Removable Compartment Or Compartment-forming Member Patents (Class 190/110)
  • Patent number: 6283183
    Abstract: The present invention provides a handbag equipped with a zipper for opening a section of the bag located between the front and interior walls thereof. When this section of the bag is unzipped, the faces of said front and interior walls are exposed and permit a user to obtain various handbag items from pockets attached to said faces. The bag may be carried in the hand or over the shoulder as a result of a loop and ring arrangement which are connected by an adjustable strap and buckle arrangement. Other sections of the bag contain loop and ring arrangements for rapidly obtaining keys, a pager, a cosmetic pouch or the like. By virtue of the present invention, all contents of the inventive bag can be easily and quickly accessed by a user with one easy motion, while the bag is on or off his shoulder, without placing the bag on a flat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Arline Cooper
  • Patent number: 6283260
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a storage device for use with a carrying case, and having an aperture therein adapted to receive a handle or strap of the carrying case. The device may also have attachment devices enabling the device to be carried separate from the carrying case if desired. Side body portions of the device have compartments that are adapted to receive, store, and carry items of various sizes. These compartments may be lined with material to protect or enhance the items contained therein. Optional straps may extend from the bottom edges of the side portions in order to attach and secure the device onto a carrying case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Yasuda, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20010015248
    Abstract: An interchangeable carrying bag system and method is provided having an inner bag, an outer bag, a first fastening structure attached to the inner surface of the outer bag and to the outer surface of the inner bag and at least one piece of decorative material reversibly attachable to the outer surface of the inner bag when the inner bag is used independently of the outer bag. In addition, a second fastening structure can be attached to the inner bag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Publication date: August 23, 2001
    Inventor: Susan Mary McCreery
  • Patent number: 6257381
    Abstract: Case combination has a main portion and an accessory portion, which can be connected together side by side. The main and accessory portions can also be used separated from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Consel Kofferloesungen GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Hermann Harfst
  • Patent number: 6244400
    Abstract: A carrying case having first and second sides and sheets of hook and loop fastener material (Velcro) extending along each of the first and second sides. A business article (e.g. a writing pad) having a piece of hook and loop fastener material is detachably connected to the sheet of hook and loop fastener material at one side of the carrying case. A man's or woman's purse having pieces of hook and loop fastener material on the exterior sides thereof is detachably connected to the sheet of hook and loop material at the second side of the carrying case. The purse also has hook and loop fastener material extending along the interior sides. A plurality of personal and business modules (e.g. a key case, eye glasses, business card holder, etc.) having pieces of hook and loop fastener material are selectively organized and detachably connected to the hook and hoop fastener material at the interior sides of the purse so as to be readily visible and accessible to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Susan D. Bowers
  • Patent number: 6237766
    Abstract: A carrying case for electronic equipment, such as a portable computer, includes back, front, top, bottom and side walls defining an interior including a compartment for receiving electronic equipment defined between a wall surface and a floating panel of the carrying case. The floating panel is selectively movable linearly toward and away from the wall surface to adjust the size of the compartment in accordance with the size of the electronic equipment received therein. A securing mechanism within the interior resiliently biases the floating panel toward the wall surface and provides a shock or impact absorbing effect for the electronic equipment. The carrying case has a handle including first and second handle portions rotatable between an engaged position wherein the handle portions are in abutment and a disengaged position wherein the handle portions are separated from one another. The first and second handle portions are configured to automatically matingly engage one another when rotated into abutment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Targus Group International
    Inventor: W. Dale Hollingsworth
  • Patent number: 6237660
    Abstract: A purse system comprising two or more decorative purse bodies each with at least one removable transparent, multiple compartment inner purse lining which is positionable within an interior bottom portion of each of the decorative purse bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Mavis L. Giardino
  • Patent number: 6213268
    Abstract: The present invention provides a utility bag for carrying small and minute items and larger items such as medium size tools and the like from place to place in safety. The bag has a generally rectangular first compartment with has an opening therein and contains at least one removable tray and a second substantially pocketbook shaped compartment. A plurality of pockets are attached to the outside perimeter of the first compartment, except for the wall containing the opening. Using the bag of the present invention, the user can carry tools of various kinds and sizes and the like in the second compartment and in the pockets surrounding the first compartment and small/minute items in the tray located within the first compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Michael Dancyger
  • Patent number: 6213267
    Abstract: A portable luggage carrying case having a detachable carry tote portion capable of housing a lap-top computer, and various computer accessories. The detachable carry tote is joined to the main portion of the luggage enclosure via a zipper situated around the periphery of the main portion and the carry tote. Once separated from the main portion, the carry tote, comprised of an upper and a lower section joined together along its adjacent edges via material along the inner-facing surface of each section, can be folded, and a securing zipper used to secure the upper and lower portions to each other in a face-to-face configuration. The carry tote, with lap-top computer stored within one of its zippered pouches, can now be utilized separately and independently from the main portion of the luggage enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Travelpro International, Inc.
