MODULAR WALLET

Abstract

A modular wallet including an elastic band and an outer jacket, and in some cases, various internal flexible components including at least one divider, and/or card valet. Each component utilizes corresponding notches that are positioned such that they align when assembled, allowing for convenient securing by the band. The wallet can be reconfigured for different purposes, such as carrying oversized documents such as a passport. The wallet allows freedom to arrange elements and add to and remove components freely and as needed. Additionally, components of different colors may be used interchangeably as an accessory to a variety of clothing.

Description

PRIORITY

The application claims priority to, and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/150,741, filed Feb. 18, 2021, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present invention relates to a modular wallet.

BACKGROUND

Conventional wallets are typically fixed in construction and include a fixed amount of storage space. Conventional wallets are often rectangular and can create a rectangular-shaped bulge when placed in the pocket of slacks or jeans, especially when placed in a front pocket. Conventional wallets are often smooth on the exterior surface and can slide out of a pocket unintentionally. Conventional wallets are typically folded containers that require two hands to open. Conventional wallets also typically do not offer a closure to avoid accidental loss of contents. There exists a need for improvements in wallet design.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present invention provide a wallet including modular components that collectively improve wallets and the experience of using them. “Components” herein refers to the various pieces that can be combined as described herein to form a wallet. They can be combined as shown in the figures, or mixed and matched as desired by the user. Disclosed embodiments provide a modular wallet including a rubber ring or band that groups an outer jacket, and various internal components including items such as a card valet folder or optional card holder, a divider, a divider that has slits that can secure personal items, an optional folder that can store a passport, and an optional core panel that can add support to the assembled wallet. Some components includes corresponding notches that are positioned such that they align when assembled, allowing for convenient securing by the band. The wallet can be reconfigured with various combinations of the components for different purposes, from a need to store very few items to such as carrying oversized documents such as a passport. Additionally, components of different colors may be used interchangeably for decorative purposes such as complimenting the colors in clothing.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a wallet design that minimizes the harsh rectangular bulge, a bulge that can leave a faded and bruised rectangular shape in the front pocket of denim jeans. Some embodiments provide a wallet with flexible layers that are stepped to create a tapered edge to soften the edge of stacked rectangular items stored within. Some embodiments provide a thin wallet that minimizes the bulge in a pocket. Some embodiments provide a wallet that flexes naturally with its contents when pressure from tight clothing and movement is applied.

Additionally, some embodiments include an elastic band around a wallet, which can help to thwart the plan of a pickpocket. The band provides friction against the inside of the pocket, making it harder for someone to grab it out unknowingly to the wearer.

Some embodiments provide a wallet that includes access on two sides without the need to unfold. Some embodiments provide a wallet that is modular and allows for expansion of pockets or minimization to a single pocket or folder. Additionally, a modular system allows for flexibility in function. It is desirable to have options in the storage of personal items other than paper currency, credit cards, and identification. Some embodiments provide a wallet with tabs to partition and organize groupings of similar items for quick access, as well as for customization. Some embodiments provide a passport-sized folder that can be inserted or removed as needed.

Some embodiments provide a wallet with a receptacle (i.e. a hole) for a hook or clasp. Holes placed in the design of an outer cover allow for a wallet to be sealed and locked by a clasp. The clasp may include a lanyard for hanging the wallet.

Some embodiments provide a wallet including rubber or leather panels that have designated slits to hold and secure such personal items. This panel or divider can also include an eyelet or hole to receive the clasp of a lanyard—allowing the wallet to hang around the neck or be attached to a keychain clasp inside a purse or backpack, or tethered to a hip pocket on a safety chain.

Some embodiments provide a clear or at least translucent wallet to see the contents without opening. A clear wallet that can be hung on a lanyard around the neck can display a name badge or ID card. Such identification lanyards are popular with students and with professionals who visit or present at tradeshows and exhibitions. It is desirable to have an identification lanyard include pockets to store items such as business cards, hotel key cards, meal cards, currency, maps, notes, and personal items including safe storage of medication.

