EQUIPMENT-STORAGE/CARRYING APPARATUS
An apparatus implemented as an integrated storage and transport system is described. The apparatus can be made of a high tensile strength material that is resistant to tearing and to inclement weather. Incorporated into the apparatus is a plurality of reinforced straps where each strap contains a core of multiple strand high tensile cord. The number of reinforced straps is generally based on a square foot size of the apparatus. Also combined, in some variations, is the strategic placement of box stitching and vertical straps for extra support.
The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/591,366, filed 27 Jan. 2012.
BACKGROUNDMilitary and law enforcement agencies currently use a personal gear attachment system referred to as Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE). The system typically utilizes sewn webbing, in a matrix formation, referred to as Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS). Using the MOLLE system, gear (e.g., a modular pouch) with straps on the back can be attached to a webbing panel configured in the PALS format. In order to attach gear to the PALS panel, straps of the gear can be weaved into the PALS panel. The PALS format is an effective means of securely fastening many types of gear, such as ammunition pouches, ordinance pouches, first aid kits, pouches for miscellaneous items (e.g. flashlights, knives, compasses, and GPS units), identification holders, canteens, liquid bladders, and other types of load-bearing equipment, to a person.
The modular nature of the MOLLE and PALS systems affords a user the ability to customize placement of gear based on various factors including the type of gear being attached. Currently, the MOLLE and PALS system is limited to being implemented on backpacks, vests, and other personal articles of clothing and storage. As such, gear that is small and relatively light can be used with the MOLLE and PALS system. However, a user can run into problems where there is too much gear to personally carry or the size of the gear makes it impractical to carry. Furthermore, a user may wish to store the gear in a readily available location without having it on their person.
In cases of civilian activities, it may be impractical to carry such gear around personally. A user may wish to have the gear available to him, but not have to personally carry the gear everywhere he goes. When going on a camping or hunting trip, this type of gear would generally be stored in some sort of container when transported. However, using a container limits the availability of gear readily obtainable by a user. The user would then have to transfer to the gear from the container to a personal carrier having the MOLLE and PALS systems.
Therefore, there is a need for a system that addresses the limitations of the MOLLE and PALS systems. A system adapted for use in various civilian transportation vehicles and storage applications where a user would not have to personally carry gear is needed.
Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to an apparatus that builds upon the ideas behind the military's Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system, which uses the Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS). For convenience of reference, the overall system is henceforth referred to as the apparatus. Generally speaking, the apparatus can facilitate transport and storage of a wide variety of equipment and pouches, including those already used with the existing MOLLE and PALS systems. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a more-robust “ladder” system that takes the place of one-inch webbing in a typical PALS application. For example, in one variation, the apparatus includes webbing straps each having a 550 paracord core. It is to be appreciated that other suitable cord cores can be implemented depending on an application and anticipated load. In another variation, the apparatus' “ladder” system includes vertical webbing straps placed in the apparatus for reinforcement in heavier load applications.
In an embodiment, the apparatus includes an integrated storage and transport system comprising a high tensile strength base and a plurality of straps with cord cores. The core includes multiple strand high tensile cord. The plurality of straps are generally in parallel and can be spaced at various widths according to the square foot size of the apparatus. Also combined, in some variations, is the strategic placement of box stitching throughout the surface of the base. In one variation, the apparatus includes hook-and-loop patches and/or snap fasteners for attachment of various types of gear to the apparatus.
In general, the apparatus is designed to allow the modular MOLLE pouches currently on the market to work with the apparatus. The base together with the integrated weight-bearing straps gives a user the ability to easily change the placement of weight bearing modular pouches to meet the needs of their ever-changing storage and transport requirements. The apparatus can be adaptable for various uses and weight requirements. For instance, modular pouches can be attached to the invention by using various attachment systems available on the market. Existing attachment systems will work with the apparatus including, but not limited to, speed strips, hook-and-loop attachments, and 1-inch snap strap.
