CA2964939A1 - Reconfigurable article - Google Patents

Abstract

A reconfigurable article comprises a frame structure and a flexible web of material connected to the frame structure. The reconfigurable article has a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the frame structure is a different size than in the second configuration.

Description

RECONFIGURABLE ARTICLE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to reconfigurable articles, and more particularly relates to reconfigurable articles such as combined infant mats and carrying bags, pet bed, combination pet beds and carrying bags, picture frames, knapsacks, totes, purses, pouches, rucksacks, backpacks, tool cases, haversacks, games, and so on.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Most articles used in modern society have one primary function. Only a few types of articles are econfigurable to be able to perform two functions.
Further, although some articles are reconfigurable to a different size and or shape, the structure that allows the article to be reconfigurable are either more complex than is desirable or are more difficult to use or reconfigure than is desirable.

[0003] Further, many articles that are not reconfigurable are used in conjunction with other articles that are also not reconfigurable, which necessitates the use of two articles where on article might suffice.

[0004] One area where this lack of reconfigurable articles is known to be significant is in the area of pads used for an infant to lay on or play on and also carrying bags used in conjunction with toys and supplies associated with infants.

[0005] In order to provide an infant with a comfortable and safe resting and/or playing surface, or to provide a comfortable and safe surface for changing diapers or generally attending to an infant, it is well known to provide a mat suitably configured and constructed so that an infant can lay down comfortably on it without actually touching the underlying supporting surface such as floor, an outdoor patio or the like, or even the ground. The provision of such a mat is done for reasons of cleanliness and comfort. It is also known to provide a barrier around such mats. A barrier would preclude an infant from rolling too far and rolling off the mat, or perhaps even preclude an infant from crawling off the mat, or at least slow down an infant from crawling off the mat if the infant has perhaps just begun to crawl.

[0006] For the sake of convenience, various types of combined mats and carrying bags exist, wherein the mat readily folds up to become a functional carrying bag and the carrying bag unfolds to become a mat.

[0007] In this area, the closest prior art is believed to be disclosed in United States Patent No. 5,035,013, issued July 30, 1991, to Bloom, and entitled Foldable Infant's Play Mat With Removable Side Guard. The portable infant's play mat has a cushioned base portion and a cushioned wall portion that follows the perimeter of the base portion. Securing means are provided to removably secure the wall portion to the base portion. Both the wall portion and the base portion are foldable along a bisecting axis. Handles attached to the base portion are provided opposite each other along an axis perpendicular to the bisecting axis, to provide carrying case when the mat is in a folded position. The securing means may be either a zipper or straps of hook and pile cloth which wrap around the wall portion. In an alternative embodiment, toys or other objects may be removably attached to such straps or alternatively patches of hook and pile cloth may be applied to the wall portion to allow such objects to be affixed thereto.
Optional pockets on the base of the mat are upright when the mat is folded in a carrying position and may be used to store objects during transportation of the mat.

[0008] It appears that the disadvantages of this prior art play mat include significant trade-offs in its fundamental features. It is stated in the patent that the perimeter wall has a cross-sectional diameter of about four inches for the purpose of safety, in order to provide a psychological barrier for keeping an infant on the mat.
Accordingly, the height cross-sectional diameter of the wall is a trade-off in that it is not quite high enough to provide a proper and substantial physical barrier, but instead provides only a psychological barrier, which is not as safe. In order to provide a proper and substantial physical barrier, it would seem a simple matter of merely increasing the cross-sectional diameter of the wall; however, if the wall is of greater diameter, it would be very difficult to fold at its fold line (at the bisecting axis) into its folded position, or in other words its carrying bag configuration.
Accordingly, in the carrying bag configuration, it would either be difficult to bring together the two pairs of adjacent wall portions adjacent the fold line, or alternatively there would be a gap between these two pairs of adjacent wall portions, which would likely permit articles to fall from the bag during use.

[0009]
Further, another significant disadvantage of the wall being a greater diameter is that it is it would be significantly heavier. It is also stated that the wall is constructed of a fabric shell containing fiber or foam batting similar to that used in the flat base. Indeed, for example, increasing the cross-sectional diameter of the wall from four inches to six inches, would provide a wall that is one and half times as wide and also one half times as high. Accordingly, the cross-sectional area of the wall would be two and one quarter times as great, which means the weight of the wall would also be two and one quarter times as great, which is unacceptable considering that such carrying bags are preferably lightweight.

[00010] The next closest prior art is believed to be disclosed in United States Patent No. 8,549,680, issued October 8, 2013, to Nichols, and entitled Portable Toddler Mat. The portable toddler mat comprises a large rectangular textile assembly similar in size to a beach towel having a water-resistant bottom surface, a comfortable inner layer of foam rubber, and a top layer of soft fabric. The top layer is held in place via a perimeter zipper which enables removal and laundering thereof. The pad is provided with a raised foam rubber edge to serve as a barrier to dirt and debris. The pad may be folded up compactly and secured using hook-and-loop-type fasteners and transported or attached to a stroller using a pair of carrying handles. The pad also provides an on-board stake-style umbrella to provide shade for an occupying infant or toddler at park or beach settings. There is no discussion of the raised foam rubber edge precluding an infant from rolling or crawling off the mat.