    Inventor: Jacqueline N. Miller
  • Patent number: 6183133
    Abstract: A multipocket carrying case, comprises a primary shell of pliable material formed of a pair of substantially identical half shells connected together for hinging along a common side and forming a primary receptacle, each half shell formed of a rectangular back panel with a bottom panel, a top panel and two end panels secured along the periphery of the back panel forming a primary receptacle, a multipocket panel assembly secured to the back panel and comprising a zig zag or pleated folded panel forming overlapping front and back folds, the back folds secured to a back panel forming a plurality of pockets having spaces therebetween, and a closure panel secured along an edge to the back panel to thereby overlap and close the plurality of pockets. Another embodiment of the carrying case comprises an expandable and adjustable case for carrying many differing types of items in an organized fashion, and particularly suited for carrying a few clothing items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventor: DeAnna Roegner
  • Patent number: 6179102
    Abstract: A travel organizer system is provided including an intermediate portion with a flexible carrying strap mounted thereon. A pair of side portions are hingably coupled to the intermediate portion each with a plurality of compartments formed therein for carrying various travel related items therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventors: Twyna Weber, Nancy L. Weber
  • Patent number: 6173839
    Abstract: A collapsible, soft-sided organizer has a rigid, water proof base with fabric side walls and lid. A removable internal frame provides support for a cutting board, which also functions as a stable work surface. The lid includes a gusset to define a gear loft and water basin. A plurality of movable internal dividers facilitates the creation of smaller internal compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Montane, Inc.
    Inventors: William M. Dieter, Martha B. Koerner, Martin H. Phipps, Nicholas J. Sichenzia, Dana L. Canfield, Laurie M. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 6135253
    Abstract: A suitcase is provided with a compressive liner encapsulating an air tight packing chamber and having a sealable opening to allow placement and removal of clothing and other articles within the packing chamber. In a relaxed state, the volume of the packing chamber is substantially greater than the volume of the suitcase interior, thereby enlarging the available packing space. When the liner is filled and sealed closed, air is withdrawn from the packing chamber by a motorized vacuum pump, causing the liner to collapse and compress the contents, thereby reducing the volume of the packing chamber to a size which fits within the closed suitcase. A one-way valve holds the vacuum within the chamber, maintaining the liner in the collapsed state until the opening is unsealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventors: Ira B. Weissman, Helaine R. Weissman
  • Patent number: 6129254
    Abstract: A backpack either conventional or of the rolling type having an integrated flexible filing system for storing books, folders, files, papers, and other paraphernalia. The flexible filing system is comprised of a plurality of semi-rigid dividers securely attached to a back wall or panel in the main compartment of the backpack. The dividers are attached to a flexible side wall to allow the system to expand or collapse as needed. Optional features include graduated dividers that are progressively shorter from rear to back to facilitate access to the compartments. An additional optional feature is to make the top edges of the dividers at an oblique angle to facilitate viewing of materials sorted or stored in the compartments formed by the expandable file system. The expandable file systems can also be permanently attached to the back panel of a backpack or could be removable by using a hook and loop fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Travelers Club Luggage, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Yu
  • Patent number: 6116418
    Abstract: A pair of complementary securement members are provided for securing an article of portable equipment, such as a laptop or palm held computer, within a portable carrying case. Since the thickness of the securement member attached to the base of the portable computer may interfere with the operation of non-slip frictional members which conventionally depend from the base of the portable computer, supplemental frictional members are provided in conjunction with the securement member. The supplemental frictional members project beyond the remaining portion of the securement member to engage a supporting surface (e.g., table or desk) when the portable computer is removed from its portable carrying case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Outrigger, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard D. Sadow
  • Patent number: 6098769
    Abstract: A rolling luggage with a notebook carrier bag detachably attached to a front side of the rolling luggage, wherein a first fastening means is secured at a top side of said rolling luggage. The notebook carrier bag includes a base supporting panel, a first and a second carrying container provided on an outer surface of the base supporting panel, a handle means for easy holding, and a first connector secured to one end of the notebook carrier bag for detachably connecting with the first fastening means so as to combine the notebook carrier bag with the rolling luggage to form a single piece of luggage during traveling and transportation. Normally, the notebook carrier bag can be detached from the rolling luggage. Also, since the first carrying container and the second carrying container are foldably connected together, the first carrying container and the second carrying container can be folded up overlappedly to form an independent notebook carrier bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Sumdex Inc.
