COMBINED SATCHEL AND TRAVEL PILLOW

Abstract

A combined satchel and travel pillow includes a front and rear panel that comprise at least one foam or gel cushion, and forms a pocket with an interior therein with an opening to removably receive a sealable packet therein, the sealable packet which can removably store items, e.g., personal items. The pocket includes sets of complementary fasteners to secure the pocket in one or more folded configurations. The cushions can include countered and, or textures surfaces. The cushions can include one or more fabric or material covers over all or a portion of the cushion. The front and rear panels can be formed by respective individual cushions, or by a single cushion with one or more fold lines delimiting the front panel from the rear panel.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This description generally relates to travel pillows.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Many travelers choose to carry travel pillows. Travel pillows can be used to provide support for portions of the traveler, for example while seated in an airplane, bus, train or other vehicle. Some travel pillows are designed to be worn around the neck, to provide support to the head of a traveler. Travel pillows often have a generally annular or U-shape, with the closed portion of the U-shape typically positioned at a back of the neck.

Travelers will often forget to pack their travel pillow, and will have to purchase a new travel pillow at the site of their departure, e.g., airport, train station, bus station. The price charged for a travel pillow at these locations is often significantly higher than what is charged at other locations or via mail order.

When traveling with a travel pillow the traveler must carry the travel pillow along with the various other items which a traveler may carry on-board the vehicle rather than checking into stowed luggage, e.g., smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, books, magazines, boarding pass, pens, notebook, keys, wallet, passport, other identification. It can be difficult to manage all of these “personal” items while passing through security checkpoints, boarding checkpoints and in boarding the vehicle which may have very confined spaces.

BRIEF SUMMARY

A combined satchel and travel pillow may advantageously allow a traveler, or other person, to store personal items in the travel pillow, and easily retrieve.

A combined pillow and satchel may be summarized as including: a front panel having a length, a width, and an uncompressed thickness; a back panel having a length, a width, and an uncompressed thickness, the back panel coupled to the front panel to form a pocket having an interior cavity with an opening proximate a top thereof that provides access into the interior cavity from an exterior thereof, the uncompressed thicknesses of the front and the back panels in sum being at least one and one half (1½) inches thick; a closure that is positioned and manually operable to selectively open and close the opening that provides access into the interior cavity from the exterior thereof; and at least a first set of fasteners that are positioned and manually operable to selectively secure the pocket in a first folded configuration, when folded about an axis that extends parallel to the lengths of the front and the back panels or the widths of the front and the back panels.

The pocket may be closed along a bottom thereof and closed along a pair of opposed sides thereof, the sides opposed to one another across the lengths of the front and back panels and the bottom opposed to the top across the widths of the front and the back panels. The front and the back panel may include at least one of a foam cushion or a gel cushion with a fold-line extending therebetween. The front and the back panel may include a cover piece of material that at least partially covers the at least one of the foam or the gel cushions. The at least one of the foam or the gel cushions may include at least one contoured surface having a contour in when uncompressed. The at least one of the foam or the gel cushions may include at least one textured surface having a plurality of discontinuities when uncompressed. The front and the back panel may each include respective ones of at least one of a foam cushion or a gel cushion. The front and the back panel may each include a respective cover piece of material that at least partially covers the at least one of the foam or the gel cushions. The first folded configuration may be folded along vertical axis, and the first set of fasteners may include at least one pair of complementary fasteners, one fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a first edge that extends between the top and a bottom of the pocket and another fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a second edge that extends between the top and the bottom of the pocket. The combined pillow and satchel may further include: at least a second set of fasteners that are positioned and manually operable to selectively secure the pocket in a second folded configuration, the second folded configuration is folded along horizontal axis, and the second set of fasteners include at least one pair of complementary fasteners, one fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a top edge that extends between the first and the second side edges of the pocket and another fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a bottom edge that extends between the first and the second side edges of the pocket. The complementary fasteners of the first and the second sets of fasteners may include at least one of a zipper, hook and loop fastener, snaps, ties, buttons and button holes, or elastic loop and peg. The first folded configuration may be folded along horizontal axis, and the first set of fasteners include at least one pair of complementary fasteners, one fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a top edge that extends between a first side edge and a second side edge of the pocket and another fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a bottom edge that extends between the first and the second side edges of the pocket. The fasteners of the first set of fasteners may include at least one of a zipper, hook and loop fastener, snaps, ties, buttons and button holes, or elastic loop and peg. The combined pillow and satchel may include: a sealable packet, the sealable packet having an interior to removably receive personal items therein, the sealable packet sized and dimensioned to be removably received in the interior of the pocket via the opening along with any contents of the sealable packet. The sealable packet may be transparent and may include one of a zipper or a tongue and complementary groove that repeatedly opens and closes the sealable packet. The closure may include a flap with at least one pair of complementary fasteners, a first one of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners and a second one of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners to detachably couple to one another. The at least one pair of complementary fasteners may include at least one of a zipper, hook and loop fastener, snaps, ties, buttons and button holes. The front panel may include four edges including a top edge, an bottom edge, and a pair of opposed side edges, the back panel may include four edges including a top edge, an bottom edge, and a pair of opposed side edges, and the front and the back panels coupled to one another along at least three of the four edges to form a pocket. The combined pillow and satchel may further include: a strap that extends across a length of the pocket from a first side edge of the pocket to a second side edge thereof to form a courier bag. The combined pillow and satchel may further include: a first strap that extends across a height of the pocket from proximate a top edge of the pocket to proximate a bottom edge thereof along a first side edge of the pocket; and a second strap that extends across a height of the pocket from proximate a top edge of the pocket to proximate a bottom edge thereof along a second side edge of the pocket, to form a backpack.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, identical reference numbers identify similar elements or acts. The sizes and relative positions of elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the shapes of various elements and angles are not drawn to scale, and some of these elements are arbitrarily enlarged and positioned to improve drawing legibility. Further, the particular shapes of the elements as drawn, are not intended to convey any information regarding the actual shape of the particular elements, and have been solely selected for ease of recognition in the drawings.

