Convertible Patents (Class 383/4)
  • Patent number: 5787504
    Abstract: A foldable bag attached to a fabric article mainly including a fabric article, such as a coat, and small and larger bag sewn at one edge to the fabric article, such that the fabric article can be easily folded and received in the small bag via an opening of the small bag, and the small bag with the fabric-made article received therein can be easily contained in the larger bag by turning the big bag inside out. The larger bag also has an opening through which many other articles can be put into the larger bag along with the small bag and the folded fabric article packed in the small bag for convenient carrying and managment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Jiao-Yih Wu
  • Patent number: 5785219
    Abstract: A combination knapsack including a mat permanently attached to one of the walls of a main storage compartment and a flap permanently attached to another of the walls of the main storage compartment. In a storage mode of use, the mat is completely retained within the main storage compartment of the knapsack and the flap covers the opening to the main storage compartment. In an operational mode of use, the mat is fully extended outside the knapsack and the flap is either on the knapsack or on the mat to be used as a headrest or pillow. In another embodiment, the knapsack further comprises a blanket that may be closed about the legs of the wearer in a sitting position and an insulating handwarming muff.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: The Pack Company
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Kraft
  • Patent number: 5785427
    Abstract: A convertible seat and tote bag apparatus includes a first panel foldable relative to a second panel. A support member is adapted to interconnect the first panel and second panel so that when a person sits on one of the panels, the support member restrains rearward movement of the other panel as the person leans against the other panel. In one aspect of the invention, a pair of connectors extend from opposite side edges of the first panel and are adapted to be removably attached to corresponding side edges of the second panel to define a tote bag. In another aspect of the invention, a connector is attached to one of the first and second panels and is adapted to releasably engage the support member to define a handle when the apparatus is configured as a tote bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: High Sierra Sport Company
    Inventor: Donald Godshaw
  • Patent number: 5770284
    Abstract: A towel having an integrated pocket includes a sheet of fabric material having two spaced-apart vertical folds formed in the sheet. The folds divide the sheet into first and second folded sections and an unfolded section intermediate the first and second folded sections. The first and second folded sections are connected to each other along at least part of the first and second folded sections adjacent the upper part of the sheet of fabric material. The first and second folded sections are connected to the unfolded section along a line extending generally horizontally and contacting the lower end of the connection of the first and second folded sections such that the sections cooperate to form an integrated pocket having an interior volume, a top opening and walls defined by the first and second folded sections and unfolded section. Finally, a closure device such as a hook and loop fastener is mounted on the sheet adjacent the top opening of the pocket for securing items within the pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Coe Leta Logemann
  • Patent number: 5743405
    Abstract: An improved food storage container is formed from a container body having two sides separated by a shared edge, which defines an axis about which the two sides are adapted for movement between open and storage positions. The open position is defined by a substantially planar disposition of the two sides, while the closed position is defined by the formation of a substantially air-tight cavity. A seal extends around the three nonshared sides of the periphery of the first and second container sides. The seal is of a type that is readily adapted for repeated use, and forms a substantially air-tight seal when closed. Finally, a pair of symmetrically-disposed service flaps are provided and adapted for movement between active and stowed positions. In use, the service flaps are responsively attached to the two sides to fold out into the active position when the two container sides are motivated to the open position, and into the stowed position when the two container sides are motivated to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: Brenda C. Reid
  • Patent number: 5742944