Some embodiments provide a clear wallet with pockets as a luggage tag. One side can display identification and other pockets can provide storage for items convenient for access while attached to a travel bag.

In embodiments, the wallet system is composed of various pieces: An elastic band, which can be a tubular O-ring, or flat if a silicone rubber band. The band gathers an outer jacket that contains one or more dividers and/or a thicker core panel. A card valet folder enables separating and securing up to three groups of cards or other items, and a folder large enough to accommodate a passport. These various components are disposed within an inside the outer jacket and are bound by the elastic band. Each piece has notches on both sides or “ends” where the band registers each piece in alignment. In some embodiments, the notches can be u-shaped, v-shaped, or rectangular with a flat-surface. The components of embodiments of the wallet may be comprised of leather, synthetic leather, rubber, plastic, or other suitable material such that it is inherently thin and flexible. In embodiments, the band may be comprised of neoprene rubber, nitrile rubber, silicone rubber, or other suitable elastic material. The band may have a round cross-section or a flat cross-section in some embodiments.

Wallets are traditionally made with leather or fabric material and pieced together with stitching. It may be desirable to construct a wallet without the need for stitching. In some embodiments of the invention, stitching may not be present. Stitching is the most common point of failure in the durability of traditional wallets. In some embodiments, an outer jacket or folder made of leather, faux leather, rubber, or plastic does not require stitching in this invention, as long as the selected material has structure, but remains flexible. For plastic the material will be thinner than if leather, for example. Assembly of components is made possible by an elastic O-ring or band. Furthermore, in embodiments, if a band should become worn or fail, the band can be replaced without needing to replace the entire wallet.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the outer jacket (or other component) may be decorated on-demand with a customer's name or initials or a personal image or decoration. Digital printing allows for the photographic impression on material such as plastic or canvas. Laser etching can personalize with letters or graphics. When the band used is flat it, may also be decorated with letters or a logo if these graphics are included in the molding process of the silicone band manufacturing.

Embodiments of the invention minimize the harsh rectangular shape of a wallet's contents by including a distinctive rounded contour shape. For some designs, the edge in the width dimension is softened by using stepped panels in the construction. In some embodiments, the outer jacket is thinner in width than the dividers, and a core panel is the widest of all component pieces.

As a modular system, pieces can be taken away and pieces can be added. Accordingly, additional dividers may be provided. Optional inserts can be offered that feature slits that can secure personal items, such as a spare key, a blister pack of pills, and wireless earbuds. Loose items like coins and stamps can be stored in an envelope with a flap closure and still be secured with notches that match the other component pieces.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows components of a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows components of a second embodiment that is sized and configured specifically to accommodate a passport.

FIG. 3A shows a perspective exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3B shows the embodiment of FIG. 1A in an assembled configuration.

FIG. 4A shows a perspective exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 1B.

FIG. 4B shows the embodiment of FIG. 1B in an assembled configuration.

FIG. 5A shows a perspective exploded view of a rearrangement of the elements in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5B shows the wallet of FIG. 5A with an example core divider panel having a belt adapter affixed to a belt.

FIG. 6A shows a perspective exploded view of another embodiment.

FIG. 6B shows the embodiment of FIG. 6A in assembled configuration with an oversized document folder.

FIG. 6C shows the embodiment of FIG. 6A in assembled configuration without an oversized document folder.

FIG. 7 shows an insert in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8A shows a wallet with flat-surfaced notches in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8B shows a flat band for use with the wallet of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8C shows the flat band in use with the embodiment of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 shows the embodiment of FIG. 3B being manipulated by a user's hands.

FIG. 10A shows an envelope that can be used as a component of embodiments.

FIG. 10B shows the envelope of FIG. 10A in assembled configuration.

FIG. 11A shows an optional card holder.

FIG. 11B shows the optional card holder of FIG. 11A in assembled configuration.

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment with a lanyard attached.

FIG. 13A shows another example of a core divider panel.

