CN114929062A

CN114929062A - Repositionable compartment

Info

Publication number: CN114929062A
Application number: CN202080092197.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: V·G·桑兹; P·超
Original assignee: Tumi Inc
Current assignee: Tumi Inc
Priority date: 2019-11-27
Filing date: 2020-11-25
Publication date: 2022-08-19
Also published as: WO2021108695A1; US20230060535A1; EP4064926A1

Abstract

An improved carrying article having a collapsible outer compartment is disclosed. The carried article includes a body defining a main compartment, a pocket at a lower end of an outer wall of the main compartment, the pocket having a pocket wall and a pocket opening, and a collapsible outer compartment housed within the pocket and movable between a first position in which the collapsible outer compartment is tucked into the pocket and a second position in which the collapsible outer compartment is accessible from outside the pocket. The collapsible outer compartment has at least one fastener configured to secure a second end of the collapsible outer compartment to an outer surface of the carried article proximate the upper end of the main body such that the collapsible outer compartment provides the outer compartment when secured to the main compartment in the second position.

Description

Repositionable compartment

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 62/941,438 entitled "REPOSITIONABLE COMPARTMENT", filed 11/27/2019, according to 35u.s.c. § 119(e), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to carrying articles, such as luggage and other articles, having a multi-position collapsible outer compartment for carrying articles therein.

Background

Backpacks and other articles of portability typically include an outer compartment. Documents that may be relevant to the present disclosure include:

U.S. patent No. 9,119,448 discloses a carrying bag or backpack with an inflatable retainer. The bag includes a nylon mesh or other intumescent retainer sewn into the interior of the pocket, the pocket being closed by a closure means such as a zipper. The inflatable retainer device may be deployed when the pocket is open, and large items such as basketball, soccer balls, or items such as wet clothes may be placed in the inflatable retainer. The items within the inflatable retention member are securely held by a drawstring with a locking retention member to ensure that the inflatable retention member is closed, and then the top of the inflatable retention member is attached to a portion of a gym bag or backpack with a clamp or D-ring. The expansion retaining member is made of an expandable material.

U.S. patent No. 5,890,809 discloses a carrying bag with an expandable bottle pouch. The bag includes a pocket for receiving a pull-out bottle bag movable between a stowed position concealed within the pocket and a deployed position for supporting and carrying a conventional sports bottle or the like. In the stowed position, the bag is collapsed to fit into the pocket.

Disclosure of Invention

Aspects and embodiments of the present application relate to an improved carrying article, such as a backpack having a collapsible compartment. In some embodiments, the collapsible compartment may be secured to an outer surface of the carrying article. In some embodiments, the collapsible outer compartment has a first end that is secured to the lower end of the body of the carrying article and a second end that is secured to the upper end of the body of the carrying article to provide the collapsible outer compartment. In some embodiments, the second end of the collapsible outer compartment can be tucked into the pocket of the carrying article in a first position and removed from the pocket and secured to the upper end of the body of the carrying article in a second position. By this arrangement, an unfoldable collapsible outer compartment is provided which can be stowed in a pocket in the first position and which provides an additional outer compartment in the second position. With this arrangement, in the second position, the height of the deployable, collapsible outer compartment can be approximately the same as the height of the main body of the carrying article.

For example, the article of carrying may be any of a backpack, a briefcase, a tote bag, a wallet, a purse, a messenger bag, a duffel bag, a piece of athletic equipment, a suitcase including soft and hard shell luggage, and other bags. According to one embodiment, the carrying article is a modified backpack.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a carrier article includes a body defining a main compartment, the body including a front outer wall partially defining the main compartment. The outer wall has an upper end and a lower end. The main compartment has a first opening in the outer wall secured by a fastener to allow a user to access the main compartment and close the main compartment. The carried article has a first pocket located at the lower end of the outer wall of the main compartment. The first pocket has a first pocket wall and a first pocket opening. The carried article has a collapsible outer compartment having a first end and a second end. The first collapsible compartment has a first end attached to the first pocket wall and a second end free and configured to be tucked inside the first pocket opening. The collapsible outer compartment is configured such that it can be moved between a first position in which the collapsible outer compartment is tucked into the first pocket and a second position in which the collapsible outer compartment is accessible from outside the opening of the first pocket. The second end of the collapsible outer compartment has at least one fastener configured to secure the second end of the collapsible outer compartment to the front outer wall of the main compartment proximate the upper end of the main compartment such that the collapsible outer compartment provides the outer compartment.

In some embodiments, the collapsible outer compartment comprises a compartment wall and a compartment opening, wherein in the second position, the compartment opening and substantially all of the compartment wall of the collapsible outer compartment are located outside of the first pocket.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening is located near the second end of the collapsible outer compartment.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening is located between the first end and the second end of the collapsible outer compartment.

In some embodiments, in the second position, the collapsible outer compartment is positioned adjacent to the front outer wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first opening in the front outer wall is accessible through the collapsible outer compartment in the second position.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener comprises at least one of a button, a stud, a clasp, a clamp, and a hook.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener comprises at least one noose button receivable by at least one loop on the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the at least one noose button comprises two noose buttons and the at least one loop comprises two loops.

In some embodiments, at least one collar is located on the outer wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener comprises at least one clamp securable to a strap on the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first end of the collapsible outer compartment is attached to the first pocket wall by stitching along at least a portion of the first end of the collapsible outer compartment.

In some embodiments, the first pocket opening is secured by a first pocket fastener that can close and provide access to the first pocket.

In some embodiments, the first pocket opening is secured by zipper strip structure.

In some embodiments, the carrying article further comprises a rain cover configured to extend at least over the outer compartment when the outer compartment is in the second position.

In some embodiments, the carried article further comprises a second pocket positioned toward the lower end of the rear exterior wall of the primary compartment, the second pocket having a second pocket wall and a second pocket opening, the rain-proof cover having a first end and a second end, the second end being movable between a first position in which the second end of the rain-proof cover is tucked into the second pocket and a second position in which the second end of the rain-proof cover extends at least over the exterior compartment.

In some embodiments, the second end of the rain cover is configured to also extend above the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first end of the rain-proof cover is attached to the second wall of the second pocket by stitching along at least a portion of the first end of the rain-proof cover.