    Abstract: A visored cap is disclosed herein with a crown having an internal storage compartment when not being worn by the user and is provided with an elongated or cutout opening in the visor for grasping as a carrying handle by the user. A detachable cover is carried about the sweatband of the cap crown for enclosing the internal storage compartment when used for storage. The visor includes a sliding panel, a pivotal panel or a snap-on panel for selectively closing the cutout opening when the cap is worn by the user wherein the panel is translucent or transparent for accommodating visual observation. The closure for the cover with the cap crown may be of zippered or hook and pile construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: Erich S. Pfefferman
  • Patent number: 5743649
    Abstract: A diaper bag which contains a number of separate compartments for maximum organization and accessibility, yet is easy to carry. It is comprised of basically a flat rectangular piece of material, to which other materials, both opaque fabric and see through mesh fabric, are sewn as compartments in a configuration designed to arrange the infant care accessories in an orderly fashion. On the opposite side of the main piece of material is yet another compartment sewn on as a pocket. This pocket is lined with plastic, and has three elastic bottle holders within. At either end of the bag straps are sewn on for ease of portability. To carry this bag, one need only fold it in half with the several pockets on the inside of the fold, secure the two ends of the bag with fasteners and carry it by its straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: Anita M. Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 5743636
    Abstract: Single bag quantities of blended cement and aggregate are mixed with water to form concrete using a flexible mat that is arranged with a shallow central basin bounded by a flat skirt. A plurality of handles, suitably four, are provided in the skirt near the mat edge. A sufficient amount of water to mix with a single bag or batch of pre-blended cement and aggregate is placed in the basin, and the batch amount of cement and aggregate is then poured onto the mat atop the water. Two persons grasp the mat by way of adjacent handles and mix the water with the cement and aggregate by alternately raising and lowering diagonally opposite mat handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: Walter L. Payne
  • Patent number: 5730529
    Abstract: A combination beach mat and carrying device. The mat has a pillow section and several storage sections closed by a closure having a flap to protect the closure from sand. Additionally, the mat has securing straps for binding up the mat for easy transportation, and a carrying strap for carrying the bound up contents. The carrying strap is located along the seam of the pillow and mat sections. The securing straps are extended beyond the bounds of the mat to be located out of the way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventors: Kyle D. Fritz, Margaret E. Fritz
  • Patent number: 5724672
    Abstract: A convertible shoulder bag structure which, besides the double functions of carrying either on one shoulder or both shoulders, can also be converted into a dress or be stored up in a little pocket for easy carrying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: Kui-Sen Chen
  • Patent number: 5722220
    Abstract: An apparatus manufactured from a single sheet of flexible material. The sheet includes a plurality of peripheral sections, wherein at least one of the sections includes an opening through which remaining sections may be passed to gather and enclose material contained within the sheet. Preferably, the sheet is in the shape of a square, and includes a pair of slits in adjacent corners of the sheet. In use, the instant invention is laid on the ground in an area near the material to be bagged. The individual then places the material onto the sheet until the sheet is full. Once the sheet is full, one of the unslitted corners is pulled across the sheet to the farthest corner having a slit. The unslitted end is then pulled through the slit such that a portion of the unslitted end is exposed on the other side of the sheet. Next, the other unslitted end is pulled across the sheet and through the remaining slit such that a portion of the second unslitted end is exposed on the other side of the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventor: Deenya Greenland
  • Patent number: 5709477
    Abstract: A device for the collection and transport of garden refuse, consisting of a lower piece (2), made for preference of a sliding material, in such a way that its two faces which are capable of sliding present a low coefficient of friction, the device thus resembling a bag, in such a way that the lower piece (2) comprises a broad sheet (7) capable of being folded back onto the bag in such a way as to bring together the handling grips (8 and 9). The device not only allows or garden refuse to be collected and moved, by dragging it like a sled, but likewise allows for the bag to be closed on itself in such a way as to allow or clean and practical transport of the refuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Assignee: Codefine S.A.