FIG. 13B shows the core divider panel of FIG. 13A with an item attached thereon.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are merely representations, not necessarily intended to portray specific parameters of the invention. The drawings are intended to depict only example embodiments of the invention, and therefore should not be considered as limiting in scope. In the drawings, like numbering may represent like elements. Furthermore, certain elements in some of the figures may be omitted, or illustrated not-to-scale, for illustrative clarity.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Some embodiments of the invention provide a modular wallet including a rubber ring or elastic band that groups an outer jacket and a card valet folder that may secure groups of items. Some embodiments of the invention provide a modular wallet including a rubber ring or elastic band that groups an outer jacket. Some embodiments further include a card valet folder that may secure groups of items. Some embodiments also include one or more dividers. Embodiments may also include a core panel and/or a passport-sized insert folder. Both the core panel and the outer jacket may include holes enabling this wallet to be hung on a lanyard, attached to a chain, or hung as a luggage tag. Some wallet designs utilize contoured layers that step back creating soft edges that minimize the rectangular bulge wallets placed in a pocket can create.

Embodiments include a modular wallet system where a band groups an outer jacket, and various internal components. All components share notches that receive the band to secure all elements and keep them in functional alignment. Components can include: dividers of different height and different colors if a design accent is desired; heavier core panels that may or may not have a hole for a lanyard clasp; utility dividers that can have a hole for a lanyard hook and also have slits that can secure personal items not traditionally stored in conventional wallets, and a card valet folder made of rubber so it grips to secure up to 3 groups of cards.

The wallet can be reconfigured for different purposes, such as carrying oversized documents such as a passport when a tall folder is inserted. The standard wallet is tall enough to conceal cash folded once and not twice as many minimalist wallets require. When there is the occasion to need only a few cards the wallet system is further reduced down to a simple money clip that is comprised of two panels and another band. In some embodiments, all components are constructed without the need of a bonding of glue or stitching so the components are longer lasting. All components are flexible in durometer for a more comfortable experience when stored in the front or back pocket of slacks or jeans.

Embodiments allow for expandable storage space. The elastic band reduces slippage of wallet by adding friction in a user's pocket, and thwarts pickpockets.

Features of the disclosed embodiments will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of the various aspects of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “some embodiments”, or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” “in some embodiments”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

Moreover, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope and purpose of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the invention.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, the use of the terms “a”, “an”, etc., do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. The term “set” is intended to mean a quantity of at least one. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising”, or “includes” and/or “including”, or “has” and/or “having”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, regions, dimensions, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 1, multiple component of a wallet 100 are shown. In embodiments, an outer jacket 101 and an elastic band 105 are required, at a minimum. The elastic band may also be sold as a separate component from the remaining components without departing from the scope of the invention. Some embodiments include the outer jacket 101, a rubber card valet folder 180, and an elastic band 105, which in this embodiment is an “O-ring.” Some embodiments further include a tabbed divider 102, a tabbed divider 103, and a core panel 104. In embodiments, the elastic band is comprised of rubber. The term, “elastic” herein, refers to a material that is able to resume its normal shape spontaneously after contraction, dilatation, or distortion. In some embodiments or configurations, the dividers 102, 103, and core panel are not present.

The outer jacket 101 has a hinge 124 to allow it to fold. In some embodiments, the outer jacket 101 comprises of two outer jacket panels 181, 189 having a hinge 124 in between. The panels 181, 189 may be made from the same material, and folded into shape. In some embodiments, the outer jacket 101 has holes 122a and 122b that align with the hole 122c of the core panel 104, allowing a lanyard or clip to be connected to the wallet 100 to enable wearing it around a user's neck, or other suitable carrying method. Card valet folder 180 has two card valet panels 182, 183 with a hinge 161 therein between to allow the folder to fold. The card valet panels may be made of the same material and folded into shape. Dividers 102, 103 are typically a solid piece of material, and has a tabbed contour to facilitate organization and access.

