Two Attaching Means Crossing Different Shoulders Patents (Class 224/627)
  • Patent number: 6149041
    Abstract: A golf bag assembly adapted to be carried by an operator while operating a two-wheeled vehicle. The golf bag assembly includes a first bag body member forming a first receptacle for receiving golf clubs, and a second bag body member forming a second receptacle for receiving golf clubs. The upper ends of the first and second bag body members are pivotally coupled so that said first and second bag body members can pivot towards and away from each other. A releasable fastener is provided for securing the lower closed ends of the first and second bag body members. The lower ends are detachable in order to permit the first and second body members to pivot away from each other and assume an inverted V-shape so that the bag assembly can be safely transported on a motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventors: Anita Perino, Craig Hufnagel
  • Patent number: 6142491
    Abstract: A portable cart, for use in camping, hunting and other outdoors activities carries canoes, small boats, game, injured parties or hauled cargo by hand. The portable cart can be converted to a canoe or boat cart which can be folded down and transported within the canoe or boat, or to a game cart for transporting game over long, rough terrain, or to a cargo hauling gear cart, all of which can broken down into a carrying position, by hand or by back. The portable cart can be carried by hand or as a backpack over rough terrain. Its width can be varied to accommodate watercraft of varying widths. It is collapsible, so that it can be disassembled and carried in a canoe or small boat, and then reassembled at another destination along the canoe or boat's journey.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: North Coast Outfitters, Ltd.
    Inventor: Charles W. Darling, III
  • Patent number: 6138881
    Abstract: An ergonomically designed bag is configured with a strap system that is easily converted from a two-strap backpack mode into a single-strap shoulder bag mode. The carrying strap is attached at a first end to the top of the bag. The strap is longitudinally dividable with a zipper incorporated into the strap. When in the backpack mode the zipper is open to define a pair of straps, the lower ends of which are connected to D-rings on lateral sides of the front panel. When in the shoulder bag mode the zipper is closed and the lower ends of both straps are connected to a D-ring on a side panel of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Norm Thompson Outfitters, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeanne Paul, Lauren Candelaria
  • Patent number: 6131783
    Abstract: A golf bag includes a carrier belt attached to the golf bag's body which has a longitudinal axis and a closed end and an open end. A fixing strap has a first end attached to the bag body near the open end and a second end attached to the bag body at an intermediate position between the open end and the closed end. The fixing strap is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bag body. First and second shoulder straps are connected to the fixing strap and oriented generally in the same plane as the fixing strap, with each shoulder strap forming a loop into which a shoulder of a user is inserted. A moveable connector slideably attaches the first and second shoulder straps together. Upon movement of the connector, the relative sizes or shapes of the loops are changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Seop Maeng
  • Patent number: 6131199
    Abstract: A vest with incorporated back pack and back support including a vest portion adapted for being worn on a torso of a user. The vest portion is comprised of a front panel and a back panel each having outer edges. The outer edges are secured together leaving arm receiving openings and a head receiving opening. A backpack portion is secured to the back panel of the vest portion. A lower back support is securable to the back panel of the vest portion below the backpack portion. A pair of shoulder supports are secured interiorly of the vest portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventors: Deborah Bugel, Karen Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 6098859
    Abstract: An adjustable position harness buckle system which employs a captured track secured to a backpack apparatus along a predetermined path and a clamp mechanism which is engaged with said track and can be clamped thereto by a lever arm actuated cam at any position therealong.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: R. Blake Bortner
  • Patent number: 6095389
    Abstract: A backpack includes a body defining a receptacle and having a back wall with an upper edge and a pair of spaced-apart shoulder straps having upper ends attached to the body proximate to the upper edge of the back wall of the body. A carrying handle is connected to the shoulder straps in spaced-apart relation to the upper ends of the shoulder straps and defines with the back wall of the body an opening that is adapted to accept the fingers of a user when the user grasps the carrying handle. The carrying handle includes a handle cover that is adapted to maintain portions of the shoulder straps to which the carrying handle is attached in spaced-apart relation when the handle is in use so that the carrying handle is comfortable to hold and does not pinch the user's hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Tumi, Inc.