    Inventors: Piero Schinasi, Madeleine Schinasi
  • Patent number: 5704670
    Abstract: A glove bag includes a glove portion, an enlarged cuff portion, and a sealing strip arranged on an open rear end of the cuff portion. To use, the bag is worn over a hand, and the hand is used to pick up an article. The glove portion provides complete freedom of movement for the fingers to handle the article with precision. The glove bag is everted over the article to contain it, and the open rear end is sealed with the sealing strip. The article is thus isolated in the glove bag without being contaminated by the hand, and without contaminating the hand. The cuff portion is large enough to hold a variety of articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Donald Neil Surplus
  • Patent number: 5701979
    Abstract: A bag may be converted into a back rest. The fabric is folded to form a bag, and there is a zipper on one side. Three wooden structures are placed in the interior of the bag. These structures provide a back rest when the zipper is opened and the bag is unfolded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventor: Jan Harriet Voich
  • Patent number: 5693398
    Abstract: A versatile beach towel (10) comprising a circular piece of absorbent fabric (12). A binding (14) is attached to a circumferential edge (16) of the circular piece of absorbent fabric (12). The binding (14) has a hollow passageway (18) therethrough. A drawstring (20) extends through the hollow passageway (18) in the binding (14). When the drawstring (20) is pulled tight, the binding (14) will close up and the circular piece of absorbent fabric (12) will turn into a pouch (22) for holding objects therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Robert J. Granger
  • Patent number: 5688052
    Abstract: A beach towel and tote bag combination having a beach towel portion configured to accommodate a person. The bag portion is located at a corner of the beach towel and secured with a draw cord. Both secured and unsecured pockets are positioned on the inside of the tote bag when the beach towel is laid out. When the towel is rolled up and the bag turned inside-out, putting the towel inside the tote bag, the pockets are positioned on the outside of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Barbara Compton
  • Patent number: 5664886
    Abstract: A net for collecting leaves from a lawn. The inventive device includes a capturing web positionable in a flat orientation over a lawn. A closure assembly is mounted to the web and operates to pivot an outer peripheral edge of the web upwardly from the lawn and subsequently inwardly to trap debris in the net for disposal thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Dan A. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 5653337
    Abstract: A reversible tote bag of foldable construction for containing workmen's tools having a reversible folding wall with a reversible closure adapted to be changeable into multiple positions for ease of use and access, said reversible tote bag adapted for the storage, display, accessing and carrying of workmen tools having a unitary container panel that is closable to form a tote bag, openable to allow access thereto and reversible permitting the tote bag to be turned inside out, also a plurality of individual compartments adapted to contain workmen tools are provided and a transport device connected to the container panel for a workman to carry the bag in a plurality of modes, either by hand or on shoulders as with a knapsack. The reversible closure apparatus permits a workman to connect and disconnect the peripheral edge, so that the bag may move between at least five positions for ease of use and access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Inventor: Charles F. Cirigliano
  • 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: 5629071
    Abstract: The invention relates to a beach towel which can be converted into a bag for carrying various accessories. The towel is formed by an elongated sheet, to an upper central part of which a pillow assembly is secured. A pocket is formed between the flexible sheet and the pillow assembly to retain a folded towel after the pocket has been turned inside out. Secured between the elongated sheet and the pillow assembly are a pair of handles which become exposed on the outside after the pocket has been turned inside out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Big E-Z Investments
    Inventor: Yair Feldman
  • Patent number: 5622300
    Abstract: A roll pack (10) is formed from a sheet of material having first and second edges. A first storage pocket (12) is positioned along the first edge of the sheet of material. An enclosure (20) is positioned along a second edge of the sheet. A strap (26) is attached to the second edge of the sheet near the enclosure (20). The strap (26) may be confined by the enclosure (20). When extended the strap (26) is used to secure the sheet of material when rolled up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Inventor: Lawrence L. Robinson
  • 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: 5611625
    Abstract: A multipurpose bag includes top and bottom sections fastenable to one another. The top section is convertible to a mattress whereas the bottom section is convertible to a mattress or a chair. The top and bottom sections are provided with pockets for receiving insert material which functions as cushioning and/or provides flotation capabilities therefor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Inventor: Michel L. Legendre
  • Patent number: 5588749
