ASSEMBLY FOR CONVERTIBLE CARRYING BAG

Abstract

An assembly for a convertible carrying bag includes a frame that defines a periphery and an interior compartment and a covering that is disposed about the frame. The assembly further includes a plurality of frame brackets secured at various predetermined locations on the carrying bag. Each frame bracket includes an inner frame bracket and an outer frame bracket that are secured together with the frame and the covering disposed there between. At least one of the frame brackets defines a connector piece for receiving an accessory component, such as a handle, one or more straps, and/or an extensible handle, to allow a user to create a customized convertible carrying bag. In one embodiment, the inner frame bracket includes a latch biased by a spring and the outer frame bracket includes an outwardly depending prong that engages with the latch to secure the inner frame bracket and the out frame bracket together.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of the prior, co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 14/297,618, filed on Jun. 5, 2014, and now U.S. Pat. No. 9,265,320, issued on Feb. 23, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to carrying bags. More particularly, the invention relates to an assembly for a carrying bag that allows a user to readily convert the carrying bag from one form, function, use or appearance to another form, function, use or appearance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Carrying bags for personal use, such as book bags, computer cases, back packs, briefcases, carry-on luggage and the like, are well known. The various types of carrying bags each have a distinctive form, function, use and/or appearance. For example, book bags and computer cases typically include a single, relatively long strap that allows a user to support the weight of the bag by positioning the strap over his or her shoulder. In contrast, a backpack typically includes a pair of somewhat shorter length straps that allow a user to support the weight of the bag by positioning one or both of the straps over his or her shoulder(s). Briefcases and carry-on luggage typically have one or more relatively short straps defining a handle that allows a user to grasp the handle and carry the bag with his or her hand. Alternatively, or in addition, carry-on luggage may include an extensible handle and at least one wheel, roller or the like, that allow a user to easily maneuver (i.e. roll) the carry-on luggage across a generally planar surface by grasping and pulling the handle.

Each of the various types of carrying bags is particularly useful for its intended function. However, few are useful for multiple functions. For example, a book bag or computer case may be provided with both a relatively long carrying strap and a relatively short handle. Book bags and computer cases, however, are not configured to be readily converted to be positioned, supported and carried on a user's back. Similarly, carry-on luggage may be provided with a pocket or sleeve for containing one or more books, papers, office supplies and/or a laptop computer. Carry-on luggage, however, is not configured to be readily converted to include a relatively long strap for a user to carry the luggage over his or her shoulder.

Each of the various types of carrying bags may also have a distinctive size, shape, texture and/or and appearance. In particular, each carrying bag typically has a distinctive covering. Although the different types of carrying bags may be provided with various straps, handles, wheels, rollers or the like, none are configured to be readily converted from the appearance of one covering to the appearance of another covering, for example, by removing and replacing the covering with a covering having a different appearance.

Accordingly, what is needed is an assembly for a carrying bag that allows a user to readily convert the carrying bag from one form, function, use or appearance to another form, function, use or appearance. More particularly, an assembly for a carrying bag, such as a backpack, a book bag or a computer case, a briefcase, or rolling carry-on luggage, is needed that includes components configured to readily convert the carrying bag to another form, function, use or appearance by substituting a strap and/or a handle of the carrying bag, or by removing and replacing a covering. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a frame, a covering, and a plurality of frame brackets wherein at least one of the frame brackets defines a connector piece for receiving one or more straps, handles, wheels, rollers and the like. In another embodiment, the covering is disposed about the frame and is configured to be readily removed and replaced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the invention is embodied by an assembly for a carrying bag including a frame, a covering and a plurality of frame brackets. The frame defines a periphery and an interior compartment within the periphery. The covering is removably disposed about the frame. Each of the plurality of frame brackets includes an inner frame bracket and an outer frame bracket that are secured together with the frame and the covering disposed between the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket. At least one of the frame brackets defines a connector piece configured for receiving at least one accessory component.

In one embodiment, the frame has a plurality of openings formed therethrough and the covering has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the openings formed through the frame. The inner frame bracket has a plurality of recesses formed on an outer surface thereof. The outer frame bracket has a plurality of prongs projecting outwardly from an inner surface thereof that correspond to the recesses provided in the outer surface of the inner frame bracket. The prongs of the outer frame bracket are configured to be received within the recesses of the inner frame bracket and to engage with the inner frame bracket to thereby secure the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket together with the frame and the covering disposed between the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket.