[00011] Another area where this lack of reconfigurable articles is known to be significant is in the area of picture frames.

[00012] In this area, the closest prior art is believed to be disclosed in United States Patent No. 5,546,689, issued August 20, 1996, to Bomze, and entitled Adjustable Picture Frame.' An adjustable picture frame for adjustably fitting around a picture comprises a first upper framing member having an adjustable wall portion, a second framing member having a series of interconnected adjustable walls, fastening members for securing the first framing member to the second framing member, a display member for holding a picture between the first and second framing members, selective positioning members for positioning the display member between the first and second framing members in a plurality of positions. The adjustable walls adjustably fit over a plurality of portions of the display member. This adjustable picture frame is more complex than is desirable and is more difficult to reconfigure than is desirable.

=

[00013] On an overall basis, the closest prior art is believed to be disclosed in United States Patent No. 9,307,854, issued April 12, 2016, to Myers, and entitled Reconfigurable Article Holder. A reconfigurable article holder comprises a sleeve defining a cavity and having an inner surface and an outer surface. The cavity receives and supports a container in a first container supporting configuration. The inner surface of the sleeve contacts the container. The sleeve includes first and second fastener portions which are mateable to form a container-surrounding opening operable to = receive and support a beverage container in a second container supporting position.
The outer surface of the sleeve contacts the beverage container. A strap having sufficient strength to support the weight of a beverage container attaches to the sleeve at one or more openings. The first fastening portion may be disposed on the inner surface of the sleeve. The second fastening portion may be disposed on the outer surface of the sleeve. The first and second fastening portions may be further mateable to form a storage configuration.

[00014] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article.

[00015] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that has a first configuration and a second configuration.

[00016] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that has a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is a different size than in the second configuration.

[00017] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that has a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is a different shape than in the second configuration.

[00018] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article, wherein the reconfigurable article comprises one or more of a combination infant mat and carrying bag, a combination pet bed and carrying bag, a pet bed, a picture frame, a knapsack, a tote, a purse, a pouch, a rucksack, a backpack, a tool case, a haversack, and a game, among other articles.

[00019] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that has a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the reconfigurable article comprises one or more of a combination infant mat and carrying bag, a combination pet bed and carrying bag, a pet bed, a picture frame, a knapsack, a tote, a purse, a pouch, a rucksack, a backpack, a tool case, a haversack, and a game, among other articles.

[00020] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that has a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is a different size than in the second configuration, wherein the reconfigurable article comprises one or more of a combination infant mat and carrying bag, a combination pet bed and carrying bag, a pet bed, a picture frame, a knapsack, a tote, a purse, a pouch, a rucksack, a backpack, a tool case, a haversack, and a game, among other articles.

[00021] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that has a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is a different shape than in the second configuration, wherein the reconfigurable article comprises one or more of a combination infant mat and carrying bag, a combination pet bed and carrying bag, a pet bed, a picture frame, a knapsack, a tote, a purse,, a pouch, a rucksack, a backpack, a tool case, a haversack, and a game, among other articles.

[00022] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that is foldable from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration and is unfoldable from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration.

[00023] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that is foldable from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration and is unfoldable from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration, wherein the folding and unfolding can be done quite easily.

[00024] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that is foldable from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration and is unfoldable from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration, wherein in the folded carrying bag configuration, there are no significant gaps between the portions of the walls adjacent the fold line or fold area.

[00025] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that is foldable from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration and is unfoldable from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration, which combined infant mat and carrying bag is lightweight.

[00026] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a reconfigurable article that is foldable from an unfolded configuration to a folded configuration and is unfoldable from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration, which combined infant mat and carrying bag is inexpensive to construct.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[00027] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel reconfigurable article comprising a frame structure and a flexible web of material connected to the frame structure. The reconfigurable article has a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the frame structure is a different size than in the second configuration.

[00028] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel reconfigurable article comprising a frame structure and a flexible web of material connected to the frame structure. The reconfigurable article has a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the frame structure is a different shape than in the second configuration.

[00029] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel reconfigurable article comprising a frame structure and a frame cover disposed in generally surrounding relation around the frame structure. A strap is disposed generally within the frame structure along at least most of the circumferential length of the frame structure. A graspable portion of the strap extends to the exterior of the frame structure and the frame cover so as to be readily graspable by a user's hand.
The reconfigurable article has a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the frame structure is a different size than in the second configuration. In use, the strap is manipulated to reconfigure the reconfigurable article from the first configuration to the second configuration and from the second configuration to the first configuration.