The notches (121a-121q) may vary in size if the widths of the modular components vary in width. In embodiments the notches 121a-121q may have contours, such as V-shape, U-shape, or rectangular in shape. Outer jacket 101 and the card valet folder 180 have the smallest notches 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d, and 121n, 121o, 121p, 121q, and core panel 104 has the largest notches 121k, 121m. Card valet folder panels include notches 121n, 121o, 121p, 121q. In some embodiments, the outer jacket is comprised of plastic. Dividers 102 and 103 all use the mid-size notch 121e, 121f, 121g, and 121h.

Note that herein that the term, “hinge,” refers to one or more bends, or scores via which a component may bend. For example, a plastic component of embodiments might include two scores to facilitate accurate folding. In some embodiments, such as in FIG. 10A, single scores are included. In some embodiments, components of the invention are each a single piece made from a continuous material without stitches or hardware interrupting the continuity. Accordingly, “hinge” may be a “bend”, “fold”, or “score” of the material.

FIG. 2 details another embodiment of a wallet 150 that includes components that may be in a larger travel-size format to accommodate the storage of a passport. Wallet 150 includes an outer jacket 151 and an elastic band 105. In some embodiments, insert 153 (“insert” and “divider” are used herein interchangeably) may also be included in the wallet 150 to aid in organizing the contents of the wallet, which can include multiple passports and boarding passes of other family members traveling together. In some embodiments, core panel 154 is included in the wallet. In the example, core panel 154 includes an optional belt adapter 154, has two slots (openings or slits) 173a and 173b for receiving a belt. The notches 171k, 171m, of the belt adaptor 154 are configured to align with notches 171a, 171b, 171c, and 171d of the outer jacket 151, and notches 171g, 171h of the insert 152, and notches 171e, 171f of the insert 153.

Referring now to FIG. 3A, assembly is detailed with the divider 102 and divider 103 placed on each side of the core panel 104. The outer jacket 101 is double-scored and folded if plastic at hinge 124 and used as a jacket for the core panel, dividers, and the card valet folder, and then gathered by the band 105, which may be an elastic O-ring having a rounded outer surface. In some embodiments, with materials other than plastic, scores may not be necessary. FIG. 3B shows the embodiment of FIG. 3A in an assembled configuration, with credit card 141 in card valet folder 180 stored within the wallet 100.

FIG. 4A shows another embodiment of a wallet 150 implemented in a larger travel-size format to accommodate the storage of one or more passports. Assembly is detailed with the dividers 152 and 153 placed on each side of a core divider with belt adapter 154. The outer jacket 151 is double-score folded, if plastic, at hinge 174 and used as a jacket for the belt adapter and dividers, and then gathered by the elastic band 190, which may be a rubber O-ring. Elastic band 190 is substantially similar to band 105 of FIG. 1, but larger to accommodate the larger wallet size. FIG. 4B shows the embodiment of FIG. 4A in an assembled configuration, with passport 181 stored within the wallet 150.

Referring now to FIG. 5A, wallet 150 of FIG. 4A is shown in an alternate configuration with the belt adapter 154 moved from the position indicated at 154′ to be next to the inside of jacket 151 so pockets created by the dividers can be more easily accessed when this wallet is secured to the user's body via a belt. The elastic band 190 then is placed around the wallet as shown in FIG. 4B.

Referring now to FIG. 5B, the belt adapter 154 is shown affixed to a belt 161. The belt 161 may be threaded through the slots 173a and 173b as shown. Note that the belt adapter is essentially a panel with slots through which the belt may be threaded. In use, the wallet 150 of FIG. 5A is affixed to the belt adapter 154 via elastic band 190. In this way, the wallet 150 can be conveniently stored on the front hip of the user allowing for quick access to a passport or boarding pass. Once a belt is threaded through the belt adapter 154, the outer jacket still remains as the exterior. When the belt is worn with the wallet therein, it may stay on the hip of the wearer, and they may slide items in and out. Removal off the hip is not required to access the contents of this passport wallet.

