CN115670091A - Handbag - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a bag, comprising: a housing defining sidewalls, an upper portion, a rim, an opening, a front, a back, and a lower portion, wherein the opening is configured to allow access to a storage compartment; a semi-rigid base defining a bottom of the bag, wherein the shell and the semi-rigid base form the stowage compartment; and a first interior divider panel attached to the sidewall and configured to transition from a first position to a second position, wherein the first position is a stowed configuration and the second position is in an extended configuration; a second interior divider panel attached to the sidewall opposite the first interior divider panel and configured to transition from the first position to the second position, wherein the first interior divider panel and the second interior divider panel are flush with the sidewall in the first position.

Description

Handbag

Cross reference to related patent applications

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application No. 17/093,173, filed on 9/11/2020, which is a continuation of U.S. application No. 15/903,867, filed on 23/2/2018, which claims priority to U.S. provisional application No. 62/463,308, filed on 24/2/2017.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to non-rigid and portable carrying bags or pouches for carrying or transporting various items by hand or by hand strap or handle placing the carrying bag over the shoulder.

Background

A carrying bag or hand bag may be one way for an individual to carry or transport various items, including large or bulky items. In some cases, the tote bag may be more portable than luggage, and may be made of strong cloth, leather, canvas, plastic, etc. The carrier bag may have an unsecured opening and may include large parallel shoulder straps attached to either side of the bag.

Disclosure of Invention

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of general concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the invention.

In one aspect, an example carrier bag may provide an individual with an easily portable bag that may be very durable, water impermeable, antimicrobial, and easily cleaned by flushing or otherwise with water from a hose. Other aspects disclosed herein may relate to tote bags and methods of manufacturing tote bags, the tote bags having one or more of the following: a storage compartment formed by the outer shell and the internal liner, (1) an outer shell defining a side wall, (2) an internal liner, (3) an opening configured to allow access to the storage compartment, and (4) a semi-rigid base configured to hold the carrying bag upright regardless of the contents of the storage compartment.

In another aspect, an example bag may include a housing defining a sidewall, an upper portion, a rim, an opening, a front, a back, and a lower portion, the upper portion may define an upper circumference of the bag, the lower portion may define a lower circumference of the bag, wherein the opening may be configured to allow access to the storage compartment. In some examples, the bag may further include a plurality of carrying straps, a semi-rigid base defining a bottom of the bag, wherein the shell and the semi-rigid base form a storage compartment, and the semi-rigid base may be configured to hold the bag upright. In other examples, the bag may include a first interior divider panel attached to the sidewall and configured to transition from a first position to a second position, where the first position may be a stowed configuration and the second position may be an extended configuration. In other examples, the pouch may include at least one inner pocket attached to the upper portion of the sidewall, and a top trim configured to surround the rim, and the top of the inner pocket may be attached to the upper portion of the sidewall.

In other examples, the bag may include a second internal dividing wall attached to the sidewall and configured to transition from a first position to a second position, and the first internal dividing wall may be positioned opposite the second internal dividing wall. In other examples, the first and second internal dividing walls may be flush with the side wall at the first location. In yet another example, the bag can further include a second inner pocket attached to the upper portion of the sidewall and positioned opposite the at least one inner pocket. In other examples, the bag may include a closure device configured to substantially close the opening of the bag, and a portion of the closure device may be positioned below the top trim. In some examples, the closure device may include a buckle configured to engage a loop of material positioned opposite the buckle. In another example, the bag can include a first upper material configured to surround an upper outer circumference of an exterior of the bag, and a top portion of the first upper material can be positioned below the top trim. In other examples, the bag may include a second upper material configured to surround an upper inner circumference of the bag interior, and the top portion of the first upper material may be positioned below the top trim. In some examples, the upper portion of the at least one inner pocket may be positioned below the second upper material and/or below the top trim. In other examples, the first and second upper materials may be secured to the sidewalls by stitching, and the top trim may comprise nylon. In one example, the shell may also include a bottom material configured to surround a bottom perimeter of the shell and a portion of the semi-rigid base.

In yet another aspect, an example bag may include a housing defining a sidewall, an upper portion, a rim, an opening, a front, a back, and a lower portion, the upper portion may define an upper circumference of the bag, the lower portion may define a lower circumference of the bag, wherein the opening may be configured to allow access to the storage compartment. In other examples, the bag may include a plurality of carrying straps, a semi-rigid base defining a bottom of the bag, wherein the shell and the semi-rigid base may form a storage compartment, and the semi-rigid base may be configured to hold the bag upright. In some examples, the bag may include a first interior divider panel attached to the sidewall and configured to transition from a first position to a second position, wherein the first position is a stowed configuration and the second position is in an extended configuration. In yet another example, the bag may also include a second internal dividing wall attached to the sidewall opposite the first internal dividing wall and configured to transition from a first position to a second position, wherein the first and second internal dividing walls are flush with the sidewall in the first position. In another example, the pouch may include a pair of inner pockets attached to the upper portion of the sidewall, and a top trim configured to surround the rim and a top of the pair of inner pockets attached to the upper portion of the sidewall.

