PACK WITH DEPLOYABLE PANEL

Abstract

A chestpack or other personal effect is provided having a chest panel that comprises at least one folding panel. The folding panel is hingedly attached to the chest panel, and is operable to be in a secured or deployed position. At least one retention pocket is on the chest panel. At least one tab is on the folding panel, being operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket and secure the folding panel in the closed position.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to wearable packs. More particularly, the invention relates to a chestpack having a deployable chest panel.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Wearable packs configured for use during outdoor activities are commonly available. Existing products generally do not have systems that allow fast access to a protective compartment that allows a user to access an article without removing the article from the pack. For example, a map or a smartphone is generally carried in a pocket or a backpack, and to be accessed the user must remove the backpack or undo clothing layers to access the article.

For activities requiring gloves, often the gloves must be removed to access the article due to the inherent dexterity limitations of gloves. This leaves a user susceptible to the elements. For example, in winter sports, removing gloves may lead to discomfort or even frostbite. Should a user attempt to access an article without removing gloves, the article is far more prone to being dropped, lost, and mishandled.

Once the article is accessed, it is susceptible to the elements, such as rain, snow, dust, etc. Also, the article is subject to loss or being dropped. Dropping an article in water or from a great height may damage the device and/or end up lost. For example, a lost or damaged map could be extremely dangerous where navigation in unfamiliar or remote areas is dependent on the map. A lost smartphone could also result in loss of communication or loss of navigation tools, which could also be dangerous, if not deadly, depending on the situation.

Outdoor-related products often rely upon hook and loop fasteners and mechanical hardware such as zippers or snaps. Hook and loop fasteners may degrade over time, thus not providing a reliably secure attachment. Dirt and debris degrade hook and loop performance. Snow may build up on hook and loop surfaces, and prevent a secure attachment. Even if weakly secured, melted snow build-up provides a source of water when the snow melts, which may then damage or destroy a proximate article. Zippers and snaps are also prone to being blocked with debris, resulting in less reliable attachment. Furthermore, zippers and snaps are not particularly fast to open and close, and are difficult to operate with gloves on.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved article deployment system for a wearable pack and other personal effects. A chestpack and other personal effects are provided that have a folding panel for housing one or more articles. The panel is deployed from a secured position that provides protection of the device, to a deployed position that allows viewing, manipulation, and/or touchscreen access through a protective window. The article need not ever be removed from the panel, or a pocket therein, so the article is never detached from the pack. Thus, the article is protected from the elements while still being viewable and/or operable. The article is not subject to being dropped or lost. Lastly, the folding panel may be deployed by a user wearing gloves or mittens, thus protecting the user from the elements while additionally preventing inadvertent loss of said gloves or mittens, which may be extremely dangerous in harsh environments. A tab and pocket mechanism is provided for reliably securing a folding panel to a chest panel. Even moderate amounts of dirt, debris, and/or snow will not compromise the strength of attachment. Additionally, snow is not prone to accumulation on the tabs, as it is with hook and loop fasteners. Device access is extremely fast, secure, and protective, and an advancement in the art is realized.

SUMMARY

A pack is provided according to an embodiment. The pack comprises a chest panel further comprising at least one folding panel, wherein the folding panel is hingedly attached to the chest panel, and wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position. At least one retention pocket is defined by the chest panel. At least one tab is on the folding panel, the at least one tab operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket and to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

A method of manufacturing a pack is provided according to an embodiment. The method comprises forming a chest panel, and hingedly coupling at least one folding panel to the chest panel, wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position. At least one retention pocket is formed on the chest panel. At least one tab is coupled to the folding panel, wherein the at least one tab is operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

A personal effect is provided according to an embodiment. The personal effect comprises at least one folding panel hingedly attached to a chest panel on an exterior of the article of clothing, wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position. At least one retention pocket is defined by the chest panel. At least one tab is on the folding panel, the at least one tab operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket and to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

ASPECTS

According to an aspect, a pack comprises a chest panel further comprising at least one folding panel, wherein the folding panel is hingedly attached to the chest panel, and wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position. At least one retention pocket is defined by the chest panel. At least one tab is on the folding panel, the at least one tab operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket and to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

Preferably, a windowed panel is coupled to a posterior side of the folding panel to define a transparent pocket comprising an inlet operable to receive an article, wherein the transparent pocket provides that the article, when placed in the transparent pocket, is visible when the folding panel is in the deployed position.