FIG. 1A is a front isometric view of a combined satchel and travel pillow having the form of a courier bag in an unfolded configuration, according to at least one illustrated implementation, including a pocket with a flap in a closed configuration.

FIG. 1B is a front isometric view of the combined satchel and travel pillow of FIG. 1A in an unfolded configuration, with the flap in an open configuration and a sealable packet removed from an interior of the pocket.

FIG. 1C is a rear isometric view of the combined satchel and travel pillow of FIG. 1A in an unfolded configuration.

FIG. 1D is a front isometric view of a combined satchel and travel pillow having the form of a courier bag in an unfolded configuration, according to at least one illustrated implementation, including hinges and a zipper that allow the combined satchel and travel pillow to be opened into a seating cushion with backrest.

FIG. 1E is a front isometric view of the combined satchel and travel pillow having the form of the courier bag of FIG. 1A in a folded configuration, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 2A is a front isometric view of a combined satchel and travel pillow having the form of a backpack, according to at least one illustrated implementation, including a pocket with a flap in a closed configuration.

FIG. 2B is a rear isometric view of the combined satchel and travel pillow of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is an isometric view of a foam cushion with a contoured surface and a material cover that forms at least one of a front or back panel of a combined satchel and travel pillow, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 3B is a side elevational view of the foam cushion of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is an isometric view of a foam cushion with a contoured surface that forms at least one of a front or back panel of a combined satchel and travel pillow, according to at least one illustrated implementation, the contoured surface to be received about a neck of a person when the cushion is folded about an axis.

FIG. 4A is an isometric view of a foam cushion with a textured surface that forms at least one of a front or back panel of a combined satchel and travel pillow, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 4B is a side elevational view of the foam cushion of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a gel cushion that forms at least one of a front or back panel of a combined satchel and travel pillow, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a cushion with at least one fold line formed therein, the cushion which forms at least one of a front or back panel of a combined satchel and travel pillow, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 7A is an isometric view of a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of an elastic loop and peg, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 7B is an isometric view of a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a two part snap, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 7C is an isometric view of a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a button and button hole, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 7D is an isometric view of a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a loop fastener and a hook fastener, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 7E is an isometric view of a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a pair of ties, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 7F is an isometric view of a pair of complementary magnets, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 7G is an isometric view of a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a zipper, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

FIG. 7H is an isometric view of a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a buckle, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, certain specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, certain structures associated with straps, fasteners, and handles have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the embodiments.

Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is as “including, but not limited to.”

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

The headings and Abstract of the Disclosure provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.

FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C show a combined satchel and travel pillow 100 having the form of a courier bag in an unfolded configuration, according to at least one illustrated implementation. In particular, FIG. 1A shows the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 from the front, with a cover or flap 102 thereof in a closed configuration or position, while FIG. 1B shows the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 from the front, with the flap 102 thereof in an open configuration or position. FIG. 1C shows the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 from the rear, with the flap 102 thereof in the closed configuration or position. FIG. 1E shows the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 having the form of a courier bag in a folded configuration to form a pillow or headrest, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

The combined satchel and travel pillow 100 may include a front panel 104 and a back panel 106. As discussed herein, the front and the back panels 104, 106, respectively, comprise one or more compressible cushions, for example foam cushions and, or gel cushions, to advantageously form a pillow. As also discussed herein, the front and the back panels 104, 106, respectively, may optionally include one or more layers of fabric that cover all or a portion of the compressible cushions.

The front panel 104 has a respective length L_f, width W_f and thickness T_f. The front panel 104 may, for example, have a rectangular profile, including a top edge 104a, a bottom edge 104b opposed across the width W_f from the top edge 104a, a first side edge 104c, and a second side edge 104d opposed across the length L_f from the first side edge 104c.

The back panel 106 has a respective length L_b, width W_b and thickness T_b. The back panel 106 may, for example, have a rectangular profile, including a top edge 106a, a bottom edge 106b opposed across the width W_b from the top edge 106a, a first side edge 106c, and a second side edge 106d opposed across the length L_b from the first side edge 106c.

The front and back panels 104, 106, respectively, are attached to each other about a portion of a periphery to form a pocket 108 (shown in broken line in FIG. 1C) with an interior or inner compartment 110a (shown in broken line in FIG. 1C) and with an opening 110b along the top edges 104a, 106a of the front and back panels 104, 106, respectively. For example, the side edges 104c, 104d of the front panel 104 may be attached to corresponding ones of the side edges 106c, 106d of the back panel 106, either permanently (e.g., sewn, fused, heat welded, RF welded, adhered via an adhesive, riveted) or detachable (e.g., zipper, snaps, hooked, hook and loop fastened, buttoned). Also for example, the bottom edge 104b of the front panel 104 may be attached to the bottom edge 106b of the back panel 106, either permanently (e.g., sewn, fused, heat welded, RF welded, adhered via an adhesive, riveted) or detachable (e.g., zipper, snaps, hooked, hook and loop fastened, buttoned). In at least one implementation, a first zipper 112a extends along right edges 104c, 106c and a second zipper 112b extends along left edges 104d, 106d to selectively detachably couple the front and back panels 104, 106, respectively, together. When unzipped the front and back panels 104, 106, respectively, can pivot with respect to one another about the bottom edges 104b, 106b, for example to take on a right angle or chair like configuration. Alternatively, the front and back panels 104, 106, respectively, may be formed from a single substrate, for example a single piece of foam cushion or gel cushion, with one or more fold-lines (Figure) delineating the front panel 104 from the back panel 106, for instance forming a bottom edge 104b, 106b of the pocket 108.