Referring now to FIG. 6A, there is shown additional embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, an oversized document folder 520 may be included. Within this specification, the oversized document folder 520 may be referred to as a “passport folder.” However, the oversized document folder 520 is suitable for holding a variety of oversized documents or note cards. For the purposes of this disclosure, oversized documents are documents that exceed the size of a standard wallet. The passport folder 520 includes a first panel 518 and a second panel 519 with a hinge 521 there in between. that folds and can tuck behind any divider and into the wallet similar to how a matchbook cover closes. The passport folder 520 may have slits 572a, 572b which act similarly to slots or holes for a belt 173a, 173b of FIG. 5B.

The passport folder 520 is taller than the panels 501, 508 of the outer jacket 560. Panel 501 is shorter in length than panel 508, and have a hinge 521 there in between. The notch 516 (and another notch disposed on the opposite side are configured such that when those notches are aligned with the notches of the other components the passport folder will be registered and secured by the same elastic band. The band 505 is placed around the components, aligned in notches, similar to as shown in FIG. 3B.

Passport folder panel 518 may be tucked inside the back side of the jacket 560. A passport, index note card, photograph, identification badge, international driver's license, or other larger item may fit there within. This embodiment may also include a card valet folder 510, and a divider 514 which when in register with the elastic band will top align with jacket panel 508.

Embodiments can include a card valet folder 510 disposed within the jacket. The card valet folder 510 has two sides and a fold therein between which creates 3 pockets when nested inside the jacket and a divider. The three pockets may hold 3 groups of credit, ID, or banking cards. The card valet folder 510 may be made from rubber or another material that can use friction to secure cards that are inside this folder or on either side of this folder.

In some embodiments, the wallet may include multiple dividers such as 512 and 514. In some embodiments, the dividers may be of different colors. In this way, the user can select a divider based on a wardrobe. For example, if wearing a red suit, the user may select a red accent divider for use in the wallet, and if wearing a blue suit, the user may remove the red divider and instead insert a blue divider for use in the wallet. Dividers can be made of leather, ultra-thin carbon fiber veneers, plastic, or any thin and flexible material. Both dividers 512 and 514 are tall enough to conceal cash folded in half. Divider 512 is slightly shorter than 514 to facilitate access when thumbing through wallet contents.

Embodiments may further include an RFID scan blocking card 538, which serves to prevent nefarious reading of RFID chips contained within the wallet, thereby increasing security. In some embodiments, the RFID scan blocking card 538 may be comprised of metal, and in some cases, may further comprise passive and/or active electronic components. In some embodiments, the RFID scan blocking card 538 is constructed in PVC plastic that contains scan blocking circuitry inside. This technology allows scan protection to the entire wallet no matter where it is placed. Using a scan blocking card is recommended so RFID blocking fabric need not be sewn or glued into the outer jacket interior. Embodiments may further include a utility divider 539, which, as detailed in FIG. 7, can store personal items and provide a hole for a hook or lanyard. -In some embodiments, a card holding system comprised of panel 531 and panel 533, which are secured together by silicone band 535, is used in place of card valet folder 510. This 3-unit assembly defines a money clip that can stand on its own as the most minimal of modular options in this overall system of modular components. FIG. 6B shows the embodiment 500 of FIG. 6A in assembled configuration with the oversized document folder. FIG. 6C shows the embodiment of FIG. 6A in assembled configuration without an oversized document folder. FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C illustrate that the various components of the wallet, when assembled, form spaces there in between in which money, credit cards, and other items can be stored.

FIG. 7 shows a utility divider 600, held in a user's hand 675, in accordance with some embodiments. Insert 600 is formed from a panel 602 that includes key band 604a and key band 604b suitable for securing a key 606. Insert 600 may further include earbud band 605a and earbud band 605b, suitable for securing wireless earbuds 606a and 606b there through. The same slits that create 605a and 605b can be used to secure the top corners of a blister pack of medicine or condom packaging. Insert 600 further includes notch 617a and notch 617b to allow the insert 600 to be secured via a band similar to as shown in FIG. 6B. Insert 600 further includes an opening 634 to allow it to be secured via a clip 609 to a lanyard 611.

