Theft Or Loss Resistant Patents (Class 150/102)
  • Patent number: 11589658
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a carry (or carrying) bag is provided that includes an interior, substantially cut-resistant security panel assembly with a matrix of wires secured between or on one or more flexible material layers. Also in various embodiments, the security panel assembly may be positioned intermediate the bag outside wall and a lining of the bag, and in other embodiments, may also take the form of an expansion panel. Second or secondary locking fasteners are also provided to lock first or primary fasteners to or within the carrying bag, to provide security for compartments and pockets. A strap with one or more security cables, and various locking fasteners, may be attached to the carry bag. Methods for forming such security panel assemblies, expansion panels, and carrying straps are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: Travel Caddy, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald E. Godshaw, Du Hai, Bryce Ryan Hickman
  • Patent number: 10842249
    Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus and/or a method of a quick attachment carrier assembly of a container to enable free movement of a body of a wearer and hands-free utilization through multiple attachability options. In one aspect, a carrier attachment assembly includes an elongated flap, a first elastic band, and a second elastic band. The elongated flap has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of the elongated flap fits between a waist of a wearer and a waistband of a garment being worn by the wearer. The elongated flap is movable inside and/or outside the first elastic band and the second elastic band when the wearer manipulates the elastic bands and/or the elongated flap. The elongated flap is moved outside and/or inside to attach the container coupled with the carrier attachment assembly on the waist and/or the arm of the wearer respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: SHAWSHANK LEDZ INC.
    Inventors: Robert Vasquez, Brian Freeland
  • Patent number: 10568398
    Abstract: A binder device including a body having a first cover and a second cover directly or indirectly pivotally coupled together and at least partially defining an inner compartment therebetween. The body further includes a binding mechanism positioned in the inner compartment, a first body securing device coupled to the body, and a second body securing device coupled to the body. The binder device includes a strap including first and second strap segments. The strap is movable between a first configuration wherein the first and second strap segments are releasably coupled together to form a continuous strap that is wearable over a shoulder of a user, and a second configuration wherein the first strap segment is releasably coupled the first body securing device and the second strap segment is releasably coupled to the second body securing device such that the first and second strap segments each at least partially defines a loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: ACCO Brands Corporation
    Inventors: Richard H. Harris, Noah E. Dingler, Patrick B. Nolan, Andrew Toth
  • Patent number: 10537197
    Abstract: This invention is new because it's the first device of its kind designed to be used to prevent packages from being stolen after delivery to a consumer's house. Other methods like locking boxes or special locks either already exist, or are being developed but this device is the first locking bag for that purpose that is held securely by an extended strap that closes under a door, or secures to a physical object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Hopp
  • Patent number: 10362845
    Abstract: A clip suitable for holding money, credit cards and document is described. The clip includes features that enable use of decorative leather, cloth, rubber, polyester or polyurethane covers that can be interchanged and conceal the inner, typical metal, workings of the clip. The clip further includes features that allow control of positioning of the lever arms of the clip for ease of use as a money clip and expansion of the use as a stand for electronic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Inventor: Lawrence Ernest Antinone
  • Patent number: 9775417
    Abstract: The present invention relates to designing a shopping bag that enhances the consumer's experience while shopping. The shopping bag can be folded and fastened using a pair of buttons and bungee bands. Further, the shopping bag can be attached with a reusable wristlet pouch that can store shopping related items such as cards, coupons, cash, wallet or the like. The consumer can either use the shopping bag along with the wristlet pouch or the wristlet pouch individually. Further, the size of the wristlet pouch or the shopping bag can be altered as required by folding the pouch or the shopping bag to the required size and fastening the folded pouch or the shopping bag by using a plurality of buttons and bungee band. Further, the shopping bag and/or the wristlet pouch can be carried by using the handles provided on the shopping bag/wristlet pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Inventor: Karina De Leon
  • Patent number: 9745125
    Abstract: A method of quick and easy diaper management by providing a collar ring on the upper rim of a garbage bag, such that the collar ring snugly fits over a diaper pail. Further, the garbage bag has attachments points on its body portion so the body portion can be anchored to the diaper pail. The ring collar has receiving structures such as a notch so that a user may seal tie the garbage bag by simply twisting its neck and then insert the twisted neck into the receiving structure on the collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas E McConnell
