Backpack Or Component Thereof Patents (Class 224/153)
  • Patent number: 5657917
    Abstract: A carrying device for use by a wearer to carry possessions on the wearer's back and comprising a back panel supported adjacent a wearer's back, a moveable pouch supported adjacent the back panel in a first position and supportable adjacent the wearer's chest in a second position, a motion inhibitor interposed between the back panel and the pouch when the pouch is in the first position, and the pouch is attached in a position such that it is graspable by the wearer for moving the pouch from the first to the second position without removing the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Inventus, Inc.
    Inventors: Karen T. Johnson, Lori T. Adams, April D. Montgomery, John W. Montgomery
  • Patent number: 5649658
    Abstract: A backpack is comprised of a plurality of compartments for permitting storage of and easy access to a variety of infant care-associated products, and includes a detachable waterproof changing pad, which may be readily stored within and unfolded from an auxiliary backpack compartment, so as to provide the parent-wearer with an easy to carry and use, infant changing station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Assignee: Nappie Sak, Inc.
    Inventors: Valerie L. Hoffman, Carol A. Gornto
  • Patent number: 5641199
    Abstract: A combination backpack and chair cover, comprising first and second broad panels arranged in generally upright aligned, spaced apart relationship to form the front and rear portions, respectively, of the backpack, a shorter third panel hingedly attached along its opposed marginal edges to the respective lower edges of the first and second panels to form the bottom of the backpack, opposed fourth and fifth side panels co-extensive with and hingedly attached to the first panel along the mutual side marginal edges thereof, a sixth panel hingedly attached to the first panel to form the top of the backpack, strap apparatus attached to the first panel to support the backpack in carrying position and inter-engaging fastening device attached to the non-hingedly connected edges of the panels, and shiftable between a first position, wherein all panels are interconnected along their marginal edges to form an enclosed backpack, and a second position, wherein the panels are opened to allow the first, second and third pane
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventor: Winnie Bond-Madsen
  • Patent number: 5634579
    Abstract: A backpack with integral front panel vest-like construction including a front panel, a back panel, a shoulder bib and straps or the like for attaching the front and back portions together. The front panel has a front panel top, a front panel bottom, and two front panel sides. The back panel has a back panel rear backside pack, a back panel top, a back panel bottom, and two back panel sides. The shoulder bib attaches the front panel top and the back panel top, and the shoulder bib has a shoulder bib head opening. Straps attach the front panel sides and the two back panel sides together and secure the backpack to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Inventor: Bonnie M. Baclawski
  • Patent number: 5634576
    Abstract: A knapsack to be carried on a person's back comprising a storage compartment and a carrying unit. The storage compartment comprises a bottom wall, a back wall facing the person, a front wall and side wall portions adjacent the back wall. The walls of the storage compartment being substantially rigid and it comprises one or more openings. The carrying unit is releasably attached to the back wall, and comprises carrying straps and a collapsible rucksack which is collapsed when the carrying unit is attached to the storage compartment and may be expanded into a rucksack shape when the carrying unit is detached from the storage compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: Armadilo Ltd.
    Inventor: Itai Arbel
  • Patent number: 5628437
    Abstract: A combination backpack and seat device is constructed of first and second U-shaped frame members, each having a transverse portion intended to be horizontally disposed during use and parallel side portions intended to be vertically disposed during use. The frame members are pivotably interconnected at a site within their side portions. A fabric panel extends between the transverse portions of the frame members and serves as a seat when the frame members are pivoted to maximum separation, representing the seat mode of use of the device. In the seat mode of use, the lower extremities of the side portions of the second frame member contact the ground, and a strap of adjustable length secured to the side portions of the second frame member is caused to tautly embrace a tree adjacent the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Inventor: Edward F. Kober
  • Patent number: 5618110
    Abstract: A combination beach towel and tote bag comprising a towel made of fiber-reactive dyed velour on one side for a decorative pattern and a pair of rectangular panels attached to one corner of said beach towel, occupying approximately one-sixth the surface area of the beach towel, said panels being sized in shape and connected to form a tote bag when turned inside out for receiving the remainder of the towel and presenting decorative designs on the outside of said tote bag. The towel is easily deployed and easily folded neatly and inserted into the tote bag. Attached to the tote bag are first and second adjustable fabric straps, sized to fit around the shoulders of a user, that have adjustable fabric fasteners that allow the tote bag in the tote bag position with the beach towel disposed therein to be used and carried as a backpack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Assignee: Fashion Towel Imports Corp.