    Inventor: Elton Yen
  • Patent number: 6095213
    Abstract: An organizing case for articles that can be carried as a clutch, or small shoulder bag, or in a purse. The carrying case comprises a generally rectangular primary panel having an inner and an outer face that is folded along a selected transverse line forming a front panel and a back panel with the inner face defining a primary receptacle. A pocket assembly and an inner mounting panel--having a mirror mounted on one face, and a plurality of attachment devices for detachably mounting a plurality of items--are pivotally mounted inside the primary receptacle. A removable cover--stowable in the case--is shaped to envelop the case so that the case can be carried as a purse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventor: DeAnna Roegner
  • Patent number: 6070702
    Abstract: A portable device for the storage of items within a frame with two open ends. The two open ends may be removably closed with covers removably attached to the frame. A first storage device moveable between a first position and a second position is configured to contain items placed therein. The first position is a closed position, wherein the first storage device extends generally completely within the frame. The second position is a open position, wherein the storage device extends at least partially outside the frame. A second storage device is connected to the frame and is slidable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the second storage device extends generally completely within the frame. In the second position, the second storage device extends at least partially outward from the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Vandermolen B.V.
    Inventor: Johannes Martinus Petrus Der Kinderen
  • Patent number: 6012557
    Abstract: A carry bag system in which the handle of a briefcase, attache case, small suitcase, or overnight bag, for example, fits through an elongated slot on the flap of an accessory bag having one or more compartments for storing articles placed therein, with the accessory bag draping over one of the sides while being transported about as a single unit by virtue of the carry handle. A series of straps and buckle-snap arrangements are described to further secure the accessory bag with the main carrying unit, and with a second accessory bag carried by the briefcase, attache case, small suitcase or overnight bag in similar manner--with either or both accessory bags being additionally detachable from the combination to allow independent carrying thereof to conferences, meetings and seminars without having to carry the entire combination together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: Michael J. Derelanko
  • Patent number: 6009995
    Abstract: A baseball equipment bag having an elongated bag portion of flexible material and a substantially planar interior shelf within the elongated bag portion. The interior shelf is permanently secured to the elongated bag portion. A removable panel is capable of being removed to substantially fully expose the interior shelf. The removable panel can be removed from the bag to facilitate the application of commercial printing thereon. The equipment bag includes a bat compartment which allows a bat to be accessed from either of two openings. The equipment bag is capable of collapsing to a substantially flat configuration when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Hillerich & Bradsby Company
    Inventor: Michael W. Speck
  • Patent number: 6000509
    Abstract: A suitcase is provided having compartments for storing various types of articles in the distinct compartments. Preferably, the compartments are implemented to store in one compartment toiletries and/or cosmetics and, in the other compartment, articles of clothing or the like. In one of the compartments, removable inserts are provided having separate sub-compartments or fastening mechanisms for holding various articles and the like. The inserts are removable from the compartment and include straps for hanging the same for ready access to the articles held by the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Kingport International Corporation
    Inventor: Claudia Chisholm
  • Patent number: 5996749
    Abstract: There is provided a system for forming compartments in a carrying case or attache case to stow various items, such as a laptop or notebook computer. The system comprises a plurality of support bars disposed along the inner walls of the carrying case and a plurality of partition bars coupled to the frame. Each support bar has a pair of substantially parallel rails disposed at its upper side and a longitudinal surface disposed at its lateral side. The parallel rails form an equidistant channel therebetween. Each partition bar that has an end portion for coupling to a respective support bar. The end portion has an appendage that is disposed in the channel of the support bar and a planar end surface that is positioned adjacent to the longitudinal surface of the support bar. Accordingly, each elongated partition bar subdivides the housing and forms a compartment on either side of the partition bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Showcase Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Alan Hillsberg, Robert Stein
  • Patent number: 5984063
