ADAPTABLE STORAGE DEVICE FOR RAIN ATTIRE

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an adaptable storage device for rain attire. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to an adaptable storage device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until needed. In one embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable storage device for rain attire comprises a substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing rain attire; a closure means for sealing the inner volume of the storage portion; and an attachment means for attaching the adaptable storage device to an apparatus.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/424,047, entitled “Adaptable Storage Device for Rain Attire,” filed Dec. 16, 2010, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an adaptable storage device for rain attire. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to an adaptable storage device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until needed.

2. Description of Related Art

People have been utilizing rain attire in inclement weather for years. Young children are taught at an early age to dress for the weather, which usually includes a raincoat, hat, umbrella and/or boots when leaving the house when it is raining outside. Even today's businessmen and women will carry an umbrella and wear an overcoat when there is precipitation outside. The basic principal of dressing for the weather is widely accepted as common sense.

However, this “common sense” to dress appropriately seems to get brushed aside when such individuals leave their homes in the morning without knowing, or without worrying, about a chance of bad weather later in the day. To venture out into the public wearing a rain coat when it is warm and sunny may be looked upon as strange, and certainly unfashionable. Even carrying a water-proof coat and umbrella, in hand or in a briefcase or backpack, may be heavy, and may displace other items that would normally be carried therein.

Accordingly, there is a need for an adaptable storage device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until needed.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an adaptable storage device for rain attire. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to an adaptable storage device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until needed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable storage device for rain attire comprises a substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing rain attire; a closure means for sealing the inner volume of the storage portion; and an attachment means for attaching the adaptable storage device to an apparatus.

In another embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable storage device for a golfer's rain attire comprises a substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing a golfer's rain attire, the storage portion having an inner surface with a drying cloth removably fixed thereon via at least one cloth attachment, and one or more storage compartments therein; a substantially water-proof zipper for sealing the inner volume of the storage portion; and an attachment means for attaching the adaptable storage device to a golf bag; wherein the storage portion comprises one of a substantially round, oval or circular cross-section, and has a length to diameter ratio of between about 3:1 to about 8:1.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a golfer's kit to store rain attire comprises: an adaptable storage device for a golfer's rain attire comprising a substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing a golfer's rain attire, the storage portion having an inner surface with a drying cloth removably fixed thereon via at least one cloth attachment, and one or more storage compartments therein; a substantially water-proof zipper for sealing the inner volume of the storage portion; and an attachment means for attaching the adaptable storage device to a golf bag, the attachment means having a strap affixed to the outer surface of the storage portion, with at least one of a release buckle, or one or more length adjustment elements thereon to provide a means to release and/or adjust the length of the strap; wherein the storage portion comprises one of a substantially round, oval or circular cross-section, and has a length to diameter ratio of between about 3:1 to about 8:1; and at least one article of rain attire, selected from the group consisting of: an umbrella, a rain jacket, gloves, mittens, and rain pants.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So the manner in which the above-recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more detailed description of embodiments of the present invention is described below with references to the Figures illustrated in the appended drawings. The Figures in the appended drawings, like the detailed description, illustrate only examples of embodiments. As such, the Figures and the detailed description are not to be considered limiting, and other equally effective examples are possible and likely, wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an adaptable storage device for rain attire in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 depicts a top view of an adaptable storage device for rain attire, in an open position, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 depicts a back view of an adaptable storage device having a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 depicts a plurality of alternative attachment locations for embodiments of the present invention; and

FIG. 5 depicts a kit utilizing an adaptable storage device and rain attire, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description. As used throughout this application, the word “may” is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include,” “including,” and “includes” mean “including but not limited to.” To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the Figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments or other examples described herein. However, it will be understood that these examples may be practiced without the specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail, so as to not obscure the following description. Further, the examples disclosed herein are for exemplary purposes only and other examples may be employed in lieu of, or in combination with, the examples disclosed. It should also be noted that the examples presented herein should not be construed as limiting of the scope of embodiments of the present invention, as other equally effective examples are possible and likely.

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an adaptable storage device for rain attire. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to an adaptable storage device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until needed.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an adaptable storage device for rain attire in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. An adaptable storage device 100 generally comprises a storage portion 110 having an inner volume for storing rain attire, a closure means 120, and an attachment means 130. The adaptable storage device 100 may be considered a bag or container of some form, having the features and functionality as disclosed herein.