    Inventors: Timm Fenton, Paul Scicluna
  • Patent number: 6073820
    Abstract: A collapsible child carrier assembly having a support frame which comprises a pair of hinge members, each of which includes a bore extending therein. The support frame further includes front and back support structures, each of which are attached to the hinge members. Also included in the support frame is a top support bar having opposed ends and a pair of elongate slots extending longitudinally therein adjacent respective ones of the opposed ends thereof. The top support bar is pivotally connected to the hinge members via a pair of pivot pins which extend through and are movable within respective ones of the slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Infantino, A Dorel Co.
    Inventor: Jerome J. Drobinski
  • Patent number: 6073822
    Abstract: A knapsack including a selectively accessible compartment defined in part between a rigid, substantially solid member and a panel in opposed relationship thereto. The rigid member or panel includes straps for enabling attachment to a wearer. The rigid member is preferably a hubcap in which case, a circular ring is attached to an inner side thereof and another panel extends over the ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Aaron Schwartz
    Inventor: Danielle Swensen de Vidals
  • Patent number: 6070776
    Abstract: A backpack in which length of the shoulder straps automatically adjust as to length when the wearer twists his or her torso. The shoulder straps are connected at their lower end to form one continuous strap. This strap passes below the bottom panel of the backpack, and is contained within a channel. The channel extends along the bottom panel for its entire width from right to left. The channel bends upwardly and forwardly as it exits the bottom panel to follow the side panels of the backpack. A member of low friction characteristics enables the continuous strap to slide freely within the channel. The channel is formed to resist distortion by compression from the load carried within the backpack. The shoulder straps may be elastic, and include an adjustment feature enabling adjustment of their overall length to accommodate different body dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventors: Kevin P. Furnary, Joshua R. Valentine
  • Patent number: 6024265
    Abstract: A rucksack comprises a sack (1), a carrying harness (11) and a waistbelt (12). The rucksack has an external frame member comprising a U-shaped hoop (20) which is connected by its free ends to the waistbelt (12) and extends around the side walls (4) and front wall (2) of the rucksack (1). Compression straps (25, 28) are connected between the hoop (20) and the rucksack such that the hoop (20) may be adjusted relative to the rucksack (1). The hoop (20) is held in a sleeve (21) sewn to the walls (2, 4) of the rucksack (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Lowe Alpine Holdings Limited
    Inventor: James Clements
  • Patent number: 6016944
    Abstract: A wearable tool carrier having two harnesses, with one harnesses worn over each shoulder by inserting the arm of the user through the harness. A tool pouch is provided on one harness for a power tool, and a cargo carrier is provided on the opposite harness. Various articles may be transported by the cargo carrier, including a spare battery for the power tool, a roll of wire, or an accessory carrier. The tool pouch and cargo carrier are positioned underneath the arms of the user, and relatively high up on the torso, where they are out of the way during normal movement of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Inventor: Aaron Girbert
  • Patent number: 6006974
    Abstract: A golf bag with two carrying straps to enable a golfer, caddy or others to carry a golf bag by inserting their arms through a pair of loops defined by the carrying straps in order for the golf bag to be carried over both shoulders. Alternatively, the golf bag can be carried by only one of the straps in a conventional and well known manner by inserting one arm through a loop formed by one of the straps to support the bag from only one shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Morris Rosenbloom & Co., Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Varney, Michael D. Renahan
  • Patent number: 5996871
    Abstract: A carrier belt is connected to a golf bag having a bag body with a longitudinal axis and a closed end and an open end. The carrier strap includes a fixing strap having a predetermined length with a first end attached to the bag body near the open end and a second end attached to the bag body at an intermediate position between the open end and the closed end. The fixing strap is elongated, flexible and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bag body. A pair of shoulder straps attached to the fixing strap provide a pair of loops which enable a user to position one shoulder of the user in one loop and the other shoulder of the user in the other loop. The shoulder straps are attached to the fixing strap so that the loops are oriented in a plane which is generally at a right angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the bag body and adjustable along the predetermined length of the fixing strap to accommodate the physique of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Seop Maeng
  • Patent number: 5988475