In another embodiment, the frame includes a top, a bottom, and a pair of opposite sides that join the ends of the top and the bottom together. At least one of the top, the bottom and the pair of opposite sides has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that are configured for cooperating with at least one of the plurality of frame brackets. The covering includes a top panel, a bottom panel and a pair of opposite side panels. At least one of the top panel, the bottom panel and the pair of opposite side panels has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the plurality of openings formed through the top, the bottom and the pair of opposite sides of the frame. The top panel of the covering is disposed about the top of the frame, the bottom panel of the covering is disposed about the bottom of the frame, and each of the pair of opposite side panels of the covering is disposed about a corresponding one of the pair of opposite sides of the frame. In yet another embodiment, the frame further includes a top rear flange and at least one bottom rear flange. The top rear flange and the at least one bottom rear flange each has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that are configured for cooperating with at least one of the plurality of frame brackets. The covering further includes a rear panel. The rear panel has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the openings formed through the top rear flange and the at least one bottom rear flange and are configured for cooperating with at least one of the plurality of frame brackets.

In still another embodiment, one of the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket includes a biased latch and the other of the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket includes at least one prong configured for engaging with the latch to secure the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket together. The latch is biased outwardly by a linear spring, and the latch is configured to be depressed against the spring and thereby release the prong from the latch to separate the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket. Furthermore, an inner surface of the inner frame bracket and an outer surface of the outer frame bracket are each generally smooth and continuous.

In another aspect, the invention is embodied by an assembly for a convertible carrying bag including a frame defining a continuous periphery and an interior compartment wherein the frame has a plurality of openings formed therethrough. The assembly further includes a covering disposed about the frame such that the frame is encased within the covering. The covering has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the plurality of openings formed through the frame. The assembly further includes a plurality of frame brackets positioned at a plurality of predetermined locations on the frame. Each of the frame brackets includes an inner frame bracket and an outer frame bracket that are configured to be secured together through the openings of the frame and the openings of the covering with the frame and the covering disposed between the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket.

In one embodiment, the frame includes a top, a bottom and a pair of opposite sides that extend between and join together the ends of the top and the bottom. The covering includes a top panel that is disposed about the top of the frame, a bottom panel that is disposed about the bottom of the frame and a pair of opposite side panels that are disposed about the opposite sides of the frame. In another embodiment, one of the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket includes a biased latch and the other of the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket includes a prong that engages with the latch to thereby secure the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket together. The latch is biased outwardly by a linear spring disposed between the latch and a mechanical stop. The latch is depressed to thereby release the prong and separate the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

The invention, as well as the features, objects and advantages thereof set forth herein, will be better understood and appreciated when considered in light of the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawing figures, in which like reference characters indicate the same or similar parts, elements, components, assemblies and/or subassemblies of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing a carrying bag that is constructed from an assembly for a convertible carrying bag according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the carrying bag of FIG. 1, with a handle and a strap of the carrying bag shown exploded for purposes of illustration.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the carrying bag of FIG. 1, with the carrying bag shown in an opened configuration.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the carrying bag of FIG. 1 in the opened configuration, with an insert shown exploded for purposes of illustration.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a frame of the assembly for a convertible carrying bag according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the frame of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the frame of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of the frame of FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 is a plan view of a covering of the assembly for a convertible carrying bag according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the frame of FIG. 5 and the covering of FIG. 9, with the frame shown exploded for purposes of illustration.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view showing a method of disposing the covering of FIG. 9 about the frame of FIG. 5 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, with the frame and the covering in an initial configuration.

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view showing the method of disposing the covering of FIG. 9 about the frame of FIG. 5, with the frame and the covering in an intermediate configuration.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view showing the method of disposing the covering of FIG. 9 about the frame of FIG. 5, with the frame and the covering in a final configuration.

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a fully assembled convertible carrying bag including a plurality of frame brackets according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention secured on the frame and the covering of FIG. 13, with one of the frame brackets shown exploded for purposes of illustration.

FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view taken in the direction indicated by line 15-15 in FIG. 16 of a typical frame bracket, with the outer frame bracket and the outer surface of the inner frame bracket removed for purposes of illustration.

FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view taken in the direction indicated by line 16-16 in FIG. 15 of the typical frame bracket, with the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket shown in a secured, or attached, configuration.

FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view similar to the cross sectional view of FIG. 16, with the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket of the typical frame bracket shown in an unsecured, or detached, configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The invention is next described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawing figures in which one or more exemplary embodiments are shown. It is to be understood, however, that the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein. Exemplary embodiments of the invention are provided herein so that this disclosure will fully convey the broad scope of the invention as well as enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make, use and practice the invention without undue experimentation. As previously mentioned, like reference characters in the following detailed description and in the accompanying drawing figures refer to the same or similar parts, elements, components, assemblies and/or subassemblies of the invention.