A sum of the uncompressed thickness T_f, T_b of the front and back panel 104, 106, respectively, is preferably equal to or greater than 1½ inches, and more preferably equal to or greater than 2½ inches, but should not be so thick as to render the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 unwieldly (e.g., sum equal to or less than approximately 6 inches).

Since the front and back panels 104, 106 are compressible, the dimensions of the interior or inner compartment 110a of the pocket 108 are variable, at least along a thickness. For example, the front and back panels 104, 106 may conform to items stowed in the pocket 108, thus the interior or inner compartment 110a may have a first dimension (e.g., first thickness) when empty and a second dimension (e.g., second thickness) when one or more items are inserted therein. In some implementations, there will be a defined space or gap between the interior, or opposed facing surfaces of the front and back panels 104, 106, even when empty. In other implementations, the interior, or opposed facing surfaces of the front and back panels 104, 106 with be in contact with one another, even when empty, and there will not be a defined space or gap between the interior, or opposed facing surfaces of the front and back panels 104, 106. In such an implementation, the front and back panels 104, 106 may be sufficiently resilient that they will retain items placed or stowed in the pocket 108 under compression (opposed forces applied by the front and back panels 104, 106). In such an implementation, it may be possible to omit any cover or flap, replying on the compression to retain items in the pocket 108.

The combined satchel and travel pillow 100 may include a sealable packet 114 (FIG. 1B). The sealable packet 114 has an interior 116 to removably receive personal items therein, for example a cellphone, smartphone, earbuds 118a, tablet computer, boarding pass, passport, other identification, magazine, book 118b, keys 118c, medication. The sealable packet 114 has outer dimensions sized and dimensioned to be removably received in the interior or inner compartment 110a of the pocket 108 via the opening. The sealable packet 114 is preferably retrievable from the interior 110a of the pocket 108 via the opening 110b, along with any contents 118a-118e in the sealable packet 114. The outer dimensions may preferably be sized to allow the sealable packet 114 with contents 118a-118e therein to be stowed in backseat stowage areas that are common on commercial airplanes. The sealable packet 114 includes at least one fastener that opens and closes the sealable packet 114. The fastener(s) extends a long a length of the sealable packet 114, typically along a top edge thereof. The fastener may, for example take the form of a zipper with teeth and a slider, or tongue and complementary groove 120a, 120b which allows the sealable packet 114 to be repeatedly opened and closed. The sealable packet 114 may be formed of a plastic, for instance a high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), or linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and may preferably be transparent to allow the contents 118a-118e to be easily examined without opening the sealable packet 114.

The pocket 108 of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 may include a closure to selectively limit or alternatively provide access to the interior or inner compartment of the pocket 108. For example, the closure may take the form of a flap 102 and appropriate fasteners 122. The flap 102 is moveable between a closed configuration or position (FIG. 1A) and an open configuration or position (FIG. 1B). In the closed configuration or position, the flap 102 overlies the opening 110b limiting or even preventing access to the interior 110a of the pocket 114 from an exterior 124 thereof. In the open configuration or position, the flap 102 is moved away from the opening 110b, providing access to the interior 110a of the pocket 114 from the exterior 124 thereof. The flap 102 may be a piece of fabric or other material, and may be a portion of fabric that extends from a piece of fabric which forms a portion of the back panel 106. The flap 102 may carry or have attached thereto one or more fasteners 122, with complementary fasteners 126 carried or attached to the front panel 104. Suitable fasteners 122, 126 can include any one or more of: zipper, hook and loop fastener, snaps, ties, buttons and button holes, or elastic loop and peg.

As best illustrated in FIG. 1E, the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 is foldable to form a pillow of a desired thickness and shape. For example, the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 may be folded over one or more horizontal axes (e.g., axis parallel with top edge, bottom edge, and/or length) 128a, 128b, 128c (three shown in FIG. 1A, collectively 128), for instance folded in half along a mid-line 128a, or in thirds, fourths, or more. Additionally, or alternatively, the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 may be folded over one or more vertical axes (e.g., axis parallel with side edges, and/or width or height) 130a, 130b, 130c (three shown in FIG. 1A, collectively 130), for instance folded in half along a mid-line 130a, or in thirds, fourths, or more.