In some embodiments, the rain cover comprises a rain cover retention device.

In some embodiments, the rain cover retention device comprises an elastically stretchable cord.

In some embodiments, the carrying article further comprises a strap secured to the rain-cover, the strap configured to be secured to loops on opposing lateral edges of the rain-cover, such that the strap and loops are adjacent the back surface of the carrying article body to secure the rain-cover in the second position.

In some embodiments, wherein the carrier article body comprises a first material, and wherein the collapsible outer compartment comprises a first material, and wherein the first material comprises one of nylon, canvas, and leather.

In some embodiments, the carrier article body comprises a first material and the collapsible outer compartment comprises a second material. In some such embodiments, the first material comprises one of nylon, canvas, and leather. In some such embodiments, the second material is a void-free material and includes one of nylon, canvas, and leather.

In some embodiments, the carrying article is a backpack, and further comprises at least one shoulder strap.

In some embodiments, the front outer wall of the main compartment further comprises at least one additional zipper opening that is not covered by the foldable outer compartment in the first position and is covered by the foldable outer compartment in the second position. In some embodiments, the collapsible outer compartment in the second position is adjacent to and covers one or more additional zipper openings, but the one or more additional zipper openings are still accessible to a user.

In some embodiments, the front outer wall of the main compartment further comprises at least one additional zipper opening that is uncovered by the collapsible outer compartment in the first position and remains accessible when the collapsible outer compartment is in the second position, the collapsible outer compartment in the second position being adjacent to and extending vertically above the at least one additional zipper opening.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zipper opening comprises a key strip.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zipper opening comprises a webbing configured to include a pen ring.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zipper opening comprises at least one additional interior zipper pocket.

In some embodiments, at least one additional zipper opening includes a tracking device.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a carrying article includes a body, a first pocket, a collapsible outer pocket, and at least one fastener. The main body includes a front outer wall that partially defines the main compartment. The outer wall has an upper end and a lower end. The main compartment has a first opening in the outer wall. The first opening is secured by a fastener to allow a user to access the main compartment and close the main compartment. The first pocket has a first pocket wall and a first pocket opening. The collapsible outer compartment has a first end and a second end. A first end of the foldable outer compartment is attached to the first pocket wall, while a second end of the foldable outer compartment is free and configured to be tucked inside the first pocket opening. The collapsible outer compartment is configured such that it is movable between a first position in which the collapsible outer compartment is tucked into the first pocket and a second position in which the collapsible outer compartment is accessible from outside the opening of the first pocket. The at least one fastener is configured to secure the second end of the collapsible outer compartment to the body of the carried article such that the collapsible outer compartment provides the outer compartment.

In some embodiments, the first pocket is located at a lower end of the outer wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener is configured to secure the second end of the collapsible outer compartment to the main compartment front outer wall near the main compartment upper end.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener includes a first fastener portion including at least one of a button, a stud, a clasp, a clamp, and a hook.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener comprises a first fastener portion comprising at least one noose button receivable by a second fastener portion comprising at least one loop on the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, at least one ring is located on the outer wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first pocket opening is secured by a zipper strip arrangement.

In some embodiments, the carrying article further comprises a second pocket positioned toward the lower end of the rear outer wall of the main compartment, the second pocket having a second pocket wall and a second pocket opening, the rain-cover having a first end attached to the second pocket wall and a second end movable between a first position in which the second end of the rain-cover is tucked into the second pocket and a second position in which the second end of the rain-cover extends at least over the outer compartment.

In some embodiments, the second end of the rain shield cover is configured to also extend over the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the rain cover comprises a rain cover retention device.

In some embodiments, the carrier article body comprises a first material, wherein the collapsible outer compartment comprises the first material, and wherein the first material comprises one of nylon, canvas, and leather.

In some embodiments, the front outer wall of the main compartment further comprises at least one additional zipper opening uncovered by the collapsible outer compartment in the first position and accessible when the collapsible outer compartment is in the second position, the collapsible outer compartment being adjacent to and extending vertically above the at least one additional zipper opening in the second position.

In some embodiments, the first pocket is located along a side of the outer wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, each fastener of the at least one fastener comprises a first fastener portion at the second end of the collapsible outer compartment, the first fastener portion configured to engage a second fastener portion on the front outer wall of the main compartment to secure the second end of the collapsible outer compartment to the main compartment front outer wall near the opposite side of the main compartment.

It should be understood that any feature of any embodiment may be used with any aspect and embodiment, and it should be understood that they may be combined in any manner.

Drawings

Various aspects of at least one embodiment are discussed below with reference to the figures. The drawings are provided for purposes of illustration and explanation and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a backpack including a collapsible exterior compartment according to the present invention, wherein the collapsible exterior compartment is stowed in a first position;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the backpack of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the backpack of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the backpack of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the collapsible outer compartment partially removed from the first pocket;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the collapsible outer compartment substantially unfolded;

FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 showing fasteners of the collapsible outer compartment;

FIG. 8 is another partial perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1, showing fasteners secured to the foldable outer compartment of the front outer wall of the backpack;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the collapsible outer compartment fully deployed;

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the backpack of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1, with the rain cover partially deployed;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1, wherein the rain cover partially covers the backpack;

fig. 13 is a front perspective view of the backpack of fig. 1, wherein the rain cover substantially covers the backpack;

fig. 14 is a rear perspective view of the backpack of fig. 1, wherein the rain cover substantially covers the backpack;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the foldable outer compartment fully deployed and the rain cover deployed;

FIG. 16 is a cut-away front view of the backpack of FIG. 2;

FIGS. 17A-H are a set of views of another embodiment of a backpack according to the present disclosure; and

figures 18A-C are views of additional embodiments of backpacks according to the present disclosure.

List of reference numerals used in the drawings

With respect to the reference numerals used, the following reference numerals are used throughout the specification and drawings. Where technical features in the figures or detailed description are followed by reference signs, the reference signs have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the figures or detailed description. Thus, the presence or absence of a reference numeral is not intended to have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim element. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing.

