EP2209394A2

EP2209394A2 - The armpocket

Info

Publication number: EP2209394A2
Application number: EP07837756A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Mark Morgan; Jytte Nielsen
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2006-08-24
Filing date: 2007-09-06
Publication date: 2010-07-28
Anticipated expiration: 2027-09-06
Also published as: EP2209394A4; DK2209394T3; US20080047990A1; WO2008024521A3; WO2008024521A8; WO2008024521A2; EP2209394B1

Abstract

The present invention is an armpocket attached by 'V' configured straps allowing a wearer's upper arm to comfortably and securely support the pocket. A storage body with an externally accessible touch-through window may contain dual flaps extending over the top of the armpocket when opened, and extending below the armpocket when unlatched. Various pocket/strap sizes along with many material compositions suitable for every occasion with added security provided by the compressible split-end strap that fold back over the double-loop sizing device. Utilizing visco-elastic memory foam-type padding sculpted to mirror the arm's natural contours, the armpocket wearer can also comfortably and securely carry heavy items. In conjunction with closed-foam (positive buoyancy) padding, micro-fiber wicking material, and water-resistant exterior shell, the armpocket can be worn in any environment including water sports.

Description

ARMPOCKET TECHNICAL FIELD & BACKGROUND

The present invention generally relates to the field of an armpocket that is a secure, functional, fashionable, and sports orientated accessory allowing easy access to personal articles. This multi-function item can be utilized by anyone requiring hands-free, immediate access to personal or professional items.

Likewise, the incessant demand of the fashion industry for fresh ideas combined with consumer demand for products that simplify their daily routine has paved the way for the development of the armpocket. This invention capitalizes on the recent miniaturization of personal electronic devices and the user's desire to keep them securely and readily available, while satisfying the demand for a functional and fashionable clothing accessory. The armpocket consists of a closable fabric or leather pocket worn around the upper arm between the shoulder and elbow and can be coordinated as part of the wearer's ensemble. Similar to a shoulder-worn purse that loosely hangs from the shoulder with a strap, the armpocket is designed to hold the wearer's personal belongings, but is securely attached to the wearer. The armpocket is secured to the upper arm by a plurality of adjustable, elastic, neoprene, leather or other material designed in a unique "V" configuration allowing the wearer full range of arm motion while the pocket remains securely in place on the upper arm. Additionally, through advances in visco- elastic memory foam-type padding, additional support is attained by body heat generated by the wearer causes the foam to mold to the arm's natural musculature contouring. The combination of the V-strap configuration and memory foam allows the wearer to securely carry unprecedented weight evenly distributed in the internal compartments of the armpocket. In conjunction with mesh covered, closed-foam (positively buoyant) memory-foam padding, micro-fiber wicking material, and a water- resistant exterior shell, the armpocket can be worn in any environment including water sports.

This "V" strap configuration and memory foam combination allows for greater weight distribution along the vertical axis of the arm in contrast to a single strap configuration. This greater weight distribution capability provides the wearer comfortable, secure, and easy access to an unprecedented number of personal items. Likewise, for situations where the wearer desires to carry only a few lightweight items, a single strap configuration can also be incorporated into this design. Adding to the armpocket's security is its unique "split-end" design of the "V" strap where the ends flare out after passing through the connecting loop. This added security is afforded by the inability of the two separate ends of equal widths to pass through the narrower return loop in the event of inadvertent Velcro hook- and-loop detachment. Furthermore, this split-end configuration provides redundant connection points along the two strap ends as opposed to existing single strap configurations. This innovative design significantly reduces the possibility of inadvertently detachment - a predicament plaguing existing armband devices today.

The present invention also capitalizes on the advancements in polycarbonate torsion support systems that allow even greater weight distribution along a radially formed, side-cinch compression "arm-belt". Utilizing an Air-Mesh, EVA foam-type harness comprised of Neoprene, CoolMax, or Velvetex-type breathable fabric, the wearer can comfortably and securely carry unprecedented amounts of weight between the natural indents formed between the wearer's bicep, tricep and anterior deltoid muscle. This location's natural contouring also takes advantage of the limited range of motion and reduced forces exerted on the upper arm as opposed to the wrist or hand which is located at the end of the rapidly moving "lever" when the arm is in motion. Subsequently, the greater centripetal forces associated with most sports activities involving throwing a ball or swinging a racquet makes storage bags located on the lower arm or wrist impractical for active wearers. Tests have shown the streamlined, lightweight armpocket can be worn on the wearer's arm without impeding the player's performance. Additionally, in non-contact sports, the armpocket's internal, cushioned compartments held closed with elastic or Velcro segments allow participation in sports without damaging its contents.

