JP2020531158A - Snap fit golf bag assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A golf bag includes a plurality of stays including a first stay, a second stay, and a main stay having a first end opposite to the second end, and a golf bag including a partition top and a base. It further comprises a top hinge connected to the first end of the stay. The base hinge may be connected to the second end of the main stay. The main stay may be hinged to the partition top by a top hinge. The stay may be hinged to the base by a base hinge. Other embodiments of the golf bag are also described. [Selection Diagram] FIG. 113

Description

Cross-reference of related applications

This application is a partial continuation of US Patent Application No. 15 / 788,535, filed October 19, 2017. No. 15 / 788,535 is a partial continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 437,337 filed on February 20, 2017. No. 15 / 437,337 is a continuation of US Patent Application No. 15 / 405,154 filed on January 12, 2017. No. 15 / 405,154 is a continuation of US Patent Application No. 15 / 058,414, which was filed on March 2, 2016 and is now US Pat. No. 9,586,109. No. 15 / 058,414 is the provisional patent application No. 62 / 295,567 filed on February 16, 2016, and the provisional patent application No. 62 / 151,155 filed on April 22, 2015, and , Claims the priority of provisional patent application No. 62 / 127,033 filed on March 2, 2015 and provisional patent application No. 62 / 211,568 filed on August 28, 2015. In addition, US Patent Application Nos. 15 / 788,535 are US Provisional Patent Applications No. 62 / 410,044 filed on October 19, 2016 and US Provisional Patent Applications filed on February 20, 2017. Claim the priority of No. 62 / 461,054. This application is also from US provisional patent application Nos. 62 / 548,720 filed on August 22, 2017, and US provisional patent application Nos. 62 / 570,024 filed on October 9, 2017. Priority is claimed and all of these contents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

The present disclosure relates to golf bags. More specifically, the present disclosure is made up of multiple components that are interconnected by snap fit or otherwise interconnected to simplify bag assembly by eliminating rivets. Regarding bags. This reduces the packaging volume and results in more efficient and cost-effective transportation. The disclosure also relates to a golf bag kit that allows the recipient to self-assemble the golf bag.

A golf bag is a specially designed bag used to transport a golf club. There are two main classes of golf bags: carry bags and cart bags. Golf bags have certain restrictions on manufacture and shipment. For example, known golf bags are typically fully assembled prior to shipment to the end user or point of sale. Considering the size of the assembled bag, the shipping package generally has a volume greater than 5,000 cubic inches (in 3). As shipping package charges shift from package weight-based charges to package size-based charges, golf bags are subject to additional charges due to excessive packaging dimensions, effectively increasing shipping costs. .. In addition, the threat of tariffs on assemblies from abroad, such as China, Vietnam and South Korea, puts further pressure on solutions for golf bag manufacturing. Therefore, the art requires a golf bag system that reduces the package volume for shipping a golf bag and allows the end user or retail recipient to easily assemble the golf bag after receipt. Has been done.

In addition, assembling both types of golf bags often involves making certain parts of the bag (inside and outside) in different factories and then in different manufacturing sites. This leads to an inevitable increase in package size and package volume when shipping each component of the golf bag and the entire assembled golf bag itself. As shipping package charges shift from package weight to package size, golf bag components, accessories, and the entire finished product will incur additional charges due to excessive packaging dimensions and substantially increased shipping costs. become. Therefore, there is a need in the art to reduce the package volume for shipping the entire golf bag or part of the golf bag, and to easily assemble the golf bag in the reduced volume shipping supply chain. ing.

Known cart bags and carry bags have some common components. Both bags have a base, a top with one or more dividers, and a nearly cylindrical flat section with at least one stay and one or more storage pockets (also as an "outer shell" or "outer housing"). Known), including. At least one stay interconnects the base and top to define the subassembly. The subassembly is then connected to the cylindrical flat to define a known golf bag. During assembly of the golf bag, the cylindrical flat portion and the top are arranged so as to overlap in the circumferential direction. A plurality of rivets are then placed around the circumference of the apex to secure the flat portion and the apex. Similarly, the flat portion and the base are also arranged so as to overlap in the circumferential direction, and then a plurality of rivets are set around the circumference of the base to fix the cylindrical flat portion and the base. This process results in a durable installation of golf bag components. Previously, the assembly process was complex, time-intensive, and labor-intensive. Golf bag components must be properly aligned, which often requires adjustment and rearrangement. Once aligned, each rivet must be set individually around both the top and bottom of the bag.

Known golf bag subassemblies and flats are typically manufactured in a first location and then shipped to a second location for assembly. The subassembly is manufactured to define a golf bag frame with at least one stay that connects to the base and top and separates the base from the top. Similarly, the flat portion is manufactured in a substantially cylindrical or tubular shape. After shipping to the second location, the flat section is fixed to the subassembly. After assembling in the second location, the golf bag is shipped to the consumer in a fully assembled state.

There is a need in the art for golf bags that can be easily assembled without the use of manufacturing means (ie, riveting). There is a need for golf bags that can be shipped in kits (such as in folded form) and require minimal assembly steps and manufacturing tools for delivery to vendors or assembly sites. Further, in order to reduce shipping costs, there is a need in the art for golf bags that can be shipped to the recipient in smaller packaging than is required for the finished golf bag.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first side surface of a golf bag having an unfolded tripod-shaped stand assembly.

FIG. 1B is a left view of the golf bag of FIG. 1A, which is a storage form without a strap.

FIG. 1C is a front view of the golf bag of FIG. 1B.

FIG. 1D is a right side view of the golf bag of FIG. 1B.

FIG. 1E is a rear view of the golf bag of FIG. 1B.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the second side of the golf bag of FIG. 1A opposite to the first side, with the flat portion removed to show the subassembly.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 2 showing a subassembly in which the stand is retracted to facilitate carrying of the bag.

4, line 4 in FIG. 3 _- is a side view of a portion of the golf bag of Figure 2, taken along 4. Shown is a portion of a subassembly that includes a plurality of connecting members that connect the split sleeve to the base and a gap between the split sleeve and the base when the base stand assembly is in storage mode.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the golf bag of FIG. A connecting member that is not fastened is shown to show a mode of self-fastening engagement.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a part of the base of the golf bag of FIG. Demonstrates an alternative connection between the divider sleeve and the base when the golf bag is in a retracted transport mode.

FIG. 6B is a side perspective view of a golf bag similar to the golf bag of FIG. 1A. It has a partition sleeve that is snapped or clipped onto the base.

FIG. 6C is an enlarged side view of the subassembly of the golf bag of FIG. 6B.

7, line 7 of FIG. 2 _- is a perspective view of a portion of the golf bag of FIG. 2 taken along the 7. Indicates the top of the partition to which the partition sleeve is attached.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a part of the golf bag of FIG. 7, showing a partition top portion from which the partition sleeve has been removed.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a part of the golf bag of FIG. 7, showing a part of the partition sleeve that is connected to a part of the partition top by self-fastening engagement.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a part of the golf bag of FIG. 7, showing a part of the partition sleeve that is coupled to a part of the outer ring of the partition top by self-fastening engagement.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the golf bag subassembly of FIG.

12, line 12 of Figure 2 - along ₁₂ is a partial perspective view of a golf bag subassembly of FIG.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the leg mounting bracket separated from the partition top of the golf bag of FIG.

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of the leg mounting bracket separated from the partition top of FIG.

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the leg mounting bracket separated from the partition top of FIG.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an alternative partition top.

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of another leg mounting bracket for use with the partition top of FIG.

FIG. 18 is a bottom perspective view of an alternative partition top.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the end cap according to the embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a part of the partition top of the golf bag of FIG. The leg mounting bracket is snap-fit connected to the top of the partition. The end cap is attached to the leg and is received by the leg anchor of the leg mounting bracket.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the top stay hinge in the first form with the stay removed.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the top stay hinge of FIG. 21. The top stay hinge is connected to the first end of the stay and is in the second form.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the top stay hinge at the first hinge position for use with the golf bag of FIG.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the top stay hinge of FIG. 23 at the second non-hinge position.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the base stay hinge connected to the second end of the stay.

FIG. 26A is a side view of the base stay hinge for use in the golf bag of FIG. 1A according to one embodiment.

FIG. 26B is a side view of the base stay hinge for use in the golf bag of FIG. 1A according to one embodiment.

27A is an elevational view of the top of the base stay hinge of FIG. 26A.

27B is an elevational view of the top of the base stay hinge of FIG. 26B.

FIG. 28A is an elevational view of the side surface of the base stay hinge of FIG. 26A showing the bending of the hinge arm.

FIG. 28B is an elevational view of the side surface of the base stay hinge of FIG. 26B, showing the bending of the hinge arm.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the top stay hinge of FIG. 21, in which the top stay hinge is connected to the first end of the stay.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the outside of the flat portion of the golf bag of FIG.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the inside of the flat portion of the golf bag of FIG.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an alternative snap-fit attachment between the flat portion and the base with a plurality of snap trees molded onto strips of flexible material.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an alternative snap-fit attachment between the flat portion and the base of FIG. 32, showing a strip of flexible material connecting the flat portion and the base.

Figure 34 is a line 34 in FIG. 33 - along ₃₄ is a side view of a portion of an alternative snap fit attachment between the flat portion and the base of FIG. 32. Shows a single snap tree accepted by the flats and the corresponding holes in the base.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a deployable pocket assembly for a golf bag. The pocket assembly is shown in unfolded form and includes shoes.

Figure 36 is a line 36 in FIG. 35 - taken along ₃₆ is a top view of the expandable pocket assembly of FIG. 35 in the deployed configuration. Indicates a shoe pocket from which the shoe has been removed.

FIG. 37 is a top view of the deployable pocket assembly of FIG. 35. The shoe pocket is in the form stored by the solid line, and is in the form expanded by the broken line.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 35 showing the two shoe pockets in the unfolded form.

FIG. 39 is a side view of the shoe pocket assembly according to one embodiment.

FIG. 40 is a side view of the first side surface of another embodiment of the golf bag.

FIG. 41 is a side view of the second surface (back surface) of the golf bag of FIG. 40.

FIG. 42 is a side view of the third side of the golf bag of FIG. 40 opposite to the first side.

FIG. 43 is a side view of the fourth surface (front surface) of the golf bag of FIG. 40 opposite to the second surface.

FIG. 44 is a side view of the golf bag of FIG. 40, in which the pockets are swiveled along the seams.

FIG. 45 is a side view of the golf bag of FIG. 40, in which the pockets are swiveled along the seams.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 40, showing the seam between the pocket and the flat portion to be waterproofed.

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a subassembly for a golf bag in a folded form.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the subassembly of FIG. 47 in an extended form.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the subassembly of FIG. 47, showing that the end of the flat portion is arranged in a snap-fit connection with the partition top.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the subassembly of FIG. 47, showing that the ends of the flat portion are arranged in a snap-fit connection with the base.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the subassembly of FIG. 47. The end of the flat portion is snap-fitted to the base, indicating an additional snap-fit connection.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the subassembly of FIG. 47. Snap-fit connections of flats to both the partition top and base, and seams of flats to be sealed are shown.

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of the assembled snap-fit golf bag.

FIG. 54 is an elevational view of the top surface of the box for use when shipping the disassembled golf bag and associated self-assembling system. The box is placed next to a larger known box that shows the top surface and is used to ship the assembled golf bag.

FIG. 55 is an elevational view of the side surface of the box of FIG. 54. The box is placed next to a larger known box, shows the sides, and is used to ship the assembled golf bag.

FIG. 56 is an elevational view of the indicia printed on a portion of the box of FIG. 54, which is shown as an assembly manual.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a folded, partially assembled golf bag stowed during transport.

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a self-assembling system for assembling the golf bag of FIG. 57.

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a connector for a stand assembly spring and a portion of a base that engages the connector to facilitate self-assembly.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 59 showing engagement with the base after self-assembly.

FIG. 61 is part of a leg self-assembly system. In particular, it is a perspective view of an end cap that is connected to each leg and has removable pins for connecting the legs to the mounting bracket of the golf bag of FIG.

FIG. 62 is an elevational view of the pin shown in FIG. 61.

FIG. 63 is an elevational view of the alignment aid detachably connected to the legs and has two removable pins.

FIG. 64 is a perspective view of a first side surface of an alternative embodiment of the alignment aid, showing one leg attached and one pin attached for exemplary purposes.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of the second side surface of the alignment assist of FIG. 64.

FIG. 66 is a perspective view of a part of the leg self-assembly system of FIG. 58. The leg self-assembly system aligns with and is accepted by the golf bag mounting bracket during assembly.

FIG. 67 is a perspective view of a portion of the golf bag of FIG. 57, showing a strap in an unlatched configuration that surrounds a portion of the spring.

FIG. 68 is a perspective view of a multi-part end cap for use with the leg self-assembly system of FIG.

FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the first side surface of the multi-part end cap of FIG. 68 showing the first part separated from the second part.

FIG. 70 is a perspective view of the second side surface of the multi-part end cap of FIG. 69.

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the first component of the multi-component end cap of FIG. 69, showing the interior with a detent for holding the second component.

FIG. 72 is a perspective view of the multi-part end cap of FIG. 68, showing the completed self-assembly of the legs attached to the leg mounting brackets.

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of a portion of the golf bag of FIG. 57, showing a bracket that connects a spring to each leg.

FIG. 74 is a first perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 73.

FIG. 75 is a second perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 73.

FIG. 76 is a schematic diagram of a method of assembling a folded and partially assembled golf bag of FIG. 57.

FIG. 77 is a perspective view of a two-piece base assembly system.

FIG. 78 is a front view of the ring portion of the two-piece base assembly system of FIG. 77.

FIG. 79 is a perspective view of the snap tab of the ring portion of FIG. 78.

FIG. 80 is a perspective view of the base of the two-piece base assembly system of FIG. 77.

FIG. 81 is a perspective view of the assembled two-piece base assembly system of FIG. 77.

FIG. 82 is a perspective view of the cover assembled on the top of the partition.

FIG. 83 is a perspective view of the cover and the partition top of FIG. 82 separated from each other.

FIG. 84 is a bottom view of the cover of FIG. 82.

FIG. 85 is a perspective view of a pocket on a golf bag for an inflatable hip pad.

FIG. 86 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatable hip pad.

FIG. 87 is a perspective view of the shoulder strap.

FIG. 88 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the end cap.

FIG. 89 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the mounting bracket.

90 is a perspective view of the end cap of FIG. 88 and the mounting bracket of FIG. 89 in the assembled position.

FIG. 91 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the base assembly system.

FIG. 92 is a top perspective view of the base assembly system of FIG. 91.

FIG. 93A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a snap-fastening color system.

FIG. 93B is a perspective view of the snap closure color system of FIG. 93A with the zipper open.

FIG. 93C is a perspective view of the snap closure color system of FIG. 93A, with the zipper open and the elastic body stretched.

FIG. 94A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the assembled modular partition top.

FIG. 94B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the assembled modular partition top.

FIG. 95 is a perspective view of the top ring of the modular partition top.

FIG. 96 is a perspective top view of the top ring of the modular partition top according to one embodiment.

FIG. 97A is a perspective view of an intersecting member portion of the modular partition top of FIG. 94A.

FIG. 97B is a perspective view of the intersecting member portion of the modular partition top of FIG. 94B.

FIG. 98 is a perspective top view of the intersecting member portion of FIG. 97A.

FIG. 99 is a perspective side view of the crossing member portion inserted on the top ring of the modular partition top according to one embodiment.

FIG. 100 is a perspective view of an intersecting member portion of a modular partition top attached to a partition sleeve according to one embodiment.

FIG. 101A is a perspective view of the front side of the leg mounting bracket separated from the partition top according to the embodiment.

FIG. 101B is an enlarged perspective view of the leg mounting bracket of FIG. 101A connected to the partition top of FIG. 101A.

FIG. 102 is a perspective view of the integrally molded partition top and leg mounting bracket.

FIG. 103 is a perspective view of a partition top having a leg mounting bracket inserted into a flat portion having a window for receiving the leg mounting bracket according to one embodiment.

FIG. 104 is a perspective view of the flat, fully mounted leg mounting bracket and partition top of FIG. 103.

FIG. 105A is a perspective view of an embodiment of an easy access / zippered pocket of a golf bag in an open form.

FIG. 105B is a perspective view of an embodiment of an easy access / zippered pocket of a golf bag in a closed form.

FIG. 106 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf bag. It is easily accessible and shows the location of the zippered pocket in FIG. 110.

FIG. 107 is a side view of another embodiment of a golf bag having removable pockets.

FIG. 108 is a side view of the golf bag of FIG. 112, showing a configuration in which removable pockets are partially connected.

FIG. 109 is a side view of the golf bag of FIG. 113, with removable pockets shown in separate form.

FIG. 110 is a side view of another embodiment of a golf bag having a removable pocket hidden under the lip of the golf bag.

FIG. 111 is a perspective view of a cart bag having a removable cooler bag according to one embodiment and a pocket configured to accommodate the removable cooler bag.

FIG. 112 is a perspective view of a removable cooling bag according to one embodiment.

FIG. 113 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the cart bag, showing the position of the stay behind the flat portion.

Figure 114 is a line ₁₁₄ in FIG. 113 - as seen along a 114 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 113.

FIG. 115 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 113, with the flat portion removed to show an embodiment of the subassembly.

FIG. 116 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 114, with the flat portion removed to show the subassembly.

Figure 117 is a line ₁₁₇ in FIG. 115 - is an enlarged view of a partition top taken along 117.

Figure 118 is a line ₁₁₈ in FIG. 116 - is an enlarged view of a partition top along the 118.

Figure 119 is a line ₁₁₉ in FIG. 115 - is an enlarged view of a partition top along the 119.

Figure 120 is a line ₁₂₀ in FIG. 116 - is an enlarged view of a partition top along the 120.

Figure 121 is a line ₁₂₁ in FIG. 116 - is an enlarged view of a portion of a partition top along the 121.

FIG. 122 is a top view of the subassembly shown in FIG. 115.

FIG. 123 is a top view of an example of a portion of a golf cart liner configured to accept a golf bag.

FIG. 124 is a top view of the liner of FIG. 123 in which the base of the golf bag of FIG. 113 is arranged therein.

FIG. 125 is a perspective view of the top stay hub of the golf bag of FIG. 113, in which the stay is arranged.

FIG. 126 is a perspective view of the top stay hub of FIG. 125 with the stay removed.

FIG. 127 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a top stay hub for use with the golf bag of FIG. 113.

FIG. 128 is a perspective view of the base stay hub of the golf bag of FIG. 113.

FIG. 129 is an enlarged view of one of the base stay hubs of FIG. 128.

FIG. 130 is a perspective view of a partition sleeve connected to the subassembly of FIG. 115.

FIG. 131 is a perspective view of a part of a flat portion attached to the partition top of the subassembly of FIG. 115.

FIG. 132 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the partition top portion and the flat portion.

FIG. 133 is a perspective view of a portion of the flat portion attached to the base of the subassembly of FIG. 115.

FIG. 134 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the base and the flat portion.

FIG. 135 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 113, shown in a folded form.

FIG. 136 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf bag, shown in a folded form.

FIG. 137 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 136 showing assembly.

FIG. 138 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 136 in the unfolded form.

FIG. 139 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf bag, shown in a folded form.

FIG. 140 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 103 showing assembly.

FIG. 141 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 139 in the expanded form.

FIG. 142 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf bag, shown in a folded form.

FIG. 143 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 142 in the expanded form.

FIG. 144 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf bag from which a part of the flat portion has been removed.

FIG. 145A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the golf bag in which the removable strap connection mechanism is removed.

FIG. 145B is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 145A, in which a removable strap connection mechanism is attached.

FIG. 146 is an enlarged perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 145A, in which the removable strap connection mechanism is removed.

FIG. 147 is a cross-sectional view of the removable strap connection mechanism of FIG. 145B where the bag mounting tab is at an angle of 90 degrees from the strap mounting tab.

FIG. 148 is a cross-sectional view of the removable strap connection mechanism of FIG. 145B, wherein the bag mounting tab is at an angle of 180 degrees from the strap mounting tab.

Presented below are golf bags that can be carry bags or cart bags manufactured so that the golf bag can be assembled by mechanical means such as snap-fit connections that do not require complex tools. This snap-fit assembly provides economical savings in shipping costs, manufacturing time, and allows the end user to assemble the golf bag rather than the previous golf bag that required complete assembly in a molded or specialized manufacturing plant. To enable. The golf bag includes a partition top, a partition sleeve, a base, and a flat portion. Some embodiments of the golf bag may further comprise a stand assembly having legs and springs. The stand assembly can be unfolded to support the golf bag or retracted to allow convenient transportation or storage of the golf bag. As mentioned above, golf bag components can use snap-fit connections to engage other components of the golf bag. Snap-fit connections eliminate the need for riveting, which requires skilled labor and expensive equipment. The golf bag can include a subassembly into which the golf bag is assembled. The snap-fit connection also allows the golf bag to be manufactured as a self-assembling kit completed by the end user of the golf bag. In some embodiments, certain components, such as pockets, are removable from the golf bag. The removable nature of these components allows for quick and easy customization of golf bags.

Golf bags with built-in subassemblies offer advantages over previously designed golf bags. These advantages include (1) improving the golfer's experience with the golf bag by reducing the bunching or gathering of the divider sleeve near the base, and (2) the golf bag with the stand assembly deployed. Includes facilitating the insertion of the golf club into the golf bag and the removal of the golf club from the golf bag when the golf club is arranged in tripod form. In addition, the connecting members provide the manufacturer with the ability to adjust the tension of the divider sleeves (and subassemblies) during the manufacturing process. In addition, by using snap-fit connections and self-fasteners, the specification includes reduction of installation materials such as rivets and reduction of time for connecting subassemblies to partition tops and bases. Efficiency and cost reductions are achieved during the manufacture and assembly of the golf bags described in. As a result, the total assembly time and cost of the golf bag is reduced. Due to the pre-assembled nature of the invention, as well as reduced shipment volumes, shipping costs and tariff avoidance are also achievable.
Definition

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. In case of conflict, this document, including definitions, will prevail. Preferred methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention. All publications, patent applications, patents and other references referred to herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. The materials, methods, and examples disclosed herein are exemplary only and are not intended to be limiting.

The terms "comprise (s)", "include (s)", "having, has", "can", "contain (s)", and their variants. Is intended to be an open-ended transitional phrase, term, or word that does not preclude the possibility of additional actions or structures, as used herein. The singular forms "one (a)", "and (and)", and "the" include multiple references unless explicitly indicated that the context is not relevant. Whether expressly stated or not, other embodiments "comprising", "consisting of", and "consisting of" the embodiments or elements presented herein. The present disclosure intends to be "consisting essentially of".

