Lateral Restraining Device for a Backpack and a Method for Forming the Same

Abstract

A lateral restraining device for preventing lateral movement of a backpack including at least two vertically extending curbs situated on an anterior surface of the backpack, the curbs corresponding to a respective lateral side of the wearer and configured to grip the wearer. A convertible lateral restraining device for preventing movement of a backpack on a wearer including at least two flaps of material and at least two straps, where the two flaps may be positioned in a flat position to act as a torso pad or in a rolled position secured by the straps to act as a lateral restraining device. A method of forming a lateral restraining device from a torso pad is also provided.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 61/181,504, filed on May 27, 2009, entitled Lateral Restraining Device for a Backpack and a Method for Forming the Same, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

a. Field of the Invention

The following description relates to backpacks, and more particularly to devices for resisting lateral movement of backpacks.

b. Background Art

Backpacks can shift from side to side in many applications due to the type of activity and the type of fit of the backpack. During even light activity, movement of the wearer combined with the weight of the backpack can cause the backpack to shift across a wearer's back. Also, backpacks are often fitted to be supported near the bottom of the backpack by a wearer's lumbar and hip region so the weight of the backpack is transferred to the backpacker's legs and not their back. In this situation, due to support from the bottom, backpacks can become somewhat top-heavy adding to their tendency to shift out of position. Backpack shoulder straps may act to balance the backpack, but may not be completely effective.

The attire of the wearer also may contribute to this shifting tendency of a backpack. Often, backpackers wear clothing constructed of fabrics such as nylon, polyester, or coated fabrics. These fabrics can be slippery, thus allowing a backpack to slide from side to side. In military applications, backpacks are often worn over vests which may include protective armor. In this application, the protective armor may create both a hard and smooth surface across a wearer's back. The hardness of the armor, combined with the smooth surface, often creates an even higher tendency for the backpack to shift laterally.

As can be appreciated, when backpacks shift from side to side, the wearer may need to continually monitor the position of the backpack and adjust its position. Additionally, the movement of the backpack may cause a wearer to continually compensate to maintain their balance. In some cases, a shifting backpack may cause a wearer to lose their balance and fall. In other cases, the shifting weight can cause discomfort and even injury to a wearer's back.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art to prevent backpacks from shifting when worn for a variety of activities, when fitted to be supported by the hip region, or when worn over slippery attire.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a lateral restraining device for preventing lateral movement of a backpack on a wearer is provided. The lateral restraining device may include at least two vertically extending curbs situated on an anterior surface of the backpack. Each of the curbs may correspond to a respective lateral side of the wearer and be configured to grip the wearer. The present embodiment may also include gripping material on anterior and interior surfaces of the curbs and gripping material on an anterior surface of the backpack between the curbs. The present embodiment may be adapted to grip an armor plate inside a vest worn by the wearer, where the curbs are separated by a distance substantially equal to the width of the armor plate in the vest.

In another embodiment, a convertible lateral restraining device for preventing movement of a backpack on a wearer is provided. The convertible device may include at least two flaps of material with an interior edge and an exterior edge where the flaps are fixedly attached along their exterior edge to the surface of the backpack. The flaps may be removably attachable along their interior edge to the surface of the backpack and to the other respective flap of material. The convertible device may also include at least two straps with a first end and a second end. The first end may be fixedly attached to the surface of the backpack and the second end may be removably attachable to the backpack. The at least two flaps may be positioned in a flat position to act as a torso pad or in a rolled position to act as a lateral restraining device. In some embodiments, the convertible device may further include gripping material located on an anterior surface and an interior surface of the at least two rolled flaps of material. The convertible device may further include gripping material located on an anterior surface and an interior surface of the strap when positioned around the at least two rolled flaps of material. The present embodiment may further include gripping material secured to the anterior surface of the backpack and located between the exterior edges of the at least two flaps.

In yet another embodiment, a method of forming a lateral restraining device for a backpack is provided. In this embodiment, the backpack may include a convertible torso pad with at least two flaps removably connected at respective inside edges and the inside edge may further be removably connected to the backpack. The method may include disconnecting the inside edges of the at least two flaps from each other and from the backpack, rolling each of the at least two flaps in opposite directions toward the outside edges of the backpack, and securing each of the at least two flaps with at least one strap. The method may further include adjusting the at least two rolled flaps to a tightness to accommodate an armor plate of a wearer.

While multiple embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, by those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the following disclosure, the invention is capable of modifications in various aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an anterior surface of a backpack equipped with a lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a detailed view of a lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments.