In many other applications, it is anticipated that the apparatus can be adapted for use in various consumer transportation and storage markets. One such application involves a version of the apparatus equipped with strapping to allow it to be mounted on an automobile's passenger seat back, wherein attached pouches and equipment are available to the user in the next seat. In another application, the apparatus is adapted to be removably installed as an equipment-mounting system in the bed of a pick-up truck or the cargo bay of an SUV. Variations in fabric, measurements, and layout depend on the specific consumer-product application and are further based on anticipated weight bearing load, strength, placement, location, and so on.
TerminologyThe terms and phrases as indicated in quotes (“ ”) in this section are intended to have the meaning ascribed to them in this Terminology section applied to them throughout this document, including the claims, unless clearly indicated otherwise in context. Further, as applicable, the stated definitions are to apply, regardless of the word or phrase's case, to the singular and plural variations of the defined word or phrase.
The term “or”, as used in this specification and the appended claims, is not meant to be exclusive; rather, the term is inclusive, meaning either or both.
References in the specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “a preferred embodiment”, “an alternative embodiment”, “a variation”, “one variation”, and similar phrases mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least an embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” and/or “in one variation” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all meant to refer to the same embodiment.
The term “couple” or “coupled”, as used in this specification and the appended claims, refers to either an indirect or a direct connection between the identified elements, components, or objects. Often the manner of the coupling will be related specifically to the manner in which the two coupled elements interact.
The term “removable”, “removably coupled”, “readily removable”, “readily detachable”, and similar terms, as used in this patent application specification (including the claims and drawings), refer to structures that can be uncoupled from an adjoining structure with relative ease (i.e., non-destructively and without a complicated or time-consuming process) and that can also be readily reattached or coupled to the previously adjoining structure.
Directional and/or relational terms such as, but not limited to, left, right, nadir, apex, top, bottom, vertical, horizontal, back, front, and lateral are relative to each other, are dependent on the specific orientation of an applicable element or article, are used accordingly to aid in the description of the various embodiments, and are not necessarily intended to be construed as limiting.
As applicable, the terms “about” or “generally”, as used herein unless otherwise indicated, means a margin of +−20%. Also, as applicable, the term “substantially” as used herein unless otherwise indicated means a margin of +−10%. It is to be appreciated that not all uses of the above terms are quantifiable such that the referenced ranges can be applied.
The term “attachment means” or “attachment structure,” as used in the specification and appended claims, refers to buckles, buttons, snap fasteners, d-ring fasteners, quick-detach straps, clasps, hook and loop fasteners, elastic straps, and equivalent structures used to couple one object to another.
The term “paracord” or “550 cord,” as used in this specification and the appended claims, refers to a lightweight nylon kernmantle rope with a minimum breaking strength of 550 pounds.
A First Embodiment of a Storage ApparatusReferring to
In an embodiment, the apparatus 102 comprises a base 104, a plurality of straps 106, and an attachment structure or means 108.
Generally, the base 104 includes a fabric panel having a definite size and shape. For example, the base 104 can be a two foot by two foot piece of nylon. In another example, the base 104 can comprise a four foot by two foot piece of Kevlar. It is to be appreciated that the base 104 can be made into a variety of shapes and sizes depending on an application.
Since the apparatus 102 can be used for a variety of applications, the base 104 can be comprised of any suitable material that is resistant to tearing and is highly durable. For instance, in applications involving the outdoors, the base 104 can be comprised of a material that is resistant to the elements such as high density polyethylene (HDPE). In one example, the base 104 is waterproof. In an embodiment, the base 104 can be comprised of a high tensile strength material that is weather resistant. For example, the base 104 can be a heavy duty nylon canvas. In an embodiment, the base 104 can be made from multiple materials. For example, the base 104 can include a piece of nylon canvas with a Kevlar exterior layer. It is to be appreciated that the base 104 can be made from a variety of materials including, but not limited to, woven materials, nonwoven materials, synthetic materials, and non-synthetic materials. Some examples of such materials include Kevlar, felt, carbon fiber, HDPE, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, and other polymers.