FIG. 1 shows a carrying bag, indicated generally herein by reference character CB, constructed from an assembly for a convertible carrying bag according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The term “convertible” as used herein is intended to mean that the carrying bag is capable of changing, or being changed, from one form, function, use or appearance to another form, function, use or appearance. The carrying bag CB may be any type of carrying bag for personal use, such as a book bag, computer case, back pack, briefcase, carry-on luggage and the like. The various types of carrying bags typically have a distinctive form, function, use and/or appearance suitable for a desired purpose. By way of illustration and not limitation, the carrying bag CB in the exemplary embodiments of the invention shown and described herein is a personal back pack. However, it should be understood and appreciated that the carrying bag CB may be any type of carrying bag, including by way of example and not limitation, any of the various carrying bags shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,265,320 issued to the applicant of the present application. The assembly comprises a frame 20, a covering 30, and a plurality of frame brackets 40. At least one of the frame brackets 40 defines a connector piece 50 that is configured for receiving at least one accessory component 60 for a purpose to be described hereafter. The frame 20, covering 30 and the frame brackets 40 are assembled together to form a convertible carrying bag CB according to the present invention.

The carrying bag CB, and specifically the back pack shown and described in the exemplary embodiments provided herein, is depicted in FIGS. 1-4. FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a front F of the back pack that is positioned away from a user when the back pack is carried on the back of the user. FIG. 1 shows the covering 30, also referred to herein as the “skin,” and a plurality of the frame brackets 40 secured on the covering. Each of the two frame brackets 40 located on a top T of the back pack define a connector piece 50 configured for receiving a first accessory component 60 in the form of a handle H. The covering 30 is disposed about the frame 20, and thus, on both the inside and the outside the back pack. As such, the frame 20 is not visible in FIGS. 1-4. The front F is attached to the rest of the back pack along a bottom B of the back pack in a manner that will be described hereafter. The remainder, and more particularly, the opposite sides and the top of the front F, is separable from the rest of the back pack in any suitable manner, for example by a conventional zipper Z having a clasp C for opening and closing the back pack.

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a rear R of the back pack that is positioned against a user when the back pack is carried on the back of the user. FIG. 2 shows the covering 30 and a plurality of the frame brackets 40 secured on the covering. Each of the two frame brackets 40 located on the top T of the back pack define a connector piece 50 for receiving handle H, as previously described with respect to FIG. 1. Each of the four frame brackets 40 located on the rear R of the back pack define a connector piece 50 configured for receiving a second accessory component 62 in the form of a pair of straps S. If desired, padding P may be provided on the rear R of the back pack for cushioning the weight of the back pack when the back pack is carried on the back of the user. Handle H (accessory component 60) and one of the straps S (accessory component 62) are shown exploded in FIG. 2 for purposes of illustration only. However, it should be understood and appreciated that the straps S may be removed and the corresponding frame brackets 40 replaced with frame brackets that do not define a connector piece 50 so as to convert the back pack to a conventional book bag, computer case or briefcase type of carrying bag CB.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective of the back pack with the back pack shown in an opened configuration so as to illustrate an interior compartment IC defined by the back pack. As shown, one or more pockets PK may be provided on the interior side of the front F of the back pack for containing books, papers, notebooks, office supplies or the like in an organized fashion. Pockets PK may be formed in any suitable manner, for example by sewing, stitching, gluing, taping or otherwise fastening (e.g. with hook and loop fasteners) the pockets to the interior side of the front F of the back pack. Also, or in the alternative, an insert I may be provided that is configured (i.e., sized and shaped) to be received within the interior compartment IC between the front F and the rear R of the back pack. The insert I may be configured for containing books, papers, notebooks, office supplies or the like in an organized fashion. In a particular example, at least a portion of the insert I is sized and shaped to contain a laptop computer, tablet or similar mobile computing device. If desired, the insert I may be permanently or removably attached to the rear R of the back pack. Alternatively, the insert I may be loosely positioned within the interior compartment IC of the back pack so as to be readily removable when the back pack is opened. FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the back pack shown in the opened configuration with the insert I positioned within the interior compartment IC of the back pack.

The frame 20 of the assembly is shown in detail in FIGS. 5-8. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the frame 20. FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the frame 20. FIG. 7 is a top plan view and FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of the frame 20. The covering 30 of the assembly is shown in detail in FIG. 9. FIGS. 10-13 illustrate a method according to the present invention for disposing the covering 30 about the frame 20. FIG. 14 shows a plurality of the frame brackets 40 secured on the covering 30 at various locations of the carrying bag CB. A typical one of the frame brackets 40 in FIG. 14 is shown exploded from the covering 30 for purposes of illustration only. The typical frame bracket 40 is shown in detail and the manner of operation of the frame bracket is illustrated in FIGS. 15-17.