    Abstract: A multifunctional bag device according to this invention can be used not only as an ordinary bag, but also to provide a variety of functions by itself or with a sheet and hood contained in the bag. The multifunctional bag device of this invention includes a bag 1 consisting of right and left bag members 1a, 1b that is designed to contain appropriate things in it, a single sheet 2 which is contained in the bag 1 in a folded state, and a hood 3 formed so that it can be loaded on the upper portion of the sheet via fasteners. The bag 1 has handles 6 at the top, and edges of the right and left bag members are connected to each other at the bottom 4, and with a fastener 5 or other opening/closing device which allows the right and left bag members to be unfolded. The sheet 2 is equipped with a fastener 7 or other opening/closing device at peripheral edges to allow a bag 8 to be formed by folding the single sheet in half.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Office Ishikawa Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiromi Ishikawa
  • 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: 5579540
    Abstract: A changeable shape clothing accessory which can be used as either a hat or a hand bag is made from foldable material forming an endwall, a sidewall and a collar or brim extending outwardly from the sidewall. The sidewall has a lower edge with a fold which reverses upon itself and which is secured outwardly of and back to the sidewall forming a thickened band around the accessory. The collar has an interior end trapped in the fold which forms the band. The band provides a reinforced region about which the different parts of the accessory are foldable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: Janice Walker
  • Patent number: 5577730
    Abstract: This invention consists of a flexible vinyl chess mat having two handles on opposite sides, both disposed in opposing positions to each other and centered on the perimeter of the square shaped chess mat, so that when the chess mat is folded in half, both handles line up with each other, making a doubled carrying handle. On one side of the chess mat a typical chess board is printed on the rubberized vinyl side. On the reverse side of the chess mat, when turned over, to expose the cloth backing side, a fastening means is positioned around the perimeter of the chess mat, and permanently attached, creating, when folded in half and fastened, an inside pocket area in which chess pieces and accessories may be carried and stored. The chess mat, when unfastened and emptied, and laid flat on a flat surface, is ready for chess play. The same mat can then be converted into a carrying case for convenient transportation and storage of chess pieces and accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventor: Michael A. Vannozzi, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5564539
    Abstract: A convertible tote bag includes a first collapsible side, a second collapsible side, and a collapsible sheath connecting the first and second collapsible sides. At least one closable opening is provided in at least one of the collapsible sides and sheath. A foldable base connects the first and second collapsible sides and the collapsible sheath. The foldable base comprises a first portion foldably connected to a second portion and a fastener for securing the first and second portions in folded relation whereby the first and second collapsible sides and the collapsible sheath may be secured therebetween. The foldable base further includes a closable pouch and strapping whose positioning, length, and configuration is defined by the type of bag desired to be converted to.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventor: Thirza A. Duensing
  • Patent number: 5561859
    Abstract: A multipurpose protective article having both body warming and item toting capacities, and having a front, a back, opposite sides, and a base, all of which are interconnected to provide a generally bag-shaped body open at its top and providing a pocket, the body being constructed of flexible thermal material, a rim on the body extending around the top thereof to provide a closeable opening into the pocket which is configured to have a foot receiving portion and a leg receiving portion for containing respectively the feet and legs of a user or to contain various items, the body further having one or more carrying straps affixed thereto for hand, arm or shoulder supporting of the article, and a closure devices on the rim for either partially or completely closing the opening and allowing the rim, selectively, to snugly surround the legs or to enclose the items within the pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: Jay R. Fischer
  • Patent number: 5551108
    Abstract: An infant cushion and cover combination including an integrated blanket and a cushion placed inside of a fabric cover. The fabric cover includes a blanket which is closable over the top of the fabric cover. With the blanket closed, an infant may be positioned between the top of the fabric cover and the blanket. The cushion has elevated edges that prevent an infant from rolling off the cushion. The cushion may be removed from the fabric cover and is then usable as a diaper changing pad with the moisture resistant cover in place over the cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Inventor: George D. Butler, III
  • Patent number: 5533653
    Abstract: A combination totebag and mat are disclosed formed from a generally rectangular-shaped towel having an upper edge and a plurality of panels, each panel having an upper edge, attached to the towel. The upper edge of the towel is substantially adjacent to the upper edges of the panels. A first panel is attached to the towel along all four edges. A second, third and fourth panel are attached to the first panel along three edges, leaving the upper edge open to form pockets between the panels. As such, there is a pocket formed between the first and second panel, the second and third panel, and the third and fourth panel. When the towel is in the unfolded position, the panels are underneath the towel and hidden from view. To place the towel in the totebag, the towel is folded back onto itself such that it is substantially overlying the fourth panel and is substantially the shape and size of the fourth panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventor: Mark S. Kaufman
  • Patent number: 5518313