Generally, the attachment structure 108 can be used to attach the apparatus 102 or base 104 to an object. For instance, the attachment structure 108 can be configured to attach the base 104 to the back of a car seat. In one example, the attachment structure 108 can implement straps with buckles to secure the base 104 to a car seat. In another instance, the attachment structure 108 can be configured to attach the base 104 to a truck bed. For example, the attachments means 108 can use straps with hooks to secure the base 104 to slots in the truck bed. In yet another instance, the attachment structure 108 can be configured to attach the base 104 to a briefcase. For example, the attachment structure 108 can use elastic straps to secure the base 104 to the briefcase. It is to be appreciated that the apparatus 102 can be attached to a variety of objects including, but not limited to, a truck bed, a car seat, an all-terrain vehicle, a briefcase, and a horse saddle. It is to be appreciated that the scope of the present description does not encompass backpacks and other objects carried on the body.
As shown in
Generally, the straps 106 are comprised of a material similar to the material used to make the base 104. A material that is resistant to tearing and is highly durable can be implemented to make the straps 106. For example, the straps 106 can be comprised of a nylon webbing. In another example, the straps 106 can be comprised of a polyurethane webbing. In yet another example, one or more of the straps 106 can be comprised of a nylon webbing and one or more of the straps 106 can be comprised of a polyurethane webbing. It is to be appreciated that a variety of materials can be implemented to make the straps 106.
As previously mentioned, the number of straps 106 can be altered based on an application and/or an area of the base 104. The width of the plurality of straps 106 can also be altered based on an application and/or area of the base 104. In one instance, the plurality of straps 106 can be one and a half inch wide. In another instance, the plurality of straps 106 can be two inches wide. It is to be appreciated that a variety of widths can be implemented.
To secure the straps 106 to the base 104, one or more types of stitching can be implemented. In an embodiment, a box stitching 114 can be included to attach the straps 106 to the base 104. Generally, ends 112 of the straps 106 are attached to the base 104 by box stitching. Box stitches can provide support for areas subject to a stress. Depending on an application, the straps 106 can be attached to the base 104 by different stitches along a length of the strap. For instance, each of the straps 106 can be attached at different points along a length of each strap to the base 104. For example, a strap can be attached to the base 104 every six inches by double stitches along a length of the strap. For purposes of this description, an attachment point 116 can be a location where a strap is coupled or attached to the base 104. In one example, the ends 112 of the straps 106 can be attached by box stitching and double stitches can be implemented to secure the straps 106 to the base 104 at various attachment points 116. It is to be appreciated that a variety of means of attaching the straps 106 to the base 104 can be implemented.
Referring to
Referring to
The apparatus 202 generally comprises a base 204, a plurality of first or horizontal straps 206, one or more second or vertical straps 208, and an attachment structure 210 for attaching the base 204 to an object or support structure.
Similar to the base 104 of the first embodiment, the base 204 generally comprises a panel of fabric or material having a definite size and shape. For instance, the base 204 can comprise a four foot by four foot piece of nylon canvas. It is to be appreciated that the base 204 can comprise a variety of materials of varying sizes. The size of the base 204 can be determined based on an intended application or use of the apparatus 202. For example, the base 204 can be sized relatively large when implemented in a truck bed, but relatively small when implemented with a briefcase. In one instance, the length and number of the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 can be determined based on a size of the base 204.
In a general construction, the horizontal straps 206 can be attached or coupled to the base 204 in a horizontal orientation and the vertical straps 208 can be attached or coupled to the base 204 in a generally vertical orientation. Alternatively, the second straps 208 can be in a perpendicular orientation to the first straps 206 when attached to the base 204.