  • Publication number: 20150083286
    Abstract: In one form, a security handbag is provided that includes an interior security panel assembly with a matrix of wires secured between a pair of material layers. The interior security panel assembly can be positioned intermediate the bag outside wall and a lining of the bag. A strap with security cable and a carbineer attachment device can be attached to the handbag. Methods for forming such security panel assemblies are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Donald E. Godshaw, Du Hai
  • Publication number: 20150027831
    Abstract: A method of preventing wireless identity theft including the step of: inserting a metallic lining into a storage bag, where the lining covers the entire interior of the storage bag. The storage bag may include at least one of a purse, handbag, backpack or briefcase. In another embodiment of the present invention, the method of preventing wireless identity theft may include inserting a metallic lining into a wallet. The present invention further includes a system for wireless identity theft prevention comprising: a mechanism to store RF enabled cards; and a metallic lining within an interior of the mechanism to store RF enable cards. The mechanism to store RF enabled cards may include at least one of a purse, backpack, briefcase or wallet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Tina Case
  • Patent number: 8919396
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pocketbook system that allows to easily mix and match how many pocketbooks, other carriers, and/or straps will suffice for that day or evenings' use while this pocketbook system is easy to use and inexpensive to manufacture. More particularly, the pocketbook system has a primary pocketbook for carrying contents, one or more removably attached secondary carrier for carrying contents, a device(s) for removably attaching the secondary carrier(s) to the inside or outside of the primary pocketbook, or for attaching the primary pocketbook and secondary carrier together, and preferably has at least one removable flexible strap(s) and a device(s) for removably attaching the strap(s) to the primary pocketbook and/or secondary carrier. The user makes use of the pocketbook system by attaching, detaching, re-attaching, exchanging, and switching different parts and/or elements to form a suitable pocketbook structure for a particular use at a particular time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Julian R. Nieves
  • Patent number: 8910679
    Abstract: A carrying bag (10) with a shoulder-strap (22) and a zipper (14) with zipper-rider (16) for closing/opening the bag. The shoulder-strap (22) is provided with a loop (24) at one end and a key-operated locking device (26) at the other end thereof. Means (36) are provided for fastening the loop (24) to an inside wall of the bag. Means (48) are provided for securing the zipper-rider (16) by the locking device (26) to an outside wall of the bag (10) for preventing the un-zipping of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: Meir Avganim
  • Publication number: 20140311635
    Abstract: A personal belongings bag designed to be worn over a user's shoulder and rest on an opposite hip is disclosed. A preferred embodiment has a thin profile and is pliable to conform to a user's body and be worn under a user's coat, thereby deterring purse snatching. A reinforced mesh strap has a similar anti-slashing purpose. The bag also has an adjustable strap provided by a plurality of snap fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Nichole MacDonald, Vanessa Lilligren
  • Patent number: 8684054
    Abstract: Handbags, including soft handbags, are easily customizable by attaching or changing handbag covers of virtually any design. The handbag covers can include, at least in part, an essentially collapsible material, and are relatively small and easily stored. Accordingly, the aesthetic and design of handbags can be easily altered without requiring the purchase of different handbags of different styles. In at least one implementation of the present invention, the handbag covers essentially envelope the base handbag. Additionally, one or more implementations of the present invention include handbag covers that attach to a base handbag via a plurality of attachment forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Miche Bag, LLC
    Inventors: Jennie Platt, Christian J. Seegmiller, Corbin B. Church
  • Patent number: 8684053
    Abstract: Handbags, including soft handbags, are easily customizable by attaching or changing handbag covers of virtually any design. The handbag covers can include, at least in part, an essentially collapsible material, and are relatively small and easily stored. Accordingly, the aesthetic and design of handbags can be easily altered without requiring the purchase of different handbags of different styles. In at least one implementation of the present invention, the handbag covers essentially envelope the base handbag. Additionally, one or more implementations of the present invention include handbag covers that attach to a base handbag via a plurality of attachment forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Miche Bag, LLC
    Inventors: Jennie Platt, Christian J. Seegmiller, Corbin B. Church
  • Patent number: 8499804