Preferably, the pack further comprises a back panel and a pair of adjustable shoulder straps operably connected to the chest panel and the back panel, wherein the pair of adjustable shoulder straps is operable to secure the pack to a torso of a user when the pack is worn. A pair of adjustable hip belts is connected to the chest panel and the back panel, wherein the pair of adjustable hip belts is operable to secure the pack to the torso of the user when the pack is worn.

Preferably, the chest panel further comprises a first portion comprising a first anterior surface and a first posterior surface, wherein the first portion is connected to a first shoulder strap of the pair of adjustable shoulder straps, and the first portion is additionally connected to a first hip belt of the pair of adjustable hip belts, wherein the first portion comprises the folding panel hingedly attached to the first anterior surface. A panel fastener is coupled to the first portion. A second portion comprising a second anterior surface and a second posterior surface is provided, wherein the second portion is connected to a second shoulder strap of the pair of adjustable shoulder straps, and the second portion is additionally connected to a second hip belt of the pair of adjustable hip belts. A complimentary panel fastener is coupled to an anterior surface of the second portion, wherein the panel fastener and complimentary panel fastener are operable to couple to each other to couple the first portion to the second portion.

Preferably, the at least one tab comprises a first tab and a second tab, wherein the first and second tabs are operable to removably engage one or more retention pockets.

Preferably, a tab insert comprising an engagement region further defining the at least one tab, and an attachment region, wherein the attachment region is operable to be coupled to the folding panel.

Preferably, the attachment region comprises a sewable region, and wherein the attachment region is sewn to the folding panel.

Preferably, the engagement region comprises a thickness greater than a thickness of the attachment region.

Preferably, the at least one tab is operable to disengage the at least one retention pocket by providing an outward force to the folding panel from the secured position.

Preferably, the at least one tab is operable to engage, from a deployed position, the at least one retention pocket by bending the folding panel such that an engagement angle of the at least one tab, in reference to the at least one retention pocket, is positioned to penetrate an opening of the at least one retention pocket.

Preferably, the pack further comprises a battery pocket configured to hold a battery, and electroluminescent wire sewn into at least one portion of the pack, wherein the electroluminescent wire connects to the battery, when installed in the battery pocket.

According to an aspect, a method of manufacturing a pack comprises forming a chest panel, and hingedly coupling at least one folding panel to the chest panel, wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position. At least one retention pocket is formed on the chest panel. At least one tab is coupled to the folding panel, wherein the at least one tab is operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

Preferably, the method comprises coupling a windowed panel to a posterior side of the folding panel to define a transparent pocket, and forming an inlet into the transparent pocket, the transparent pocket operable to receive an article, wherein the transparent pocket provides that the article, when placed in the transparent pocket, is visible when the folding panel is in the deployed position.

Preferably, the method comprises forming a back panel, and connecting a pair of adjustable shoulder straps to the chest panel and the back panel, wherein the pair of adjustable shoulder straps is operable to secure the pack to a torso of a user when the pack is worn. A pair of adjustable hip belts is connected to the chest panel and the back panel, wherein the pair of adjustable hip belts is operable to secure the pack to the torso of the user when the pack is worn.

Preferably, the chest panel further comprises a first portion comprising a first anterior surface and a first posterior surface and a second portion comprising a second anterior surface and a second posterior surface. And the first portion is coupled to a first shoulder strap of the pair of adjustable shoulder straps. The first portion is also coupled to a first hip belt of the pair of adjustable hip belts. The folding panel is hingedly coupled to the first anterior surface of the first portion. A panel fastener is coupled to a first posterior surface of the first portion, and a complimentary panel fastener is coupled to the second anterior surface of the second portion. The second portion is coupled to a second shoulder strap of the pair of adjustable shoulder straps. The second portion is coupled to a second hip belt of the pair of adjustable hip belts, wherein the panel fastener and complimentary panel fastener are operable to engage each other and couple the first portion to the second portion.

Preferably, the method comprises providing a first tab of the at least one tab on the folding panel, and providing a second tab of the at least one tab on the folding panel. The first tab is operable to removably engage one or more retention pockets.

Preferably, the method comprises forming a tab insert, defining an engagement region of the tab insert that defines the at least one tab, defining an attachment region of the tab insert, and coupling the attachment region to the folding panel.

Preferably, the method comprises providing a sewable region of the attachment region, and sewing the attachment region to the folding panel.

Preferably, the method comprises forming the engagement region to comprise a thickness greater than a thickness of the attachment region.

Preferably, the method comprises positioning the at least one tab on the chest panel to be operable to disengage the at least one retention pocket by providing an outward force to the folding panel from the secured position.

