Anti-Theft Carrying Straps
In various embodiments, a carrying bag is disclosed which includes a one or more security panel assemblies comprising a first flexible material layer and a polymeric fiber matrix, such as a polymer fiber-based cut-resistant fabric, matrix or mesh. Various carrying straps are disclosed which include a first flexible fabric or webbing; and a second flexible fabric or webbing comprising a polymeric fiber matrix. Additional polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns may be included in the security panel assemblies and straps, such as cut-resistant monofilament and multifilament fibers comprised of a polyethylene such as ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE), or High Performance Polyethylene (HPPE), for example.
This application is: a continuation of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/508,235, filed Jul. 10, 2019, inventors Donald E. Godshaw et al., titled “Anti-Theft Carrying Straps”; a continuation of and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/508,229, filed Jul. 10, 2019, inventors Donald E. Godshaw et al., titled “Anti-Theft Carrying Bags and Security Panel Assemblies”; and a continuation of and claims priority to and the benefit of International PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2019/041265, filed Jul. 10, 2019, inventors Donald E. Godshaw et al., titled “Anti-Theft Carrying Bags, Security Panel Assemblies and Carrying Straps”, which are all nonprovisionals of and claim priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/695,994, filed Jul. 10, 2018, inventors Donald E. Godshaw et al., titled “Anti-Theft Carrying Bags and Carrying Straps”, which are commonly assigned herewith, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference with the same full force and effect as if set forth in their entireties herein, and with priority claimed for all commonly disclosed subject matter. International PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2019/041265 also claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/508,235 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/508,229.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThis invention relates to various types of carrying bags and, more particularly, to a cut or slash-resistant carrying bag with a cut or slash-resistant security panel for carrying bags such as purses, backpacks, messenger bags, briefcases, luggage, and so on, and to cut or slash-resistant carrying straps which may be used with such carrying bags.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONHandbags, travel bags, purses, backpacks, messenger bags, briefcases, waist packs, draw-string sacks, suitcases, luggage and other types of carrying bags (individually and collectively referred to as “bag(s)” or “carrying bag(s)”) are often made from flexible materials such as cloth, canvas, nylon, ballistic nylon, leather and similar materials. Such bags typically include one or more interior chambers through which access may be gained by an opening in the top or side of the bag. Such bags also often include a carry (or carrying) strap which is typically connected between opposite sides of the bag. Additionally, such bags often also include multiple side pockets with top and/or side access openings.
On occasion, such bags are subject to theft or attempted theft. For example, often a bag may be hung or supported by the bag carrying (or carry) strap on a chair or a hook or the like. In such circumstances, a thief may “snatch” the bag by grabbing the carrying strap and departing. Another scheme that has been used by thieves is to use a sharp instrument, such as a knife or box cutter, to cut through the soft-sided material comprising the bag, and thereby gain access to the contents which may be lifted through the cut opening in the bag, or which may fall out from the cut opening of the bag when a lower part of the bag has been slashed. Yet another scheme that has been used by thieves includes various types of pickpocketing, such as by unzipping a zipper in either a stealth manner or while the bag's owner is distracted, and thereby gaining access to the bag's contents while undetected by the bag's owner.
Of additional concern are situations in which a bag may be left unattended or in which the bag's owner may be inattentive or distracted, for any period of time, including brief periods of time. For example, people at a beach may carry their belongings in a purse, a beach bag, a backpack, and so on, and desire to leave the carrying bag on the beach while they swim, wade, splash or surf in the water. In such circumstances, a person's attention is often on their activities, and the carrying bag is not being observed at all or most times, and such an unattended carrying bag is a prime target for potential theft. In other circumstances, the owner of the bag may be inattentive or distracted, such as intentionally distracted by groups or teams of thieves or pickpockets. While the bag is unattended or the attention of the owner is diverted, moreover, a potential thief typically has considerably more time in which to attempt to gain access to the contents of the bag, especially compared with the much more rapidly occurring grabbing, pickpocketing or slashing of a carrying bag.
Accordingly, a need remains for comparatively cut or slash-resistant carrying bags, which are relatively easy and comparatively inexpensive to assemble, which have comparatively thin, non-bulky configurations, and which are light and flexible. A need also remains for additional anti-theft features for carrying straps and openings of bags, to prevent cutting through any strap attached to the bag while nonetheless providing a comfortable and wearable strap, and further to prevent typical “snatching” of bags, to eliminate or diminish the potential for undetected access to the contents of the bag, while nonetheless maintaining a comparatively flexible and attractive style of the bag for the consumer.
SUMMARYThe representative embodiments provide comparatively cut or slash-resistant carrying bags, which are relatively easy and comparatively inexpensive to assemble, which have comparatively thin, non-bulky configurations, and which are light and flexible. The representative embodiments provide comparatively cut or slash-resistant carrying straps, which are also relatively easy and comparatively inexpensive to assemble, which are flexible and comfortable, such as for wearing by a consumer without the strap or parts of the strap digging in to the consumer's shoulder. Representative embodiments include additional anti-theft features for carrying straps and bags, to prevent cutting through any significant panels of the bag (including at or near the seams of panels forming the bag), to prevent cutting through any strap attached to the bag, to prevent typical “snatching” of bags, and further to provide readily and easily usable locking capabilities for straps, including while unattended, to eliminate or diminish the potential for undetected access to the contents of the bag, while nonetheless maintaining a comparatively flexible and attractive style of the bag for the consumer.
In a representative embodiment, a security panel assembly comprises: a first flexible material layer having a first side and a plurality of edges; and a polymeric fiber matrix arranged on the first side of the first flexible material layer, the polymeric fiber matrix comprising at least one polymeric fiber arranged as a plurality of polymeric fiber intersections or crossings, each fiber intersection or crossing comprising at least two sections of the at least one polymeric fiber abutting each other, the at least one polymeric fiber comprising at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn.
Such a representative security panel assembly comprise may further comprise: a second flexible material layer arranged adjacent to the polymeric fiber matrix and coupled to the first side of the first flexible material layer. In such an embodiment the second flexible material layer is coupled to the first flexible material layer with a plurality of stitches, or with an adhesive, or with both a plurality of stitches and an adhesive.
In a representative embodiment, the security panel assembly has a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 500 grams applied over 20 mm. In another representative embodiment, the security panel assembly has a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 3,000 grams applied over 20 mm.
In a representative embodiment, one or more portions of the polymeric fiber matrix are not coupled to the first flexible material layer and extend beyond one or more the edges of the first flexible material layer or outside the periphery or circumference of the first flexible material layer.
In various embodiments, the at least one polymeric fiber is a multifilament fiber, cable, thread or yarn. For example, the multifilament fiber, cable, thread or yarn may comprise at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn and either or both at least one carbon fiber or at least one metallic wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn. Also for example, the multifilament fiber, cable, thread or yarn may comprise a combination of at least one first type of cut-resistant, polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn and at least one second, different type of polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn.