    Abstract: A bag includes a body portion defining a pouch having an open end and a strengthening rib. A strap of the bag has a first end connected to the body portion adjacent a first side of the open end, and a locking mechanism is connected to the body portion adjacent a second side of the open end. The locking mechanism is arranged to releasably engage a second end of the strap such that the bag can be connected to immovable objects to prevent theft of the bag. Further, a closing mechanism is disposed on the body portion and arranged to close the open end. The closing mechanism has a moveable head that is arranged to engage the second end of the strap when the strap is engaged with the locking mechanism, such that unauthorized access to the contents of the open end is prevented when the bag is locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Sarah Schulte
  • Publication number: 20110214787
    Abstract: A bag includes a body portion defining a pouch having an open end and a strengthening rib. A strap of the bag has a first end connected to the body portion adjacent a first side of the open end, and a locking mechanism is connected to the body portion adjacent a second side of the open end. The locking mechanism is arranged to releasably engage a second end of the strap such that the bag can be connected to immovable objects to prevent theft of the bag. Further, a closing mechanism is disposed on the body portion and arranged to close the open end. The closing mechanism has a moveable head that is arranged to engage the second end of the strap when the strap is engaged with the locking mechanism, such that unauthorized access to the contents of the open end is prevented when the bag is locked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Sarah Schulte
  • Publication number: 20100243114
    Abstract: A security handbag comprises an interior security panel assembly with a matrix of wires incorporated positioned within an exterior bag having an inside chamber. The interior security panel assembly is positioned intermediate the exterior bag outside wall and a lining of the bag. A strap with security cable and a carbineer attachment device is attached to the handbag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: Travel Caddy, Inc. d/b/a Travelon
    Inventors: Du Hai, Donald E. Godshaw
  • Publication number: 20100230018
    Abstract: A theft deterrent anti-scanning device incorporating a metallic anti-scanning and shielding layer laminated into various articles to encapsulate cards and financial documents which carry sensitive personal financial information that can be read by traditional RIFD scanning devices. However, if you incorporate a Faraday cage to block RF frequencies up to 2.4 gigahertz, the card must be entirely encapsulated for the RF shielding to be effective. A GPS tracking device may be added in order to retrieve lost or stolen information, and the entire device may be configured to become portion of a purse or an enclosable pouch. In other aspects of the present invention, an enclosable pouch of description in the application may render the pouch to be water proof, fire resistant, and to be protected from theft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Cynthia A. Nielsen
  • Publication number: 20100122560
    Abstract: A theft deterrent device for use with a bag, such as a purse, backpack or computer bag, and a method of deterring theft of an unsupervised bag. The device includes a housing with a connector attached to the housing, and a locking member with a retractable cord attached to an opposing side of the housing for use in securing the bag to a stationary object. Alternatively, the device includes a connector, attachment means and at least one locking member. The device may further include a second locking member attached to the connector through a second attachment means useful for securing a zipper on a bag to prevent easy access to the contents of the bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Victoria Marie Ricker, Martha Helen Curnow
  • Patent number: 7621160
    Abstract: A bag comprising a lockable pouch and a lockable handle is disclosed. The bag comprises a locking mechanism that secures the contents of the bag by securing a sliding fastener in place. In one embodiment, the handle and sliding fastener are both secured via a common key-operated mechanism. A handle that is removal at one end allows the handle to be placed around a stationary object as to secure the bag to that object while unattended. A single control is provided conveniently to release both the sliding fastener and the handle. The handle is comprised of a flexible yet strong material, such as a metal cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Mary Thomson, Ann L. Keller, Kathleen Parisi
  • Publication number: 20080295929
    Abstract: The invention concerns a bag (1) for transporting articles (6), for example identity papers, cheque books, train and airplane tickets, characterized in that it comprises a first flap (8) and a second flap (9) assembled together and provided with pockets or recesses, and in that it comprises at least one string (1) forming a handle, said string being adapted to slide through at least one guide means (10) provided on the first flap and connected to the second flap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Agnes Barouh
  • Publication number: 20080128058
