, cardboard, plastic, fabric, leather, vinyl, a photograph, metal foil or any other suitable material. In addition, the textual or graphic information can be applied to the graphic substrate 112 in any known process that is suitable for the particular graphic substrate 112 material selected. That is, the text and graphic application process can be printing, handwriting, silk screening, thermography, embossing, photography, developing, painting, engraving, carving, cutting, stamping, and letter pressing.

The sport pouch 100 can be portable, and can comprise a strap 114 that can be used to carry the sport pouch 100. For example, a user may place the strap 1 14 over her shoulder such that she can carry the sport pouch 100 and still have her hands free for other purposes. The length of the strap 114 may be adjustable such that the length of the strap 114 can be varied to accommodate a variety of user preferences or plurality of different users. The strap 114 can be a woven nylon strap, a leather strap, a flexible plastic strap or any other type of carrying strap known to those skilled in the art with the desired mechanical properties. The strap 114 may be connected to the side panel 102 of the sport pouch 100 using strap anchors 116.

The strap anchors 116 can be rotatably attached to the side panel 102 such that the sport pouch 100 lies in a comfortable position against the body of the user when the sport pouch 100 is being carried by the strap 114. The strap anchors can be made from nylon, polyvinylchloride (PVC), steel, aluminum, titanium, any other plastic or metal, or any other material known in the art that can be formed into the desired shape and possesses the necessary material properties. The strap anchors 116 can be rotatably attached to the side panel 102 using any type of rotating fastener known in the art. For example, the strap anchors 116 may be attached to the side panel 102 using rivets, nails, nuts and bolts or pins or other suitable rotating fasteners.

Spacers 118 can be installed between the side panel 102 and the strap anchors 116 to increase the distance between the side panel 102 and the strap anchors 116, thereby allowing the strap anchors 116 to rotate without contacting, or interfering with, the top panel 106. The spacers 118 can be configured to receive the fastener used to attached the strap anchors 116 to the side panel 102 and to keep the strap anchors 116 at a predetermined distance from the outer surface 104 of the side panel 102. The spacers 118 may comprise a single spacing element, such as a hollow cylinder or tube of the desired length surrounding the fastener connecting the side panel 102 and the strap anchors 116. Alternatively, the spacers 118 may comprise a plurality of thin spacing elements that can be combined to create the desired spacing distance. For example, the plurality of spacing elements can be a plurality of washers, a plurality of o-rings or any other relatively thin elements. The spacers 118 can be made from nylon, PVC, steel, aluminum, titanium, any other plastic or metal, or any other material known in the art that can be formed into the desired shape and possesses the necessary material properties.

FIG. 3a shows the top panel 106 removed from the sport pouch 100, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2; The top panel 106 shown in FIG. 3a comprises a pull-ring type handle 120 as described above. FIG. 3b is a perspective view that shows the interior of the top panel 106 and mirror 124. The top panel 106 may comprise a mirror 124 that is mounted inside the top panel 106 such that the mirror 124 is hidden from view when the top panel 106 is attached to the sport pouch 100. The mirror 124 can become visible when the user removes the top panel 106 from the sport pouch 100. When the sport pouch 100 is worn in social situations, the user of a sport pouch 100 may wish to check her hair to ensure that it is styled properly. Alternatively, the user may wish to inspect, or re-apply, her make-up or lip-gloss when she is entering a social event or potential dating environment. The mirror 124 installed within the top panel 106 may be used for such personal hygiene purposes. The mirror 124 may also be used for a variety of other purposes such as reflecting sunlight, and looking around corners.

FIG. 3c is a section view taken along line A-A shown in FIG. 3a. FIG. 3c shows the mirror 124 received within the top panel 106. The mirror 124 may be held in place by frictional forces between the mirror 124 and the top panel 106, chemical adhesives, mechanical fasteners or any other appropriate coupling means. FIG. 3c also shows pull-ring handle 120 and rivet 128 that is used to attach the handle 120 to the top panel 106. While a rivet 128 is shown, it is understood that the handle 120 can be attached to the top panel using rivets, nails, nuts and bolts, pins, glue or any other chemical or mechanical fastener.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of the sport pouch 100, wherein the bottom panel 108 is integrally formed with the side panel 102. The side panel 102 and the bottom panel 108 may be integrally formed as a result of a manufacturing process such as casting, injection moulding, moulding, or machining. Alternatively, the side panel 102 and the bottom panel 108 can originate as separate panels that are integrally joined during an assembly process such as welding, sintering or other assembly techniques known in the art. In addition to the integrally connected side and bottom panels 102 and 108, the sport pouch 100 shown in FIG. 4 comprises a graphic display cover 110 attached to the outer surface 104 by fasteners 122 forming a pocket to receive a graphic substrate 112 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). The sport pouch 100 also comprises a top panel 106 that is releasably attachable to the side panel 102 to cover the top opening 107 when the sport pouch 100 is in use. The top panel comprises a handle 120. While they are not shown in FIG. 4, the sport pouch 100 may also comprise spacers 118, strap anchors 116, adjustable strap 114 and mirror 124 (as shown in FIGS. 3a through 3c).