Also for example, the at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn may comprise at least one material selected from the group consisting of: aramid; liquid crystal polymer; polyethylene; ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (“UHMWPE”) having a molecular mass between 3.5 and 7.5 million Daltons; high-modulus polyethylene (“HMPE”); High Performance Polyethylene (“HPPE”); glass; nylon; polyester; and combinations thereof.
In another representative embodiment, the polymeric fiber matrix is comprised of a plurality of knitted or woven fibers, filaments, cables, threads, or yarns to form the plurality of fiber intersections or crossings.
In various embodiments, the polymeric fiber matrix has an area smaller than first flexible material layer to provide at least one tab or peripheral seam region of the first flexible material layer. In another representative embodiment, the polymeric fiber matrix is coupled to a plurality of strips of first flexible material layers, the plurality, of strips of first flexible material layers extending beyond one or more edges of the polymeric fiber matrix to form a plurality of tabs or seam regions.
In a representative embodiment, the polymeric fiber matrix comprises a mesh or netting having a plurality of bonded or coupled polymeric fiber intersections or crossings. In another representative embodiment, the polymeric fiber matrix comprises a plurality of polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns arranged in a crossing or quilting pattern on the first side of the first flexible material layer and extending on a second side of the first flexible material layer or an intervening flexible material layer.
In a representative embodiment, the polymeric fiber matrix is coupled to the first flexible material layer with a plurality of stitches, or with an adhesive, or with both a plurality of stitches and an adhesive.
In a representative embodiment, a carrying bag comprises: an exterior bag having at least one opening for access to an interior of the exterior bag; and a plurality of security panel assemblies arranged within the interior or coupled to the exterior bag, each security panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies comprising a polymeric fiber matrix, wherein a first security panel assembly and a second secutity panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies are coupled to each other through at least one seam comprising one or more stitches through each of the respective polymeric fiber matrices.
In a representative embodiment, each security panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies has a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 500 grams applied over 20 mm. In another representative embodiment, each secutity panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies has a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 3,000 grams applied over 20 mm.
In a representative embodiment, each security panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies further comprises: a first flexible material layer having a first side and a plurality of edges; wherein the polymeric fiber matrix is arranged on the first side of the first flexible material layer, the polymeric fiber matrix comprising at least one polymeric fiber arranged as a plurality of polymeric fiber intersections or crossings, each fiber intersection or crossing comprising at least two sections of the at least one polymeric fiber abutting each other, the at least one polymeric fiber comprising at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn.
In another representative embodiment, each security panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies further comprises: a second flexible material layer arranged adjacent to the polymeric fiber matrix and coupled to the first side of the first flexible material layer. In various embodiments, the second flexible material layer is coupled to the first flexible material layer with a plurality of stitches, or with an adhesive, or with both a plurality of stitches and an adhesive.
In a representative embodiment, at least one polymeric fiber matrix of at least one security panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies is comprised of a plurality of knitted or woven fibers, filaments, cables, threads, or yarns to form the plurality of fiber intersections or crossings. In a representative embodiment the polymeric fiber matrix has an area smaller than first flexible material layer to provide at least one tab or peripheral seam region of the first flexible material layer.
In a representative embodiment, the carrying bag may further comprise: a carrying strap having a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 3,000 grams applied over 20 mm laterally across the carrying strap, the carrying strap comprising: a first flexible fabric or webbing; and a second flexible fabric or webbing coupled to the first flexible fabric or webbing, the second flexible fabric or webbing comprising a second polymeric fiber matrix.
In another representative embodiment, the carrying bag may comprise an exterior bag having at least one opening for access to an interior of the exterior bag and having a plurality of panels; a plurality of security panel assemblies arranged within the interior or coupled to the exterior bag, each security panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies coupled to a panel of the plurality of panels and comprising a polymeric fiber matrix comprising at least one polymeric fiber arranged as a plurality of polymeric fiber intersections or crossings, wherein a first panel coupled to a first security panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies and a second panel coupled to a second security panel assembly of the plurality of security panel assemblies are coupled to each other through at least one seam comprising one or more stitches through each of the respective polymeric fiber matrices.
In a representative embodiment, a carrying strap comprises: a first flexible fabric or webbing; and a second flexible fabric or webbing coupled to the first flexible fabric or webbing, the second flexible fabric or webbing comprising a polymeric fiber matrix, the polymeric fiber matrix comprising at least one polymeric fiber arranged as a plurality of polymeric fiber intersections or crossings, each fiber intersection or crossing comprising at least two sections of the at least one polymeric fiber abutting each other, the at least one polymeric fiber comprising at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yam.
In a representative embodiment, the at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn is cut-resistant such that the carrying strap has a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 500 grams applied over 20 mm laterally across the carrying strap. In another representative embodiment, the carrying strap has a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 3,000 grams applied over 20 mm laterally across the carrying strap.
In a representative embodiment, the second flexible fabric or webbing may further comprise: a first flexible material layer having a first side and a plurality of edges, the polymeric fiber matrix arranged on the first side of the first flexible material layer; and a second flexible material layer arranged adjacent to the polymeric fiber matrix and coupled to the first side of the first flexible material layer with a plurality of stitches, or with an adhesive, or with both a plurality of stitches and an adhesive, to form a security panel assembly.
In a representative embodiment, the at least one polymeric fiber is a multifilament fiber, cable, thread or yarn. In various embodiments, the multifilament fiber, cable, thread or yarn comprises at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn and either or both at least one carbon fiber or at least one metallic wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn. in a representative embodiment, the at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of: aramid; liquid crystal polymer; polyethylene; ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (“UHMWPE”) having a molecular mass between 3.5 and 7.5 million Daltons; high-modulus polyethylene (“HMPE”); High Performance Polyethylene (“HPPE”); glass; nylon; polyester; and combinations thereof
In various embodiments, the polymeric fiber matrix is comprised of a plurality of knitted or woven fibers, filaments, cables, threads, or yarns to form the second flexible fabric or webbing. In various embodiments, the polymeric fiber matrix comprises a mesh or netting having a plurality of bonded or coupled polymeric fiber intersections or crossings. in various embodiments, the polymeric fiber matrix comprises a plurality of polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns arranged in a crossing or quilting pattern on a first side of a first flexible material layer and extending on a second side of the first flexible material layer or an intervening flexible material layer, In various embodiments, the at least one polymeric fiber is a monofilament fiber, cable, or thread.
In a representative embodiment, the second flexible fabric or webbing is coupled to the first flexible fabric or webbing with a plurality of stitches, or with an adhesive, or with both a plurality of stitches and an adhesive.