The combined satchel and travel pillow 100 includes sets of fasteners to detachably secure the pocket 108 in one or more folded configurations. For example, fasteners 126 may be carried on an exterior surface 132 of the front panel 104. Additionally or alternatively, fasteners 134 may, for example, be carried on an exterior surface 136 of the back panel 106. Additionally or alternatively, fasteners 122 may, for example, be carried on an exterior surface 138 and, or an interior surface 140 of the cover or flap 102. Fasteners 122, 126, 134 are positioned and oriented to mate with complementary fasteners when the pocket 108 is folded into one or more defined configurations (e.g., folded in half, in thirds, or in fourths along a vertical axis or a horizontal axis). Thus, pairs of complementary fasteners 122, 126, 134 are aligned across one or more axes 128, 130, for example across one or more horizontal axes 128 and, or across one or more vertical axes 130. Pairs of complementary fasteners 122, 126, 134 are spaced equally apart from one another across the axes 128, 130. In this way, a fold along a given axis (e.g., horizontal axis 128 or vertical axis 130) will cause the fasteners 122, 126, 134 of at least one, or more, pairs of complementary fasteners to come together. The fasteners 122, 126, 134 are complementary in that one of the fasteners of a complementary pair securely detachable mates with the other one of the fasteners of the complementary pair.

For example, to secure the pocket 108 folded in half about a vertically extending mid-line 130a, a first fastener 126 carried on an exterior surface 132 of the front panel 104 along one edge (e.g., right edge) of the pocket 108 may detachably couple to a first complementary fastener 126 carried on the exterior surface 132 of the front panel 104 along another edge (e.g., left edge) of the pocket 108. Additionally or alternatively, to secure the pocket 108 folded in half about the vertically extending mid-line 130a, a second fastener 122 carried on an exterior surface 138 the flap 102 along one edge (e.g., right edge) of the pocket 108 may detachably couple to a second complementary fastener 122 carried on the exterior surface 138 the flap 102 along another edge (e.g., left edge) of the pocket 108.

Also for example, to secure the pocket 108 folded in half about a horizontal extending mid-line 128a, a first fastener 122 carried on an exterior surface 138 the flap 102 along one edge (e.g., right edge) of the pocket 108 may detachably couple to a first complementary fastener 126 carried on the exterior surface 132 the front panel 104 along the same edge (e.g., right edge) of the pocket 108. Additionally or alternatively, to secure the pocket 108 folded in half about the horizontally extending mid-line 128a, a second fastener 122 carried on the exterior surface 138 the flap 102 along another edge (e.g., left edge) of the pocket 108 may detachably couple to a second complementary fastener 126 carried on the exterior surface 132 the front panel 104 along the same other edge (e.g., left edge) of the pocket 108.

Also for example, to secure the pocket 108 folded in half about a vertically extending mid-line 130a, a first fastener 134 carried on an exterior surface 136 of the back panel 106 along one edge (e.g., right edge) of the pocket 108 may detachably couple to a first complementary fastener 134 carried on the exterior surface 136 of the back panel 106 along another edge (e.g., left edge) of the pocket 108. Additionally or alternatively, to secure the pocket 108 folded in half about the vertically extending mid-line 130a, a second fastener 134 carried on the exterior surface 136 the back panel 106 along one edge (e.g., right edge) of the pocket 108 may detachably couple to a second complementary fastener 134 carried on the exterior surface 136 the back panel 106 along another edge (e.g., left edge) of the pocket 108.

Also for example, to secure the pocket 108 folded in half about a horizontal extending mid-line 128a, a first fastener 134 carried on an exterior surface 136 the back panel 106 along one edge (e.g., right edge) of the pocket 108 may detachably couple to a first complementary fastener 134 carried on the exterior surface 136 the back panel 106 along the same edge (e.g., right edge) of the pocket 108. Additionally or alternatively, to secure the pocket 108 folded in half about the horizontally extending mid-line 128a, a second fastener 134 carried on the exterior surface 136 the back panel 106 along another edge (e.g., left edge) of the pocket 108 may detachably couple to a second complementary fastener 134 carried on the exterior surface 136 the back panel 106 along the same other edge (e.g., left edge) of the pocket 108.

After being folded along a vertically extending axis 130, the pocket 108 may be further folded along a horizontally extending axis 128. After being folded along a horizontally extending axis 128, the pocket 108 may be further folded along a vertically extending axis 130. For example, fasteners 126 on the exterior surface 132 of the front panel 104 and, or, fasteners 122 on the exterior surface 138 of the flap 102 may be used to secure the pocket 108 after being folded along a first axis, while fasteners 134 on the exterior surface 136 of the back panel 106 may be used to secure the pocket 108 after being folded along a second axis, the second axis for instance perpendicular to the first axis. Also for example, fasteners 134 on the exterior surface 136 of the back panel 106 may be used to secure the pocket 108 after being folded along a first axis, while fasteners 126 on the exterior surface 132 of the front panel 104 and, or, fasteners 122 on the exterior surface of the flap 102 may be used to secure the pocket 108 after being folded along a second axis, the second axis for instance perpendicular to the first axis.

Folding along one or more vertical axes 130 may create a pillow having a total thickness greater than the thickness of a single cushion. Folding along one or more horizontal axes 128 may create a lumbar support having a total thickness greater than the thickness of a single cushion. Folding along one or more vertical axes 130 and one or more horizontal axes 128 may create a pillow having a total thickness greater than the thickness of a single cushion.

Fasteners 122 on an interior surface 140 of the flap 102 may be used to secure the flap 102 to complementary fasteners 126 on the front panel 104 in a closed configuration (FIG. 1A). Fasteners 122 on an exterior surface 138 of the flap 102 may be used to secure the flap 102 to complementary fasteners 134 on the rear panel 106 in an open configuration (FIG. 1B).