Reference numeral 10 designates a carrier article;

reference numeral 11 denotes two shoulder straps;

reference numeral 12 denotes a main body;

reference numeral 13 denotes a main compartment;

reference numeral 14 designates a collapsible outer compartment;

reference numeral 15 denotes a bottom face;

reference numeral 16 denotes a first pocket;

reference numeral 18 designates a front outer wall;

reference numeral 19 denotes a bottom wall;

reference numeral 20 denotes an upper end;

reference numeral 22 denotes a lower end;

reference numeral 24 denotes a first opening in the outer wall;

reference numeral 26 denotes a zipper;

reference numeral 30 designates an additional zipper opening;

reference numeral 40 denotes a key band;

reference numeral 42 denotes a webbing configured to include a pen ring;

reference numeral 44 denotes a tracking device;

reference numeral 46 designates a first pocket wall;

reference numeral 48 designates a first pocket opening;

reference numeral 50 designates a first pocket fastener;

reference numeral 52 designates a first end of the collapsible outer compartment;

reference numeral 54 designates a second end of the collapsible outer compartment;

reference numeral 60 denotes a partition wall;

reference numeral 61 designates the bottom wall of the collapsible outer compartment;

reference numeral 62 denotes a compartment opening;

reference numeral 63 denotes a fastener;

reference numeral 64A designates a first fastener portion;

reference numeral 64B denotes another first fastener portion;

reference numeral 66A designates a second fastener portion;

reference numeral 66B denotes another second fastener portion;

reference numeral 67 designates the rear surface of the collapsible outer compartment;

reference numeral 70 denotes a rain cover;

reference numeral 71 denotes a rear surface of the main body;

reference numeral 72 denotes a second pocket;

reference numeral 74 denotes a second pocket wall;

reference numeral 76 designates a second pocket opening;

reference numeral 78 designates a first end of the rain cover;

reference numeral 79 designates a portion of the rain cover attached to the second pocket wall;

reference numeral 80 designates a second end of the rain cover;

reference numeral 82 denotes a passage for the elastic stretchable cord;

reference numeral 84 denotes a band;

reference numeral 86 denotes a ring;

reference numeral 100 designates a carrier article;

reference numeral 200 designates a carrying article;

reference numeral 211 denotes a tape;

reference numeral 212 denotes a main body;

reference numeral 213 denotes a main compartment;

reference numeral 214 designates a collapsible outer compartment;

reference numeral 215 denotes a bottom surface;

reference numeral 216 denotes a first pocket;

reference numeral 218 designates a front outer wall;

reference numeral 219 denotes a bottom wall;

reference numeral 220 denotes an upper end;

reference numeral 222 denotes a lower end;

reference numeral 224 designates a first opening in the outer wall;

reference numeral 226 denotes a zipper;

reference numeral 248 denotes a first pocket opening;

reference numeral 250 denotes a first pocket fastener;

reference numeral 252 denotes a first end;

reference numeral 254 denotes a second end;

reference numeral 260 denotes a partition wall;

reference numeral 262 denotes a compartment opening;

reference numeral 263 denotes a fastener;

reference numeral 264 denotes a hook member; and

reference numeral 266 denotes a ring.

Detailed Description

Aspects and embodiments relate to an improved carrying article, such as a backpack having a collapsible exterior compartment. In some embodiments, the collapsible outer compartment can be secured to an outer surface of the carrying article. In some embodiments, the collapsible outer compartment has a first end that is secured to the lower end of the body of the carrying article and a second end that is secured to the upper end of the body of the carrying article to provide the collapsible outer compartment. In some embodiments, the second end of the collapsible outer compartment can be tucked into the pocket of the carrying article in a first position and tucked out of the pocket and secured to the upper end of the body of the carrying article in a second position. By this arrangement, a deployable collapsible outer compartment is provided which can be stowed in a pocket in a first position and which provides an additional outer compartment in a second position. With this arrangement, in the second position, the height of the deployable, collapsible outer compartment will be approximately the same as the height of the main body of the carrying article.

Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. On the contrary, they are intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that any feature of any embodiment may be used with any aspect and embodiment, and it should be understood that they may be combined in any manner. Nothing herein is to be construed as requiring that any feature be limited to any combination of features.

Fig. 1-16 illustrate one exemplary embodiment of a carrying article 10 of the present disclosure. Fig. 1-4 show perspective, front, side, and bottom views of an exemplary embodiment of a carrying article with a collapsible outer compartment stowed in a first position. The carried article 10 comprises a main body 12 and a first pocket 16, the main body 12 defining a main compartment 13 (shown in figure 16), the first pocket 16 being for storing the foldable outer compartment 14 when the foldable outer compartment is not in use. The body 12 of the carrying article 10 includes a front outer wall 18 that partially defines the main compartment. The main compartment comprises a bottom wall 19 for supporting the goods in the main compartment, as shown in the cross-sectional view of figure 16. The outer wall 18 has an upper end 20 and a lower end 22. The upper end 20 is located at the upper end of the body and the lower end 22 is located at the lower end of the body, adjacent the bottom surface 15 of the body. To allow the user to access the main compartment, the main compartment has a first opening 24 in the outer wall 18. The first opening 24 is secured by a fastener, such as a zipper 26, to allow a user to access the main compartment and close the main compartment. It should be understood that any fastener customary in the industry may be used. According to various aspects and embodiments, the carrying article 10 is a backpack. The backpack comprises two shoulder straps 11.

A first pocket 16 for housing the collapsible, expandable compartment 14 is defined in the main body 12 of the carrying article 10, below the main compartment. The first pocket 16 is located at or near the lower end 22 of the outer wall 18 of the main compartment. As shown in fig. 5, the first pocket 16 has a first pocket wall 46 and a first pocket opening 48. The first pocket 16 has a first pocket volume sufficient to stow the collapsible outer compartment 14 within the first pocket. The first pocket opening 48 is secured by a first pocket fastener 50 that closes and provides access to the first pocket. The first pocket fastener 50 shown in the figures is a zipper strip construction, however, it should be understood that any fastener conventionally used in the industry may be used.

The collapsible outer compartment 14 allows the user to increase the carrying volume of the carried article. When a user wishes to carry a first article or group of articles having a volume less than the volume of the main compartment, the user can carry the first article or group of articles within the main compartment carrying the article. When a user wishes to carry a second item or group of items, which has a second volume greater than the remaining volume of the main compartment (when the user carries the first item or group of items in the main compartment), the user can unfold the collapsible outer compartment 14 to increase the carrying volume of the carried article.