In a representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing is tubular and further comprises a lumen, and wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the lumen.
In another representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing has first and second lateral folds, and wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the first and second lateral folds.
In a representative embodiment, the carrying strap may further comprise: a third flexible fabric or webbing coupled over the first and second lateral folds of the first flexible fabric or webbing to enclose the second flexible fabric or webbing between the first flexible fabric or webbing and the third flexible fabric or webbing. In such a representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing further may have first and second central folds over the second flexible fabric or webbing.
In a representative embodiment, the carrying strap may further comprise: a third flexible fabric or webbing arranged in between the second flexible fabric or webbing and the first and second central folds of the first flexible fabric or webbing to enclose the second flexible fabric or webbing between the first flexible fabric or webbing and the third flexible fabric or webbing.
In a representative embodiment, the carrying strap may further comprise: a plurality of cut-resistant monofilament polymer fibers arranged within the first and second lateral folds.
In various embodiments, the first flexible fabric or webbing has a first lateral fold on a first lateral side, wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the first lateral fold; and wherein the carrying strap further comprises: a third flexible binding coupled over the first flexible fabric or webbing on a second lateral side to enclose the second flexible fabric or webbing between the first flexible fabric or webbing and the third flexible binding.
In another representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing has a first lateral fold on a first lateral side to form two layers of the first flexible fabric or webbing, wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the first lateral fold and wherein a plurality of stitches couple the two layers of the folded first flexible fabric or webbing on the second lateral side. In such a representative embodiment, each of the two layers of the folded first flexible fabric or webbing may have a lateral fold on the second lateral side, wherein a plurality of stitches couple the lateral folds of the two layers of the folded first flexible fabric or webbing on the second lateral side.
In another representative embodiment, the second flexible fabric or webbing has a form factor of a plurality of flexible bindings, a first flexible binding of the plurality of flexible bindings coupled over the first flexible fabric or webbing on a first lateral side and a second flexible binding of the plurality of flexible bindings coupled over the first flexible fabric or webbing on a second lateral side.
In another representative embodiment, the second flexible fabric or webbing has a first side and a second side and first and second lateral edges, the first flexible fabric or webbing is arranged on the first side of the second flexible fabric or webbing; and wherein the carrying strap may further comprise: a third flexible fabric or webbing arranged on the second side of the second flexible fabric or webbing and coupled to the first flexible fabric or webbing laterally to the first and second lateral edges of the second flexible fabric or webbing.
In another representative embodiment, the second flexible fabric or webbing has a first side and a second side and first and second lateral edges, the first flexible fabric or webbing is arranged on the first side of the second flexible fabric or webbing; and wherein the carrying strap may further comprise: a third flexible fabric or webbing arranged on the second side of the second flexible fabric or webbing; a first flexible binding of a plurality of flexible bindings coupled over the first and third flexible fabrics or webbings on a first lateral side; and a second flexible binding of the plurality of flexible bindings coupled over the first and third flexible fabrics or webbings on a second lateral side.
In another representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing has a first lateral fold on a first lateral side; and wherein the carrying strap may further comprise: a third flexible fabric or webbing offset laterally from the first flexible fabric or webbing, the third flexible fabric or webbing having a second lateral fold on a second lateral side; wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the first lateral fold and the second lateral fold. In such a representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing may have a first lateral region and a second lateral region, the third flexible fabric or webbing may have a first lateral region and a second lateral region, wherein the first lateral regions of the first and third flexible fabrics or webbings are coupled to a first side of the second flexible fabric or webbing and the second lateral regions of the first and third flexible fabrics or webbings are coupled to a second side of the second flexible fabric or webbing to enclose the second flexible fabric or webbing between the first flexible fabric or webbing and the third flexible fabric or webbing.
In another representative embodiment, the second flexible fabric or webbing has first and second lateral folds, and wherein the first flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the first and second lateral folds. In such a representative embodiment, the second flexible fabric or webbing further may have first and second central folds over the first flexible fabric or webbing.
In another representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing has first and second lateral folds, wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing has first and second lateral folds and is arranged within the first and second lateral folds of the first flexible fabric or webbing; and wherein the carrying strap may further comprise: a plurality of cut-resistant monofilament polymer fibers arranged within the first and second lateral folds of the second flexible fabric or webbing. In such a representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing further may have first and second central folds over the second flexible fabric or webbing.
In another representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing has first and second lateral folds, wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing has first and second lateral folds and is arranged within the first and second lateral folds of the first flexible fabric or webbing; and wherein the carrying strap may further comprise: a third flexible fabric or webbing coupled to the folded first flexible fabric or webbing on a first side; and at least one cut-resistant monofilament polymer fiber arranged centrally between the first side of the folded first flexible fabric or webbing and the third flexible fabric or webbing.
In various embodiments, the first flexible fabric or webbing has first, second and third lateral folds to form a first bottom layer, a second top layer, a third intermediate layer and a fourth intermediate layer, wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the first and second lateral folds of the first flexible fabric or webbing; and wherein the carrying strap may further comprise: at least one cut-resistant monofilament polymer fiber arranged centrally between the third and fourth intermediate layers of the first flexible fabric or webbing.
In another representative embodiment, the first flexible fabric or webbing has first, second and third lateral folds to form a first bottom layer, a second top layer, a third intermediate layer and a fourth intermediate layer, wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the third lateral fold of the first flexible fabric or webbing; and wherein the carrying strap may further comprise: at least one cut-resistant monofilament polymer fiber arranged centrally between the third and fourth intermediate layers of the first flexible fabric or webbing.
In various embodiments, the first flexible fabric or webbing has first, second and third lateral folds to form a first bottom layer, a second top layer, a third intermediate layer and a fourth intermediate layer, wherein the second flexible fabric or webbing is arranged within the first, second and third lateral folds of the first flexible fabric or webbing; and wherein the carrying strap may further comprise: at least one cut-resistant monofilament polymer fiber arranged centrally between the third and fourth intermediate layers of the first flexible fabric or webbing.
In a representative embodiment, the carrying strap may comprise: a first flexible fabric or webbing; and a cut-resistant polymeric fiber matrix extending longitudinally along or within the first flexible fabric or webbing, the polymeric fiber matrix comprising at least one polymeric fiber arranged as a plurality of polymeric fiber intersections, each fiber intersection comprising at least two sections of the at least one polymeric fiber abutting each other, the at least one polymeric fiber comprising at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn; wherein the first flexible fabric or webbing and cut-resistant polymeric fiber matrix collectively have a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 3,000 grams applied over 20 mm laterally across the carrying strap.