FIGS. 3A-3C are detailed top views of a lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an anterior surface of a backpack depicting the attachment of a lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a posterior face of a backpack equipped with a lateral restraining device positioned on a wearer according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an anterior surface of a backpack frame equipped with a lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a posterior face of a backpack frame equipped with a lateral restraining device positioned on a wearer according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 8 is an exploded isometric view of an anterior surface of a backpack bag and frame depicting the attachment of a lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of an anterior surface of a backpack equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device in a torso pad condition according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a front view of an anterior surface of a backpack equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device in a torso pad condition according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 11 is a detailed view of a convertible lateral restraining device in a torso pad condition according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a detailed view of a convertible lateral restraining device depicting a hook and loop attachment between two opposing flaps of a torso pad according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 13 is a detailed view of a convertible lateral restraining device depicting the process of rolling one of the flaps to form a curb according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a detailed view of a convertible lateral restraining device further depicting rolling a second flap to form a second curb and unfolding the straps used to secure the rolled flaps according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 15 is a detailed view of a convertible lateral restraining device in a restraining device condition according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a posterior face of a backpack frame equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a posterior face of a backpack frame equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device positioned on a wearer according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 18 is an exploded top view of a backpack equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device in relation to a wearer according to certain embodiments.

FIGS. 19A and 19B are detailed views of a convertible lateral restraining device in progressive stages as the device is converted from a torso pad to a lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 20 is a side view of a wearer and a backpack equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device in a torso pad condition according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 21 is a side view of a wearer and a backpack equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device in a restraining condition according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 22 is an exploded isometric view of a backpack equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device depicting the position of the device on a wearer according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of a convertible lateral restraining device depicting the position of the device relative to an armor plate in a vest according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 24 is a transparent view of an anterior surface of a vest with an armor plate depicting the position of the lateral restraining device relative to the armor plate according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 25 is a transparent view of an anterior surface of a vest with an armor plate depicting the position of the lateral restraining device relative to the armor plate and further outlining the position of the backpack according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart of a method for forming a lateral restraining device for a backpack with a convertible torso pad.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention provide lateral restraining devices for resisting lateral motion of a backpack on a wearer's back. The lateral restraining devices may be positioned on a wearer's back and used to arrest lateral motion of a backpack that may otherwise occur due to the top-heavy nature of a backpack supported by the hip region of a wearer, and due to the activity of the wearer and/or the attire over which the backpack is worn. Lateral restraining devices may be used in military applications, such as where soldiers wear vests equipped with insertable armor plates, in order to provide a device that fits over armor plates and facilitate stabilizing backpacks or other articles that may otherwise tend to shift laterally due to the smooth hard surface created by armor plates or other items.

In some embodiments, the lateral restraining devices may be curb like and extend vertically on each side of a backpack such that the backpack complements the contours of a wearer's back and associated clothing. The devices may include gripping material between the curbs and on the surface of the curbs to provide further resistance to lateral movement. In certain implementations, the lateral restraining devices may be adapted for military applications to allow nesting of the armor plate of a vest between the curbs of the device. In each case, the curb like structure may interact with the lateral portion of the wearer's back, the wearer's clothing, or the armor plate, and thus resist lateral motion of the pack. Lateral restraining devices for resisting lateral movement of a backpack, according to the present invention, are more fully described herein with reference to the figures.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a backpack 100 equipped with a lateral restraining device 110 according to certain embodiments of the invention. The backpack 100 includes a bag 101 for carrying contents, an anterior surface 102, and a lateral restraining device 110 with curbs 140 and gripping material 132, 142 arranged on the anterior surface 102. The backpack 100 also includes a lumbar pad 160, a lap belt 162, and shoulder straps 164 for positioning, supporting and/or balancing the weight of the backpack 100 on the wearer.

The lateral restraining device 110 with curbs 140 and gripping material 132, 142 may be arranged at about the mid-height of the backpack 100, approximately midway between the top of the bag 101 and the lumbar pad 160. The lateral restraining device 110 may also be approximately centered across the anterior surface 102 of the backpack 100 causing the distance from the center of the device to each exterior side of the backpack 100 to be substantially the same. The location shown may allow the lateral restraining device 110 to be located in an area corresponding to a torso region of a wearer. The lateral restraining device 110 may be approximately equal in width to the backpack 100 and may have a height of up to 6 to 12 inches or more. However, as can be appreciated, the lateral restraining device 110 shown may be located and sized according to the size and shape of the person using the lateral restraining device, or the size, shape, and location of the attire over which it is worn.

The lumbar pad 160, lap belt 162 and shoulder straps 164 of backpack 100, in addition to positioning, supporting, and/or balancing the backpack 100, may each be adjusted in order to position the lateral restraining device 110 at the torso region of the wearer. For example, the shoulder straps 164 may be tightened in order to move the lateral restraining device closer to the wearer or higher up on the wearer's body in order to provide a desired lateral restraining device 110 fit. The distance between the lateral restraining device 110 and the lumbar pad 160 and/or belt 162 may be adjusted to provide a desired positioning of the lateral restraining device 110 in the mid-thoracic region of the back and the lumbar pad 160 and belt 162 in the lower lumbar region. In addition, according to certain implementations, the lumbar pad 160, lap belt 162 and/or shoulder straps 164 may include gripping material in areas that may be in contact with a wearer's clothing. For example, lumbar pad 160 may include a patch of gripping material positioned in an area corresponding to a wearer's lower lumbar region, which may facilitate stabilizing the backpack on the wearer.