The modifiers "about," "approximately," or "roughly" used with respect to quantities include the values described and have meanings dictated by the context (eg,). It includes at least the degree of error associated with a particular amount of measurement). The modifiers "about", "approximately", or "roughly" should be considered to disclose the range defined by the absolute values of the two endpoints. For example, the expression "about 2 to about 4" also discloses the range of "2 to 4". The terms "about", "approximately", or "roughly" can refer to plus or minus 10% of the indicated number. For example, "about 10%" can indicate a range of 9% to 11%, and "about 1" can mean 0.9 to 1.1.

As used herein, "golf bag" may mean a special type of storage bag for holding or storing a golf club. The golf bag can be used for long-term storage of the golf club or for moving and holding the golf club during play. Some golf bags are also tees, golf balls, range finder, ball markers, diverting repair tools, golf gloves, rain gear for clubs and golf bags, and golf players may want to access on the golf course. Provide a means of storing other equipment, such as some miscellaneous items. A golf bag comprises at least a flat portion, one or more stays, a base, and a partition top, as defined below.

As used herein, "Flat" means a tubular portion, outer shell, outer housing, or cover that is attached between the partition top and base of a golf bag and extends between them. Can be done. The flats can be formed from leather, synthetic leather, fabrics, or other suitable materials. The flat portion may include one or more pockets and at least one carrying handle, among other features. Some embodiments of the flat section further include one or more shoulder straps.

As used herein, "Base" can mean a component that is the basis of a golf bag. The base can support the golf club to prevent it from falling from the lower end of the flat portion. The base can come into contact with the ground and provides a sturdy construction that provides shape to the flats.

As used herein, a "divider top" provides a rigid shape to the top of a golf bag and provides an opening for receiving and partitioning (or sorting) a golf club inserted into a flat portion. It can mean a component to be provided.

As used herein, "Stay (s)" can mean one or more rigid members that provide rigidity to a flat portion. One or more stays connect the base to the top of the partition.

As mentioned above, there are two classes of golf bags, "carry bags" and "cart bags". As used herein, "carry bag" can mean, as the name implies, a golf bag typically carried between holes by a golfer during a round of golf. Carry bags are typically lighter than cart bags. To reduce weight, carry bags are typically made of materials that are lighter than cart bags and may have smaller diameters, such as less than 9 inches. There are several types of carry bags. The carry bag includes a stand bag that includes retractable legs that form a tripod and deploy to facilitate a self-supporting position. The carry bag is a virtually ultra-lightweight, flexible "sleeve" that accepts golf clubs but has the minimum storage capacity for golf accessories to further reduce weight. including.

The "cart bag" used herein is typically about 9-14 inches in diameter and has multiple pockets for storing golf accessories (eg, golf balls, rain gear, range finder, etc.). Including, typically can mean a golf bag made from a relatively hard and heavy material, including leather, synthetic leather, or fabric. The cart bag is typically not carried by the golfer during golf play due to its substantial size, weight, and ability to store golf accessories. Instead, the cart bag is carried by a caddy, electric cart, push cart, or pull cart. Non-limiting examples of cart bags include staff bags or tour bags.

As used herein, "Snap fit connection" can mean any connection that is engaged via a pressing force and cannot be released by the opposite pulling force of the same value. Snap fit connections should be snap fasteners, snap fit attachments, interference fits, snap buttons, or other similar fixed assemblies (forming connections or otherwise connected by assembler). Can be done. Snap-fit connections can be secured without the use of tools.

Most snap-fit connections include at least one flexible component. Typically, one component of the snap-fit connection has a protrusion or slope, and the second receiving component has a recess, opening, or recess that receives the protrusion or slope of the first component. Has a housing. However, snap-fit connections are not limited to this typical embodiment. Many elements of a golf bag are described as an adjective "snap fit", which means that the element can be engaged with either itself or another element of the golf bag via a snap fit connection. means. For example, the snap-fit bracket can be a bracket that engages the partition top via a snap-fit connection.

"Collapse" here means the action of folding, compressing, bending, compressing, or transforming a unit into a state that occupies less volume than its original or unfolded state. To do. The folded state of the golf bag can also be called the "shipment form".

The term "Deploy" as used herein refers to the operation of deploying, unfolding, opening, or converting a unit into a state in which it occupies a larger volume than the folded state. The unfolded state of the golf bag is also called the "operation mode".

As used herein, "Recipient" refers to a golf bag user, a person (such as a customer) who receives a golf bag in the form of being shipped from a supplier (as defined below), and a point of sale. It can mean one or more people (eg, a golf shop, etc.), a wholesaler, or any other person who receives a golf bag associated with a sale).

As used herein, "Assembler" means either a recipient who is required to self-assemble a golf bag, or a worker at a manufacturing site who assists in the process of assembling a golf bag. obtain.

As used herein, a "Manufacturing site" is any factory, assembly plant, or supplier in which a golf bag is assembled before it is sold, shipped, or otherwise given to the recipient. , Manufacturing site, warehouse, workshop, or other location.

As used herein, "Supplying company" can mean a company that sells, ships, or otherwise distributes golf bags. It should be understood that the manufacturing sites defined above are owned, contracted, supervised, employed, or otherwise associated with the supplier.

As used herein, "Sub-assembly" means the grouping, assembly, unitization, or structure of some component of a golf bag (eg, base or partition top). obtain. A subassembly is a partially assembled unit that can be used to complete the assembly of a golf bag. Different embodiments of the subassembly can comprise different components. In many embodiments, the subassembly is foldable. Subassemblies can be included in the golf bag kit as defined below.

As used herein, "Golf bag kit" can mean a collection of components or parts that can be assembled into a golf bag. The kit contains all the components needed to complete the golf bag, except for the tools needed to assemble it. The kit can include a partially assembled golf bag. In most embodiments, the kit comprises golf bag components, parts, subassemblies, and / or partially assembled parts, which are folded into a box for transport. In other words, the kit can include the golf bag in a folded form, along with the components needed to expand, deploy, and / or complete the golf bag. The volume of the box required to hold the kit is generally smaller than the volume of the box required to hold the fully assembled golf bag. In some embodiments, the kit components are shipped in separate boxes, but the overall shipment of the components remains less than the shipment of a fully assembled golf bag. Prior to any embodiment of the present disclosure being described in detail, the present disclosure, in its application, details or configuration and arrangement of components as described in the following description or as shown in the drawings. Please understand that it is not limited to. The present disclosure can support other embodiments and can be implemented or implemented in various ways. It should be understood that the description of a particular embodiment is not intended to limit this disclosure as it covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. It should also be understood that the terminology and terminology used herein are for explanatory purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

I. Golf Bags Described herein sacrifices ergonomics, durability, and numerous options for storing and transporting golf clubs and golf-related items required by golfers during a round of golf. It is an easy-to-manufacture golf bag that further saves transportation costs. Golf bags can include snap-fit components. The golf bag can be a carry bag or a cart bag. The carry bag comprises at least one flat portion containing one or more straps, one stay, a base, a partition top, and a stand assembly including legs. The cart bag includes at least a flat portion, two or more stays, a base, and a partition top. For ease of description and understanding, and for illustration purposes only, the detailed description below refers to a golf bag as a carry bag or cart bag. The referenced figures are provided for illustrative purposes, and aspects of the carry bag 10 or cart bag 1010 disclosed herein may be incorporated into any suitable class, type, or size golf bag. Please understand that it is good. In general, golf bags 10, 1010 carry a full set of golf clubs, eg, a set of golf clubs that includes one or more combinations of drivers, woods, hybrids, irons, wedges, and / or putters. It is a size suitable for. A full set of golf clubs is not foldable and has a length of about 32 inches to about 49 inches, depending on the club.

FIGS. 1-90, 94A-104, and 107-110 show embodiments of golf bag 10 having features and embodiments similar to carry-type golf bags. 91-93C, 105A-106, and 111-144 show embodiments of the golf bag 1010, which typically has features associated with the cart bag. The features disclosed for golf bag 10 and golf bag 1010 may be selectively implemented in either a carry bag or a cart bag, if desired. For the purposes of the following description, the golf bags 10 and 1010 are referred to as general golf bags, in particular the carry bag 10 and the cart bag 1010.

1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E show a right side view, a rear view, a left side view, and a front view of an embodiment of the golf bag 10, respectively. With reference to FIGS. 1 and 113, common components of golf bags 10 and 1010 are base 34, 1034, partition tops 30, 1030, partition sleeves 46, 1046, one or more stays 39, 1039, and flat. Includes parts 14, 1014. Golf bags 10, 1010 can be formed from subassemblies 42, 1042. Subassemblies 42, 1042 include one or more of bases 34, 1034, partition tops 30, 1030, partition sleeves 46, 1046, one or more stays 39, 1039, and flat portions 14, 1014. The partition tops 30, 1030 attach one or more stays 39, 1039, flat portions 14, 1014, and partition sleeves 46, 1046. Bases 34, 1034 mount one or more stays 39, 1039, flats 14, 1014, and partition sleeves 46, 1046. One or more stays 39, 1039 provide rigidity to the golf bags 10, 1010 and hold the bases 34, 1034 and partition tops 30, 1030 in fixed positions with respect to each other. The substantially cylindrical flat portions 14, 1014 define a compartment for storing the golf club and extend between the partition tops 30, 1030 and the bases 34, 1034. The partition sleeves 46, 1046 are attached to the partition tops 30, 1030 and extend toward the bases 34, 1034. The partition sleeves 46 and 1046 are attached to the bases 34, 1034 or bottom ends of the flat portions 14, 1014 via the connecting member 50. The partition tops 30, 1030 and the partition sleeves 46, 1046 provide means for separating the golf clubs in the golf bags 10, 1010 so that the golf clubs do not bundle together or capture each other. The components of golf bags 10 and 1010 are described in more detail in the sections below.

A. Partition top and partition sleeve

Golf bags 10, 1010 include partition tops 30, 1030 and partition sleeves 46, 1046. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 117 and FIG. 118 show partition tops 30, 1030. FIG. 7 shows a partition top 30 to which the partition sleeve 46 is attached. As shown in FIG. 7, the partition opening 82 defines the entrances of the partition sleeves 46 extending from the partition top 30 toward the base 34 to the plurality of partition portions 86. The dividers 86, 1086, respectively, accept one or more golf clubs, allowing the golfer to sort or isolate a particular golf club while the clubs are accommodated in the golf bags 10, 1010. For example, a golfer can isolate a wood and / or hybrid from an iron. As another example, golfers
Multiple partitioning portions 86, 1086 by making the low loft irons (eg, 4 to 7 irons) separate from the high loft irons (eg, 8 to wedges) the dividers 86, 1086. Irons may be sorted between.

The partition tops 30, 1030 include outer rings 74, 1074 that define the perimeter of the partition tops 30, 1030. The partition tops 30, 1030 constitute one or more handles 33, 103a, 1033b. These are formed or otherwise connected to the partition tops 30, 1030 and extend beyond the boundaries defined by the outer rings 74, 1074. With reference to FIGS. 8, 117 and 118, the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 have been removed to further indicate the partition tops 30 and 1030. In one embodiment, at least one intersecting member 78, 1078 extends across a portion defined by the outer rings 74, 1074 to define a plurality of partition openings 82, 1082. As shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of intersecting members 78a, 78b extend across a portion defined by the ring 74, and at least one intermediate member 80 extends between the intersecting members 78a, 78b to define a partition opening 82. .. Intersection members 78, 1078 and / or intermediate members 80, 1080 are 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, or 20. Any suitable number of split openings 82, 1082 can be defined, including, but not limited to, the number of openings.

The split openings 82, 1082 include, but are not limited to, squares, rectangles, triangles, parallelograms, trapezoids, circles, and ellipses, and can include various shapes. A pattern can be created by mounting the split openings 82 and 1082 having a plurality of shapes on the same partition tops 30 and 1030. In some embodiments, the one or more partition openings 82, 1082 are shaped to accommodate a particular type of club. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 117, the putter well opening 1716 is designed to accommodate a putter-type club. In some embodiments, the one or more openings 82, 1082 can be opened at different heights above the bottom edge of the partition tops 30, 1030. The different heights of the openings allow shorter clubs to be placed in openings that open at lower heights and longer clubs to be placed in openings that open at higher heights. can do.

The partition tops 30, 1030 further constitute top stay receiving channels 166, 174a. Top stay receiving channels 166, 174a are configured to receive top stay hinges 162, 1740 and connect the stays 39, 1039 to partition tops 30, 1030. Typically, the top stay receiving channels 166, 174a are located on the inner surface of the outer rings 74, 1074 and adjacent to the back surface of the golf bags 10, 1010. Some embodiments of partition tops 30, 1030 may also include one or more stay hubs for directly accepting secondary stays. These stay hubs can be placed on the outer surface of the outer rings 74, 1074.

Some embodiments of partition tops 30, 1030 further include a flat portion mounting mechanism for engaging the flat portions 14, 1014. The flat portion mounting mechanism for engaging the flat portions 14, 1014 may include a mounting opening, a snap button, a surface for engaging the self-fastening connecting member of the flat portion, or other suitable connecting means. .. In most embodiments, the flat portion mounting mechanism is essential or located on the outer rings 74, 1074. In some embodiments, the flats are sewn or glued directly to the partition tops 30, 1030 rather than being connected via a mounting mechanism.

In some embodiments, the partition tops 30, 1030 further include a partition mounting mechanism. The partition mounting mechanism can include mounting openings, snap buttons, other snap-fit connections, surfaces that engage the self-fastening connecting members of the partition sleeves 46, 1046, or other suitable connecting means. The connections of the partition sleeves 46, 1046 to the partition tops 30, 1030 are described in more detail below.

The partition tops 30, 1030 can be formed as one integral part or as a plurality of parts joined to each other. In some embodiments, the partition tops 30, 1030 include a plurality of parts to allow easy customization of the partition tops 30, 1030. The partition tops 30, 1030 can be modular partition top assemblies such as the module partition top assembly 830 described below. The partition tops 30, 1030 may be provided with a cover such as a cover 870 described below. A plurality of component embodiments of the partition tops 30, 1030 can allow color customization and / or partition opening customization. For example, the number and / or shape of openings 82, 1082 can be customized based on the recipient's desired opening pattern. Some golfers prefer a large number of openings 82, 1082 to allow each golf club to be classified into individual openings 82, 1082. Other golfers prefer a small number of openings 82, 1082 so that multiple clubs can be easily inserted into each of the larger openings.

1. 1. Modular partition top

Referring to FIGS. 94-97, a modular partition top assembly 830 with a top ring 840 and a cross member portion 850 is shown. Although the illustrated embodiment of the modular partition assembly 830 resembles the partition top 30 of a carry bag, the concept of the modular partition assembly 830 can be applied to any class, type, or design of the golf bag. The partition top is formed so that the crossing member portion 850 fits within the top ring portion 840. In some embodiments, the cross member portion 850 is attached to the partition sleeve 46. The modular coupling of the top ring 840 and the cross member portion 850 allows various embodiments of the cross member portion 850 to be interchangeably attached to the top ring 840. This allows cost-effective customization of the partition layout of the golf bags 10 and 1010.

As shown in FIG. 96, the top ring 840 of the modular partition top 830 includes a wall 841, a shelf 842, an internal shelf 843, an internal support 844, and a handle 845. Some embodiments include two or more handles. The wall 841 forms the bottom of the top ring 840 and extends vertically downward from the shelf 842. The wall 841 can have a height of 0.5 to 2.5 inches. The height of the wall 841 is measured from the bottom edge of the wall 841 to the intersection of the wall with the shelf 842. For example, wall heights can be 0.5, 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2.0, 2.2, 2.4, or 2.5 inches. can do. The shelf portion 842 of the top ring 840 extends outward from the wall 841 and corresponds to the shelf of the golf bag 10 body. The shelf 842 helps hold the top ring 840 on top of the golf bag 10 and prevents the top ring 840 from slipping into the body of the golf bag 10. The handle 845 is located at the rear end of the top ring 840 so that the handle 845 is located on the back side of the golf bag 10 when the top ring 840 is attached to the golf bag 10. The internal shelf portion 843 of the top ring 840 corresponds to the shelf portion of the crossing member portion 850. The inner shelf portion 843 can surround the entire inside of the top ring 840. Alternatively, the internal shelf portion 843 can surround only a part of the inside of the top ring 840.

In some embodiments, the internal support 844 extends inward from the plurality of sides of the top ring 840. The internal support 844 can include a side-to-side support and / or a front-to-rear support (not shown). The top ring 840 does not include a support or can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 supports. In some embodiments, the internal support 844 is a rib that extends inward and upward at an angle between 15 ° and 45 °. The internal support 844 can be 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, or 45 degrees. These ribs can have a length of 0 to 2 inches. The rib length shall be 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, or 2.0 inches. Can be done. These ribs can be connected to the top ring at one end of each rib, as shown in FIG. In other embodiments, the internal support is completely from one side of the top ring 840 to the opposite side of the top ring 840 (side-to-side support), or completely from the front to the rear of the top ring 840. A beam (not shown) that extends to (support from front to rear). In some embodiments, the front-to-rear support may intersect the two or more side-to-side supports. Similarly, the side-to-side support may intersect two or more front-to-rear supports. The beam can take a straight or bowed shape. Some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 95, do not include an internal support. In some embodiments, the top ring 840 further includes an internal protrusion 846 near the rear end of the top ring 840. The internal protrusion 846 may include a hub for the stay 39 to connect to the modular partition assembly 830. The hub has a cavity extending upward in the internal protrusion 846 to receive the stay 39.

As shown in FIG. 96, the intersecting member portion 850 of the modular partition top 830 includes a main body wall 851, an outer shelf portion 852, a plurality of side-to-side crossing members 853, and a plurality of front to rear portions. It is provided with a crossing member 854 to. The body wall 851 is sized to fit within the top ring 840. The outer shelf 852 surrounds the main body wall 851 and corresponds to the inner shelf 843 of the top ring 840. The inner shelves 843 of the top ring 840 and the outer shelves 852 of the cross member portion 850 prevent the cross member portion 850 from sliding under the top ring 840 and secure the cross member portion 850 in place. help. The plurality of crossing members 853 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, or more crossing members extending from one side of the main body wall 851 to the opposite side of the main body wall 851. In some embodiments, one or more side-to-side crossing members 853 intersect two or more front-to-rear crossing members 854. In some embodiments, the one or more cross member 853 does not contact the body wall 851. The plurality of front-rear crossing members 854 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more crossing members. In some embodiments, one or more anterior-posterior transverse members 854 intersect two or more lateral transverse members 853. In some embodiments, one or more front-rear transverse members 854 do not contact the body wall 851 of the transverse member 850.

The structural combination of the side-to-side crossing member 853 and the front-to-rear crossing member 854 is 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 for accepting a golf club. , 12, 13, 14 or more. In some embodiments, the replaceable cross member portion 850 is provided with 4, 5, 7, or 14 openings for receiving the golf club. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cross member comprises a hollow groove or channel 855 that engages the internal support 844 of the top ring 840. In some embodiments, the cross member portion 850 further comprises a notch 856 corresponding to an internal protrusion 846 on the top ring 840. Internal protrusions 846 and notches 856 align the intersecting member portion 850 with the top ring 540 during assembly of the modular partition top 830.

The partition sleeve 46 includes one or more compartments extending from the top of the golf bag 10 toward the base 34. FIG. 100 shows a partition sleeve 46 attached to a crossing member portion 850 of a modular partition top 830. As described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6C, the partition sleeve 46 may further include a plurality of connecting members (or fasteners) at the lower end 47 of the partition sleeve 46. The plurality of connecting members may include one, two, three, four, five, six, or more connecting members. The connecting member can be provided with elastic pieces and clips, snaps, or any other suitable mechanical fastening mechanism. The connecting member of the base of the partition sleeve can be fixed to the base of the golf bags 10, 1010 or to the bottom end of the flat portion 14.

Advantages of the modular partition top assembly 830 include efficient customization of the partition top, a clean look, overall partition top weight lighter than a single partition top, and better protection against the club shaft. As described below, the intersecting member portion 850 can be formed from a material that is lighter than the top ring 840, so that the partition tops 30, 1030 can have a lighter overall weight. Due to the modular nature of the partition top assembly 830, the manufacturer can easily and cost-effectively provide the recipient with more colors, textures, partition patterns, and graphic options by providing a customized cross member portion 850. Can be provided. Since the golf bags 10, 1010 can be assembled almost completely without the crossing member portion 850 of the partition top 830, the supplier preassembles the bag with the top ring 840 as described in the section of methods below. Later, the customized cross member portion 850 can be fixed to the top ring 840.

2. Cover on the intersection of the top of the partition

82-84 show another embodiment of the partition tops 30, 1030. The cover 870 can be mounted on the crossing member 78 and the intermediate member 80. The cover 870 protects the cross member 78 and any golf club that collides with the partition tops 30, 1030 when inserted into the golf bags 10, 1010. Cover 870 also allows customization of the colors of the partition tops 30, 1030. Embodiments of partition tops 30, 1030 with one or more intermediate members may also include a cover 870. However, for the purposes of this specification, only embodiments with one intermediate member 80 are shown.

The cover 870 can be a one-piece system that allows easy one-step assembly with the partition top 30. This is the opposite of having to wrap the flap 90 around each intersecting member 878 and intermediate member 880 of the partition top 30. In some golf bags, the divider sleeves 46, 1046 include one or more flaps 90. The one or more flaps 90 have the dual purpose of fixing the partition sleeves 46, 1046 to the partition tops 30, 1030 and protecting the intersecting members 78, 878, 1078 of the partition tops 30, 1030. Fulfill. The cover 870 only requires assembly to place the cover 870 on top of the cross member 878 and the intermediate member 880. In addition, cover 870 can provide more opportunities for color, texture, or graphic customization. The cover 870 has the potential to provide greater protection to the golf club than the flap 90 system.

The cover 870 can be fixed or adhered to the partition top 30. The cover 870 can include a cover outer ring 874 that can follow the same contours as the outer ring 74 of the partition top 30. Further, the cover outer ring 874 can have an outer circumference smaller than the outer circumference of the outer ring 74 so that the outer surface of the cover outer ring 874 is adjacent to the inner surface of the outer ring 74 when assembled. The cover 870 extends across a portion of the cover outer ring 874, defines a plurality of cover openings 882, and further adds at least one cross member cover 878 corresponding to at least one cross member 78 of the partition top 30. Including. In some embodiments, with reference to FIG. 83, a plurality of crossing member covers 878a, 878b extend across a portion defined by a cover outer ring 874. At least one intermediate member cover 880 extends between the intersecting member covers 878a, 878b to define a cover opening 882 corresponding to the partition opening 82. With reference to FIG. 84 when viewed from below, the cross member cover 878 and the intermediate member cover 880 have channel 890 such that the cross member 78 and the intermediate member 80 fit inside the channel 890 when assembled. Including.

In another embodiment, the cover 870 can include a cross member cover 878 and at least one intermediate member cover 880 and can lack the cover outer ring 874. In these or other embodiments, the cross member cover 878 and the intermediate member cover 880, when viewed from below, provide the channel 890 so that the cross member 78 and the intermediate member 80 can be fitted inside the channel 890. Can include. When assembled, the cross member cover 878 and the intermediate member cover 880 can cover the cross member 78 and the intermediate member 80 while leaving the outer ring 74 of the partition top 30 exposed.