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for deterring the theft of a fashionable evening handbag or its contents without detracting from its attractive design. The safety purse described herein provides a unique method of combining a durable yet decorative chain carrying means with a soft sided fabric purse by means of a hidden stiffener rib. The combination allows a simple and convenient way of securing valuables within the purse and also locking the purse itself to a less mobile fixture or object. The hidden stiffener rib enables the locking method in spite of the inherent flexibility of the fashion fabrics used in the purse's manufacture. The safety purse also provides a means for preventing children from accessing medications or other hazardous items that may be conveniently locked inside the inventive purse.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: Gregg A. Bodine
  • Publication number: 20070295431
    Abstract: This invention consists of a casing designed to appear like a purse or wallet. The casing also has a flap with a stud, an accompanying clasp, and a pressurized dye packet. It may also include false coins, currency and credit cards, and miscellaneous compartments, pockets and slits. To use this invention, a person simply places the casing into his or her pocket or carries the casing like a purse. If a thief steals the casing, the dye packet automatically discharges when the flap is opened separating the stud from the clasp. The indelible red dye marks the thief's body and/or clothing for later identification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventor: Joseph Mullen
  • Patent number: 7300206
    Abstract: A self-emptying bag having a quick coupling buckle assembly, in particular for shoulder-strap, has a buckle assembly (4) comprised of two parts (40, 41) that are respectively fixed to two sections (201, 202) of a shoulder-strap (200) of a bag so that a snatch on the bag, through the flexible transmission (30), operates the release mechanism and causes the expandable sack to be inflated to upset outside the contents in the bag. Flexible transmission (30) is connected to a coupling member (91) movable inside the first part (40) of the buckle assembly (4). The two parts of buckle are formed in such a way that first the second part (41) can be detached from the first part (40), and then the second part (41) can be detached from the coupling member (91) after a traction has been exerted on the coupling member (91).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Benedetto Fedeli
  • Publication number: 20070240798
    Abstract: A personal property carrying device, such as a handbag, or a suitcase including a body and a strap. The strap being lockable to the body by use of a locking device to prevent theft of the personal property carrying device. A zipper on the top of the bag is also lockable to the locking device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Publication date: October 18, 2007
    Inventor: Daniel Gary Bihler
  • Patent number: 7277013
    Abstract: A robbery-preventing and body-protecting handbag includes a bag body, an automatic disengaging device, a circuit control device, a buzzer and a shoulder strap. The automatic disengaging device is installed between the bag body and the shoulder strap, having separable magnetic attraction members combined with the end of the shoulder strap and stationary magnetic attraction members combined with the bag body. The stationary magnetic attraction members are connected with the circuit control device and the buzzer to form an automatic alarm circuit. When the shoulder strap is forcefully dragged by a robber or by a user herself, the separable magnetic attraction members will be disengaged from the stationary magnetic attraction members and the circuit control device will simultaneously start the buzzer to scare the robber away, ensuring safety of the handbag and the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventor: Man-Sheng Yen
  • Patent number: 7059371
    Abstract: A security handbag system comprising a purse with a detachable portion removably coupled to the side of the purse and attached to the waist of a user. The detachable portion has pockets to hold the users valuables including cash, credit cards, defensive chemical spray and cellular phone. Upon extraordinary pulling away of the purse, the detachable portion remains attached to the user and uncouples from the purse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventor: Michael J. Renn
  • Patent number: 6925691
    Abstract: An ergonomic, non-recoiling belt worn lower abdominal pouch stays securely in place without bouncing and recoiling, and is secure from theft. The lower abdominal pouch includes a front panel joined at a bottom edge thereof and along two side edges to a rear panel, forming an open pocket therebetween with a top entry. Each panel is made of a flexible fabric or other synthetic or natural substrate material, such as canvas, leather and the like. The lower abdominal pouch is carried upon the wearer by being supported by the wearer's belt, which belt slides into a rear wall of the lower abdominal pouch, through a vertically extending button hole slot thereof and exits at a second button hole slot of a preferable outer rear wall in front of a preferable inner rear wall of the rear panel, thereby optionally providing a seal between the outer rear wall having the two open button hole slots for accommodating the user's belt therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Susan Bristel
  • Patent number: 6695022