    Abstract: A flat wrapping container assembly adapted to be folded to form a container having a frame-like support structure disposed therein. The assembly includes a thin, flat sheet of flexible wrapping material and a foldable support structure, which has a center panel and a plurality of outer panels forming frame arms extending outward from the center panel adhered to an inside surface of the sheet. The support structure further has fold lines between the center panel and the outer panels that are adapted to allow the outer panels to pivot upward above the center panel about the fold lines. A pull cord is attached to the flexible wrapping material and to the support structure and is adapted to draw the outer panels and portions of the sheet extending therebetween upward above the center panel when opposite ends of the pull cord are pulled outward away from the center panel, thereby forming a container around an article positioned on the center panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Indigo Corporation
    Inventor: Christine A. McAdam
  • Patent number: 5515635
    Abstract: Apparatus for providing a decorative cover for a flower pot comprising a collar wherein the collar clamps a sheet of material to the flower pot or wherein the sheet of material is connected to the collar and the collar is connectable to the flower pot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignees: The Family Trust U/TA, Southpac Trust International, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald E. Weder, Franklin J. Craig, William F. Straeter, Joseph G. Straeter
  • Patent number: 5515564
    Abstract: The present invention is a sun shield which can be easily attached and/or detached from most standard sized beach chairs. In another embodiment, the sun shield is attached to a frame which has a bag stretched around the frame to provide a carrying case for beach items as well as a comfortable pillow for the user to rest his/her head upon. Additionally, the sun shield may fold up to act as a handle, and to facilitate carrying that bag. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the sun shield is attached to a cooler which is designed to carry items in a cooling environment to or from the beach and/or the poolside. It also provides the user with a comfortable headrest to rest his or her head upon while sunbathing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas R. Lyons
  • 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: 5482374
    Abstract: A beach towel constructed with a polygonal center panel from which extend separate trapezoidal panels creates a towel with a substantially polygonal perimeter. The panels are sewn together to provide a strong reinforced structure, and a drawstring around the perimeter permits conversion of the towel into a bag-like structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Assignee: Innovision, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd J. Buhyoff
  • Patent number: 5480229
    Abstract: A device to be used alternatively as a bag and a mat comprises a piece of a flexible sheet material and releaseable fastening to confine said piece to the shape of a bottom with side walls which can be interconnected by edge connecting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: IM International, Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Onsri Thangsrirojkul
  • Patent number: 5476067
    Abstract: The disposable pet utility system (10) for providing prepackaged absorbent cat litter and the like for household pet care, includes a container (11) formed of a material and having creases at each of its corners for collapsing the container about its contents during shipment and disposal, and for erection during use. The container (11) includes a top wall (40), having perforations and creases formed in the top wall (40) to allow sections (41) and (42) of the top wall to tear and separate from each other to fold back reversibly and to be positioned underneath the container (11) for a rigid support. After contents of the container (11) have been used, the sections (41) and (42) of the top wall are resealed and the container (11) is collapsed so as to allow a compact and sanitary method of disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventors: Frankie A. R. Queen, Kevin R. Queen
  • Patent number: 5472280
    Abstract: A carrying bag which is foldable into a compact configuration so that it can be stored in a pouch, wherein an upper edge of a pouch wall is attached to the bag at an edge defining the bag opening and wherein the pouch includes a flap which can be used to close the pouch when the bag is inside and to close the bag when the bag is in its unfolded condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Lasker Harris
    Inventor: Peter A. Rittmaster
  • Patent number: 5469967
    Abstract: A carrier is provided for converting from a duffle-type bag to a folding, garment bag and vice versa. The duffle-type bag includes an oblong, soft-sided, expansible central compartment having an access through the top thereof. The garment bag includes a cover portion having a closure for receiving into a central compartment one or more garments such as suits, dresses, and the like. At least one hook may be provided for receiving a hanger holding the garments. The bag may be readily converted by a user from the duffle-type bag to the garment bag for the particular mode of transport and uses desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Charles A. Boorady
    Inventor: Charles A. Boorady
  • Patent number: 5467487
    Abstract: The novel portable multipurpose beach towel apparatus is comprised of an apparatus that is capable of providing the user with a great amount of flexibility, usefulness and simplicity in a small compact unit and at the same time provide optimum comfort for the individual. The apparatus is comprised of an extra long terry, absorbant cloth towel for use as a beach towel. At one end of the beach towel is an opening that functions as a duffel bag that can hold extra clothes and also encases an inflatable pillow that will provide extra comfort to the user. A flip out storage pouch provides space and easy access to accessories such as, suntan lotion, sunglasses and the like. The entire apparatus can be rolled up and used as a carry bag via the attached shoulder straps that leave the user's hands free.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Inventor: Pamela J. Sicard