In such a representative embodiment, the polymeric fiber matrix may be woven or braided into the first flexible fabric or webbing. In another representative embodiment, the polymeric fiber matrix comprises a plurality of warp cut-resistant polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns.
In a representative embodiment, the carrying strap may comprise: a first flexible fabric or webbing; and a security panel assembly coupled to the first flexible fabric or webbing, the security pan& assembly comprising: a first flexible material layer having a first side and a plurality of edges; and a polymeric fiber matrix arranged on the first side of the first flexible material layer, the polymeric fiber matrix comprising at least one polymeric fiber arranged as a plurality of polymeric fiber intersections or crossings, each fiber intersection or crossing comprising at least two sections of the at least one polymeric fiber abutting each other, the at least one polymeric fiber comprising at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn; a second flexible material layer arranged adjacent to the polymeric fiber matrix and coupled to the first side of the first flexible material layer with a plurality of stitches, or with an adhesive, or with both a plurality of stitches and an adhesive.
Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention and the embodiments thereof, from the claims and from the accompanying drawings.
The objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more readily appreciated upon reference to the following disclosure when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to identify identical components in the various views, and wherein reference numerals with alphabetic characters and/or numeric subscripts are utilized to identify parts or subparts of a component or additional types, instantiations or variations of a selected component embodiment in the various views, as further indicated by textual context, in which:
While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will be described herein in detail specific exemplary embodiments thereof, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment consistent with the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of components set forth above and below, illustrated in the drawings, or as described in the examples. Methods and apparatuses consistent with the present invention are capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract included below, are for the purposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
Reference is made to the following patent applications and issued patents, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference with the same full force and effect as if set forth in their entirety herein (individually and collectively referred to as the “related applications”): U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/879,194; 15/879,149; U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,655,424; 9,486,047; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/484,472; U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,925,181; 9,854,890; 9,854,883; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/641,173; U.S. Pat. No. 9,675,153; and 9,681,716.
Various embodiments of security panel assemblies 100A-100J are illustrated in the various Figures and discussed below and, as a result, any reference herein to a security panel assembly 100 shall be understood to mean and include any and all of the various security panel assembly and subassembly embodiments disclosed herein, including without limitation security panel assemblies 100A-100J. Various embodiments of carrying straps 20A-20T are illustrated in the various Figures and discussed below and, as a result, any reference herein to a carrying strap 20 shall be understood to mean and include any and all of the various carrying strap embodiments disclosed herein, including without limitation carrying straps 20A-20T illustrated and discussed below with reference to
While various first, second, third, etc. material layers, fabrics, webbings, etc., are illustrated and discussed herein, it should also be noted that the usage of first, second, third, etc. in the claims may differ and may not track the usage in describing the Figures, e.g., depending upon and due to the ordering of the claim elements. For example, the claims may refer to a first fabric or webbing because it is listed as a first claim element, while the detailed description may refer to it as a second fabric or webbing, and vice-versa, particularly as the various embodiments may refer to the same feature or element which is utilized in different structures of the different embodiments. For example, the detailed description may refer to a first webbing material 210 which does not include a polymeric fiber matrix 125 and to a second fabric or webbing material 284 which does include a polymeric fiber matrix 125, while due to the ordering of claim elements, the claims may refer to a first fabric or webbing material which does include a polymeric fiber matrix and a second fabric or webbing material which does not include a polymeric fiber matrix.
As discussed in the related applications, in addition to incorporating one or more security panel assemblies 100 and a cut-resistant strap 20, the representative carrying bag 50 embodiment generally or optionally includes other security features, such as locking zipper pulls 25 (for a zippered opening 22 to provide access to the interior 24 of the bag 50) and locking snap hooks 30 coupling the strap 20 to the carrying bag 50. Such a representative carrying bag 50 embodiment may have any selected or desired form or style, including as shown at https://www.travelonbags.com/anti-theft, such as a purse, a backpack, a briefcase, a laptop or tablet case, a weekender bag, a crossbody bag, etc., also for example and without limitation.
The various Figures illustrate nonmetallic, fiber-based security panel assemblies 100 and nonmetallic, fiber-based carrying straps 20. Instead of utilizing a metallic wire or cable to form a wire matrix, for these representative security panel assemblies 100 and carrying straps 20, a non-metallic, substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fiber, thread or yarn (individually and collectively referred to as a “fiber”) 110 is utilized, such as a Kevlar® aramid fiber, thread or yarn available from DuPont of Wilmington, Del. US, or a Vectran® liquid crystal polymer multifilament fiber, thread or yarn available from Kuraray America Inc. of Houston, Tex. US, or any of the various other non-metallic, substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns described below or as otherwise known in the art, including ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (“UHMWPE”), high-modulus polyethylene (“HMPE”), High Performance Polyethylene (“HPPE”), for example and without limitation. In addition, a security panel assembly 100 also may include a substantially cut-resistant fabric comprising a plurality of interwoven, spun, blown, or otherwise embedded or linked, substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns 110. The various security panel assemblies may also include spaced-apart fibers 110 forming a polymeric fiber matrix 125 (illustrated in
It should be noted that any reference to cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 should be understood to mean and include any one or more of the cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116, rather than all of the various nonmetallic, cut-resistant yarns or fibers 110, 112, 114, and 116. The various Figures also illustrate the use of various fabrics, webbings, or other flexible materials, which may or may not include cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116. As used herein, “fabric” and/or “webbing” should be understood to mean and include any type of woven or nonwoven flexible material, such as a flexible material formed from weaving, braiding, spinning, blowing, etc. of any type of natural or synthetic thread, yarn, or fiber, including any type of natural or synthetic leather, suede, or sponge, for example and without limitation, and any and all such variations are within the scope of the disclosure.
In addition, this polymeric fiber matrix 125 may also be included or embedded in the webbing utilized to form a substantially cut-resistant carry strap. For such embodiments, the cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 is or are typically woven with the other fiber material comprising the webbing during manufacture. Also for such embodiments, an additional cut-resistant metallic cable may not be required to provide the desired level of security.
Combinations of different types of material may also be utilized to form the various fibers 110. For example and without limitation, a cut-resistant fiber 110 may be combined with metallic or carbon fibers or threads, or elastic or rubber fibers or threads, in any of various combinations, such as a combination of steel and polymer.
Any type of weaving, braiding or knitting may be utilized, and as illustrated in the various Figures, to form a security panel assembly, a carrying strap, or a fiber 110. For example, a security panel assembly may include a substantially cut-resistant, knitted fabric comprising a plurality of abutting, knitted and substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns 110.
The various fibers 110 for the representative security panel assemblies and carrying straps may be spaced-apart or abutting, and may be interwoven with other types of threads, yarns or fibers (including metallic fibers, wires, yarns or threads), creating a substantially cut-resistant fabric or mesh having any type of finish or weave to create any desired flexibility, stretchability, texture, or other property of a fabric, for example and without limitation.