    Inventor: William Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5615812
    Abstract: A convertible pack frame which, in a first configuration allows the user to wear the pack simply around the waist or lower torso leaving the upper body unrestrained thereby facilitating the hunter's movement through and over rugged terrain and which in an alternate or second configuration may be used to lash or otherwise secure substantial loads including game for the purpose of transporting such loads. The convertible packing frame also provides a means for readily converting the system from a first configuration to a second configuration together with means for conveniently stowing those parts not required in the second configuration, i.e. the pack frame configuration, in a compartment provided when the apparatus is arranged in the first configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Inventor: Timothy F. Martin
  • Patent number: 5609278
    Abstract: An articulated backpack apparatus for transporting material while attached to a user in which an upper storage element of the apparatus is capable of pivotal movement in relationship to a lower storage element of the apparatus while attached to the user. The backpack apparatus is capable of being collapsed into a satchel orientation so that the backpack apparatus may be carried by hand. From the satchel orientation the upper storage element and lower storage element may be moved apart by a pair of extensible supports so that the backpack apparatus may be secured over the wheel of bicycle in a pannier orientation. Additionally, the backpack apparatus is provided with a pull handle, an extensible shaft, and wheels, so that the backpack apparatus may be rolled along the ground in a pull cart orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Inventor: Andre Fresco
  • Patent number: 5603441
    Abstract: A multi-purpose front/back pack apparatus having the primary elements of 1) a front pack assembly; 2) a pack and gun carrier frame; 3) a gun and cartridge carrier assembly mounted on the pack and gun carrier frame; 4) a shoulder strap assembly connected to the front pack assembly and the pack and gun carrier frame; 5) a back pack assembly; and 6) a support belt member operable to interconnect the back pack assembly to the front pack assembly. The front pack assembly is provided with an expandable main pack bag and can be utilized with a gun and cartridge carrier assembly for conveyance of a gun member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Inventor: Michael D. Easter
  • Patent number: 5597101
    Abstract: A device which may be used as a backpack frame in a first functional position and as a chair with backrest in a second functional position, while still providing ready access to the backpack, supported by the frame. The device is comprised of a generally rectangular outer leg frame, and an inner leg assembly, whose over-all width is marginally narrower than the horizontal inside dimensions of the outer leg frame side members, allowing pivotal connection of the respective frames, and having a seat frame member, pivotally supported by the upper end portions of the inner leg assembly, and guidably contained within the upper portions of the outer leg U channels, which form the outer leg frame side members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignees: Gary D. Avery, Ted Barber
    Inventors: Ted Barber, Gary D. Avery
  • Patent number: 5590825
    Abstract: Disclosed is a lightweight backpack and its frame. The design of the frame accommodates use as a structure for shaping and supporting a recreational hiking or military infantry backpack while in a folded and compact arrangement, and additionally, accommodates use for shaping and supporting material for use as a sleeping cot able to support the body weight of a human while in and unfolded elongated arrangement. In either the folded or unfolded arrangement, the backpack may be easily removed or reattached to the frame. The cot material is also easily detachable for purposes of replacement of worn material and its arrangement in conjunction with the frame is also intended to serve in part as padding and back support for the wearer. The hinge and lock at the frame's hinge joints aids the user in fold out and break down of the frame and also adds strength to the frame while in both the folded and unfolded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Inventor: Douglas C. Murdock
  • Patent number: 5588569
    Abstract: A carrier bag including a box member having a bottom plate and a plurality of side plates that extend from the outer-periphery of the bottom plate in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the bottom plate. The box member is defined with an opening which is always oriented in an upper-diagonal direction relative to a surface when the box member is positioned on the surface with either the bottom plate or one of the side plates being in contact therewith. Furthermore, the carrier bag is provided with a caster at each corner portion defined between the bottom plate and one of the side plates. The opening is covered with a fastenable and unfastenable cover. The carrier bag is thereby fabricated so as to allow articles to be put therein in downward and side directions in relation to the surface. Thus, the carrier bag provides a choice of storage space for each size and shape of article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignees: Nifco, Inc., Kabushiki Kaisha Cosmo Area
    Inventors: Masako Mitomi, Ryo Hoshino
  • Patent number: 5584422