As can be seen in FIG. 7, the slits that create key bands 604a and 604b are oriented parallel to each other. The slits that create earbud bands 605a and 605b are oriented at a non-orthogonal angle with respect to the key bands 604a and 604b. In some embodiments, the earbud bands 605a and 605b are oriented at a 90-degree angle from each other, in order to facilitate effective storage of earbuds 606a and 606b. Embodiments can include an insert, the insert comprising a plurality of key bands aligned in parallel. Embodiments can further include a plurality of earbud bands aligned at a non-orthogonal angle to the plurality of key bands.

The utility divider may store an item 607, such as a medication, a condom, or other flatly wrapped item. The slits that make up bands 606a and 606b can secure the top corners of the wrapped item 607.

FIG. 8A shows a wallet 700 with flat-surfaced notches in accordance with some embodiments. Wallet 700 may be similar to wallet 100, wallet 150, or wallet 500, with the main difference being the shape of the notches are flat-surfaced. As can be seen in FIG. 8A, notches at 721a have a flat contoured surface (i.e. are rectangular in shape) and notches at 721b have flat contoured surfaces (i.e. are rectangular in shape). Note that the notch surfaces may not be completely flat, but rather substantially flat to accommodate a flat band.

FIG. 8B shows a perspective view of a flat elastic band 705 (as opposed to a tubular O-ring). In embodiments, the flat elastic band 705 comprises a flat outer surface 707 that may have a logo 719 molded into the surface, imprinted, affixed, or embroidered thereon. The logo can include images, symbols, and/or text.

FIG. 8C shows the flat elastic band 705 in use with the embodiment of FIG. 8A. By enabling a logo on the flat band used in disclosed embodiments, it provides branding and/or promotional opportunities for businesses, creating advertising impressions each time the wallet 700 is used. The notches shown in FIG. 8A can be applied to any of the embodiments shown within this disclosure. In embodiments, the elastic band comprises a flat outer surface. Some embodiments further include a logo on the flat outer surface. Some embodiments of the flat elastic band comprise silicone, or other suitable material.

FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of FIG. 3B, having cash 803 therein, being manipulated by a user's hands 801 and 802. The assembled wallet is a soft and flexible money clip with dividers. The band stays in place so placing or removing items is possible by rolling the cover or jacket over the knuckle so the other hand can access contents. Alternatively, squeezing the long dimension of the wallet can create the space needed for a finger to slide items in and out.

FIGS. 10A and 10B shows an envelope 900 that can be used as a component of embodiments. Envelope 900 may be approximately 15-point thick if comprised of polyethylene or polypropylene plastic, or foldable synthetic paper. Envelope 900 has notches 920a and 920b in panel 901 similar to those found in FIG. 1 to accept the elastic band. Loose items like coins and stamps can be stored in area 902 with flap closures 910a, 910b, and 910c folded in toward panel 902 to create a pouch. This pouch is folded on fold line 961 toward the tabbed panel 901. Once folded as shown in 10B, the envelope 900 is placed into the wallet with a tab visible like the tab of divider 102 in FIG. 3B.

FIGS. 11A and 11B show an optional card holder 1000. The holder is two ultra-thin panels 531, 533, made of carbon fiber or other suitable material, and an elastic band 535. The two panel pieces have a “mushroom cap” top so they align by butting the top of the elastic band 535. The elastic band 535 may have a height T, for example, 1.5 inches, though any suitable value is included within the scope of the invention. An RFID blocking card, similar to that shown at 538, shares the curved contoured top so when it is placed with cards inside this card holder 1000 it sticks up slightly and can act like a tabbed divider (should the user want to partition groups of cards). Card holder 1000, can replace the card valet 510 in FIG. 6A and be part of a larger wallet. Card holder 1000 can also stand alone as the most minimal wallet in this modular invention. Beyond cards, cash—folded twice—or other items can be stored therein between panels 531 and 533 or between the band 535 and the outer faces of panels 531 and 538.

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment 1200 with a lanyard 1205 attached at clasp 1202. This embodiment includes a utility divider 1203 similar to 600 of FIG. 7. The utility divider has a hole that can accept a lanyard hook 1202. Other embodiments such as wallet 100 (of FIG. 1) also may have an identical functioning utility divider but with a contour and notch design compatible with the wallet shape.