Referring to fig. 5-6 and 9-10, fig. 5 shows a bottom view of the backpack with the collapsible outer compartment 14 partially removed from the first pocket. Figure 6 shows a side view of the backpack with the collapsible outer compartment 14 substantially unfolded, figure 9 shows a front perspective view thereof, and figure 10 shows a bottom view thereof. When a user wishes to carry items using the collapsible outer compartment 14, the user opens the first pocket 16 and pulls the collapsible outer compartment 14 out of the first pocket 16 (see FIG. 5). The collapsible outer compartment 14 has a first end 52 and a second end 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 52 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 is attached to the first pocket wall 46. For example, the first end 52 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 is attached to the first pocket wall 46 by stitching along at least a portion of the first end 52 of the collapsible outer compartment. It should be understood that the first end 52 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 may be secured to the first pocket wall 46 using any conventional means. In some embodiments, the first end 52 of the collapsible outer compartment is permanently secured to the body 12, while the second end of the collapsible outer compartment is removably secured to the body 12. It should also be understood that the first end of the collapsible outer compartment need not be secured to the first pocket wall 46. The second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 is free and configured to be inserted into the first pocket opening 48.

The collapsible outer compartment 14 has a compartment wall 60 and a compartment opening 62, the compartment opening 62 providing access to the collapsible outer compartment 14. The compartment opening 62 of the collapsible compartment 14 is located between the first end 52 and the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment. The collapsible outer compartment 14 is configured such that the collapsible outer compartment 14 is movable between a first position in which the collapsible outer compartment is tucked into the first pocket opening 48 and a second position in which the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 is accessible from outside the first pocket opening 48. In the first position, the collapsible outer compartment is stowed in the first pocket 16 carrying the article. In the second position, the compartment opening 62 and substantially all of the compartment walls 60 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 are located outside of the first pocket 16. In the second position, the user pulls the second end 54 of the foldable outer compartment out of the first pocket 16 and secures the second (free) end 54 of the foldable outer compartment to the body of the carried article, as described in more detail herein.

Referring to fig. 7-8, fig. 7-8 are partial perspective views of the backpack illustrating the step of fastening the fasteners 63 so that the collapsible outer compartment 14 is preferably secured to the front outer wall of the backpack. In some embodiments, each of the one or more fasteners includes a

first fastener portion

64A, 64B and a

second fastener portion

66A, 66B. In some embodiments, the

first fastener portions

64A, 64B are secured to the collapsible outer compartment 14, while the

second fastener portions

66A, 66B are secured to the body of the carrying article. In some embodiments, one or more

first fastener portions

64A, 64B include one or more buttons, one or more studs, one or more snaps, one or more clamps, one or more hooks, and/or one or more hook and loop fastener portions, or any other fastener known to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, one or more

second fastener portions

66A, 66B comprise fastener portions configured to mate with a corresponding first fastener portion, including, for example, one or more loops, one or more clasp receivers, one or more straps, and/or one or more hook and loop fastener portions. In the second position, the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 is preferably secured to the front outer wall 18 of the main compartment. To secure the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 to the front outer wall 18 of the main compartment carrying the article 10, the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 has two

first fastener portions

64A, 64B and

second fastener portions

66A, 66B secured to the front outer wall 18 of the main compartment. Specifically, the fastener 63 is configured to secure the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 to the outer surface 18 of the carried article 10 near the upper end 20 of the front outer wall 18 of the main compartment, such that the collapsible outer compartment 14 provides an outer compartment that is accessible to a user when secured to the main compartment in the second position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener 63 includes

first fastener portions

64A, 64B, the

first fastener portions

64A, 64B being noose buttons that are received by respective

second fastener portions

66A, 66B, the

second fastener portions

66A, 66B being loops on the outer wall 18 of the body 12. Specifically, fig. 7-9 illustrate a first and

second noose button

64A and 64B securable in first and

second loops

66A and 66B, respectively. In the preferred embodiment, a first collar 66A and a second collar 66B are located on the front outer wall 18, toward the upper corner of the body 12.

In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners 63 comprise a

first fastener portion

64A, 64B, the

first fastener portion

64A, 64B comprising at least one clip that can be secured to, for example, a strap on the outer wall 18 of the main compartment. In one or more embodiments, the

second fastener portions

66A, 66B comprise loops in a strap secured to the body of the carrier article.

In some embodiments, the loops are formed as a strip. In some embodiments, the loops are formed from a 20 mm to 40 mm wide strip of material. In one embodiment, the ribbon is 38 millimeters wide. In one embodiment, the ribbon is 25 millimeters wide. In some embodiments, the strap is formed from a webbing strap.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening 62 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 is located closer to the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment than the first end 52 (see fig. 9). In other embodiments, the compartment opening 62 can be approximately midway between the first end 52 and the second end 54. In some embodiments, the compartment opening 62 is substantially horizontal when the outer collapsible compartment 14 is in the second position (see fig. 9). In some embodiments, the compartment opening 62 is along a diagonal between the first end 52 and the second end 54 when the outer collapsible compartment 14 is in the second position. It should be understood that the compartment opening 62 can be anywhere between the first end 52 and the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14.

According to various aspects and embodiments, the bottom wall 61 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 has a bottom surface that is substantially flush with the bottom surface 15 of the body when the collapsible outer compartment 14 is in the second position. According to various aspects and embodiments, when the collapsible outer compartment 14 is in the second position, the rear surface 67 of the wall 60 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 is positioned adjacent to the outer wall 18 of the main compartment. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the collapsible outer compartment 14 does not prevent a user from accessing the main compartment when the collapsible outer compartment is deployed in the second position. With the collapsible outer compartment 14 in the second position, the first opening 24 in the main compartment is still accessible, as shown in fig. 9.

One advantage of the collapsible outer compartment is that it enables a user to carry different volumes of items at different times. For example, a user may commute with a first group of items in the main compartment. The user can then shop after work and bring items purchased en route to the collapsible outer compartment. For example, a user may carry debris in one or both of the main compartment and the collapsible outer compartment.