Preferably, the method comprises positioning the at least one tab on the chest panel operable to engage, from a deployed position, the at least one retention pocket by bending the folding panel such that an engagement angle of the at least one tab, in reference to the at least one retention pocket, is positioned to penetrate an opening of the at least one retention pocket.

According to an aspect, a personal effect comprises at least one folding panel hingedly attached to a chest panel on an exterior of the article of clothing, wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position. At least one retention pocket is defined by the chest panel. At least one tab is on the folding panel, the at least one tab operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket and to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

Preferably, the personal effect comprises a jacket.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a chestpack;

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of an adjustable shoulder strap connection;

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a back panel of a chest pack;

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate embodiments of the back panel of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a chest panel of a chest pack;

FIG. 6 illustrates a posterior side of an embodiment of a first portion of a chest panel;

FIG. 7A illustrates an anterior side of an embodiment of a folding panel;

FIG. 7B illustrates a posterior side of an embodiment of a folding panel;

FIG. 8A illustrates a tab insert according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8B illustrates a top view of the tab insert of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method of forming a chestpack;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method of forming a chestpack;

FIG. 11A illustrates an embodiment of a personal effect having a folding panel in a secured position;

FIG. 11B illustrates an embodiment of personal effect of FIG. 12, with the folding panel in a deployed position; and

FIG. 12 illustrates an alternate embodiment of personal effect having a folding panel in a secured position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring first to FIGS. 1-10, a chestpack 100 worn by a user for outdoor activities, such as running, jogging, hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, etc. is provided according to embodiments The chestpack 100 provides easy and fast access to an article without removing the article from the chestpack 100, and allows for quicky re-securing the article after access. The article may be any number of items, and is not limited by the examples provided herein. For example, articles such as written directions, maps, personal items, electronics, cameras, etc. are noted. It is recognized that smartphones are popular items, and are well-suited for use in the embodiments provided herein, but, again, this is only provided as an example without limitation. A user may fold a folding panel 102 away from a chest panel 104, and in some embodiments, reveal a pocket 108 comprising a windowed panel 106. If a smartphone is placed therein the screen of the smartphone is visible without the need to remove the smartphone from the pocket 108. In some embodiments, the windowed panel 106 comprises a material that allows a touchscreen to be operated through the windowed panel 106. It should be noted that the folding panel 102 need not have a windowed panel 106 nor a pocket 108. In an embodiment, the folding panel 102 comprises an opaque pocket. In some embodiments, the folding panel 102 comprises a plurality of loops and/or pockets, such that a plurality of items may be organized therewith. For example, and without limitation, a plurality of tools may be stored and organized with the of loops and/or pockets. In some embodiments, the folding panel 102 comprises hook and loop or similar attachment means, such a Dual Lock™, so that items having complimentary attachment means may be securely attached to the folding panel 102. A chestpack is illustrated in most embodiments described herein, but other base articles are also contemplated wherein a folding panel 102 folds away from a chest panel 104, and in some embodiments, reveals a pocket 108 comprising a windowed panel 106. Personal effects 800 such as jackets, shell layers, vests, pants, backpacks, cases, baggage, and other articles of clothing and personally held items are embodiments contemplated.

Turning to FIG. 1, a chestpack 100 according to an embodiment is illustrated. It should be noted that chestpack 100 embodiments are discussed, but packs such as backpacks, hip packs, and sling packs are also contemplated. The chest panel 104 is coupled to a back panel 110 with a pair of adjustable shoulder straps 112. The chest panel 104 is further coupled to the back panel 110 with a pair of adjustable hip belts 114. In an embodiment, the shoulder straps 112 and hip belts 114 are constructed with mesh panels 116. Bind 117 may be present on the perimeter of the shoulder straps 112 and hip belts 114, as well as the chest panel 104 and back panel 110, and any other portion of the chest pack 100 where bind 117 is appropriate. Multiple mesh layers may be present. Hip Pockets 118 on the hip belts 114 may be formed from mesh as well. Crosshatched regions in the figures illustrate mesh. It should be appreciated that instead of mesh or in conjunction with mesh, other textiles may be utilized. Some examples, provided without limitation, include nylons, polyesters, powernet, polyether-polyurea copolymer fabrics, neoprenes, foams, etc. For example, the shoulder straps 112, hip belts 114, chest panel 104, and back panel 110 may comprise layers of materials, such as foam 121 sandwiched by layers of mesh, or any combination of suitable materials enumerated herein or those known in the art. EVA foam is considered for foam portions in embodiments. These materials may be utilized in other portions of the chestpack 100.