In other aspects, an example bag may include a housing defining a sidewall, an upper portion, a rim, an opening, a front, a back, and a lower portion, the upper portion may define an upper circumference of the bag, the lower portion may define a lower circumference of the bag, and the opening may be configured to allow access to the storage compartment. In other examples, the bag may include a pair of upper straps, a pair of lower straps engaged with the pair of upper straps, a semi-rigid base that may define a bottom of the bag. The shell and the semi-rigid base may form a storage compartment, and the semi-rigid base may be configured to hold the bag upright. In another example, the pouch may include a top trim configured to surround the rim and a top of the inner pocket attached to the upper portion of the sidewall; first and second top materials; and an insert secured to the storage compartment. In other aspects, the insert may also include a first interior divider panel attached to the sidewall and configured to transition from a first position to a second position, wherein the first position is a stowed configuration and the second position is in an extended configuration. In other examples, the insert may include a second internal dividing wall attached to the sidewall opposite the first internal dividing wall and configured to transition from a first position to a second position. In some examples, the insert may be removable. In other examples, the insert may be attached to the sidewall.

In other examples, the pouch may also include a pair of inner pockets attached to the upper portion of the insert, and the top portion of the inner pockets may be positioned below the top trim. In some examples, the first and second internal dividing walls may be flush with the side wall at the first location. In other examples, the upper strap pair may be configured as a shoulder strap and the lower strap pair may be configured as a hand strap. In some examples, the first upper material may be configured to surround an upper outer circumference of an exterior of the pouch, and a top portion of the first upper material may be positioned below the top trim. In yet another example, the second upper material can be configured to surround an upper circumference of the insert, and a top portion of the second upper material can be positioned below the top trim. In some examples, the height of the first upper material may be the same as the height of the second upper material.

Drawings

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of embodiments, is better understood when considered in conjunction with the appended drawings. In the drawings, like reference characters designate the same or similar elements throughout the various views in which the reference characters appear.

Fig. 1 illustrates a right front perspective view of an example tote bag, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2A shows a right front perspective view of the example tote bag of fig. 1 without straps.

Fig. 2B shows a bottom perspective view of the example tote bag of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 shows another front right perspective view of the example tote bag of fig. 1.

Fig. 4A-4B show bottom perspective views of the example tote bag of fig. 1, and illustrate schematic diagrams of enlarged portions of the cross-sectional view of the semi-rigid base.

Fig. 5A shows a transparent front perspective view of the example tote bag of fig. 1, showing placement of the inner pocket 212 on the interior of the tote bag. Figure 5B shows an enlarged view of the inner pocket with zipper.

Fig. 6A shows a front view of another exemplary tote bag.

Fig. 6B shows a side perspective view of the example tote bag of fig. 6A.

Fig. 7A-7B show front views of another exemplary tote bag, and illustrate schematic diagrams of enlarged portions of the bag.

Fig. 8A shows an alternative front perspective view of an exemplary hand strap for the example tote bag of fig. 7A-7B.

Fig. 8B shows a schematic exploded view of an exemplary hand strap for the example tote bag of fig. 8A.

FIG. 8C shows a cross-sectional view of the hand strap configuration of FIG. 8B.

Fig. 8D is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an alternative hand strap configuration.

Fig. 9 illustrates another schematic diagram of an example tote bag including suggested dimensions for a particular embodiment.

Fig. 10 shows a schematic exploded front view of the exemplary tote bag of fig. 9.

Fig. 11A shows an alternative bottom view of another exemplary tote bag.

Fig. 11B illustrates a schematic view of an enlarged portion of the cross-sectional view of the semi-rigid base of fig. 11A.

Fig. 12A-12B show front views of another exemplary tote bag, and illustrate schematic diagrams of an enlarged portion of the bag including a MOLLE ring.

Fig. 13A-13B show front views of another exemplary tote bag, and illustrate schematic diagrams of enlarged portions of the bag including a hand strap.

Fig. 14A is a cross-sectional view of the interior of the example tote bag of fig. 12A-12B. Fig. 14B-1 illustrates a front view of a tote bag with the placement of the pocket inside the tote bag, and fig. 14B-2 depicts the dimensions of the interior pocket of the tote bag. Fig. 14C is another cross-sectional view of the interior of the example tote bag of fig. 12A-12B.

Fig. 15-21 show various perspective views of another example tote bag.

Fig. 22 illustrates a top front perspective view and an interior view of an alternative example tote bag, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 23 shows a top rear perspective view and an interior view of the example tote bag of fig. 22.

Fig. 24 shows an enlarged view of an exemplary closure on the interior of the exemplary tote bag of fig. 23.

FIG. 25 shows a closed view of the closure device of FIG. 24.

Fig. 26 shows an enlarged view of an exemplary closure on the interior of the carrying bag of fig. 22.

Fig. 27 shows an enlarged view of an exemplary closure of the carrying bag of fig. 22.

Fig. 28 shows a top front perspective view of the example tote bag of fig. 22 with a closure securing an opening of the tote bag.

Fig. 29 shows an enlarged view of the closure device of fig. 28.

Fig. 30 shows a top interior view of an alternative example tote bag, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 31 shows a top interior view of an alternative example bag inner divider, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 32 illustrates a top interior view of an alternative example tote bag with two interior dividers, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 33 shows another top interior view of the example tote bag of fig. 32, with one inner divider in an extended position and a second inner divider in a stowed position.

Fig. 34 illustrates a top cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative example bag organizer insert having two internal dividers, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 35A-35B illustrate front and rear views, respectively, of a removable organizer insert for an alternative example tote bag, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 36A-36D are schematic views of an alternative organizer insert for an alternative example tote bag stowage compartment, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 37A-37B are schematic diagrams of an alternative inner pocket for an alternative example tote bag interior, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 38 is a schematic view of a base of an example tote bag, in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

In the following description of various examples and components of the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration various exemplary structures and environments in which aspects of the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other structures and environments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made in accordance with the specifically described structures and methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Additionally, although in this specification, the terms "front," "back," "rear," "top," "base," "bottom," "side," "opposite," "forward" and "rearward" and the like may be used to describe various example features and elements, these terms are used herein for convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the figures or orientations in conventional use. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three-dimensional orientation or spatial orientation of structures without departing from the scope of the claims.