The combined satchel and travel pillow 100 may optionally include one or more straps. For example, a strap 142 may extend across a length of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100, to form a courier bag style combined satchel and travel pillow 100. Both ends of the strap 142 may be coupled to the pocket 108 proximate a top thereof at opposed side edges. Alternatively, one end of the strap 142 may be coupled proximate a top of the pocket along one side edge, while the other end of the strap 142 is coupled to the pocket 108 proximate a bottom thereof along the other side edge, the strap 142 extending diagonally across the pocket, similar to a bandolier. The strap(s) 142 may be mounted via hardware, for instance swivel hooks, or snaps or clips 144 (only one called out for clarity of illustration).

FIG. 1D shows a combined satchel and travel pillow 100 having the form of a courier bag, according to at least one illustrated implementation, including hinges 150a, 150b and a zipper 152 that allow the combined satchel and travel pillow to be opened into a seating cushion with backrest or seat back.

Notably, the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 may omit a flap or cover. A number of hinges 150a, 150b (two shown, collectively 150) may extend across the top edge, allowing the front and back panels 104, 106 to pivot with respect to one another. The hinges 150a, 150b may advantageously be selectively fastenable to one, the other, or to both the front and back panels 104, 106, allowing access to an interior of combined satchel and travel pillow 100, and when secured assisting to retain objects in the interior of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100.

The zipper 152 may extend along one or more edges of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100. For example, the zipper 152 can extend along three edges, for instance two side edges and a bottom edge, of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100. When zipped, the zipper 152 retains the front and back panels 104, 106 to one another, in an at least approximately parallel orientation with major surfaces adjacent one another. When unzipped, the front and back panels 104, 106 may pivot away from one another, for example such that the major faces of the front and back panels 104, 106 are at non-zero (e.g., a right angle) to one another, thus forming a seat cushion and seat back, joined via the hinges 150. Some implementations can employ other forms of fasteners, in place of the zipper 152.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show a combined satchel and travel pillow 200 having the form of a backpack, according to at least one illustrated implementation. In particular, FIG. 2A shows the combined satchel and travel pillow 200 from the front, with a flap 102 thereof in a closed configuration or position, while FIG. 1B shows the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 from the rear, with the flap 102 thereof in an open configuration or position.

The combined satchel and travel pillow 200 is similar to the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C), and similar parts are identified with the same reference numbers. Only the significant differences are discussed below.

The combined satchel and travel pillow 200 may optionally include one or more straps. For example, a pair of straps 142a, 142b may extend along a length of the combined satchel and travel pillow 200, from proximate a top thereof to proximate a bottom thereof, to form a backpack style combined satchel and travel pillow 200.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show a foam cushion 300 with a contoured surface 302 and a material cover 304 that forms at least one of a front or back panel 104, 106 (FIGS. 1A-1B, 2A, 2B) of a combined satchel and travel pillow 100, 200, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

The foam cushion 300 can have any of a variety of shapes and dimensions, although is preferably sufficiently compact to allow easy transit. The foam cushion 300 can have one or more contoured surfaces 302, for example with an arcuate profile, which may more readily accommodate various portions of the human body.

The foam cushion 300 can be comprised of any of a variety of materials, for example: closed cell foam, open cell foam or a combination of closed and open cell foams, for instance high density or low density visco-elastic foams (e.g., polyurethane foam), natural latex, or polyester. The material should be selected for user comfort, resistance to dirt or oils, ease of cleaning, and compressibility.

Optionally, one or more layers of fabric or other material 304 can overlie a portion of the foam cushion 300. The fabric or other material 304 may be attached to the foam cushion 300, for instance via an adhesive, heat welding or RF welding. In some instances, a portion of the fabric or other material 304 may include an extension 304a that extends beyond the foam cushion 300, for example to form the flap 102.

While the front and back panels 104, 106 are generally illustrated as being a single foam cushion that forms both, or respective foam cushions that form each, in some implementations the front and, or back panels 104, 106 may each comprise a respective sleeve of fabric or other material, into which the foam cushion 300 is removably received. This may allow different shape foam cushions 300 to be used to accommodate a user's specific needs at any given time, or replacement of soiled foam cushions 300.

FIG. 3C shows a foam cushion 310 with a pair of opposed contoured surface 312a, 312b (collectively 312), the foam cushion 310 which forms at least one of a front or back panel 104, 106 (FIGS. 1A-1B, 2A, 2B) of a combined satchel and travel pillow 100, 200, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

The foam cushion 310 may include a pair of opposed major faces 314 (only one visible in FIG. 3C) opposed from one another across a thickness of the foam cushion 310. The foam cushion 310 includes a first pair of contoured surfaces 312a, 312b, opposed to one another across a width or length of the foam cushion 310. The first pair of contoured surfaces 312a, 312b form a first pair of sides or peripheral edges of the foam cushion 310. The foam cushion 310 may include a second pair of sides or peripheral edges 316a, 316b. Each of the contoured surfaces 312a, 312b has a respective arcuate opening (e.g., portion of circle, portion of ellipse) 318a, 318b (collectively 318) formed therein. The openings 318 can be formed, for example, via molding or via subsequent removable of material. The openings 318 are opposed to one another across an axis or fold line 320. When folded together across the axis or fold line 320, for example as shown by double headed arrow 322, the openings 318 are aligned with one another, forming a U-shaped profile with a recess to be received about a neck of a person to rest the curvature of the neck and shoulders immediately behind the head of the person.

The foam cushion 310 can have any of a variety of shapes and dimensions, although is preferably sufficiently compact to allow easy transit. The foam cushion 310 can have one or more contoured surfaces 312, for example with an arcuate profile, which may more readily accommodate various portions of the human body.