The hip belts 114 may be attached to one or more of the back panel 110 and chest panel 104 with belt extensions 120 and suitable hardware 122, such buckles, uniloops, etc. In an embodiment, the belt extensions 120 comprise webbing. FIG. 1 illustrates hip belts 114 with webbing belt extensions 120 that attach to hardware 122 coupled to the chest panel 104. The belt extension 120 ends may interact with the hardware 122 to form adjustment points so that a user can adjust the effective lengths of the hip belts 114. The hip belts 114 may attach to the back panel 110 with belt extensions 120, or may be sewn to the back panel 110. The hip belts 114 may be formed with the back panel 110.

The shoulder straps 112 are partially formed as extensions 124 that emanate from both the back panel 110 and the chest panel 104. Adjustable shoulder adjustment elements 126 are attached to chest panel 104 extensions 124, and interact with shoulder hardware 128 attached to the back panel 110 extensions 124. An example of shoulder hardware 128 is a uniloop coupled to a back panel 110 extension 124 that allows the distal portion of a shoulder adjustment element 126 to pass therethrough and fold back to attach to a proximal end 140 of itself, such that the distance between the chest panel 104 extension 124 and back panel extension 124 is adjustable. In the embodiment illustrated, complimentary fastener portions 130 are attached to the distal ends 132 of the shoulder adjustment elements 126 as well as to the chest panel 104 extensions 124. In the embodiment illustrated, the fastener portions 130 comprise a hook and loop fastener. The hook and loop is sewn to the chest panel 104 extensions 124. The hook and loop may be sewn to the chest panel 104 extensions 124 through the shoulder adjustment elements 126, as illustrated by the closure stitches 153 in FIG. 2. Other fasteners on the shoulder adjustment elements 126, such as buttons, snaps, clasps, hooks, and hardware known in the art, are contemplated. In a number of embodiments, the shoulder adjustment elements 126 proximate the distal end 132 of the shoulder adjustment elements 126 is This allows the effective length of the shoulder straps 112 to be adjusted by adjusting the shoulder adjustment elements 126 about the shoulder hardware 128, and securing the distal end 132 of the adjustment elements 126 to the chest panel 104 extensions 124, such as with hook and loop fasteners, as noted above. The shoulder adjustment elements 126 may be formed with textiles, webbing, elastic, materials known to those skilled in the art, and combinations thereof. Adjusting the effective length of the shoulder adjustment elements 126 by selecting where the complimentary fastener portions 130 engage each other provide the requisite shoulder strap 112 adjustability such that the chestpack 100 may be comfortably fitted to a user's torso.

FIG. 3 illustrates the back panel 110, which may include a hydration pocket 198 in the back panel operable to contain a fluid reservoir (not visible). A tube 200 connected to a fluid reservoir may project from the hydration pocket 198 so to allow a user to consume fluid from the fluid reservoir. The tube 200 may be secured to portions of the chestpack 100 with loops 202. Other attachment mechanisms are also contemplated, such as hardware, or magnets, for example. Arrow “E” illustrates that a loop allows objects to pass thereunder.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate that the hydration pocket 198 has a battery pocket 206 therein. The dashed line in FIG. 4A illustrates the battery pocket 206. The battery pocket 206 is configured to hold a battery (not shown) that is connectable to electroluminescent (EL) wire 208. The electroluminescent wire 208 may be illuminated to increase user visibility. A housing 210, preferably transparent or translucent, keeps the EL wire 208 in place.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the chest panel 104 may comprise a first portion 105 that attaches to a second portion 107, as shown by arrow “D,” and allows the chestpack 100 to be donned by a user without the need for making any adjustments to the shoulder straps or hip belts after they have initially been adjusted. The first portion is coupled to a first of the shoulder straps 112, while the second portion is coupled to a second of the shoulder straps 112. The first portion 105 comprises a first anterior surface 186, and first posterior surface 188, and the second portion 107 comprises a second anterior surface 190, and a second posterior surface 192. A panel fastener 194 on the first posterior surface 188 couples to a complimentary panel fastener (not visible) on the second anterior surface. The first anterior surface is visible when donned by a user, and the second anterior surface is the portion of the second portion 107 that contacts a user's chest when donned. The panel fastener and complimentary panel fastener may comprise hook and loop fastener, snaps, zippers, Dual Lock™ etc.

With additional reference to FIGS. 7A, and 7B, the chest panel 104 has a folding panel 102 attached thereto. The folding panel 102 may be placed in a secured position, or may be folded away from chest panel 104 into a deployed position. The arrow “A” on FIG. 5 illustrates as much. In embodiments, the folding panel 102 is a constructed from a combination of any of the following components: an outward facing panel 134, a windowed panel 106, a frame panel 142, a flexible sheet 146, and at least one tab insert 144. The outward facing panel 134 is the portion most visible when the folding panel 102 is in the secured position to form the most ventral surface 148 of the chestpack 100. The outward facing panel 134 is amendable to displaying logos and/or displaying reflective materials, for example.