  • Patent number: 5454644
    Abstract: Foldable object such as information carrier, container or the like, having two wings (1, 2) which can be folded and unfolded about a swing line (3), whereby wing surfaces (4, 5) are provided which fold down between the wings during folding and fold out from between them when the wings are unfolded and the object consists mainly of a shape having projecting and recessed fold lines, so that by folding the wings (1, 2) the wing surfaces (4, 5) can be arranged between the wings and that after unfolding the wings the shape forms an essentially flat surface, the shape having two main fold lines (6, 7) whose intersection point (8) lies on the swing line (3) of the two wings and whereby starting from the each intersection point (25) of the longitudinal fold lines (23, 24) with the main fold lines (6, 7), perpendicularly to the longitudinal fold lines (23, 24), recessed fold lines (26) parallel to the transverse fold line (16) are provided, characterized in that respectively parallel to the longitudinal fold lines (23
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Inventor: Andreas Augustin
  • Patent number: 5454125
    Abstract: A self-contained comfort device having a generally rectangular body portion and two pocket members disposed one on each surface of the body portion for containing the device when the device is folded and the pocket member is inverted thereabout. A generally rectangular resilient pad is incorporated within one of the pocket members. Preferably, the device is made with fleece on one surface and water-resistant material on the other. Customized logos may also be imprinted or embroidered on either surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Inventor: Randall J. Ratkowski
  • Patent number: 5454643
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Assignee: Fashion Towel Imports Corp.
    Inventor: William Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5450629
    Abstract: A hat has a shell of general hemispherical shape with an open bottom, a peripheral edge around the open bottom and an interior. A visor, having an inside edge and an outside edge, is flexibly attached along a section of the peripheral edge to the shell and extends substantially perpendicularly away from the shell. The visor has a plurality of fold lines extending from its inside edge to its outside edge. The fold lines allow the visor to be folded to a reduced size and tucked into the interior of the hat to form a purse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Inventor: Keith D. Gilstrap
  • Patent number: 5451107
    Abstract: A leaf and debris yard transport for holding and transporting leaves and debris from yards comprising a mouth having a generally concave left member and a generally concave right member, each member further having two free ends; a pair of hinges, each hinge coupled to a free end of the left member and a free end of the right member with the pair creating a pivotal axis therebetween for rotation of the members thereabout; and a container further having a flexible body with a space therein for holding items and an opening coupled about the periphery of the mouth for allowing access to the space, whereby reciprocating the members away from each other about the pivotal axis causes the mouth to open, thus allowing access to the space, and reciprocating the members toward each other about the pivotal axis causes the mouth to close, thus preventing access to the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Inventor: Melvin E. Ricker
  • 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: 5439154
    Abstract: A diaper bag for holding diapers and accessories used for baby care comprising a plurality of compartments, each compartment having a hollow interior bounded by opposed and spaced first and second side walls with a peripheral edge extended therebetween, each compartment having a sealable opening disposed thereon and extended peripherally across a portion of the peripheral edge with the remainder of the peripheral edge thus creating a pivotal connection between the first and second side walls and enabling the first side wall to be pivoted away from the second side wall when the opening is opened and enabling the first side wall to be pivoted towards the second side wall when the opening is closed, with the compartments coupled side-by-side in sequence with common sidewalls defined between adjacent compartments; a plurality of pockets disposed within the compartments and coupled to the side walls and common sidewalls thereof; and a transportable mechanism coupled to the diaper bag for allowing a user to manuall
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Inventor: Anna Delligatti
  • Patent number: 5433362
    Abstract: A carrying case for use on a vehicle sun visor and for use away from the sun visor has a rectangular case body having a periphery. The body is foldable in half at a centerline for dividing the front and the back sides into two halves each. A zipper is connected around the periphery of the case body for closing the case body when the case body is folded with the two halves of the front side facing each other. A pair of spaced straddling straps are connected to one of the halves of the front side for fixing the case body to a sun visor. A zipper pocket is on the back side of the case body as is a belt loop. A tapered flap is connected to one of the halves of the front side of the case body for holding sunglasses and a document pocket is connected on the other of the halves of the front side with a change pocket connected over the document pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventor: Gianpaolo Battaglia
  • 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