As shown in
Similar to the straps 106 of the first embodiment 100, the horizontal straps 206 can be implemented with a cord core. In an embodiment, the horizontal straps 206 are longitudinally folded around a cord core. Generally, a strap can be wrapped around the cord and then be attached to the base 204. In an embodiment, the cord can be fully enclosed in the strap. For example, the strap can be of sufficient width to completely encase the cord and be stitched closed with the cord encased. The strap can then be secured to the base 104 with the cord enclosed inside. In another embodiment, the strap can be laid over the cord and then secured to the base 204.
A box stitching 212 can be implemented to attach the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 to the base 204. In an embodiment, ends 214 of the horizontal straps 206 and ends 216 of the vertical straps 208 can be attached by a box stitch to the base 204. It is to be appreciated that several different types of stitches can be used to couple the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 to the base 204. In some embodiments, snap fasteners and/or hook and loop patches can be implemented to attach the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 to the base 204.
The vertical straps 208 can further be attached to the base 204 where the vertical straps 208 intersect with the horizontal straps 206. In one example, double stitches can be implemented to attach the vertical straps 208 to the horizontal straps 206 and the base 204. In general, the vertical straps 208 can be attached on top of the horizontal straps 206. In an embodiment, the vertical straps 208 can be interleaved with the horizontal straps 206. In one example, the vertical straps 208 are attached to the base 204 at each end by box stitches and are further attached to the horizontal straps 206 and the base 204 by double stitches 218. It is to be appreciated that varying means of attaching the base 204, the horizontal straps 206, and the vertical straps 208 together can be implemented.
Depending on an intended application, the number of horizontal straps 206 and vertical straps 208 can be altered. For instance, in applications where the intended load is relatively light, only one vertical strap 208 can be implemented. For applications with higher intended loads, three or more vertical straps 208 can be implemented. As shown in
The horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 are generally comprised of a nylon webbing. In an embodiment, the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 are comprised of a polyurethane webbing. It is to be appreciated that the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 can be comprised of one of a plethora of materials. For instance, synthetic, organic, inorganic, woven, and nonwoven fabrics can be implemented. In an embodiment, the horizontal straps 206 can be comprised of the same material as the vertical straps 208. In another embodiment, the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 can be comprised of different materials.
Similar to the straps from the first embodiment, the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 can have varying widths. Generally, the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 have a width approximately between one inch and three inches. It is to be appreciated that the width of the straps can be more or less than the stated range without exceeding the scope of the specification.
A Third Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus for Use with an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)Referring to
As shown in
The ATV-model apparatus 300 can allow various pouches to be secured to the invention allowing the user to have a storage system designed for their specific duties and/or tasks. In the event the duties change, the user can change and adapt the system to meet the changing tasks at hand.
A Fourth Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus for Use with an Automotive or ATV Passenger/Rear SeatReferring to
The organizer is shown with different configurations in
The ATV organizer 402 shown in
As shown in
Referring to
The pouch attachment briefcase 500 can implement a strapping system 502 similar to the apparatus 202 described above. The strapping system 502 can be included on an exterior and an interior of the briefcase. The strapping system 502 can allow a user the ability to stock and carry additional resources into the field, such as ammunition in law enforcement, military, and recreational hunting applications. Weight-bearing pouches can be attached to the strapping system 502 on the interior of the briefcase 500 as shown in
The pouch attachment briefcase 500 is designed to allow a user to quickly and efficiently detach resources needed in the field without having to take an entire system or inventory of resources. Once depleted, a user has the ability to detach and discard the empty pouch, or to restock the entire briefcase. Quick-detach straps can be implemented to securely hold the strapping system 502 in place on the briefcase, while allowing the ability to quickly remove it for re-stocking or vehicle exchanges.