In an embodiment, a window is present in the outward facing panel. This could allow a camera of a smart device, for example, to record while the folding panel is secured. The window may be made of a hard or soft material. The window may be framed by a framing member. The framing member may accommodate a door/panel/retractable cover that protects the window when closed, and reveals the window when in an opened position.

The noted components are sewn together in an embodiment, but other attachment means, such as fusing or the use of adhesives are contemplated, and may be utilized in any combination. The outward facing panel 134 and frame panel 142 are sewn together with the windowed panel 106 therebetween. By leaving an upper portion 150 of the folding panel 102 unsewn, a pocket 108 is formed, as illustrated by arrow “B” on FIG., with the arrow passing through the pocket's inlet. 7B. An article placed in the pocket 108 is therefore visible through the windowed panel 106. Proximate the upper portion 150, a closure 152 may be provided that facilitates the closing of the pocket 108. In the embodiment illustrated, hook and loop fastener (not visible) is sewn into the frame panel and/or windowed panel 106, and also onto an opposing surface of the folding panel 102. The closure 152 portions are situated such that the pocket 108 is openable and closeable. In the illustration provided, the closure is secured using stitches 138. Other fastening means, both waterproof/water-resistant and non-waterproof/non-water-resistant, are also contemplated, such as zippers and snaps for example. The frame panel 142 is formed from a single piece of material in embodiments. In other embodiments, at least one of the sides 154, bottom 156, and top 158 are separate pieces of material, that when sewn, form the frame panel 142. In some embodiments, a flexible sheet 146 is sewn to a portion of the folding panel 102, such as the outward facing panel 134, for example and provided without limitation. Alternatively, the flexible sheet 146 may be disposed between layers of material and are substantially not visible, as it is hidden by textiles, or the like, that comprise the outward facing panel 134.

A flap 160 provides a portion of the folding panel 102 that is attachable to the chest panel 104. Note that in FIG. 1 a flap cover 164 is placed over the flap 160 for both aesthetics and structural integrity purposes. A hinging region 162 that serves as the fulcrum for deploying the folding panel 102 is defined thereon. In an embodiment, the positioning of flap stitches 168 defines the hinging region 162. In an embodiment, a mechanical hinge is attached to the folding panel 102 and the chest panel, allowing the folding panel 102 to hingedly deploy about the mechanical hinge. The flexible sheet 146 may stop short of the hinging region 162, such as the flap stitches 168, so to prevent sewing through the flexible sheet 146, which may impede the folding action of the folding panel 102 about the hinging region 162. In other embodiments, the flexible sheet 146 comprises a portion of the hinging region 162.

Turning to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the folding panel 102 has at least one tab 170 proximate the upper portion 150 of the folding panel 102. In an embodiment, the tab 170 is defined by the flexible sheet 146. In another embodiment a separate tab insert 144 forms the at least one tab 170. Two tabs 170 are illustrated in the drawings, but a fewer or greater number of tabs is contemplated. The tab insert 144 comprises an attachment region 172 and an engagement region 174. The attachment region 172 generally has a thickness that is less than the engagement region 174, and is attachable proximate the upper portion 150 of the folding panel 102. In an embodiment, the attachment region 172 may be sewn through when assembling the folding panel 102. This may be via sewing, such as using tab stitches 176, by fusing, bonding, adhering, and combinations thereof.

The shape of the tabs 170 may be a polygonal shape, as presently illustrated, but may be other polygonal shapes, rounded/curved shapes, polygonal shapes with rounded/curved portions, etc. The surface 182 of the engagement region 174 may be relatively smooth or may have a texture thereupon. The smoother the surface 182, the easier it may be to engage retention pockets 176, while textures and/or features 184 such as ridges, barbs, bosses, arrays of small protrusions, and other patterns defined by the engagement region 174 facilitate engagement. Combinations are considered, such as a smooth texture, but with features 184 that share the same texture. In an embodiment, the attachment region 172 is between approximately 1 mm to 3 mm thick, while the engagement region 174 is between approximately 3 mm and 7 mm thick. Greater or lower thicknesses are considered. The tab insert 144 may be made from metals, plastics, polymers, composites, ceramics, and combinations thereof. The tab insert 144 may be formed using additive manufacturing techniques, subtractive manufacturing techniques, pressing, molding, and combinations thereof. Some examples include machining, 3D printing, and injection molding.