FIGS. 13A and 13B show an example of an optional core divider folder 1301. In some embodiments, the divider 1301 includes holes 1303A and 1303B to accommodate a lanyard. Divider 1301 includes panels 1306, 1307, and hinge 1305. It includes slots 1304a, 1304b to receive and secure the corners of a package of medicine or a condom wrapper represented as 1360. An opening 1302 is therein to allow room for the thick center of the condom package in between the two panels 1306, 1307. In some embodiments, such hole 1305 is elongate to allow personal items to pass through if the packaging is slightly taller than the space between the slits 1304a and 1304b and the base of panels 1306 and 1307 as defined by the folding. Bands 1304a and 1304b show a key 1366 being held therein.

The outer jacket, card valet folder, insert, and other components may be substantially flat on each side, or have indents or protrusions thereon. Each may have a logo or other artwork printed thereon.

Unless described herein otherwise, the components of embodiments may be made from leather or faux leather; plastic of PVC, polyethylene, or polypropylene; rubber of neoprene, nitrile or silicone; carbon fiber or Kevlar with TPU coating, synthetic paper, cardboard, or other suitable material. Dividers that do not fold may be made from carbon fiber veneers and ultra-thin stainless steel. Steel with a gauge of 0.010 inch thickness can flex similarly to the credit cards within the wallet.

Components of embodiments, such as the outer jacket and card valet folder, dividers, etc. are made from material that are not rigid. This allows a user to easily manipulate the components and is more comfortable in the user's pocket.

In some embodiments, no components include any stitching, glue or binding of any type. This helps with durability, as there are no stitches to break and no bonded layers that can separate.

Embodiments vary in size. Each component is designed to conceal cards, paper currency, or oversize items such as a passport. As an example, a card holder of FIG. 11A may be approximately 3.5×2.25 inches when assembled. The wallets of embodiments that conceal cash, such as 500 of FIG. 6C, may be approximately 4.25 x 3.25 when assembled. Designs that include a jacket with holes for hanging are taller, such as 100 of FIG. 1 may have a height of approximately 3.5 inches when assembled. Adding a passport insert to the standard-sized wallets, like in FIG. 6B, increases the height to 5.5 inches, for example, when assembled. The large format wallet, such as shown in FIGS. 4B and 5, designed for passport storage may be 5.5×4.25 inches when assembled. These are non-limiting examples, and other suitable sizes are included within the scope of the invention.

Outer jackets, dividers, and inserts would look substantially the same as the drawings shown if viewed from the other side (i.e. flipped over). The exception is the embodiment in FIG, 6A where L1 is shorter in length than L2, and L4 is longer in length than L3. on FIG. 6A. In some embodiments, L1 FRONT of 560 is approx. 3 inches L2 is approx. 3⅜ inches. In some embodiments, L3 is approx. 4⅜ inches, and L4 is approx. 5 inches.

The outer jacket and the dividers may be approximately 15-point thick if comprised of polyethylene or polypropylene plastic, or as thick as approximately 1/16 of an inch if comprised of rubber or leather. The outer jacket can be comprised of leather, synthetic material, rubber, plastics or other natural material as long as the material is flexible. The core panel may be thicker, approximately 22-35 points thick if polyethylene or polypropylene. The core panel can also be offered in alternative materials such as rubber, carbon fiber or aluminum to provide RFID protection or simply to provide a more hi-tech appearance. This core panel may be thicker to provide structure/stiffness for the wallet. It also has the benefit of serving as leverage when fingers press to open and access contents. Some embodiments may include an opening within one or more panels to enable attaching of wallets of disclosed embodiments on a lanyard while still maintaining access to the pockets on each side of the divider. The outer jacket can have matching holes that when clipped by a lanyard clip, seal the open end, preventing any accidental loss of contents from all pockets.

Note that any measurements herein are examples, and any suitable sizes are included within the scope of the invention.

Components and features of the invention may be mixed and matched, and are not limited to the embodiments in the drawing(s) in which they are shown.