In another embodiment, the cover 870 may include a cover outer ring 874 and may lack the cross member cover 878 and the intermediate member cover 880. In these or other embodiments, the cover outer ring 874 can include a channel 890 so that the outer ring 74 can be fitted inside the channel 890 when viewed from below. Once assembled, the cover outer ring 874 can cover the outer ring 74 with the member cover 878 and the intermediate member 880 of the partition top 30 exposed.

In some embodiments, the channel 890 can be filled with an adhesive or epoxy that secures the cover 870 to the partition top 30 when assembled. In other embodiments, the cover 870 can be secured to the partition top 30 by any suitable mechanism. For example, the cover 870 is provided by a threading mechanism, a snap-fit mechanism, a hook-and-loop fastener mechanism (VELCRO®), a rivet, a latch mechanism, a buckle mechanism, a clip mechanism, a strap mechanism, a pin mechanism, or any other suitable mechanism. , Can be fixed to the partition top 30.

In some embodiments, the cover 870 can be the same color as the partition top 30. In other embodiments, the cover 870 may be of a different color than the partition top 30. In other embodiments, the cover 870 may be blue, green, yellow, orange, red, purple, white, black, gray, gold, or any other suitable color.

3. 3. Partition top member quality

The partition tops 30, 1030 are preferably made of polypropylene or other thermoplastic polymer due to its flexibility, strength, and lightweight construction. Specifically, the partition tops 30, 1030 can be formed from a glass-filled polymer or any other suitable plastic. In some embodiments, partition tops 30, 1030 include, but are not limited to, glass-filled polymers, polypropylene, or any other thermoplastic polymer, which can be formed from multiple materials.

In an embodiment of the modular partition top 830, the top ring 540 can be made of a material similar to the material on which the partition tops 30, 1030 can be formed. Further, in the embodiment of the modular partition top 830, the cross member portion 850 material is ethylene-vinyl acetate (hereinafter, “EVA”), Croslite (registered trademark) (Crocs (registered trademark), boulder, Colorado), polyurethane ( Hereinafter, it can be formed of "PU"), silicone, or any other suitable material. EVA offers a non-toxic, tough and low density option that reduces the weight of the modular partition top assembly 830. Croslite® (Crocs®, Boulder, Colorado) offers UV resistance and low density as well as shock absorbing properties. Silicones offer an extreme environment resistant, non-reactive, easy-to-manufacture option. In some embodiments, the molded partition top 830 comprises a plurality of materials. The flexible nature of some materials requires additional support. Additional support is provided by the multi-material construction of the cross member portion 850 of the modular partition top 830, or by additional support from the top ring 540, such as a full beam for an internal support instead of ribs. .. The material of the crossing member portion 850 can reduce the overall weight of the golf bag partition.

In the embodiment having a cover 870, the cover 870 can be made of any material having soft and lightweight properties. The cover can include open cells, closed cell foam, or any other suitable material. For example, the cover is PU foam, polyethylene foam, EVA foam, Croslite® (Crocs®, Boulder, Colorado), reticulated polyurethane foam, polyethylene plastic, polyurethane plastic, polypropylene plastic, polycarbonate plastic. , Rubber, silicone, or any other suitable material. In some further embodiments, the cover 870 can include additional pads or pad materials. Embodiments of partition top 30 with cover 870 may be lighter than a flap system that includes conventional fabrics, meshes, or fillers.

A. base

The golf bags 10, 1010 may further include bases 34, 1034 that form the basis of the golf bags 10, 1010. Typically, the bases 34, 1034 engage one or more stays 39, 1039 and flat portions 14, 1014 of the golf bags 10, 1010. 4, 119, and 120 show at least a partial embodiment of the golf bag bases 34, 1034 referred to in the description below. The base of the golf bags 10 and 1010 uprights the bottom surface 38, 1038 for holding the club and contacting the ground, the lips 72 and 1072 for engaging the flat portions 14, 1014, and the golf bags 10, 1010. One or more stay-accepting channels 174, 1174b, and may be provided to aid in retention in. Lips 72, 1072 extend away from bottoms 38, 1038 and define the perimeter (or circumference) of bases 34, 1034. In some embodiments, the bases 34, 1034 may further comprise means of engaging the stand assembly system for the carry bag. In some embodiments of the golf bags 10, 1010, the bases 34, 1034 may comprise a base assembly having two parts that engage via a snap-fit connection, as described below.

Bases 34, 1034 further include base stay receiving channels 174, 174b configured to receive base stay hinges 170, 1740 connecting stays 39, 1039 to bases 34, 1034. Typically, the base stay receiving channels 174, 174b are located on the inner surface of the outer rings 74, 1074 and adjacent to the back surface of the golf bags 10, 1010. Some embodiments of bases 34, 1034 may also include one or more base stay hubs for directly receiving auxiliary stays. These stay hubs can be placed on the outer surface of the outer rings 74, 1074.

The bases 34 and 1034 are provided with a flat portion mounting mechanism for fixing the flat portions 14 and 1014 to the bases 34 and 1034. The flat mounting mechanism may include mounting openings, snap buttons, surfaces or slots for engaging flats 14, 1014 or other self-fastening connecting members 50 of suitable connecting means. In most embodiments, the flat mounting mechanism is integrated with or placed on the lips 72, 1072 of the base. In some embodiments, the flat portion mounting mechanism for fixing the flat portion 1014 to the base 1034 includes a plurality of mounting openings 1728 on the lip 1072 (shown in FIG. 119). The mounting opening 1728 is arranged around (or around) the lip 1072. Each mounting opening 1728 is configured to accept fasteners to facilitate mounting of the flat portion 1014 to the lip 1072, more specifically to the base 1034 of the flat portion 1014. The attachment of the flat portions 14, 1014 to the bases 34 and 1034 will be described in more detail below.

Further, the bases 34 and 1034 can be provided with a partition mounting mechanism for fixing the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 to the bases 34 and 1034. Partition mounting mechanisms may include mounting openings, snap buttons, snap clips, other snap-fit connecting mechanisms, surfaces or slots that engage partition sleeves 46, 1046 or other self-fastening connecting members of suitable connecting means. it can.

For example, in one embodiment of the partition mounting mechanism shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the bases 34, 1034 include a plurality of slots 62 for the partition sleeve 46. The plurality of slots 62 penetrate the lip 72 and are provided around the base 34. Each slot of the plurality of slots 62 is configured to accept a respective connecting member 50, as described in more detail below (in the connecting member section). For example, in another embodiment of the partition mounting mechanism shown in FIGS. 119, 120, and 86, the bottom surfaces 38, 1038 include a plurality of partition mounting openings 1732. The partition mounting holes 1732 extend through the bottom surfaces 38 and 1038. Each partition mounting opening 1732 is configured to accept fasteners to facilitate mounting of the partition sleeve 1046 on bottoms 38, 1038, and more specifically, mounting of the partition sleeve 1046 on the base 1034. .. In another embodiment of the partition mounting mechanism, the partition sleeves 46, 1046 are sewn directly to the bases 34, 1034. Other embodiments of the partition mounting mechanism are illustrated and described in more detail below with respect to the connection of the partition sleeves 46, 1046.

1. 1. Base assembly (two-piece snap coupling base)

In some embodiments, the bases 34, 1034 can include a two-piece snap-join base assembly. The following description refers to FIGS. 77-81 showing the first embodiment of the base assembly 900 in the carry bag and FIGS. 91 and 92 showing the second embodiment of the base assembly 1900 in the cart bag.

With reference to FIGS. 77 and 91, the base assemblies 900, 1900 can include ring portions 910, 1910 and base portions 920, 1920. The ring portions 910, 1910 include upper ends 911, 1911 configured to be coupled to the flat portions 14, 1014, and lower ends 912, 1912 including a plurality of snap tabs 930, 1930. Each snap tab 930, 1930 comprises protruding surfaces 932, 1932 arranged on the outer surface and configured to couple with the base portions 920, 1920. The base portions 920, 1020 include flat bottom surfaces 938, 1938 and vertical lips 972, 1972 that define the perimeter of the base assemblies 900, 1900 and extend upward from the bottom surfaces 938, 1938. The vertical lips 972, 1972 include a plurality of slots 973, 1973. Each slot 973, 1973 is configured to receive the corresponding protruding surfaces 932, 1973 when the base assemblies 900, 1900 are in the assembled position.

With reference to FIGS. 78 and 91, the ring portions 910, 1910 of the base assemblies 900, 1900 may include upper ends 911, 1911 having a first diameter and lower ends 912, 1912 having a second diameter. .. In many embodiments, the first diameter is larger than the second diameter. When the ring portions 910, 1910 are assembled to the base portions 920, 1920, the lower ends 912, 1912 fit inside the vertical lips 972, 1972, and the upper ends 911, 1911 rest on the vertical lips 972, 1972. In addition, the first diameter can be equal to the diameter of the vertical lips 972, 1972. In other embodiments, the second diameter may be larger than the first diameter or may be the same as the first diameter. For example, in some embodiments, when the ring portions 910, 1910 are assembled to the base portions 920, 1920, the lower ends 912, 1912 fit outside the vertical lips 972, 1972, and the upper ends 911, 1911 are vertical. The second diameter is larger than the first diameter so that it rests on the lips 972, 1972.

The ring portions 910, 1910 can be provided with any suitable shape. In the illustrated embodiment, when viewed from above, the rings 910, 1910 have a square shape with rounded corners. In other embodiments, the ring can be rectangular, triangular, circular, or any other suitable shape corresponding to the bases 920, 1920.

In particular, referring to the embodiments of FIGS. 77-81, the lower end 912 of the ring portion 910 includes a plurality of snap tabs 930. Each snap tab 930 is defined by a pair of notches 931 extending upward from the lower end 912 of the ring portion 910. The notch 931 allows the snap tab 930 to bend when assembled to the base portion 920. In some embodiments, each snap tab 930 may be defined by a single notch 931 extending upward from the lower end 912 of the ring portion 910. In other embodiments, the notch 931 can extend downward from the upper end 911 of the ring portion 910. In another embodiment, the snap tab 930 can extend outward from the lower end 912 of the ring portion 910.

Referring to FIG. 79, each snap tab 930 has a protruding surface 932 located on the outer surface of the snap tab 930. In some embodiments, the protruding surface 932 has a first end 935 that forms a 90 degree step with the outer surface of the snap tab 930 and a second end 936 that tapers towards the outer surface of the snap tab 930. And can have. In other embodiments, the protrusions can include heights that remain constant, increase or decrease from the first end 935 to the second end 936. In addition, the protruding surface 932 can include a width or length that increases, decreases, or remains constant from the first end to the second end.

In the illustrated embodiment, the protruding surface 932 has a rectangular shape. In other embodiments, the protruding surface 932 can be of any shape, such as triangular, circular, trapezoidal, or any other suitable shape. Further, the protruding surface 932 can include any portion of the outer surface of the snap tab 930. In many embodiments, the protruding surface 932 constitutes 3/4 of the outer surface of the snap tab 930. In other embodiments, the protruding surface 932 can include 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of the outer portion of the snap tab 930. For example, the protruding surface 932 can include 20% to 50%, 40% to 70%, or 50% to 90% of the outer portion of the snap tab 930.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 91 and 92, the ring portion 1910 is not provided with a notch. Therefore, the snap tab 1930 is defined as a portion of the lower end 1912 of the ring portion 1910 that comprises the protruding surface 1932. These protruding surfaces 1932 extend adjacently from the bottom periphery of the lower end 1912 of the ring portion 1910 toward the upper end 1911 of the ring portion 1910. The protruding surface 1932 is inclined outward from the surface of the ring portion 1910. The snap tab 1930 is designed as a snap fit connection that engages slot 1973 of the vertical lip 1972 of the base portion 1920.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 79 and 91, the snap tab 930 has a rectangular shape when the base assembly 900 is viewed from the side. In other embodiments, the snap tab 930 can have any shape. For example, the snap tab 930 can have a triangular, circular, trapezoidal, or any other suitable shape.

With reference to FIGS. 80 and 91, base portions 920, 1920 of base assemblies 900, 1900 include bottom surfaces 938, 1938 and vertical lips 972, 1972 extending outward from the perimeter of flat bottom surfaces 938, 1938. The vertical lips 972, 1972 can include a plurality of slots 973, 1973 configured to accommodate protruding surfaces 932, 1932 arranged on snap tabs 930, 1930. The plurality of slots 973, 1973 can include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more slots. In the embodiments of FIGS. 77-81, each slot 973 starts at the bottom of the vertical lip 972 and extends halfway through the route to the top of the vertical lip 972. Base portion 920 includes cover 974, which is located inside a vertical lip 972 that covers a portion of slot 973. The cover 974 extends partially above the slot so that the bottom surface of each snap tab 930 abuts the top surface of each corresponding cover 974 when the base assembly 900 is in the assembled position.

In embodiments of FIGS. 91 and 92 (base assembly 1900), the vertical lip 1972 of the base portion 1920 further comprises a channel 1975 for receiving the lower end 1912 of the ring portion 1910. The inner wall 1976 and outer wall 1977 of the channel 1975 help align and secure the ring portion 1910 to the base portion 1920. The inner wall 1976 and outer wall 1977 of channel 1975 further add structural rigidity to the two-piece base assembly 1900. In most embodiments, when the base portion 1920 is assembled to the ring portion 1910, the lower end 1912 of the ring portion 1910 fits inside the channel 1975 of the vertical lip 1972 of the base portion 1920. In another embodiment, when the base portion 1920 is assembled to the ring portion 1910, the lower end 1912 of the ring portion 1910 fits outside the vertical lip 1972 of the base portion 1920. In yet another embodiment, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 77-81, when the base portion is assembled to the ring portion, the lower end of the ring portion fits inside the vertical lip of the base portion. In an embodiment in which the lower end of the ring portion fits outside or inside the vertical lip, the vertical lip does not include the channel 1975. In the embodiment of FIGS. 91 and 92, slot 1973 is an opening in the outer wall 1977 of channel 1975 of vertical lip 1972. In this embodiment, when the base portion 1910 engages with the ring portion 1910 of the base assembly 1900, the snap tab 1930 is visible through slot 1973.

In the illustrated embodiment, the slot has a rectangular shape. In other embodiments, the slot can include any shape when viewed from the outside of the base. For example, the slot can be triangular, circular, trapezoidal, or any other suitable shape that corresponds to the shape of the protruding surface on the snap tab.

With reference to FIGS. 81 and 92, the base assemblies 900 and 1900 in the assembled position are shown. To assemble the base assemblies 900, 1900, the snap tabs 930, 1930 of the ring portions 910, 1910 are aligned with the slots 973, 1973 of the base portions 920, 1920. The ring portions 910, 1910 are then pushed into the base portions 920, 1920. In the embodiments of FIGS. 77-81, the bottom of the snap tab 930 comes into contact with the top surface of the cover 974. Any embodiment of the base assembly can further include any of the split sleeve connecting members 50, 50c described below. The split sleeve connecting members 50, 50c connect the split sleeve 46 to either the ring portion or the base portion.

The flat bottom surfaces 938, 1938 of the base portions 920, 1920 can include raised portions such as the raised portions 1921 of FIGS. 91 and 92. The raised portions 1921 of the bottom surfaces 938 and 1938 can be substantially cross-shaped with four recesses such as the recesses 1923 left, and the bottom surfaces 938 and 1938 are not raised. The recess 1923 extends on the outer surface of the bases 34 and 1034 below the raised portions 1921 of the bottom surfaces 938 and 1938 to form four protrusions. In some embodiments, the recess 1923 comprises ridges, bumps, channels, grooves, or other grip and roughness features. These features improve durability and prevent the recess 1923 from slipping on the ground. In other embodiments, the raised portion 1921 can be circular, oval, triangular, rectangular, rhombic, or any other suitable shape. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the recess 1923 is made of a material different from that of the bottom surfaces 938, 1938.

The base assemblies 900, 1900 may further comprise a base stay receiving channel integrated with the inside of the upper ends 911, 1911 of the ring portions 910, 1910 (similar to 174, 174b described above for bases 34, 1034). In some embodiments, the ring portions 910, 1910 of the base assemblies 900, 1900 have a plurality of stay ports integrated with the ring portions 910, 1910 (for bases 34, 1034) for accepting one or more auxiliary stays. (Similar to the plurality of stay ports described above).

The two-piece base assemblies 900, 1900 allow for more efficient assembly of golf bags 10,1010 as compared to systems with one-piece bases 34, 1034. The ring portions 910, 1910 may be coupled to the flat portion via snap-fit connections, stitches, pins, buttons, clamps, zippers, or any other suitable mechanism. Base assemblies 900, 1900 provide access to the interior of the flat portion 14 through openings at the bottom of ring portions 910, 1910. This allows for an easier bonding process, as opposed to bonding the flat portions 14, 1014 to the bases 34 and 1034 by entering through the top of the golf bags 10, 1010. The coupling of the split sleeve 46 to the bases 920, 1920 can be completed prior to the coupling of the bases 920, 1920 to the ring portions 910, 1910. This provides easy access to the interior of the base portions 910, 1910, as opposed to attaching the partition sleeve 46 to the base portions 920, 1920 by entering through the top of the golf bags 10, 1010. , Allows for easier manufacturing process.

B. Split sleeve mounting mechanism

The golf bags 10, 1010 may include partition sleeves 46, 1046 to prevent entanglement of grips and shafts of different golf clubs when different golf clubs are inserted into the golf bags 10, 1010. One end of the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 can be attached to the partition tops 30 and 1030, and the other end of the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 can be attached to either the bases 34, 1034 or the flat portions 14, 1014. The partition sleeve 46 is via a mounting mechanism such as a mounting opening, a snap button, another snap-fit connection, a self-fastening connecting member of the partition sleeve 46, or other suitable connecting means, the partition tops 30, 1030, base 34, It can be attached to the 1034 and / or the flat portions 14, 1014.

1. 1. Partition sleeve mounting mechanism to the top of the partition

Here, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, in one embodiment, the partition sleeve 46 is attached to the partition top 30 by self-fastening engagement. The referenced figures are provided for illustrative purposes. Aspects of the base 34 and divider sleeve 46 disclosed herein can be incorporated into base 34, 1034 and divider sleeve 46 of any size or type. The end of the partition sleeve 46 opposite to the end of the connecting member 50 includes a plurality of flaps 90. The flaps 90 may be integrated into the divider sleeve 46, each containing a self-fastener 94 designated as a hook-and-loop fastener. As shown in FIG. 10, the self-fastening tool 94 includes a first self-fastening portion 98 separated from the second self-fastening portion 102. The first and second self-fastening portions 98, 102 are provided on the same side of the flap 90 and are separated by a distance sufficient for the flap 90 to wrap around a portion of the partition top 30. The first and second self-fastening portions 98, 102 are shown as hook 98 and loop 102 portions of the hook-and-loop fastener, respectively. However, in other embodiments, any suitable self-fastener 94 may be used as including buttons and buttonholes, hook and eye closures, or snap fasteners. In yet another embodiment, the first self-fastening portion 98 may be the hook or loop portion of the fastener, while the second self-fastening portion 102 is the other of the loop or hook portion of the fastener. May be good. As shown in FIG. 9, the flap 90 wrapped around the cross member 78 and the intermediate member 80 provides additional padding or additional pads to protect the golf club from damage caused by rubbing against the cross member 78 or the intermediate member 80. Includes pad material 104. The flap 90 that wraps around a portion of the outer ring 74 is shown without additional pad or pad material, but in other embodiments the flap 90 may include such additional pad or pad material. ..

Some embodiments of golf bags 10, 1010 include flaps similar to those described above. The flap wraps around a portion of the partition tops 30, 1030 and is sewn on itself to secure it around the partition tops 30, 1030. In these embodiments, sutures replace the hook-and-loop fasteners, which in some cases can simplify the manufacturing process.

2. Partition sleeve mounting mechanism (connecting member) to the base

In some embodiments, the mounting mechanism between the partition sleeve 46 and the bases 34, 1034 comprises a plurality of connecting members. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the carry bag 10 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is used to illustrate this feature, but the mounting mechanism can be applied to golf bags of any class, type, or size. It is understood that it can be incorporated. In the illustrated embodiment of the bag 10, a plurality of connecting members 50, more specifically four connecting members 50, connect the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34. In other embodiments, the partition sleeve 46 can be coupled to the base 34 using two, three, or five or more connecting members 50. The connecting member 50 is preferably made of a flexible, elastic, elastic material such as an elastic webbing to form a flexible and / or elastic connection between the partition sleeve 46 and the base 34. In other embodiments, any suitable material having sufficient flexibility and / or elasticity to allow the connecting member 50 to function according to the operation of the internal subassembly 42 disclosed herein. Can be used. Further, the end 56 of the connecting member 50 is attached to a partition sleeve 46 (shown in FIG. 5). The end 56 is shown to be attached to the divider sleeve 46 by stitching, but in other embodiments the end 56 provides glue, rivets, or a connection between the end 56 and the divider sleeve 46. It may be mounted by any other known or future developed mount suitable for maintenance. On the other hand, the connecting member 50 can function according to the operation of the internal subassembly 42 disclosed herein.

Here, referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, in the first embodiment, each connecting member 50 is in a self-fastening engaged state while connecting the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34 by the self-fastening tool 58. As shown in FIG. 5, the first portion of the self-fastener 58a is separated from the second portion of the self-fastener 58b. Both parts of the self-fasteners 58a and 58b are provided on the same side of the connecting member 50. As a result, each connecting member 50 is accepted into the slot 62 (shown in FIGS. 4 and 5) of the base 34, and then self-fastened by connecting the portions of the self-fasteners 58a and 58b (shown in FIG. 4). Will be done. In other words, after the connecting member 50 is received by the slot 62, the first portion 66 of the connecting member 50 is fastened to the second portion 70 of the connecting member 50 to form a self-fastening connection. The self-fastening connection allows each connecting member 50 to wrap around a portion of the base 34 to connect the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34. A plurality of slots 62 provided around the base 34 are respectively configured to receive their respective connecting members 50. The self-fastener 58 is shown in the form of a hook-and-loop fastener (eg, VELCRO®), but in other embodiments a button and buttonhole, a hook-and-eye closure, or a snap fastener. Any suitable self-fastener 58, including, can be used. Further, in other embodiments, the first portion of the self-fastener 58a may be the hook or loop portion of the fastener, and the second portion of the self-fastener 58b may be the other of the loop or hook portion of the fastener. is there. In another embodiment, the first portion 66 of the connecting member 50 is fixed to the second portion 70 in a permanent or semi-permanent arrangement (eg, by the use of an adhesive or similar material).