    Abstract: A garment separator having a generally rectangularly shaped section of taffeta, the taffeta having an upper strip of nylon tape and a lower strip of nylon tape, and the upper strip of nylon tape fitted to mate with a nylon tape affixed to a receptor zone of a garment carrier. A method of reducing wrinkling of garments in a garment carrying device including the steps of adapting the garment carrying device with a nylon tape in a receptor zone, placing a first garment in the garment carrying device, placing a generally rectangularly shaped taffeta section over the first garment, the taffeta section having a strip of nylon tape, attaching the taffeta section to the receptor zone by engaging the nylon tape of the receptor zone with the nylon tape of the taffeta section, placing a second garment over the taffeta section, and closing the garment carrying device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventors: Robert N. Wallace III, Aseniah M. Thompson-Wallace
  • Patent number: 5983969
    Abstract: A split insert pair for a purse is made of fabric which is stiffer at the outside walls and less stiff at the end walls and which has an upper opening which is capable of either being opened wide or held in closed position by fasteners located on opposite sides of the upper opening. Various upwardly opening pockets are situated on the inside and outside surfaces of the insert walls to receive the usual articles carried in a purse. An outside wall on each of the inserts of the pair is provided with matching patterns of releasable fasteners, so the pair of inserts is useable as a unitary joined pair or as separate inserts which may be placed in separate purse compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Hazel T. Morgan
  • Patent number: 5971119
    Abstract: A luggage case includes a primary case provided with a plurality of male fasteners each including a base and a plug, the base being riveted on the primary case and having a passage going through the primary case, and a secondary case provided with a plurality of female fasteners riveted on the secondary case, each of the female fasteners having a recess adapted to receive the plug, a neck portion having two holes at two opposite sides thereof, and two positioning arms at the two opposite sides thereof each having a protuberance engageable with the holes of the neck portion, whereby the secondary case can be easily engaged or disengaged from the primary case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Chen Lung Chi
  • Patent number: 5947241
    Abstract: Joinable, soft-sided containers (10) include individual containers (12, 14) each having a compartment (20, 22). Individual containers (12, 14) have handle portions (16, 18) extending outwardly therefrom which each include, in turn, a first panel (50, 52) and a second panel (54, 56). Each first panel (50, 52) has an opening (60, 62) therein that may serve as a handle when the individual containers (12, 14) are used individually. The containers (12, 14) may be configured into a saddlebag configuration by joining the second panels (54, 56) such that openings (64, 66) in the second panels (54, 56) align to form a single opening that may be placed over a handle (76) of a briefcase (74). The individual containers (12, 14) may also be configured into a single container (80) having two compartments (20, 22) by joining the rear walls (24, 26) of the containers (12, 14) and joining the first panels (50, 52) such that the opening (60, 62) in the first panels (50, 52) align and form a single handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Incorporated
    Inventor: Kevin Rausch
  • Patent number: 5944155
    Abstract: A luggage piece having a detachable tote bag is provided. The luggage piece includes a plurality of sides that enclose a main luggage compartment. The tote bag is secured to the exterior of one of the sides by a zipper. One half of the zipper is secured to a portion of the outer perimeter of the luggage piece side while the other half of the zipper is secured to the outer perimeter of a portion of the tote bag. The top of the tote bag remains unzipped to defining an opening, and can be secured by a snap. A pair of loop handles are located at the opening and can be stowed inside the tote bag when it is attached to the luggage piece. A removable hook is provided to a top side of the luggage piece for hanging the handles therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: The Gem Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Rebecca T. Geary
  • Patent number: 5911262
    Abstract: A new handbag for allowing a user to organize and store the contents of a purse so that the contents may be easily transferred between variously designed and colored handbags. The inventive device includes an inner handbag disposed within an outer handbag. The inner handbag includes an inner shell with front and rear storage flaps pivotally coupled thereto. The inner shell defines an inner compartment for holding items and the front and rear storage flaps have loops, pockets, and pouches for holding items such as cosmetics, credit cards, and checkbooks. The outer handbag includes an outer shell and a closure flap. The inner shell is disposed within the main compartment of the outer shell. The front storage flap is inserted through a front slot in the front panel of the outer shell. Similarly, the rear storage flap is inserted through a rear slot in the rear panel of the outer shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Inventor: Elyse A. Steinhart
  • Patent number: 5906290
    Abstract: A insulated container adapted for insulating temperature sensitive contents from the surrounding environment. The container can have: a body including a sidewall section, a top section and a bottom section having at least one of an open-top and open-wall; sidewall; a door pivotably connected to the body for providing an open position for loading and unloading and a closed position for insulating contents therin, defining an enclosure; and a temperature control floater for sealing temperatures in the enclosure and/or deviding the enclosure into two individual comartments, connectable to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventor: Robert W. Haberkorn