[00030] Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described herein below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00031] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the combination infant mat and carrying bag according to the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently known embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:

[00032] Figure 1 is a perspective view from above of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article according to the present invention, with the reconfigurable article in its first configuration and with an infant playing on it;

[00033] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, showing an infant resting on it and showing that the frame structure forms a perimeter wall that provides a barrier to horizontal movement of the infant thereon;

[00034] Figure 3 is a perspective view from the end from above of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, and showing a handle presenting itself for use at a first end thereof;

[00035] Figure 4 is a perspective view from the end from below of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, with the reconfigurable article facing bottom surface up;

[00036] Figure 5 is a top plan view of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, in a first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration;

[00037] Figure 6 is a perspective view from the side and below of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, with the frame cover that surrounds the support frame partially disassembled;

[00038] Figure 7 is a side elevational view of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, with the reconfigurable article being held by its handles and situated part way between its first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration, and its second configuration, which is a folded configuration;

[00039] Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, with the reconfigurable article being carried in its second configuration, which is a folded configuration, and with the two handles over the = shoulder of the person carrying it;

[00040] Figure 9 is a top plan view of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, with the reconfigurable article being carried in its second configuration, which is a folded configuration;

[00041] Figure 10 is a sectional end elevational view of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, with the reconfigurable article in its first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration, and taken along section line 10-10 of Figure 5;

[00042] Figure 11 is a sectional side elevational view of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, with the reconfigurable article in its first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration, and taken along section line 11-11 of Figure 5;

[00043] Figure 12 is a sectional side elevational view of the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 1, with the reconfigurable article in its second configuration, which is a folded configuration, and taken along section line 12-12 of Figure 9; and,

[00044] Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view from the side of a second illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article according to the present invention, with the frame cover surrounding the support frame partially disassembled;

[00045] Figure 14 is a top plan view of a third illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article according to the present invention, with the frame cover surrounding the support frame partially disassembled;

[00046] Figure 15 is a top plan view of a fourth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article according to the present invention in a first configuration;

[00047] Figure 16 is a top plan view of the fourth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 15, with the reconfigurable article in between a first configuration and a second configuration, and with the first end and the second end of the frame structure having been separated;

[00048] Figure 17 is a top plan view of the fourth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 15, with the reconfigurable article in between a first configuration and a second configuration, and with the frame structure shortened to a compacted length and with the flexible web of material not wrapped around the frame structure;

[00049] Figure 18 is a top plan view of the fourth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 15, with the reconfigurable article in a second configuration, with the frame structure shortened to a compacted length, and with the flexible web of material wrapped around the frame structure;

[00050] Figure 19 is a top plan view of a fifth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article according to the present invention in a first configuration;

[00051] Figure 20 is a top plan view of the fifth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 19, with the reconfigurable article in a second configuration;

=

[00052] Figure 21 is a sectional end elevational view of the fifth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 19, with the with the reconfigurable article in its first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration, and taken along section line 21-21 of Figure 19;

[00053] Figure 22 is a sectional side elevational view of the fifth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article of Figure 19, with the with the reconfigurable article in its first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration, and taken along section line 22-22 of Figure 19; and,

[00054] Figure 23 is a bottom plan view of a sixth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article according to the present invention.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS AND COMPONENTS
100 combination infant mat and carrying bag 101 first end 102 second end 103 left side 104 right side 105 upwardly facing top surface =
106 downwardly facing bottom surface 107 central area 109 infant 110 flexible web of material 117 internal carrying space 119 outer edge portion 120 frame structure 124 skeleton 125 interconnecting web 126 frame cover 127 hollow central passageway 127a first frame opening 127b second frame opening 129a first cover opening 129b second cover opening 130 at least one carrying handle 131 first carrying handle 132 second carrying handle 134 length of cord 140 articles 150 configuration securing mechanism 150a first securing portion 150b second securing portion it 12 length "H" height width "F" circumferential length "Cõ circumferential length 200 combination infant mat and carrying bag 220 frame structure 223 rigid rings 224 skeleton 225 interconnecting web 226 frame cover 300 combination infant mat and carrying bag 320 frame structure 323 colorful objects 325 interconnecting web 400 reconfigurable article 410 flexible web of material 411a first edge 411b second edge 420 frame structure 421 first end =

422 second end 426 frame cover 460 end securing mechanism 461 first securing portion 462 second securing portion "C" circumferential length 500 reconfigurable article 507 central area 510 flexible web of material 520 frame structure 524 skeleton 525 interconnecting web 526 frame cover 527 generally hollow central passageway 530 graspable portion 534 strap "Cl" circumferential length "C2" circumferential length "F" circumferential length (of the frame cover 526) 600 reconfigurable article 607 central area 616 picture 618 slots 619 flat pockets 620 frame structure 626 frame cover 627 generally hollow central passageway 630 graspable portion 634 strap "Cl" circumferential length circumferential length DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

[00055] Referring to Figures 1 through 23 of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1 through 12 show a first illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article 100 according to the present invention, Figure 13 shows a second illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article 200 according to the present invention, Figure 14 shows a third illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article 300 according to the present invention, Figures 15 through 18 show a fourth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article 400 according to the present invention, Figures 19 through 22 show a fifth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article 500 according to the present invention, and Figure 23 shows a sixth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article 600 according to the present invention.