Fig. 1-3 depict an exemplary tote bag that may be configured to carry or contain various items. The tote bag may generally include a housing 216, shoulder straps 218, hand straps 210, a base 215, an opening, and a storage compartment 504. As shown in fig. 1 and 2A, the housing 216 forms a storage compartment 504 for receiving the desired contents therein. Fig. 2B depicts a semi-rigid base 215 configured to hold the tote bag upright regardless of the contents in the stowage compartment 504. The semi-rigid base may be configured in the shape of an oval, ellipse, rectangle, circle, square, or the like. As shown in fig. 1, the carrier bag may also include various handles, straps and webbing (e.g., 218, 210) and MOLLE loops, as well as sewn seams or tacks (e.g., 224, 222) for carrying, holding or securing the carrier bag, or for securing other items to the carrier bag. Fig. 1 and 2A also depict pocket 212 attached to the interior of storage compartment 504 formed by housing 216. Also shown in fig. 1 and 2A is a single seam 217 in which the housings are welded or otherwise connected to form a single, independent assembly.

The carrying bag may be configured to include an opening that is closed with a zipper or a waterproof zipper. In such a configuration, the carrier bag is substantially impervious to water, and can keep the desired contents dry for long periods of time in wet conditions. It is also contemplated that in addition to a waterproof zipper, the opening may include various sealing devices, such as Velcro, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, and excess material folded multiple times to form a seal (such as a roll-down seal, a metal or plastic clip, and combinations thereof) may be used to seal the opening. In one example, the tote bag may also be designed to hold water within the storage compartment 504, and the tote bag may be configured to be "watertight" from the outside inward. In other words, the tote bag may be formed "watertight" within the outer shell 216 and bottom liner 219 and configured to transport water or other liquids. In another example, the tote bag stowage compartment is configured to include a drain hole, wherein the drain hole penetrates the enclosure, and wherein the drain hole allows fluid to drain from the stowage compartment. Such a configuration allows a user to easily wash or rinse the tote bag storage compartment using a hose, electric washer, or other cleaning device, and allows water to drain from the tote bag.

Fig. 2A also depicts a reinforcement patch 220, which in some instances may be welded or fused to the housing 216 and the strap 218, and which in some instances may be attached to the housing by stitching the strap to the patch 220. In one example, the binding material may be nylon. The outer shell and the inner liner may be made of an antimicrobial or antifungal material. Carrier bags may also be made of materials that are impermeable or waterproof to keep the contents stored therein substantially dry.

Fig. 3 depicts a right front view of an exemplary tote bag. The tote bag includes shoulder straps 218 and hand straps 210. Also depicted are a top trim 503 and a bottom band fabric 502. Also visible is a single shell seam 217, an outer top belt fabric 501a and an inner top belt fabric 501b. The belt 218 further includes a MOLLE loop 224 and a sewn seam 222. However, the MOLLE rings 224 do not necessarily need to be MOLLEs, and may be configured differently in different shapes and sizes depending on their intended use. The strap 218 and MOLLE ring 224 may be sewn to the housing reinforcement patch 220 and the reinforcement patch 220 welded to the housing 216.

Fig. 4A-4B depict bottom views of a carrying bag and show schematic diagrams of enlarged portions of cross-sectional views of the structure of the semi-rigid base. As shown in fig. 4A-4B, the tote bag may include a base 215 and a TPU-coated nylon bottom strap fabric 221 welded to the shell 216 and base shell 226. Bottom inner liner 219 is also welded to outer shell 216. Weld 227 is depicted in fig. 4A-4B. In addition, compression molded EVA with TPU coated nylon laminate 225 and PE foam base 223 is laminated between bottom liner 219 and base shell 226. The base 215 may provide structural integrity and support to the tote bag when placed on a surface, and keep the bag upright regardless of the contents in the storage compartment.

In one particular example, a portion of the base may be formed by injection molding. Additionally, in one example, the foam base 223, which may be formed of EVA foam, may be secured to the bottom of the inner substrate 219 by lamination or by polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, or adhesives. The base housing 226 may be secured to the compression molded EVA 225 by polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, or adhesives. Similarly, the compression molded EVA 225 may be secured to the foam base 223 by polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, or adhesives.

In one example, as shown in fig. 5A-5B, the tote bag includes a stowage compartment 504 that includes first pocket 212. The first pocket 212 may be welded to the inside of the carrying bag within the storage compartment. In one example, first pocket 212 includes a zipper 228, a zipper slider 229, and a cord pull 230 having a heat shrink tube. The pull cord may also be formed from a cloth, string or cord. The pull head may also be a metal, alloy, composite, ceramic or plastic, and other suitable materials. In another example, the zipper 228 is waterproof, and the first pocket is configured to be waterproof when the zipper is closed. In one particular example, the waterproof zipper may be constructed of plastic or other non-metallic teeth to prevent injury when removing an item from the first pocket 212. It is contemplated that the first pocket may include various sealing means other than a waterproof zipper, such as a hook and loop, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, excess material folded multiple times to form a seal, such as a roll-down seal, a metal or plastic clip, and combinations thereof. The pocket may also be constructed of a transparent material so that the user can view the contents of the pocket without opening the zipper. In yet another embodiment, the tote bag includes a second pocket directly opposite the first pocket within the storage compartment of the tote bag. The second pocket may be welded to the packing compartment, and the second pocket may also be constructed of a transparent material to view the contents within the pocket. Both the first and second pockets may be constructed of a mesh material that allows the user to easily see the contents of the pockets. Both the first and second pockets may be secured or attached to the storage compartment 504 using any other method disclosed herein or any known method, such as polymer welding, stitching, or other adhesives.