As shown in more detail in FIG. 2, the lateral restraining device 110 includes curbs 140 with gripping material 132 arranged on an anterior 134 and interior 136 surface of the curbs 140, and a gripping material 142 arranged on a medial surface 145.

According to FIG. 2, two vertically extending curbs 140 are located adjacent to the anterior surface 102 of the backpack 100 near the exterior side edges of the backpack 100. The curbs 140 may be positioned substantially parallel to each other and parallel to the vertical plane defined by the anterior surface 102 of the backpack 100. The curbs 140 shown are cylindrically shaped and have a substantially constant cross-section throughout their length. The curbs 140 may be made solely of a fabric material or may have a core (e.g., rigid, semi-rigid or soft core) with a fabric wrap. Each curb 140 may have a diameter of up to 0.5 to 4 inches or more.

Curbs 140 of lateral restraining device 110 may be located and sized according to the size and shape of the wearer and/or the size, shape, and location of the attire over which the lateral restraining device 110 is worn. As such, the curbs 140 may be positioned nearer to the inside portion of the backpack 100 rather than near the exterior edges. In addition, curbs 140 may be flexible or movable so as to move or compress the curbs 140 outward when the lateral restraining device 110 is worn, which may assist in fitting the lateral restraining device 110 to the contours of a wearer's back or article of clothing. Moreover, the curbs 140 may be positioned in other than a parallel condition. For example, the curbs 140 may be positioned in a truncated ‘V’ shape to accommodate the tapered shape of the human back or a tapered armor plate. Curbs 140 may also take other shapes suitable for positioning and securing the lateral restraining device to the wearer. For example, the curbs 140 may have an inward or outward bowed shape. Rather than the round cross-section shown and described, the curbs 140 may also take on a rectangular or triangular cross-sectional shape or any other grip accommodating shape. Additionally, the cross-section may vary from top to bottom as required by the conditions in which it is used. For example, the cross-sectional size may increase in areas most likely to grip the wearer and decrease in those areas less likely to engage the wearer. Other configurations are available and are within the scope of the invention.

The gripping material 132 arranged on the anterior 134 and interior 136 surface of curbs 140 may fully or partially cover each of the curbs 140. In certain implementations, the gripping material 132 may extend the full height of the curbs 140. Alternatively, the gripping material 132 may extend about the curbs 140 in horizontal or vertical stripes or patterns in order to cover all or a portion of the anterior 134 and/or interior 136 surface of curbs 140.

The lateral restraining device 110 may also include a medial surface 145 disposed between the two vertically extending curbs 140, which may be defined by a height equal to the vertical dimension of the vertically extending curbs 140 and a width equal to the horizontal distance between the curbs 140. According to certain implementations, the gripping material 142 may fully or partially cover the medial surface 145. In certain implementations, the gripping material 142 extends across a central region of the medial surface 145 and along the full height of the medial surface 145. Alternatively, the gripping material 142 may extend over all or a portion of the medial surface.

In alternative embodiments, either the medial surface 145, the curbs 140, or both may be made of a gripping material.

According to the present invention, gripping material, such as the gripping material 132 on the curbs 140 and/or the gripping material 142 on the medial surface of lateral restraining device 110, may be composed of various tacky, adhesive and/or gummy materials. In particular, the interface between the gripping material and the wearer may result in frictional, traction, adhesive, and/or compression forces, that facilitate maintaining a desired position of a backpack or other article for transport on the back. In certain embodiments, a tacky gripping material may have grip-like properties when interfaced with another material. In addition or alternatively, a gripping material that has adhesive properties may adhere slightly with another material. In further embodiments, a gripping material that is gummy may adhere to another material when compressed, for example.

The gripping materials on various portions of a lateral restraining device 110 or a backpack 100 in the embodiments described may be constructed of a variety of materials that impart tackiness, stickiness, adhesion or grip-like properties. The gripping material provided on the various parts of the lateral restraining device 110 or backpack 100 may be the same or different from the gripping materials provided on other parts of the lateral restraining device 110 or backpack 100. According to some embodiments, gripping materials may be formed from materials such as Knew-Tek™ Black Pigskin (HTI-KT-PS-01, manufactured by Harrison Technologies, Inc.), which is a polyurethane coated polyester knit material. Other materials that provide built-in grip and elastomeric properties are silicone polymers/elastomers, described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,625,900, issued on May 6, 1997, entitled High grip glove, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. In further embodiments, the gripping materials may be constructed of hook and loop, corduroy, or another gripping textile.