    Abstract: A dual shoulder strap device attachable to a standard golf bag to allow a golfer to carry the golf bag centered on his back. For example, the dual shoulder strap device is made from a single piece to prevent twisting and entangling of the two separate shoulder straps. Alternatively, the dual shoulder straps are connected to tracks built into a coupler, in which the tracks allow the shoulder straps to be adjustable to the differing widths of the golfer's shoulders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Dong Kyu Han
  • Patent number: 5988474
    Abstract: A multi-functional carrying device, including a strap with two ends which can be secured into loops, and a bag secured to the middle section of the strap. The bag is provided with a receiving element near its upper portion, which receiving element is capable of receiving the two ends of the strap, which strap then serves as shoulder straps for carrying the bag. A securing element is provided so that the bag can be compressed and secured along the middle section of the strap when the bag is not needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventors: David R. Smith, II, Matthew Thomas J. Holcomb, James Anthony Jeff, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5984154
    Abstract: The shoulder straps of a wheelaway backpack are stowed in a compartment between a main back wall panel and a secondary back wall panel of the container, which compartment also receives the towing handle support tubes. A wheel cover panel, the lower edge of which is stitched to the outside of the main back wall panel some distance above the lower back edge of the backpack, has zippers along the sides for attaching it to the secondary back wall panel and forming a compartment for convenient temporary storage of articles. When unzipped and folded down against the lower part of the main back wall panel, the wheel cover panel covers the rear aspects of the wheels so as to keep the clothing of a user carrying the backpack on his or her back from being soiled by dirt and moisture on the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Tumi, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Scicluna
  • Patent number: 5979727
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a dual loop shoulder strap (10) for carrying a golf bag (14) having a first loop (30) and a second loop (34). The first loop (30) is attached to a first connection point (32) on the golf bag (14) whereby an individual (12) inserts one arm through the first loop (30) to support the golf bag (14) on one shoulder (26). A second loop (34) is attached to a second connection point (35) on the golf bag (14) longitudinally spaced from the first connection point (32) whereby the individual (12) inserts another arm through the second loop (34) to support the golf bag (14) on another shoulder (28). The present invention is envisioned for use with a conventional type golf bag (14) having a tubular receptacle and a single shoulder strap (70) with two longitudinally spaced connection points (32) (35) therein, typically the connection points for connecting each end of the single shoulder strap (70).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Steven T. Steurer
  • Patent number: 5967390
    Abstract: An inflatable container, for use by a fisherman, comprises a bag formed of a resilient water-proof material. The bag includes an inflatable base and inflatable walls. The bag can be used for transporting goods either when inflated or when deflated. The bag has at least one carrying strap or handle and, when inflated and being used as a bait bag, can be fastened to the waist of the fisherman so as to act as a buoyancy aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Andrew Frank Goryl
  • Patent number: 5964384
    Abstract: A traveling bag with expandable storage volume includes an additional pack body stored inside a receiving chamber formed aside of a bag body. Generally, the additional pack body is folded and received inside the receiving chamber and the cover wall is secured with the boundary wall by means of a fastener, so that the traveling bag can be used as a waist bag or a shoulder bag to store things in the storage compartment of the bag body. When additional storage volume is needed, the user may unsecure the fastener to separate a cover wall from a boundary wall so as to open the receiving chamber. Thus the additional pack body can be unfolded and expanded from the receiving chamber to form a back pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: David Young
  • Patent number: 5957355
    Abstract: A pack compression system includes a pack enclosing an internal volume, a closing mechanism, and first and second compression mechanisms. The pack has a top, a bottom, a back panel extending between the top and bottom, an adapter for being positioned proximate the user's back, and a front panel opposite the back panel. The front panel includes an opening longitudinally extending between the top and the bottom to access the internal volume. The closing mechanism selectively closes the opening, the first and second compression mechanisms coupled to the pack on opposite lateral sides of the opening. Each compression mechanism extends from a first location proximate the back panel across the first opening to a second location proximate the back panel to compress the internal volume of the pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Johnson Worldwide Associates
    Inventor: Thomas R. Swetish
  • Patent number: 5957354