The operation of the carrying article of the present disclosure will now be explained with reference to fig. 1-4. Fig. 1-4 show backpack 10 with collapsible outer compartment 14 in a first position, wherein collapsible outer compartment 14 is concealed within first pocket 16. When the user wishes to expand the carrying volume of backpack 10, the user removes the collapsible outer compartment 14 from the first pocket 16, as shown in FIG. 5. The user pulls the second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 towards the upper end 20 of the front outer wall 18 of the body 12 as shown in figure 6. The second end 54 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 is secured to the front outer wall 18 of the main body 12 at the upper end 20 of the front outer wall.

The fastener 63 may then be tightened (the first and

second noose buttons

64A, 64B may be inserted into the

loops

66A, 66B), as shown in fig. 7-9. When the

noose buttons

64A, 64B are secured in the

loops

66A, 66B, the collapsible outer compartment 14 is configured to hold a second item or group of items. With this arrangement, the height of the collapsible outer compartment is preferably substantially similar to the height of the main body 12 of the carrying article 10. With this arrangement, the rear surface 67 of the collapsible outer compartment extends along and adjacent to the front surface 18 of the main body 12. It should also be understood that the collapsible outer compartment can be configured with different lengths (heights) and can be configured to attach to the body of the carrying article in various positions to provide various carrying amounts of the collapsible outer compartment.

Referring to fig. 10, a bottom view of the carrying article 10 is shown with the collapsible outer compartment 14 expanded. The bottom view shows that when the foldable outer compartment 14 is in the second position, the transverse width of the foldable outer compartment 14 is substantially similar to the transverse width of the main body 12 of the carrying article 10. However, it should be understood that the lateral width of the collapsible outer compartment may be less than the width of the carrying article 10.

Aspects and embodiments of the carrier article can include a deployable rain cover 70. Referring to fig. 11-15, fig. 11 is a partial perspective view of a carrier article with the rain cover 70 partially deployed. Fig. 12 is a front perspective view of a carrying article with a rain cover partially covering the backpack. Fig. 13 is a front perspective view and fig. 14 is a rear perspective view of the carrying article with the rain cover substantially covering the backpack with the collapsible outer compartment stowed in the first position.

Figure 15 is a side view of a carrying article with the foldable outer compartment fully deployed in a second position and the rain cover deployed.

To shield the carrying article, including the main compartment and the outer compartment 14, as well as other portions of the carrying article 10 from rain and elements, various aspects and embodiments of the carrying article 10 include a deployable rain cover 70. The rain cover can be stowed in the second pocket 72. According to some embodiments, the second pocket 72 may be located below the first pocket 16. Referring to fig. 11, the second pocket 72 is shown at the lower end of the body of the carrying article 10. According to various aspects and embodiments, the second pocket 72 may be located at the lower end of the rear outer wall of the main compartment. According to aspects and embodiments, the second pocket may be located at the lower end of the front outer wall 18 of the main compartment. It should be understood that the second compartment may also be included in the bottom surface 15 of the body 12 of the carrying article 10.

When not in use, the rain cover 70 is stowed in the second pocket 72 of the carrying article 10. The second pocket 72 has a second pocket wall 74 and a second pocket opening 76. The rain cover has a first end 78 and a second end 80. In some embodiments, the rain cover is not attached to the second pocket and can be completely removed from the second pocket for use. Alternatively, according to various aspects and embodiments, the first end 78 has a portion 79 that is attached to the second pouch wall 74, such as by stitching along at least a portion of the portion 79 at the first end of the rain cover or by a strap. Portion 79 may be made of a resiliently stretchable material to facilitate wrapping of rain cover 70 over body 12 and collapsible outer compartment 14 when collapsible outer compartment 14 is in the second position. In some embodiments, portion 79 is a resiliently stretchable band. The second end 80 of the rain cover is a free end. The second end 80 is movable between a first position in which the second end 80 of the rain cover 70 is tucked into the second pocket 72 and a second position in which the second end 80 of the rain cover 70 extends through the second pocket opening 76 and is extendable at least over the collapsible outer compartment 14.

When the collapsible outer compartment 14 is in the second position, the rain cover 70 is configured to have a size and volume sufficient to extend over the collapsible outer compartment 14. According to various aspects and embodiments, the rain guard 70 is sized and volumetrically configured to extend over the collapsible outer compartment 14 and over at least a portion of the body 12 carrying the article 10. As shown in fig. 15, the rain cover 70 extends over the top of the collapsible outer compartment 14 and the main body 12 such that the collapsible outer compartment opening 62 of the collapsible outer compartment 14 and the first opening 24 of the main body 12 are covered by the rain cover 70.

To secure the rain cover 70 over the collapsible outer compartment 14, the rain cover comprises rain cover retaining means. According to various aspects and embodiments, the rain cover retention device includes an elastically stretchable cord within the channel 82, as shown in fig. 14. To further secure the rain cover 70 over the collapsible outer compartment, the carrying article includes a strap 84 secured to the rain cover 70. The straps 84 are configured to be secured to the loops 86 on the opposite lateral edges of the rain cover such that the straps and loops are adjacent the rear surface 71 of the main body 12 of the carrying article 10 to secure the rain cover 70 in the second position.

When a user wishes to cover and protect at least a portion of the main body 12, the user deploys the rain cover 70. Fig. 11-14 illustrate the steps of unfolding the rain cover 70 when the collapsible outer compartment 14 is not unfolded. Fig. 11 shows the rain cover 70 removed from the second pocket 72 at the lower end of the body 12. Fig. 12 and 13 illustrate a subsequent step of extending the second end 80 of the rain cover 70 over the upper end 20 of the front outer wall 18 of the body 12. Fig. 14 shows a rear perspective view of the backpack of fig. 12, with the rain cover fully deployed and covering the main compartment carrying the article 10. As shown in fig. 15, the rain cover 70 can also be unfolded to cover the last portion of the body 12 of the carrying article 10 and to cover the collapsible outer compartment 14 with the collapsible outer compartment 14 fully unfolded.