[00056]
Reference will now be made to Figures 1 through 12, which show a first illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article according to the present invention, as indicated by the general reference numeral 100. In brief, the first illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the reconfigurable article comprises a frame structure 120 that acts as a perimeter wall 120 and a flexible web of material connected to the frame structure 120 by at least one portion of flexible material 126 that is in the form of a frame cover 126. The reconfigurable article has a first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration, as is best seen in Figures 1 through 6, 10 and 11, and has a second configuration, which is a folded configuration, as is best seen in Figures 8, 9 and 12. In the first configuration, the frame structure 120 is a different size than in the second configuration and the frame structure 120 is a different shape in the first configuration than in the second configuration. The reconfigurable article 100 could comprise a combination infant mat and carrying bag, a pet bed, a combination pet bed and carrying bag, a picture frame, a knapsack, a tote, a purse, a pouch, a rucksack, a backpack, a tool case, a haversack, a game, and so on.

[00057] More specifically, in the first illustrated embodiment the reconfigurable article 100 comprises a combination infant mat and carrying bag 100 and has a first end 101, a second end 102, a left side 103, a right side 104, an upwardly facing top surface 105, which is an infant receiving surface, and a downwardly facing bottom surface 106, which is a floor engaging surface. The frame structure 120 forms a perimeter wall for the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100 has a length "L", a height "H"
and a width "W". The frame structure 120 defines a central area 107 and, as can be best seen in Figures 3, 5, 10 and 11, and also surrounds the central area 107 of the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100. The frame structure 120 also defines a generally hollow central passageway 127 within its central core.

[00058] In the first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration, also known as an infant mat configuration, the combination infant mat and carrying bag functions as an infant mat. The reconfigurable article 100 is unfolded to a substantially flat shape and is generally planar, or in other is generally flat. Further, the flexible web of material 110 generally spans and/or covers the central area 107. As can be best seen in Figures 1 and 2, the frame structure 120 forms a perimeter wall 120 that provides a barrier to horizontal movement for an infant on the flexible web of material 110. Further, the frame structure 120 is substantially ring-shaped, has a circumferential length "C" and surrounds the central area 107.

[00059] As can be readily seen in Figures 3, 5, 10 and 11, the flexible web of material 110 is connected to the frame structure 120 so as to span the central area 107 and covers substantially all of the central area 107 in order to provide a full and complete pad for an infant 109 when the combination infant mat and carrying bag is in its first configuration, which is an infant mat configuration, as is best seen in Figures 1 through 6, 10 and 11. In the infant mat configuration, the flexible web of material 110 may cover substantially all of the central area 107 and as can be best seen in Figures 3, 4, 5, 9 and 10. As can be best seen in Figures 10 and 11, the flexible web of material 110 comprises a main pad that is suitably configured for an infant resting, lying, sitting, and/or playing thereon. The main pad may be padded as desired, by way of being a thick material or by way of having an internal pad (not shown), in order to provide sufficient comfort an infant' 109.

[00060] In the second configuration, which is the folded configuration, also known as a carrying bag configuration, the reconfigurable article 100 functions as a carrying bag. As can be best seen in Figures 8, 9 and 12, the reconfigurable article 100 is folded against itself, with the frame structure 110 being folded and being substantially "U"-shaped. The frame structure 120 provides an overall physical for the reconfigurable article 100 and the frame structure 120 is folded against itself, to together define an internal carrying space 117 for receiving and retaining articles 140 therein.

[00061] In the carrying bag configuration, the flexible web of material 110 is folded generally into a "U" shape and the perimeter wall 120 is folded against itself, as can be best seen in Figure 12, together define an internal space for receiving and retaining articles 140 therein. If desired, in the area where the perimeter wall 120 is folded against itself, the two contacting portions of the perimeter wall 120 can be retained together by any suitable fastening means including a slide fastener (such as a Zipper-rm), a hook and loop type fastener (such as Velcrorm), clasps, buttons, or in any other suitable fastening means, mechanism, apparatus, and the like. In order to accomplish this, the reconfigurable article 100 further comprises a configuration securing mechanism 150 having a first securing portion 150a and a second securing portion 150b. The first securing portion 150a is disposed on one or both of the frame structure 120 and the frame cover 126, and in the first illustrated embodiment, is disposed the frame cover 126 at the first end 101 of the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100. Similarly, the second securing portion 150b is disposed on one or both of the frame structure 120 and the frame cover 126, and in the first illustrated embodiment, is disposed the frame cover 126 at the second end 102 of the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100, generally across the central area 107 from the first securing portion 150a. When the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100 is in its second figuration, which is the folded configuration, the first securing portion 150a of the securing mechanism 150 and the second securing portion 150b of the securing mechanism 150 co-operate one with the other and work together to retain the frame structure 120 in the second configuration.