  • Patent number: 5896962
    Abstract: A stowage system particularly for space applications comprises a flight bag (10), a backpack (66), a backpack adapter plate (96), and a pressurized stowage rack (104). The flight bag (10) is fabricated of a Kevlar/Nomex fabric, and its lid (18) includes an integral transparent panel (22) so that the contents of the bag may be readily identifiable without opening the bag. Beneath the lid (18) is a payload restraint net (24) which is removably attached to the interior liner of the bag to restrain small stowage items. The mesh comprising the net preferably includes one or more access slits (28) for accessing the interior of the case without removing the net and thereby risking loss of contents from the bag. The flight bag (10) also includes a plurality of hook and loop (VELCRO.RTM.) patches (30) about its periphery so that it may be collapsed upon itself for storage when not in use, and may additionally be rafted or trained to other flight bags if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: McDonnell Douglas Aerospace
    Inventors: David A. Smith, Bruce T. LaVerde, Duane E. Lee, Alex H. Pest, Roger M. Spickard, J. Malcolm Tagg
  • Patent number: 5897209
    Abstract: A multipocketed carrying case, comprises a primary shell of pliable material formed of a pair of substantially identical half shells connected together for hinging along a common side and forming a primary receptacle, each half shell formed of a rectangular back panel with a bottom panel, a top panel and two end panels secured along the periphery of the back panel forming a primary receptacle, a multi-pocket panel assembly secured to the back panel and comprising a zig zag folded panel forming overlapping front and back folds, the back folds secured to a back panel forming a plurality of pockets having spaces therebetween, and a closure panel secured along an edge to the back panel to thereby overlap and close the plurality of pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: DeAnna Roegner
  • Patent number: 5881850
    Abstract: A removable self-supporting article organizer assembly contains at least one panel having pockets for storing articles such as pens, business cards, floppy disks, papers and the like and is sized to fit within a compartment in a carrying case. The article organizer assembly may be constructed from two or more spaced panels joined by flexible side walls and end walls defining further pockets for containing files. A hinged flap attached to one of the panels of the article organizer provides a means for supporting the article organizer in a generally upright position when the article organizer is removed from the carrying case. A carrying case adapted to contain the article organizer has a pocket on an internal wall of the carrying case within the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventor: Douglas H. Murdoch
  • Patent number: 5873504
    Abstract: A carrying bag (20) formed of flexible material includes an upper compartment (86) and a lower compartment (90) separated by a dividing wall (86). A zippered closure (27) extending around three sides of the bag allows access to the lower compartment and permits the upper compartment to be pivoted away from the lower compartment. The lower compartment includes a unitary, divided tray (84) for storing articles therein. A detachable article, such as a wearable pouch (42), is releasably attached to one side of the bag by means of quick-release clip locks (30). The pouch includes a pocket (65) for storing a strap assembly (68, 70) which may be deployed around the waist of a user to convert the pouch to a fanny pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Edmund L. Farmer
  • Patent number: 5865233
    Abstract: An organizing case for articles to be carried in a purse, comprises a primary panel of pliable material, the panel being of a generally rectangular configuration having an inner face and outer face and foldable along a selected line transverse of the primary panel forming a front panel and a back panel defining a primary receptacle, the back panel having an inner face, a plurality of straps and loops on the inner face for mounting a plurality of articles, a pocket assembly inside the primary receptacle, the pocket comprising a back pocket panel and a front pocket panel secured together along a bottom inside edges forming a receptacle, and an inner mounting panel pivotally mounted to the primary panel and having a opposite faces, a mirror mounted on one of the faces, and a plurality of attachment devices for detachably mounting a plurality of selected items such as cosmetics upon each of the faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: DeAnna Roegner
  • Patent number: 5857568
    Abstract: A briefcase adapter for carrying a portable computer in a briefcase comprising a panel for partitioning the briefcase into an upper and a lower compartment and an adjustable frame including a front frame member and a rear frame member held in substantially parallel spaced relationship relative to each other by a pair of side frame members disposed in substantially parallel spaced relationship to each other and disposed in substantially perpendicular relationship to the front frame member and the rear frame member, front and rear frame member adjustment assemblies to selectively and lockably adjust the length of the front and rear frame members for frictionally holding the adjustable frame in place within the briefcase, side frame member adjustment assemblies to selectively and lockably adjust the spacing between the front and rear frame members, and a frame adjustment assembly to selectively and lockably adjust the spacing between the side frame members to selectively adjust the substantially rectangular comp