In addition to the various substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns discussed above, the substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns 110 forming representative security panel assemblies and carrying straps, may be comprised of a wide variety of materials and compounds, including for example and without limitation: polyethylene fibers, threads or yarns, such as ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (“UHMWPE”, e.g., a thermoplastic polyethylene having a molecular mass between about 3.5 and 7.5 million atomic mass units (Daltons), high-modulus polyethylene (“HMPE”), High Performance Polyethylene (“HPPE”); glass fibers, threads or yarns; nylon fibers, threads or yarns; Cuben Fiber (a laminated fabric constructed from Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber monofilaments and polyester, PVF etc. films) (“CTF3”). The resulting security panel assemblies 100 and carrying straps 20, and cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns 110, may have any desired level of cut-resistance or other properties to meet any applicable standard, such as the American National Standards Institute (“ANSI”) cut level A1-A9 standards or the EN388 standard, for various properties such as blade cut-resistance, abrasion resistance, tear resistance, and puncture resistance.
For example and without limitation, in a representative embodiment, the representative security panel assemblies and carrying straps, may have the following specification: ISO 13997:1999 Blade Cut Resistance Level 5=31.5 Newton; ANSI/BEA 2016 Blade Cut Resistance Level A5/A6=3007 grams/force (2200 grams minimum); EN 388:2003 Tear Strength Level 4 518.2 Newton; EN 388:2003 Abrasion Resistance Level 4=more than 8,000 cycles, and EN 388:2003 Puncture Resistance Level 4 =271.6 Newton. Various substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns are available commercially, including Dyneema® (and Cubic Tech) from Royal DSM N.V., The Netherlands and Stanley, North Carolina, U.S.; Cut-Tex® PRO from PPSS Group, United Kingdom; and Spectra® by Honeywell, Colonial Heights, Va., U.S. The security panel assembly also may have any selected coating, such as a rubber or polymer coating, for example and without limitation. In the various illustrated embodiments, such nonmetallic, cut-resistant yarns or fibers 110 may appear as yellow in color, and in some embodiments, is also referred to as “fishing” lines or cut-resistant material (“CRM”) filaments.
As used herein, unless otherwise specified, “cut-resistant” for a security panel assembly 100 or fabric 200 means and includes a capability to meet or exceed (equal or be greater than) the American National Standards Institute (“ANSI”) ANSI/ISEA 105 (2016) cut level A2 within a predetermined distance interval of at least 5 cm, i.e., to provide resistance to cutting by a moving blade having an applied force up to 500 grams as the blade is moved or attempted to be moved over or across a distance of 5 cm or more within 10 seconds. For example, a security panel assembly 100 may be initially punctured by a blade in areas of the security panel assembly 100 in which there is no cut-resistant polymer-based fiber, thread or yarn 110, but as the blade is moved, within 5 cm of the point of puncture, the blade will encounter a resistance to cutting which meets or exceeds ANSI/ISEA 105 (2016) cut level A2. Continuing with the example, in a representative embodiment, the movement of such a cutting blade applied force up to 500 grams generally will be stopped within such a 5 cm interval. A material which is not considered particularly “cut-resistant”, such as a cotton fabric of a T-shirt for example, is capable of being cut by a moving blade having an applied force less than 500 grams as the blade is moved or attempted to be moved over or across a distance of 5 cm or more.
For a carrying strap 20 to provide an anti-theft feature, it need only provide resistance to cutting laterally across the strap 20, such that the strap 20 is not cut into two or more separate pieces, which would enable it to be detached from the wearer's shoulder or from a chair, for example. As used herein, unless otherwise specified, “cut-resistant” for a carrying strap 20 means and includes a capability to meet or exceed (equal or be greater than) the American National Standards Institute (“ANSI”) ANSI/ISEA 105 (2016) cut level A2 within a predetermined distance interval of at least 5 cm laterally across the carrying strap 20, i.e., to provide resistance to cutting by a moving blade having an applied force up to 500 grams as the blade is moved or attempted to be moved laterally (i.e., perpendicular to its length or longitudinal dimension) across the carrying strap 20 over or across a distance of 5 cm or more within 10 seconds.
For example and without limitation, representative embodiments of the security panel assembly 100 and carrying straps 20 meet or exceed ANSI/ISEA 105 (2016) cut level A4 or A5, for example and without limitation, withstanding an applied force up to 1,500 grams or 2,200 grams respectively as the blade is moved or attempted to be moved over or across a distance of 20 mm. For example and without limitation, representative embodiments of the security panel assembly 100 and carrying straps 20 meet or exceed ANSI/ISEA 105 (2016) cut level A6, for example and without limitation, withstanding an applied force up to 3,000 grams as the blade is moved or attempted to be moved over or across a distance of 20 mm.
The various cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns 110 utilized to form the representative security panel assemblies and carrying straps and/or to form any of the protected seams, may comprise a single strand or multiple strands, with any selected thread count, which in turn may be twisted or braided, for example and without limitation, such as “super braid”, “extreme braid”, polyethylene-based filament lines such as braided lines of Dyneema® and Spectra®, fishing lines, and which also may be coated, such as to have a slippery coating or film, such as a silicone, plastic, other polymer, or wax coating, also for example and without limitation.
The security panel assembly 100 may be configured to have any desired shape or size, such as rectangular, square, circular, trapezoidal, cuboid, rhomboidal, a parallelepiped, ovoid or ellipsoid, or any and all other shapes and sizes, for example and without limitation.
The substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns 110 may be comprised of any nonmetallic wire, cable, fiber, thread or yarn, twisted or untwisted, braided or unbraided, coated or uncoated, and any and all combinations of metallic and nonmetallic wires, cables, fibers, threads or yarns. For example and without limitation, substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns 110 may be combined with or further comprised of one or more metallic (e.g., steel, titanium) or polymeric fibers, wires, threads or yarns, or various combinations of different materials, including any and all of the various polymeric fibers, threads or yarns 110 discussed above, and as may be combined in any of various ways, such as with metallic or carbon fibers or threads, metal alloys, or elastic or rubber fibers or threads, in any of various combinations, such as a combinations of steel and polymer. In a representative embodiment, the substantially cut-resistant polymer-based fibers, threads or yarns 110 are selected for a combination of flexibility and cut-resistance, not just tensile strength, and may have any of various compositions which may include multiple metallic or nonmetallic wires, cables, fibers, threads or yarns, including steel wires, cables, fibers, threads or yarns, such as configured as twisted or untwisted 1×3, 1×7, 1×19, 3×7, 7×7, 7×19, 7×37, etc., wires, cables, fibers, threads or yarns, for example and without limitation.