[00062] As can be readily seen in the Figures, in the first illustrated embodiment, the frame structure 120 comprises a skeleton 124 in the form of at least one helically shaped coil, and more specifically in the form of one single helically shaped coil, and is generally circular in cross-section. Accordingly, the frame structure 120 is single one-piece entity that extends around the entire perimeter of the flexible web of material 110 and along the entire circumferential length "F" of the frame cover 126.

[00063] The frame structure 120 can be made from any suitable material such as a substantially stiff yet flexible material such as a suitable metal material and/or a suitable plastic material, or any other suitable material. In use, as illustrated in the Figures, the frame structure 120 and therefore the skeleton 124 change size and/or shape in order to reconfigure to either of the first configuration (the unfolded configuration) and the second configuration (the unfolded configuration) and is shown to be bendable and flexible, as is best seen in Figures 7 and 8.

[00064] The rigid yet flexible material allows the frame structure 120 to act as a perimeter wall yet also be reconfigurable between the first configuration (the unfolded configuration) and the second configuration (the unfolded configuration) wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure 120 is a different size and shape than in the second configuration.

[00065] In the first illustrated embodiment, and as can be readily seen in Figure 6, the frame structure 120 further comprises an interconnecting web 125 that interconnects portions of the skeleton 124. The interconnecting web 125 comprises a cylinder of flexible material that is made from a suitable thin plastic material that is suitably flexible and lightweight. The interconnecting web 125 comprises a cylinder of flexible material and is secured onto the skeleton 124 to thereby make up the frame structure 120.

[00066] As can be readily seen in the Figures, and as can be best seen in Figure 6, in the first illustrated embodiment, the flexible web of material 110 is connected to the frame structure 120 by at least one portion of flexible material 126 that is disposed in generally surrounding relation around the frame structure 120. The at least one portion of flexible material 126 that is disposed in generally surrounding relation around the frame structure 120 comprises a frame cover 126.

[00067] In the first illustrated embodiment, the frame cover 126 is cylindrically shaped and comprises a web of flexible material. Even more specifically, frame cover 126 comprises a fabric tube that is closely but loosely disposed in surrounding relation around the frame structure 120. For the sake of convenience of manufacturing, and overall manufacturing cost reduction, the frame cover 126 and the flexible web of material 110 are formed from a common material. Any suitable type of material such as a fabric material, a quilted fabric material, a cloth material, and so on, could be used.
Also, the frame cover 126 and the flexible web of material 110 may be formed, at least in part, from the same piece of material for the purpose of ease of manufacturing and lowering manufacturing costs.

[00068] The combination infant mat and carrying bag 100 further comprises at least one carrying handle 130 retained in place by the frame structure 120. In the first illustrated embodiment, the at least one carrying handle 130 comprises a first carrying handle 131 disposed at the first end 101 of the combination infant mat and carrying bag and a second carrying handle 132 disposed at the second end 102 of the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100. The at least one carrying handle 130 comprises a length of cord 134 physically engaged with the frame structure 120 along the circumferential length "C" of the frame structure 120, so as to be generally retained by the frame structure 120. At least one graspable portion of the length of cord 134 projects outwardly so as to extend to the exterior of the frame structure 120 and the exterior of the frame cover 126 through at least at one opening in the cover, so as to be readily graspable by a user's hand to thereby present the at least one carrying handle, as will be discussed in greater detail subsequently.

[00069] More specifically the length of cord 134 extends through the generally hollow central passageway 127 of the frame structure 120. In the first configuration, which is an unfolded configuration, the at least one carrying handle 130 is almost substantially fully retained within the frame structure 120. Further, a short first portion 131 of the length of cord 134 projects outwardly from the frame structure 120 and the frame cover 126 through ,a first frame opening 127a in the frame structure 120 and through a first cover opening 129a at the first end 101 of the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100, to thereby present the first carrying handle 131. Similarly, in the second configuration, which is a folded configuration, the at least one carrying handle 130 is only partially retained within the frame structure 120. Further, a short second portion 132 of the length of cord 134 projects outwardly from the frame structure 120 and the frame cover 126 through a second frame opening 127b in the frame structure 120 and through a second cover opening 129b at the first end 101 of the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100, to thereby present the second carrying handle 132.

[00070] It can readily be seen that increasing the length of the graspable portion of the length of cord 134 that extends to the exterior of the frame structure 120 and the frame cover 126 urges the reconfigurable article 100, specifically the combination infant mat and carrying bag 100, to the second configuration.

[00071] In another aspect of the present invention, the reconfigurable article 100 comprises a main pad 110 having an upwardly facing top surface 105, which is an infant receiving surface, a downwardly facing bottom surface 106, which is a floor engaging surface, and an outer edge portion 119. The frame structure 120 forms a perimeter wall 120 that has a height "H" and a width "W", and is connected in surrounding relation to the main pad 110 at the outer edge thereof 119. The perimeter wall 120 has a generally hollow central passageway 127 along its circumferential length "C".