    Abstract: A backsack (48) comprises a bag (51 ), a strap (30), a pair of robust ring spring clips (38, 66) and generally four pellets (26, 28). The bag is folded and glued of a single sheet of printable paper-like, yet high-strength material to have side gussets (55) and a flat bottom (52). The flat bottom (52) comprises folded and glued flaps (21, 23) which advantageously form corner pockets (22). The top of the bag is turned (87), with reinforcements affixed under the cuff. Two holes (88) are punched through all four layers of the collapsed bag resulting in eight holes (88) when the bag is open. With the bag still collapsed, the strap (30) is threaded through one of the two holes, back through the other, and serves as a closure at the top, leach of the two equal length portions of the strap (30) emerges from its hole and loops down to form shoulder loops. A pellet (28) is placed into each bottom corner pocket (22). The coils of the pair of ring spring clips (40, 42 and 68, 70) are pried apart with a tool (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Robert Mentken
  • Patent number: 5954254
    Abstract: A carrier belt is connected to a golf bag having a bag body with a longitudinal axis and a closed end and an open end. The carrier strap includes a fixing strap having a predetermined length with a first end attached to the bag body near the open end and a second end attached to the bag body at an intermediate position between the open end and the closed end. The fixing strap is elongated, flexible and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bag body. A pair of shoulder straps attached to the fixing strap provide a pair of loops which enable a user to position one shoulder of the user in one loop and the other shoulder of the user in the other loop. The shoulder straps are attached to the fixing strap so that the loops are oriented in a plane which is generally at a right angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the bag body and adjustable along the predetermined length of the fixing strap to accommodate the physique of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Inventor: Seop Maeng
  • Patent number: 5950895
    Abstract: A carrying bag, such as a backpack, a closable primary storage compartment and at least one closable secondary storage compartment on the backpack configured in the shape of a hat, preferably a baseball cap. The carrying bag can also include additional separate closable compartments in other configurations for storing items separate from the items stored in the primary compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: La Rue Distributors, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Zakarin
  • Patent number: 5950894
    Abstract: A backpack assembly in which the straps are connected across the wearer's chest by a easy to connect and disconnect coupling member. Alternately, the snaps can be connected so that they extend vertically along the chest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Robert Haber
  • Patent number: 5934533
    Abstract: An apparatus for releasably retaining a recreational board, such as a skateboard, snowboard or skis, is shown and described. In one embodiment, the apparatus has a main body with a front portion to which one or more straps is attached, and a rear portion to which a pair of opposing flaps is attached. The flaps extend from the main body such that the second flap overlaps the first flap when the two are wrapped in opposite directions around the recreational board. The overlapping surfaces of the two flaps are secured together to releasably retain the board. A connector is fixed to the second flap and extends from the rear portion of the carrier to the front portion of the carrier where it terminates in a grip. A force exerted on the grip subjects the connector to tension, causes the second flap to be separated from the first flap, and releases the board. In another embodiment, the connector extends through apertures in the front and rear portions of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Megan H. Callanan
  • Patent number: 5894977
    Abstract: A backpack assembly with top, bottom, front, primary back and side panels which together define a chamber within. A pair of shoulder straps are secured to the backpack such that, with the straps positioned over the shoulders of the person, the position of the front panel is generally parallel to the back of the person. The primary back panel is securely attached to a secondary back panel along the top edge and elastically attached along the sides forming a pocket in-between the back panels. When placed over the back chair rest, the pocket supports the backpack behind the chair. Thermal gradient pads and vibrational generation provide enhanced benefits of the backpack to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Sparks International Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Krueger, Ronald A. Perez
  • Patent number: 5893504
    Abstract: A backpack for carrying foldable chairs and other accessories comprises an outer envelope open at one end into which a foldable chair is placed, a pair of spaced straps mounted at one end to the outer surface of the backpack and extending over the outwardly extending legs of the chair and being removably coupled to a mating strap attached to the mid point of the opposite outer surface of the backpack. The backpack further includes a first zippered compartment extending horizontally across the outer surface and including a mesh pocket mounted at an intermediate position thereon. A drawstring is mounted along each end of the envelope opening to secure the chair in place. The backpack also includes a reinforcing strap mounted horizontally to the surface at the upper end thereof and having one end of a pair of shoulder straps mounted thereto at an intermediate position and a handle mounted thereto at the upper portion of said reinforcing strap to be used with a second handle on the other side of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Inventors: Lee Baronian, Peter Marzulli