Referring to fig. 16, a cut-away elevation view of the carrying article is shown. According to various aspects and embodiments, the front outer wall 18 of the main compartment further includes at least one additional zipper opening 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the front outer wall includes two zipper openings 30. In some embodiments, one or more additional zipper openings may include a key strip 40, as shown in fig. 16. In some embodiments, one or more of the additional zipper openings 30 may comprise a webbing 42 configured to include a pen loop. In some embodiments, the one or more additional zipper openings 30 may include at least one additional interior zipper pocket. In some embodiments, one or more additional zipper openings may include a tracking device 44. It should be understood that in the illustrated embodiment, each zipper opening 30 is uncovered by the collapsible outer compartment 14 when the collapsible outer compartment 14 is stowed in the first position, as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, each zipper opening 30 is covered by the collapsible outer compartment 14 when the collapsible outer compartment 14 is expanded in the second position. In some embodiments, each zipper opening 30 is uncovered by the collapsible outer compartment 14 when the collapsible outer compartment 14 is expanded in the second position.

In the embodiment of fig. 1-16, each additional zipper opening 30 is not covered by the foldable outer compartment in the first position and remains accessible when the foldable outer compartment is in the second position. The collapsible outer compartment 14 is adjacent to at least one additional zipper opening 30 and extends vertically above each additional zipper opening 30 in the second position.

The carrier article may be formed from a variety of materials. In some embodiments, the body 12 of the carrying article 10 comprises a first material and the collapsible outer compartment 14 also comprises the first material. In some embodiments, the first material comprises nylon, canvas, and leather. In some embodiments, the body 12 of the carrying article 10 comprises a first material and the collapsible outer compartment 14 comprises a second material. In some embodiments, the first and second materials may be any of nylon, canvas, and/or leather.

In some embodiments, the second material is a void-free material, such as nylon, canvas, leather, and or other materials. In a preferred embodiment, the second material is a void-free material, so that the items carried within the outer compartment are not directly visible (e.g., the second material is not a web).

Additional embodiments are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, fig. 17A-17H are a set of views of another embodiment of a carrying article 100 in a backpack format according to the present disclosure, with like reference numerals used to refer to like features in the embodiment 10 of fig. 1. Fig. 17A-17G show exterior views of the carrying article 100. Figure 17H shows a view of the main compartment 14 carrying the article 100 with the first opening 24 open.

Fig. 18A-18C are views of additional embodiments of backpacks according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 18A illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a carrying article 200 of the present disclosure. Figures 18B and 18C illustrate the steps of securing the ends of the outer compartment to the body of the carrying article.

The carrying article 200 includes a main body 212 and a first pocket 216, the main body 12 defining a main compartment 213 (shown in cross-section in fig. 18A), the first pocket 16 being for storing a collapsible outer compartment 214 when the collapsible outer compartment is not in use. The body 212 of the carrying article 200 includes a front exterior wall 218 that partially defines the main compartment. The main compartment includes a bottom wall 219 (shown in cross-section) for supporting the articles within the main compartment, as shown in the cross-section of figure 18A. Outer wall 218 has an upper end 220 and a lower end 222. The upper end 220 is located at the upper end of the body 212 and the lower end 222 is located at the lower end of the body, adjacent the bottom surface 215 of the body 212. To allow a user to access the main compartment, the main compartment has a first opening 224 in the outer wall 218. The first opening 224 is secured by a fastener, such as a zipper 226, to allow a user to access the main compartment and close the main compartment. It should be understood that any fastener conventional in the industry may be used. According to various aspects and embodiments, the carrying article 200 is a backpack. The backpack includes two shoulder straps 211.

A first pocket 216 for housing the collapsible, expandable compartment 214 is defined in the body 212 of the carrying article 200, proximate a lower end 222 of an outer wall 218 of the main compartment. As shown in fig. 18A, the first pocket 216 has a first pocket wall (not shown) and a first pocket opening 248. The first pocket 216 has a first pocket volume sufficient to stow the collapsible outer compartment 214 within the first pocket. The first pocket opening 248 is secured by a first pocket fastener 250 that closes and provides access to the first pocket. The first pocket fastener 250 shown in the figures is a zipper strip construction, however, it should be understood that any fastener conventionally used in the industry may be used.

The collapsible outer compartment 214 allows the user to increase the carrying volume for carrying the article. When a user wishes to carry a first article or group of articles having a volume less than the volume of the main compartment, the user can carry the first article or group of articles within the main compartment carrying the article. When a user wishes to carry a second item or group of items, which has a second volume greater than the remaining volume of the main compartment (when the user carries the first item or group of items in the main compartment), the user can unfold the collapsible outer compartment 214 to increase the carrying volume of the carried article.

Fig. 18B shows the collapsible outer compartment 214 extending from the first pocket 216, such as when the user is ready to expand or collapse the collapsible outer compartment 214. Figure 18C illustrates a front perspective view of the collapsible outer compartment 214 substantially expanded. When a user wishes to use the collapsible outer compartment 214 to carry items, the user opens the first pocket 216 and pulls the collapsible outer compartment 214 out of the first pocket 216 (see FIG. 18B). The collapsible outer compartment 214 has a first end 252 and a second end 254. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 252 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 is attached to a first pocket wall (not shown). For example, the first end 252 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 is attached to the first pocket wall by stitching along at least a portion of the first end 252 of the collapsible outer compartment. It should be understood that the first end 252 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 may be secured to the first pocket wall using any conventional means. In some embodiments, the first end 252 of the collapsible outer compartment is permanently secured to the body 212, while the second end of the collapsible outer compartment is removably secured to the body 212. It should also be understood that the first end of the collapsible outer compartment need not be fastened to the first pocket wall. The second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 is free and configured to be inserted into the first pocket opening 248.

The collapsible outer compartment 214 has a compartment wall 260 and a compartment opening 262, the compartment opening 262 providing access to the collapsible outer compartment 214. The compartment opening 262 of the collapsible compartment 214 is located between the first end 252 and the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment. The collapsible outer compartment 214 is configured such that the collapsible outer compartment 214 is movable between a first position in which the collapsible outer compartment is tucked into the first pocket opening 248 and a second position in which the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 is accessible from outside the first pocket opening 248. In the first position, the collapsible outer compartment is stowed in the first pocket 216 carrying the article. In the second position, the compartment opening 262 and substantially all of the compartment wall 260 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 are located outside of the first pocket 216. In the second position, the user pulls the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment out of the first pocket 216 and secures the second (free) end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 to the body of the carrying article, as described in more detail herein.