The storage portion 110 is generally a volume defining portion of the adaptable storage device 100 and has an inner volume (not shown) for storing a variety of items of rain attire or accessories thereof. The storage portion 110 is generally flexible and bendable about an article (not shown) to which it may be attached.

The storage portion 110 may comprise any material suitable for embodiments of the invention, and often comprises a waterproof or water-resistant material. In one embodiment, the storage portion 110 comprises a common waterproof material such as vinyl, rubber, artificial fibers (e.g., Gore-Tex®, made by W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. of Newark, Del.), combinations thereof, or the like. In another embodiment, the storage portion 110 comprises a woven or non-woven fabric, having natural or artificial fibers, optionally coated in an oil or chemical to enhance waterproofing or water-resistive capabilities. In alternative embodiments, natural animal skins may be utilized as an outer layer of the storage portion 110, for both the natural water resistivity and fashion qualities. In one embodiment, the storage portion primarily comprises a denier polyester, for example, a 600 denier polyester, and optionally, combinations of other materials as well.

The storage portion 110 may generally be shaped in any configuration suitable for embodiments of the present invention, i.e., to store rain attire. In many embodiments, storage portion 110 may have a substantially round, oval or circular cross-section, although any cross-section shape may be suitable suitable. Such a cross section is determined when the storage portion is in a substantially relaxed state, with nominal external forces acting thereon. Similarly, the storage portion 110 may have a substantially longer length than its diameter or cross-sectional width (e.g., ranging from ratios of about 2:1 up to about 20:1, and in some embodiments from ratios of about 3:1 to about 8:1), such width being defined along the distance of the closure means about one end of the storage portion.

In some embodiments, such as the one shown, the storage portion 110 is designed as a substantially symmetrical article, capable of opening up on a top and two sides via a closure means 120. In many embodiments, the closure means 120 comprises a resealable mechanical fastener commonly found in apparel. For example, in one embodiment, the closure means 120 comprises one of a zipper, mechanical snaps, one or more straps, hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), removable adhesive, combinations thereof, or the like. As shown in the Figure, the closure means 120 may comprise a zipper having a plurality of teeth (shown in a closed position) and a slider 122.

In many embodiments, regardless of the type of closure means 120, such closure means 120 may generally create a waterproof or substantially water-resistant seal to the inside volume of the storage portion 110. Various types of waterproof or water-resistant closure mechanisms are known in the industry and should be considered suitable for embodiments of the present invention. In certain embodiments, however, other water-resistant means are utilized with the device 100, and the water-resistibility of the closure means is substantially irrelevant.

The attachment means 130 may comprise any means suitable to attach the adaptable storage device 100 to another article, apparatus or individual, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, as described herein. In one embodiment, the attachment means 130 comprises a strap affixed to the outer surface of the storage portion 110, via one or more D-ring assemblies affixed to an exterior of the storage portion 110. Optionally, the strap may comprise a release buckle 132, as well as length adjustment elements to provide for an easy way to release and/ or adjust the length of the strap. Additional embodiments of the attachment means 130 are described herein with respect to FIG. 3.

In an alternative embodiment, the adaptable storage device 100 may further comprise a pocket, loop or strap 140 on an outer surface of the storage portion 110. Such type of outer pocket, loop or strap may be designed to hold specific articles, such as an umbrella, which may not need to be shielded from precipitation at all times. In many embodiments, the strap 140 may be openable, via two mating hook and loop portions, or otherwise, to allow ease of access to an article being held thereby.

FIG. 2 depicts a top view of an adaptable storage device for rain attire, in an open position, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The adaptable storage device 200 comprises a storage portion 210 having an inner volume defined by an inner surface 212, as well as a closure means 220. As shown in the Figure, the closure means 220 is provided in the form of a zipper having a plurality of teeth and slider 222.

In many embodiments, the storage portion 210 comprises a drying cloth 240 removably fixed within the inner surface 212 via at least one cloth attachment 242. The drying cloth 240 generally comprises a sheet of material capable of absorbing liquid (e.g., water). In one embodiment, the material comprises a blend of rayon and polypropylene fibers, or the like, similar to many commercially sold non-leather chamois cloths. Alternatively, the drying cloth 240 may comprise any material having inherent absorbent properties, reasonably suitable for embodiments of the present invention.