  • Patent number: 5881932
    Abstract: A bag is convertible between a hand-held bag, a shoulder bag and a backpack. The bag includes a bag body defining an interior storage space. A top handle is positioned on a top portion of the body. The bag includes a pair of discrete, separate shoulder straps and a pair of independently operable shoulder strap retraction systems. Each of the retraction systems includes at least one reel-type winding device operably connected to a respective strap for storing and selectively retracting and withdrawing a portion of the respective shoulder straps. Each reel-type device is positioned in the bag at least in part within the interior storage space, and overlying a respective opening in the bag to withdraw and retract the respective shoulder strap therefrom. Each strap is selectively positionable at a retracted position, a withdrawn position, and an intermediate position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventor: Michael M. Wadden
  • Patent number: 5860769
    Abstract: A buoyancy compensator and support vest, harness or spider for supporting a diver's backpack, includes a pivoting fastener secured to the shoulder straps. A polyangular or triangular holder further distributes the weight of a load between the waist, back and shoulders of a user. A strap incorporating the pivoting fastener and/or the polyangular or triangular holder for use with a backpack or other back carrier or framework or support harness is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: SeaQuest, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott P. Seligman
  • Patent number: 5836489
    Abstract: A belt assembly is pivotally connected to a load support structure of a load carrying system and includes a rear panel and a pair of lateral panels. The lateral panels are pivotally coupled to the rear panel. When the belt assembly is worn, the rear panel covers a user's lumbar region and the lateral panels wrap around the user's hips. The belt assembly includes a removable pad which is preferably connected to the rear and lateral panels by a hook and loop fastener system. A strap secures the belt assembly around the user's hips. The pivotal connections between the panels of the belt assembly and between the belt assembly and the load support system enable the belt assembly to afford a user considerable freedom of movement when worn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Johnson Worldwide Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Swetish
  • Patent number: 5806742
    Abstract: A rifle pack with shoulder straps including an elongated housing having a front face and a rear face integrally coupled to define an interior space with a top opening. The front face and rear face both taper inwardly from a top extent to a bottom extent thereof. A closure flap is included for selectively covering the top opening of the housing. Further provided are two thin rectangular shoulder straps coupled to the rear face of the housing. Finally, a utility pouch is included with a plurality of bellows coupled between side edges of a front face and rear face thereof. A flap is coupled to a top edge of the pouch for allowing selective access within the pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventors: Dennis L. Mott, William J. Goebel
  • Patent number: 5806740
    Abstract: An improved universal adjustable modular load backpack for carrying heavy loads to be used in conjunction with a multi-functional, soldier-centered, computer enhanced warfare system includes storage modules releasably mounted on a flexible pack frame extending the wearer's level of comfort and range of motion. The storage modules provide for a versatile pack load configuration and may be quickly withdrawn from the pack frame by the wearer without removing the pack frame. The pack frame is also provided with an integrated adjustment mechanism for selectively increasing or decreasing the length of the shoulder support straps and rib-cage straps of the backpack, and the distance between the waist belt and the pack frame so as to adapt to the wearer's torso and waist without having to remove the backpack from the wearer's back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Dennis Carlson
  • Patent number: 5803331
    Abstract: A carrier for doll-type toys is provided having a pocket like enclosure for carrying the doll-type toy in a partially displayed position. The enclosure includes a double wall section forming an envelope or bag, in which the doll-type toy is carried, and a single wall section, against which the doll-type toy is partially displayed. This single wall section extends beyond and above the double walled section. Carrying straps permit the enclosure to be carried on the back of a child, in back-pack fashion. The carrying straps are attached adjacent to the free end of the single wall section and at the side of the double wall section. A second and smaller pocket enclosure may be attached to the front face of the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventors: Jodi L. Thorne, Kathleen M. Sheehan