Figures 18B and 18C are perspective views of the backpack showing fasteners 263 fastened so that the collapsible outer compartment 214 is secured to the front outer wall of the backpack. In the second position, the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 is secured to the front outer wall 218 of the main compartment. To secure the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 to the front outer wall 218 of the main compartment of the carrying article 200, the carrying article has two fasteners 263. Specifically, the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 has two fasteners 263. Specifically, the second end of the collapsible compartment includes a first fastener portion configured to secure the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 to a second fastener portion located on the outer surface 218 of the carried article 200 proximate the upper end 220 of the front outer wall 218 of the main compartment, such that the collapsible outer compartment 214 provides an outer compartment accessible to a user when secured to the main compartment in the second position.

In some embodiments, each of the one or more fasteners includes a first fastener portion and a second fastener portion. In some embodiments, the first fastener portion is secured to the collapsible outer compartment 214 and the second fastener portion is secured to the body of the carrying article. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners include at least one first fastener portion, which is a clip that can be secured to a second fastener portion, which is a strap on the outer wall 218 of the main compartment. In the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners 263 include first fastener portions, which are hooks 264, that are received by corresponding second fastener portions, which are loops 266 on the outer wall 218 of the body 212. In particular, fig. 18B and 18C illustrate a first and

second hook member

264, 264 securable in a first and second loop ring 266, respectively. First and

second loops

266, 266 are located on the front outer wall 218 toward the upper corner of the body 12.

In some embodiments, the loops are formed as a strip. In some embodiments, the loops are formed from a 20 mm to 40 mm wide strip of material. In one embodiment, the ribbon is 38 millimeters wide. In one embodiment, the ribbon is 25 millimeters wide. In some embodiments, the belt is formed from webbing.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening 262 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 is positioned closer to the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment than the first end 252. In other embodiments, the compartment opening 262 can be about midway between the first end 252 and the second end 254. In some embodiments, the compartment opening 262 is substantially horizontal when the outer collapsible compartment 214 is in the second position. In some embodiments, the compartment opening 262 is along a diagonal between the first end 252 and the second end 254 when the outer collapsible compartment 214 is in the second position, as shown in fig. 18C. It should be understood that the compartment opening 262 can be anywhere between the first end 252 and the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214.

According to aspects and embodiments, when the collapsible outer compartment 214 is in the second position, the rear surface 260 of the wall of the collapsible outer compartment 214 is positioned adjacent to the outer wall 218 of the main compartment. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the collapsible outer compartment 214 does not prevent a user from accessing the main compartment when the collapsible outer compartment 214 is deployed in the second position. With the collapsible outer compartment 214 in the second position, the first opening 224 in the main compartment is still accessible, as shown in FIG. 18C.

Referring now to fig. 18A to explain the operation of the carrying article of the present disclosure, fig. 18A shows the backpack 200 with the collapsible outer compartment 214 in a first position, wherein the collapsible outer compartment 214 is concealed within the first pocket 216. When the user wishes to expand the carrying volume of the backpack 200, the user removes the collapsible outer compartment 214 from the first pocket 216, as shown in figure 18B. The user pulls the second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 toward the upper end 220 of the front outer wall 218 of the body 212 as shown in figure 18C. The second end 254 of the collapsible outer compartment 214 is secured to the front outer wall 218 of the body 212 at the upper end 220 of the front outer wall.

The fastener 263 can then be tightened (the first and

second hooks

264, 264 can be inserted into the loop 266), as shown in fig. 18C. When the clasps 264 are secured in the loops 266, the collapsible outer compartment 214 is configured to hold a second article or group of articles. With this arrangement, the height of the collapsible outer compartment is preferably substantially similar to the height of the body 212 of the carrying article 200. With this arrangement, the rear surface of the collapsible outer compartment extends along and adjacent to the front surface 218 of the main body 212. It should also be understood that the collapsible outer compartment can be configured with different lengths (heights) and can be configured to attach to the body of the carrying article in various positions to provide various carrying amounts of the collapsible outer compartment.

It will be appreciated that modifications can be made to the arrangement for securing the second compartment to the backpack. For example, the second fastener portion may also be positioned on the body of the backpack such that the second end of the collapsible outer compartment may be secured to the body of the backpack such that it covers at least a portion of the first opening defining the main compartment. However, it should be understood that with this arrangement, the main compartment may not be readily accessible with the second compartment secured in the second position and deployed (e.g., without securing at least one fastener of the second compartment).

The carrying article 200 can include a rain cover, such as rain cover 70 as shown and described above with respect to the carrying article 10.

As can be seen from the above description, the present disclosure provides a collapsible outer compartment that allows a user to carry an article in the collapsible outer compartment adjacent to the main compartment in which the article is carried. This allows the user to expand the volume of the carrying article as desired. Some advantages of the present disclosure are that the collapsible outer compartment improves the aesthetic appearance of the backpack when it is hidden, and the collapsible outer compartment is held securely against the main body defining the main compartment when it is deployed.

The collapsible outer compartment is a strong extension of the main compartment, since it is supported at its upper end by two fasteners towards the opposite lateral sides of the main body carrying the article. In some embodiments, the collapsible outer compartment is made of the same material as the main compartment, or a similar material. In some embodiments, the collapsible outer compartment has a bottom wall with a bottom surface configured to be flush with the bottom surface of the body when the collapsible outer compartment is in the second position. This improves the function and appearance of the carrying article.

The collapsible outer compartment effectively serves as an extension of the main body of the carrying article. The present invention provides a carrying article having an attractive aesthetic appearance when the collapsible outer compartment is in the first position and the second position. The collapsible outer compartment is concealed within the first pocket when in the first position. The first pocket is located at the lower edge of the front outer wall so that it can be well hidden from the user. When the collapsible outer compartment is in the second position, the outer surface of the collapsible outer compartment has an appearance similar to the body of the collapsible article. When the rain cover extends over the main body and the foldable exterior compartment, the carried article has a substantially uniform appearance of the main body and the foldable exterior compartment.

In some embodiments, because the rain cover and the foldable outer compartment are secured at respective ends of the main body of the carrying article, respectively, the carrying article provides an integral structure, ensuring that the user always has both the outer compartment and the rain cover, as well as the main body of the carrying article. This also helps align the outer compartment and rain cover relative to the main body so that the user can expand the carrying volume of the carrying article at any time.