The gripping material may be formed from a patch or from tacky thread or yarn that is woven into lateral restraining device 110 or backpack 100. Alternatively, a combination of a gripping patch and tacky thread may be used. Tacky thread or yarn may have a nap, e.g., have a rug-like appearance, or may be closely woven into the backpack. Alternatively, the gripping material may be a sprayed-on or brushed-on wet material that, once dry, is characteristically tacky and/or slightly adhesive and/or high friction. In one embodiment, a sprayed-on material may be a spray coating containing a traction material, e.g., sand or sand-like material. In another embodiment, a wet material applied to a garment may be embossed when drying, e.g. pebble embossed, which results in a gripping material region.

In some implementations, regions of gripping material, whether in patch, woven, sprayed or other form, may have certain shapes or layouts. For example, fixing regions formed of gripping material may form an oval, square, rectangular or irregular shape, e.g., a shape matching the thoracic and/or lumbar region of a wearer or a shape matching an armor plate or portion thereof. In addition, fixing regions may be solid, e.g., filled-in with fixing material, or may be a region with fixing (treated) portions and untreated portions. For example a fixing region may comprise a relief or embossed pattern, e.g. interspaced structures (bumps, pyramids, points, waves) surrounded by untreated portions. In a further configuration, a filled-in region of gripping material may also comprise a relief pattern.

FIG. 3A shows a top view of a lateral restraining device 110 according to certain embodiments. As shown, the medial surface 145 of the lateral restraining device 110 may be located adjacent to the anterior surface 102 of the backpack 100. Alternatively, it may be spaced a distance away from the anterior surface 102 of the backpack, or may comprise the surface of the backpack bag 101. The medial surface 145 may be inset from the anterior surface 134 of the curbs 140 to define a recess dimension 141 of the lateral restraining device 110.

The curbs 140 may be attached to the backpack 100 in several ways. In the case of a curb 140 made with a rigid core and a fabric wrap, the core may be offset from the backpack 100 with brackets and wrapped with a fabric as shown on the left curb 140 of FIG. 3A. Alternatively, the core of the curb 140 may comprise a portion of an oblong shaped member of the backpack frame creating a bull nose, to which a fabric may be affixed as shown on the right curb 140 of FIG. 3A. In the case of a curb 140 made solely of fabric, an outer layer of material may be used to closely surround a padding material or material may be continually rolled to create a curb 140. Other methods and techniques are available for creating formed fabric shapes and brackets and connections, all of which are within the scope of the invention.

In further reference to FIG. 3A, it is noted that the cylindrical shape of the curbs 140, together with the gripping material 132 on the surface of the curb 140, may create a lateral restraining device 110 that is effective to arrest lateral movement of the backpack 100 in several positions relative to the wearer or an armor plate 146 of the wearer. With respect to an armor plate 146, the intersection between the armor plate 146 and curb 140 may occur anywhere from approximately 2 o'clock 191 on the left curb 140 (10 o'clock on the right curb 140) to approximately 6 o'clock 193 on the curb 140 and the lateral restraining device 110 may still be effective. As the intersection between an armor plate and the curb approaches the 6 o'clock 193 location, the gripping material may play a larger role in resisting the lateral movement of the armor plate by supplementing the bearing type resistance provided by the curb with frictional resistance. This flexibility in position may be particularly advantageous when the restraining device 110 is used without an armor plate 146 and encounters a wearer's back, which may have less defined edges for gripping than an armor plate 146.

Referring still to FIG. 3A, the medial surface 145 of the device 110 may have a contoured shape or may be specifically constructed to nest along side the surface over which it is worn. As can be appreciated, this contour may vary depending on the contour of the attire over which it is worn and may include a series of undulations so as to maintain continuous contact with the surface of the attire. In this contoured condition, the medial surface 145 may remain inset a recess dimension 141 from the vertically extending curbs 140 to maintain the lateral bracing effect of these curbs 140 and further allow the device 110 to nestle around the wearer or the wearer's attire. FIGS. 3B and 3C show at least two examples of a contoured medial surface 145. The medial surface 145 may be formed from a rigid material or a padded material to achieve the contoured shape.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an anterior surface 102 of a backpack 100 depicting the attachment of a lateral restraining device 110 according to certain embodiments. As shown in FIG. 4, the lateral restraining device 110 may be attached to the anterior surface 102 of the backpack bag 101. In this embodiment, the curbs 140 and the medial surface 145 of the device 110 may be sewn to the backpack bag 101 or otherwise adhered to the backpack bag 101 via a hook and loop attachment or other known attachments mechanisms. In an alternative embodiment, the curbs 140 may be coupled to vertically extending frame members and the medial surface 145 may be attached to the bag 101. In yet another alternative, the curbs 140 may be coupled to vertically extending frame members and the medial surface 145 may also be coupled at each side to frame members and stretched there between so as to be offset from the bag 101. Other methods for sewing and adhering the device are available and within the scope of the invention.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a posterior face of a backpack 100 equipped with a lateral restraining device 110 positioned on a wearer 150 according to certain embodiments. As can be seen from the figure, the device 110 described in the previous figures is situated in the torso region of the wearer 150 and extends in a substantially vertical fashion along the edge of the vest 148 of a wearer 150. The vest 148 may be equipped with an armor plate 146 (not shown) with an edge along which the curb 140 of the device 110 is positioned. The shoulder straps 164 and lap belt 162 may be tightened so as to pull the lateral restraining device 110 against the back left and right side of the body near the curvature of the ribs, engaging the device, and resisting lateral movement of the backpack 100.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an anterior surface 302 of a backpack frame 304 equipped with a lateral restraining device 110 according to certain embodiments. In this embodiment, a multipurpose backpack frame 304 is shown, which provides flexibility for the wearer in that various items may be attached to the frame 304. Varying sized bags or other items necessary to be carried may be strapped to the frame for support and transport by a wearer. As such, the frame may include straps 306 and loops 305 near its top, mid-height, and bottom, which may be used to secure a bag 301 (not shown) to the frame 304 to form a backpack.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a posterior face of a backpack frame 304 equipped with a lateral restraining device 110 positioned on a wearer 150 according to certain embodiments. In this figure, as with FIG. 5, the device 110 may be nestled around a wearer's back through tightening of the lap belt 162 and shoulder straps 164 thereby allowing the curbs 140 to engage the lateral sides of the wearer's back or attire and resist lateral motion of the backpack.