For example and without limitation, forming a polymeric fiber, thread or yarn 110 are a plurality of high modulus polyethylene fibers such as UHMWPE or HPPE, with a center core, and a plurality of strands (or roots) of it braided together around the core, such as eight fibers around the core, typically formed using a cable knitting machine or another twisting mechanism for the braid. The amount of UHMWPE or HPPE in any of the polymeric fibers, threads or yarns 110 may be varied as may be necessary or desirable to meet any selected specification, and a representative embodiment utilizes 100% UHMWPE, for example and without limitation. Specialized cutters, as known in the art, are utilized to cut the polymeric fibers, threads or yarns 110 or polymeric fiber matrix 125 to the desired length or size.
Additional wire cables or fibers may also be included in any of the various straps, and polymeric fibers, threads or yarns 110 may be substituted for any specification of one or more wire cables in any of the various straps, and vice-versa.
Those having skill in the art will recognize that additional variations of the structure of representative security panel assemblies and carrying straps are available, and all such variations are considered equivalent and within the scope of the disclosure, as disclosed in the patent applications described above and incorporated herein by reference.
Referring to
A wide variety of predetermined patterns may be implemented for the routing of the nonmetallic, cut-resistant yarn or fiber 110, 112, 114, or 116, such as an oscillating pattern, in addition to the patterns illustrated. In a representative embodiment, the predetermined pattern is selected or implemented to create a plurality of intersections (or crossings) 138, in which there are a plurality of intersections (or crossings) 138 formed along or spaced apart from each edge of the plurality of edges 122, 124, 126, and/or 128, together with a plurality of intersections (or crossings) 138 within the interior of the polymeric fiber matrix 125 (i.e., the region spaced apart inwardly or closer to the center).
In addition, as the polymeric fiber matrix 125 is formed by a nonmetallic, cut-resistant yarn or fiber 110, 112, 114, or 116 having ends 134, 136 which are not generally or sufficiently sharp and therefore would generally not pierce portions of the bag 50, the ends 134, 136 do not require any particular positioning or coating within the security panel assembly 100A, and may extend externally to the first material layer 406 (i.e., beyond the edges 122, 124, 126, and/or 128 of the first material layer 406) as illustrated in
The security panel assembly 100B differs from the security panel assembly 100A only insofar as the security panel assembly 100B includes the optional second material layer 408. As the security panel assembly 100A does not include the optional second material layer 408, the polymeric fiber matrix 125 also may be stitched or otherwise adhered to the first material layer 406 (such as through stitch lines 415 or adhesive 132).
It should be noted that the first flexible material layer 406 and the optional second material layer 408 may be formed by other components of the bag 50. For example, in a representative embodiment, the security panel assembly 100A is coupled directly to the exterior fabric or material 40 of the bag 50, such that the exterior fabric or material 40 comprises or forms a second material layer 408. The combination of the security panel assembly 100A with the exterior fabric or material 40 then results in a security panel assembly 100B in which the second material layer 408 comprises or is formed by the exterior fabric or material 40, forming a security panel assembly 100B which is integrated with or forms a panel of the bag 50. Also for example, in a representative embodiment, the security panel assembly 100A is coupled directly to the lining fabric or material 42 of the bag 50, such that the lining fabric or material 42 comprises or forms a second material layer 408. The combination of the security panel assembly 100A with the lining fabric or material 42 then results in a security panel assembly 100B in which the second material layer 408 comprises or is formed by the lining fabric or material 42. Also for example, in a representative embodiment, the first material layer 406 may be comprised of the lining fabric or material 42 of the bag 50, and the second material layer 408 may comprise the exterior fabric or material 40, also forming a security panel assembly 100B which is integrated with or forms a panel of the bag 50.
It should be noted that the polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 can be penetrated, such as with a sewing needle, without damaging the polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116, in contrast with metallic cables, which can be broken or damaged when pierced. Also, the ends 134, 136 of the cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 are not sharp, also in contrast to metallic cables, and do not require additional protection from poking through a material layer or during fabrication (e.g., to avoid cutting a person). Lighter weight material layers may also be used to form the security panel assemblies 100.
For the security panel assemblies 100, the ends of the cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 forming the polymer matrix 125 can be unfinished, can be secured inward toward the center of the respective security panel assembly 100, can be stitched or otherwise secured into one or more seams 60 (discussed below), can be additionally stitched into the material layer(s), or can be left alone, such as extending out of the outer boundaries of the first material layer 406 and/or optional second material layer 408 of the security panel assembly 100. The edges of the security panel assemblies 100 may be secured directly into a seam 60, and the polymer matrix 125 does not require an offset from the seams 60 of prior art metallic wire security panel assemblies. Additionally, foam or other layers are not necessary to be inserted between the security panel assemblies 100 and the material forming the exterior 40 of the carrying bag 50. Any adhesive within the security panel assemblies 100 is also optional.
One of the difficulties associated with using a cut-resistant fabric 200 directly within a seam 60 is that such cut-resistant fabrics 200 may tend to be thick or bulky, and may distort the seam 60 or render the seam 60 less precise, which may affect the style or desirability of the bag 50. The second flexible materials (or material layers) 408 of the security panel assembly 100G, or parts thereof, are typically less thick and/or more pliable than a cut-resistant fabric 200. Accordingly, in a representative security panel assembly 100G, such a cut-resistant fabric 200, as a first flexible material (or material layer) 406 having an embedded polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116, is coupled to one or more second flexible materials (or material layers) 408 which are not cut-resistant. In representative embodiments, as discussed in greater detail below, portions of the one or more second flexible materials (or material layers) 408 (one or more seam regions 170) are inserted (with other materials, such as the exterior fabric 40 and/or lining 42) into and stitched (or adhered) within seams 60 to secure the assembly 100G in a bag 50, bag panel 35, 45, 55 or gusset 70.
For the security panel assembly 100G, the one or more second flexible materials (or material layers) 408 extend beyond one or more edges 168 of the first flexible material (or material layer) 406, forming one or more seam regions 170. The one or more seam regions 170 are inserted (at any selected or desired location within the one or more seam regions 170, along with other materials, such as the exterior fabric 40 and/or lining 42) into and stitched (or adhered) within seams 60 to secure the assembly 100G in a bag 50, bag panel 35, 45, 55 or gusset 70.
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In a representative security panel assembly 100H, a plurality of cut-resistant fabrics 200, as a plurality of first flexible materials (or material layers) 406 having an embedded polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116, is coupled (such as through stitching or an adhesive) to one or more second flexible materials (or material layers) 408 which are not cut-resistant. In representative embodiments, as discussed in greater detail below, portions of the one or more second flexible materials (or material layers) 408 (one or more seam regions 170) are inserted (with other materials, such as the exterior fabric 40 and/or lining 42) into and stitched (or adhered) within seams 60 to secure the assembly 100H in a bag 50, bag panel 35, 45, 55 or gusset 70.