For purposes of convenience with regard to this description of exemplary embodiments provided herein, the frame 20 has a top 21, a bottom 22, and a pair of opposite sides 23 that extend between and join together the ends of the top and the ends of the bottom of the frame. Thus, the top 21, bottom 22 and opposite sides 23 of the frame 20 together form a continuous periphery having a generally rectangular shape that defines an open interior 24. As shown herein, frame 20 further has a top rear flange 25 adjacent the top 21 that extends between the opposite sides 23 of the frame. In addition, frame 20 has a pair of bottom rear flanges 26 adjacent the bottom 22, with each bottom rear flange 26 joining the bottom 22 and one of the opposite sides 23. Frame 20 further has a plurality of openings 28 formed therethrough. By way of example only and not limitation, the top 21 of frame 20 has a total of eight through openings 28, while the bottom 22 has a total of twelve through openings 28. Each opposite side 23 of the frame 20 has a total of eight through openings 28. Although not shown, the top rear flange 25 has a total of eight through openings 28, and the pair of bottom rear flanges 26 together has a total of eight through openings 28. As shown in the exemplary embodiments herein, openings 28 are depicted as being generally round (circular) holes. However, openings 28 may have any suitable shape, including by way of example and not limitation, oval, elliptical, square, rectangular, polygon or the like. Furthermore, adjacent pairs of the openings 28 may be joined together to define an elongate slot, as long as the structural integrity of the frame 20 is not compromised. In addition, the openings 28 may be arranged in different patterns and/or at different locations than depicted herein. Regardless, the openings 28 are provided in the frame 20 for a purpose that will be described hereinafter.

The frame 20 is made of a material that is somewhat flexible, yet tends to retain or return to its original shape once an applied force (e.g., a load) is removed. By way of example and not limitation, the frame 20 may be made of a soft plastic material, such as polyurethane, or a rubber material. In one embodiment, the frame 20 may be molded as a unitary, integral component. Alternatively, the frame 20 may be formed in multiple components that are joined together, for example by an adhesive at overlapping joints. As shown herein, the top 21 of the frame 20 is narrower in side-to-side width than the bottom 22. In addition, each of the opposite sides 23 is narrower in depth adjacent the top 21 than adjacent the bottom 22. As a result, the interior 24 is somewhat wider and has somewhat greater depth adjacent the bottom 22 than adjacent the top 21. However, the frame 20 may have any desired dimensions and may define any desired configuration (i.e., size and shape). Regardless, the frame 20 will be encased by the covering 30 such that the covering is entirely disposed about the frame, as will be described hereafter. In advantageous embodiments, the covering 30 is made of a relatively flexible material, such as thin plastic, vinyl, fabric, leather or the like. Covering 30 has openings 38 formed therethrough in a pattern matching the pattern of through openings 28 formed in the frame 20 for a purpose that will be made apparent hereafter. A plurality of frame brackets 40 will then be secured together over the frame 20 and the covering 30, as will be described hereafter. With the frame brackets 40 secured onto the frame 20 and the covering 30, the assembly provides the desired structural rigidity for the convertible carrying bag CB.

FIG. 9 is a plan view of the covering 30 of the assembly for a convertible carrying bag according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. More specifically, FIG. 9 depicts a flat pattern of the covering 30 formed from the thin, relatively flexible material of the covering. As shown herein, the covering 30 comprises a first pattern 30′ and an optional second pattern 30″ for a purpose to be described hereafter. The first pattern 30′ has a top panel 31, a bottom panel 32′, a pair of opposite side panels 33, a rear panel 34, a front panel 35 and an inner panel 36′. Similarly, the optional second pattern 30″ comprises a bottom panel 32″ and an inner panel 36″. The first pattern 30′ and the second pattern 30″ each define one or more fold lines, as depicted by the phantom lines in FIG. 9. The fold lines indicate where the patterns 30′, 30″ are to be folded in order to dispose, and in particular to wrap, the patterns about the frame 20 in the manner illustrated in FIGS. 10-13 herein. Furthermore, the heavy lines in FIG. 9 depict the line along which the optional pattern 30″, if utilized, is attached to the pattern 30′.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the frame 20 and the covering 30 with the frame shown exploded from the covering for purposes of illustration. It should be noted that a free edge of the bottom panel 32″ of the second pattern 30″ is attached to the fold line between the front panel 35 and the bottom panel 32′ of the first pattern 30′. The second pattern 30″ may be attached to the first pattern 30′ in any suitable manner, for example by sewing, stitching, gluing, fasteners (e.g., hook and loop type fasteners) or the like. It should also be noted that each of the panels of the first pattern 30′ and the second pattern 30″ are provided with at least one attachment member 39 for a purpose to be described hereafter. Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, optional pockets PK are provided on the interior side of the front panel 35 of the first pattern 30′. Although not shown, one or more pockets PK may also be provided on the interior side of the inner panel 36′ of the first pattern 30′, or alternatively, on the interior side of the inner panel 36″ of the second pattern 30″. The term “interior side” as used herein is intended to mean the side of the generally planar inner panel 36′, 36″ that is adjacent the interior compartment IC defined by the carrying bag CB.