[00072] In a second illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article, as indicated by the general reference numeral 200, and as shown in Figure 13, it is contemplated that the skeleton 224 may be in the form of a plurality of substantially rigid individual rigid rings 223 disposed along the circumferential length "C" of the frame structure 220. The rigid rings 223 can be made from a suitable material such as a metal material or a plastic material, or any other suitable material. The plurality of individual rigid rings 223 are connected one to the next by an interconnecting web 225 that comprises a cylinder of flexible material that is made from a suitable thin plastic material that is suitably flexible and lightweight and is secured onto the skeleton 224 to thereby make up the frame structure 120. As can be readily seen, the frame structure 220 is generally circular in cross-section and extends around the entire perimeter of the flexible web of material 210 and along the entire circumferential length "F"
of the frame cover 226. The frame structure 220 and therefore the skeleton 224 change size and/or shape in order to reconfigure to either of the first configuration (the unfolded configuration) and the second configuration (the unfolded configuration) and is shown to be bendable and flexible.
= [00073] In a third illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article, as indicated by the general reference numeral 300, and as shown in Figure 14, it is shown that the interconnecting web 325 of the frame structure 320 is substantially transparent, and that the colourful objects in the frame structure 320 can be seen by an infant (not specifically shown in Figure 14).
[00074] In a fourth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article, as indicated by the general reference numeral 400, as shown in Figures 15 through 18, the reconfigurable article 400 is similar to the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article 100 except that the frame structure 420 is separated at a point along its circumferential length "C" so as to create a first end 421 and a second end 422. In the first configuration, the first end 421 and the second end 422 face each other and are securely yet separately connected one to the other. Also, the frame structure 420 is ring-shaped as in the first illustrated embodiment. There is also a separation in the flexible web of material 410 and the frame cover 426 as defined by first edges 411a and second edge 411b. The flexible web of material 410 may overlap slightly at the first and second edges 411a,411b.
[00075] In the second configuration, the first end 421 and the second end 422 are separated from each other and face in substantially opposite directions one from the other. The frame structure 420 is shortened to a compacted length whereat the first end 421 and the second end 422 are separated one from the other and facing in opposite directions one from the other. As can be readily seen, the compacted length of the frame structure 420 is less than one-tenth the circumferential length "C".
[00076] The fourth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article 400 further comprises an end securing mechanism 460 having a first securing portion 461 disposed adjacent the first end 421 of the frame structure 420 and a second securing portion 462 disposed adjacent the second end 422 of the frame structure 420. The first securing portion 461 and the second securing portion 462 of the end securing mechanism work together to retain the first end 421 and the second end 421 of the frame structure 420 in place one against the other in the first configuration.

[00077] In the fourth illustrated embodiment, the first securing portion 461 of the end securing mechanism 460 comprises a magnet and the second securing portion of the end securing mechanism 460 comprises a cooperating magnet, or alternatively, a ferrous-based piece of metal.
[00078] The fourth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article 400 could be a combination infant mat and carrying bag, a combination pet bed and carrying bag, a pet bed, a picture frame, a knapsack, a tote, a purse, a pouch, a rucksack, a backpack, a tool case, a haversack, and a game, among other articles.
[00079] In a fifth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article, as indicated by the general reference numeral 500, as shown in Figures 19 through 22, the reconfigurable article 500 is similar to the first illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article 100 except that in the fifth illustrated embodiment, the frame structure 520 has a longer circumferential length "Cl" in the first configuration than in the second configuration, and the frame structure 520 has a shorter circumferential length "C2" in the second configuration than in the first configuration. The fifth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article 500 comprises the frame structure 520 and a frame cover disposed in generally surrounding relation around the frame structure 520, in the same manner as in the first illustrated embodiment. The frame structure 520 is substantially ring-shaped, has a circumferential length "C1","C2" and surrounds a central area 507.