The foam cushion 310 can be comprised of any of a variety of materials, for example: closed cell foam, open cell foam or a combination of closed and open cell foams, for instance high density or low density visco-elastic foams (e.g., polyurethane foam), natural latex, or polyester. The material should be selected for user comfort, resistance to dirt or oils, ease of cleaning, and compressibility.

Optionally, one or more layers of fabric or other material (not shown in FIG. 3C) can overlie a portion of the foam cushion 310. The fabric or other material may be attached to the foam cushion 310, for instance via an adhesive, heat welding or RF welding. In some instances, a portion of the fabric or other material may include an extension (not shown in FIG. 3C) that extends beyond the foam cushion 310, for example to form the flap 102.

While the front and back panels 104, 106 are generally illustrated as being a single foam cushion that forms both, or respective foam cushions that form each, in some implementations the front and, or back panels 104, 106 may each comprise a respective sleeve of fabric or other material, into which the foam cushion 310 is removably received. This may allow different shape foam cushions 310 to be used to accommodate a user's specific needs at any given time, or replacement of soiled foam cushions 310.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show a foam cushion 400 with a textured surface 402 that forms at least one of a front or back panel 104, 106 (FIGS. 1A-1B, 2A, 2B) of a combined satchel and travel pillow 100, 200, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

The foam cushion 400 can have any of a variety of shapes and dimensions, although is preferably sufficiently compact to allow easy transit. The foam cushion 400 can have one or more textured surfaces 402, for example including ridges 402a, valleys 402b, or fingers 402c (only one of each called out in FIGS. 4A and 4B for clarity) which may be more comfortable to a user than a flat, or even a contoured foam cushion 300.

The foam cushion 400 can be comprised of any of a variety of materials, for example: closed cell foam, open cell foam or a combination of closed and open cell foams, for instance high density or low density visco-elastic foams (e.g., polyurethane foam), natural latex, or polyester. The material should be selected for user comfort, resistance to dirt or oils, ease of cleaning, and compressibility.

Optionally, one or more layers of fabric or other material (not shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B) can overlie a portion of the foam cushion. The fabric or other material may be attached to the foam cushion, for instance via an adhesive, heat welding or RF welding. In some instances, a portion of the fabric or other material may extend beyond the foam cushion, for example to form the flap 102, for example as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

While the front and back panels 104, 106 are generally illustrated as being a single foam cushion that forms both, or respective foam cushions that form each, in some implementations the front and, or back panels 104, 106 may each comprise a respective sleeve of fabric or other material, into which the foam cushion 400 is removably received. This may allow different shape foam cushions 400 to be used to accommodate a user's specific needs at any given time, or replacement of soiled foam cushions 400.

FIG. 5 shows a gel cushion 500 that forms at least one of a front or back panel 104, 106 (FIGS. 1A-1B, 2A, 2B) of a combined satchel and travel pillow 100, 200, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

The gel cushion 500 can have any of a variety of shapes and dimensions, although is preferably sufficiently compact to allow easy transit. The gel cushion 500 can have one or more textured surfaces (not shown in FIG. 5), for example including ridges, valleys, or fingers similar to those of FIGS. 4A and 4B which may be more comfortable to a user than a flat, or even a contoured surface (not shown in FIG. 5) similar to those of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

The gel cushion 500 can be comprised of any of a variety of materials, for example: a gel made from silicone or polyurethane materials. The gel is neither a solid nor a liquid. The gel can provide a cooling effect, and provide enhanced pressure relief as compared to some other materials.

Optionally, one or more layers of fabric or other material (not shown in FIG. 5) can overlie a portion of the gel cushion 500. The fabric or other material may be attached to the gel cushion 500, for instance via an adhesive, heat welding or RF welding. In some instances, a portion of the fabric or other material (not shown in FIG. 5) may extend beyond the gel cushion 500, for example to form the flap 102, for example as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

While the front and back panels 104, 106 (FIGS. 1A-1C, 2A, 2B) are generally illustrated as being a single gel cushion or respective gel cushions, in some implementations the front and, or back panels 104, 106 may each comprise a respective sleeve of fabric or other material into which the gel cushion 500 is removably received. This may allow different shape gel cushions 500 to be used to accommodate a user's specific needs at any given time, or replacement of soiled gel cushions 500.

FIG. 6 show a compressible resilient cushion 600 with at least one fold line 602 formed therein, the cushion 600 which forms at least one of a front or back panel 104, 106 (FIGS. 1A-1B, 2A, 2B) of a combined satchel and travel pillow 100, 200, according to at least one illustrated implementation. Thus, a single cushion 600 can be used to form both the front and the back panels, advantageously reducing the total number of parts. The fold line 602 may be permanent, or may be formed under tension, for example tension applied via one or more connectors or fasteners and, or via one or more layers of fabric or other material substrate. While only one fold line 602 is illustrated, the cushion 600 may include two or more fold lines. For instance, two fold lines (not shown in FIG. 6) may be formed spaced slightly on either side of a mid-line (not shown in FIG. 6) to form the front and back panels, as well as a bottom panel that extends therebetween.

FIG. 7A shows a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of an elastic loop 702a and peg 704a, according to at least one illustrated implementation. The peg 704a may have a major dimension, for example a length. The elastic loop 702a may be sized to have an unexpanded opening slightly smaller than the major dimension of the peg 704a. The elastic loop 702a and peg 704a can be attached to the front panel, the back panel and/or the flap 102 of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C) 200 (FIGS. 2A, 2B). The pairs of elastic loops 702a and pegs 704a are positioned to physically couple to one another when folded across one or more axes or fold-lines, for example one or more horizontal axes and, or, vertical axes.