It should be understood that the article of carrying may also be a briefcase, tote bag, wallet, purse, messenger bag, duffel bag, sports bag, travel case including soft and hard shell luggage, and other bag receptacles that may be configured with a first pocket that receives a collapsible outer compartment.

While the disclosed subject matter has been described herein in terms of certain exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and improvements can be made to the disclosed subject matter without departing from the scope thereof. Thus, the specific features claimed below and disclosed above may be combined with each other in other ways within the scope of the disclosed subject matter, such that the disclosed subject matter should be recognized as also specifically directed to other embodiments having any other possible permutations and combinations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the systems and methods of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed subject matter. Thus, it is intended that the disclosed subject matter include modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is.

Claims

1. A carrying article, comprising:

a body defining a main compartment, the body including a front outer wall partially defining the main compartment, the outer wall having an upper end and a lower end, the main compartment having a first opening in the outer wall secured by a fastener to allow a user to access the main compartment and close the main compartment;

a first pocket having a first pocket wall and a first pocket opening; and

a collapsible outer compartment having a first end and a second end, the first end of the collapsible outer compartment being attached to the first pocket wall, the second end of the collapsible outer compartment being free and configured to be inserted into the first pocket opening, the collapsible outer compartment being configured such that the collapsible outer compartment moves between a first position in which the collapsible outer compartment is inserted into the first pocket and a second position in which the collapsible outer compartment is accessible from outside the first pocket opening; and

at least one fastener configured to secure a second end of the collapsible outer compartment to the body of the carried article such that the collapsible outer compartment provides an outer compartment.

2. The carried article of claim 1, wherein said first pocket is located at said lower end of said outer wall of said main compartment.

3. The carried article of claim 2, wherein the at least one fastener is configured to secure the second end of the collapsible outer compartment to a front outer wall of the main compartment proximate an upper end of the main compartment.

4. The carried article of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein said collapsible outer compartment comprises a compartment wall and a compartment opening, wherein in the second position said compartment opening and substantially all of the compartment wall of said collapsible outer compartment are located outside of said first pocket.

5. The carried article according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein said compartment opening is located near said second end of said foldable outer compartment.

6. The carried article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said compartment opening is located between said first end and said second end of said collapsible outer compartment.

7. The carried article according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein in said second position said collapsible outer compartment is positioned adjacent to said front outer wall of said main compartment.

8. The carrying article of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein said first opening in said front outer wall is accessible through said foldable outer compartment in said second position.

9. The carrying article of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one fastener comprises a first fastener portion comprising at least one of a button, a stud, a clasp, a clamp, and a hook.

10. The carrying article according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the at least one fastener comprises a first fastener portion comprising at least one noose button receivable by a second fastener portion comprising at least one loop on the front outer wall of the main compartment.

11. The carrying article of claim 10, wherein the at least one lasso button comprises two lasso buttons and the at least one loop comprises two loops.

12. The carrier article of claim 10 wherein said at least one loop is located on said outer wall of said main compartment.

13. The carried article of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said at least one fastener comprises at least one clamp securable to a strap on said front outer wall of said main compartment.

14. The carrying article according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first end of the collapsible outer compartment is attached to the first pocket wall by stitching along at least a portion of the first end of the collapsible outer compartment.

15. The carrying article according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the first pocket opening is secured by a first pocket fastener, the first pocket fastener being capable of closing and providing access to the first pocket.

16. The carrying article as set forth in claim 15 wherein the first pocket opening is secured by a zipper strip arrangement.

17. The carrier article of any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a rain cover configured to extend at least over the outer compartment when the outer compartment is in the second position.

18. The carrying article of claim 17, further comprising a second pocket positioned toward a lower end of the rear exterior wall of the main compartment, the second pocket having a second pocket wall and a second pocket opening, the rain cover having a first end attached to the second pocket wall and a second end movable between a first position in which the second end of the rain cover tucks into the second pocket and a second position in which the second end of the rain cover extends at least over the outer compartment.

19. The carrying article of claim 18, wherein the second end of the rain cover is configured to also extend over the primary compartment.

20. The carrying article of any one of claims 18 to 19, wherein the first end of the rain cover is attached to the second wall of the second pocket by stitching along at least a portion of the first end of the rain cover.

21. The carrying article of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the rain cover comprises a rain cover retaining means.

22. The carrier article of claim 21 wherein the rain cover retaining means comprises an elastically stretchable cord.

23. The carrying article of any one of claims 17 to 22, further comprising a strap secured to the rain-cover, the strap configured as a loop secured to opposing lateral edges of the rain-cover, such that the strap and the loop are adjacent a rear surface of the body of the carrying article to secure the rain-cover in the second position.

24. The carrying article of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the body of the carrying article comprises a first material, wherein the collapsible outer compartment comprises the first material, and wherein the first material comprises one of nylon, canvas, and leather.

25. The carrying article according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the carrying article is a backpack and further comprises at least one shoulder strap.

26. The carried article of any of claims 1 to 25, wherein said front outer wall of said main compartment further comprises at least one additional zipper opening, said foldable outer compartment in said first position not covering said additional zipper opening and still accessible when said foldable outer compartment is in said second position, said foldable outer compartment in said second position extending vertically above and adjacent to said at least one additional zipper opening.

27. The carrying article of claim 26, wherein the at least one additional zipper opening comprises a key strip.

28. The carrying article of any one of claims 26 to 27, wherein the at least one additional zipper opening comprises a webbing configured to include a pen loop.

29. The carrying article of any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein said at least one additional zipper opening comprises at least one additional internal zipper pocket.

30. The carrying article of any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the at least one additional zipper opening comprises a tracking device.

31. The carried article of claim 1, wherein said first pocket is located along a side of said outer wall of said main compartment.

32. The carried article of claim 31, wherein each fastener of the at least one fastener comprises a first fastener portion at the second end of the collapsible outer compartment, the first fastener portion being configured to engage a second fastener portion on the front outer wall of the main compartment to secure the second end of the collapsible outer compartment to the front outer wall of the main compartment adjacent an opposite side of the main compartment.