  • Patent number: 5775558
    Abstract: A harness-type securing system adapted for use in association with personal equipment comprising a harness assembly including at least two front straps, at least two rear straps and a central strap coupler, each strap having an inboard end and an outboard end, each strap including adjustment devices, the inboard ends of each straps being coupled to the center strap coupler, in an operative orientation a user positioning harness upon his torso; and at least two pouches, each pouch having at least one compartment and including securement means to firmly retain personal objects therein, each pouch being couplable to the harness to enable users to carry personal equipment in a suspended orientation from the harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Isabella Montalbano
  • Patent number: 5762250
    Abstract: A convertible carrying case and work platform for small electronic devices, particularly notebook computers, which is adapted to be used as a carrying case for the electronic device as well as a work platform. The carrying case has a case structure which holds the electronic device and a flexible top cover portion capable of forming a rolled portion that elevates the case structure when the case is supported in the wearer's lap and used when the wearer is sitting. The top cover, or a releasable bottom piece, may be rolled to form a rolled portion for use as an elevating device in sitting work platform position. A strap arrangement for the case permits a wearer to support the case over his shoulder to transport the device, or to position the case in a generally horizontal position in front of and against the abdominal area of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Truckin' Movers Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas David Carlton, Sherry McLean McQuage
  • Patent number: 5749503
    Abstract: A luggage container which conveniently converts for use as wheeled suitcase, a backpack and a hand-carry bag having a first and second compartment for storage of belongings. A pair of wheels are rotatably mounted to an axle which is at an edge along the bottom of the first compartment. A pair of shoulder straps are provided in the second compartment and are concealed by a cover. When the container is used as a backpack, the cover is opened to reveal the shoulder straps. The cover is wrapped over the wheels and secured to the bottom side of the first compartment. In this manner the traveler and the traveler's belongings are protected when cartage is on the traveler's back from filth that accumulates on the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Eagle Creek, Inc.
    Inventors: Katherine Wulf, Richard Steven Barker
  • Patent number: 5743447
    Abstract: A portable, variable capacity locker having detachable shoulder straps, wheels, a handle, at least one detachable compartment, and a expandable compartment, of which the intended primary use is for storage of books and schools supplies in lieu of a school locker. The locker defines a storage compartment having a top closure and an expandable lower portion. The expandable lower portion is defined by a flexible expansion sleeve, wherein the mating parts of a zipper, or other suitable closure, are respectively provided at the top and bottom edge of the expansion sleeve. By fastening together the top and bottom edges of the expansion sleeve, a circumferentially zippered wall is formed above the base. Thus, when the zipper is zipped and the sleeve is in a collapsed state, a functional and sturdy pack may be formed for shoulder transport by decreasing the storage compartment volume; when the expansion sleeve is in its expanded state (i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: Virginia B. McDermott
  • Patent number: 5738263
    Abstract: A disposable plastic back pack is formed from a thin sheet of plastics material. The sheet has a generally rectangular body portion that has a top edge, a bottom edge, and ends, and an elongated tail portion divided into two sections. The disposable back pack also includes a second sheet of thin plastic material that is generally rectangular in shape. The body portion is folded over onto itself at its ends forming a longitudinal flap extending from the top edge to the bottom edge, and the tail sections are folded over the folded body portion so that the distal ends of the tail sections are aligned with the top edge of the body portion. The second sheet of plastics material is then placed adjacent to and aligned with the unfolded side of the body portion of the first sheet of plastics material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Ann Lewis
  • Patent number: 5660312
    Abstract: A backpacking apparatus includes: a backpacking apparatus body in which an object is accommodated; and a strap for a backpacking apparatus which is connected to the backpacking apparatus body and is hung from a user's shoulder, the strap including a strap body and a length-adjusting member, the strap body having a length longer than a strap for a backpacking apparatus which is hung from another shoulder of the user, the length-adjusting member being provided on the strap body so as to adjust the length of the strap body by folding the strap body, the length-adjusting member being provided with an engaging/disengaging device having a first member and a second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Suzusho Trading Co.