FIG. 7B shows a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a two part snap 706, according to at least one illustrated implementation. The two part snap may include a male portion 708a and a female portion 708b, the female portion 708b sized and dimensioned to removable securely receive the male portion 708a. The male portion 708a and female portion 708b can be attached to the front panel, the back panel and/or the flap 102 of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C) 200 (FIGS. 2A, 2B). The pairs of male portion 708a and female portion 708b are positioned to physically couple to one another when folded across one or more axes or fold-lines, for example one or more horizontal axes and, or, vertical axes.

FIG. 7C shows a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a button 710a and button hole 710b, according to at least one illustrated implementation. The button 710a may have a major dimension, for example a radius or diameter. The button hole 710b may be sized to have an unexpanded opening slightly smaller than the major dimension of the button 710a. The button 710a and button hole 710b can be attached to the front panel, the back panel and/or the flap 102 of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C) 200 (FIGS. 2A, 2B). The pairs of button 710a and button hole 710b are positioned to physically couple to one another when folded across one or more axes or fold-lines, for example one or more horizontal axes and, or, vertical axes.

FIG. 7D shows a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a loop fastener 712a and a hook fastener 712b (e.g., hook and loop fastener available under the trademark VELCRO®), according to at least one illustrated implementation. The loop fastener 712a can include a substrate with a plurality of fiber loops extending therefrom. The hook fastener 712b can include a substrate with a plurality of hook shaped fiber members extending therefrom. The loop fasteners 712a and hook fasteners 712b can be attached to the front panel, the back panel and/or the flap 102 of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C) 200 (FIGS. 2A, 2B). The pairs of loop fasteners 712a and hook fasteners 712b are positioned to physically couple to one another when folded across one or more axes or fold-lines, for example one or more horizontal axes and, or, vertical axes.

FIG. 7E shows a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a pair of ties 714a, 714b, according to at least one illustrated implementation. The ties 714a, 714b may take the form of strips of fabric, strings or laces, which can be manually tied using a bow knot or other knots. The pair of ties 714a, 714b can be attached to the front panel, the back panel and/or the flap 102 of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C) 200 (FIGS. 2A, 2B). The pair of ties 714a, 714b are positioned to physically couple to one another when folded across one or more axes or fold-lines, for example one or more horizontal axes and, or, vertical axes.

FIG. 7F is an isometric view of a pair of complementary magnets 716a, 716b, according to at least one illustrated implementation. The magnets 716a, 716b may each have a respective polarity (e.g., North, South), with the magnets of each complementary pair having opposite polarities. The magnets 716a, 716b can be attached to the front panel, the back panel and/or the flap 102 of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C) 200 (FIGS. 2A, 2B). The complementary pair of magnets 716a, 716b are positioned to physically couple to one another when folded across one or more axes or fold-lines, for example one or more horizontal axes and, or, vertical axes.

FIG. 7G shows a pair of complementary fasteners in the form of a zipper 718 having two arrays of interlocking teeth 720a, 720b and a slider 722, according to at least one illustrated implementation. Movement of the slider 722 causes the arrays of teeth 720a, 720b to alternatively locking engage and disengage. The arrays of teeth 720a, 720b can be attached to the front panel, the back panel and/or the flap 102 of the combined satchel and travel pillow 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C) 200 (FIGS. 2A, 2B). The complementary arrays of teeth 720a, 720b are positioned to physically couple to one another when folded across one or more axes or fold-lines, for example one or more horizontal axes and, or, vertical axes.

FIG. 7H shows a pair of complementary fasteners 724a, 724b in the form of a buckle 724, according to at least one illustrated implementation.

A first complementary fastener 724a has a slot 726a at a first end 728a of the first complementary fastener 724a and a pair of opposed prongs 730a, 730b at a second end 732a of the first complementary fastener 724a. The slot 726a of the first complementary fastener 724a is sized to receive a flexible piece of material (e.g., webbing) 734a which extends from a combined satchel and travel pillow, for example doubled back over a bar to secure the first complementary fastener 724a to the flexible piece of material 734a. The position of the first complementary fastener 724a on the flexible piece of material 734a may be selectively adjustable by sliding the first complementary fastener 724a along the flexible piece of material 734a.

The second complementary fastener 724b has a slot 726b at a first end 728b of the second complementary fastener 724b, an opening 736 at a second end 732b of the second complementary fastener 724b, and a pair of opposed stops 738a, 738b located between the first and the second ends 728b, 732b of the second complementary fastener 724b. The slot 736 of the second complementary fastener 724b is sized to receive a flexible piece of material (e.g., webbing) 734b which extends from a combined satchel and travel pillow, for example doubled back over a bar and sewn together to secure the second complementary fastener 724b to the flexible piece of material 734b.

The opposed prongs 730a, 730b of the first complementary fasteners 724a are resilient, and return to a spaced apart relation after being deformed toward one another, deformed for example when received via the opening 736 of the second complementary fastener 724b. When in the spaced apart relation the prongs physically engage respective ones of the pair of opposed stops 738a, 738b of the second complementary fastener 724b to releasably secure the first complementary fastener 724a to the complementary fastener 724b.

The above description of illustrated examples, implementations, and embodiments, including what is described in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. Although specific examples are described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as will be recognized by those skilled in the relevant art.