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of a sport pouch 100 with a graphic display cover 110 forming a pocket with the outer surface 104 that only partially receives the graphic substrate 112. For clarity of illustration, the top panel 106 and the adjustable strap 114 have been omitted from this figure; however, it is understood that all embodiments of the sport pouch 100 may include the top panel 106 and an adjustable strap 114 attached to the strap anchors 116 and spacers 118.

The graphic display cover 110 shown in FIG. 5 is configured such that it is only approximately half the height of the graphic substrate 112. Therefore, when the graphic display cover 110 is attached to the outer surface 104 using fasteners 122, the pocket created between the graphic display cover 110 and the outer surface 104 can only receive approximately half the graphic substrate 112. When the graphic substrate 112 is only partially received behind the graphic display cover 110, a portion of graphic substrate 112 can remain exposed for subsequent modification and customization by the sport pouch user 100 or an observer. For example, the graphic substrate 112 shown in FIG. 5 contains the phrase, “Seeking a date. Leave a phone number!” followed by an arrow that points toward three numbered, blank text fields. If the graphic display cover 110 completely covered the graphic substrate 112, the three blank text fields may not be easily accessible. However, when the graphic display cover 110 only partially covers the graphic substrate 112, a portion of the graphic substrate 112 (in this example the upper portion) is easily accessible. Therefore, when a user is carrying a sport pouch 100 as shown in FIG. 5, observers who are interested in obtaining a date with the user can easily write their phone numbers on the exposed portion of the graphic substrate 112. This configuration may be advantageous in any situation that may require rapid additions, changes or updates to the information provided on the graphic substrate 112.

FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the sport pouch 100 in which the graphic display cover 110 has been completely detached from the outer surface 104. Such a configuration may be desired if the user does not wish to display any information, or if the user does not have an appropriate graphic substrate. In the absence of a graphic substrate 112, a user may simply choose to leave the graphic display cover 110 in place, despite the fact that the pocket will be empty. However, a user may not like the aesthetic appearance of an empty pocket on the side of the sport pouch 100. If the user does not wish to leave an empty pocket visible, the user can completely remove the graphic display cover 110 to reveal the underlying portion of the outer surface 104 as shown in FIG. 5. In order to improve the rough, unattractive look of fasteners 122, the user may attach cover panels 126 that can be configured to provide a pleasing aesthetic look.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show sport pouches 100 that have non-cylindrical cross-sections. FIG. 7 shows a sport pouch with a semi-circular cross-section. As shown, the sport pouch 100 comprises a side panel 102, a bottom panel 108, a graphic display cover 110 and fasteners 122. The graphic display cover 110 is configured to define a pocket between the graphic display cover 110 and the outer surface 104 for receiving a graphic substrate 112. In FIG. 7, the graphic substrate 112 comprises the text message “Just saying hello to you!” While the graphic display cover 110 and graphic substrate 112 are shown on the flat side of the side panel 102, they can also be positioned on the curved side of the semi-cylindrical side panel 102.

FIG. 8 shows a parallelpiped rectangular sport pouch 100. For any non-cylindrical embodiments of the sport pouch 100 (including the embodiment shown in FIG. 7), the side panel 102 may be a single, integrally formed panel or the side panel 102 may comprise a plurality of separate panels joined together using any of the joining and coupling methods described above. As shown in FIG. 8, the rectangular sport pouch 100 comprises a side panel 102, a bottom panel 108, a graphic display cover 110 and fasteners 122. The graphic display cover 110 is configured to define a pocket between the graphic display cover 110 and the outer surface 104 for receiving a graphic substrate 112. In FIG. 8, the graphic substrate 112 comprises a decorative picture of a nature scene. While the graphic display cover 110 and graphic substrate 112 are shown on the longer side of the rectangular side panel 102, they can also be positioned on the shorter side of the rectangular side panel 102.