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a backpack frame 304 depicting the attachment of a lateral restraining device 110 according to certain embodiments. In contrast with at least one form of the attachment shown and described regarding FIG. 4, the lateral restraining device 110 in this embodiment may be attached to the surface of the backpack frame 304 rather than the backpack bag 301. The lateral restraining device 110 may be coupled through the use of adhesives, screws, rivots, hook and loop, or any other connection of fabric to rigid material known in the art.

FIGS. 9-25 depict another embodiment of a lateral restraining device in the form of a convertible lateral restraining device according to certain embodiments. FIG. 9 is a view of an anterior surface of a backpack 200 equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device 210. As with FIG. 1, the backpack 200 shown has a bag 201, a lumbar pad 260, a lap belt 262, and shoulder straps 264. As will become more apparent in discussion of the next figures, the convertible device 210 may be convertible between a torso pad condition and a restraining device condition. In the present figure, the convertible device 210 is shown in the torso pad condition.

FIG. 10 is a front view of an anterior surface 202 of a backpack 200 equipped with a convertible lateral restraining device 210 in a torso pad condition according to certain embodiments. The convertible device 210, as with the device shown in FIGS. 1-8, may correspond to the torso region of the wearer. As such, the convertible lateral restraining device 210 may be substantially the same in size and location as that shown in FIGS. 1-8. The convertible device may be approximately equal in width 218 to the backpack 200 and may have a height of up to 6 to 12 inches or more.

FIG. 11 is a detailed view of a convertible lateral restraining device 210 in a torso pad condition according to certain embodiments. The torso pad may include two flaps 214 with an overlapping seam 216 arranged between flaps 214. The flaps 214 may each have an exterior edge 220 and an interior edge 222 in relation to the anterior surface 202 of the backpack 200. The flaps 214 may be fixedly attached to the anterior surface 202 of the backpack 200 along their exterior edge 220. This attachment may occur in several ways including, but not limited to sewing, snaps, zippers, rivots, adhesives, and combinations and variations thereof. The flaps 214 of the torso pad 212 may be constructed from various materials including padded materials (e.g. closed cell foam and/or batting), air-filled materials, or liquid-filled materials (e.g. air bladders). In one embodiment, the torso pad 212 may be a material with an inherent cushioning property such as foam or neoprene. In other embodiments, the torso pad material may include two pieces of outer material or fabric secured together around the perimeter of the flap and filled with a cushioning material such as cotton, gel, or bean material. This outer material or fabric, as well as the other materials of the present invention may include leather, nylon, canvas, plastics, kevlar and the like. In one embodiment, this outer material may be Drilex or another porous sweat absorbing material. In yet another embodiment, the torso pad 212 may be made of gripping materials as described above or may have a gripping material applied to its torso pad surface.

As shown in more detail in FIG. 12, the flaps 214 of the torso pad 212 may be attached to the backpack 200 near their exterior edges 220, and may overlap at their interior edges 222. As shown by the hidden lines in FIG. 11 and the folded back portion of the flap in FIG. 12, the flaps 214 may include a hook and loop connection 224 for removably attaching the interior edges 222 of the flaps 214 to each other, and for removably attaching the interior edges 222 of the flaps 214 to the backpack 200. Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that the removable attachment may be snaps, zippers, or other attachments known in the art. Additionally, the flaps 214 may have varying levels of overlap and may not overlap at all. They may overlap as slightly as shown, or may overlap such that one flap 214 covers some or all of the other flap 214. Accordingly, the hook and loop connections 224 may be shifted to accommodate any size flap 214 and any amount of overlap.