The at least one cloth attachment 242 may generally comprise any means for keeping the drying cloth 240 within the storage portion. In one embodiment, as shown, the cloth attachment 242 comprises a pocket. Generally, such pocket may comprise a waterproof or substantially water-resistant pocket, capable of keeping the drying cloth 240 dry in the event moisture or water enter the interior of the storage portion. In alternative embodiments, the cloth attachment 242 may comprise any type of removable fastener suitable for embodiments of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, the cloth attachment 242 comprises a hook-and-loop fastener assembly. Alternatively, non-abrasive removable adhesives or mechanical fasteners (e.g., snaps, zippers, etc.) may be utilized as the cloth attachment 242.

Optionally, there may be one or more storage compartments 250 provided in of the storage portion 210. Such storage compartments 250 may be optionally provided to assist in the storage of rain attire (not shown) when the adaptable storage device 200 is in use. The storage compartments 250 may comprise any known type of storage, such as a tie-down strap having a release buckle and/or hook and loop fasteners, a pocket, or the like.

FIG. 3 depicts a back view of an adaptable storage device having a plurality of attachment means, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the Figure, the adaptable storage device 300 may be provided with a variety of different attachment means 330a-d, which may either be interchangeable or assembled for different end users. Where interchangeable attachment means 330a-d are provided, the adaptable storage device 300 may be provided with one or more attachment means connectors 315 which generally comprise only one of a male or female end of a connector for receiving and connecting with opposing structure 315′ on each of the attachment means 330a-e.

The attachment means connectors 315 and 315′ generally comprise any type of mechanical fastener suitable for embodiments of the present invention. Similar to the cloth attachment 242 discussed above, the attachment means connectors 315 and 315′ may comprise a hook-and-loop fastener assembly, non-abrasive removable adhesives or mechanical fasteners (e.g., snaps, zippers, etc.). In addition, for non-interchangeable embodiments, the attachment means connectors may comprise more permanent mechanical fasteners (e.g., bolts), stitching, a permanent adhesive, combinations thereof, or the like.

The first attachment means 330a comprises a strap having a side-release buckle for easy release, and optionally comprises one or more length adjustments to provide a more secure fit about a variety of articles, apparatuses or individuals. In another embodiment, the attachment means 330b comprises a clip-type device, such as a climbing clip, for affixing to an article (not shown) having a eye-loop or ring for receiving such types of clips.

In yet another embodiment, the attachment means 330c comprises an open tie strap or string. In such embodiment, the attachment means 330c may be utilized to affix the adaptable storage device 300 to nearly any surface or device. In a further embodiment, the attachment means 330d comprises a belt clip-type connector for affixing about a belt of an individual (not shown) to that the adaptable storage device 300 may be worn. In an additional embodiment, the attachment means 330e, which is also shown in FIG. 1, may comprise a D-ring assembly for receiving another article, such as a strap having clips thereon for mating with the D-ring assembly. In optional embodiments, any other type of attachment means capable of providing the same or similar functionality as those described herein may be utilized in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a plurality of alternative attachment locations for embodiments of the present invention. As shown in the Figure, embodiments of the present invention may be placed or affixed nearly anywhere. In one embodiment, an adaptable storage device 400a may be affixed about the top of a golf bag, allowing a golfer to always have rain attire handy, nearby and conveniently accessible, without fear that it would get dirty from being in a pocket of the golf bag. However, in certain instances, the entire adaptable storage device may be configured to fit within the pocket of a golf bag, still keeping the rain attire free from touching the inside of the pocket directly.

In another embodiment, an adaptable storage device 400b may be affixed to the straps of a purse, bag, or briefcase. In such an embodiment, the individual may have an easy way to transport rain attire without having to hold it or to displace other items in the bag to make room for the rain attire. In yet another embodiment, an adaptable storage device 400c may be worn around an individual's waist, either on a belt or connected via a strap (i.e., similar to a fanny-pack). As such, when a user is attending a ball game or going for a walk, the user has a convenient way to transport rain attire without holding it. Alternatively, the adaptable storage device 400c may be attached to a user via a shoulder strap (e.g., similar to a purse or computer bag), to be worn in any capacity by the user (e.g., on the shoulder, across the chest, etc.)

In addition to the embodiments shown and described herein, embodiments of the adaptable storage device can be customized for nearly any circumstance whereby an individual or group of individuals may wish to have a convenient way to transport rain attire. As such, embodiments of the present invention should not be deemed limited by the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 depicts a kit utilizing an adaptable storage device and rain attire, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the Figure, the kit 500 may comprise an adaptable storage device 510, and a number of articles of rain attire. As shown in the Figure, such exemplary articles may include an umbrella 562, a rain jacket 564, gloves/mittens 566, and rain pants 568. Generally, when provided as a kit 500, such articles would be folded and stored within the adaptable storage device 510.