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: John D. Speirs
    Inventor: John D. Speirs
  • Patent number: 5845780
    Abstract: The present invention provides an athletic bag for conveniently carrying, storing and airing out athletic equipment. To accomplish this, the bag is positionable between an open mode preventing access to an interior volume thereof and an open mode permitting access to the interior volume. In the open mode, the bag is orientable to an upright position such that it may stand unaided providing access to the interior of the bag in a locker-type fashion. Further, specialized compartments are provided for stowing the athletic equipment such that itemized pieces thereof are not commingled within the interior volume of the bag. Further, the bag may be hung for enhancing air circulation around the athletic equipment such that it quickly dries out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Vickey L. Allen
  • Patent number: 5839553
    Abstract: A briefcase includes a hinge end, an opening end, a first side and a second side. A first case is configured to fit snugly between the hinge end and the opening end of the briefcase, adjacent the first side of the briefcase. A second case is configured to fit snugly between the second side of the briefcase and the first case, adjacent the hinge end of the briefcase, leaving a contiguous open volume for use within the briefcase. A first tray having fixed compartments within for storing items is configured to fit within the first case. A second tray having removable walls forming compartments of variable size is configured to fit within the second case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Robert E. Dorsam
  • Patent number: 5839577
    Abstract: A bag for holding athletic articles is disclosed which comprises an outer shell having an exterior surface and an interior surface. The outer shell is configured in the shape of an athletic ball and includes a securable opening for inserting and removing articles therefrom. The interior surface of the outer shell is provided with a first strip of fastening means for mating engagement with a second strip of fastening means positioned on the exterior surface of an inner lining which is removably securable within the outer shell such that the inner lining conforms to the shape of the outer shell when it is positioned therein. The inner lining may be machine-washable and is advantageously fabricated from an absorbent material for absorbing sweat and moisture from athletic articles carried within the bag. A handle is provided on the outer shell for carrying and transporting the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Mark Friedler
  • Patent number: 5829502
    Abstract: A new organizer handbag is provided for organizing items stored therein and providing quick and easy access to such items. The inventive device includes a first-half member and a second-half member hingedly coupled along adjacent bottom edges and releasably joined along adjacent perimeter edges so as to cooperatively define a primary storage compartment. The first-half member and the second-half member are cooperatively and hingedly openable between a closed, generally upright position and an open, generally flat position. A plurality of internal storage compartments adapted for holding small items are provided on the inner surfaces of the first-half member and the second-half member whereby quick and easy access to small items stored within the plurality of internal storage compartments is possible. An inner pouch is contained within the primary storage compartment and is removable for convenient carrying thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventors: Sylvia Ruth Distefano, Dominic Distefano
  • Patent number: 5815843
    Abstract: A fastener for removably attaching pockets and other accessories to garments which includes slidably interlocking male and female members. The male member also includes a locking tab which cooperates with a locking post on the female member for securing the fastener in a closed position. The male member and the female member may be attached to the pocket and the garment respectively by sewing them in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Survival, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee W. Brillhart, III, Ricky W. Stewart
  • Patent number: 5813558
    Abstract: A baby supplies case and bag/bassinet combination with an openable front flap. Unzipping the flap reveals a shelved case holding diapers and baby supplies. Attached to the lowest shelf by a hinge is a hollow wedge shaped baby wipes container of sufficient length to extend to a cutout in the above shelf where the wide end of the wedge-shaped container rests. The wide end has raised ridges at either end thereof which retain a protective lid in position. In the middle of the wide end is an oval opening which provides access to baby wipes. When this wedge shaped container is rotated downward and the protective lid is slid open, a baby wipe can be retrieved. Due to the wedge shape of the container, it will not impede the removal of objects from the shelf behind. Resting on the middle shelf of the case is a holder for a container of baby powder. When this holder is rotated downwardly, it hangs from supports attached to the shelf on which it was resting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: Linda M. Burke
  • Patent number: 5810133
    Abstract: An garment bag structure incorporates corner brace elements adapted to receive smaller containers for improved packing efficiency.The design improves overall structural integrity while enabling the user to efficiently pack and access such commonly packed items as toiletries, lotions and shampoos.The system allows such items to be separated from a clothing compartment to reduce the possible spillage damage from such items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Gregory Bigler