The armpocket allows the runner, weight lifter, ball-player or the most avid sports fan to keep her cell phone, portable music player, keys and other valuables safe inside the confines of the pocket securely attached to her arm and not on the bench where they can "mysteriously" disappear in the heat of competition.

Additionally, integrated inside the armpocket's storage body are zippered or Velcro enclosed compartments and padded retainers constructed of expandable, elastic material for securing items such as a cell phone, portable music player, lipstick/pill bottle, credit cards, cash, and a compartment for keys and coins. The center zippered or Velcro enclosed compartment divides the main storage body into two main storage compartments that can be used for larger items such as electronic devices. This central dividing compartment is unique in that it can be secured to the bottom of the armpocket by hook and loop connectors (Velcro) allowing the quick removal and reinsertion of the compartment. This allows the wearer to easily retrieve the contents of this compartment without having to search for items with one hand while the device is worn on the arm. The ability to easily extract the central compartment also allows the wearer to quickly interchange the compartment and its contents (keys, cash, ID, credit cards) from one armpocket to another.

Flaps can be integrated into the top and bottom of the pocket and are secured with latching mechanisms. These flaps contain see-through compartments for driver license, personal identification or business cards. Variants of the armpocket that integrate flaps can also contain a cosmetic mirror and penholder for easy access. These flaps can be secured with a bungee cinch system to allow additional item into the expandable compartments. Variants of the armpocket will contain a "touch-through" front that will allow the wearer to access the controls of their l-pod, GPS, or other electronic device. This allows the wearer to adjust their electronic device's controls without removing the device from the pocket.

Similarly, hikers or runners could carry a collapsible water canteen or other beverage container in an insulated PVC coated nylon material or other camel bak- type drinking system or water bottle and water backs specifically adapted for the armpocket. Likewise, the wearer can insert a canned beverage in an insulated holder while also holding other personal articles inside the armpocket.

Adding to this invention's functionality is the incorporation of molded aluminum, plastic or other beverage containers that conform to the shape of the wearer's arm, and would securely fit into the armpocket's insulated beverage compartment. This beverage holder would fit inside the armpocket, and be made of insulating material like denier nylon, polyurethane, foil backed bubble or other insultote-type material. These "low-profile" beverage containers could allow the wearer easy access to chilled water, his favorite energy drink, or other beverage of choice while participating in or watching sporting events.

In a social setting, women today are often restricted to carrying their personal items in a clutch or over the shoulder purse restricting the use of both hands. In addition, when searching for items buried in a cluttered purse, women often waste valuable time in search of items like keys, pens, credit cards, cash or their cell phone. The armpocket provides a fashionable, multi-functional and secure storage system that keeps personal items organized and readily available under any situation - under any condition. In addition, the armpocket can be fashionably coordinated to match the wearer's dress as a fashion accessory (embellished with sequins, colorful embroidery, or other designer accoutrement), and has the added benefit of freeing both hands to finally allow her to go to the bar and fetch the drinks. Additionally, when taking the dance floor or mingling around the room, ladies no longer have to worry about trusting her purse to the bartender or someone to watch over her purse and its valuable contents. Then, there's always the threat of purse-snatchers or pick-pockets. Worn on the lady's upper arm in constant contact and view; in conjunction with the redundant connections afforded by the theft-resistant split-end, "V-strap" design, the armpocket offers an unprecedented degree of safety and security.

Similarly, men are often concerned about the security of their wallets, and who hasn't sat in a chair only to have the contents of his pockets cascade to the floor or between the cushions of the couch. Then, there's the challenge of going through airport security screening with items left in pants resulting in repeat trips through the metal detector or even a time-consuming wand search.

