TRANSPORTER CONVERTIBLE BAG

Abstract

A convertible bag for the carrying of items. The bag converts between a backpack carrying configuration and a single strap carrying configuration. The single strap is connected to the backpack straps such that the backpack straps are flush against the bag when the bag is carried in the single strap configuration. The disclosed subject matter has the advantages that no removable straps or adjustable straps are necessary, and no straps hang freely when the bag is carried in the single strap configuration.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This non-provisional application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/609,749, entitled "Safety Vest, Belt Pouch, Convertible bag," that was filed on Mar. 12, 2012. The disclosure of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/609,749 is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

U.S. GOVERNMENT RIGHTS N.A.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] This invention relates generally to bags used for carrying items and more particularly relates to a bag that can be easily carried as either a backpack or a single strap bag.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Various backpacks and bags are commonly available for the carrying of items. Different types of bags offer varying advantages and disadvantages. Backpacks allow users to carry larger loads for longer periods of times. Single strap bags, such as common shoulder bags, allow easier access to the bag's contents and can be more stylish. Thus, a bag that allows a user to carry it in either configuration is advantageous. However, existing convertible bags require swapping out straps, removing straps, adjusting straps or allowing straps to hang free when the bag is carried in the single strap configuration.

[0004] The subject matter of the present disclosure is directed to overcoming, or at least reducing the effects of, one or more of the problems set forth above.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] Disclosed is a bag that allows for easy conversion between a single contact position (SCP) (e.g., over-the-shoulder or handheld) carry configuration and a double contact position (DCP) (e.g., backpack) carrying configuration. The DCP straps are connected directly to the SCP strap so that the DCP straps remain flush against the bag while the bag is being carried in the SCP mode. The bag itself can be flexible, malleable, pliable, or firm and made out of any material capable of maintaining a given form including, but not limited to, any fabric, plastic, rubber or other natural or synthetic material. An advantage of the disclosed subject matter is that the transition between SCP and DCP configurations can be accomplished without the need for changing strap locations. Another advantage of the disclosed subject matter is that there are no loose hanging straps when the bag is carried in the SCP configuration.

[0006] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and descriptions provided. The foregoing summary is not intended to summarize each potential embodiment or every aspect of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG. 1 depicts a front isometric view of an embodiment. This view depicts a closing mechanism that allows access to the storage compartment of the convertible bag.

[0008] FIG. 2 depicts a back isometric view of the embodiment illustrating the manner in which the single and backpack straps are attached.

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a user wearing the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the disclosure, including a folding section.

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates the front of an embodiment with a folding section extended.

[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates the back of an embodiment with a folding section extended.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0013] FIG. 1 depicts the front view of an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. Convertible bag 101 has a front wall 102, a back wall 103 and a bottom wall 104. Single strap 105 and backpack straps 106 together form a convertible strapping mechanism. Optionally, front wall 102 and back wall 103 are formed from a single sheet of fabric and are sewn together along the vertical edges of the convertible bag. Optionally, a second material can be used to cover bottom corners 107. Alternatively, a covering made from a different material from walls 102, 103 and 104 can be sewn covering the entire lower portion of convertible bag 101.

[0014] A closing mechanism 108 is installed horizontally within the front wall, towards the top of convertible bag 101 to allow access to the storage compartment of convertible bag 101. Optionally, closing mechanism 108 can be any suitable means, including but not limited to zippers, hook and loop material, clasps, or snaps.

[0015] FIG. 2 depicts the back of the embodiment and the configuration of the straps. One end of backpack straps 106 are sewn in between front wall 102 and back wall 103 along the top horizontal edge of convertible bag 101 at attachment points 201. The second end of backpack straps 106 are sewn to the lower portion of back wall 103 at attachment points 202. One end of handle strap 105 is sewn to one of backpack straps 106 at connection point 203 and the other end of handle strap 105 is sewn to the other backpack strap 106. A distance L_t is defined as the distance between connection point 203 and attachment point 201. A distance L_b is defined as the distance between attachment point 202 and the top of convertible bag 101. A distance L_tot is defined as the total length of a backpack strap 106, as measured from attachment point 202 to attachment point 201. Optionally, the length L_t is approximately one fourth of the distance L_tot.

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates convertible bag 101 being worn by a user utilizing backpack straps 106.

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates a second embodiment of the disclosure in which there is a folding section 401 of convertible bag 402. Fastening mechanisms 403 attach to fastening receivers 404 to secure folding section 401 so that convertible bag 402 can be carried.

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates the front of convertible bag 402 with folding section 401 extended.

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates the back of convertible bag 402 with folding section 401.

[0020] The foregoing description of preferred and other embodiments is not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the inventive concepts conceived of by the Applicant. In exchange for disclosing the inventive concepts contained herein, the Applicant desire all patent rights afforded by the appended claims. Therefore, it is intended that the appended claims include all modifications and alterations to the full extent that they come within the scope of the following claims or equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A convertible bag comprising: a bag; a first and second backpack strap, each attached at one end to a bottom corner of the back of said bag and at the other end to the top of said bag, in a manner effective to allow said bag to be carried as a backpack; and a handle strap attached at one end to said first backpack strap and attached at the other end to said second backpack strap in a manner effective to allow said bag to be carried by said handle strap while said first and second backpack straps remain flush against said bag.

2. The convertible bag of claim 1, wherein said convertible bag is substantially flexible.

3. The convertible bag of claim 1, wherein said convertible bag is substantially firm.

4. The convertible bag of claim 1, further comprising: an opening in said bag sufficient to allow access to a storage compartment of said bag; and a closing mechanism effective to secure said opening to said storage compartment.

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