The process of converting the torso pad 212 shown in FIGS. 9-12 to a lateral restraining device 210 is depicted in FIGS. 13-15. As shown in FIG. 13, the hook and loop connection 224 at the interior edge 222 of the flap 214 may be opened allowing the interior edge 222 to be rolled inside the flap 214 toward the exterior edge 220 of the flap 214. Straps 226 may be initially seen folded over and tucked under the torso pad flaps 214 in FIG. 13. In FIG. 14, the straps 226 are unfolded and shown poised to wrap around and secure the rolled flap 214 of the torso pad 212. FIG. 15 shows both flaps 214 of the torso pad 212 rolled toward the exterior edge of the backpack 200 and secured with the straps 226.

The straps 226 of the present embodiment may be attached to the anterior surface 202 of the backpack 200. In certain implementations, they are secured at or near the location at which the flaps 214 are secured. As discussed with respect to FIG. 14, the straps 226 may be folded over and tucked under the flaps 214 in the torso pad condition, and may be unfolded and wrapped around the rolled flap 214 in the restraining device condition. The straps 226 may have an inside face 228 and an outside face 230 relative to their rolled shape. The inside face 228 of the strap 226 may include a hook and loop surface for securing the straps 226 to the backpack 200 upon wrapping around the rolled flap 214. In the present embodiment, the restraining device 210 is shown to have four total straps 226, but may include from 2 to 8 straps, for example, or any number of straps.

As can be seen initially in FIG. 13 and continuing to FIG. 15, a strip of gripping material 232 may be sewn or otherwise attached to the underside of the torso pad flap 214. When the flap 214 is rolled into its restraining device position, it has an anterior surface 234 and an interior surface 236 and the gripping material 232 is positioned to be located on these surfaces so as to be exposed when the flap 214 is rolled. Additional gripping material 238 is shown in FIG. 15 attached to the surface of the straps 226. As with the gripping material 232 on the flaps 214, the gripping material 238 on the straps 226 is positioned to fall on the anterior surface 234 and the interior surface 236 of the straps 226 when in position to secure the rolled flaps 214. The regions of gripping material 232, 238 provide a substantially continuous surface of gripping material 232, 238 along the anterior 234 and interior 236 surfaces of the curb 240 created by the rolled flap 214. FIG. 15 also shows additional gripping material 242 on the medial surface 245 under the lay down area 244 of the torso pad flaps 214. Thus, when the restraining device 210 is deployed by rolling and securing the torso pad flaps 214, the gripping material 232, 238 on the rolled flaps and the straps together with the gripping material 242 on the medial surface 245 creates a gripping material lining within the nesting area, which further functions to laterally secure the backpack 200.

Additional discussion regarding the nature of the rolled curbs 240, the straps 226, and the attachment of the straps 226 is included below regarding FIGS. 18, 19A, and 19B. However, these Figs. depict a backpack frame similar to that shown and described in FIGS. 6-8. Thus, some discussion of a convertible restraining device in place on a multipurpose frame is warranted.

As with the lateral restraining device shown on a multipurpose frame in FIGS. 6-8, FIGS. 16 and 17 show another embodiment of the convertible lateral restraining device 210 connected to a multipurpose backpack frame 304. The frame 304 is shown to include straps 306 and loops 305 near its top, mid-height, and bottom, which may be used to secure a bag 301 (not shown) to the frame 304 to form a backpack 300. In this embodiment, a torso pad 212 (not shown), may be coupled directly to the frame 304 through the use of adhesives, screws, rivots, hook and loop, or any other connection of fabric to rigid material known in the art. As with previous embodiments depicted in FIGS. 9-15, the flaps 214 may be rolled to form a lateral restraining device 210. As can be seen in the figure, straps 226 are shown to secure the rolled flaps 214 to form a curb 240 on each side of the restraining device 210. As before, the straps 226 may be secured to hook and loop regions on the posterior side of the frame 304. Gripping material 232, 238 may also be included on the surface of the flaps 214 and the surface of the straps 226 as discussed above and shown here in FIGS. 16 and 17.

FIGS. 18, 19A, and 19B further show the rolling of the torso pad flaps 214 and allow for a more detailed discussion of the flaps 214 of material and associated straps 226. FIG. 18 is a top view of a convertible lateral restraining device 210 in relation to the armor plate 246 in a vest 248 of a wearer 250. For purposes of explanation, the armor plate 246 in the figures is shown to create an exaggerated raised area in the vest 248 of the wearer 250. The rolled flaps 214 are shown with the interior edge 222 of the flap 214 rolled within the periphery of the roll and the exterior edge 220 remaining on the outer periphery of the roll. Additionally, the rolls are shown to form a curb 240 with an anterior surface 234 and an interior surface 236. As can be seen, the curbs 240 created by the rolled torso pad flaps 214 may be situated to nestle along side the vertical sides of the armor plate 246. Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that as the flaps 214 are rolled tighter or looser, they can be adjusted to accommodate slightly varying sized armor plates 246 and wearers 250.