Additional users could include military special forces requiring hands-free access to global positioning systems, communication devices, miniaturized tactical battlefield terminals or other traditional "hand-held" electronic devices. With advancements in similar underwater-capable systems, this device can carry a submersible, water-tight collapsible insert, "dry box" that is operable like underwater camera housings for recreational divers, who up to now must suspend these devices by straps dangling from their belts, vests, wrists or inconveniently held in the hand. Furthermore, for wearers who must wear specific uniforms or protective clothing, reinforced loops can be sewn into the garment and serve as wrinkle-resistant, armpocket attachment points. Moreover, in many families where both parents work, many children are responsible for keeping track of their own house key, which invariably gets lost on the playground or ball field. The armpocket offers a solution to all these predicaments. The armpocket represents a unique, viable alternative to existing personal carrying devices. Experience proves that wearing a traditional "fanny pack" while participating in sports that require running or jumping results in the pack with its unsecured internal contents to uncontrollable bounce around inside the pack causing an annoying distraction along with significant bruising to the body caused by the pack itself. Likewise, when working out at the gym, most exercise equipment requires the user to sit down, which can crush or damage fanny pack or pants pockets contents. Also, when participating in sports or attending a sporting event, it is often impractical to carry a purse or place your keys, wallet, cell phone, or music player on your person. Subsequently, this invention allows wearers to participate in their favorite sport or attend any event without worrying about the accessibility or security of their personal items.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be described by way of exemplary embodiments, but not limitations, illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like references denote similar elements, and in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a drawing showing the intended positioning of the armpocket on the user's arm, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates a drawing of back side view illustrating the unique "V" design of the arm straps, this lightweight sports version does not incorporate the dual flap design, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3 illustrates a drawing of a front side view of the "casual-chic" version incorporating the pocket's dual outer flaps in the closed position, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 illustrates a drawing of a perspective view of figure 3 in the open position, demonstrating the various compartments and functionality of the armpocket with the flaps in the open position, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 identifies the musculature and contours of the human arm that are mirrored in the construction of the "heavy-duty" version of this invention;

Figure 6 identifies the rear view of an armpocket and identifies the multi-layered webbing design constructed of visco-elastic memory foam material along the polycarbonate torsion support system that is radially formed and connected to a side- cinch compression V-strap. This assembly is sculpted to mirror the natural contours of the human arm; Figure 7 demonstrates front-view of this "heavy-duty" version of the invention in the open position, ideally suited to carry a collapsible water container or other low-profile beverage container. Figure 8 shows the "heavy-duty" armpocket in the closed/secured position held closed by bungee closures located on the front of the container.

Figure 9 shows the unique, low-profile beverage container that mirrors the natural curve of the upper arm allowing the wearer to carry a beverage internally in the armpocket while participating in vigorous activities; Figure 10 shows the back of the "heavy-duty" armpocket wherein the "V" strap slides through a single or dual-loop sizing device securely stitched into the opposite reinforced edge of the armpocket body. The "V" strap, made of neoprene or like compressible material, passes through the sizing loop into an opposing split "V" this strap then folds back over the loop connecting to the top of the "V" strap using hook- and-loop material (Velcro).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Various aspects of the illustrative embodiments will be described using terms commonly employed by those skilled in the art to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced with only some of the described aspects. For purposes of explanation, specific numbers, materials and configurations are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the illustrative embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without the specific details. In other instances, well-known features are omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the illustrative embodiments.

Various operations will be described as multiple discrete operations, in turn, in a manner that is most helpful in understanding the present invention, however, the order of description should not be construed as to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. In particular, these operations need not be performed in the order of presentation. The phrase "in one embodiment" is used repeatedly. The phrase generally does not refer to the same embodiment, however, it may. The terms "comprising", "having" and "including" are synonymous, unless the context dictates otherwise.