    Abstract: A wallet (10) includes a pocket portion (12) defining a front panel (14), a rear panel (16), a bottom (18), side edges (20), (22), an open top (24), and a flap portion (26) that extends from the rear panel (16) for folding over the open top (24) to engage the front panel (14). The wallet (10) comprises male and female fasteners for engaging the flap portion (26) with the front panel (14). The wallet (10) includes a tether (32) that extends from the rear panel (16) of the pocket portion (12). The tether (32) includes a plurality of fasteners (34), (36), (38) spaced from one another for folding the tether (32) upon itself to define loops of different sizes, i.e. different configurations for various attachments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: William Morehead
  • Publication number: 20030150536
    Abstract: A wallet (10) includes a pocket portion (12) defining a front panel (14), a rear panel (16), a bottom (18), side edges (20), (22), an open top (24), and a flap portion (26) that extends from the rear panel (16) for folding over the open top (24) to engage the front panel (14). The wallet (10) comprises male and female fasteners for engaging the flap portion (26) with the front panel (14). The wallet (10) includes a tether (32) that extends from the rear panel (16) of the pocket portion (12). The tether (32) includes a plurality of fasteners (34), (36), (38) spaced from one another for folding the tether (32) upon itself to define loops of different sizes, i.e. different configurations for various attachments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: William Morehead
  • Patent number: 6494241
    Abstract: A bridal accessory apparatus is comprised of an enclosure capable of holding therein important personal items such as cosmetics, facial tissues and mints in a secure fashion and further being capable of removable attachment to conventional bridal bouquet holders of the prior art. The enclosure is sized to remain hidden behind the head member of such bouquet holders when suspended from the neck region thereof using a variety of attachment means. Thusly positioned, the subject apparatus is relatively hidden from view by wedding guests and photographers and may be inconspicuously carried by members of the bridal party during the wedding ceremony, photograph sessions, and other critical time periods during the wedding day. Means for preventing axial displacement of the enclosure along the handle of the bouquet holder are also described. In another embodiment, the bouquet holder itself is modified to retain those items of importance to the bridal party.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Inventors: Donna Biancaniello, Christine Galante, Mary Harden
  • Patent number: 6340235
    Abstract: An adaptable electric accessory system comprising a receptacle having an interior compartment, an illumination apparatus, and a power source for supplying power to the apparatus. The system may be provided with an insert removably positioned in the interior compartment of the receptacle. The illumination apparatus may be mounted on the insert or container for illuminating the insert. A charging apparatus may be provided for providing power to the power source for recharging the power source and removable electric devices. The receptacle may include a flexible strap with a pair of forcible release assemblies each being connected between one of the ends of the strap and the receptacle for detecting a forcible removal of the receptacle from the person of the user. A timer mechanism may be provided for causing illumination of the illumination apparatus for a predetermined period of time upon the closing of an activating switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Inventor: Jimmy H. Bryan
  • Patent number: 6283182
    Abstract: Ejection device to expel objects from the inside of a bag in the event of a bag-snatching, the bag comprising an expandable sack below a lining (400), a compressed gas feeder (2) including an elongated housing (20) operatively connected to the expandable sack (1) and carrying, in sequence, a small gas bottle (6), a piercing bit (72), a release mechanism (8), a relative control means (3) with a Bowden cable transmission (30) connected to a handle (50) through a junction member (51) in two parts. A snatch, being transmitted to the handle (50), operates the release mechanism (8) and causes the expandable sack to be inflated (1) and then the two parts of the junction member (51) to be separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Benedetto Fedeli
  • Patent number: 6155715
    Abstract: A durable, water-resistant, locking pouch to safeguard package or parcel deliveries, with connected cable and anchor clamp. The cable provides a means to secure the pouch from under or behind a fixture such as a door. An anchor clamp, attached to the end of the cable furthest from the pouch, serves either as an anchor fastened to or placed behind a door, and prevents the device and its pouch with package/parcel contents from being dislodged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventors: Kevin Lake, Paul J. Gammarano, William A. Reid
  • Patent number: 6113268
    Abstract: A carrying case is provided including a base with an open top. Also included is a top assembly have a top face with a downwardly extending peripheral lip integrally coupled thereto and depending therefrom for defining an interior space and an open bottom with a lower peripheral edge. The lower peripheral edge of the top assembly is hingably coupled to the base. The top assembly further includes a cover for selectively closing the interior space thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: George W. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6032709