    Abstract: A combination backpack and chair cover, comprising first and second broad panels arranged in generally upright aligned, spaced apart relationship to form the from and rear portions, respectively, of the backpack, a shorter third panel hingedly attached along its opposed marginal edges to the respective lower edges of the first and second panels to form the bottom of the backpack, opposed fourth and fifth side panels co-extensive with and hingedly attached to the first panel along the mutual side marginal edges thereof, a sixth panel hingedly attached to the first panel to form the top of the backpack, strap apparatus attached to the first panel to support the backpack in carrying position and inter-engaging fastening device attached to the non-hingedly connected edges of the panels, and shiftable between a first position, wherein all panels are interconnected along their marginal edges to form an enclosed backpack, and a second position, wherein the panels are opened to allow the first, second and third panel
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventor: Winnie Bond-Madsen
  • Patent number: 5577652
    Abstract: A convertible backpack having an anchoring loop centrally disposed near the top of the backpack on a back panel. A single shoulder strap connected to the backpack at both ends and passing slidably through the anchoring loop at its middle dividing the shoulder strap into a left portion and a right portion. Accordingly, the backpack can be easily converted from double shoulder wear, to single shoulder wear, to across the chest wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Cher (Int'l) Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Cheryl G. Cooper
  • Patent number: 5573155
    Abstract: An apparatus of the type adapted to be carried on the back of a person. The apparatus includes a pack having a front panel and a rear panel which define a chamber therebetween in which articles can be stored and carried. A pair of shoulder straps are secured to the pack such that, with the straps positioned over the shoulders of a person, the front panel faces and is generally parallel to the back of a person. The apparatus further includes a pad assembly having a first and second generally planar pads, each having a top, bottom and two sides. The bottoms of the pads are pivotally secured together between a first position in which the first pad overlies and is substantially parallel to the second pad, and a second position in which the plane of the first pad is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the second pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventor: Stephen Sadler
  • Patent number: 5573154
    Abstract: A backpack for holding implements for emergency medical care, includes an approximately rectangular rear wall part and a front wall part which swings open, is joined with the rear wall part by means of a first side wall part, and corresponds approximately to the rear wall part in terms of its surface area. The backpack also includes a carrying system. In order to create a backpack of this type, which ensures the visibility of its entire contents at first glance and from which the implements for emergency medical care can be easily removed by the user without it first being necessary for other components of the backpack's contents to be removed, a second side wall part, which is joined with an intermediate wall part that can swing open, is arranged on the rear wall part opposite the first side wall part. In addition, two end flaps are arranged at the free sides of the rear wall part. These are opposite each other and, when the backpack is closed, they at least partially surround the side wall parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Heraeus Med GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Tietze
  • Patent number: 5570829
    Abstract: A backpack which may be used to carry a folding chair including front and rear members, a connecting device for releasably connecting the front and rear members to one another thereby forming an internal cavity, and a fastening device, associated with the internal cavity, for releasably securing the foldable chair within the cavity. The backpack may also include a plurality of storage compartments, including an insulated storage compartment for food and beverages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: Rebecca Harrison
  • Patent number: 5564720
    Abstract: A lightweight, portable wheeled game cart can be compacted, as by folding, and attached to a shoulder harness so that it can be carried by a person on his or her back as if a backpack frame. This allows for easy transport of the compacted cart, and any gear attached to it, to a hunting site. In the preferred embodiment, the cart has a lever length in the form of an elongated frame for lifting and supporting game, and a pair of wheels to provide a rolling fulcrum, the frame being hinged in generally the middle. By removing the shoulder harness and unfolding the frame, the pack frame transforms into a cart. A person may then transport game and/or rescue victims from remote areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventor: Russell L. Stringer
  • Patent number: 5562236
    Abstract: A modular backpack which may be reconfigured into luggage or carrying articles. The assembly includes first and second backpacks each of which may be separated into upper and lower compartments. The lower compartments may then be coupled together to form a transportable piece of luggage, and the upper compartments are similarly couplable to form a further piece of luggage. The assembly also includes a tent extendable from the backpack, as well as an extensible elastic pack cover for protecting the backpack from rain or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: Damon P. Monzingo