Various materials may be used to construct the components of the disclosed tote bag. In one particular example, as shown in fig. 2A, 2B, 3, 4, and 5, the tote bag components are constructed from the respective materials listed in table 1 below. In one example, totes are typically collapsible or foldable to a semi-rigid base for storage and transportation.

TABLE 1

In one example, as shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the tote bag includes shoulder straps 218 and hand straps 210. The shoulder straps may also include MOLLE loops 224. In addition, as shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the webbing formed as the MOLLE ring 224 may be sewn to the straps 218 and 210 on the front and back of the carrier bag. MOLLE ring 224 may be used to attach items (e.g., carabiner, waterproof bag) to the handbag. The hand strap 210 may also provide the user with an alternative option of securing the bag to a structure.

In another example, the shoulder straps 218, hand straps 210, and MOLLE ring 224 may be constructed from nylon webbing. Other materials may include polypropylene, neoprene, polyester, dyneema fabric, kevlar fabric, cotton fabric, leather, plastic, rubber, or rope. The shoulder straps 218 and hand straps 210 may be attached to the housing 216 by stitching, adhesive, or polymer welding. Further, as shown in fig. 6A, the shoulder strap may include a webbing seam 505 that is hidden behind the strap. Further, fig. 6B shows a perspective view of a single pocket seam 217 facing the left side of the tote bag from the user's perspective, and the seam 217 is located on only one side of the tote bag. Also shown on fig. 6A and 6B are top trim 503, bottom webbing 502, outer top webbing 501a, and base 215. Various seaming, stitching, and stapling patterns are also shown on the example carrier bags of fig. 6A and 6B.

In one example, as shown in fig. 7A-7B, the tote bag includes shoulder straps 218 and hand straps 210. The shoulder straps are attached to the reinforcement patch 220 and the patch 220 is welded to the outer shell. In one example, the reinforcement patch 220, as shown in fig. 7A-7B, extends above and below the top trim 503. The reinforcement patch 220 may include a weld of 0.25cm, 0.5cm, 0.75cm, 1.0cm, 1.5cm, 1.75cm, or 2.0cm around the patch perimeter.

In another example, as shown in fig. 8A-8C, a tote bag includes shoulder straps 218 and hand straps 210. The strap is constructed by binding together three materials or three portions of nylon webbing, including an outer shoulder strap 218 secured to the hand strap, a hand strap 210 facing into the handbag bag, and an intermediate hand strap reinforcement layer 211. In another example, as shown in fig. 8C, the shoulder straps 218 are at least 50mm x 1.5mm nylon webbing, the hand strap reinforcement layer 211 is at least 25mm x 2mm nylon webbing, and the hand strap 210 is uncoated nylon. See table 1. In another example, as shown in fig. 8D, an alternative hand strap 210 structure includes an inner rigid or semi-rigid support bar 301 to thicken and strengthen the hand strap 210 attached to the shoulder straps 218. In the enlarged cross-sectional view, one or both of the rods 301 are contained within the layer of webbing 303 that forms the hand strap 210. In another example, the bar 301 is contained within a layer of webbing 303 that is surrounded by another layer of webbing 302 that forms the hand strap 210. In another example, a stitch 304 sewn between the rods separates the rods 301. The rod 301 may be constructed of foam, polypropylene, neoprene, polyester, diyma, kevlar, cotton, leather, plastic, rubber, wood, metal, or rope. In yet another example, the hand strap 210 is secured to the sheet 305 by stitching, adhesive, or polymer welding, and the sheet is secured to the shoulder strap 218 by stitching, adhesive, or polymer welding.

In yet another example, as shown in fig. 9 and 10, the tote bag can include various sizes. In one example, the shoulder strap is configured to remain above the level of the base when the carrying bag is carried by the hand strap. In another example, each hand strap 210 can include a first vertical portion 601, a second horizontal portion 602, and a third vertical portion 603 to form a U-shape, and in one example, at least the first vertical portion and the second vertical portion are connected to the shoulder strap 218. In another example, the shoulder strap 218 may define a first length 604 above the opening of the carry bag, and the hand strap 210 may be positioned below a midpoint along the first length of the shoulder strap 218. In yet another example, the shoulder straps 218 define an upper handle 606 and the hand straps 210 define a lower handle, and wherein the distance between the upper and lower handles is a second length 605, the second length being less than the first length. In this example, the second length 605 may be less than the height 607 of the pocket. In yet another example, the length 604 of the shoulder straps 218 is less than the height 607 of the pocket. In yet another example, shoulder straps 218 are at least 70% of the height of the bag. In one particular example, the tote bag includes a width and a height, where the width is at least 65% of the bag height. The housing 216 may include a specific design 232, such as a logo or name, that may be directly attached, molded, or stamped into the material.

Additionally, as shown in fig. 11A and 11B, the bottom portion of the tote bag may include a base 215 that adds structural integrity to the tote bag. The base 215 may also provide additional protection around the bottom of the bag. In one example, a portion of the base 215 may be formed from EVA foam 225. The base 215 may include a specific design, such as a logo or name, that may be molded or embossed directly into the material. The base 215 may also include a base housing 226 constructed of 1680D nylon with a single face PU or other suitable material. Additionally, the bottom belt fabric 502 may be nylon, wherein the nylon is double-sided and at least one color TPU. See table 1.