    Inventor: Shoji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 5639004
    Abstract: A convertible carrying case and work platform for small electronic devices, particularly notebook computers, which is adapted to be used as a carrying case for the electronic device as well as a work platform. In a preferred embodiment, the carrying case has a case structure which holds the electronic device and a flexible top cover portion capable of forming a rolled portion that elevates the case structure when the case is supported in the wearer's lap and used when the wearer is sitting or in a reclined position, or, when the wearer uses the case while in standing position, spaces the case at a distance away from the wearer's body and provides a cushion between the case and the abdominal area of the wearer. A strap arrangement for the case permits a wearer to support the case over his shoulder to transport the device, or to position the case in a generally horizontal position in front of and against the abdominal area of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Truckin' Movers Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas David Carlton, Sherry McLean McQuage
  • Patent number: 5636778
    Abstract: A double strap system for golf bags includes a first shoulder strap having upper and lower ends attached to a generally tubular body of a golf bag at first and second locations, respectively. In one embodiment of the double strap system, the lower end of the first shoulder strap is connected to a buckle and slide mechanism which is provided for relocating the second location in a direction that is generally parallel to a length dimension of the golf bag body. A second shoulder strap has opposite ends attached to the golf bag body at third and fourth locations that are spaced apart in another direction that is generally transverse to the body length dimension. In an alternative embodiment of the double strap system, the lower end of the first shoulder strap may be connected to either one of a pair of attachment devices mounted on the golf bag body to thereby relocate the second location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: George H. Jones, Gregory M. Suggs
  • 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: 5630536
    Abstract: A carrying system which may be utilized for carrying video cameras, photography cameras and accessories, medical supplies, tools or recreational equipment therefor comprising two adjustable compartment bags that are each supported by an adjustable shoulder strap and an adjustable waist belt that when worn over the upper body provide a comfortable, balanced and accessible carrying system. Alternatively, both compartment bags may be re-configured and locked together to form a single shoulder bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Inventor: Mark S. Bugnaski
  • Patent number: 5622297
    Abstract: The holster includes two opposing barrel support strips adjustable in length and joined together at their forward ends through two over-lapping right angle legs adjustable in width and joined together by a selectively releasable connector to form a muzzle stop, and joined together at their rearward ends by a length of a sheath enclosed coil spring adapted to encircle the hand grip and to bias the barrel toward the muzzle stop. The two barrel support strips each have a forward portion and a rearward portion joined together by selectively releasable connectors and adjustable in length through a plurality of aligned holes on at least one portion. The holster includes a plurality of eyes to facilitate attachment to a shoulder harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Assignee: Safariland Ltd., Inc.
    Inventors: William H. Rogers, Norman E. Clifton, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5593077
    Abstract: In a shoulder strap assembly for a golf bag, a first shoulder strap extends longitudinally between spaced locations on the outer surface of the bag and a second shoulder strap has opposite connecting ends which are connected in close proximity to one another to the bag adjacent to one of the spaced locations to which the first shoulder strap member is connected and in such a way that the second shoulder strap will extend away from the bag in a generally loop-shaped configuration whereby the bag may be suspended by one or both shoulder straps from one or both shoulders of the golfer or caddy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Izzo Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore-James Izzo
  • Patent number: 5586699
    Abstract: A rectangular frame for supporting the backpack having a pair of shoulder straps, the frame including a pair of cross members and a pair of fittings for securing the shoulder straps to the frame, the fittings including a main section having a series of parallel slots, a semi-circular member at each end of the main section for securing the fittings to the cross members and a slotted ring mounted on each shoulder strap, the ring being of a size to pass through the slots and rotatable with respect to the shoulder strap to lock the strap in the slots in the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: Johnson Worldwide Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt W. Heisler, Richard S. Haddock
  • Patent number: 5586705
    Abstract: A height-adjustable carrying harness for a rucksack having a pair of shoulder straps connected together at a yoke. The yoke is engageable with a harness engaging system secured to the rear wall of the rucksack. The harness engaging system is comprised of a plurality of overlapping slat which define open ended sleeves into a selected one of which the yoke is inserted. The yoke is held in the sleeve by a tie strap which is fastened to a buckle located below the harness engaging system. The overlapping slats allow for fine height adjustment of the shoulder straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: Lowe Alpine Systems International Limited
    Inventor: James Leonard
  • 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