    Abstract: A self-emptying handbag having a bag portion for carrying articles, a strap attached to the bag for carrying purposes, an expandable sack carried within the bag portion and having a volume when expanded greater than the volume of the bag portion, and an arrangement for expanding the expandable sack when the strap attached to the bag is suddenly pulled so that the articles therein are ejected from the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Benedetto Fedeli
  • Patent number: 5887770
    Abstract: A multiple use pack is designed for convenience, security and optimal use of space and structures which can be sued as a waist pack, a day backpack or a shoulder bag. A back face of the waist pack slides by means of a long belt loop on a removable, adjustable belt with quick release buckles allowing the waist pack to serve as a fanny pack/belly pack. The waist pack converts into a day backpack by opening a zippered main compartment posterior to the waist pack's main storage compartment. The zipper is stopped by a strip of fabric located in the middle bottom of the waist pack's main storage compartment connected to the middle bottom of the back face of the waist pack. The connecting fabric strip becomes a combined zipper stop and weight-bearing hinge which keeps the zipper slider from being pulled apart by the weight of items stored in the pack when used in the day backpack mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: John F. Covell
  • Patent number: 5762169
    Abstract: An auxiliary luggage attachment and security tether mechanism secure an auxiliary luggage case to a main luggage case for support on and by an exterior surface of a main luggage case, and secure at least the main luggage case to an object. The attachment mechanism comprises a clutch mechanism, an elongated flexible strap having an inner end fixably attached to the clutch mechanism and the outer end attached to a hook, the clutch mechanism being biased to pull the flexible strap onto the clutch mechanism and retract the hook to the clutch mechanism. A lid is pivotally mounted adjacent to the clutch mechanism and has a selectively open position where the hook and strap are accessible, and a selectively closed position where the lid covers the clutch mechanism and the strap or hook to the extent the strap is retracted onto the clutch mechanism. The lid engages the clutch mechanism in the open position to release the clutch mechanism whereby the strap can be extended from the clutch mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Samsonite Corporation
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Deliman, Daniel G. Elles, David W. Fiddes, James S. Gregg, Rik Hillaert, William L. King, Jon C. Nordmark, Roger Pedlar, Robert M. Tesman, Carlo Felice Zezza, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5678620
    Abstract: A pouch useful for storage of valuables usually carried by a traveller. The pouch is designed for insertion into a suitable pocket of the traveller and an extending flap of said pouch overlaps the folded pouch and folds down over the exterior surface of the pocket to be secured to the surface by a button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Inventor: Edward C. Mayled
  • Patent number: 5642095
    Abstract: An alarm system is provided for a card shaped object comprising a holder for the card shaped object and a detecting apparatus for detecting the absence of the card shaped object from the holder and a device transmitter. The transmitter device sends a signal to a component remote from the holder and a transmitter device. The transmitter device sends a signal to a component remote from the holder which contains a receiver of the signal and an adjustable alarm. A resettable timer is positioned either in the holder or in the component remote from the holder so that, after a set time period, is activated in response to the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Assignee: Wellesley Research Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Russel P. Cook
  • Patent number: 5551496
    Abstract: A concealable wallet comprising a wallet member having a pocket for storing items and an attachment strap for securely attaching the wallet member to the garment while in use. The pocket is accessible through a sealable opening and is sized to allow flat rectangular objects such as a stack of currency to be stored therein. The wallet member may include a flap section, having a hook and pile type fastener attached thereto, located adjacent the sealable opening; and a second section of hook and pile type fastener attached to the sidewall near the opening in a manner such that the flap may be secured over the sealable opening by connecting the two sections of hook and pile fastener. The attachment strap is elongated and attached to the wallet member along its midsection. Both ends of the attachment strap extend out past the wallet member. One of the ends has an adjustable length fastening mechanism attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Inventor: Hugh H. Gray, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5542590
    Abstract: The present invention contemplates an articles storage pouch designed to attach to an automobiles existing safety-belt hardware for securing articles thereby deterring theft and preventing the enclosed articles from shifting about the passenger compartment. The invention comprises a storage pouch for stowing articles adjacent to a driver on an automobile seat. The pouch is fabricated from a flexible durable material and incorporates an opening, defined by a rigid frame member, for preventing unwanted access to the contents when the storage pouch is closed. One opening member incorporates a slot through which a closure strap, attached at one end to the opposing opening member may be inserted for drawing the pouch opening closed. The closure strap terminates in a male seat-belt connector for engaging a female seat-belt connector which is anchored to the automobile frame thereby securing the pouch on the car seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Inventor: Shirley L. Pfitzenmaier