In yet other examples, as shown in fig. 12A-12C, 13A-13C, 14A-14C, the tote bags may include various sizes. In other examples, the storage compartment 504 has a capacity of at least 20L. In other examples, the tote bag includes storage compartments having a capacity of 5L, 10L, 15L, 20L, 25L, 30L, 35L, 40L, 45L, or 50L. In other examples, as shown in fig. 14A and 14C, the tote bag includes inner or outer closures 235a and 235b attached to the inner top strap fabric 501b. The closures 235a and 235b may be constructed from metal, alloy, composite, ceramic, plastic, or other suitable material.

As shown in fig. 13A-13B, each hand strap 210 includes a first vertical portion, a second horizontal portion, and a third vertical portion to form a U-shape and wherein at least the first vertical portion and the second vertical portion are attached to the shoulder strap 218 the carrier bag also includes a top trim 503 over the shoulder strap 218, top strap cloths 501a and 501B. MOLLE rings 224 are also incorporated on the shoulder straps 218 and in front of the outer shell 216. Various types of stitching or stitching are shown in the enlarged views of fig. 12A-12B and 13A-13B. This includes sewn or tacked seams 222 as well as backstitches 231 and hidden mesh seams 505. The housing 216 may be configured to support one or more optional handles or straps (e.g., 210, 218). In this regard, the housing 216 may also include a plurality of reinforced areas or patches 220 configured to help structurally support the optional handles or straps (e.g., 210, 218). The handles or straps (e.g., 210, 218) and other attachments may be sewn using sutures 222, however in one example, these sutures 222 do not extend through the housing 216 into the storage compartment. Rather, the sutures are sewn to the patch 220, and the patch 220 may be RF welded to the housing 216. However, the handle or strap may be attached to the patch 220 and/or to the housing 216 using any other method disclosed herein or any known method, such as polymer welding, stitching, or other adhesives.

In another example, the tote bag may include two straps or handles 210 connected to the front side of the case 216 of the tote bag and the back side of the case 216 of the tote bag. In one particular example, the shoulder straps 218 may include additional padding to facilitate carrying the bag over the shoulder. The hand strap or handle 210 provides the user with another option of grasping and carrying the tote bag so that the shoulder strap 218 does not extend below the bottom of the horizontal plane of the tote bag base 215 (e.g., the bag bottom).

Hand strap 210 may also incorporate a loop, carabiner, or other attachment means. The device may be secured to the hand strap and handle 210 by stitching, adhesive, or polymer welding, and may be used to help secure or tether the bag to another structure such as a vehicle, vessel, camping gear, or various items such as keys, kettles, accessory straps, bottle openers, tools, other personal items, and the like. The hand straps may also be attached to each other by incorporating various sealing or connecting means, such as hooks and loops, buttons, snaps, buckles or zippers, seals, metal or plastic clips, and combinations thereof.

Additionally, as shown in fig. 13A-13B, a strap formed as a loop or MOLLE loop 224, which also forms the hand strap 210, may be sewn to the shoulder strap 218 on the back of the carry bag. Again, MOLLE ring 224 may be used to attach items (e.g., carabiner, waterproof bag) to the handbag. The hand strap 210 may also provide the user with an alternative option of securing the bag to a structure.

In one example, the hand straps 210, shoulder straps 218, and MOLLE loops 224 may be constructed from nylon webbing. Other materials may include polypropylene, neoprene, polyester, dyneema fabric, kevlar fabric, cotton fabric, leather, plastic, rubber, or rope. The hand strap 210 and shoulder strap 218 may be attached to the housing 216 or reinforcement patch 220 by stitching, adhesive, or polymer welding. MOLLE ring 224 can be configured to receive multiple types of items or corresponding groups of hooks that can be placed onto a surface anywhere on various items, such as fishing lures, keys, bottle openers, card holders, tools, other personal items, and the like. In yet another example, the housing 216 includes a patch or logo 232, which may include a logo, company name, personalization, or other customization. Additionally, the patch or logo 232 may be washable and uv resistant to prevent discoloration.

In particular examples, polymer welding techniques include external and internal methods. External or thermal methods may include hot gas welding, hot wedge welding, hot plate welding, infrared welding, and laser welding. Internal methods may include mechanical welding and electromagnetic welding. Mechanical methods may include spine welding, stir welding, vibration welding, and ultrasonic welding. Electromagnetic methods may include resistance welding, implant welding, electrofusion welding, induction welding, dielectric welding, RF (radio frequency) welding, and microwave welding. The welding may be performed in a flat or horizontal plane to maximize the efficiency of the polymer welding to the build material. Thus, a strong watertight seam may be formed to prevent water or fluid from escaping from or entering the storage compartment 504.

In one particular example, the outer shell 216 and the bottom liner 219 may be constructed of a double-laminated TPU nylon fabric. Nylon webbing may be used as the base material for bottom liner 219 and outer shell 216, and may be coated with a TPU laminate on each side of the webbing. The TPU nylon fabric used in one particular example is 0.1 to 1.0 millimeters thick, is water resistant, and has an antimicrobial additive that meets all of the requirements of the food and drug administration. However, it is contemplated that the fabric used to construct the tote bag contains antimicrobial substances to create a mold-free environment that is safe for food-contact surfaces. In one particular example, the nylon can be 840d nylon with TPU. Alternative materials for making the inner substrate 219 and outer shell 216 include PVC, TPU coated nylon, coated fabric, and other weldable and waterproof fabrics. See table 1.