  • Patent number: 5560524
    Abstract: A combination gear pack and pivotable seat member is provided. The seat member is connected at the bottom of the gear pack and is pivotable between positions over a range in respect to the front and the rear of the pack. Straps support the seat member from the pack to create an effective chair, and the straps are adjustable so that the angular orientation of the seat member with respect to the pack can be adjusted for comfort to the user. The pack and the seat member are reinforced with rigid edges for seating comfort and structural support. The seat member, when not in use as a chair, can also be swung back to compressively secure a load against the pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Inventor: Paul W. Brune
  • Patent number: 5547246
    Abstract: A combination canoe carrier and camp chair. The carrier supports an inverted canoe on a person's back and is also capable of being converted to a folding camp chair. The chair includes two rectangular frames pivotally connected intermediate their ends. Webbing is secured to the frame to provide seat and back portions and the frames are interconnected by straps to provide a chair configuration. In the canoe carrier mode a web interconnects upper ends of the frames to support the thwart of the inverted canoe. Suitable shoulder straps and a hip belt are also attached to the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Michael Lambert
  • Patent number: 5544792
    Abstract: A book bag having a primary compartment and a plurality of substantially identical secondary compartments which are designed to function independently of each other while in a unitary arraignment. The compartments can be converted to a fully open relationship which allows for easy storage into narrow upright lockers. Each compartment has inner and outer parallel side panels connected by a bottom, top, and two ends. The compartments are interconnected in a side by side relationship to the side panel of a mating compartment by zipper elements. Secured to the inner panel of each compartment is a shoulder harness to allow the book bag to be carried in typical fashion on one's back. Individual compartments may also be carried by a handle secured to the top. Centrally positioned on the outer side panel is an expandable envelope designed for easy retrial of homework assignments or the like. Pockets are also provided on the ends of a compartment for storage of pens, rulers, pencils or other school supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventor: Billy C. Arnwine
  • Patent number: 5544793
    Abstract: A device for attachment to a standard folding lawn chair for subsequent transportation on an individual's back. The device utilizes a padded sleeve which slips over the back of the chair, and within which are a pair of fasteners which are secured to the seatback upper-crossmember. A pair of shoulder straps, integral with the fasteners, extend from the padded sleeve and, after passing over the individual's shoulders, are attached to the chair central-crossmember. The seat is held in the folded position by means of a cord extending from the sleeve which is tied around the seat front-crossmember.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventor: Kathy L. Harrop
  • Patent number: 5540364
    Abstract: An article carrier for wearing by a user and modifiable into a plurality of different configurations. This article carrier may be utilized as a fanny pack, a backpack carrier, and/or a carrier for skis and the like. Included in the article carrier is a shoulder harness detachably secured to the fanny pack. This harness may be utilized in conjunction with, or independent from, the fanny pack. When the harness is attached to the fanny pack, it may be entirely stored within the compartment or it may be draped over the user's shoulders. The front surface of the shoulder harness includes a pair of straps, each being adjustably mounted thereto. These straps can be utilized to secure such items as skis, or they can be utilized to removably secure a backpack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Inventors: Julian Z. Krieger, Padraic J. Cassidy
  • Patent number: 5531366
    Abstract: A reusable shopping bag assembly is provided. The assembly has collapsible expandable soft sided bags which can be rolled up from an upper open end in a spiral shape, the bags having a bottom end having a plurality of holes to permit air flow there through for allowing the bags to be rolled up into a compact shape. A pair of hanger bars are attached to opposite bag sides adjacent the upper open end of the bags. Opposite ends of each hanger bar extending beyond opposite bags sides for engagement with spaced apart upper edges of a shopping cart to suspend the bags in a shopping cart when the bags are unrolled. A carrying case is provided having a side opening. The side opening being adapted for insertion of the bags when the bags are in a rolled state so that the carrying case will encapsulate the bags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventor: Grant C. Strom
  • Patent number: 5529230