Turning additionally to FIG. 9, The tabs 170 project outward from the folding panel 102, and may engage retention pockets 176 formed on the chest panel 104 when in a secured position. The retention pockets 176 are of a complimentary size and dimension to securely engage the tabs 170. FIG. 1 illustrates the retention pockets 176 and arrows “C” show the direction and general orientation regarding the sliding engagement of the retention pockets 176 by the tabs 170. Dashed line 179 illustrates the hidden position of the tabs 170 and tab insert 144 when engaged, which is occluded by a chest panel portion 178. The chest panel portion 178 and an opposing portion 180 of the chest panel 104 define the retention pocket(s) 176. By applying a sufficient outward force to the folding panel 102, the tabs 170 will disengage the retention pockets 176, and allow the folding panel 102 to deploy. The sufficiency of the force depends on several factors, such as, for example, where a user grips the panel 102, the rigidity of the panel 102, the size and shape of the tabs 170 and retention pockets 176, etc. The outward force is a force exerted generally in the ventral direction, as considered from the perspective of a user wearing the chestpack 100. Conversely, by applying a small bending force proximate the tab insert 144, the folding panel 102 may bend and outward bow, thus allowing the tabs 170 to have a lowered position relative to the opening of the retention pockets in addition to an engagement angle that aids in initiation of penetration into the retention pockets 176. This bend/bow is illustrated by hands engaging the panel 102 in FIG. 9. The engagement angle of the tabs 170 in relation to the retention pockets 176 by bowing/bending the folding panel is between about 5° and 70°. The 0° reference equates to the folding panel 102 being unbowed and substantially coplanar with the chest panel 104, such as when the folding panel 102 is in the secured position. By releasing the bowing pressure on the folding panel 102 as the tabs 170 start to engage the retention pockets 176, the spring back of the folding panel 102 to an unbowed conformation forces the tabs 170 deeper into the retention pocket 176 and into the secured position.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart that describes a method of manufacturing, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, at step 710, the method may include forming a chest panel. At step 720, the method may include hingedly coupling at least one folding panel to the chest panel. At step 730, the method may include coupling at least one retention pocket to the chest panel. At step 740, the method may include coupling at least one tab to the folding panel. At step 750, a back panel is formed. At step 760, the method may include connecting a pair of adjustable shoulder straps to the chest panel and the back panel. At step 770, the method may include connecting a pair of adjustable hip belts to the chest panel and the back panel.

In some embodiments, the folding panel may be operable to be in a deployed or secured position. The at least one tab may be operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket to secure the folding panel in the secured position. The pair of adjustable shoulder straps may be operable to secure the chestpack to a torso of a user when the chestpack may be worn. The pair of adjustable hip belts may be operable to secure the chestpack to the torso of the user when the chestpack may be worn. It should be noted that not all of the above steps need be included in all embodiments, and some additional steps may be added that incorporate that which is described herein. For example, hip belts may not be present in embodiments of the method or apparatus.

FIGS. 11a and 11b illustrate an personal effect 800, and in particular, an article of clothing, and in this embodiment, a pullover-style jacket 800a. In embodiments, the jacket 800a has one or more of: sleeves 806, cuffs, 808, a collar 810, a hood 812, a back 814, and any other clothing features known in the art. A folding panel is 102 attached thereto on the front 802 of the jacket 800a. The folding panel 102 may be placed in a secured position, or may be folded away from the front 802 of the jacket 800a into a deployed position. FIG. 11a illustrates the folding panel 102 in a secured position, while FIG. 11b illustrates the folding panel 102 in a deployed position. A chest panel 104a may be provided as a base upon which the folding panel is attached. The chest panel may be a portion of bolstering material that is stiffer than the textile from which the personal effect 800 is made. In embodiments, extra layers of textile, different from or from which the personal effect 800 is made, serve as the chest panel 104. In other embodiments, the front 802 of the clothing 800 alone serves as the chest panel 104a, and provides a base upon which the folding panel 102 is attached.

FIG. 12 illustrates a personal effect 800, and in the particular embodiment shown, a jacket 800b having a front 802 comprising portions 802a, 802b that are securable together with a closure 804 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the folding panel 102 is in a secured position. As in the embodiments presented herein, the folding panel 102 is operable to fold outward into a deployed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure 804 comprises a zipper, but other closures 804 such as buttons, snaps, hook and eye, hook and loop, and other fasteners known in the art are considered for use, alone or in any combination. For brevity, the term folding panel 102 may by understood to mean a folding panel 102 alone that is secured to the front portion 802b, or alternatively, a folding panel 102 attached to a chest panel 104a further secured to the front portion 802b.