Many of the methods described herein can be performed with variations. For example, many of the methods may include additional acts, omit some acts, and/or perform acts in a different order than as illustrated or described.

The various examples, implementations, and embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Aspects of the embodiments can be modified, if necessary, to employ other configurations, materials, and styles (e.g., purse or pocketbook), and concepts in various patents, applications, and publications to provide yet further embodiments. While typically illustrated and described as including a cover or flap, various implementations may omit cover or flap. Any one or more of the implementation can, for example, include a sleeve (e.g., fabric, cloth, SPANDEX®), which can be used to detachably secure the combined satchel and travel pillow 100, 200 to a headrest or arm rest of a seat, for example a seat on an airplane, train, bus or other vehicle. Further, the combined satchel and travel pillow may include any one or a combination of any two or more contoured or textured surfaces.

U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/529,952, filed Jul. 5, 2017, to which the present application claims priority, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

These and other changes can be made to the examples, implementations, and embodiments in light of the above-detailed description. In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should be construed to include all possible embodiments along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, the claims are not limited by the disclosure.

Claims

1. A combined pillow and satchel, comprising:

a front panel having a length, a width, and an uncompressed thickness;

a back panel having a length, a width, and an uncompressed thickness, the back panel coupled to the front panel to form a pocket having an interior cavity with an opening proximate a top thereof that provides access into the interior cavity from an exterior thereof, the uncompressed thicknesses of the front and the back panels in sum being at least one and one half (1½) inches thick;

a closure that is positioned and manually operable to selectively open and close the opening that provides access into the interior cavity from the exterior thereof; and

at least a first set of fasteners that are positioned and manually operable to selectively secure the pocket in a first folded configuration, when folded about an axis that extends parallel to the lengths of the front and the back panels or the widths of the front and the back panels.

2. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1 wherein the pocket is closed along a bottom thereof and closed along a pair of opposed sides thereof, the sides opposed to one another across the lengths of the front and back panels and the bottom opposed to the top across the widths of the front and the back panels.

3. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1 wherein the front and the back panel comprises at least one of a foam cushion or a gel cushion with a fold-line extending therebetween.

4. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 3 wherein the front and the back panel comprises a cover piece of material that at least partially covers the at least one of the foam or the gel cushions.

5. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 3 wherein the at least one of the foam or the gel cushions includes at least one contoured surface having a contour in when uncompressed.

6. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 3 wherein the at least one of the foam or the gel cushions includes at least one textured surface having a plurality of discontinuities when uncompressed.

7. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1 wherein the front and the back panel each comprises respective ones of at least one of a foam cushion or a gel cushion.

8. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 7 wherein the front and the back panel each comprises a respective cover piece of material that at least partially covers the at least one of the foam or the gel cushions.

9. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1 wherein the first folded configuration is folded along vertical axis, and the first set of fasteners include at least one pair of complementary fasteners, one fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a first edge that extends between the top and a bottom of the pocket and another fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a second edge that extends between the top and the bottom of the pocket.

10. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 9, further comprising:

at least a second set of fasteners that are positioned and manually operable to selectively secure the pocket in a second folded configuration, the second folded configuration is folded along horizontal axis, and the second set of fasteners include at least one pair of complementary fasteners, one fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a top edge that extends between the first and the second side edges of the pocket and another fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a bottom edge that extends between the first and the second side edges of the pocket.

11. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 10 wherein the complementary fasteners of the first and the second sets of fasteners comprises at least one of a zipper, hook and loop fastener, snaps, ties, buttons and button holes, or elastic loop and peg.

12. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1 wherein the first folded configuration is folded along horizontal axis, and the first set of fasteners include at least one pair of complementary fasteners, one fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a top edge that extends between a first side edge and a second side edge of the pocket and another fastener of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners proximate a bottom edge that extends between the first and the second side edges of the pocket.

13. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 12 wherein the fasteners of the first set of fasteners comprises at least one of a zipper, hook and loop fastener, snaps, ties, buttons and button holes, or elastic loop and peg.

14. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1, comprising:

a sealable packet, the sealable packet having an interior to removably receive personal items therein, the sealable packet sized and dimensioned to be removably received in the interior of the pocket via the opening along with any contents of the sealable packet.

15. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 14 wherein the sealable packet is transparent and includes one of a zipper or a tongue and complementary groove that repeatedly opens and closes the sealable packet.

16. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1 wherein the closure comprises a flap with at least one pair of complementary fasteners, a first one of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners and a second one of the at least one pair of complementary fasteners to detachably couple to one another.

17. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 16 wherein the at least one pair of complementary fasteners comprises at least one of a zipper, hook and loop fastener, snaps, ties, buttons and button holes.

18. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1 wherein the front panel has four edges including a top edge, an bottom edge, and a pair of opposed side edges, the back panel has four edges including a top edge, an bottom edge, and a pair of opposed side edges, and the front and the back panels coupled to one another along at least three of the four edges to form a pocket.

19. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1, further comprising:

a strap that extends across a length of the pocket from a first side edge of the pocket to a second side edge thereof to form a courier bag.

20. The combined pillow and satchel of claim 1, further comprising:

a first strap that extends across a height of the pocket from proximate a top edge of the pocket to proximate a bottom edge thereof along a first side edge of the pocket; and

a second strap that extends across a height of the pocket from proximate a top edge of the pocket to proximate a bottom edge thereof along a second side edge of the pocket, to form a backpack.