FIGS. 11-13 show a method of disposing the covering 30 about the frame 20 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 11 shows the frame 20 and the covering 30 comprising the first pattern 30′ and the second pattern 30″ attached to the first pattern in an initial configuration of the assembly. In particular, the frame 20 is positioned on the rear panel 34 of the first pattern 30′ with the top 21 of the frame 20 adjacent the top panel 31 of the first pattern 30′ and the bottom 22 of the frame 20 adjacent the bottom panel 32′ of the first pattern 30′. The top panel 31 of the first pattern 30′ is folded along the fold line with the rear panel 34 such that the inner portion of the top panel 31 is positioned parallel to and in contact with the exterior surface of the top 21 of the frame 20. Each of the pair of opposite side panels 33 of the first pattern 30′ is likewise folded along the fold line with the rear panel 34 such that the inner portion of each side panel 33 is positioned parallel to and in contact with the exterior surface of the respective one of the opposite sides 23 of the frame 20. Similarly, the bottom panel 32′ of the first pattern 30′ is folded along the fold line with the rear panel 34 such that the bottom panel 32′ is positioned parallel to and in contact with the exterior surface of the bottom 22 of the frame 20. It should be noted that the plurality of through openings 38 formed in the inner portion of the top panel 31, the inner portions of the opposite side panels 33 and the bottom panel 32′ are aligned with the corresponding through openings 28 formed in the top 21, the opposite sides 23 and the bottom 22, respectively, of the frame 20.

FIG. 12 shows the frame 20 and the covering 30 comprising first pattern 30′ and second pattern 30″ in an intermediate configuration of the assembly. In particular, the top panel 31 of the first pattern 30′ is folded again along the medial fold line between the inner portion of the top panel 31 and the outer portion of the top panel 31 such that the outer portion of the top panel 31 is positioned parallel to and in contact with the interior surface of the top 21 of the frame. The opposite side panel 33 of the first pattern 30′ that is not adjacent to the inner panel 36′ is next folded again along the medial fold line between the inner portion of the side panel 33 and the outer portion of the side panel 33 such that the outer portion of the side panel 33 is positioned parallel to and in contact with the interior surface of the corresponding opposite side 23 of the frame 20. Next, the second pattern 30″ is folded along the fold line between the bottom panel 32′ and the front panel 35 of the first pattern 30′ (which is also the line along which the second pattern 30″ is attached to the first pattern 30′), such that the bottom panel 32″ of the second pattern 30″ is positioned parallel to and in contact with the interior surface of the bottom 22 of the frame 20. The second pattern 30″ is then again folded along the fold line between the bottom panel 32″ and the inner panel 36″ of the second pattern 30″, such that the inner panel 36″ of the second pattern 30″ is positioned parallel to and in contact with the rear panel 34 of the first pattern 30′. It should be noted that the plurality of through openings 38 formed in the outer portion of the top panel 31 and the outer portion of the opposite side panel 33 of the first pattern 30′, as well as the through openings 38 formed in the bottom panel 32′ of the second pattern 30″, are aligned with the corresponding through openings 28 formed in the top 21, the opposite side 23 and the bottom 22, respectively, of the frame 20.

Furthermore, the attachment member(s) 39 provided on the top panel 31 secure the top panel 31 about the top 21 of the frame 20. Likewise, the attachment member(s) 39 provided on the opposite side panel 33 secure the side panel 33 about the corresponding opposite side 23 of the frame 20. The attachment members 39 may be any suitable means for securing the top panel 31 and the opposite side panels 33 about (i.e., over and around) the top 21 and the opposite sides 23, respectively, of the frame 20 such that the covering 30 can be readily removed from the frame 20 and replaced on the frame 20. By way of example and not limitation, the attachment members 39 may comprise snaps, hooks, temporary adhesives, hook and loop type fasteners and the like. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the attachment members 39 comprise magnets. Complementary magnets may be provided on at least the interior surface of the top 21 and on at least the interior surfaces of the opposite sides 23 of the frame 20 for engaging with the magnets 39 provided on the top panel 31 and the opposite side panels 33, respectively, of the first pattern 30′ of the covering 30. Alternatively, complementary magnets 39 may be provided on both the inner portion and the outer portion of the top panel 31, and both the inner portions and the outer portions of the opposite side panels 33. In the latter instance, magnets 39 must be made sufficiently strong to secure the inner portion and the outer portion of the top panel 31 through the top 21 of the frame 20, and likewise, secure the inner portions and the outer portions of the opposite side panels 33 through the opposite sides 23 of the frame 20.