In many embodiments, when providing a kit 500, each of the articles as well as the adaptable storage device 510 may be provided with a brand, insignia, pattern, design or visual source-identification (collectively called “logo” 570). By providing a logo on each of the articles, such kits 500 may be commercially manufactured for businesses, sports teams, or locations having a significant number of followers. For example, as shown in the Figure, by designating each of the articles and the adaptable storage device 510 with the letter R (which would likely be done in the color red), kits 500 may be readily made for Rutgers University in New Jersey, and may be sold before or during football games to students and alumni in the event there is a chance of rain during a game.

While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. Furthermore, whereas the multitude of embodiments disclosed herein each provides a variety of elements within each embodiment, it should be appreciated any combination of elements from any combination of embodiments is well within the scope of further embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An adaptable storage device for rain attire comprising:

a substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing rain attire;

a closure means for sealing the inner volume of the storage portion; and

an attachment means for attaching the adaptable storage device to an apparatus.

2. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the storage portion comprises 600 denier polyester.

3. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the storage portion comprises a woven or non-woven fabric, having natural or artificial fibers.

4. The adaptable storage device of claim 3, wherein the natural or artificial fibers are coated in an oil or chemical to enhance waterproofing or water-resistive capabilities.

5. The adaptable storage device of claim 5, wherein the storage portion comprises a length to width ratio of between about 2:1 to about 20:1.

6. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the closure means comprises one of a zipper, mechanical snaps, one or more straps, hook-and-loop fasteners, removable adhesive, or combinations thereof.

7. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the attachment means comprises a strap affixed to the outer surface of the storage portion.

8. The adaptable storage device of claim 7, wherein the strap is affixed to the outer surface of the storage portion via a D-ring assembly and clip.

9. The adaptable storage device of claim 7, wherein the strap comprise at least one of a release buckle, or one or more length adjustment elements to provide a means to release and/or adjust the length of the strap.

10. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, further comprising a strap on an outer surface of the storage portion for holding separable articles.

11. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, further comprising a drying cloth removably fixed to an inner surface of the storage portion via at least one cloth attachment.

12. The adaptable storage device of claim 11, wherein the drying cloth comprises a blend of rayon and polypropylene fibers.

13. The adaptable storage device of claim 11, wherein the at least one cloth attachment comprises a substantially waterproof or water-resistant pocket.

14. The adaptable storage device of claim 11, wherein the at least one cloth attachment comprises at least one of a hook-and-loop fastener assembly, non-abrasive removable adhesives, mechanical fasteners or combinations thereof.

15. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, further comprising one or more storage compartments on an inner surface of the storage portion.

16. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises one of a golf bag, a purse, a briefcase a belt, or a shoulder strap of a bag.

17. An adaptable storage device for a golfer's rain attire comprising:

a substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing a golfer's rain attire, the storage portion having an inner surface with a drying cloth removably stored via at least one cloth attachment, and one or more storage compartments therein;

a substantially water-proof zipper for sealing the inner volume of the storage portion; and

an attachment means for attaching the adaptable storage device to a golf bag;

wherein the storage portion comprises one of a substantially round, oval or circular cross-section, and has a length to width ratio of between about 3:1 to about 8:1.

18. The adaptable storage device of claim 17, wherein the attachment means comprises a strap affixed to the outer surface of the storage portion, the strap having at least one of a release buckle, or one or more length adjustment elements to provide a means to release and/or adjust the length of the strap.

19. A golfer's kit to store rain attire, the kit comprising:

an adaptable storage device for a golfer's rain attire comprising: a substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing a golfer's rain attire, the storage portion having an inner surface with a drying cloth removably fixed thereon via at least one cloth attachment, and one or more storage compartments therein; a substantially water-proof zipper for sealing the inner volume of the storage portion; and an attachment means for attaching the adaptable storage device to a golf bag, the attachment means having a strap affixed to the outer surface of the storage portion, with at least one of a release buckle, or one or more length adjustment elements thereon to provide a means to release and/or adjust the length of the strap; wherein the storage portion comprises one of a substantially round, oval or circular cross-section, and has a length to diameter ratio of between about 3:1 to about 8:1; and

at least one article of rain attire, selected from the group consisting of: an umbrella, a rain jacket, gloves, mittens, and rain pants.

20. The kit of claim 19, wherein each of the adaptable storage device and the at least one article of rain attire comprise a logo thereon.