    Abstract: A lumbar pack having a bag and a waistbelt attached to the bag and including an elongated, flexible, semi-rigid support member flexed into a curved shape and received within the bag. The support member is of sufficient height when in this curved shape to extend from the buttocks of the user to the thoracic region of the user. A pair of adjustable straps are provided, one on either of opposite sides of the pack, to adjust the pack into a position adjacent the lumbar region of the user. When in this adjusted position, the flexible support member serves to bring the upper portion of the bag against the thoracic region of the user's back. The support member may include a pair of elongated delrin rods. The bag includes a front and a back interior wall with top edges folded over to form pockets therein for receiving the ends of the flexed rods so as to retain the rod within the compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Assignee: MountainSmith, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick D. Smith
  • Patent number: 5529229
    Abstract: A backpack having a waist encircling belt, and an attached set of shoulder straps which retract into a discreet pocket when not in use. There is a set of shoulder straps having clips on one end, and these are carried in, and attached to, a discreet pocket at the other end which is location on the outside, rear panel of the pack where the shoulder straps are readily accessible and can easily be drawn out and attached to rear side portions of the waist encircling belt. This provides additional support for the pack on an as-needed basis, and has the added benefit of being quickly and easily stowed when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Inventor: Alyx T. Fier
  • Patent number: 5492255
    Abstract: A multi-functional pack frame assembly which can be assembled and disassembled while selectively functioning as 1) a backpack support assembly; 2) an adjustable chair assembly; 3) a gun rest assembly; and 4) a table assembly. The multi-functional pack frame assembly includes 1) a pack and ground support assembly; 2) a table and gun rest assembly connected to the pack and ground support assembly; 3) a back rest support assembly connectable to the pack and ground support assembly when functioning as a backpack support cushion or chair support member; 4) an adjustable elevation support assembly connectable to the pack and ground support assembly to provide adjustable elevational support thereto; and 5) a shoulder connector and support assembly connected to the pack and ground support assembly for attachment to shoulder portions of a camper/hunter member for conveyance thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventors: Alton E. Gansky, William A. Harris
  • Patent number: 5490619
    Abstract: A device for providing a plurality of ways for transporting articles wherein a bag, which is relatively large and flexible, is contained in a purse, which is relatively small, so that the purse may be turned inside out to expose the bag and wherein the bag has an internal volume many times greater than the volume of the purse and wherein the bag has a top portion which may be opened so that articles can be placed in the bag and closed to retain the articles therein and wherein the purse is located inside of the bag when in use and wherein the bag is provided with webbing so that the bag may be carried as a backpack, a shoulder bag or a hand bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Inventor: Florene E. Boyar
  • Patent number: 5487498
    Abstract: A back pack or fanny pack using a hip belt to secure the pack to a wearer's waist. This pack includes a padded lumbar pad positioned vertically along the lumbar region of a wearer's spine. The lumbar pad, which is constructed of flexible padding, is secured to the pack at an upper and lower surface of the lumbar pad. A padded hip belt is positioned between the lumbar pad and the pack. The hip belt is used to anchor a pair of straps, each connected to one end of a stay secured to the pack. The stay is positioned between the lumbar pad and the pack and extends across the wearer's back substantially parallel with the hip pad. When the straps are pulled taut about the body of a wearer, the stay is forced into the wearer's back causing the lumbar pad to be pressed into the lumbar region of the wearer to concentrate the weight of the pack at the lumbar region of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Inventor: Dana W. Gleason
  • Patent number: 5474278
    Abstract: A compact, light weight, back packable winch and power source, including a cable quick release device to facilitate single handed use of the winch. The power train and cable retrieval mechanisms are mounted on one side of a back pack frame or platform, and straps and padding enabling the mechanism to be carried like a back pack are mounted on the other side of the frame together with folding legs that assist in supporting the assembly during operation. A substantial quantity of small diameter cable is wound onto the winch spool by a level wind mechanism. The spool and level wind mechanism are powered, through chain and sprocket assemblies, by a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor is powered by a compact gasoline engine that operates a hydraulic pump to supply hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic motor, controlled by a flow control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Inventor: Joe H. Cleveland
  • Patent number: 5465888