Referring now to Figure 1 , shown is an armpocket 1. Referring to Figure 2, shown is a sport version detailed, both the typical and sports versions utilize the "V" arm strap system 2, attached to the pocket body 3. An exterior storage compartment enclosed by an elastic band 3a can be located on the side of the armpocket 3b. Referring to figure 3, in one embodiment shown is a version of the armpocket in the closed position containing a dual flap system with an upper flap 4 extending from the top of the pocket body and a lower flap 5 connected to the bottom of the pocket body 6. In the closed position, these flaps are secured to the front of the pocket body and open in opposing directions when the securing mechanisms 7 are released. When the top flap is opened, the wearer can access the armpocket's interior through a zippered opening 8. A touch-through vinyl window or other material 9 allows external operation of portable electronic devices (l-pod, MP-3 player, cell phone.) stored inside the padded storage compartment. Referring to Figure 4, as in one embodiment, shown is an interior of a version of the armpocket. Integrated compartments 9 are separated by a removable central dividing compartment 10 that is zippered or enclosed by hook and loop material (Velcro) at the top, and is also secured to the bottom of the pocket body's interior with hook and loop material (Velcro). The main compartments contain locations for credit cards, cigarettes, or business cards 11 with expandable padded retaining compartments also sized for a cell phone 12, earpiece/cigarette lighter 13, lipstick or medication bottles 14, and a padded portable music player/l-pod/cell phone compartment externally accessible through a touch-through window of vinyl or other material 15. Reinforced earpiece holes are located at the top 16 allowing electronic device operation. Located on the upper flap is an elastic loop for retaining a pen 17, along with an integrated tulle fabric/vinyl covered, "see-through" ID compartment 18, which is also integrated into the lower flap 19 adjacent to a cosmetic mirror 20.

Referring to Figure 5, this drawing identifies the musculature and contours of the human arm mirrored in the construction of the "heavy-duty" version of this invention. Figure 6 identifies the Armpocket's multi-layered webbing design constructed of visco-elastic memory foam material incorporated into the radially formed, polycarbonate, torsion support system 21 connected to a side-cinch compression V-strap 22. This assembly is sculpted to mirror the natural contours of the human arm. This "heavy-duty" version of the invention will use a similar "V- strap" configured attachment band 22, but utilizing a broader, sculpted arm belt comprised of an abrasion-resistant, durable, and breathable material like Hypalon or Neoprene. Similarly, this version will incorporate other advancements in the field including laminating construction (versus sewing), thermo-molded construction techniques, and additional Brock-type, breathable interior foam padding.

Referring to Figure 7, shows the front view of the "heavy-duty" version of this invention presented in the open position. This version also shows the side- cinch compression V-strap 22 connected to the pocket body ideally suited to carry a water container or other beverages. Likewise, the wearer can insert a collapsible camelbak-type water bladder into the insulated storage compartment, as the armpocket's reinforced bottom can accommodate a drink-tube access port 23, with tube attachments located along the side and top of the armpocket body 24 allowing the drinking tube to wrap around the body of the pocket with enough length so the wearer can drink from the tube while wearing the armpocket. Like the basic armpocket, this version will retain a separate universal storage compartments for a cell-phone, MP3 or l-pod player and keys along with partitions of credit cards and a see-through ID compartment 25, as well as a zippered, utility compartment for keys or other items 26. The interior 27, will contain durable, insulating material like denier nylon, polyurethane, foil backed bubble or other insultote-type material. Referring to Figure 8, this version of the armpocket is shown in the closed/secured position, and can carry a variety of beverage containers 28, and is secured in the closed position by bungee closures located on the front of the container. The closing flap 29 and side panels 30 will be constructed of an expandable, neoprene or polyurethane-type material that will allow this invention to accommodate a wide range of beverage container sizes and shapes. The closing flap will be secured with bungee connectors 31 further expanding the range of beverage containers that can comfortably fit into this invention's expandable, insulated interior compartment.

Referring to figure 9, shown is the unique, low-profile beverage container constructed of various lightweight materials whose shape mirrors the natural curve of the upper arm allowing the wearer to carry a beverage internally in the armpocket while participating in vigorous activities.

Referring to figure 10, the "V" strap configuration 32 constructed of a soft, expandable, polyurethane or neoprene-type material which slides through a dual- loop or single loop sizing device 33 securely stitched into the opposite reinforced edge of the armpocket body 34 allowing the "V" strap to pass through and fold over the loop attaching to the "V" strap using hook-and-loop material (Velcro). The loop is separated from the user's arm by a padded neoprene or other soft material flap 35. Once passed through the loop, the "V" strap separates into a "split-end" design 36, with the male end 37 of the Velcro attached at each end of the straps allowing it to attach to the female Velcro patches located on top each of the "V" strap 38.

While the present invention has been related in terms of the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments depicted. The present invention can be practiced with modification and alteration within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Thus, the description is to be regarded as illustrative instead of restrictive on the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An armpocket comprising: a storage compartment body; a "V- strap" connecting band attached to the armpocket; and an integrated, multi-function storage pocket on the body.