The foam base 223 may be made from an NBR/PVC blend or any other suitable blend. Additionally, the tote bag may also include compression molded EVA 225 with a layer of TPU coated nylon laminate 226. The compression molded EVA 225 may be replaced with foam, plastic, metal, or other materials. In one example, the base 215 is at least 6mm thick. Additionally, as shown in fig. 4A-4B and table 1, the compression molded EVA 225 and the foam base 223 may each be 3mm thick. Although the base housing 226 is laminated to the compression molded EVA 225, in alternative examples, the base housing 226 may be attached to the bottom of the compression molded EVA 225 by co-molding, polymer welding, adhesives, or any known method.

Fig. 15-21 show alternative examples of carrier bags that may have the same structure and function as described above, but may have different shapes or configurations. In one example, as shown in fig. 16 and 17, the tote bag may have a trapezoidal shape or configuration. In other examples, the tote bag may taper from the top of the bag to the bottom of the bag. In addition, as shown in fig. 15, 18 and 19, the carrying bag may be provided with snap fasteners 233 for securing each set of straps (i.e., 210, 218) to one another. This facilitates easy carrying of the bag by the lower handle. As shown in fig. 16 and 17, the housing 216 may include a particular design or patch 232, such as a logo or name that may be directly attached, molded or stamped into the material, and may be removable (i.e., removed from the hook and loop patch 234). The design or patch may be secured by welding, stitching, adhesive, or other means. For example, the design or patch 232 may be attached by a hook and loop, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, seals, metal or plastic clips, and combinations thereof so that it can be removed. The tote bag may have designs or patches 232 on a single side of the bag on the enclosure 216 or on both sides of the tote bag, as shown in fig. 16 and 17. In other examples, the design or patch may be permanently affixed to one or both sides of the handbag. In other examples, the design or patch may be in a removable configuration on one or both sides of the carrying bag. In other examples, one side of the carrier bag includes a permanently fixed design or patch, while the other side may include a removable design or patch. In other examples, the design or patch 232 may be configured to include a pocket that allows a user to insert a luggage tag, business card, or identification tag that includes personal or other contact information (such as name, address, email address, phone number, etc.).

In another example, a method of forming a carrying bag may include forming a carrying bag by forming an outer shell, placing a bottom liner into the outer shell, and securing the bottom liner to the outer shell forming a storage compartment. The method may also include forming a semi-rigid base constructed from compression molded EVA, PE foam base, and a base shell constructed from a TPU coated nylon laminate covering the semi-rigid base. The method may also include securing the base housing to the housing and attaching the plurality of straps to the housing.

The method may also include a binding material that is nylon and that is sewn to the housing/reinforcement patch and the patch is welded to the housing. The method may also include forming an inner substrate welded to the outer shell, and welding the outer shell and the base outer shell to the bottom band fabric.

The method may also include: the insulating layer is formed at least partially in a first rectangle and a second rectangle, and forms a first rectangle having a larger area than the second rectangle. The method may also include securing the bottom liner to the lower outer shell by welding. The method may also include forming a first pocket including a zipper, the first pocket being welded to the shell within the storage compartment, and forming a second pocket welded to the shell within the storage compartment opposite the first pocket.

An example method may include forming a housing having a single vertical seam. Another example method includes attaching or securing straps to a plurality of reinforcement patches and then welding the reinforcement patches to the housing. The method can also include attaching a plurality of MOLLE loops to the belt. The method may also include forming the strap by binding three nylon strap components together and then binding the strap to a plurality of patches welded to the housing. The method may also include forming a portion of the semi-rigid base by injection molding.

Fig. 22 and 23 depict alternative example totes that may have the same structure and function as described above, but may have alternative internal configurations. The tote bag may include a stowage compartment 504, which may also include the first pocket 212a and/or the second pocket 212b. The first pocket 212a may be welded to the inside of the handbag wall within the packing compartment. It is contemplated that the first pocket may include various sealing means other than a waterproof zipper, such as a hook and loop, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, excess material folded multiple times to form a seal, such as a roll-down seal, a metal or plastic clip, and combinations thereof. Pocket 212a may also be constructed of a transparent material so that the user can view the contents of the pocket without opening the zipper. The first pocket 212a may also be constructed from a mesh material that allows the user to easily see the contents of the pocket. The first pocket 212a may be secured or attached to the interior wall of the storage compartment 504 using any other method disclosed herein or any known method, such as polymer welding, stitching, adhesives, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the top portion of inner pocket 212a may be positioned under inner top band fabric 501b and/or under top trim 503. The inner top strap fabric 501b may have a height equal to the height of the outer top strap fabric 501 around the upper circumference of the outer shell and the opening of the carrying bag. In some examples, second pocket 212b may be welded to an inner wall of a tote bag within storage compartment 504. It is contemplated that in addition to a waterproof zipper, the second pocket 212b may also include various sealing means, such as, for example, hooks and loops, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, excess material folded multiple times to form a seal, such as a roll-down seal, a metal or plastic clip, and combinations thereof. Pocket 212b may also be constructed of a transparent material so that the user can view the contents of the pocket without opening the zipper. The second pocket 212a may be constructed from a mesh material that allows the user to easily see the contents of the pocket. The second pocket 212b may be secured or attached to the inner wall forming the storage compartment 504 using any other method disclosed herein or any known method, such as polymer welding, stitching, adhesives, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the top portion of inner pocket 212b may be positioned under inner top band fabric 501b and/or under top trim 503.