FIG. 13 shows the frame 20 and the covering 30 comprising first pattern 30′ and second pattern 30″ in a final configuration of the assembly. As shown in FIG. 13, the opposite side panel 33 adjacent the inner panel 36′ of the first pattern 30′ is next folded again along the medial fold line between the inner portion of the side panel 33 and the outer portion of the side panel 33 such that the outer portion of the side panel 33 is positioned parallel to and in contact with the interior surface of the corresponding opposite side 23 of the frame 20. The inner panel 36′ is then folded along the fold line between the opposite side panel 33 such that the inner panel 36′ is positioned parallel to and in contact with the inner panel 36″ of the second pattern 30″, which was previously positioned parallel to and in contact with the rear panel 34 of the first pattern 30′. Alternatively, the bottom panel 32″ of the second pattern 30″ may be folded parallel to the bottom 22 of the frame 20 and the inner panel 36″ of the second pattern 30″ may be folded parallel to the rear panel 34 and the inner panel 36′ of the first pattern 30′ after the inner panel 36′ of the first pattern 30′ is folded parallel to and in contact with the rear panel 34 of the first pattern 30′.

It should be noted that the plurality of through openings 38 formed in the bottom panel 32″ of the second pattern 30″ are aligned with the corresponding through openings 28 formed in the bottom 22 of the frame 20. Furthermore, the attachment member(s) 39 provided on the bottom panel 32′ of the first pattern 30′ and the bottom panel 32″ of the second pattern 30″ secure the bottom panel 32′ and the bottom panel 32″ about the bottom 22 of the frame 20 in the manner previously described. Likewise, the attachment member(s) 39 provided on the inner panel 36′ of the first pattern 30′ and the inner panel 36″ of the second pattern 30″ secure the inner panel 36″ and the inner panel 36′ to each other, and in addition, the rear panel 34 of the first pattern 30′. Furthermore, cutouts, recesses or the like are formed in the inner panel 36″ of the second pattern 30″ to allow access to the through openings 38 formed in the rear panel 34 and the inner panel 36′ of the first pattern 30′ that are aligned with the through openings 28 formed in the top rear flange 25 and the bottom rear flanges 26 of the frame 20. As also shown in FIGS. 10-13, opposite outer side edges of the front panel 35 of the first pattern 30′ of the covering 30 may be joined together with an outer top edge of the front panel 35, if desired, such that the front panel 35 serves to cover the opposite sides and the top when the back pack is in a closed configuration.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a fully assembled convertible carry bag CB including a plurality of frame brackets 40 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The frame brackets 40 are secured at various predetermined locations on the carrying bag CB with the frame 20 and the covering 30 disposed there between. More specifically, each frame bracket 40 comprises an inner frame bracket 41 and an outer frame bracket 45. As will be described more fully and in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 15-17, the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 are secured together with the frame 20 encased by the covering 30 disposed between the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45. In particular, the frame brackets 40 each comprise means for securing the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 together through the openings 38 provided in the covering 30 that are aligned with the openings 28 provided in the frame 20. In the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein, there are two (2) frame brackets 40 located on the top 21 of the frame 20 and two (2) frame brackets 40 located on each of the opposite sides 23 of the frame 20. In addition, there are two (2) frame brackets 40 located on the top rear flange 25 of the frame 20 and two (2) frame brackets 40 located on the bottom rear flanges 26 of the frame 20. One or more frame brackets 40 may also be located along the bottom 22 of the frame 20. However, the number and the locations of the frame brackets 40 shown are for purposes of illustration only. Consequently, any number of the frame brackets 40 may be located at any desired locations on a convertible carrying bag CB constructed and assembled according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view taken along the line 15-15 indicated in FIG. 16 of a typical one of the frame brackets 40 illustrated in FIG. 14 shown with the outer frame bracket 45 and the outer surface of the inner frame bracket 41 removed for purposes of illustration. In particular, FIG. 15 is a top plan view showing the interior of the inner frame bracket 41. However, it should be noted that the relative positions of the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 may be reversed and that the terms “inner” and “outer” are used herein with reference to the frame bracket 40 merely for purposes of convenience and illustration. Furthermore, the configurations of the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 may be interchanged. The outer surfaces of the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 are solid and smooth. As such, both the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 present the same solid, smooth, finished surface regardless of their position on the inside or the outside of the carrying bag CB.

Regardless, the inner frame bracket 41 defines a generally hollow interior. In the exemplary embodiment shown and described herein, the inner frame bracket 41 is bi-symmetric. More particularly, the inner frame bracket 41 is symmetric about two mutually perpendicular axes. As a result, the inner frame bracket 41, in combination with the corresponding outer frame bracket 45), defines four (4) separate and identical attachment points. Accordingly, only one of the attachment points need be described in greater detail herein, the other attachment points being essentially the same in structure and function for purposes of the present invention. The inner frame bracket 41 comprises a latch 42 that is biased outwardly by a linear spring 43. A first end of the linear spring engages the latch 42 and the opposite second end of the linear spring 43 is restrained within a mechanical stop 44. In one embodiment, the latch 42 has a generally L-shaped leg 42′ that engages with the first end of the linear spring 43, for a purpose to be described hereafter.

FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view taken along the line 16-16 indicated in FIG. 15 of the frame bracket 40 shown with the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 in a secured, or attached, configuration for purposes of illustration. Outer frame bracket 45 is also bi-symmetrical about two mutually perpendicular axes, and thus, likewise defines the four (4) separate and identical attachment points, only one of which need be described in greater detail hereafter. Outer frame bracket 45 comprises at least one prong 46 that depends outwardly from an inner surface of the outer frame bracket 45. As shown herein, each prong 46 is generally L-shaped and has a beveled or angled leading edge 47.

With the outer frame bracket 45 positioned over and opposite the inner frame bracket 41, the prong 46 is configured (sized and shaped) to be received within a recess 48 provided in the outer surface of the inner frame bracket 41. As the outer frame bracket 45 and the inner frame bracket 41 are moved into engagement with one another, the leading edge 47 of the prong 46 of the outer frame bracket 45 contacts the leg 42′ of the latch 42 of the inner frame bracket 41 and causes the latch 42 to move inwardly and thereby depress the spring 43 between the latch 42 and the stop 44. Once the leading edge 47 of the prong 46 passes the leg 42′ of the latch 42, the spring 43 once again biases the latch 42 outwardly such that the leg 41′ of the latch 42 secures the prong 46 of the outer frame bracket 45 within the hollow interior of the inner frame bracket 41, as illustrated in FIG. 16.

FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view similar to the cross sectional view of FIG. 16 of the frame bracket 40 shown with the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 in an unsecured, or detached, configuration for purposes of illustration. The latch 42 of the inner frame bracket 41 is depressed inwardly, as indicated by the horizontal arrows in FIG. 17, to thereby depress the spring 43 against the stop 44. With the spring 43 depressed, the prong 46 of the outer frame bracket 45 may be passed through the recess 48 in the outer surface of the inner frame bracket 41 by moving the outer frame bracket 45 relative to the inner frame bracket 41 in the direction indicated by the vertical arrow in FIG. 17. Once the leading edge 47 of the prong 46 of the outer frame bracket 45 is clear of the leg 42′ of the latch 42 of the inner frame bracket 41, the spring 43 once again biases the latch 42 of the inner frame bracket 41 outwardly. As previously mentioned, the relative positions of the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 may be reversed depending on whether it is desired to locate the latch 42 on the interior or the exterior of the carrying bag CB. In the exemplary embodiments shown herein, the latches 42 of the frame brackets 40 are located on the interior of the carrying bag CB for purposes of convenience and aesthetics. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand and appreciate that the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 may be reversed and/or the latch 42 and the prong 46 provided on either of the frame brackets as desired.

It should be noted, as will be readily understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art, that each of the frame brackets 40 located on the carrying bag CB may be assembled and secured onto the carrying bag CB with the frame 20 and the covering 30 disposed between the inner frame bracket 41 and the outer frame bracket 45 in essentially the same manner described herein and illustrated in FIGS. 15-17. It should also be noted that FIG. 14 illustrates the covering 30 encasing the frame 20 and the frame brackets 40 disposed about the frame 20 and the covering 30. However, it may be envisioned that the inner frame brackets 41 are attached to the frame 20 and the covering 30 is disposed about (over) the frame 20 and the inner frame brackets 41. The inner frame brackets 41 are then provided with the outwardly depending prongs 46 and the outer frame brackets 45 are provided with the latches 42 and configured to engage with and disengage from the inner frame brackets 41. In this manner, the covering 30 prevents the inner frame brackets 41 from being exposed on the interior of the carrying bag CB and thereby protects the contents of the carrying bag CB from possibly being damaged by any sharp edges of the inner frame bracket 41. At the same time, the aesthetic appeal of the outer frame brackets 45 on the exterior of the carrying bag CB is preserved. In this alternative embodiment, the covering 30 need only be provided with through openings 38 corresponding to the through openings 28 of the frame 20 on the inner portion of the top panel 31, the inner portion of the bottom panel 32′, the inner portions of the opposite side panels 33, and the rear panel 34. Such modification, as well as other obvious modifications, to the frame 20, the covering 30 and the frame brackets 40 of the assembly for a convertible carrying bag CB, are considered to require no more than an ordinary level of skill in the art, and consequently, are intended to be encompassed by the invention, as defined by the claims appended hereto.