An Sixth Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus for Use with a Cargo BedReferring to
In an embodiment, the cargo bed apparatus 600 can implement one or more attachment structure 602 to secure to a cargo bed. As shown in
The cargo bed apparatus 600 allows a user to secure everyday items to the apparatus 600 by using rubber “Bungee” style straps, ratchet tie-downs, and/or any other types of straps available on the market. An example, in one embodiment, is a propane-gas canister being of an odd shape that is otherwise difficult to secure in a typical cargo area. The cargo bed apparatus 600 can be attached to an existing tie-down system of a truck or ATV to give a user various options for securing equipment and supplies using conventional straps already available on the market. Once a user has completed the task, the cargo bed apparatus 600 can easily be detached and removed from the cargo bed, then secured in a carry case and stored behind a vehicle seat or any other available storage location.
Alternative Embodiments and Other VariationsEach of the above-disclosed embodiments, variations, and applications of the system can be abstracted in myriad other potential applications that cannot adequately covered in this document. The key features of the system are based upon giving its user the ability to quickly and easily change the storage ability to ever-changing environments, including the ability to support. By choosing the applications and user needs related to their tasks, the system can be a key feature in allowing the user to be more efficient and effective at completing those tasks.
Accordingly, the various embodiments and variations thereof described herein and/or illustrated in the accompanying Figures are merely exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of the inventive disclosure. It should be appreciated that numerous variations of the invention have been contemplated as would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure. Hence, those ordinarily skilled in the art will have no difficulty devising myriad obvious variations and improvements to the invention, all of which are intended to be encompassed within the scope of the description and figures herein.
Claims
1. An apparatus for securing items to an object, the apparatus comprising:
- a fabric panel;
- a plurality of straps attached to the fabric panel in parallel, each of the plurality of straps folded longitudinally around a cord; and
- an attachment structure configured to couple the fabric panel to the object.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fabric panel comprises nylon.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of straps comprise a nylon webbing.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein one or more of the plurality of straps comprises a polyurethane webbing.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cord is 550 paracord.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the object is a car seat.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the object is a truck bed.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the object is a briefcase.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the object is an all-terrain vehicle.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:
- one or more pouches configured to attach to the plurality of straps.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fabric panel consists of one of:
- polypropylene webbing;
- polyurethane webbing;
- Kevlar;
- nylon webbing;
- polyester webbing;
- high density polyethylene webbing; and
- carbon fiber.
12. An apparatus for securing items to an object, the apparatus comprising:
- a fabric panel;
- a plurality of straps attached to the fabric panel in parallel, each of the plurality of straps folded longitudinally around a cord;
- at least one strap attached to the fabric panel perpendicularly to the plurality of straps; and
- an attachment structure configured to couple the fabric panel to the object.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the cord is 550 paracord.
14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the object consists of one of:
- a vehicle seat;
- a truck bed;
- a briefcase; and
- an all-terrain vehicle.
15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of straps comprise a nylon webbing.
16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein at least one of the plurality of straps comprises a polyurethane webbing.
17. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one strap comprises a polyurethane webbing.
18. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one strap comprises a nylon webbing.
19. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the fabric panel consists of one of:
- polypropylene webbing;
- polyurethane webbing;
- Kevlar;
- nylon webbing;
- polyester webbing;
- high density polyethylene webbing; and
- carbon fiber.
20. An apparatus for securing items to an object, the apparatus comprising:
- a fabric panel;
- a plurality of straps attached to the fabric panel in parallel, each of the plurality of straps comprising a nylon webbing folded longitudinally around a 550 paracord, wherein each of the plurality of straps are attached to the fabric panel by box stitches;
- at least one nylon webbing strap attached to the fabric panel perpendicularly to the plurality of straps, the at least one nylon webbing strap being attached by box stitches; and
- an attachment structure configured to couple the fabric panel to the object.
Type: Application
Filed: Jan 4, 2013
Publication Date: Aug 1, 2013
Inventor: Joseph M. Davidson (Castle Rock, CO)
Application Number: 13/734,212
International Classification: A45F 5/00 (20060101);