    Abstract: Multiple embodiments are disclosed of a cycling belt to be worn by a main rider seated on a main seat of a cycle and which is for use when cycling with a child or infant in a child carrier seat, preferably a carrier seat mount to the rear of the main seat. The cycling belt comprises a band portion which is adjustable in length and which is removably fastenable around the waist of the main rider. A closable pouch for storing basic child care items is attached to the band portion so as to be centerable upon the main rider's lower back. Pockets are further attached about the cycling belt for storing child play and care items, the items of which can be removably fastened to tether assemblies which removably fasten to attachment fittings on the cycling belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventor: Kathleen P. Owens
  • Patent number: 5460307
    Abstract: An improved backpack is described as including a frame assembly having a first closed position and a second open position and cooperating with a fabric shell in both the first closed position and the second open position. In the first closed position the fabric shell forms a compartment useful for containing cargo items. In the second open position the fabric shell provides a bed useful for placing large or heavy cargo items on. Detachable wheels are included that separate apart from an axle that is attached to the frame. The wheels are not used in the first closed position and are transported inside the compartment as additional cargo items. The wheels are attached to each end of the axle when the frame is pivoted into the second open position and are useful in maneuvering the improved backpack over the ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Bruce E. Stevenson
  • Patent number: 5458278
    Abstract: A bag is provided for carrying articles, particularly articles to be laundered. A compartment is provided having an interior and an opening to provide access to the interior. A fastener, such as a zipper, extends along the length of the compartment. The fastener, when opened, expands the opening to provide greater access to the interior. A drawstring is secured about a periphery of the compartment at the opening to adjust the size of the opening. At least one strap is integrally formed with the compartment to assist in maneuvering the compartment. Additional compartments or pockets are provided separate from the other compartment for carrying other articles, such as articles associated with the laundering process. The bag is particularly suited for carrying over at least one or both shoulders of an individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Assignee: Michael LaConte
    Inventor: Michael LaConte
  • Patent number: 5447261
    Abstract: A carrier bag including a box member having a bottom plate and a plurality of side plates that extend from the outer-periphery of the bottom plate in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the bottom plate. The box member is defined with an opening which is always oriented in an upper-diagonal direction relative to a surface when the box member is positioned on the surface with either the bottom plate or one of the side plates being in contact therewith. Furthermore, the carrier bag is provided with a caster at each corner portion defined between the bottom plate and one of the side plates. The opening is covered with a fastenable and unfastenable cover. The carrier bag is thereby fabricated so as to allow articles to be put therein in downward and side directions in relation to the surface. Thus, the carrier bag provides a choice of storage space for each size and shape of article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignees: Nifco Inc., Kabushiki Kaisha Cosmo Area
    Inventors: Masako Mitomi, Ryo Hoshino
  • Patent number: 5445301
    Abstract: A combination backpack and stool includes a frame having an upper seat portion which is downwardly curved and is formed of front and rear opposed frame panels and a number of cross supports which rigidly join the front and rear frame panels one to another. A fabric cover member covers the frame and includes an access opening which allows access through the fabric cover member and into an interior of said frame so that a user may store articles therewithin. A cushion member is interposed between the downwardly curved upper seat portion of the frame and a corresponding portion of the fabric cover member so that the user will have a comfortable seat when seated upon the upper seat portion of the frame. A pair of shoulder straps are connected to the frame and/or fabric cover member so as to allow the frame to be carried upon a person's back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Inventor: Eric C. Biedenharn, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5439153
    Abstract: A protective cover for bags which may be carried by means of a harness or waist belt such as shoulder bags, fanny packs and the like is described. In order to provide additional protection against inclement weather, the bag comprises a pocket having a fastener and into which a cover of flexible water resistant material may be folded when the cover is stored. When additional protection for the bag is desired the pocket is opened and the cover unfolded from the pocket. The pocket contains the hinge joining the cover to the bag. The cover then extends around the bag to provide a water resistant covering extending over at least those sides of the bag which have openable flaps through which leakage may occur. The cover extends around but does not cover the harness so that the harness is still available for its intended use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Assignee: Daymen Photo Marketing Ltd.