3. 3. Partition sleeve and base mounting mechanism (connecting member) of the alternative embodiment

FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the attachment mechanism of the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34. This alternative embodiment of self-fastening engagement that connects the divider sleeve 46 to the base 34 does not have a slot in the lip 72. Rather, the connecting member 50 engages with a portion of the bottom 71 of the base 34 to connect the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34. Specifically, the portion of the bottom 71 includes a plurality of connecting portions 73. Each connecting portion 73 is defined by two slots or openings (not shown) formed through the bottom 71 of the base 34. Each connecting member 50 is wrapped around each connecting portion 73 to form a self-connection with a hook-and-loop fastener (VELCRO®). In the illustrated golf bag 10, four connecting members 50 connect the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34.

FIG. 6B shows another alternative embodiment of the attachment mechanism of the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34. The partition sleeve 46 includes a connecting member 50b having a snap fastener or a clip 55b at the end of each connecting member 50b. As shown in FIGS. 77-81 and as described above, embodiments of this snap fastener have been described for a base assembly 900 comprising a ring portion 910 and a base surface portion 920, but other embodiments of the bases 34 and 1034. It can also be used with the form. The base 34 of the golf bags 10 and 1010 includes a ring portion 910, a base surface portion 920 that snap-fits to the ring portion 910, and a flexible connecting member 50c that connects to the ring portion 910. The flexible connecting member 50c of the base ring portion 910 has a snap fastener or clip 55c that engages with the snap fastener or clip 55b of the connecting member 50b of the partition sleeve 46. The base ring portion 910 can be sewn to the bag flat portion 14 or permanently attached as described in detail above. The two-piece, snap-bonded base assembly 900 allows fasteners or clips 55b, 55c to be easily bonded before the base surface portion 920 is snap-bonded onto the base ring portion 910. By connecting the partition sleeve 46 to the bases 34 and 1034 using snap fasteners or clips 55b and 55c, it is not necessary to provide slots in the bases 34 and 1034. In another modification of this embodiment, the base connecting member 50c is attached to the base surface portion 920.

In other embodiments not shown, the one-piece base can include a flexible connecting member (similar to 50c) and a snap fastener or clip (similar to 55c). The base is connected to the flat portion of the golf bag before the partition sleeve is attached to the base. A partition sleeve containing a connecting member (similar to 50b) and a snap fastener or clip (similar to 55b) can be connected to the partition top. Snap fasteners or clips on the base and divider sleeves allow the assembler to easily connect the divider sleeve to the base.

C. Stay

The golf bags 10, 1010 may include bases 34, 1034, and one or more stays 39, 1039, 1039a, 1039b (hereinafter, 39, 1039) connecting the partition tops 30, 1030. One or more stays 39, 1039 give rigidity to the golf bags 10, 1010 in the deployed form. One or more stays 39, 1039 can be rotatably connected to bases 34, 1034 and / or partition tops 30, 1030 via hinges. One or more stays 39, 1039 and / or hinges can be engaged with bases 34, 1034 and / or partition tops 30, 1030 by one or more snap-fit connections. The top and base stay hinges 162, 170 allow the partition tops 30, 1030 and bases 34, 1034 to be folded or crushed towards stays 39, 1039. In subassemblies with partition tops 30, 1030, bases 34, 1034, and one or more stays 39, 1039, hinges 162, 170 allow the subassemblies to collapse for transport or storage.

21-29 show snap-fit subassemblies for swivel stays 39 (see FIG. 2). 21 to 22 show a first or top stay hinge 162 rotatably connected to the partition top 30. With reference to FIGS. 25-26, the top stay hinge 162 includes a first portion or first arm 163 that is rotatably connected to a second portion or second arm 164 by a joint 165. The first arm 163 is connected to the partition top 30 (shown in FIG. 21). The second arm 164 is connected to a stay 39 (shown in FIG. 22). For example, the first arm 163 can be received in a corresponding channel (not shown) within the partition top 30. On the other hand, the second arm 164 can define a channel or sleeve portion 166 that receives the first end or apex of the stay 39.

The top stay hinge 162 has a first position (shown in FIG. 23) where the first and second arms 163 and 164 are arranged at an angle to each other and the first and second arms 163 and 164 are relative to each other. It turns at the joint 165 between a second position (shown in FIG. 24) that forms a straight angle to it (eg, 180 degrees) or is generally in the same straight line. In some embodiments, the first and second arms 163 and 164 are tilted at a maximum angle between 170 ° and 190 °. The first and second arms 163 and 164 are 30-40 degrees, 35-45 degrees, 40-50 degrees, 45-55 degrees, 50-60 degrees, 60-70 degrees, 70-80 degrees, 80-90. Degrees, 90-100 degrees, 100-110 degrees, 110-120 degrees, 120-130 degrees, 130-140 degrees, 140-150 degrees, 150-160 degrees, 160-170 degrees, 170-180 degrees, or 180- Can be angled 190 degrees to each other. The top stay hinge 162 is such that the second arm 164 is located on the outer ring 74 from a position where the second arm 164 is approximately perpendicular to a portion of the outer ring 74 (as shown in FIG. 22). Turn about 90 degrees (90 °) to a position that is almost parallel to a part.

To limit the hyperextension of the top stay hinge 162 during the transition from the first position (which occurs when the golf bag 10 is folded) to the second position (which occurs when the golf bag 10 is unfolded). The top stay hinge 162 includes a hinge limit 167. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge limit 167 is placed on one of the first or second arms 163, 164 and received by the notch 169 (located on the other side of the second or first arm 163, 164). Includes hinge protrusion 168. When the top stay hinge 162 is rotated from the first position (shown in FIG. 23) to the second position (shown in FIG. 24), the notch 169 makes the protrusion 168 when the top stay hinge 162 reaches the second position. accept. The portions of the first and second arms 163 and 164 are in contact with each other, further limiting the rotation or rotation of the top stay hinge 162. The hinge limit 167 helps prevent the partition top 30 from overextending during self-assembly.

FIG. 25 shows a second or bottom or base stay hinge 170 rotatably connected to the base 34. As shown in FIGS. 26A-28B, the base stay hinge 170 is flexibly connected to the second portion or the second arm 172 by a spring or urging portion 173, the first portion or the first. Includes arm 171. The first arm 171 is connected to the base 34 and the second arm 172 is connected to the stay 39. For example, the first arm 171 can receive or engage the stay receiving channel 174 defined by the base 34 (shown in FIGS. 4-5 and 25). On the other hand, the second arm 172 may define a channel 175 that receives a portion of the stay 39 (shown in FIGS. 5 and 25). As shown in FIG. 28, the hinge 170 bends at the urging portion 173. As a result, the first and second arms 171 and 172 can bend with respect to each other. In some embodiments, the urging portion 173 may include protrusions or ridges that reinforce the urging portion 173, as shown in FIGS. 26A, 27A, and 28A. In another embodiment, the urging portion 173 comprises a smooth surface, as shown in FIGS. 26B, 27B, 27C, and 28B. Similarly, the components attached to the first and second arms 171 and 172 (eg, base 34 and stay 39, respectively) bend or swivel with respect to each other.

The base stay hinge 170 facilitates the swivel of the base 34 around the stay 39 in order to transform the golf bag 10 from a folded state to an unfolded state. In some embodiments, the first and second arms 171 and 172 are at angles of up to 170 ° to 190 ° with respect to each other. The first and second arms 171 and 172 may be at an angle of 30 to 190 degrees with respect to each other. For example, the first and second arms 171 and 172 of the base stay hinge 170 are 30 to 40 degrees, 35 to 45 degrees, 40 to 50 degrees, 45 to 55 degrees, 50 to 60 degrees, 60 to 70 degrees, 70. -80 degrees, 80-90 degrees, 90-100 degrees, 100-110 degrees, 110-120 degrees, 120-130 degrees, 130-140 degrees, 140-150 degrees, 150-160 degrees, 160-170 degrees, 170 They can be angled to each other by ~ 180 degrees, or 180-190 degrees. In one embodiment, the base stay hinge 170 swivels up to about 90 degrees (90 °) from a position approximately perpendicular to a portion of the side wall 178 of the base 34 to a position approximately parallel to a portion of the side wall 178 of the base 34. It is configured to do. In some embodiments, the stay hinges 162, 170 are not mechanically swivel but flexibly swivel.

In an embodiment of a golf bag having a stand assembly, the base stay hinge 170 also has the golf bag 10 in use from a first form (see FIG. 3 with the legs 40 retracted) to a second form (see FIG. 3 with the legs 40 retracted). It can help tilt the stay 39 around the base 34 when transitioning to (see FIG. 2) with the legs 40 spread out. In some embodiments, the first and second arms 171, 172 of the base stay hinge 170 may form an angle of 120-150 degrees with respect to each other when the golf bag 10 is in the expanded form. For example, in the expanded form, the first and second arms 171, 172 of the base stay hinge 170 are only 120-130 degrees, 130-140 degrees, 140-150 degrees, 150-160 degrees, or 160-170 degrees. Can be angled with each other. In some embodiments, the first and second arms 171, 172 of the base stay hinge 170 may be at an angle of 170-190 degrees with respect to each other when the golf bag 10 is in the retracted form. For example, in the retracted form, the first and second arms 171, 172 of the base stay hinge 170 may be at an angle of 170 ° to 180 °, 175 ° to 185 °, or 180 ° to 190 ° with respect to each other. it can.

The snap-fit subassembly allows the stay 39 to interconnect the partition top 30 and the base 34 by a snap-fit connection, while the subassembly parts (eg, partition top 30, base 34, and stay 39). Allows to be swiveled flat for more cost-effective transportation by reducing the packaging volume. The stay hinges 162, 170 are provided from a position where the partition top 30 and the base 34 are substantially perpendicular to the stay 39 (eg, when the legs 40 are retracted for the stand bag or retracted into the cart bag). , Allows it to swivel around the stay 39 to a position approximately parallel to the stay 39 (as shown in FIG. 29). As a result of the form shown in FIG. 29, the partition top 30 is offset from the stay 39 and is in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the stay 39. Although not shown, the base 34 is also offset from the stay 39 and is in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the stay 39, and the base 34 and the partition top 30 are in a plane approximately parallel or substantially the same.

In another embodiment of the snap-fit subassembly for the swivel stay 39 shown in FIGS. 117-120, the subassembly comprises a first or top stay hinge 1740 and a second or base stay hinge 1744. The top stay hinge 1740 can be similar to either the top stay hinge 162 or the base stay hinge 170. The base stay hinge 1744 can be similar to either the top stay hinge 162 or the base stay hinge 170. In short, any suitable hinge design can be implemented to allow bending or rotation at any end of the swivel stay 39. In some embodiments, the top stay hinge and the bottom stay hinge may be formed integrally with the stay 39.

D. Flat part

Golf bags 10, 1010 further include flat portions 14, 1014 that can be provided with a tubular or rectangular surface having sides that are fixed to form a tubular shape. The flat portions 14, 1014 form the side surfaces of the main body of the golf bags 10, 1010. The flat portions 14, 1014 extend between the partition tops 30, 1030 and the bases 34, 1034. The flat portions 14, 1014 can function as a framework including a golf club in the golf bags 10, 1010. In some embodiments, the flat portions 14, 1014 can snap fit to the subassemblies 42, 1042 of the golf bags 10, 1010. At least a portion of the flats 14, 1014 can be sewn onto the subassemblies 42, 1042. At least a portion of the flats 14, 1014 can be riveted onto the subassemblies 42, 1042. Various embodiments of golf bags 10, 1010 include different combinations of methods for connecting the flat portions 14, 1014 to the subassemblies 42, 1042 below.

In some embodiments, the flat portions 14, 1014 can be provided as tubular units designed to slide and snap fit onto the partition tops 30, 1030. In other embodiments, the flat portions 14, 1014 are provided as open units (rather than tubular), such as the flat portions 14 shown in FIGS. 30 and 31. The open flats 14, 1014 can be assembled into a tubular configuration via sutures or fasteners (eg, zippers or snap-fit connections). In some embodiments, the flat portions 14, 1014 are provided either tubular or open and may be secured to partition tops 30, 1030 and / or bases 34, 1034 using molded snap tree members. ..

Flat portions 14, 1014 are generally formed from a single material or two or more materials with pockets 18, 1018, handles 22, 1022, and shoulder straps 24, 1024 attached. The pockets 18, 1018 can be separated from the flat portions 14, 1014 and made removable. For example, each pocket 18, 1018 has a flat portion 14, with removable attachments such as snap-fit buttons, hook-and-loop fasteners (eg, VELCRO®), or one or more zippers, as described below. It may be connected to 1014. Removable pockets 18, 1018 allow custom configuration or reconstruction of the size, number, or location of different pockets 18, 1018 on the flats 14, 1014.

1. 1. Mounting mechanism via snap-fit connector to flat partition top or base

FIGS. 30-31 show the open flat portion 14 forming a snap-fit connection with the subassembly during assembly to form the golf bag 10. FIG. 30 shows the outside of the flat portion 14, that is, the first side surface. FIG. 31 shows the inside or the second side surface of the flat portion 14. The flat portion 14 includes a bottom or base end 182 and a top end 186. Both ends (male or female snaps) for engaging with the respective snap-fit connectors 194 provided on the partition top 30 and base 34 of the subassembly (shown as female or male snap-fit button 194 in FIG. 47). Includes multiple snap-fit connectors 190 (shown as fit buttons 190). The plurality of snap-fit connectors 190 on the flat portion 14 and the respective snap-fit connectors 194 on the partition top 30 and the base 34 can reduce the assembly time as compared with the golf bag without the snap-fit connector. To. Further, the snap-fit connectors 190, 194 eliminate the need for tools and equipment required to rivet or sew the flat portion to the partition top 30 and / or the base 34.

2. Mounting mechanism via snap-fit collar to the partition top of the flat part

Tubular flats 14, 1014 can also be connected to the subassembly via snap-fit connections. With reference to FIGS. 93A-93C, in one embodiment of the golf bag 10, the golf bag 10 has a partition top 230 (similar to the partition top 30) and a top end 286 (similar to the top 186 of the flat portion 14). Includes at least a tubular golf bag flat portion 214 (similar to the flat portion 14). The flat portion 214 includes a flexible collar 210. The flexible collar 210 allows the tubular flat portion 214 to slide around the partition top 230 of the golf bag 10 and overlap the partition top 230 during assembly. The collar 210 of the bag flat portion 214 includes one or more reinforcing walls 216, snap connectors 224, elastic portions 222, and zippers 225 to facilitate the assembly process. The partition top 230 includes a molded body and a cloth cover having an external snap connector 234. The snap connector 224 on the collar 210 of the bag flat portion 214 engages with the snap connector 234 of the partition top 230 to attach the bag flat portion 214 to the partition top 230. The reinforcing wall 216 of the collar 210 of the bag flat portion 214 provides some rigidity to the bag flat portion 214. The elastic portion 222 of the bag flat portion collar 210 connects the two reinforcing walls 216 and provides the bag flat portion 214 with the flexibility required for assembling the snap connectors 224 and 234. The zipper 225 of the bag flat collar 210 allows flexibility during assembly, but closes at the final stage of assembly to hold the bag flat 214 snugly against the finished bag divider 230. Be done.

The collar 210 of the bag flat portion 214 may include one or more reinforcing walls 216. In most embodiments, when the bag flat portion 214 engages with the partition top 230, the wall of the collar 210 of the bag flat portion 214 is adjacent to and substantially parallel to the side of the partition top 230. Reinforcing wall 216 provides some rigidity to the bag flat portion 214. In many embodiments, these walls 216 may be flat sheets that include a wall width of 218 and a wall height of 220. For each wall 216, the wall width 218 is approximately the same as the width of the side of the partition top 230 corresponding to each collar wall 216 when measured parallel to the base of the bag and along the bottom of the reinforcing wall 216. .. In this way, the collar 210 of the bag flat portion 214 engages with the outer surface of the partition top 230. The wall height 220 of the bag flat portion collar 210 can be changed. For example, in some embodiments, the rear wall of the bag flat portion 214 has a height higher than the height of the front wall of the bag flat portion 214. In some embodiments, the walls 216 corresponding to the left and right sides of the bag flat collar 210 can have various heights 220 across the width 218 of each section, as shown in FIG. The wall 216 of the flexible collar 210 can be formed from a material such as open cell foam such as sponge or closed cell foam such as Crocslite ™ (Crocs ™, Boulder, Colorado) material. Alternatively, the wall 216 of the collar 210 can be formed from a molded thermoplastic material such as silicone, or another type of thermoplastic elastomer.

The wall 216 of the collar 210 can be placed in the mesh cover. The mesh cover secures the wall 216 together. The mesh cover 216 includes a cloth or mesh panel to cover the inner and outer layers of each wall 216. The mesh cover further comprises a edging that surrounds the edges of the top 211 and bottom 212 of the collar 210 of the bag flat. The zipper 225 of the collar 210 can form a connection between the two walls 216 of the collar 210 of the bag flat portion 214. In some embodiments, the zipper 225 can be placed between the rear wall and the side wall of the collar 210. The zipper 225 can extend from the lower edge 212 of the collar 210 to the upper edge 211. The zipper 225 can include a first row 228a and a second row 228b of zipper teeth, a zipper car 226, and a zipper garage 228. The first row of zipper teeth 228a extends approximately vertically along the edges of the collar wall 216. The second row of zipper teeth 228b extends approximately vertically along the edge of the adjacent collar wall 216. The zipper car 226 is such that the zipper 225 is closed when the car 226 is adjacent to the upper edge 211 of the collar 210 and the zipper 225 is opened when the car 226 is adjacent to the lower edge 212 of the collar 210 of the flat portion 214. Can be attached to the row of zipper teeth 228. The zipper 225 does not completely separate the collar parts. The zipper 225 provides flexibility that allows the collar 210 to stretch when the zipper 225 is open. The extension of the collar 210 when the zipper 225 is open allows the collar 210 on the flat portion of the bag to slide over the desired portion of the partition top 230 during assembly.

One section of the top mesh edging comprises an elastic portion 222 that bridges between two collar walls 216 with a first zipper dentition 228a and a second zipper dentition 228b. When the zipper 225 is open, the elastic portion 222 can be stretched to extend the collar 210. On the contrary, when the zipper 225 is closed, the elastic portion 222 cannot be stretched, and the collar 210 of the flat portion 214 is more rigid. When the zipper 225 is closed, the zipper car 226 is housed in the zipper garage 227 adjacent to the upper edge 211 of the flat portion 214.

The bag flat portion 214 further includes a snap connector 224 on the inner surface of the collar 210. The snap connector 224 corresponds to the snap connector 234 on the outer surface of the partition top 230. The position of the snap connector 224 on the collar 210 determines where the bag flat portion 214 is located relative to the partition top 230 during assembly. The bag flat portion snap connector 224 can be fixed to the corresponding snap connector 234 of the partition top 230. In some embodiments, the snap connector 224 on the collar 210 of the flat bag 214 is located approximately in the middle between the upper and lower edges 212 of the collar 210. In another embodiment, the snap connector 224 is located at a constant distance from the lower edge 212 of the collar 210. In some embodiments, snap connectors 224 are evenly spaced around the inner surface of the collar 210 of the flat portion 214. Snap connectors 224 and 234 can be button snaps or any other suitable type of snap connector.

3. 3. Mounting mechanism via alternative snap-fit connection to the flat partition top or base

The flat portions 14, 1014 of the golf bags 10, 1010 can be attached via alternative means and designs. Such an alternative snap-fit connection between the flat portion 14 and the partition top 30 and / or the base 34 is shown in FIGS. 32-34. The embodiment of the flat portion 14 includes a plurality of punched holes 195 around the periphery. On the other hand, an embodiment of the base 34 includes a plurality of corresponding punch holes 196 around the perimeter. The punched holes 195 of the flat portion 14 and the punched holes 196 of the base 34 are arranged so as to be aligned with each other. Strips 197 of the flexible molded snap tree or snap tree member 198 engage the aligned punch holes 195, 196. Each aligned hole 195, 196 of the flat portion 14 and the base 34 receives a single tree 198 (see FIG. 34). Although FIGS. 32 to 34 show an alternative snap-fit connection between the flat portion 14 and the base 34, the same alternative snap-fit connection may be used between the flat portion 14 and the partition top 30. In yet another embodiment, the flat portion 14 is provided with a hook-and-loop fastener (eg, VELCRO®), a hook and hook fastener, a button, or any other suitable snap-fit fastener or fixed assembly. , Can form a snap fit attachment with the subassembly 42.

Alternative embodiments, such as golf bags with a two-piece base, are sewn or connected directly to the base and partition top. Therefore, the flat portion 14 does not have a snap-fit connection.

The flat portion 14 also includes a reinforcing ring 200 at the apex end 186 to provide additional reinforcement and rigidity around the partition apex 30 (see FIG. 31). In an embodiment of a golf bag having a stand assembly, the flat portion 14 may also include a plurality of windows, such as the window 428 of the flat portion 414 of FIGS. 101-104. Each of these windows allows the anchor 122 of the leg mounting bracket 30 to project, exposing the anchor 122 and facilitating snap-fitting and swivel connection with the leg 40. This allows the flat portion 14 to be interchangeable between the cart bag subassembly and the carry (or stand) bag subassembly.

The flat portion 14 includes a seam 202 (see FIG. 52) defined by a first seam edge 203 facing a second seam edge 204 (see FIG. 31). The first seam edge 203 is sewn onto the second seam edge 204 to form the tubular outer shell of the golf bag. In another embodiment of the subassembly 42, the seam edges 203, 204 of the flat portion 14 have a single zipper, two zippers, a hook-and-loop fastener (VELCRO®), and a tongue that fits within the associated rail. Attached by a mounting track, snap fitting button, or any other suitable snap fitting fastener or fixing assembly. In some configurations, a single zipper attaches edges 203, 204 at the center of the flat 14 and the top and / or bottom of the flat 14 is a snap-fit button, hook loop fastener (VELCRO®). It is fixed by such as. In another construction, two zippers connect the two separate seams of the flat section 14 to the subassembly 42. In yet another embodiment, the flat portion 14 may be split into a plurality of portions that are attached to the subassembly 42 by snap-fit attachment. However, the advantage of a single seam is the easier waterproofing of the flat section 14 and the single mounting wire for wrapping the flat section 14 around the subassembly 42.

E. Flat pocket

In addition to mounting mechanisms, seams, and other features, the flats 14, 1014 provide one or more pockets 18, for storing clothing, golf equipment, golf accessories, and / or other personal items. 1018 can be further provided. The pockets 18 and 1018 of the flat portions 14 and 1014 can be resized and shaped according to the desired function of the pockets 18 and 1018. Some pockets 18, 1018 are constructed or sewn into flat portions 14, 1014 to make them non-removable. The pockets 18, 1018 can include one or more pockets, commonly referred to as "clothing pockets", "ball pockets", or "accessory pockets". Some pockets 18, 1018 are removable or configured to be connected to the flat portions 14, 1014, making them attachable or removable (hereinafter referred to as "removable"). .. These removable pockets can be attached to the golf bags 10 and 1010 during the second phase of the manufacturing process. The flat portions 14, 1014 may include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten pockets 18, 1018. In some embodiments, one or more of the pockets 18, 1018 may be located above, in front of, or inside another pocket. One or more of the pockets 18, 1018 may be provided with an opening that does not have a closing mechanism. One or more of the pockets 18, 1018 may be provided with an opening having a closing mechanism such as a zipper, snap-fit connection, fasteners, buttons, or magnets. Embodiments of the particular pocket will be described in detail below.