For the security panel assembly 100H, the one or more second flexible materials (or material layers) 408 also extend beyond one or more edges 168 of the first flexible materials (or material layers) 406, forming one or more seam regions 170. The one or more seam regions 170 are inserted (at any selected or desired location within the one or more seam regions 170, along with other materials, such as the exterior fabric 40 and/or lining 42) into and stitched (or adhered) within seams 60 to secure the assembly 100H in a bag 50, bag panel 35, 45, 55 or gusset 70.
As illustrated in
The cut-resistant polymer, rubber, or resin 175 may comprise, for example and without limitation, any polymer, polymeric precursor, rubber, or resin selected from the group consisting of: natural and synthetic rubber materials; any type or form of plastics; lacquers; vinyls and polyvinyls such as polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyvinyl alcohols, polyacrylic acids, polyethylene oxides, polyvinyl butyral (PVB); diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 2-ethyl oxazoline; clays such as hectorite clays, garamite clays, organo-modified clays; saccharides and polysaccharides such as guar gum, xanthan gum; celluloses and modified celluloses such as hydroxy methylcellulose, methylcellulose, ethyl cellulose, propyl methylcellulose, methoxy cellulose, methoxy methylcellulose, methoxy propyl methylcellulose, hydroxy propyl methylcellulose, carboxy methylcellulose, hydroxy ethylcellulose, ethyl hydroxyl ethylcellulose, cellulose ether, cellulose ethyl ether, chitosan; polymers such as acrylate and (meth)acrylate polymers and copolymers; glycols such as ethylene glycols, diethylene glycol, polyethylene glycols, propylene glycols, dipropylene glycols, glycol ethers, glycol ether acetates; and combinations thereof.
For the various carrying straps 20B-20T discussed below, reference may be made to a fabric or webbing material which does not include a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116. It should be noted that this feature is entirely optional, such that a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 are not required in these fabric or webbing materials (e.g., webbing 210, fabric or webbing 215, 220), and any such fabric or webbing materials may be modified to include a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 within the scope of the disclosure.
For the various carrying straps 20B-20T discussed below, reference may be made to a fabric or webbing material which does include a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116. It should be noted that any such fabric or webbing material which does include a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116, e.g., a second fabric or webbing material 284, may be embodied as or may be comprised of a security panel assembly 100 or a cut-resistant fabric 200, for example and without limitation.
As another option for this representative strap 20H embodiment, not separately illustrated, using the same illustrated structure, the first webbing material 210 may include a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 (e.g., replaced by a cut-resistant fabric or webbing 235), and the second binding fabrics or materials 250 may or may not include a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116. For such an embodiment, any of the various additional cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 may be omitted or included, optionally.
For this carrying strap 20L embodiment, the first and second webbing materials 210A, 210B are offset laterally from each other, in an offset arrangement partially described in the related applications. The first webbing material 210A has a first lateral edge 252A, a first lateral region 244A, a second lateral edge 252B, and a second lateral region 254B. The second webbing material 210B has a first lateral edge 252C, a first lateral region 254C, a second lateral edge 252D, and a second lateral region 254D. The first lateral region 254C of the second webbing material 210B has a lateral fold 276 which wraps around the first lateral edge 292A of the third, core fabric or webbing material 260. The second lateral region 254B of the first webbing material 210A has a lateral fold 278 which wraps around the second lateral edge 292B of the third, core fabric or webbing material 260. In this arrangement, the first lateral edge 252C of the second webbing material 210B is adjacent the first lateral edge 252A of the first webbing material 210A on a first side 294 of the strap 20L, and the second lateral edge 252D of the second webbing material 210B is adjacent the second lateral edge 252B of the first webbing material 210A on a second side 296 of the strap 20L.
It should be noted that the first, filler material core 255 may be comprised of any flexible material, such as any type of fabric, any type of sponge, or any other type of compressible or non-compressible material which will add thickness to the strap 20. For any selected embodiment, as an option, the first, filler material core 255 also may include a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116.
As another option for this representative strap 20R embodiment, not separately illustrated, using the same illustrated folded structure of the first fabric or webbing material 220 and the third fabric or webbing material 215, the first, filler material core 255 may be replaced by a cut-resistant fabric or webbing 235 or a cut-resistant second fabric or webbing material 284, for example and without limitation. As another option for this representative strap 20R embodiment, not separately illustrated, using the same illustrated folded structure of the first fabric or webbing material 220 and the third fabric or webbing material 215, the cut-resistant second fabric or webbing material 284 may be omitted, for example and without limitation, while including the centrally arranged cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116. For such embodiments, any of the various second fabric or webbing material 284 in other locations (such as wrapped within the folded third fabric or webbing material 215) and/or cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 may be omitted or included, optionally.
In a representative embodiment, the second fabric or webbing material 284 may be arranged centrally, along the longitudinal middle of the strap 20S, in any of a plurality of locations, such as (1) in between the third intermediate layer 322 and the first bottom layer 316 of the third fabric or webbing material 215; or (2) in between the fourth intermediate layer 324 and the second top layer 318; or (3) the second fabric or webbing material 284 may be arranged in between the third intermediate layer 322 and the first bottom layer 316 of the third fabric or webbing material 215 and may further extend around (within lateral fold 216B) in between the fourth intermediate layer 324 and the second top layer 318. The first, filler material core 255, the second fabric or webbing material 284, and the folded third fabric or webbing material 215 are secured through stitching 212 (and/or an adhesive, not separately illustrated). The third fabric or webbing material 215 typically does not have, although it may have, a polymeric fiber matrix 125 having cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116. As an option for this representative embodiment, additional cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 may be included, such as arranged within any of the various lateral folds 216A, 216B, 216C, as illustrated, for example and without limitation.
As another option for this representative strap 20S embodiment, not separately illustrated, using the same illustrated folded structure of the third fabric or webbing material 215, the third fabric or webbing material 215 may be replaced by a cut-resistant fabric or webbing 235, for example and without limitation. For such an embodiment, any of the various second fabric or webbing material 284 and/or cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 may be omitted or included, optionally.
Such exchanges of any of the various cut-resistant and non-cut-resistant fabric and webbing materials, and inclusion of non-inclusion of cut-resistant, polymeric fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns 110, 112, 114, or 116 and/or a polymeric fiber matrix 125, may be performed for any of the various straps 20, as necessary or desirable, to tailor the cut-resistance of the strap 20 to any desired level, e.g., to an ANSI level A5, for example. In addition, any of the fabric, webbing or other material components straps 20 may include any additional lateral folds, which may be upward folds or downward folds, extending toward or away from the longitudinal center or middle of the strap 20, which may also be coupled (such as through stitching or adhesive) to other fabric, webbing or other material components straps 20.