  • Patent number: 5318084
    Abstract: A shoulder strap with integral organizer enclosure for attachment to luggage and the like. The enclosure has several zippered compartments for holding personal items which are frequently needed during travel. When worn over the shoulder, the enclosure is disposed to one side of the a wearer's chest which makes the enclosure easily accessible to the wearer without requiring removal of the strap from the shoulder, even if the wearer has only one free hand. Additionally, the enclosure's location over the chest allows the user to easily monitor the pocket and its contents for peace of mind. The shoulder strap with integral organizer enclosure can also be worn around the waist as a utility pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Inventor: William S. Jackson
  • Patent number: 5314102
    Abstract: A handbag including various fasteners which enable the handbag to be unfastened and reassembled so that it can be worn by the user, for example around the ankle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Inventor: Melinda S. Roy
  • Patent number: 5285833
    Abstract: A purse designed to be worn by an individual, the purse being specifically designed to reduce the possibility of the purse being snatched away from the individual, the purse including a panel of material having a fold along which the panel of material is folded to create an interior surface of the panel of material and an exterior surface of the panel of material, the interior surface of the panel of material being substantially concealed when the panel of material is in a folded state. At least one interior pocket is formed on the interior surface of the panel of material, and a securement device is provided for securing the panel of material to the individual, the securement device being located on the panel of material substantially adjacent the fold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Inventor: Susan I. Haxby
  • Patent number: 5197525
    Abstract: A method and means for protecting valuables is disclosed. An anti-theft handbag is comprised of multiple segments which separate upon extraordinary pulling. A first segment is detachably secured to a second segment via a break-away pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Inventor: Joseph L. Cantor
  • Patent number: 5127536
    Abstract: An expandable carrying bag having a front surface, a rear surface, two side surfaces and an open top. The bag is characterized by at least one open loop on at least one surface of said bag. The loop is of a size sufficient to accommodate insertion of a forearm therein. In use, a forearm is inserted into the loops and the bag is pressed against the body. In this way, the weight of the load within the bag is partially displaced from the bag to the forearm thereby reducing stress on the lower back muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Inventors: Susan Cohen, Lorraine Arnfeld
  • Patent number: 5061086
    Abstract: A flexible security pouch has a wide upper mouth, a front face, a back face, a bottom and two foldable lateral faces. The pouch is provided with a foldable flap at the upper margin of the back face and a pair of straps extending laterally in opposite directions from the side margins of the back face adjacent the flap. A pair of lateral extensions are articulatedly connected to opposite ends of the flap and to adjacent straps. The straps carry labels adjacent their distal ends and are longer than half the width of the pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Jose A. Vallerga
  • Patent number: 5005111
    Abstract: A light assembly is used in a purse and is releasably attached to one inside surface of such purse by a hook-and-loop fastener. The light includes a switch which automatically turns on the light as soon as the purse is opened, and includes an alarm system that generates an audible signal after a pre-set time interval after the purse is opened unless the alarm is de-activated manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Inventor: Chuck Teal
  • Patent number: 4995436
    Abstract: A method and means of safely securing valuables in the form of a break-away handbag. Removable reattachable adjacent bag segments are mounted to each other by means of snaps, VELCRO or the like. One or more bag segments act as a decoy and are positioned facing out and away from the body of the handbag holder while other adjacently placed bag segments designed to hold valuables are positioned more proximate to or up against the handbag holder's body. A shoulder strap is attached to a decoy bag segment and is hung over the user's shoulder. Cavities created between each of the adjacent bag segments are capable of enveloping the handbag holder's hand. When an extraordinary pulling force is exerted upon a decoy bag segment or segments, they will separate from the adjacent valuables bag segment or segments and said valuables bag segment or segments will be retained against or between the handbag holder's hand and body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Inventor: Joseph L. Cantor