1. 1. Detachable pocket

One possible embodiment of the golf bag flats 14, 1014 includes one or more customizable, removable (or removable) golf bag pockets. 107 to 109 show a golf bag 10 having a removable golf bag pocket. This removable pocket can be associated with a golf bag 10, a golf bag 1010, or any other golf bag. Golf bag customization is currently a time consuming process. By including a removable golf bag pocket as an option for the golf bag, the manufacturer can quickly customize the golf bag. In addition, the removable pocket reduces transport costs by making the golf bag transportable in parts, thus reducing transport volume. Although the following description shows only the removable clothing pocket 1620, it should be understood that other pockets may include similar removable designs. For example, the carry bag 10 may include a removable ball pocket (on the back surface 12 of the golf bag), a removable accessory pocket (on the right side of the golf bag as depicted in FIG. 1B), or another pocket. ..

In some embodiments, the pocket 18 can be manufactured separately from the bag flat portion 14, as shown in FIGS. 107-110. The pocket 18 can be attached to and removed from the flat portion 14 of the bag. In other embodiments, some of the pockets can be manufactured integrally with the bag flats 14, while the remaining pockets can be removable. In some embodiments, the golf bag 1010 has one removable pocket, two removable pockets, three removable pockets, four removable pockets, five removable pockets, or any number. Can include removable pockets. The embodiment of FIG. 107 shows a carry bag 10 having one removable pocket 1620. In the embodiment having the removable pocket 1620, the bag flat portion 14 can further include a first receiving mechanism 1621 and a second receiving mechanism 1622. The first and second receiving mechanisms are configured to receive and secure removable pockets. The first and second receiving mechanisms can be zipper teeth, VELCRO®, snap buttons, snap fit connectors, openings, recesses, ties, or any other suitable attachment receiving mechanism.

When the removable pocket of the golf bag is arranged so that it attaches to the bag flat, the removable pocket has a surface adjacent to the bag flat 1625 and a perimeter 1626 of the surface adjacent to the bag flat. Be prepared. The removable pocket 1620 may further comprise a first mounting mechanism 1623 and a second mounting mechanism 1624. The first and second mounting mechanisms can be placed on the perimeter and / or surface adjacent to the bag flat portion 1625. The first mounting mechanism 1623 is configured to be received by the first receiving mechanism 1621 on the flat portion of the bag. The second mounting mechanism 1624 is configured to be received by the second receiving mechanism 1622 on the flat portion of the bag.

In many embodiments as shown in FIGS. 107-109, the first mounting mechanism 1623 may be a zipper and the second mounting mechanism 1624 may be a VELCRO®. Therefore, the first receiving mechanism 1621 may be a zipper tooth, and the second receiving mechanism 1622 may be a VELCRO (registered trademark). In other embodiments, the first and second mounting mechanisms allow the separation of zippers, VELCRO (R), snap buttons, buttons, fasteners, laces, hooks, buckles, or separable pockets 1620. It may be a mounting mechanism. In consideration of the above, the reference of the first mounting mechanism 1623 is hereinafter referred to as a zipper, and the reference of the second mounting mechanism 1624 is hereinafter referred to as VELCRO®, which is a reference of the first receiving mechanism 1621. Is hereinafter referred to as a zipper tooth, and the reference of the second receiving mechanism 1622 is hereinafter referred to as VELCRO (registered trademark).

As shown in FIGS. 108 and 109, the removable pocket zipper 1623 can extend along the seam along at least one side of the perimeter 1626. In another embodiment, the zipper 1623 of the removable pocket 1620 can extend along the entire perimeter 1626 along the surface seams adjacent to the bag flats 14. The removable pocket zipper 1623 aligns and fits with the zipper teeth 1621 on the flat part of the bag. The zipper 1623 functions as an alignment mechanism for correctly orienting the removable pocket 1620 with respect to the flat bag portion 14. The zipper 1623 further functions as a main mounting mechanism for fixing the removable pocket 1620 onto the flat bag portion 14. In some embodiments, the zipper 1623 can be a single continuous zipper extending along a portion of the perimeter. In other embodiments, the zipper 1623 can be a plurality of discontinuous zippers along a portion of the perimeter.

As shown in FIG. 110, in some embodiments, the receiving zipper teeth 1621 can be hidden from view under the lip 1627 of the golf bag flat portion 14. The lip 1627 also hides the zipper 1623 of the removable pocket 1620 when the removable pocket 1620 is attached to the golf bag 10. In these embodiments, when the pocket 1620 is attached, it appears to be permanently attached to the bag, but functionally the pocket 1620 is removable. Lip 1627 gives the golf bag a clean look without sacrificing adaptability and manufacturing efficiency.

As shown in FIGS. 108 and 109, the removable pocket Velcro® 1624 can be placed on the surface adjacent to the bag flat portion 14 in close proximity to some of the perimeter voids of the fastener. .. In another embodiment, VELCRO® 1624 can be placed anywhere on the surface adjacent to the bag flat. The removable pocket VELCRO® 1624 aligns and fits with the VELCRO® 1624 on the flat portion 14 of the bag. The removable pocket 1620 Velcro® 1624 acts as a second fixing means for keeping the removable pocket flat and stationary with respect to the bag. This prevents the removable pockets from shaking when the golf bag is in motion. In many embodiments, VELCRO® 1624 can be a circular patch on the surface adjacent to the bag flat. In other embodiments, VELCRO® 1624 can be a triangular patch, a square patch, an octagonal patch, any polygonal patch, or a single continuous long strip. In some embodiments, there may be one patch / strip, two patches / strips, three patches / strips, four patches / strips, five patches / strips, or six patches / strips.

2. Detachable pocket alternative mounting mechanism

In other embodiments not shown, the removable pocket can include a first mounting mechanism similar to the first mounting mechanism 1623 of the removable pocket 1620 described above. The removable pocket may further include a second mounting mechanism located adjacent to the base end of the golf bag. In this embodiment, the second mounting mechanism includes a receiving portion and a core portion. The core portion is attached to the flat portion of the golf bag. The receiving portion is attached to a removable pocket. The receiving portion channel is configured to receive the core portion to secure the removable pocket to the flat portion. In yet another embodiment (not shown), a second receiving mechanism for the flat portion and a second mounting mechanism for the removable pocket comprises a snap-fit connector element or clip.

3. 3. Detachable pocket customization

The removable pocket 1620 and the bag flat portion 14 can be manufactured in a number of different colors. This allows the manufacturer to combine multiple colors of the bag flat portion 14 and the removable pocket 1620 for a particular color scheme based on a customized order. The removable pocket 1620 further simplifies the customized logo process due to its different sizes. Incorporating a customized logo (eg, school mascot / school name) into a golf bag is much easier on the removable pocket 1620 than a pocket permanently attached to the golf bag. The process of screen-printing or embroidering a logo on an item is quicker and easier on small items such as pockets than on large bulky items such as golf bags.

The ability to combine any colored removable pocket with any colored bag flats 14, combined with a simplified customized logo process, can deliver custom bag orders from about 90-180 days to about. It can be shortened to 30-45 days. Shortening the delivery time by more than half increases customer satisfaction. In addition, golf bags with removable pockets can be packaged separately in smaller volume packages. This reduces the overall volume size of the package that houses the golf bag. The two separate small capacity packages combined have lower shipping costs compared to a single large capacity package that houses a golf bag with permanently attached pockets. By reducing consumer shipping costs, consumer satisfaction can be further increased. In addition, removable pockets can simplify inventory in the warehouse by pocket type and / or color. Therefore, it increases the organization and assembly of the warehouse.

4. Quick access pocket (in-play pocket)

The flats 14, 1014 may further be provided with quick access pockets for storing small accessories such as golf tees or golf balls that the player may want to access during a round of golf. 105A-106 show a golf bag having a quick access pocket 1600 (the quick access pocket may also be referred to as an "inplay pocket", a "quick access zippered pocket", or a "magnetic zippered pocket"). The quick access pocket 1600 may be associated with a golf bag 10, a golf bag 1010, and / or any other suitable golf bag. The quick access pocket 1600 can be similar to one or more pockets 18 of the golf bag flats 14, 1014. The golf bag quick access pocket 1600 includes a zipper 1601 and a magnetic mechanism 1602. This pocket acts as a quick access pocket during play, but can be securely closed by the zipper 1601 during transport or during longer mobile use. The magnetic mechanism 1602 can be used to hold the pocket lid 1605 in a closed state during golf play, but the lid can be opened quickly when needed. The golf pocket 1600 further comprises a rigid lip 1603 around the inside of the pocket opening to ensure that items do not fall during play and to improve the structural integrity of the pocket.

The Quick Access Pocket 1600 serves two distinct functions. One function is to hold the item in the golf bag during transportation or storage. Another feature is to hold items during play. The zipper 1601 satisfies the first (transportation / storage) function. The magnet mechanism 1602 and the rigid lip 1603 satisfy the second (quick access) function.

The quick access pocket 1600 can be used to secure an item within the golf bag 10. The pocket 1600 can have a variety of body shapes and sizes. The pocket lid 1605 covers the opening of the pocket 1600. In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 105A-106, the pocket openings include a hinge side surface 1604 to which the lid 1605 connects to the body and three sides that allow access to the pocket 1600 when the lid 1605 is open. To be equipped with. The lid 1605 may contain polyethylene to increase rigidity. The lid 1605 can contain other suitable materials.

Features that secure the article in pocket 1600 include a zipper 1601, a magnet 1602, and a rigid lip 1603 around the inside of the opening. The zipper 1601 surrounds the outside of the opening along three sides that allow access to the pocket. The zipper 1601 connects the lid 1605 to the body of the pocket. Thereby, all stored articles as well as the magnet mechanism 1602 and the rigid lip 1603 mechanism can be surrounded. The magnet mechanism 1602 includes an upper magnet and a lower magnet. The upper magnet is embedded in the lid 1605 of the pocket 1600 corresponding to the lower magnet embedded in the rigid lip 1603. The upper magnet connects to the lower magnet when the lid 1605 is closed. The rigid lip 1603 extends along the inside of the three sides that allow access to the pocket. The rigid lip 1603 extends from these three sides of the opening towards the center of the pocket opening. The rigid lip 1603 can extend from the sides to various lengths, such as between 0.5 inches and 2 inches. The rigid lip mechanism 1603 contributes to the structural integrity of the golf pocket and houses the lower magnet. Lip 1603 also provides a platform on which the lid 1605 rests when the lid is closed. The rigid lip 1603 can be constructed of polyethylene or other suitable material.

By combining the zipper 1601 with the magnet mechanism 1602 and the rigid lip 1603, the cost can be lower than the cost of existing quick access pockets that use multiple magnets to ensure storage. Incorporating the zipper 1601 and limiting the number of magnets reduces the cost of the final product and provides a more reliable way to secure the pocket 1600 in the closed state.

The quick access pocket 1600 of the present invention can be used with various golf bag designs. The pocket 1600 can be located at the top of the bag or at the bottom of the golf bag. FIG. 106 shows a first possible position 1606 and a second possible position 1607 for the quick access pocket 1600.

5. Shoe pocket

Some embodiments of golf bag flats 14, 1014 can include deployable shoe pocket assemblies for storing a pair of shoes. When not in use, the shoe pocket can be stored in a hidden compartment inside the golf bag. 35 to 46 show a deployable shoe pocket assembly 300 attached to the golf bag 10. The shoe pocket assembly 300 is deployed between an unfolded (or first) configuration (shown in FIGS. 35-36) and a retracted (or second) configuration (shown in FIG. 37). It is possible. Particularly with reference to FIG. 35, the shoe pocket assembly 300 includes a shoe pocket 304 that defines a compartment 308 configured to accommodate one shoe (or pair of shoes). One end of the shoe pocket 304 defines an opening 312 to provide access to the compartment 308. The perimeter of the opening 312 can be formed of an elastic material 316 that is urged inward and contracts the opening 312 to its relaxed position. This facilitates the retention of the shoe (or shoes) received by the shoe pocket 304, while reducing the size of the shoe pocket 304 when not in use.

FIG. 36 shows the shoe pocket 304 in the unfolded form. The pocket 18 can be attached to the flat portion 14 along a seam (or other suitable fastener). Part of the seam can define access port 317 to storage channel 319. The storage channel 319 is partially defined by the flat portion 14 and partially defined by the pocket 18 (see FIGS. 36 and 37). The shoe pocket 304 is attached to the pocket 18 by fasteners 318 (eg, clips, sutures, etc.) in the gusset 320. The gusset 320 can be placed at the edge of the pocket 18 or at any other suitable portion of the pocket 18. In another embodiment, the shoe pocket 304 can be attached to a portion of the flat portion 14 (eg, a gusset on the flat portion 14).

FIG. 37 shows the shoe pocket 304 in the storage form. In this configuration, the shoe pocket 304 is located within the storage channel 319 as indicated by the arrow 324 (the shoe pocket 304 is indicated by a dashed line in the expanded configuration). Thus, the user can choose to deploy the shoe pocket 304 to store the shoe and to store the shoe pocket 304 in the storage form when not in use.

In the illustrated embodiment, the shoe pocket assembly 300 is located on the opposite side of the golf bag 10 from the handle 22 and / or the strap 24 (eg, the "ventral" side of the golf bag 10). In another embodiment, the shoe pocket assembly 300 can be placed in any suitable position on the golf bag 10. Further, the illustrated embodiment shows a single shoe received in the shoe pocket 304. Therefore, the shoe pocket assembly 300 can include two shoe pockets 304 that accommodate a pair of shoes, as shown in FIG. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 38, the shoe pocket 304 is attached to a separate pocket 18. However, in other embodiments, both shoe pockets 304 can be attached to a single pocket 18. As shown in FIG. 39, each shoe pocket 304 is made of elastic or stretchable mesh material 328. In other embodiments, the shoe pocket 304 can be made of any suitable material (eg, nylon, polyester, etc.). In addition, each shoe pocket 304 is sized to accept and carry the shoe. The shoe pocket 304 is about 30 cm high and about 17.5 cm long, which defines the perimeter of the opening 312 as about 35 cm. In other embodiments, the shoe pocket 304 may be of any size suitable for carrying one shoe, or may be of a size suitable for carrying a pair of shoes. The shoes accepted in the shoe assembly 300 are any suitable shoes (eg, golf shoes when the golf bag 10 is being carried away from the golf course, the golf bag 10 being carried on or around the golf course. Can include street shoes when you are.

6. Cooler bag pocket

In some embodiments of golf bags 10, 1010, the flat portion comprises a pocket for storing a removable cooler bag. FIG. 109a shows an embodiment of a golf bag that includes a pocket for receiving a removable cooler bag 1500. The removable cooler bag 1500 can be associated with the golf bag 10 and / or the golf bag 1010. The removable cooler bag 1500 may be included in the subassembly golf bag package, or the cooler bag may be supplied separately to the user. The removable cooler bag 1500 is designed to fit into the golf cart bag / golf carry bag 10 compartment. The removable cooler bag 1500 can be insulated and completely sealed, or it can be completely sealed without insulation. An internal pocket can be built inside the bag that fits into a standard refreeze gel ice pack.

The cooler bag can be uniquely molded to fit inside an existing cart or carry bag. FIG. 109b includes a diagram of a second embodiment 1510 of the cooler bag 1500. In a second embodiment, the removable cooler bag can include a single bag entity with a latch handle 1513. In the first embodiment 1500, the cooler bag can have a plurality of coupled components such as a lid 1501, a main bag body 1502, a handle 1503, and a rigid base 1504. The insulation can be included inside the main bag body 1502.

A rigid or flexible handle 1503 is included on the cooler bag for easy removal of the cooler bag from the pocket of the cart / carry bag. The cooler bag can incorporate a rigid lid or a flexible lid flap 1501. Other methods of sealing the bag can include wrapping the bag material and tightening the rolled material together, as is found in many waterproof camping bags. The clamp mechanism 1513 can be equipped with a clasp, a plastic buckle, or any other suitable mechanism. The base 1504 of the cooler bag can include rigid plastic components to add durability. This reinforcing component for the base can be externally glued to the bottom of the cooling bag or secured inside the bottom of the cooling bag. The removable cooler bag can be made from a water resistant flexible plastic material. Handles, clamps, lids, and bases can be made from plastic or other suitable material.

The purpose of the cooler bag 1500 is to improve the convenience of transporting beverages and food in the golf bag while playing golf. Insulation has been added to the walls of the cooler bag and a complete seal keeps the beverage cool longer. The removable cooler bag allows easy packaging and cooling of beverages at home before reaching the golf course. The cooler bag also helps to isolate beverages and food from the rest of the golf bag and avoid dirt on the golf bag.

F. waterproof

Ｇ．サブアセンブリ The golf bags 10, 1010 may be waterproof. 40-46 show embodiments of golf bag 10 including waterproofing to reduce water penetration into one or more compartments of golf bag 10. For example, the pocket 18 can be made from a coated polyester material, more specifically a double coated polyester material. As an example, the coating for polyester can be a polyester _- polyurethane resin coating and / or a polyurethane resin coating. The coated polyester conveniently does not shrink in hot weather conditions (eg, above 90 degrees Fahrenheit). The pocket 18 is manufactured, coated and then attached to the flat portion 14 (eg, sewn, etc.). The pocket 18 can have a coupling edge 338 that gives the pocket 18 a shape. Further referring to FIGS. 44-45, when the pocket 18 is attached to the flat portion 14, the fixed point 330 (eg, seam, etc.) can be coated with a waterproof material. The pocket 18 can be selectively coupled to the flat portion 14 at the opposite edge of the fixation point 330 by a plurality of complementary fasteners 334a, 334b (eg, hook-and-loop fasteners, etc.). Fasteners 334a, 334b (shown in FIGS. 44-45) and / or the edges of the pockets 18 or seams 336 (shown in FIG. 46) where each pocket 18 connects to a flat portion 14, or zipper 340. , Or other access openings to each pocket 18 (shown in FIGS. 40-45) may be coated with a waterproof material. Waterproofing reduces the penetration of water or other liquids into the treated pocket 18 or part of the flat portion 14. This keeps the goods stored in the pocket 18 dry under adverse weather conditions or inadvertent exposure to water (eg, placing the golf bag 10 near the irrigation head). To assist. With reference to Table I, the waterproof golf bag 10 has an overall water storage of about 26% to 73% as compared to various commercially available waterproof golf bags, as described herein. It resulted in a significant reduction and a reduction in water detection in pocket 18 of about 6% to 44%.

G. Subassembly

Subassemblies 42, 1042 include bases 34, 1034, partition tops 30, 1030, partition sleeves 46, 1046, one or more stays 39, 1039, and one or more of flat portions 14, 1014. Can be prepared. Table II below shows the composition of various exemplary subassembly embodiments. The bases 34, 1034, partition tops 30, 1030, one or more stays 39, 1039, and flat portions 14, 1014 can each contain two or more parts, as described in detail below. I want to be understood. Thus, in Table I, including a component in a subassembly can represent including one or more pieces of said component. For example, the subassembly embodiment VI can include only the ring portion of the two-piece snap coupling base, along with the partition top, partition sleeve, and flat portion.

ＩＩ．キャリーゴルフバッグとキャリーバッグのサブアセンブリ Subassemblies 42, 1042 can include any combination of bases 34, 1034, partition tops 30, 1030, partition sleeves 46, 1046, one or more stays 39, 1039, and flat portions 14, 1014. .. Subassemblies 42, 1042 are not limited to the embodiments disclosed in Table II. Subassemblies 42, 1042 formed from the exchange of different components can provide advantages for certain embodiments of golf bags 10, 1010. For example, subassemblies 42,1042 having a base, stays, and partition tops (such as subassembly VII in Table II) can eliminate the step of inserting stays during the second manufacturing phase. However, subassemblies 42, 1042 with partition tops, bases, and flats (such as subassembly V) require the insertion of one or more stays, which partition the flats during the second manufacturing phase. Eliminate the need for riveting or otherwise fixing to the top or base. Thus, the components of the subassembly may be replaced or modified to complement a particular golf bag design or to meet manufacturing site (ie, available equipment) restrictions.

II. Carry golf bag and carry bag subassembly

The golf bag can be the carry bag 10. FIGS. 1-90, 94A-104, and 107-110 show features and embodiments of golf bags that can be associated with carry-type golf bags. The carry bag 10 can incorporate the above-mentioned components. In addition, the carry bag 10 may further include a stand assembly and one or more straps. The stand assembly allows the carry bag to be used in stowed or unfolded form. The term "retracted configuration" refers to a state in which the stand assembly is held (or retracted) relative to the flat portion of the carry bag (the retracted configuration is also referred to as the "first configuration"). The term "extended configuration" refers to the state in which the stand assembly is unfolded and supports the carry bag in a stable position (the extended configuration is also referred to as the "self-supporting form", the "tripod form", or the "second form". Called).

As described above, the carry bag 10 includes components of (1) base 34, (2) partition top 30, (3) partition sleeve 46, (4) stay 39, and (5) flat portion 14. Can be done. The carry bag 10 can further include a stand assembly 26 and one or more straps 24. As described above, the carry bag 10 may be formed from a subassembly 42 comprising one or more of a base 34, a partition top 30, a partition sleeve 46, a stay 39, and a flat portion 14. The stand assembly 26 is configured to be coupled to the subassembly 42. In some embodiments, the stand assembly 26 is configured to connect to the partition top 30 and the base 34. One or more straps 24 engage with a portion of the flat portion 14 and couple to the partition top 30.

FIG. 1A shows the carry bag 10 in an unfolded form. 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E show the carry bag 10 in a storage form without straps. The golf bag 10 includes a flat portion 14 or a flat portion that includes a plurality of pockets 18 for storing golf accessories (eg, golf balls, golf tees, golf gloves, rain gear and other clothing). The golf bag 10 also includes a plurality of handles 22 and a shoulder carry strap 24 that facilitate gripping and / or carrying of the bag 10. The stand assembly 26 is rotatably connected to the golf bag 10 at the partition top 30 by a leg mounting bracket 32 (shown in FIGS. 2 to 3). The partition top 30 includes an additional handle 33 to assist in carrying the golf bag 10. On the opposite side of the partition top 30, there is a base 34. In the illustrated deployment, the stand assembly 26 is unfolded and the flat portion 14 is tilted around the base 34 towards the stand assembly 26. This allows the bottom surface 38 of the base 34 to maintain contact with the surface on which the bag 10 is deployed, increasing the stability of the bag 10 while in tripod form.