A flexible web of material 510 connected to the frame structure 520 by the frame cover 526.
[00080] As can be readily seen in the Figures, in the fifth illustrated embodiment, the frame structure 520 comprises a skeleton 524 in the form of at least one helically shaped coil, and more specifically in the form of one single helically shaped coil, and is generally circular in cross-section. Accordingly, the frame structure 520 is single one-piece entity that extends around the entire perimeter of the flexible web of material 510 and along the entire circumferential length "F" of the frame cover 526. The frame structure 520 also defines a generally hollow central passageway 527 within its central core.
[00081] The frame structure 520 further comprises an interconnecting web that interconnects portions of the skeleton 524. The interconnecting web 525 comprises a cylinder of flexible material that is made from a suitable thin plastic material that is suitably flexible and lightweight. The interconnecting web 525 comprises a cylinder of flexible material and is secured onto the skeleton 524 to thereby make up the frame structure 520.
[00082] A strap 534 is disposed generally within the frame structure 520, specifically within the generally hollow central passageway 527, along at least most of the circumferential length "Cl", "02" of the frame structure 520. As illustrated, the strap 534 comprises a length of cord 534 disposed generally within and extending through the frame structure 520 along almost the entire circumferential length "Cl", "02"
of the frame structure 520. A graspable portion 530 of the strap 534 extends to the exterior of the frame structure 520 and the frame cover 526 so as to be readily graspable by a user's hand. There may also be more than one graspable portion of the strap similar to the graspable portion 530, extending to the exterior of the frame structure 520, if desired.
=
[00083] The reconfigurable article 500 has a first configuration, as is shown in Figures 19, 21 and 22, and a second configuration, as is shown in Figure 20.
In the fifth configuration, the reconfigurable article 500 and the frame structure 520 are a different size than in the second configuration.
[00084] In use, the strap 534 is manipulated to reconfigure the reconfigurable article 500 from the first configuration, as shown in Figures 19, 21 and 22, to the second configuration, as shown in Figure 20, and from the second configuration to the first configuration. More specifically, to reconfigure the reconfigurable article 500 from the first configuration to the second configuration, the graspable portion 530 of the strap 534 is pulled outwardly from the frame structure 520 two, thereby lengthen the graspable portion 530 of the strap 534. Accordingly, the length of the strap 534 that remains within the generally hollow central passageway 527 of the frame structure 520 shortens correspondingly, thereby reducing the size of the frame structure 520 and the size of the reconfigurable article 500. It can readily be seen that the reconfigurable article 500 and the frame structure 520 are a different size in the first configuration than in the second configuration. More specifically, the frame structure 520 has a longer circumferential length "Cl" in the first configuration and in the second configuration and has a shorter circumferential length "C2" in the second configuration.
Further, the reconfigurable article 500 and the frame structure 520 are significantly wider and longer in the first configuration than in the second configuration. Also, it can readily be seen that the reconfigurable article 500 and the frame structure 520 are a different shape than in the first configuration than in the second configuration. More specifically, in the first configuration the reconfigurable article 500 and the frame structure 520 are generally oval-shaped and in the second configuration the first configuration the reconfigurable article 500 and the frame structure 520 are generally circular-shaped.
[00085] The fifth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article 500 could be a combination infant mat and carrying bag, a combination pet bed and carrying bag, a pet bed, a picture frame, a knapsack, a tote, a purse, a pouch, a rucksack, a backpack, a tool case, a haversack, and a game, among other articles.
[00086] In a sixth illustrated embodiment of the reconfigurable article, as indicated by the general reference numeral 600, as shown in Figure 23, the reconfigurable article 600 is similar to the fifth illustrated embodiment reconfigurable article 500 except that in the sixth illustrated embodiment the flexible web of material 510 is omitted.
The sixth illustrated embodiment, the reconfigurable article 600 comprises a frame structure 620 surrounding a central area 607 and a frame cover 626 disposed in surrounding relation around the frame structure 620. A strap 634 comprising a length of cord 634 is disposed generally within and extending through the frame structure 620, specifically =
within the generally hollow central passageway 627, along at least most of the circumferential length "Cr., "02" of the frame structure 620. A graspable portion 630 of the strap 634 extends to the exterior of the frame structure 620 and the frame cover 626 so as to be readily graspable by a user's hand.
[00087] The reconfigurable article 600 could be anyone of a number of articles, such as a picture frame. A picture 616 could be received and retained by slots 618 in the frame cover 626 or by flat pockets secured to the frame cover 626. The slots 618 or the flat pockets would typically receive the corners of the picture 616.
[00088] Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Further, other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the combination infant mat and carrying bag, of the present invention, without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims.
[00089] Other variations are within the spirit of the present invention. Thus, while the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, a certain illustrated embodiment thereof is shown in the drawings and has been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.
[00090] The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising", "having", "including", and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. The term "connected" is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.
All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as", "for example") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[00091]
Illustrated embodiments of this invention are described herein. Variations of those illustrated embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventor expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor intends for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications .and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims (45)

CLAIMS:

1. A reconfigurable article comprising:
a frame structure; and, a flexible web of material connected to the frame structure;
wherein the reconfigurable article has a first configuration and a second configuration;
wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is a different size than in the second configuration.

2. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 1, wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is substantially ring-shaped, has a circumferential length and surrounds a central area.

3. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein in the second configuration the frame structure is substantially "U"-shaped.

4. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein in the second configuration the frame structure is folded substantially against itself.

5. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 4, wherein, in the folded configuration, the frame structure and web of material together define an internal carrying space for receiving and retaining articles therein.

6. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 4, wherein in the first configuration, the reconfigurable article is unfolded to a substantially flat shape.

7. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 4, further comprising a configuration securing mechanism having a first securing portion disposed on the frame structure and a second securing portion disposed on the frame structure generally across the central area from the first securing portion, and wherein the first securing portion and the second securing portion of the configuration securing mechanism work together to retain the frame structure in the second configuration.

8. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein in the first configuration, the frame structure has a longer circumferential length than in the second configuration and wherein, in the second configuration, the frame structure has a shorter circumferential length than in the first configuration.

9. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein the frame structure is separated at a point along its circumferential length so as to create a first end and a second end, and is shortened to a compacted length whereat the first end and the second end are separated one from the other.

10. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 9, wherein the first end and the second end face in substantially opposite directions one from the other.

11. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 9, further comprising an end securing mechanism haying a first securing portion disposed adjacent the first end of the frame structure and a second securing portion disposed adjacent the second end of the frame structure, wherein the first securing portion and the second securing portion of the end securing mechanism work together to retain the first end and the second end of the frame structure in place one against the other in the first configuration.

12. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 11, wherein the first securing portion of the end securing mechanism comprises a magnet and the second securing portion of the securing mechanism comprises a cooperating magnet

13. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 9, wherein the compacted length is less than one-tenth the circumferential length.

14. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 1, further comprising a length of cord physically engaged with the frame structure along the circumferential length of the frame structure, wherein a graspable portion of the length of cord extends to the exterior of the frame structure so as to be readily graspable by a user's hand, wherein increasing the length of the graspable portion of the length of cord that extends to the exterior of the frame structure urges the reconfigurable article to the second configuration.

15. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 1, wherein the frame structure is a different shape in the first configuration than in the second configuration.

16. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein the frame structure is formed from at least one helically shaped coil.

17. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 16, wherein the frame structure is formed from one helically shaped coil.

18. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein the frame structure is formed from a plurality of individual rings disposed along the circumferential length of the frame structure, with the plurality of individual rings being connected one to the next by a cylinder of flexible material.

19. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein the flexible web of material is connected to the frame structure by at least one portion of flexible material disposed in generally surrounding relation around the frame structure.

20. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 19, wherein the at least one portion of flexible material disposed in generally surrounding relation around the frame structure comprises a frame cover.

21. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 20, wherein the frame cover is cylindrically shaped.

22. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 21, wherein the frame cover comprises a web of flexible material.

23. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 22, wherein the frame cover and the flexible web of material are formed, at least in part, from the same piece of material.

24. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 1, wherein the frame structure forms a perimeter wall.

25 The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein in the first configuration the flexible web of material generally spans the central area.

26. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein in the first configuration the flexible web of material generally is generally planar.

27. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 1, wherein the frame structure comprises a skeleton.

28. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 27, wherein the skeleton made from stiff yet flexible material.
29. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 27, wherein the frame structure further comprises an interconnecting web that interconnects portions of the skeleton.
30. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 29, wherein the interconnecting web is secured to the skeleton.
31. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 29, wherein the interconnecting web comprises a cylinder of flexible material.

29. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, further comprising at least one carrying handle retained in place by the frame structure.

30. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 29, wherein the at least one carrying handle comprises a length of cord disposed generally within the frame structure along the circumferential length of the frame structure, wherein a graspable portion of the length of cord extends to the exterior of the frame structure and the exterior of the flexible web of material so as to be readily graspable by a user's hand, thereby forming the at least one carrying handle.

31. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 30, wherein the frame structure defines a generally hollow central passageway and the length of cord extends through the generally hollow central passageway.

32. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 30, further comprising a cylindrically shaped cover of flexible material generally surrounding the supporting structure, and wherein at least a portion of the length of cord projects outwardly from the cover through the at least at one opening in the cover to thereby present the at least one carrying handle.

33. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 1, wherein the frame structure is bendable.

34 The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein the frame structure is flexible.

35. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein the frame structure is generally circular in cross-section.

36. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 2, wherein the flexible web of material substantially covers the central area.

37. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 1, wherein the flexible web of material comprises a main pad.

38 A reconfigurable article comprising.
a frame structure; and, a flexible web of material connected to the frame structure, wherein the reconfigurable article has a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is a different shape than in the second configuration.

39. A reconfigurable article comprising:
a frame structure, a frame cover disposed in generally surrounding relation around the frame structure; and, a strap disposed generally within the frame structure along at least most of the circumferential length of the frame structure, wherein a graspable portion of the strap extends to the exterior of the frame structure and the frame cover so as to be readily graspable by a user's hand;
wherein the reconfigurable article has a first configuration and a second configuration, and, wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is a different size than in the second configuration; and, wherein, in use, the strap is manipulated to reconfigure the reconfigurable article from the first configuration to the second configuration and from the second configuration to the first configuration.

40. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 39, wherein the frame structure has a shorter circumferential length than in the first configuration

41. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 39, wherein the strap comprises a length of cord.

42. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 39, wherein the frame structure is substantially ring-shaped, has a circumferential length and surrounds a central area.

43. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 39, wherein the frame structure defines a generally hollow central passageway and the strap extends through the generally hollow central passageway.

44. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 39, further comprising a frame cover disposed in surrounding relation around the frame structure.

45. The reconfigurable article according to Claim 39, wherein, in the first configuration, the frame structure is a different shape than in the second configuration.