As most clearly seen in FIGS. 19A and 19B, the straps 226 may be attached to the backpack 200 at or near the location of the attachment point of the flaps 214, extend around the rolled flaps 214, and be secured to a hook and loop surface provided on the back side of the frame 252 of the backpack 200. This allows the straps 226 to secure the rolled flaps 214 in their curb like position. As with the other hook and loop connections, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that this connection may be made with snaps, zippers, straps, clasps, etc. Also shown, is one embodiment of the gripping material 238 where it extends from the point at which the strap 226 attaches to the backpack 200 to a point substantially ¾ of the way around the rolled pad 214. In addition to the gripping material 238 on the strap 226, FIGS. 19A and 19B also show the gripping material 242 affixed to the medial surface 245 under the lay down area 244 of the torso pad flaps 214 further adding to the resistance to lateral movement.

As with the device discussed in FIG. 3, the cylindrical shape of the curbs 240, formed by rolling the torso pads 214, together with the gripping material 232, 238 on the surface of the curb 240, may create a lateral restraining device 210 that is effective to arrest lateral movement of the backpack 200 in several positions relative to the wearer 250 or an armor plate 246 of the wearer.

An alternative embodiment to the rolled pads may include an accordion type configuration of the torso pad where the flap gathers toward the exterior edge in a repeatedly folded pattern. Additionally, a more rigid flap that is folded out of plane of the torso pad to abut the sides of a wearer or an armor plate worn by a wearer may be used.

In another alternative embodiment, the straps 226 may be omitted. In this embodiment, the flaps 214 may be outfitted with a vertically extending strip or strips of a removable attachment element (e.g., hook and loop, snaps, zippers, etc.). The vertically extending strip or strips may be positioned on an underside of the flaps 214 such that when the flaps 214 are rolled toward the exterior edge 220, the strip or strips is exposed and arranged to contact a corresponding removable attachment strip positioned along the exterior edge 220 of the flap 214 allowing the flap 214 to be secured in the form of a curb 240.

Similarly, in still another alternative embodiment, the gripping material may be used to secure the flap 214 in the form of a curb 240 and, again, the straps 226 may be omitted. In this embodiment, the surface of the flap 214 may be treated with gripping material to impart tackiness so that the flap 214 sticks to itself and/or sticks to another non-flap surface. Surface treatments may be provided to all or a portion of the flap surface. Particular arrangements of surface treatments may be provided so that as a user aligns the surface treatment with, for example, another surface treated area, the flap 214 is arranged and secured as a curb 240. For example, proper alignment of the surface treated area with one or more corresponding areas of the flap, or adjacent portion of the backpack or frame, may be required in order for the curb 240 to be formed.

FIG. 20 shows an exploded side view of a backpack with a convertible restraining device 210 in its non-deployed position. In this embodiment, the device functions as a torso pad 212 providing spacing between the backpack 200 and the back of the wearer 250.

FIGS. 21 and 22 show a side view and an exploded isometric view, respectively, of a backpack 200 with a convertible restraining device 210 in its deployed position. Also shown is a wearer 250 outfitted with a vest 248 including an armor plate 246 shown by the hidden line. As best shown by the dashed projection lines in FIG. 22, the curbs 240 on the backpack 200 may be positioned to hug the sides of the armor plate 246. In the absence of an armor plate 246, the curbs 240 may be adapted to hug the back of a wearer 250 by nestling around the lateral sides of a wearer's back.

FIGS. 23 and 24 are an isometric view and a front transparent view, respectively, of a lateral restraining device 210 adjacent the back side of a vest 248 equipped with an armor plate 246. FIG. 25 is a front transparent view, similar to FIG. 24, but also showing the outline of a backpack 200 with a lap belt 262. In each of these figures, the lateral restraining device 210 is shown nestled around the armor plate 246 in the vest 248 to prevent lateral movement of the backpack 200.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart of a method 2600 for forming a lateral restraining device for a backpack with a convertible torso pad. In view of the discussion of the convertible lateral restraining device above, in use, the lateral restraining device having at least two flaps removably connected at respective inside edges are disconnected (2610) from each other and from the backpack. The flaps are rolled (2620) in opposite directions toward the outside edges of the backpack, and each of the rolled flaps are secured (2630) in their rolled position using at least one strap or other securing means. According to further implementations, the rolled flaps may be adjusted to a tightness to accommodate an armor plate of a wearer. Alternatively, the rolled flaps may be adjusted to accommodate a back of a wearer.