The foregoing detailed description of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures illustrates exemplary embodiments of an assembly for a convertible carrying bag. In exemplary embodiments, an assembly according to the invention includes a frame defining a continuous outer periphery and an interior compartment and a covering that is disposed about the frame. A plurality of frame brackets include an inner frame bracket and an outer frame bracket that are secured together with the frame and the covering disposed there between. At least one of the frame brackets defines a connector piece for receiving an accessory component, such as a handle, one or more straps, an extensible handle, or the like. In this manner, a user can customize the assembly for a convertible carrying bag, for example as a backpack, a book bag or a computer case, a briefcase or rolling carry-on luggage. In addition, a user may select a particular type of handle, straps and/or extensible handle to create a customized convertible carrying bag that is also personalized to his or her tastes, interests and/or desires.

Claims

1. An assembly for a convertible carrying bag, comprising:

a frame defining a periphery and an interior compartment within the periphery;

a covering disposed about the frame; and

a plurality of frame brackets removably secured on the carrying bag, each frame bracket comprising an inner frame bracket and an outer frame bracket that are secured together with the frame and the covering disposed between the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the frame brackets defines at least one connector piece for receiving an accessory component.

3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the accessory component comprises at least one of a handle, a strap, an extendible handle, a wheel and a roller.

4. A frame assembly according to claim 1, wherein the frame defines a continuous periphery comprising a top, a bottom, and a pair of opposite sides that join the ends of the top and the bottom together.

5. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the top, the bottom and the pair of opposite sides has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that are configured for cooperating with at least one of the plurality of frame brackets.

6. The assembly according to claim 5, wherein the covering comprises a top panel, a bottom panel and a pair of opposite side panels, and wherein at least one of the top panel, the bottom panel and the pair of opposite side panels has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the plurality of openings formed through the at least one of the top, the bottom and the pair of opposite sides of the frame.

7. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein the covering defines a continuous first pattern comprising a top panel, a bottom panel and a pair of opposite side panels that correspond to the top, the bottom and the pair of opposite sides of the frame.

8. The assembly according to claim 7, wherein the top panel of the first pattern is disposed about the top of the frame, the bottom panel of the first pattern is disposed about the bottom of the frame, and each of the pair of opposite side panels of the first pattern is disposed about a corresponding one of the pair of opposite sides of the frame.

9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the top, the bottom, and the pair of opposite sides of the frame has a plurality of openings formed therethrough, and wherein at least one of the top panel, the bottom panel and the pair of opposite side panels of the first pattern has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the plurality of openings of the frame and are configured for cooperating with at least one of the plurality of frame brackets.

10. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein the covering defines a continuous second pattern that comprises a bottom panel and an inner panel, and wherein the bottom panel of the second pattern is attached to the bottom panel of the first pattern.

11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein the bottom panel of the second pattern is disposed about the bottom of the frame, and wherein the bottom panel of the second pattern has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the openings formed through the bottom of the frame and are configured for cooperating with at least one of the plurality of frame brackets.

12. The assembly according to claim 6, wherein the frame further comprises a top rear flange and at least one bottom rear flange, and wherein the top rear flange and the at least one bottom rear flange each has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that are configured for cooperating with at least one of the plurality of frame brackets.

13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein the covering further comprises a rear panel, and wherein the rear panel has a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the openings formed through the top rear flange and the at least one bottom rear flange and are configured for cooperating with at least one of the plurality of frame brackets.

14. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein one of the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket comprises a biased latch and the other of the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket comprises at least one prong configured for engaging with the latch to secure the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket together.

15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the latch is biased outwardly by a linear spring, and wherein the latch is configured to be depressed against the spring and thereby release the prong from the latch to separate the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket.

16. The assembly according to claim 15, wherein an inner surface of the inner frame bracket and an outer surface of the outer frame bracket are each generally smooth and continuous.

17. An assembly for a convertible carrying bag, comprising:

a frame defining a continuous periphery and an interior compartment, the frame having a plurality of openings formed therethrough;

a covering disposed about the frame such that the frame is encased within the covering, the covering having a plurality of openings formed therethrough that correspond to the plurality of openings formed through the frame; and

a plurality of frame brackets positioned at a plurality of predetermined locations on the frame, each of the frame brackets comprising an inner frame bracket and an outer frame bracket that are configured to be secured together through the openings of the frame and the openings of the covering with the frame and the covering disposed between the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket.

18. The assembly according to claim 17, wherein the frame comprises a top, a bottom and a pair of opposite sides that extend between and join together the ends of the top and the bottom, and wherein the covering comprises a top panel that is disposed about the top of the frame, a bottom panel that is disposed about the bottom of the frame and a pair of opposite side panels that are disposed about the opposite sides of the frame.

19. The assembly according to claim 17, wherein one of the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket comprises a biased latch and the other of the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket comprises a prong that engages with the latch to thereby secure the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket together.

20. The assembly according to claim 19, wherein the latch is biased outwardly by a linear spring disposed between the latch and a mechanical stop, and wherein the latch is depressed to thereby release the prong and separate the inner frame bracket and the outer frame bracket.