Although not shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the non-cylindrical sport pouches 100 may also comprise an appropriately shaped top panel 106 and adjustable strap 114, as well as any of the other features described above with reference to FIGS. 1 through 6.

FIGS. 9a through 9c illustrate examples of graphic substrates 112. FIG. 9a shows a rectangular graphic substrate 112 bearing the message “I'm going to the school dance, are you?” This graphic substrate 112 contains a pre-decorated section 130 with a social message and could be carried on the sport pouch 100 of a student who wants to publicize her dancing plans to her classmates and potential dates. Graphic substrates 112 of this kind may be produced in bulk and distributed by a school's administration or student council in order to promote upcoming school events and encourage socializing amongst students.

FIG. 9b shows an alternative embodiment of a graphic substrate 112 that is wavy instead of rectangular. The wavy shape of the graphic substrate 112 in FIG. 9b is merely one example of a shaped graphic substrate 112 that can be used to customize and individualize a user's sport pouch 100. Graphic substrates 112 with non-rectangular shapes may create more visually interesting displays and may get noticed by an increased number of observers. The wavy graphic substrate 112 shown in FIG. 9b contains a pre-decorated section 130 with the message “I'm going to the school dance, are you?” to attract the attention of observers who may also be attending the school dance in question. As described above, the wavy graphic substrate 112 may be produced in bulk. Alternatively, the graphic substrate 112 material may be chosen such that an individual user can modify the graphic substrate 112. For example, a school may distribute rectangular graphic substrates 112 to each student in the weeks preceding a scheduled school dance. If the graphic substrates 112 are printed on an appropriate material, such as paper or fabric, each individual student may be able to modify the shape of the graphic substrate 112 to attract more attention and demonstrate his or her creativity. The wavy graphic substrate 112 of FIG. 9b is one example of a shaped graphic substrate; other shapes could include triangular, circular and any other shapes that a user can create.

FIG. 9c shows another embodiment of a customizable graphic substrate 112. The graphic substrate 112 shown in FIG. 9 comprises a pre-decorated section 130 and a customizable section 132. In the example shown, the pre-decorated section 130 contains the textual information “My name is ______ & I like to party!” and the customizable section 132 comprises the blank area on the graphic substrate 112 where the user can write her name. The customizable section 132 of a graphic substrate 112 can also comprise a variety of user created text, user created images and user created graphics. Using the customizable section 132, a sport pouch 100 user can design and decorate a graphic substrate 112 to reflect his or her individual style, attitude and mood.

The customizable section 132 of the graphic substrate 112 may be a one-time use or multi-use feature. If the customizable section 132 is of a one-time use configuration, a user can decorate the graphic substrate 112 with a first user-created design and the user-created design can be unchangeable and fixed on the graphic substrate 112. However, if the customizable section 132 is of a multi-time use configuration, a user can decorate the graphic substrate 112 with a first user-created design, remove the first user-created design (by erasing or similar process) and create a second user-created design on the same graphic substrate 112. These steps can be repeated multiple times, such that a single, multi-use customizable section 132 of a graphic substrate 112 can be re-used a plurality of times.

A sport pouch 100 user may also carry a plurality of individual graphic substrates 112 that can be interchangeably placed behind the graphic display cover 110 over a period of time. Using a plurality of graphic substrates 112, a user can update the information shown on her sport pouch 100 to reflect her current feelings and to be appropriate for a plurality of social situations. The plurality of graphic substrates 112 may comprise pre-decorated sections 130 and both single-use and multi-use customizable sections 132.

While the above description provides examples of the embodiments, it will be appreciated that some features and/or functions of the described embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. Accordingly, what has been described above has been intended to be illustrative of the invention and non-limiting and it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A cylindrical carrying case comprising:

a top, a bottom and a side panel configured to define an interior volume and an outer surface, wherein the top, bottom and side panel are substantially inflexible and the top panel is releasably attached to the side panel to define a top opening for inserting items in and removing items from, the interior volume of the carrying case,
a graphic display cover comprising a continuous, transparent panel, wherein the graphic display cover is conformable to the shape of the outer surface of the carrying case and the graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case to form a pocket having at least one opening, and
a strap having a length and a first and a second end attached to the carrying case, and the length of the strap is adjustable such that the strap can be lengthened or shortened.