    Inventors: Douglas Murdoch, Uwe Mummenhoff
  • Patent number: 5437401
    Abstract: A personal harness can carry at least one article. The harness has a shoulder strap having a pair of carrying ends. The harness also has a pair of hitching devices for holding at least that one article. This pair of hitching devices is separately attached to the shoulder strap near the pair of carrying ends. Each of the hitching devices has a cinch strap, a clasp, and a primary slide. The primary slide is slidably mounted on the shoulder strap. The cinch strap is attached to the primary slide. The clasp can detachably join the cinch strap and the corresponding one of the carrying ends of the shoulder strap. The harness is used by encircling at least the one article with the shoulder strap and the respective cinch strap, with the clasp opened. After closing the respective clasp, one can carry at least that one article by shouldering the shoulder strap and walking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventor: Richard Seltzer
  • Patent number: 5433358
    Abstract: A carrier comprises a support frame and a carrying harness. The frame is an A-frame which has two telescopic legs at each side. A third telescopic leg is pivotable with respect to the frame. The carrier is adapted to carry a bag, for example a camera equipment bag, and the combination may be worn by a user as a rucksack. In use the telescopic legs are extended, the third leg is pivoted away from the frame and the carrier forms a tripod. At the top of the tripod is a mounting block which may mount a camera or a tripod head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventor: Trevor Millard
  • Patent number: 5431317
    Abstract: According to the invention a multimode traveling bag is provided which can be carried as a hand carrying bag, a back pack, shoulder bag or over the head bag. The invention provides these multimode operations while limiting the number of handles and straps. Preferably a handle and strap are provided which are neatly positioned along the body of the bag when not in use. The traveling bag desirably has a single strap affixed at each end of the strap to the left and right side of the traveling bag. The strap should be of sufficient length so that the attached strap can be placed over the head of the user when the user desires to carry the bag over his head and support the bag by the opposite shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Inventor: Eugene Kliot
  • Patent number: 5415332
    Abstract: According to the invention a multimode traveling bag is provided which can be carried as a hand carrying bag, a back pack, shoulder bag or over the head bag. The invention provides these multimode operations while limiting the number of handles and straps. Preferably a single handle and strap are provided which are neatly positioned along the body of the bag when not in use. The traveling bag desirably has a single strap affixed at each end of the strap to the left and right side of the traveling bag. The strap should be of sufficient length so that the attached strap can be placed over the head of the user when the user desires to carry the bag over his head and support the bag by the opposite shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: Eugene Kliot
  • Patent number: 5411192
    Abstract: A folding table disposed within a tote bag which may be extended therefrom to rest on a surface or, alternatively, suspend from an automobile seat and the like. The table may be positioned at various angles relative to the supporting surface so as to maintain a level position and it includes both a drink holder and a book holder for securing a position of such articles upon the table. The apparatus further includes a pair of carrying straps configurable into either a backpack harness or a handbag strap and is also provided with a table cloth which may be unrolled therefrom for subsequent use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventor: Ji Xiao
  • Patent number: 5409152
    Abstract: A backpack assembly for holding audio components comprising a backpack having lower, upper, front, rear and two side faces. One of the side faces includes a plurality of pockets formed interiorly of the bag. One of the plurality of the pockets is sized to hold a speaker therein and a second of the plurality of pockets is sized to hold a radio therein wherein the radio and the speaker are operatively connected by a speaker wire extending from the speaker to the radio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Inventor: Jose Trevino
  • Patent number: 5407112