A panel fastener 894 coupled to the front 802a of the jacket 800b couples to a complimentary panel fastener (not visible) on a posterior surface 188 (not visible) of the folding panel 102, which is coupled to the opposing front 802b portion of the jacket 800b. Thus, to place the folding panel 102 approximately centered on the jacket 800b front 802, an attached region 816 of the folding panel 102, is secured to the front portion 802a, while an overhanging region 818 of the folding panel, is attachable to the opposing front portion 802b. The overhanging region 818 crosses over any closure 804 on the article of clothing 800, thus allowing the closure 804 to be closed, and the folding panel 102 to be relatively centered, if so desired. Offset placements that cross over any closure 804 are also considered. The overhanging region 818 comprises the complimentary panel fastener (not visible) on a posterior surface 188 (not visible) thereof.

In some embodiments, the attached region 816 of the folding panel 102 is secured to the front 802a, by means described herein, but clearance between the securing means and the closure 804 is provided so a user has sufficient clearance to operate the closure 804. In some embodiments, this means that the overhanging region 818 effectively begins on the side of the jacket front panel 802a where the front panel 102 is attached, as the overhang begins distally from the closure border 805 so that the closure is more readily accessible.

The folding panel 102 and chest panel 104a are constructed as described elsewhere herein and illustrated by at least portions of FIGS. 1, 5, and 7A to 9, mutatis mutandis.

Personal effects 800 include, but are not limited to, shell layers, shirts, vests, pants, other articles of clothing, in addition to backpacks, cases, bags, luggage, and other accessory items. Furthermore, the folding panel need not be on a front portion of articles of clothing, backpacks, cases, bags, luggage, and other accessory items, as any other exterior portion may serve as surface where the folding panel 102 is installed. The panel fastener 894 and complimentary panel fastener may comprise hook and loop fastener, snaps, zippers, Dual Lock™ etc. In variations of personal effects 800, it will be understood that terminology such as “chest panel,” for example, may mean a “side panel” in cases of luggage, or “leg panel” in case of pants. One skilled in the art will recognize operably analogous portions in various types of personal effects, and the terminology used herein for articles of clothing, or jackets in particular, should not be considered limiting.

The present description depicts specific examples to teach those skilled in the art how to make and use the best mode of the invention. For the purpose of teaching inventive principles, some conventional aspects have been simplified or omitted. Those skilled in the art will appreciate variations from these examples that fall within the scope of the invention.

The detailed descriptions of the above embodiments are not exhaustive descriptions of all embodiments contemplated by the inventors to be within the scope of the invention. Indeed, persons skilled in the art will recognize that certain elements of the above-described embodiments may variously be combined or eliminated to create further embodiments, and such further embodiments fall within the scope and teachings of the invention. It will also be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the above-described embodiments may be combined in whole or in part to create additional embodiments within the scope and teachings of the invention.

Thus, although specific embodiments of, and examples for, the invention are described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the invention, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. The teachings provided herein may be applied to other embodiments than those described above and shown in the accompanying figures. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is determined from the following claims.

Claims

1. A pack comprising:

a chest panel comprising at least one folding panel, wherein the folding panel is hingedly attached to the chest panel, and wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position;

at least one retention pocket defined by the chest panel;

at least one tab on the folding panel, the at least one tab operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket and to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

2. The pack of claim 1, wherein a windowed panel is coupled to a posterior side of the folding panel to define a transparent pocket comprising an inlet operable to receive an article, wherein the transparent pocket provides that the article, when placed in the transparent pocket, is visible when the folding panel is in the deployed position.

3. The pack of claim 1 further comprising:

a back panel;

a pair of adjustable shoulder straps operably connected to the chest panel and the back panel, wherein the pair of adjustable shoulder straps is operable to secure the pack to a torso of a user when the pack is worn;

a pair of adjustable hip belts connected to the chest panel and the back panel, wherein the pair of adjustable hip belts is operable to secure the pack to the torso of the user when the pack is worn.

4. The pack of claim 3, wherein the chest panel further comprises:

a first portion comprising a first anterior surface and a first posterior surface, wherein the first portion is connected to a first shoulder strap of the pair of adjustable shoulder straps, and the first portion is additionally connected to a first hip belt of the pair of adjustable hip belts, wherein the first portion comprises the folding panel hingedly attached to the first anterior surface;

a panel fastener coupled the first portion;

a second portion comprising a second anterior surface and a second posterior surface, wherein the second portion is connected to a second shoulder strap of the pair of adjustable shoulder straps, and the second portion is additionally connected to a second hip belt of the pair of adjustable hip belts;

a complimentary panel fastener coupled to an anterior surface of the second portion, wherein the panel fastener and complimentary panel fastener are operable to couple to each other to couple the first portion to the second portion.