  • Patent number: 5803470
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for use in storing and transporting a child's stroller. In its broadest context, the present invention includes a rear cover, with an associated stroller wheel receiving recess, hingedly secured to a front cover, with an associated stroller wheel receiving recess. The storing and transporting device of the present invention also employs a number of detachable pouches which are securable within the interior of the device. Wheels and a retractable handle are both provided for use in transporting the entire assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Jayne E. Smith
  • Patent number: 5794676
    Abstract: The present invention provides a detachable organizer with a fastener for securing the organizer closed and/or for securing the organizer to a target surface, such as the interior surface of the closure flap of a flight case or a litigation briefcase. Alternatively, the organizer can be secured to a wall, countertop, desktop or dashboard or the like. For use by aircraft flight crew personnel, the interior of the organizer comprises a plurality of pockets adapted for receiving and securely holding small necessary items, including passport, small pocket calculator, flight log and expense record, pens and/or pencils, mini-flashlight and the FAA-approved folding multipurpose tool unit (e.g., the Leatherman tool). The preferred fastener by which the organizer is secured closed and attached to the target surface is hook-loop material, and preferably the organizer can be reversibly secured to the target surface in the closed or opened configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: John Hunt Shattuck
  • Patent number: 5704528
    Abstract: A multi-purpose valise functioning as a variable volume backpack and consisting of two selectively connectible components, one larger than the other, the large component serving at times to store the smaller component which is provided with a flap for closing the larger component, the volume of the larger component being compactable by reducing the axial length of the larger component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Frances Wister Faure
  • Patent number: 5680914
    Abstract: A portable lap office assembly having an internal desktop writing surface includes a case having a lower portion and an upper portion being hinged to the lower portion to undergo pivotal movement relative thereto between closed and open positions, each of the lower and upper portions having an exterior surface, an interior surface and a cavity defined by the interior surface, and a desktop insert fitted into the cavity of the lower portion of the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Inventor: Douglas K. Reiser
  • Patent number: 5678666
    Abstract: The travelling bag of the present invention includes a body portion having a back wall and a support wall attached thereto. The support wall is formed of a rigid plastic material and extends to the back wall. A lid portion of the travelling bag fits over the body portion to close the travelling bag. A partition separates the body portion into a front compartment and a rear compartment. Clothing and other personal items may be placed into the rear compartment, and a computer case can be detachably connected to the support wall within the front compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Goodhope Bags, Ind., Inc.
    Inventors: Michael H. Shyr, Godfrey S. Shyr
  • Patent number: 5676223
    Abstract: A business case comprises a front compartment, middle compartment, an expandable rear compartment, a removable portable computer carrying case designed to carry a portable computer, and a suit carrier. The bag member can be dropped into one of two panels located on the front face of the front compartment. The panels additionally allow for easy access to a portable computer and related accessories stored within the carrying case. Alternatively, the carrying case can be closed and stored in the expandable rear compartment when the suit carrier is stored in the front compartment of the case. The middle compartment is sized to hold clothing and travel related items for business trips and is equipped with pouches for smaller items. Furthermore, the middle compartment of the housing may include wheels, handles, and feet for easily moving and balancing the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Eiffel Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 5669495
    Abstract: A dual utility carrying case for the storage and transportation of objects including firearms which includes a rigid outer case and a lightweight, independently usable inner case which fits snugly in the outer case. The outer case opens at one end to permit removal of the inner lightweight case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventor: David T. West
  • Patent number: 5664716
    Abstract: A tank panel apparatus including a base member is adapted to be attached to a motorcycle fuel tank. A slot is disposed on a top surface of the base member for receiving a projection of a container and a release mechanism is also provided on the container to hold the projection in the slot and consequently hold the container to the base member. The container also includes a belt clip or belt loop so that the motorcycle operator can attach the container to his or her belt once it is removed from the motorcycle tank panel and which container can readily and quickly be re-attached to the motorcycle tank panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Glenn S. Nuckolls