Jackets, panels, dividers, inserts, and other components may be flat on each side or may have ridges or grooves thereon, or other contour. Sine embodiments, the edges of such components may be rounded at the corners. In some embodiments, the outer jacket and/or the flat dividers and/or the passport folder insert may be customized with colors, designs, company logos, photographs, illustrations, and/or other design elements to provide a stylistic appearance to the wallet. On-demand printing technology can allow customers to decorate their own wallets with their photos or artwork.

While the disclosure outlines exemplary embodiments, it will be appreciated that variations and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art. For example, although some of the illustrative embodiments are described herein as a series of acts or events, it will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited by the illustrated ordering of such acts or events unless specifically stated. Some acts may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other acts or events apart from those illustrated and/or described herein, in accordance with the invention. In addition, not all illustrated steps may be required to implement a methodology in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, the methods according to embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in association with the formation and/or processing of structures illustrated and described herein as well as in association with other structures not illustrated. Moreover, in particular regard to the various functions performed by the above-described components (assemblies, devices, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (i.e., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention. It should be recognized that the materials described herein as from which the components of the wallet are made are examples, and any suitable materials may be used. In addition, while a particular feature of embodiments of the invention may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more features of the other embodiments as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Therefore, it is to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A wallet comprising:

an elastic band;

an outer jacket comprising a first outer jacket panel and a second outer jacket panel having a first hinge therein between; and

a card valet folder comprising a first card valet panel and a second card valet panel having a hinge therein between;

wherein the first outer jacket panel and the second outer jacket panel, and the first card valet panel and the second card valet panel each have notches on a first end and a second end around which the elastic band may engage.

2. The wallet of claim 1, further comprising a divider, wherein the divider comprises notches at a first end and a second end, which are alignable with the notches of the outer jacket and the card valet panels when the wallet is assembled.

3. The wallet of claim 1, wherein the elastic band is comprised of rubber.

4. The wallet of claim 1, wherein the outer jacket is comprised of plastic, leather, synthetic leather, vegan leather, rubber, or carbon fiber fabric that is encased in TPU rubber.

5. The wallet of claim 1, further comprising an oversized document folder.

6. The wallet of claim 5, wherein the oversized document folder has a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel is longer than the second panel, wherein the first panel and the second panel have a hinge there in between.

7. The wallet of claim 5, wherein the oversized document folder is sized to accommodate a passport between the first panel and the second panel.

8. The wallet of claim 5, wherein the oversized document folder further comprises two slits on the first panel sized to accommodate a threading of a belt there through.

9. The wallet of claim 1, further comprising a utility panel, which includes slits sized and configured to accept the corners of a condom wrapper or packet of medicine.

10. The wallet of claim 1, further comprising utility panel, the utility panel comprising a plurality of slits aligned in parallel.

11. The wallet of claim 10, wherein the utility panel further comprises two earbud bands, sized to accommodate standard ear buds therein.

12. The wallet of claim 1, wherein the elastic band is comprised of rubber.

13. The wallet of claim 1, wherein the elastic band comprises a flat outer surface.

14. The wallet of claim 1, wherein the elastic band has a rounded outer surface.

15. The wallet of claim 13, further comprising a logo on the flat outer surface.

16. The wallet of claim 1, further comprising a lanyard.

17. The wallet of claim 1, wherein the card valet folder is made of rubber.

18. A wallet comprising:

an elastic band;

an outer jacket comprising a first outer jacket panel and a second outer jacket panel having a first hinge therein between; and

wherein the first outer jacket panel and the second outer jacket panel each have notches on a first end and a second end around which the elastic band may engage.

19. A wallet comprising:

an outer jacket comprising a first outer jacket panel and a second outer jacket panel having a first hinge therein between; and

a card valet folder comprising a first card valet panel and a second card valet panel having a hinge therein between;

wherein the first outer jacket panel and the second outer jacket panel, and the first card valet panel and the second card valet panel each have notches on a first end and a second end around adapted to fit an elastic band.

20. The wallet of claim 19 further comprising an elastic band.