2 and 3 show a golf bag 10 in a state where the flat portion 14 is removed. Referring to FIG. 2, the stay 39 extends from the partition top 30 to the base 34. The stand assembly 26 is provided on the side of the bag 10 opposite to the stay 39. The stand assembly 26 includes a pair of legs 40a, 40b rotatably connected to the leg mounting bracket 32. The spring 41 is coupled to the base 34. The spring 41 includes spring members 41a and 41b. The spring members 41a and 41b extend from the base 34 and connect to the respective legs 40a and 40b. In some embodiments, the spring members 41a, 41b are connected to the respective legs 40a, 40b via brackets such as the bracket 600, which will be described below with reference to FIGS. 74 and 75.

2 and 3 also show the internal subassembly 42 according to the first embodiment. The subassembly 42 includes a partition top 30 and a base 34. Further, the partition sleeve 46 is coupled to the partition top 30 and extends away from the partition top 30 toward the base 34. The partition sleeve 46 has a substantially box-like shape, but in other embodiments it may have any suitable or desired shape. Referring to FIG. 4, when the bag 10 is in the retracted form (ie, when the stand assembly 26 is retracted as shown in FIG. 3), the partition sleeve 46 does not fully extend to the base 34. The end or bottom edge 47 of the partition sleeve 46 is spaced from the top lip or edge 48 of the base 34. A plurality of connecting members 50 are connected to the partition sleeve 46. More specifically, the plurality of connecting members 50 are connected adjacent to the end 47 of the partition sleeve 46 closest to the base 34. The connecting member 50 connects the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34. When the partition sleeve 46 is coupled to the base 34, a gap or opening or opening has a first distance D1 that varies around the perimeter of the partition sleeve 46 defined by the end 47, as shown in FIG. There is a space 54. Each of the plurality of gaps 54 is roughly defined by a partition sleeve 46 (or edge 47 thereof), two adjacent connecting members 50, and a base 34 (or top lip 48 thereof).

A. Carry bag: Stand assembly storage and deployment

At the time of use, the carry bag 10 typically begins to be used in a storage form in which the stand assembly 26 is housed. As shown in FIG. 11, in the storage mode, the stay 39 has a first length, that is, a distance L1, and extends between the partition top 30 and the base 34. The partition sleeve 46 extends from the partition top 30 by a second length, that is, a distance L2, and the second length L2 of the partition sleeve 46 is generally larger than the first length L1 of the stay 39. short. Also, the connecting member 50 is generally tense or barely loose between the partition sleeve 46 and the base 34. In this storage configuration, the gap 54 between the divider sleeve 46 and the base 34 provides ample space or space between the divider sleeve 46 and the base 34, allowing the golfer to play one or more golf clubs from the golf bag 10. Can be freely inserted and removed.

The golfer typically shifts the golf bag 10 from the stowed form (first form) to the unfolded form (second form) and unfolds the stand assembly 26 when the golf bag 10 is set down. The golfer arranges the base 34 on the support surface with the bottom surface 38 placed on the support surface. The golfer then applies a downward force to the partition top 30. By applying a downward force, the spring 41 swivels around the base 34 and pushes the legs 40a, 40b away from the bag 10. At the same time, the stay 39 tilts around the subassembly of the base 34 towards the stand assembly 26. It also tilts the subassembly 42 towards the stand assembly 26, as shown in FIG. While the stay 39 is tilted around the base 34, the stay 39 maintains a constant distance L1 between the partition top 30 and the base 34 in both stowed and unfolded forms, while the partition sleeve 46 It should be understood that the unfolded form moves closer to the base 34 than the stowed form.

Entering the unfolded form in which the stand assembly 26 is arranged, the subassembly 42 reduces the cohesion and focusing of the split sleeve 46 near the base 34 and improves the golf club access from the golf bag 10 to the golf bag 10. Improve the golfer's experience in favor of. Referring to FIG. 12, the gaps 54 between the partition sleeve 46 and the base 34 are each reduced to a second non-zero distance D2, which is smaller than the first distance D1. The gap 54 provides sufficient clearance for the partition sleeve 46 to swivel around the base 34 between the stowed form (FIGS. 3 and 11) and the deployed form (FIGS. 2 and 12). The gap 54, on the other hand, limits the surplus material that can result in unwanted focusing or cohesion of the partition sleeve 46 near the base 34.

B. Carry bag: Snap fit function

Here, with reference to FIGS. 13-29, aspects of the snap-fit subassembly are disclosed in more detail. 13 to 20 show the components of the snap-fit stand assembly 26 (shown in FIGS. 2 to 3). It should be understood that the following snap-fit features may or may not be partially or completely included in the various embodiments of the carry bag. The snap-fit connections incorporated into the carry bag 10 can include press-fit connections, male or female snap-fit buttons, or other snap-fit connections as defined above. Some components of the carry bag include snap-fit connections. The snap-fit connection comprises an angled overhang that engages the opening by sliding and snap-fitting into the opening. Other components include snap-fit connections with slots or grooves that engage one or more protrusions. Some components with snap-fit connections further include interlocks and / or contact surfaces to provide support and alignment for the connection.

1. 1. Carry bag: Snap-fit leg mounting bracket

The carry bag 10 can include a leg mounting bracket. The leg mounting bracket can be a snap-fit leg mounting bracket. As shown in FIG. 13, in one embodiment, the partition top 30 of the carry bag 10 may be formed with a plurality of openings 106 penetrating the outer ring 74 to accommodate the snap-fit leg mounting bracket 32. it can. The outer ring 74 also includes a plurality of matching slots 110 provided on the first edge 112 and a rim 114 provided on the opposite edge of the first edge 112, preferably extending around the ring 74. ,including.

As shown in FIGS. 13-15, the leg mounting bracket 32 includes a plurality of leg anchors 122 and a mounting portion or channel 126 (shown in FIG. 14). The mounting channel 126 is defined by the front 130 and the rear 134 of the bracket 32. A plurality of snaps or snap members or holding members 138 project from the front 130 and the rear 134 into the channel 126. Channel 126 also includes a plurality of alignment ribs (not shown) that facilitate alignment between the leg mounting bracket 32 and the outer ring 74 of the partition top 30. In the illustrated embodiment, a total of five snaps 138 are shown, two protruding from the front 130 and three protruding from the rear 134. In other embodiments, any preferred number of snaps 138 can be used, which snaps 138 into channel 126 from front 130 only, rear 134 only, or any suitable combination of front 130 and rear 134. Can protrude.

The leg mounting bracket 32 generally has an arched or curved curvature angle (shown in FIG. 14). The leg mounting bracket 32 is complementary to the outer ring 74 of the partition top 30 and facilitates a snap-fit connection of the leg mounting bracket 32 to the partition top 30. The leg mounting bracket 32 can have a linear shape complementary to the outer ring of the partition top 30. To form a snap-fit connection, the leg mounting bracket 32 is arranged to accept the first edge 112 of the outer ring 74 into the mounting channel 126. The leg mounting bracket 32 is adjusted around the outer ring 74 until the matching ribs (not shown) of the leg mounting bracket 32 are accepted by the respective matching slots 110. Once accepted, the leg mounting bracket 32 accepts the outer ring 74 and each snap 138 engages (or is accepted) with the respective opening 106 of the outer ring 74 to form a snap-fit connection. The rim 114 prevents over-insertion of the outer ring 74 into the leg-mounting bracket 32 while providing additional structural support for the leg-mounting bracket 32 during operation of the golf bag 10.

It is understood that in other embodiments, the orientation of the leg mounting bracket 32 with respect to the partition top 30 is not limited to engagement from below the partition top 30, and engagement from any other direction may be appropriate. I want to be. In addition, the snap-fit connection, shown as the engagement of the snap 138 with the opening 106, counteracts and supports the force from the stand assembly 26 and locks the leg mounting bracket 32 to the partition top 30 to ensure Any other suitable mechanical connection can be made to form a structural connection.

16 to 17 show alternative embodiments of the partition top 1030 having the leg mounting bracket 32a. In this embodiment, the leg mounting bracket 32a is engaged with the partition top 1030 by a snap fit (or press fit) connection. In this embodiment, a trough or channel 142 is provided at the rear 134. The trough 142 is provided so as to fit around the lateral member 78 that defines the partition compartment on the partition top 1030 (or intermediate member 80 as shown in FIG. 8). The trough 142 also serves as an additional alignment aid to properly align the leg mounting bracket 32a with the partition top 1030 for snap-fit connections (as disclosed in connection with the leg mounting bracket 32). , Can function. FIG. 18 shows an additional alternative embodiment of the partition top 30b having four openings 106 for engaging one embodiment of the leg mounting brackets 32, 32a.

2. Carry bag: Troughed leg mounting bracket

Some embodiments of the carry bag 10 include alternative embodiments of the snap-fit mounting bracket 432. 101A-104 show leg mounting brackets 432 with troughs or channels 436a, 436b along each leg anchor 422a, 422b. Each leg anchor 422a, 422b is for receiving the bag flat portion 414 similar to the bag flat portion 14. Troughs 436a and 436b on the leg anchors 422a, 442b help align and secure the bag flats 414 to the partition top 430. As shown in FIGS. 101A and 101B, the leg mounting bracket 432 includes a mounting portion 434 and a plurality of leg anchors 422a and 422b. However, this embodiment of the leg mounting bracket 432 does not include a channel such as channel 126 in FIG. 414 for engaging with a partition top or snap connector. Rather, the leg mounting bracket 432 can be secured to the partition top 430 via rivets 476, adhesive, or other fastening mechanism. The leg mounting bracket 432 is mounted on the outer surface of the outer ring 474 of the partition top 430. The mounting portion 434 of the leg mounting bracket 432 generally has an arcuate or curved curvature angle and is complementary to the outer ring 474 of the partition top 430. The curvature of the mounting portion 434 allows the leg mounting bracket 432 to engage the partition top 430. As shown in FIG. 102, in some embodiments, the leg mounting bracket 432 is formed integrally with the partition top 430.

In some embodiments, the leg mounting bracket 432 is mounted on the flat portion 414, as shown in FIGS. 103-104. FIG. 103 shows how the partition top 430 can be inserted into the flat portion 414. FIG. 104 shows the partition top 430 engaged with the bag flat portion 414. The partition top 430 can be riveted to the flat portion 414 under the handle on the back surface 12 of the carry bag 10. At the front portion 11 of the carry bag 10, the flat portion 414 is lifted by engagement with the leg anchors 422a and 422b of the partition top 430.

The bag flat portion 414 that engages the leg mounting bracket 432 includes two windows 428a, 428b that allow the leg anchors 422a, 422b to extend through the bag flat portion 414. The windows 428a and 428b are surrounded by connecting edges 429a and 429b, respectively. The coupling edges 429a and 429b fit into the troughs 436a and 436b of the leg mounting bracket 432 and hold the flat portion 414 in a desired position with respect to the partition top 430. The leg anchors 422a and 422b hold the flat portion 414 at the front side (or ventral side) 11 of the bag to the partition top 430, so that the flat portion 414 is fixed to the front side 11 of the bag (rivet or VELCRO). Other fixing mechanisms (such as self-fixing connectors such as (registered trademark)) are no longer needed. By eliminating the need to rivet or otherwise secure the flat portion 414 to the partition top 430, the assembly process and the required manufacturing equipment are reduced. Therefore, the assembly time and the overhead of the manufacturing process can be reduced. In addition, the leg mounting bracket 432 with troughs 436a and 436b provides a much cleaner finish as compared to embodiments previously using Velcro®.

The leg mounting bracket 432 further improves the quality of the final product by preventing the bag flat portion 414 from slipping off the partition top 430. In some golf bags, the flat portion is fixed to the partition top via a hook-and-loop fastener (such as VELCRO®). These embodiments have the advantage of eliminating riveting. However, the flats of these golf bags may sag below the level above the partition top designed to engage the flats. Misaligned flats can cause problems such as tightening or obstruction of straps that extend through both flat and partition top openings. By providing the windows 428a and 428b on the flat portion 414, the windows 428a and 428b engage with the troughs 436a and 436b of the leg mounting bracket 432, which can cause some inconsistency problems in the flat portion of the bag. Is excluded. In some embodiments, the flat portion 414 is riveted onto the partition top 430 on the opposite side of the leg mounting bracket 432. The rivet supports the flat portion 414 on the side not held by the windows 428a, 428b and the leg mounting bracket 432. In other embodiments, snap-fit connections can be used to support the flat portion 414 on the side not held by the windows 428a, 428b and the leg mounting bracket 432.

After assembling the bag flat portion 414 and the leg mounting bracket 432, the leg anchors 422a and 422b are exposed, but the mounting portion 434 is hidden under the flat portion 414. In addition to fixing the bag flat portion 414 to the golf bag 10 in the correct position, by hiding the mounting portion 434 of the bracket 432 under the flat portion 414, the aesthetics of the golf bag 10 look more unified and seamless. Can be done.

3. 3. Carry bag: Material of leg mounting bracket

The leg mounting brackets 32 and 432 act as hinge points between the leg 40 and the bag portion and are therefore preferably made of glass-filled nylon for strength. As mentioned above, the partition tops 30, 430 typically include a flexible and lightweight material. In one embodiment, snap-fit connections allow the components to act as integrated components while maintaining the material properties of the partition top 34 and the leg mounting bracket 32, respectively. By separately providing the partition tops 30, 430 and leg mounting brackets 32 and 432 and forming them from different materials, each component can be adjusted to have certain desired material properties. For example, the partition tops 30, 430 can include a material that is lighter in weight than the bracket material, resulting in a savings in the weight of the entire carry bag 10. For example, the leg mounting brackets 32, 432 can be made of a material stronger than the material of the partition tops 30, 430, resulting in a durable connection for the leg 40. Having the partition top 430 and the leg mounting bracket 432 as separate components allows different materials to be selected for each component, depending on the desired material properties. However, by integrally forming the partition tops 30, 430 and the leg mounting brackets 32, 432, the manufacturing process can be simplified, the required assembly process can be reduced, and the quality can be improved. The integrally formed partition tops 30, 430 and brackets 32, 432 include lightweight and tough materials such as glass filled polymers or fiber reinforced polymers.

Both integrally formed embodiments of divider tops 30, 430 and leg mounting brackets 32, 432 and embodiments of separate components can be utilized based on carry bag design parameters and cost limits. Has advantages. For example, the weight of the material can be important for a Sunday carry bag, as the bag is intended to be lightweight and simple. For this type of carry bag, an integrally formed partition top made of high quality, low density material is preferred over separate partition tops and mounting brackets, despite the additional cost of high strength materials. is there.

4. Carry bag: Leg connection

The stand assembly 26 of the carry bag 10 may include a leg 40 connected to a leg mounting bracket 32. As described above, the leg mounting bracket 32 can be engaged or integrated with the partition top 30. The leg 40 can be connected to the leg mounting bracket 32 via a leg connecting mechanism such as a leg end cap that receives the leg 40 and rotates with respect to the leg mounting bracket. Various snap-fit leg connection mechanisms include components that slide to press fit, lock (or snap) into the corresponding slot, opening, or groove of the corresponding feature. can do. In some embodiments, the leg connection mechanism may be designed to have features that allow self-assembly by the recipient, as described below.

19-20 show snap-fit connections between each leg 40 and the leg mounting bracket 32. With reference to FIG. 19, the end cap 146 includes a leg connection end 150 that connects to the leg 40 by permanent attachment, for example adhesive or mechanical connection. The end cap 146 also includes a plurality of opposing protrusions 154. As shown in FIG. 20, each protrusion 154 is received in each slot 158 of the leg anchor 122 and has a snap-fit connection between the end cap 146 (and each associated leg 40) and the leg mounting bracket 32. To form. In addition, the engagement of the protrusion 154 with the slot 158 allows each associated leg 40 to swivel with respect to each leg anchor 122 around a swivel axis extending through the opposing protrusion 154. To. In particular, this allows the leg 40 to swivel between the retracted form and the deployed tripod form. In other embodiments, slot 158 is in an opening or any other suitable connection that provides both snap-fit retention and swivel connection between each leg 40 and leg mounting bracket 32 / partition top 30. , May be replaced.

5. Carry bag: Alternative embodiment of leg connection (self-assembly)

In the carry bag, the leg connection between the leg mounting bracket and the set of legs can be designed to be easily snapped or locked into the assembled mode without the use of tools. 61-67 show the leg self-assembly system 502 which is part of the stand assembly. With reference to FIG. 61, the system 502 includes end caps 528a, 528b connected to the legs 40a, 40b, respectively. Each end cap 528 includes an opening or pin opening 532 configured to receive the pin 516. As shown in FIG. 62, each pin 516 includes an end or portion having a surface texture or roughness 536 to assist in gripping the pin 516 during removal and / or installation. Also, the portion having the surface texture 536 can have a larger cross-sectional diameter than the rest of the pin 516 to prevent over-insertion during mounting. Each pin 516 can also include a circumferential groove 538. The groove 538 optionally accepts or engages a protrusion or member (not shown) of the end cap 528 or mounting bracket 32 (shown in FIG. 66) to provide an indication of proper insertion, and / Alternatively, it can assist in holding the pin 516 after self-assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, each pin 516 is placed within the end caps 528a and 528b either in transit or when the leg self-assembling system 502 is removed from the box 404. In other embodiments, the pins 516 may be stored or housed in a box in any suitable manner (eg, housed in a boxed packaging such as a sealed plastic bag). Figures 57-58 show the self-assembly kit 400, along with the box 404 and the leg self-assembly system 502. The leg self-assembling system 502, together with the assembly kit 400, is arranged to fit into the box 404.

FIG. 63 shows the alignment aid 512 connected to the legs 40a and 40b. When the alignment aid 512 is attached to the legs 40a, b, the legs 40a, b are spaced apart from each other in order to facilitate engagement with the attachment bracket 32 (shown in FIG. 66). It has a length L ₁ which spaced. After attaching the legs 40a and 40b to the mounting bracket 32, the alignment assisting tool 512 is removed from the legs 40a and 40b. In order to inform the recipient of the planned removal after installation, the alignment aid 512 may provide a second sign or instruction manual 540 instructing the recipient to remove the alignment aid 512 after self-assembly. Can include. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment aid 512 is made of paper or cardboard and is detachably attached to the legs 40a, 40b by adhesive tape. In another embodiment, the alignment aid 512 consists of any suitable structure or any suitable material formed to facilitate alignment of the legs 40a, b with the mounting bracket 32, any suitable. It can be structured or formed. For example, FIGS. 64-65 show alternative embodiments of the alignment aid 512a. The alignment aid 512a includes a pair of arched leg support paths 544 that carry each leg 40 (eg, legs 40a, b) by interference or frictional fit. The alignment aid 512a can also include one or more pin support channels or protrusions 548, each holding its own pin 516. The alignment aid 512a forms a snap-fit connection with the leg 40 and pin 516, facilitating organized storage of the leg 40 and pin 516 during shipment, and the leg during (and post-assembly) assembly. The portion 40 and the pin 516 are easily removed. The alignment aid 512a shown is made of plastic, but in other embodiments it may be made of any suitable material.

Next, referring to FIG. 66, an alignment aid 512 is shown while assembling the legs 40a, 40b to the mounting bracket 32 on the partition top 30. The mounting bracket 32 defines mounting channels 552a, 552b configured to receive the corresponding legs 40a, 40b by end caps 528a, 528b. The length L ₁ (shown in FIG. 63) of the alignment aid 512 is such that the distance between the end caps 528a and 528b matches the distance between the mounting channels 552a and 552b. This allows the recipient to easily and easily align the end caps 528a and 528b and insert them into the mounting channels 552a, 552b.

Each channel 552a, 552b also includes openings (not shown) facing both sides of the channels 552a, 552b. When the end caps 528a and 528b are received by the respective channels 552a and 552b, the opposing openings are aligned with the pin openings 532 (shown in FIG. 61) through the respective end caps 528a and 528b. When in alignment, the pins 516 can be inserted by the recipient to connect and hold the legs 40a, 40b to the mounting bracket 32. The alignment aid 512 aligns the opposing openings (not shown) with the pin openings 532 (shown in FIG. 61) to help the recipient facilitate the insertion of the pins 516. In addition to connecting the legs 40a, 40b to the mounting bracket 32, each pin 516 defines a swivel axis in which the legs 40a, 40b swivel with respect to the mounting bracket 32 (eg, the stand assembly 26 is housed). To facilitate the rotation of the legs 40a, 40b between the first form and the second form in which the stand assembly 26 is deployed).

After assembling the legs 40a, 40b to the mounting bracket 32, the recipient can mount the strap 556 around a portion of the spring 41. As shown in FIG. 67, the strap or gravity strap 556 is attached to the flat portion 14 of the golf bag 10 and includes a latch assembly or buckle 560 to facilitate self-attachment of the strap 556. The length of the strap 556 can be adjusted according to the user's preference. By extending the strap 556 around the spring 41, the strap 556 is legged by the spring 41 when the golf bag 10 is carried by the user (eg, when the user is carrying the golf bag 10 by the shoulder strap 24). Helps restrain the portions 40a, 40b. This restraint helps limit the legs 40a, 40b from hanging from or deploying away from the golf bag 10 (ie, the restraint first sets the legs 40a, 40b when the golf bag 10 is carried. Helps maintain the storage form).

In other embodiments of the stand assembly, similar to mounting brackets 32 with legs 40a, 40b, springs 41, mounting channels 552a, 552b, and end caps 528a, 528b, and pins 516 of the leg self-assembly system 502. The stand assembly can include the components. The stand assembly eliminates self-assembling features such as the alignment aid 512. This saves material and at the same time retains sufficient components for the leg assembly used by the assembler to build the carry bag.

6. Carry bag: A second alternative leg connection embodiment

Another embodiment of leg connection can include a pair of leg end caps having protrusions (ears) aligned with the corresponding leg mounting brackets. 88-90 show embodiments of the end cap 646 and the mounting bracket 632. With reference to FIG. 88, the end cap 646 is similar to the end cap 146. The end cap 646 includes a leg connection end 650 that connects to the leg 40 by permanent mounting. The end cap 646 also includes a plurality of opposing protrusions 654, similar to the end cap 146, except that the protrusion 654 includes an opening 655 extending through the center of the protrusion 654. The protrusion slides in the groove 656 of the leg mounting bracket 632. This helps align the end cap 646 with the leg mounting bracket 632. Alignment of the end cap 646 with the leg mounting bracket 632 allows the opening 655 of the end cap 646 to align with the slot 658 of the leg mounting bracket 632, allowing the insertion of pins or shafts for rotation. Assure. In some embodiments, the protrusion 654 projects outward from the end cap 646 up to 0.05 inches. In another embodiment, the protrusion 654 is 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.07, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07, It can project 08, 0.09, or 0.10 inches. In addition, in some embodiments, the protrusions 654 can be round and have a diameter of 0.24 to 0.28 inches. In other embodiments, the protrusion 654 can have a diameter of 0.24 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, 0.27 inches, or 0.28 inches.