The embodiments of the present invention are advantageous for their ability to restrain a backpack against lateral movement. Restraining the backpack allows a wearer to avoid continually adjusting the backpack into position. Moreover, the wearer may not have to compensate for the shifting backpack to maintain his or her balance, may avoid the discomfort of carrying an off-balance backpack, and is less likely to become injured through a fall or back injury.

In comparison to other contemplated restraints, the device provided according to certain embodiments may be effective without additional straps secured to the wearer where additional drag forces would be applied to the wearer's body that may be uncomfortable. Moreover, these types of straps may have a tendency to begin to resist load as the backpack adjusts during use and change the load carrying design of the backpack. The restraining device of the present invention may allow the weight of the backpack to be supported by the hip region of the wearer via the lumbar pad and the lap belt and may avoid changing the vertical load bearing design of the backpack.

Advantages related to the convertible embodiment involve the ability of the restraining device 210 to be deployed or used as a torso pad 212. Thus, in instances where lateral restraint may not be required, a torso pad 212 may be provided. Moreover, when lateral restraint is required, the convertible embodiment is advantageous due to the simplicity involved in rolling the flaps 214 of the torso pad 212 toward the outside edges of the backpack 200 and securing them with straps 226. The rolled pads 214 may be lightweight and their incorporation into the torso pad 212 prevents the need for storing an additional accessory when it is not in use. The avoidance of carrying or storing accessories is particularly advantageous when backpacking since all of these items need to be carried on foot and keeping the wearer's hands free is at least one underlying purpose of a backpack.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, persons skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A lateral restraining device for preventing lateral movement of a backpack on a wearer, comprising at least two vertically extending curbs situated on an anterior surface of the backpack each corresponding to a respective lateral side of the wearer, the curbs configured to grip the wearer.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising gripping material on anterior and interior surfaces of the at least two curbs.

3. The device of claim 2, further comprising gripping material arranged on an anterior surface of the backpack between the at least two vertically extending curbs.

4. The device of claim 3, further adapted to grip an armor plate inside a vest worn by the wearer, the armor plate having a width, wherein the at least two curbs are separated by a distance substantially equal to the width of the armor plate.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the at least two vertically extending curbs each comprise a rolled flap of material.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the rolled flap of a material has an exterior edge and interior edge, wherein the exterior edge is fixedly attached to the backpack and the interior edge is removably attachable to the backpack.

7. The device of claim 6, further comprising at least two straps with a first end and a second end, the first end fixedly attached to the backpack and the second end removably attachable to the backpack.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein at least one of the at least two straps is positioned around each of the rolled flaps of material and the first end is removably attached to the backpack.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the at least two straps each have gripping material on their anterior and interior surfaces in their secured position.

10. A convertible torso pad and lateral restraining device for preventing movement of a backpack on a wearer, comprising:

at least two flaps of material with an interior edge and an exterior edge wherein the flap is fixedly attached along its exterior edge to a surface of the backpack and the flap is removably attachable along its interior edge to the surface of the backpack and to the other respective flap of material;

at least two straps with a first end and a second end, the first end being fixedly attached to the surface of the backpack and a second end removably attachable to the backpack,

wherein, the at least two flaps may be positioned in a flat position to act as a torso pad or in a rolled position, secured by the at least two straps, to act as a lateral restraining device.

11. The convertible device of claim 10, wherein the at least two flaps of material are in a rolled position creating at least two rolled flaps of material and the at least two straps of material are positioned around each of the rolled flaps of material and the first end is removably attached to the backpack.

12. The convertible device of claim 11, wherein the at least two rolled flaps of material further comprise an anterior surface and an interior surface, wherein gripping material is located on the anterior and interior surfaces.

13. The convertible device of claim 12, where the at least two straps further comprise an anterior surface and an interior surface, wherein gripping material is located on the anterior surface and interior surfaces.

14. The convertible device of claim 13, further comprising gripping material secured to the anterior surface of the backpack and located between the exterior edges of the at least two flaps.

15. The convertible device of claim 10, wherein the at least two flaps of material are in a flat position and are removably connected at their interior edges.

16. The convertible device of claim 15, wherein the at least two straps of material are in a folded stored position underlying the at least two flaps of material.

17. The convertible device of claim 10, wherein the backpack comprises a frame with straps for attachment of a bag, and the convertible device is secured to the frame.

18. A method of forming a lateral restraining device for a backpack with a convertible torso pad with at least two flaps removably connected at respective inside edges, the inside edges being further removably connected to the backpack, comprising:

disconnecting the inside edges of the at least two flaps from each other and from the backpack;

rolling each of the at least two flaps in opposite directions toward the outside edges of the backpack; and

securing each of the at least two flaps with at least one strap.

19. The method of claim 18 further comprising, adjusting the at least two rolled flaps to a tightness to accommodate an armor plate of a wearer.

20. The method of claim 18 further comprising, adjusting the at least two rolled flaps to a tightness to accommodate a back of a wearer.