5. The pack of claim 1, wherein the at least one tab comprises a first tab and a second tab, wherein the first and second tabs are operable to removably engage one or more retention pockets.

6. The pack of claim 1, further comprising a tab insert comprising an engagement region further defining the at least one tab, and an attachment region, wherein the attachment region is operable to be coupled to the folding panel.

7. The pack of claim 6, wherein the attachment region comprises a sewable region, and wherein the attachment region is sewn to the folding panel.

8. The pack of claim 6, wherein the engagement region comprises a thickness greater than a thickness of the attachment region.

9. The pack of claim 1, wherein the at least one tab is operable to disengage the at least one retention pocket by providing an outward force to the folding panel from the secured position.

10. The pack of claim 1, wherein the at least one tab is operable to engage, from a deployed position, the at least one retention pocket by bending the folding panel such that an engagement angle of the at least one tab, in reference to the at least one retention pocket, is positioned to penetrate an opening of the at least one retention pocket.

11. The pack of claim 1, further comprising:

a battery pocket configured to hold a battery;

electroluminescent wire sewn into at least one portion of the pack, wherein the electroluminescent wire connects to the battery, when installed in the battery pocket.

12. A method of manufacturing a pack comprising:

forming a chest panel;

hingedly coupling at least one folding panel to the chest panel, wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position;

forming at least one retention pocket on the chest panel; and

coupling at least one tab to the folding panel, wherein the at least one tab is operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

13. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 12, comprising:

coupling a windowed panel to a posterior side of the folding panel to define a transparent pocket;

forming an inlet into the transparent pocket, the transparent pocket operable to receive an article, wherein the transparent pocket provides that the article, when placed in the transparent pocket, is visible when the folding panel is in the deployed position.

14. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 12, comprising:

forming a back panel;

connecting a pair of adjustable shoulder straps to the chest panel and the back panel, wherein the pair of adjustable shoulder straps is operable to secure the pack to a torso of a user when the pack is worn;

connecting a pair of adjustable hip belts to the chest panel and the back panel, wherein the pair of adjustable hip belts is operable to secure the pack to the torso of the user when the pack is worn.

15. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 14, wherein:

the chest panel further comprises a first portion comprising a first anterior surface and a first posterior surface and a second portion comprising a second anterior surface and a second posterior surface;

coupling the first portion to a first shoulder strap of the pair of adjustable shoulder straps;

coupling the first portion to a first hip belt of the pair of adjustable hip belts;

hingedly coupling the folding panel to the first anterior surface of the first portion;

coupling a panel fastener to a first posterior surface of the first portion;

coupling complimentary panel fastener to the second anterior surface of the second portion;

coupling the second portion to a second shoulder strap of the pair of adjustable shoulder straps;

coupling the second portion to a second hip belt of the pair of adjustable hip belts, wherein the panel fastener and complimentary panel fastener are operable to engage each other and couple the first portion to the second portion.

16. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 12, comprising:

providing a first tab of the at least one tab on the folding panel;

providing a second tab of the at least one tab on the folding panel;

wherein the first tab is operable to removably engage one or more retention pockets.

17. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 12, comprising:

forming a tab insert;

defining an engagement region of the tab insert that defines the at least one tab;

defining an attachment region of the tab insert;

coupling the attachment region to the folding panel.

18. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 17, comprising:

providing a sewable region of the attachment region;

sewing the attachment region to the folding panel.

19. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 17, comprising:

forming the engagement region to comprise a thickness greater than a thickness of the attachment region.

20. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 12, comprising:

positioning the at least one tab on the chest panel to be operable to disengage the at least one retention pocket by providing an outward force to the folding panel from the secured position.

21. The method of manufacturing a pack of claim 12, comprising:

positioning the at least one tab on the chest panel operable to engage, from a deployed position, the at least one retention pocket by bending the folding panel such that an engagement angle of the at least one tab, in reference to the at least one retention pocket, is positioned to penetrate an opening of the at least one retention pocket.

22. A personal effect comprising:

at least one folding panel hingedly attached to a chest panel on an exterior of the article of clothing, wherein the folding panel is operable to be in a deployed or a secured position;

at least one retention pocket defined by the chest panel; and

at least one tab on the folding panel, the at least one tab operable to removably engage the at least one retention pocket and to secure the folding panel in the secured position.

23. The personal effect of claim 22, wherein the personal effect comprises a jacket.