Referring to FIG. 89, the mounting bracket 632 is similar to the mounting bracket 32, except that slot 658 of the mounting bracket 632 does not extend all the way to the bottom of the mounting bracket 632. Instead, the slot 658 of the mounting bracket 632 is configured to be the same size as the opening 655 of the end cap 646. In some embodiments, the opening 655 of the end cap 646 and the slot 658 of the mounting bracket 632 can have a diameter between 0.15 and 0.25 inches. In other embodiments, the openings 655 and slots 658 are 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.2, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0. It can have a diameter of .24, or 0.25 inches. In many embodiments, slot 658 can have a diameter 0.01 inch larger than the diameter of opening 655. The mounting bracket 632 is also configured to accept the protrusion 654 of the end cap 646 and guide the end cap 646 to a position where the opening 655 of the end cap 646 is aligned with the slot 658 of the mounting bracket 632. Includes a configured groove 656. With reference to FIG. 90, the end cap 646 and the mounting bracket 632 are shown in assembled positions. Pins (not shown) are screwed or positioned through openings 655 and slots 658 on one side of the assembly and extend through openings 655 and slots 658 on the other side of the assembly, with legs 40. And the end cap 646 can be locked to the mounting bracket 632. Further, the engagement of the pin with the slot 158 and the opening 655 allows each associated leg 40 to swivel with respect to its respective mounting bracket 632 around a swivel axis extending through the center of the pin. In particular, this allows the legs 40 to swivel between the stowed and unfolded forms.

7. Carry bag: A third alternative embodiment of leg connection

Yet another embodiment of the leg connection can include a multi-part end cap. This leg connection embodiment allows one component (or component) of the leg end cap to be rotatably connected to the leg mounting bracket first. The second component (or component) is first secured to the legs of the stand assembly. The leg can be quickly engaged (snap-fitted) with the leg mounting bracket by pushing the second component into the first component. This assembly process is quick, does not require tools, and does not require skilled labor.

Here, with reference to FIGS. 68-72, another alternative embodiment of the end cap 528 for use with the leg self-assembly system 502 is shown. In this embodiment, the end cap 528 is a multi-part end cap 564 interconnected by snap fit. By using the end cap 564, the leg self-assembling system 502 eliminates the need for pins 516.

FIGS. 68-72 show an embodiment of the multi-part end cap 564. The end cap 564 includes a first part or first portion 568 and a second part or second portion 572. When used in the leg automatic assembly system 502, the first component 568 is, for example, a swivel shaft that allows the leg 40 to extend between the first configuration and the second configuration. Are pre-mounted to the mounting bracket 32 by the opposing openings 576a, b that define. The second component 572 is pre-attached to each leg 40. For example, each leg 40 can receive a protrusion 580 extending from a second component 572. In addition, each leg 40 can be partially accepted by a recess 584 defined by a second component 572. The protrusion 580 is shown as having a cross-sectional shape of a cross or a plus sign, but in other embodiments, the protrusion 580 has any suitable shape to facilitate engagement with the leg 40. Can have. Further, the illustrated embodiment of the second part 572 shows friction or tight fit with the leg 40. However, any suitable connection or engagement sufficient to hold each leg 40 to each second component 572 can be used.

To attach each leg 40 to the mounting bracket 32 during self-assembly, the recipient connects the second part 572 to the first part 568. For ease of connection, the multi-part end cap 564 includes a snap-fit assembly 584 (shown in FIG. 69). In the illustrated embodiment, the second part 572 is sized to engage and hold the associated detent 592 disposed within the first part 568 (shown in FIGS. 70-71). Includes at least one flexible catch 588 (shown in FIGS. 69-70). When the first part 568 and the second part 572 are attached by the snap-fit assembly 584, the leg 40 is attached to the attachment bracket 32 (see FIG. 72).

8. Carry bag: Bracket for leg spring

In addition to the leg mounting brackets, leg connecting mechanism, and legs, the stand assembly 26 of the carry bag 10 may further include a spring 41 that engages the base 34 and the legs 40. The bracket connects the spring 41 to the leg 40. The spring 41 assists in the deployment and storage of the legs when the carry bag 10 is transitioned between the deployment and storage modes.

FIGS. 73 to 75 show an example of an embodiment of a bracket 600 (also referred to as a spring-to-leg bracket) for attaching the spring 41 to the legs 40a and 40b. The bracket 600 includes a leg receiving channel 604 configured to receive the legs 40a or 40b, facilitating mounting of the bracket 600 on the legs 40a, 40b, respectively. The bracket 600 also includes a spring receiving channel 608 configured to receive a portion of the spring 41, which attaches the spring 41 to each leg 40a, 40b. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring receiving channel 608 is offset from the leg receiving channel 604 and is arranged approximately vertically. The bracket 600 includes a bow or bumper 612 on the outer surface of the bracket 600. As shown in FIG. 36, the bumper 612 separates the legs 40a and 40b from the spring 41. More specifically, the legs 40a, 40b are offset from the spring 41 and the flat portion 14 (not shown in FIG. 73, but shown in FIG. 1). By arranging the legs 40a, 40b offset from the spring 41 by the bumper 612 on each bracket 600, the legs 40a, 40b are springed while the legs 40a, 40b expand from the retracted form to the unfolded form. Does not get entangled with 41.

C. Carry bag: Flat part

As described above, the carry bag 10 can be provided with a flat portion. Some modifications of the flat portion 14 peculiar to the carry bag 10 will be described below.

1. 1. Carry bag: Inflatable hip pads and inflatable shoulder pads

With reference to FIGS. 85 and 86, the flat portion 14 may also include an inflatable hip pad 250. The inflatable hip pad 250 can be placed along any portion of the flat portion 14 on which the bag can rest on the user's back or hips. The flat portion 14 may include a pocket 1020 configured to accommodate the inflatable hip pad 250. In many embodiments, the inflatable hip pad 250 and the flat portion 14 can be permanently joined by suturing, welding, or any other suitable permanent joining method. In another embodiment, the inflatable hip pad 250 can be inserted into the pocket 1020. Pockets can be sealed by means of zippers, snap-fit mechanisms, hook-and-loop fasteners, or any other suitable sealing method. The inflatable hip pad 250 further includes a nozzle 252 that allows the user to contract or inflate the inflatable hip pad 250 with air. The pocket 1020 can be configured so that the nozzle 252 can be accessed by the user from the outside of the flat portion 14. The nozzle 252 can be arranged so as not to come into contact with the user's back or waist when carrying the bag 10.

The inflatable hip pad 250 can include an inner inflatable compartment housed by an outer shell. The inner inflatable compartment may be a single large compartment. Alternatively, the inner inflatable compartment may include a plurality of openings extending through the inflatable hip pad 250 to create a series of compartmentalized inflatable compartments. The inflatable hip pad 250 further comprises a nozzle 252. In many embodiments, the nozzle 252 is a twist lock nozzle. In other embodiments, the nozzle 252 can be of any type of nozzle. For example, the nozzle 252 can be a spring load nozzle, a capped nozzle, a push-pull nozzle, or any other suitable expansion valve. In the illustrated embodiment, with reference to FIG. 86, the nozzle 252 can be welded to the seam of the inflatable hip pad 250. In another embodiment, the nozzle 252 can be welded to the outer surface of the inflatable hip pad 250.

The inflatable hip pad 250 allows the user to inflate the hip pad 250 to the desired amount of cushion, in contrast to the hip pad which has a predetermined amount of filler specified during the manufacturing process. In addition, the hip pad 250 is inflated with air so that it does not flatten or compress over time like traditional foam hip pads. In addition, by using air as the filler material for the inflatable hip pad 250, it can be made lighter than conventional hip pads that contain foam or other higher density material as the filler. This saves the weight of the entire golf bag.

In some embodiments, reference to FIG. 87, inflatable shoulder pads can be included in the shoulder strap 24. The inflatable shoulder pads are similar to the inflatable hip pads 250, except that the size is adjusted to fit within the shoulder strap 24. Like the inflatable hip pad 250, the inflatable shoulder pad 260 comprises a nozzle similar to the nozzle 252. The nozzle can be configured to fit through the shoulder strap 24 for easy user access. The nozzles are placed on the shoulder straps 24 so that they do not touch the user's shoulders. Inflatable shoulder pads 260 may include inflatable pockets as well as inflatable pockets 254 for inflatable hip pads 250. In some embodiments, the inflatable pockets for the inflatable shoulder pads 260 are more elongated than the inflatable pockets 254 of the hip pads.

2. Carry bag: Detachable strap connection

Many types of buckles, clips, or connections can be used to connect the straps to carry the bag. Some straps 24 are permanently attached to the carry bag 10 for simple design, aesthetic purposes, and durability. The other strap 24 is detachably attached to the carry bag 10 to allow customization, strap configuration changes, and simplification of manufacturing. The carry bag 10 may include a removable strap connection mechanism for fixing or releasing the strap from the carry bag 10. The removable strap connection mechanism described below retains some of the benefits of a permanently attached strap while allowing easy and non-destructive strap removal. The removable strap connection mechanism 350 shown in FIGS. 145A-148 (1) holds the strap at a predetermined angle, (2) supports a wide strap, and (3) provides an offset distance between the bag and the strap. It can be minimized and (4) can support a considerable weight. The minimized offset distance gives the connection mechanism a thin structure that can further improve the aesthetics of the bag.

As shown in FIG. 145A, the removable strap connection mechanism 350 includes a receiving portion 360 and a core portion 380. The receiving portion 360 slides over the core portion 380 and is snapped into place via the locking mechanism of the receiving portion 360 and the core portion 380. Typically, the receiving portion 360 is connected to the strap 354 of the golf bag 10 and the core portion 380 is connected to the body of the golf bag 10. The strap connection mechanism 350 allows the strap 354 to maintain its orientation with respect to the golf bag 10 when the golfer removes the strap 354. The strap connection mechanism 350 can hold the end of the strap 354 at a predetermined angle from the back surface 12 of the golf bag 10. In addition, the strap connection mechanism 350 makes it possible to secure the wide strap 354 to the golf bag 10 so as to prevent unwanted twisting of the strap 354. The strap connection mechanism 350 further provides a thin, unobtrusive, aesthetically clean means of attaching the strap 354 to the golf bag body. Finally, the strap connection mechanism 354 can withstand loads of 15-70 lbs and is useful in high load bearing applications.

It should be understood that the following description is directed to the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 145A-148, but includes other embodiments of the present invention. The removable strap connection mechanism 350 for the carry bag 10 includes a receiving portion 360 connected to the strap 354 and a core portion 380 connected to a bag body portion such as a flat portion 14 or a partition top 30. The receiving portion 360 includes a strap mounting tab 365, a first bow arm 366 extending from the strap mounting tab 365, a second bow arm 367 extending from the strap mounting tab 365, and first and second bow arms 366, 376. Includes channels 364 formed between. The core portion 380 includes a bag mounting tab 385 and a core 384 extending from the bag mounting tab 385. The strap mounting tab 365 of the receiving portion 360 engages with the strap 354 of the carry bag 10. The bag mounting tab 385 of the core portion 380 is connected to the main body of the carry bag 10. However, in other embodiments, the receiving portion 360 is connected to the body and the core portion 380 is connected to the strap 354.

The first and second bow-shaped arms 366, 376 of the receiving portion 360 are formed integrally with the strap mounting tab 365. The first and second bow-shaped arms 366 and 376 together form part of a nearly cylindrical channel 364 with an inner diameter of 370 and an outer diameter of 371. The inner diameter 370 can be in the range of 0.10 to 0.45 inches. For example, the inner diameter 370 is 0.10 to 0.15 inch, 0.15 to 0.25 inch, 0.25 to 0.25 inch, 0.25 to 0.30 inch, 0.30 to 0.35 inch. , 0.35 to 0.40 inches, or 0.40 to 0.45 inches. The outer diameter 371 can be in the range of 0.25 to 0.55 inches. For example, the outer diameter 371 is 0.25 to 0.25 inches, 0.25 to 0.30 inches, 0.30 to 0.35 inches, 0.35 to 0.40 inches, 0.40 to 0.45. It can range from inches, 0.45 to 0.50 inches, or 0.50 to 0.55 inches.

The first and second bow-shaped arms 366, 376 can include thicknesses in the range 0.10 to 0.25 inches or 0.15 to 0.25 inches. The receiving portion 360 further comprises an opening 368 located on the opposite side of the strap mounting tab 365, located between the end of the first bow arm 366 and the end of the second bow arm 367. As seen in FIG. 146, the receiving portion 360 further comprises a first side surface 361 and a second side surface 362. The first and second bow-shaped arms 366, 376 extend between the first side surface 361 and the second side surface 362. The receiving portion 360 further comprises an end wall on the second side surface 362 of the receiving portion 360. The end wall connects the first and second bow-shaped arms 366, 376 and acts like a stopper at one end of the channel 364. The first side surface 361 of the receiving portion channel 364 opposite the end wall comprises an opening 369 for receiving the core 384 of the core portion 380.

The receiving portion 360 comprises a width 356 defined between the first side surface 361 and the second side surface 362 of the receiving portion 360 (ie, parallel to the channel 364). The width 356 of the receiving portion 360 can range from 0.5 to 4.0 inches. For example, the width 356 of the receiving portion 360 is 0.5-1.6 inches, 1.2-1.8 inches, 1.4-2.0 inches, 1.6-2.2 inches, 1.8-. 2.4 inches, 2.0 to 2.6 inches, 2.2 to 2.8 inches, 2.4 to 3.0 inches, 2.6 to 3.2 inches, 2.8 to 3.4 inches, Alternatively, it can be in the range of 3.0 to 3 inches.

The receiving portion 360 further comprises a locking mechanism (not shown). The locking mechanism may include a groove or protrusion corresponding to each locking mechanism (eg, corresponding protrusion or groove) of the core portion 380. The locking mechanism of the receiving portion can be placed at any suitable position along the width 356 of the receiving portion 360. The locking mechanism of the receiving portion 360 can be arranged on the inner surface of the first and second bow-shaped arms 366, 376. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a button release tab rather than a protrusion or groove.

The core portion 380 is integrally formed with the bag mounting tab 385. The core 384 of the core portion 380 includes a substantially cylindrical shape having a core diameter of 390. The core diameter 390 can range from 0.10 to 0.45 inches. For example, the core diameter 390 is 0.10 to 0.15 inch, 0.15 to 0.25 inch, 0.25 to 0.25 inch, 0.25 to 0.30 inch, 0.30 to 0.35. It can range from inches, 0.35 to 0.40 inches, or 0.40 to 0.45 inches. The core 384 further comprises a first end 381 and a second end 382. The core portion 380 further comprises a locking function (not shown) that engages with the locking function of the receiving portion 360 when the core 384 is inserted into channel 364 of the receiving portion 360. The core partial locking mechanism is arranged on the outer surface of the core 384. In the embodiment in which the receiving partial locking mechanism is a groove, the protrusion may be large enough to engage the core partial locking mechanism with the groove. In the embodiment in which the receiving partial locking mechanism is a protrusion, the groove can be sized so that the core partial locking mechanism receives the protrusion. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the locking mechanism may include a button release tab rather than a protrusion or groove.

The width 357 of the core portion 380 is defined between the first end 381 and the second end 382 of the core 384. The width 357 of the core 384 can range from 1.0 to 3.0 inches. For example, the width 357 of the core 384 is 1.0 to 1.6 inches, 1.2 to 1.8 inches, 1.4 to 2.0 inches, 1.6 to 2.2 inches, 1.8 to 2 It can range from .4 inches, 2.0 to 2.6 inches, 2.2 to 2.8 inches, or 2.4 to 3.0 inches. In many embodiments, the core width 357 is smaller than the width 356 of the receiving portion 360. Since the end wall of the receiving portion 360 occupies a part of the width 356 of the receiving portion 360, the core width 357 is the receiving portion so that the end of the core 384 is flush with the first side surface 361 of the receiving portion 360. Must be less than 356 width. The removable strap connection mechanism 350 has a width that matches the width 357 of the receiving portion 360.

In some alternative embodiments, the channel 364 of the receiving portion 360 can be provided with a non-cylindrical shape. For example, the internal shape of the receiving portion 360 can be approximately square, triangular, trapezoidal, teardrop, or any other suitable shape. The core 384 of the core portion 380 can be provided with a shape corresponding to the channel 384 of the receiving portion 360.

The strap mounting tab 365 may include a slot for receiving the strap 354 of the carry bag 10. The slot is located adjacent to the end of the strap mounting tab 365 opposite the connection between the strap mounting tab 365 and the bow arm 366, 376 of the receiving portion 360. In other embodiments, the strap mounting tab 365 does not include a slot, but rather contains a material that can be permanently sewn onto the strap 354. Similarly, the bag mounting tab 385 may include a portion of the core portion 380 opposite to the connection between the bag mounting tab 385 and the core portion 380. This portion of the bag mounting tab 385 can be sewn to the body of the carry bag 10. In another embodiment, the bag mounting tab 385 comprises a slot for receiving a strap 354 sewn to the body of the carry bag 10. In yet another embodiment, the bag mounting tab 385 can be integrally formed with an element of the bag body, such as the partition top 30. In some embodiments, the bag mounting tab 385 is integrated into a bracket that is snapped, riveted, or glued to the partition top 30 of the carry bag 10. The bag mounting tab 385 is fixed to the bag body so as not to bend significantly with respect to the bag body.

In order to engage the core portion 380 with the receiving portion 360, (1) the core 384 of the core portion 380 is aligned with the first end opening 369 of the receiving portion 360. (2) The bag mounting tab 385 of the core portion 380 is aligned with the opening 368 between the first and second bow-shaped arms 366 and 376 of the receiving portion 360. (3) The core 384 of the core portion 380 is slid into the channel 364 of the receiving portion 360. The bag mounting tab 385 of the core portion 380 is received within the opening 368 between the first and second bowed arms 366 and 376 of the receiving portion 360. (4) When the locking mechanism of the core 384 and the channel 364 is snap-fitted to the locking configuration and the core 384 contacts the end wall of the receiving portion 360, the core portion 380 fully engages the receiving portion 360. Some extra force is required to engage the locking mechanism. In embodiments with a button release locking mechanism, the core portion 380 can also snap fit into the locked configuration. When the core 384 engages the channel 364, the first and second bowed arms 366, 376 of the receiving portion 360 almost completely enclose the core 384 of the core portion 380. The end wall of the receiving portion 360 prevents the core 384 from reaching too far through the channel 364. The ends of the first and second bow-shaped arms 366, 376 of the receiving portion 360 are located adjacent to the bag mounting tab 385 of the core portion 380. This structural configuration prevents the receiving portion 360 from rotating around the core 384 of the core portion 380. As a result, the strap mounting tab 365 of the receiving portion 360 is prevented from turning with respect to the core 384 or the bag mounting tab 385 of the core portion 380.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 148, when the core portion 380 engages the receiving portion 360, the strap mounting tab 365 and the bag mounting tab 385 are substantially coplanar (180 ° to each other). .. In another embodiment, the bag mount allows the bag mount tab 385 to form an angle between 75 ° and 180 ° from the strap mount tab 365 when the core portion 380 engages the receiving portion 360. The tab 385 is integrally attached to the core portion 380 at an angle. For example, the bag and strap mounting tabs 385 and 365 are 180 degrees (on the same plane), 175 degrees, 170 degrees, 165 degrees, 160 degrees, 155 degrees, 150 degrees, 145 degrees, 140 degrees, 135 degrees with respect to each other. , 130 degrees, 125 degrees, 120 degrees, 115 degrees, 110 degrees, 105 degrees, 100 degrees, 95 degrees, 90 degrees, 85 degrees, 80 degrees, 75 degrees, or any other suitable angle. .. FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of the core portion 380. The bag mounting tab 385 is at an angle of about 90 degrees from the core 384. The rigid angle at which the strap mounting tab 365 is held helps the strap 354 of the carry bag 10 to stand up (hold its orientation) when the carry bag 10 is placed on its abdomen (front 11).

The receiving portion 360 and the core portion 380 can be formed from metals such as aluminum alloys, zinc alloys, steels, or other suitable metals, or from molded polymeric materials. In some embodiments, the receiving portion 360 and the strap mounting tab 365 are integrally cast from a metallic material. In these embodiments, the core portion 380 and the bag mounting tab 385 are integrally molded from the polymeric material. In another embodiment, the receiving portion 360 and the strap mounting tab 365 are integrally cast from the metal material, and the core 384 and the bag mounting tab 385 are integrally cast from the metal material. In embodiments where the bag mounting tab 385 is made of metal, the bag mounting tab 385 typically comprises a slot for receiving a strap member that secures the bag mounting tab 385 to the carry bag 10.

The rigid strap connecting mechanism 350 arranges the strap 354 at a position protruding from the back surface 12 of the carry bag 10 at an angle when the carry bag 10 is placed under the abdomen on the ground. The stand-up strap 354 allows the user to pick up the bag 10 with minimal bending of the upper body. The removable strap connection mechanism 350 can also secure the wide strap 354 to the carry bag 10 so as to prevent unwanted twisting of the strap 354. Due to the large width of the strap connection mechanism 350, the entire end of the wide strap 354 can be fixed directly to the bag 10 without having to taper the strap 354 first. In many traditional bags, the wide straps must be tapered to a smaller width before being secured to the buckle and connected to the bag. This smaller width portion of the strap, along with the smaller width of the buckle, allows the strap to twist upside down or into other undesired configurations.

In addition, if the conventional buckle is designed to be large enough to accommodate a wide strap, the buckle will increase in length proportionally, resulting in a large offset distance between the bag and the strap. These large conventional buckles not only change the aesthetics of the bag, but also the feel of their stiff and bulky straps. The removable strap connection mechanism 350 provides a connection over a large surface area (due to its large width) and reduces the amount of stress applied to the mechanism at each point along the connection mechanism 350. The channel 364 and core 384 construction of the connection mechanism 350, along with the width, makes it possible to minimize the offset distance between the strap 354 and the bag 10. The offset distance between the end of the strap 354 and a portion of the back surface 12 of the bag 10 can range from 0.2 to 1.0 inches. For example, the offset distances are 0.2-0.4 inch, 0.3-0.5 inch, 0.4-0.6 inch, 0.5-0.7 inch, 0.6-0.8 inch. , 0.7 to 0.9 inches, or 0.8 to 1.0 inches. Offset distances are less than 1.0 inch, less than 0.8 inch, less than 0.7 inch, less than 0.6 inch, less than 0.5 inch, less than 0.4 inch, less than 0.3 inch, 0.2 inch It can be less than, or less than 0.1 inch. In one exemplary embodiment, the offset distance is between 0.2 and 0.5 inches. The minimum offset distance contributes to a thin and unobtrusive appearance.