    Abstract: A convertible packpack having a storage compartment for a raincoat in the front of the pack covered by a completely detachable totebag having handles and a plurality of storage compartments in the back of the pack, the raincoat being held fast in the storage compartment by fastening straps that can also be used to support the totebag at the bottom of the pack when the raincoat is worn or alternatively the tote bag can be held at the bottom of the pack in suspended condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Inventors: Thomas N. Christodoulou, Gwendolyn O. Daniels
  • Patent number: 5405068
    Abstract: An improved bag for use on a motorcycle that is equipped with a padded seat back. The bag is readily attached to and detached from the cycle by inserting the motorcycle seat back into a snugly-fitting pocket on the front-facing surface of the bag. The attachment of the bag to the cycle is additionally stabilized by straps attached to the bag that engage members of the seat back or members of a rear luggage rack. The bag is provided with gussets to expand its storage capacity as well as a strap and fabric structure to secure a bed roll to the top of the bag. Straps may be attached so that the bag can be carried as either a shoulder bag or a backpack. In addition, a second bag may be attached to the front-facing surface of the bag such that the second bag rests on the passenger portion of the motorcycle seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Inventor: Terry Lovett
  • Patent number: 5390839
    Abstract: A lightweight combination duck decoy carrier and dog stand is presented. The dog stand is a rectangular platform made of tubular aluminum with plastic webbing across it. Unfolding from the horizontal frame are four legs also made of tubular aluminum. Each pair of legs has a cross support. Also attached to the frame is a lightweight duck decoy net and a shoulder harness. The device may conveniently carry decoys through the wilderness in its folded up position by means of the shoulder harness. Once at the hunting sight, the device is deployed by unfolding the legs and sticking the ends of the legs into the ground. The dog stand is then about three feet from the mud or water level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Inventor: Francis Peters
  • Patent number: 5381936
    Abstract: A new and improved backpack support apparatus includes a first extensible leg assembly, a second extensible leg assembly, and a plurality of transverse strut assemblies connected between the first extensible leg assembly and the second extensible leg assembly. The transverse strut assemblies are capable of supporting a backpack and capable of resting on a wearer's back. A separable, extensible walking stick assembly is used and includes a top portion adapted to engage one of the transverse strut assemblies, such that the extensible walking stick assembly, the first extensible leg assembly, and the second extensible leg assembly form a three-legged support for the backpack. The first extensible leg assembly and the second extensible leg assembly include a plurality of telescopic leg members and lock assemblies for locking the telescopic leg members in extended orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Inventors: Nicholas N. Beery, David J. Piersak
  • Patent number: 5381941
    Abstract: A pivotable seat member for a backpack frame is provided. A seat member is pivotally attached to the backpack frame to provide seating support for the user during times of rest and, when used with a sling, to provide support to a carried load during use. The seat member is supported from the frame by adjustable straps to form a backed chair structure. The seat member is pivotable between positions on either side of the frame so that the backpack frame can be used as a free standing chair or by securing against a tree to provide an elevated seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Inventor: Paul W. Brune
  • Patent number: 5377887
    Abstract: Multi-purpose luggage, convertible from a backpack to a handbag, by turning the luggage inside-out, has a plurality of walls, including a peripherally-disposed, laterally-arranged side wall, a top wall, and a bottom wall. The side wall incorporates a longitudinally-arranged closable opening. Each of the walls has two faces. A pair of manually-grippable handles are secured to one face of the side wall and are complementarily disposed on opposite sides of the opening. A pair of shoulder straps are secured to the opposite face of the side wall. One end of the shoulder straps is secured to the side wall adjacent to the top wall and the other end of the shoulder straps is secured to the side wall adjacent to the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Inventor: Lawrence Garcia