Although the invention has been described with respect to specific embodiments thereof, these embodiments are merely illustrative and not restrictive of the invention. In the description herein, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of electronic components, electronic and structural connections, materials, and structural variations, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that an embodiment of the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other apparatus, systems, assemblies, components, materials, parts, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not specifically shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of embodiments of the present invention. One having skill in the art will further recognize that additional or equivalent method steps may be utilized, or may be combined with other steps, or may be performed in different orders, any and all of which are within the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, the various Figures are not drawn to scale and should not be regarded as limiting.
Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or a specific “embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment and not necessarily in all embodiments, and further, are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics of any specific embodiment may be combined in any suitable manner and in any suitable combination with one or more other embodiments, including the use of selected features without corresponding use of other features. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular application, situation or material to the essential scope and spirit of the present invention. It is to be understood that other variations and modifications of the embodiments of the present invention described and illustrated herein are possible in light of the teachings herein and are to be considered part of the spirit and scope of the present invention.
It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the Figures can also be implemented in a more separate or integrated manner, or even removed or rendered inoperable in certain cases, as may be useful in accordance with a particular application. Integrally formed combinations of components are also within the scope of the invention, particularly for embodiments in which a separation or combination of discrete components is unclear or indiscernible. In addition, use of the term “coupled” herein, including in its various forms such as “coupling” or “couplable”, means and includes any direct or indirect structural coupling, connection or attachment, or adaptation or capability for such a direct or indirect structural coupling, connection or attachment, including integrally formed components and components which are coupled via or through another component.
The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.”
All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the Invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference; the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present invention. To the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.
Furthermore, any signal arrows in the drawings/Figures should be considered only exemplary, and not limiting, unless otherwise specifically noted. Combinations of components of steps will also be considered within the scope of the present invention, particularly where the ability to separate or combine is unclear or foreseeable. The disjunctive term “or”, as used herein and throughout the claims that follow, is generally intended to mean “and/or”, having both conjunctive and disjunctive meanings (and is not confined to an “exclusive or” meaning), unless otherwise indicated. As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, “a”, “an”, and “the” shall not be limited to a single item or element and include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and unless specifically disclaimed. Also as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way of example, though specific claim language may include the word “between”, the interpretation of such a word shall not be limited to preclude extent of elements beyond boundaries of the example unless specific disclaimer is made or unless by virtue of prosecution the term is to be limited. The examples of the invention should therefore not be interpreted as limiting unless indicated as such.
The foregoing description of illustrated embodiments of the present invention, including what is described in the summary or in the abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed herein. From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous variations, modifications and substitutions are intended and may be effected without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concept of the invention. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific methods and apparatus illustrated herein is intended or should be inferred. It is, of course, intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims. Thus, while there has been set forth embodiments of the invention, the invention is to be limited only by the following claims and equivalents.
Claims
1. A carrying strap comprising:
- a first flexible material layer having a length and a width, the first flexible material layer forming a webbing having finished first and second lateral edges extending along the length of the first flexible material layer; and
- at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn extending in a warp direction and woven or braided into the first flexible material layer.
2. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn extends an entire length of the first flexible material layer in the warp direction.
3. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn is woven or braided as an integral warp wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn of the first flexible material layer.
4. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn further comprises a multifilament metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn.
5. The carrying strap of claim 4, wherein the multifilament metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn comprises a plurality of steel wires, cables, fibers, threads or yarns.
6. The carrying strap of claim 5, wherein the multifilament metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn comprises a twisted configuration selected from the group consisting of: 1×3, 1×7, 1×19, 3×7, 7×7, 7×19, 7×37, and combinations thereof.
7. The carrying strap of claim 5, wherein the multifilament metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn comprises an untwisted configuration selected from the group consisting of: 1×3, 1×7, 1×19, 3×7, 7×7, 7×19, 7×37, and combinations thereof.
8. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn further comprises a multifilament wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn having at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn.
9. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn further comprises a multifilament wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn having at least one carbon fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn
10. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn further comprises:
- a first metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn extending in the warp direction adjacent to the first lateral edge; and
- a second metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn extending in the warp direction adjacent to the second lateral edge.
11. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn further comprises:
- a first multifilament metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn extending in the warp direction adjacent to the first lateral edge; and
- a second multifilament metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn extending in the warp direction adjacent to the second lateral edge.
12. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn further comprises:
- a plurality of metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns extending in the warp direction and woven or braided into the first flexible material layer.
13. The carrying strap of claim 1, wherein the first flexible material layer and the at least one metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn collectively have a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 3,000 grams applied over 20 mm laterally across the carrying strap.
14. A carrying strap comprising:
- a first flexible material layer having a length and a width, the first flexible material layer forming a webbing having finished first and second lateral edges extending along the length of the first flexible material layer;
- a first multifilament metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn extending in a warp direction the entire length of the first flexible material layer and woven or braided into the first flexible material layer adjacent to the first lateral edge; and
- a second multifilament metal wire, fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn extending in the warp direction the entire length of the first flexible material layer and woven or braided into the first flexible material layer adjacent to the second lateral edge.
15. The carrying strap of claim 14, wherein the first and second multifilament metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns are each woven or braided as integral warp wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns of the first flexible material layer.
16. The carrying strap of claim 14, wherein the first and second multifilament metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns comprise a plurality of steel wires, cables, fibers, threads or yarns.
17. The carrying strap of claim 16, wherein each of the first and second multifilament metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns comprises a twisted configuration selected from the group consisting of: 1×3, 1×7, 1×19, 3×7, 7×7, 7×19, 7×37, and combinations thereof.
18. The carrying strap of claim 16, wherein each of the first and second multifi lament metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns comprises an untwisted configuration selected from the group consisting of: 1×3, 1×7, 1×19, 3×7, 7×7, 7×19, 7×37, and combinations thereof.
19. The carrying strap of claim 16, wherein each of the first and second multifilament metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns further comprises at least one polymeric fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn.
20. The carrying strap of claim 16, wherein each of the first and second multifilament metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns further comprises at least one carbon fiber, filament, cable, thread or yarn
21. A carrying strap comprising:
- a first flexible material layer having a length and a width, the first flexible material layer forming a webbing having finished first and second lateral edges extending along the length of the first flexible material layer; and
- a plurality of multifilament metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns extending in a warp direction the entire length of the first flexible material layer and woven or braided into the first flexible material layer;
- wherein the first flexible material layer and the plurality of multifilament metal wires, fibers, filaments, cables, threads or yarns collectively have a cut-resistance level to withstand an applied cutting force up to 3,000 grams applied over 20 mm laterally across the carrying strap.