As also shown in fig. 22 and 23, the tote bag may include at least one divider or partition 401. In some examples, the divider 401 may be collapsible. In other examples, the divider 401 may include a pull tab 403 to assist a user in unfolding the divider 401 from a stowed or folded position to an open or extended position. In some examples, the tote bag may include a pair of collapsible dividers 401 that may be positioned on the sides or sidewalls of the bag. In the stowed or folded position, the divider 401 may be mounted flush with the interior side/inner wall of the carrying bag. The pull tab 403 may also be mounted flush with the inner top belt fabric 501b.

As further shown in fig. 22 and 23, the tote bag may include a top trim 503 that may be positioned on top of the outer and/or inner top strap fabrics 501a, 501b. Top trim 503 may be secured to the outer shell and/or outer top band fabric 501a and/or inner top band fabric 501b by stitching, polymer welding, adhesives, or combinations thereof. The tote bag may include a closure 235a positioned opposite the front side of the bag and on an inner wall of the storage compartment. The closure device 235b can be positioned opposite the closure device 235a on the interior wall of the storage compartment. In some examples, the closure devices 235a and/or 235b may be attached to the inner top belt fabric 501b. In other examples, the top portion of the closure device 235a and/or 235b may be positioned and/or attached below the top trim 503. In other examples, closure devices 235a and/or 235b may be sandwiched between inner top band fabric 501b and top trim 503. In another example, the closure devices 235a and/or 235b may be secured to the top trim 503 and/or inner top band fabric 501b by stitching, adhesive, welding, or other mechanical means, or a combination thereof. In certain examples, the closure devices 235a and/or 235b may be fabric loops, MOLLE loops, or may be constructed from metals, alloys, composites, ceramics, plastics, polymers, or other suitable materials, or combinations thereof.

In another embodiment, as shown in fig. 24-27, the closure devices 235a and 235b may comprise loops configured to engage loops of material positioned opposite the buckle. As shown in FIG. 24, the closure device 235b can be engaged with an additional webbing loop or other material 236. The loop of webbing 236 may engage the top trim 503. The webbing 236 may be attached to the top trim 503 and/or the inner top webbing 501b by stitching, adhesive, welding, or other mechanical means. The closure 235b may also comprise a metal, plastic, wood, polymer, ceramic, or other composite snap ring. The buckle 235b may be integrally formed with the loop of the webbing 236. In some examples, closure device 235b may be positioned over zipper 228, zipper slider 229, and pull tab 230 of pockets 212a and 212b. As shown in fig. 26 and 27, closure 235a may comprise a webbing loop, a MOLLE loop, or other material configured to engage with a snap ring 235b to substantially close the opening of the bag to prevent the contents of storage compartment 504 from escaping. The closure 235a can include additional sutures 237 to form a first opening 239a and a second opening 239b. The openings 239a and/or 239b may be configured to engage the closure 235b.

As shown in fig. 28 and 29, the clasp 235b is removably engaged with the loop of material 235a to substantially secure and close the opening of the bag. The closure devices 235a and 235b, when in the engaged position, can reduce the width of the opening at the location of the closure devices 235a and 235b from any number of at least, greater than, less than, equal to, or between about 0.5cm, 1.0cm, 1.5cm, 2.0cm, 2.5cm, 3.0cm, 3.5cm, 4.0cm, 4.5cm, 5.0cm, 5.5cm, 6.0cm, 6.5cm, 7.5cm, to 8.0 cm. This configuration is advantageous because it allows the opening to be secured to prevent items from falling out of the bag, and also allows an individual to retrieve the object held by the divider/divider 401. It is also contemplated that the closure device may include zippers, snaps, buttons, sutures, drawstrings, and combinations thereof.

As shown in fig. 30, the carrying bag may include a plurality of hinged dividers or partitions 401. The partition 401 may be configured to extend along the contours of the sides of the housing and the storage compartment 504. The divider 401 may be attached to the inner side wall of the shell by stitching, welding, adhesive, or a combination thereof. As shown in fig. 31, the top and bottom of the divider 401 may remain unattached, allowing a user to pull on the tab 403 to extend the divider 401 from the stored or folded position to the extended position.

As shown in fig. 32, the divider 401 may remain in the deployed or extended position after the user pulls or pushes the divider 401 into the extended position. The partition 401 may extend such that the holding compartment is divided into multiple sections to separate the individual contents or groups of items within the holding compartment from one another. For example, fig. 33 illustrates the first divider 401 in an extended position, forming two sections within the storage compartment 504 of the bag.