2. The carrying case of claim 1 wherein the top, bottom and side panel are formed from a material chosen from a plurality of materials, the plurality of materials consisting of nylon, polyvinylchloride (PVC), ABS plastic, acrylic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, steel, aluminum, titanium, wood, plastic and metal, and the graphic display cover is formed from a clear plastic film.

3. The carrying case of claim 1 wherein the graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case using a hook and loop fastener.

4. The carrying case of claim 3 further comprising a cover panel for covering the hook and loop fastener when the graphic display cover is not coupled to the carrying case.

5. A kit comprising:

a carrying case comprising a top, a bottom and a side panel configured to define an interior volume and an outer surface, wherein the top, bottom and side panel are substantially inflexible and the top panel is releasably attached to the side panel to define a top opening for inserting items in and removing items from, the interior volume of the carrying case,
a graphic display cover comprising a continuous, transparent panel, wherein the graphic display cover is conformable to the shape of the outer surface of the carrying case and the graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case to form a pocket having at least one opening configured to at least partially receive a graphic substrate comprising a graphic image, and
a strap having a length and a first and a second end attached to the carrying case, and the length of the strap is adjustable such that the strap can be lengthened or shortened.

6. The kit of claim 5 further comprising a plurality of graphic substrates configured to be interchangeably receivable in the pocket.

7. The kit of claim 5 wherein the graphic substrate is formed from a material chosen from a group consisting of paper, vinyl, cardboard, fabric, plastic, and metal.

8. The kit of claim 5 wherein the graphic substrate is configured to fit entirely between the outer surface of the chamber and the graphic display cover.

9. The kit of claim 5 wherein the graphic substrate comprises a plurality of graphic images.

10. The kit of claim 5 wherein the graphic substrate is configured to be reusable such that a first graphic image can be applied to the graphic substrate and then the first graphic image can be removed from the graphic substrate and replaced by a second graphic image.

11. The kit of claim 5 wherein the graphic image is formed on the graphic substrate using a technique chosen from a plurality of techniques, the plurality of techniques consisting of printing, handwriting, silk screening, thermography, embossing, photography, developing, painting, engraving, carving, cutting, stamping, and letter pressing.

12. The kit of claim 5 wherein the graphic substrate comprises at least one of a text and a graphic information, and the text and graphic information is, at least one of black and white, grayscale and colour.

13. The kit of claim 5 wherein the graphic substrate comprises a pre-formed image portion and a customizable portion wherein the customizable portion can be modified by a user.

14. The kit of claim 5 wherein the graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case using a hook and loop fastener.

15. The kit of claim 14 further comprising a cover panel for covering the hook and loop fastener when the graphic display cover is not coupled to the carrying case.

16. A carrying case comprising:

a top, a bottom and a side panel configured to define an interior volume and an outer surface,
a graphic display cover comprising a continuous, transparent panel, wherein the graphic display cover is conformable to the shape of the outer surface of the carrying case and the graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the carrying case to form a pocket having at least one opening, and
a strap having a length and a first and a second end attached to the carrying case, and the length of the strap is adjustable such that the strap can be lengthened or shortened.

17. The carrying case of claim 16 wherein the top, bottom and side panels are formed from a substantially inflexible material and the top panel is releasably attached to the side panel to define a top opening in the carrying case for inserting items in, or removing items from, the interior volume of the carrying case.

18. The carrying case of claim 16 wherein the container is cylindrical.

19. The carrying case of claim 16 wherein the top, bottom and side panels are formed from a material chosen from a plurality of materials, the plurality of materials consisting of nylon, polyvinylchloride (PVC), ABS plastic, acrylic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, steel, aluminum, titanium, wood, plastic and metal, and the graphic display cover is releasably coupled to the outer surface of the container using hook and loop fasteners.

20. The carrying case of claim 1 further comprising a mirror mounted to an inner surface of the top panel.

Patent History
Publication number: 20090277548
Type: Application
Filed: May 8, 2008
Publication Date: Nov 12, 2009
Applicant: PATTER MANUFACTURING (Scarborough)
Inventor: Michael Patterson (Scarborough)
Application Number: 12/117,108
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Cover (150/105); Combined (150/106); Adjustable (150/108); With Handle (190/115); Wall Detail (190/124)
International Classification: A45C 3/08 (20060101); A45C 13/30 (20060101); A45C 3/00 (20060101);