2. The armpocket of claim 1 , wherein the at least one storage compartment is easily accessible.

3. The armpocket of claim 1 , wherein the storage compartment is a selected one of an expandable internal and external compartment.

4. The armpocket of claim 3 wherein expandable compartments inside the pocket are multi-function for storing a wearer's personal belongings normally carried in a selected one of small pockets and pants.

5. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein the storage compartment contains at least one personal belonging that is a selected one of cosmetics, pills, credit cards, drivers license, cash, keys, cell phone and portable music player.

6. The armpocket of claim 1 , wherein the armpocket has a design of a selected one of embroidery, sequins, beads and logos.

7. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein the armpocket is coordinated with an ensemble of a wearer.

8. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein a dividing central compartment is secured to the bottom of the armpocket by hook and loop connectors allowing the compartment's quick removal and reinsertion, and is interchangeable with other armpockets.

9. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein the "V-strap" configuration retaining straps attach the armpocket to a wearer's upper arm between the shoulder and elbow, the armpocket can be made of a selected one of expandable fabric and elastic adjustable straps with a dual-loop sizing device that can be placed inside the pocket that reduce contact with the wearer's arm reducing irritation to the arm.

10. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein the "V" strap configuration has dual straps joined in a center an inner edge of the armpocket and is connected to an opposite inner edge at a top and bottom of the armpocket and the "V" strap is securely stitched into the body that is reinforced using internal stitching, the "V" strap extends horizontally across the armpocket allowing a wearer's arm to easily slide between the straps and the armpocket so that the armpocket rests between shoulders and elbows of the wearer.

11. The armpocket of claim 10 wherein the "V" strap configuration slides through a selected one of a single-loop and dual-loop sizing device securely stitched into the opposite reinforced edge of the armpocket body allowing the "V" strap to pass through and fold over the loop attaching to the "V" strap using hook-and-loop material in a "split-end" configuration.

12. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein at least one flap extends from the armpocket when unlatched from at least one connector located on the armpocket.

13. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein at least one flap extends from the top of the armpocket when unlatched from the body at least one connector located on the armpocket with a selected one of a see-through card compartment, a cosmetic mirror, and an elastic penholder..

14. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein at least one flap extends from a bottom of the armpocket when unlatched from the body at least one connector located on the armpocket with a see-through card compartment and a cosmetic mirror, and an elastic penholder.

15. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein a heavy-duty version of the armpocket has insulating material that is a selected one of denier nylon, polyurethane, foil backed bubble and other insulted-type material allowing portage of a collapsible beverage or other container.

16. The armpocket of claim 1 utilizing a broad, closed-foam, visco-elastic memory foam-type_padding that is sculpted to mirror an arm's natural contours and a multi- layered, webbing designed sculpted arm belt of an abrasion-resistant, durable, and breathable material.

17. The armpocket of claim 1 wherein a low-profile beverage container made of a selected one of plastic or aluminum that contours to the shape of an arm and fits into an insulated carriage compartment of the armpocket

18. A method for carrying personal items comprising: storing items in an armpocket; and attaching the armpocket to an upper arm between a shoulder and elbow of a person by a V shaped strap wherein the items are inside a storage compartment that contains at least one personal belonging that is a selected one of cosmetics, pills, credit cards, drivers license, cash, keys cell phone and portable music player externally accessible through a clear vinyl or other touch- through material and at least one flap extends from the armpocket when unlatched from at least one connector located on the armpocket, inside the at least one flap is a selected one of at least one see-through card compartment, a cosmetic mirror located, and an elastic penholder and expandable compartments are inside the pocket and are multi-functional for storing a wearer's personal belongings normally carried in a selected one of small pockets and pants.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein the "V" strap configuration has dual straps joined in a center, inner edge of the armpocket and connected to an opposite inner edge at a top and bottom of the armpocket and the "V" strap is securely stitched into the pocket body that is reinforced using internal stitching, the "V" strap extends horizontally across the armpocket allowing a wearer's arm to easily slide between the straps and the armpocket so that the armpocket rests between a wearer's shoulder and elbow.

20. The method of claim 18 wherein a central dividing compartment is secured to the bottom of the armpocket by hook and loop connectors allowing the compartment's quick removal and reinsertion and interchangeability with other armpockets.