The separator 401 and pull tab 403 may be constructed of nylon with single or double sided TPU, uncoated nylon, EVA, or combinations thereof. In some examples, pull tab 403 may be constructed from nylon webbing or a loop of nylon webbing. In other examples, separator 401 and/or pull tab 403 may be TPU on one side and PU on the other side. In other examples, a portion of the divider 401 or a portion of the pull tab 403 may be molded with a portion or side constructed of single sided TPU and welded to the inner shell, or attached or welded to the divider. The pull tab 403 may be integral with the partition 401 or formed as a separate component and attached to the top of the partition 401. In other examples, the pull tab 403 may be attached to the separator 401 by lamination or by polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, or adhesives. In some examples, pull tab 403 may be attached to an inner top portion of divider 401, as shown in fig. 33. In other examples, the divider 401 may include a reinforcement layer or fold 404 along the top boundary of the divider 401 to increase the strength, durability, and rigidity of the divider 401. The reinforcement layer 404 may be located below the bottom of the inner top band fabric 501b when the divider 401 is in the stowed or folded position. In other examples, the top of the reinforcement layer 404 or the divider 401 may be positioned in contact with the bottom of the inner top belt fabric 501b, forming a smooth seam (i.e., no overlap of components). The pull tab 403 may also include a ridge or fold on the top boundary of the pull tab 403 to help the user increase flexibility when attempting to extend or fold the separator 401. The ridges or folds may also help the user find the pull tab 403 without visual contact (i.e., by feel only). The pull tab 403 may also be shaped as an isosceles trapezoid, square, oval, ellipse, rectangle, circle, or crescent to help an individual increase flexibility in manipulating the separator 401. As shown in fig. 33, the divider 401 may include sides attached to the shell near the sides of the inner pocket 212. In some examples, the separator 401 may be attached to the sidewall by lamination, polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, adhesive, velcro, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, or other mechanical means. In some instances, the divider may be removable. In other examples, the divider 401 may share seams, stitches, or welds with one side of the inner pocket 212. In other examples, the sides of the divider 401 may form the sides of the inner pockets 212a and/or 212b.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in fig. 34, the insert 400 may be configured to be removably attached to the inner storage compartment 504 of the tote bag disclosed herein. The insert 400 may be attached to the storage compartment by lamination, polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, adhesive, velcro, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, or other mechanical means. In some examples, the insert 400 is configured to be installed into the storage compartment 504 without being physically attached to a bag. The insert 400 may include a removable base 407. In some examples, the bottom 407 may be foldable. In some examples, the insert 400 is foldable. The components of the insert 400 may be constructed of nylon with single or double sided TPU, uncoated nylon, EVA, cotton, wool, leather, scrim, synthetic textiles, foam, polypropylene, neoprene, polyester, dyneema, kevlar, or combinations thereof. The insert 400 may include an end plate 405, a divider 401, and a bottom 407 (see fig. 38). The divider 401 may function in the same manner as the previously discussed dividers and may be constructed in the same manner as the previously discussed dividers. The base 407 may be removable from the insert 400 and may provide additional support structure for the insert 400. The insert 400 may also include at least one inner pocket 412a/412B, as also shown in fig. 37A-37B. The inner pockets 412a and 412b may include the same components and may be configured in the same manner as the inner pockets 212a and 212b previously discussed.

Fig. 35A and 35B illustrate front and rear views of the insert 400. The inner pockets 412a and 412b are positioned on the front and back panels 406 and may be constructed and have the same features as the pockets 212a and 212b. The front and rear plates 406 may be joined with the end plate 405. The plate 406 may be attached to the end panel 405 by lamination, polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, adhesive, velcro, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, or other mechanical means. In some examples, the end panels 405 may be attached directly to the sides of the pockets 412a and 412b by lamination, polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, adhesives, velcro, buttons, snaps, buckles, zippers, or other mechanical means.

As also shown in fig. 35A, 35B, 36A, 36B, 36C, and 36D, tabs 409 may be attached to end plate 405. Tabs 409 may be attached to end plate 405 by lamination, polymer welding (e.g., RF welding), stitching, adhesive, or combinations thereof. The tabs 409 may include handles, straps, webbing, MOLLE loops, sewn seams or bars for carrying, holding, manipulating or securing the insert 400, or for carrying items such as loops, climbers, or other attachment devices.

The invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of examples. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the disclosure. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the examples described above without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (14)

1. A bag, the bag comprising:

a housing defining a sidewall, an upper portion defining an upper circumference of the bag, an edge, an opening, a front, a back, and a lower portion defining a lower circumference of the bag, wherein the opening is configured to allow access to a storage compartment;

a plurality of lifting straps;

a semi-rigid base defining a bottom of the bag, wherein the shell and the semi-rigid base form the stowage compartment, and the semi-rigid base is configured to hold the bag upright;

a first interior divider panel attached to the sidewall and configured to transition from a first position to a second position, wherein the first position is a stowed configuration and the second position is in an extended configuration;

at least one inner pocket attached to an upper portion of the sidewall; and

a top trim configured to surround the rim and a top of the inner pocket, the top of the inner pocket being attached to the upper portion of the sidewall.

2. The bag of claim 1, further comprising a second internal dividing wall attached to the sidewall and configured to transition from the first position to the second position.

3. The bag of claim 2, wherein the first interior dividing wall is positioned opposite the second interior dividing wall.

4. The bag of claim 3, wherein the first and second internal dividing panels are flush with the sidewall in the first position.

5. The bag of claim 1, further comprising a second inner pocket attached to an upper portion of the sidewall and positioned opposite the at least one inner pocket.

6. The bag of claim 1, wherein the bag further comprises a closure device.

7. The bag of claim 6, wherein a portion of the closure device is positioned below the top trim.

8. The bag of claim 7, wherein the closure device comprises a clasp configured to engage a loop of material positioned opposite the clasp.

9. The bag of claim 1, wherein a first upper material is configured to surround an upper outer circumference of an exterior of the bag, and wherein a top portion of the first upper material is positioned below the top trim.

10. The bag of claim 9, wherein a second upper material is configured to surround an upper inner circumference of the interior of the bag, and wherein a top portion of the first upper material is positioned below the top trim.

11. The bag of claim 10, wherein an upper portion of the at least one inner pocket is positioned below the second upper material.

12. The bag of claim 11, wherein the first top material and the second top material are secured to the sidewall by stitching.

13. The bag of claim 1, wherein the top trim comprises nylon.

14. The bag of claim 1, wherein the shell further comprises a bottom material configured to surround a bottom perimeter of the shell and a portion of the semi-rigid base.

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