The strap connection mechanism 350 can withstand the load of the bag 10 (including its contents) having a mass of 15 to 70 lbs. For example, the strap connection mechanism 350 is £ 15-20, £ 20-30, £ 20-40, £ 30-40, £ 40-50, £ 50-60, £ 10-30, £ 20-50, £ 30- It can withstand the load of a bag 10 with a weight of 60 lbs, or 40-70 lbs. In some embodiments, the removable strap connection mechanism 350 can withstand the load of the bag 10 containing its contents between 15 lbs and 35 lbs. The mix of structural and material properties of the removable strap connection 350 allows the mechanism to withstand greater weight than prior art connectors. The material properties of the receiving portion 360 can provide rigidity that prevents the first and second bowed arms 366 and 376 of the receiving portion 360 from deforming. This rigidity is important for retaining the core portion 380 within the receiving portion 360.

In addition, the removable strap connection mechanism 350 allows easy modification of the strap 354 on the carry bag 10. For example, the shoulder strap can be removed to replace the golf bag strap or to convert from a single strap to a double strap bag. In this example, the strap connection mechanism 350 can include two core portions 380 on the carry bag 10, providing two choices as to where to attach the single strap 354, allowing for a versatile strap configuration. To. In other embodiments, it is desirable to disengage the strap 354 from the carry bag 10 to allow the user to flatten the strap 354 with respect to the body of the bag 10 for storage. The removable strap connection mechanism 350 also allows for space-efficient transportation of the carry bag 10. In some carry bags, the removable strap connection mechanism 350 can be used at both ends of one or more straps 354. As a result, the strap 354 can be completely removed from the bag 10 if desired. This allows easy customization of strap colors or other properties later in the bag manufacturing process. The removable strap connection mechanism 350 offers functionality, connection strength, which offers customization, foldability, ergonomic handling, improved aesthetics, and other advantages over conventional strap-bag connection mechanisms. And provide quality.

D. Carry bag: Self-assembly kit

As mentioned above, the components of the carry bag 10 can be assembled into the subassembly 42. The subassembly 42 can include components of any modification. The subassembly 42 may be foldable. In addition, the subassembly 42 can be used to build the carry bag 10. In some embodiments, the subassembly 42 is provided as part of the self-assembly kit 400, as described below. The carry bag self-assembly kit 400 reduces the cost of the recipient as a result of reduced shipments and reduced labor costs of the supplier.

Here, with reference to FIGS. 54-72, embodiments of the subassembly for the foldable carry bag 10 are illustrated and described in the context of the self-assembly kit 400 (shown in FIG. 57). The kit 400 includes a golf bag 10 and a self-assembling system 700 that allows the recipient to assemble the golf bag 10 upon receipt.

As shown in FIGS. 54-55, the self-assembling kit 400 includes a box or container or shipping package 404 used to ship the golf bag 10 in a partially assembled state. Box 404 includes a top side or face side 408 that can be formed integrally with the flap or flap portion 412. The face side 408 is connected to a part of the box 404, more specifically to the side of the box, by a crease 416. The face side 408 defines a portion of the outer surface of the box 404. The faceside 408, on the other hand, also provides access to the interior of the box 404 by swiveling around the crease 416. The flap portion 412 defines an engaging surface for facilitating closure of the box 404. The engaging surface may include one or more tabs (not shown) that may be accepted by each slot 418 (shown in FIG. 57). Each slot 418 is defined by a portion of the box 404, separate from the faceside 408 and flap 412 (eg, the slot can be defined by one or more sides of the box 404). Tab and slot closures are provided for the purpose of exemplifying closures. It should be understood that any closure suitable for engaging the face side 408 and / or flap portion 412 with a portion of the box 404 may be performed.

Box 404 of the self-assembling kit 400 is shown in FIGS. 54-55, next to a known box currently used to ship a fully assembled golf bag. This comparison shows the reduced size of box 404 for a known box. More specifically, the box 404 has a volume of about 2,040 cubic inches (in ³ ), while the known box has a volume of about 5,190 cubic inches (in ³ ). Although the volume of the box is approximate, the box 404 has about 60% less volume than the known box. Box 404 is smaller in size and smaller in volume than known boxes. The range of volume reduction from known boxes used to ship assembled golf bags is from about 15% to about 70%, more specifically from about 25% to about 65%, more specifically. It ranges from about 35% to about 60%, more specifically over 50%.

The box 404 can include an indicia 420 to provide guidance to the recipient regarding the self-assembly of the golf bag 10. As shown in FIG. 56, the sign 420 includes instructions for assembling the golf bag 10. The assembly instructions may include one or more figures or detailed views to provide guidance and / or to indicate each assembly step. In the illustrated embodiment of the box 404, the indicia 420 is printed inside the faceside 408 (ie, when the box 404 is closed, the indicia 420 faces the inside of the box 404) and the recipient is in the crease 416. As the faceside 408 is swiveled around to open the box, the sign 420 is oriented readable and facing the recipient. The mark 420 is disclosed as being printed on the box 404, but in other embodiments the mark 420 may be included separately within the box (eg, as an instruction manual).

FIG. 57 shows the golf bag 10 in a first, partially assembled, folded state or aspect. The golf bag 10 is shipped in this state in the box 404. In FIG. 57, the golf bag 10 is shown removed from the box 404 and includes a partition top 30, a base 34, and a stay 39 (shown in FIG. 22). The flat portion 14 is attached to the partition top portion 30 and the base 34. The golf bag 10 is folded with the partition top 30 and the base 34 swiveled around the stay 39, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the partition top 30 and the base 34 are each swiveled about 90 degrees around the stay 39 towards each other. In another example of the embodiment, the partition top 30 and the base 34 can each be swiveled around the stay 39 at any angle suitable for folding the golf bag 10 for transport within the box 404. ..

In addition to the foldable golf bag 10, the kit 400 includes a self-assembling system 500. The self-assembling system 500 includes one or more components of the golf bag 10 assembled by the recipient.

With reference to FIG. 58, a first example of an embodiment of the self-assembling system 500 is shown. The illustrated system 500 can include a spring self-assembling system 501 (shown in FIG. 59) and a leg self-assembling system 502 (shown in FIG. 61 and described above). System 500 of FIG. 58 includes a portion of stand assembly 26, more specifically legs 40a, b and an attached spring 41. The spring 41 includes a connector 504 having a base engaging hook 508 (shown in FIG. 59). In some embodiments, the system 500 also provides an alignment aid 512 that assists the recipient in aligning the legs 40a, b with the mounting bracket 32 (shown in FIG. 66) for mounting. Including. The system 500 further includes rod pins or pins 516 for rotatably attaching the legs 40a, b to the mounting bracket 32.

Figures 59-60 further show the spring self-assembly system 501. System 501 includes a connector 504 that facilitates self-assembly of the spring 41 and base 34. Referring to FIG. 59, the base engaging hook 508 on connector 504 is configured to accept a portion of the base 34 or otherwise engage a portion of the base 34, a channel or hook portion (FIG. 59). Not shown) is included. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 34 defines a spring receiving slot or channel similar to channel 174 (shown in FIG. 25). The channel accepts or engages a portion of connector 504. The opening or window 520 is defined by a portion of the base 34, more specifically a portion of the spring receiving slot 518 of the base 34. A portion of the periphery of the opening 520 is defined by a member or crossing member 524 configured to be received within the gap or slot of the connector 504. To facilitate self-assembly, the recipient positions the connector 504 within the spring receiving slot 518. The recipient then engages the connector 504 with the base 34, allowing the base engaging hook 508 to receive the member 524. Once accepted, the base engagement hook 508 is accepted by the opening 520 shown in FIG. This forms a self-assembling connection between the connector 504 and the base 34, and more broadly between the spring 41 and the base 34. It should be understood that the self-assembling connection can be removable to allow disengagement or withdrawal of the connector 504 from the base 34. For example, the connection can be removed in order for the replacement self-assembling system 500 to replace the damaged portion of the stand assembly 26 (eg, the broken leg 40, the broken spring 41, etc.).

III. Cart bag

Another embodiment of a foldable golf bag or golf bag assembled from a subassembly can function as a cart bag 1010. Cart bags known in the art are larger than carry bags, as the weight of the bag can typically be greater than the weight carried by the golfer. Also, since the cart bag is stored on the golf cart during play, the cart bag generally lacks a shoulder strap and a stand assembly to support the bag. The functional requirements of the cart bag 1010 encourage certain design differences from typical carry bags. Some components of the cart bag 1010 are similar to the corresponding components of the carry bag 10. For example, the cart bag 1010 can be similar to the partition top 30, base 34 or base assembly 900, and flat portion 14 of the carry bag 10 described above, with the partition top 1030 and the base 1034 or base assembly 1900 flat. Includes parts 1014 and. The cart bag 1010 further comprises a plurality of stays connecting the partition top 1030 to the base 1034.

The cart bag 1010 described below includes components that are designed to collapse for transport and / or allow for quick assembly. Several components of the cart bag 1010 include snap-fit features or connections that simplify and speed up the assembly process. Snap-fit features or connections allow the cart bag 1010 to be assembled in a more efficient and ergonomic manner. This reduces production time and saves skilled labor costs. In addition, the foldable design of the cart bag 1010 embodiments described herein allows the cart bag 1010 to be easily transported between manufacturing sites.

113 to 135 show an example of an embodiment of the cart bag 1010. The cart bag 1010 is similar to the carry bag 10 and similar numbers are used to identify similar components. Referring to FIGS. 113-114, the cart bag 1010 includes a flat portion 1014. A plurality of pockets 1018 are attached to the flat portion 1014. The pocket includes a plurality of side pockets 1018a and a plurality of front pockets 1018b. In other embodiments, the flat portion 1014 may include at least one side pocket 1018a and at least one front pocket 1018b. The cart bag 1010 also includes a partition top 1030 and a base 1034. A plurality of stays 1039 extend from the partition top 1030 to the base 1034. The plurality of stays include a first stay 1039 (shown in FIG. 113), a second stay 1039a (shown in FIG. 114), and a third stay 1039b (shown in FIG. 114).

The first stay 1039 is rotatably connected to the partition top 30c and rotatably connected to the base 1034. The second and third stays 1039a and 1039b are respectively coupled to the partition top 1030 at the first end and to the base 1034 at the second end opposite the first end. The first stay 1039 is shown in FIG. 113 to show the positioning of the stay 1039 when the cart bag 1010 is in the operating configuration. However, since the first stay 1039 is located inside the flat portion 1014 (ie, the first stay 1039 is covered by the flat portion 1014), the first stay 1039 uses the golf bag 1010. Please understand that it is generally invisible to the person. The second and third stays 1039a and 1039b shown in FIG. 114 are coupled to the flat portion 1014. More specifically, the flat portion 1014 includes a plurality of elongated pockets 1704a, 1704b (or longitudinal pockets 1704a, 1704b). Each pocket 1704a, 1704b defines a channel or passage (not shown) configured to accommodate one of the stays 1039a, 1039b. The pockets 1704a and 1704b are joined to the flat portion 1014 (for example, by stitching) in a state where the first pocket 1704a accepts the second stay 1039a and the second pocket 1704b accepts the third stay 1039b. Will be done. The first stay 1039 is arranged on the back side 1011 of the golf bag 1010. The second and third stays 1039b and 1039c are arranged near (or above) the ventral 1012 (or anterior) of the golf bag 1010. More specifically, the second and third stays 1039b and 1039c are close to the ventral side 1012 by being located on the side surface of the ventral side 1012 (further described in connection with FIG. 122). In another embodiment, the first stay 1039 can be placed on the ventral side 1012 and the second and third stays 1039 and 1039b can be placed on the dorsal side 1011. In yet another embodiment, the first, second, and third stays 1039, 1039a, 1039b are any suitable aspects of the cart bag 1010 (eg, for example, to provide proper support for the cart bag 1010. It can be positioned on the dorsal surface 1011, the ventral side 1012, or any side surface located between the dorsal and ventral sides 1011 and 1012) in any suitable spaced relationship.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 115-116, the subassembly 1042 is shown in an assembled configuration. The partition top 30c, the base 1034, and the plurality of stays 1039, 1039a, 1039b collectively define the subassembly 1042.

A. Cart bag: partition top

The cart bag 1010 may include a partition top 1030 that provides the structure for the cart bag 1010 and an opening that allows the golf club inserted into the cart bag 1010 to be separated. The partition top 1030 of the cart bag 1010 can include the features described above. The partition top 1030 of the cart bag 1010 is shown in detail in FIGS. 117-118. The plurality of handles 1033a and 1033b are connected to the partition top 30c or formed in other ways. The handles 1033a and 1033b are arranged on both sides of the partition top 30c. The partition top 1030 can include any number of partition openings 1082. In the illustrated embodiment of the cart bag partition top 30c, the intersecting member 114 and the intermediate member 80 together form a total of 15 partition openings 1082 (shown in FIG. 122). In particular, with reference to FIGS. 115 and 117, at least one of the partition openings 1082 can be a putter well 1716. In the illustrated embodiment, the putter well 1716 is generally larger than the other partition openings 1082. In other embodiments, the putter well 1716 can be of any suitable size with respect to the other partition opening 1082.

The partition top 1030 can be connected to the flat portion 1014 by any of the methods described above. However, in the illustrated embodiment of the cart bag 1010, the flat portion 1014 is fixed to the partition top 1030 via a snap-fit connector. With reference to FIGS. 117-118 again, the outer ring 74 includes a plurality of mounting openings 1720. The mounting opening 1720 is arranged around the circumference (or perimeter) of the outer ring 74. Each mounting opening 1720 accepts fasteners or snap-fit connectors to facilitate mounting of the flat portion 1014 to the outer ring 74, more specifically to the partition top 30c of the flat portion 1014. It is composed. The attachment of the flat portion 1014 to the partition top portion 1030 will be described in more detail below.

The partition top 1030 also includes a plurality of top stay hubs 1724. As shown in FIGS. 117-118, the outer ring 74 includes a first top stay hub 1724a and a second top stay hub 1724b (shown in FIG. 118). The first and second top stay hubs 1724a, 1724b have substantially the same design and are spaced apart on the outer ring 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second top stay hubs 1724a, 1724b are arranged on both sides of the ventral side 1012 of the partition top 30c. However, in other embodiments, the first and second top stay hubs 1724a, 1724b may be located at any suitable location on the outer ring 74, such as the opposite side of the back surface 1011 of the partition top 30c. .. In yet another embodiment, the outer ring 74 may include a single top stay hub 1724, or three or more top stay hubs 1724. The top stay hubs 1724a, 1724b receive the respective upper ends (or first ends) of the stays 1039a and 1039b. More specifically, the first top stay hub 1724a accepts the upper end of the second stay 1039a, and the second top stay hub 1724b receives the upper end of the third stay 1039b.

B. Cart bag: base

The cart bag 1010 can further include a base 1034. The base 1034 provides a support structure for the cart bag 1010 and connects to one or more of the stays 1039, 1039a, 1039b, the flat portion 1014, and the partition sleeve 1046. The base 1034 of the cart bag 1010 can include the features described above. One embodiment of the base 1034 of the cart bag 1010 is shown in detail in FIGS. 119 and 120. In addition to the features described above, the illustrated base 1034 also includes a plurality of base stay hubs 1736. The lip 1072 includes a first base stay hub 1736a and a second base stay hub 1736b (shown in FIG. 120). The first and second base stay hubs 1736a, 1736b have substantially the same design and are spaced apart on the lip 72. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second base stay hubs 1736a, 1736b are arranged on both sides of the ventral side 1012 of the base 1034 (see FIG. 120). However, in other embodiments, the first and second base stay hubs 1736a, 1736b are located at any suitable location on the lip 1072 (eg, opposite sides of the back surface 1011 of the partition top 30c). Can be done. In yet another embodiment, the lip 1072 can include a single base stay hub 1736, or three or more base stay hubs 1736. The base stay hubs 1736a, 1736b are generally aligned (or aligned with) the corresponding top stay hubs 1724a, 1724b when the base stay hubs 826a, 826b receive the respective lower ends (or second ends) of the stays 1039a, 1039b. (Aligned vertically). More specifically, the first base stay hub 1736a receives the lower end of the second stay 1039a, and the second base stay hub 1736b receives the lower end of the third stay 1039b.

With reference back to FIG. 115, the first stay 1039 includes a first stay hinge 1740 (or top stay hinge 1740) and a second stay hinge 1744 (or base stay hinge 1744). The first and second stay hinges 1740 and 1744 have the same structure as the base stay hinge 170 (shown in FIGS. 26 to 28). In other embodiments, the first and second stay hinges 1740, 1744 can both be stay hinges 162 (shown in FIGS. 23-24), or be one of stay hinges 162 or stay hinges 170, respectively. (For example, the first stay hinge 1740 can be a hinge 170, the second stay hinge 1744 can be a hinge 162, and so on). The first stay hinge 1740 is coupled to the first end of stay 1039 and is received by a stay receiving channel 1174a (shown in FIG. 121) defined by a partition apex 30c. The second stay hinge 1744 is connected to the second end of the stay 1039 on the opposite side of the first end. The second stay hinge 1744 is received by the stay receiving channel 174b (shown in FIGS. 116 and 120) defined by the base 1034. The first stay hinge 1740 facilitates the tilt (or swivel) of the partition top 1030 with respect to the stay 1039, while the second stay hinge 1744 facilitates the tilt (or swivel) of the base 1034 with respect to the stay 1039. The stay 1039 has a substantially square (or rectangular) cross section. The stays 1039a and 1039b have a substantially circular cross section. In other embodiments, each stay 1039, 1039a, 1039b can have a cross section of any suitable shape (eg, square, circle, rectangle, hexagon, octagon, triangle, etc.).

In the illustrated embodiment, the stay receiving channels 174a, 174b are located inside the respective partition apex 1030 or base 1034. On the other hand, the stay hubs 1724a, 1724b, 1736a, 1736b are arranged outside the respective partition tops 1030 or base 1034. As shown in FIGS. 118 and 121, the stay receiving channel 1174a is located inside the outer ring 74 (see FIG. 121). On the other hand, the top stay hubs 1724a and 1724b are arranged on the outer side opposite to the outer ring 74 (see FIG. 118). As shown in FIG. 120, the stay receiving channel 174b is located inside the lip 72. On the other hand, the base stay hubs 1736a and 1736b are arranged on the outer side opposite to the lip 72. In other embodiments, stay receiving channels 174a, 174b can be located outside the respective lip 1072 or outer ring 74, and stay hubs 1724, 1724b, 1736a, 1736b are inside the respective lip 1072 or outer ring 74. Can be placed in. In yet another embodiment, the stay receiving channels 174a, b and stay hubs 1724a, 1724b, 1736a, 1736b are placed inside the respective lip 1072 or outer ring 74, or outside the respective lip 1072 or outer ring 74. be able to.

1. 1. Cart bag: Two-piece snap coupling base

In some embodiments, the cart bag 1010 comprises a two-piece snap-join base assembly 900 similar to the snap-join base assembly described above. With reference to FIGS. 91 and 92, a base assembly 900 for a cart bag is shown. In some embodiments, the base assembly 900 of the cart bag 1010 is formed such that the lower end 912 of the ring portion 910 further comprises a plurality of stayports 940. The ring portion 910 can include two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or more stayports 940. In the illustrated embodiment, the ring portion 910 includes four stayports 940. The plurality of stay ports 940 each receive the lower end of each stay of the plurality of stays. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of stay ports 940 are mounted inside the base ring 910 of the base assembly 900. In some embodiments, multiple stayports 940 are attached to the outside of the base ring 910 of base assembly 900 (similar to stayports 1736a, 1736b in FIGS. 119 and 120). The base portion 920 includes a plurality of port housings 942 that accept the plurality of stay ports 940 when the base portion 920 engages the ring portion 910. In any given embodiment, the number of port housings 942 in the base portion can be equal to the number of stay ports 940 on the top ring 910. In another embodiment, the cart bag's two-piece base assembly 900 can have a stay receiving channel similar to that described above. The stay accommodating channel can be integrally connected to the ring portion 910.

C. Cart bag: stay

As mentioned above, the cart bag 1010 can further include a plurality of stays. In the illustrated embodiment, the cart bag 1010 includes a first stay 1039, a second stay 1039a, and a third stay 1039b. The first, second, and third stays 1039, 1039a, and 1039b connect the partition top 1030 to the base 1034. The partition top 1030 and the base 1034 are provided with stay hubs for receiving stays 1039, 1039a, and 1039b, respectively. The stay hub fixes the stays 1039, 1039a, 1039b and provides the cart bag 1010 with a rigid structure.

Here, referring to FIG. 122, which depicts the partition apex 1030 from the top view, the aligned stay hubs 1724a, 1736a, and 1724b, 1736b are located closer to the ventral side 1012 of the subassembly 1042, more specifically. Adjacent to the ventral 1012 of subassembly 1042. In other words, the aligned stay hubs 1724a, 1736a are located on the first side of the respective partition apex 1030 or base 1034, which is closer to the ventral side 1012 than the back surface 1011. The aligned stay hubs 1724b, 1736b are arranged on the second side of the respective partition apex 1030 or base 1034, which is closer to the ventral side 1012 than the back surface 1011. The second side is opposite to the first side. This arrangement (or geometry) aids in the base 1034 of the golf bag 1010, which is properly accepted by different golf carts (eg, electric golf carts, push carts, pull carts, etc.). For example, FIG. 123 is a top view of an example of a portion of an electric cart liner 1748 configured to accept a golf bag. The illustrated Cartliner 1748 is manufactured for use in electric golf carts, but is not intended to be a limited example. The cartoliner 1748 defines a recess 1752, a first bow wall 1756, and a second bow wall 1760. The arcuate walls 1756, 1760 are located at opposite ends (or sides) of the recess 1752 and partially define the golf bag receiving area within the recess 1752. As shown in FIG. 124, the base 1034 of the cart bag 1010 is arranged in the recess 1752. The base 1034 is configured to fit between the bow walls 1756, 1760. More specifically, the base stay hubs 1736a, 1736b are arranged adjacent to the ventral side 1012 and thus do not contact the cartliner 1748 and the ventral side 1012 of the lip 1072 is received by the first bow wall 1756. To enable. By placing the vertically aligned stay hubs 1724, 1736 on the partition top 1030 and the base 1034 and adjacent to the ventral side 1012, the stay hubs 1724, 1736 do not contact or otherwise interfere with the Cartrainer 1748. .. This allows the cart bag 1010 to be properly placed within the Cartliner 1748 (or within any suitable golf bag receiving portion of the golf cart).

1. 1. Cart bag: Top stay hub

The partition top 1030 of the cart bag 1010 may include one or more top stay hubs for receiving one or more stays 1039, 1039a, 1039b of the cart bag 1010. 125 and 126 further show a top stay hub 1724, more specifically a second top stay hub 1724b. The top stay hub 1724b includes a housing 1764. Housing 1764 extends (or projects) away from the outer ring 74 of the partition top 30c. The housing 1764 can be molded (or formed) together with the partition top 30c. In another embodiment, the housing 1764 can be attached to the partition top 1030 (eg, by glue, fasteners, etc.). As shown in FIG. 126, housing 1764 comprises channels 1772 defined by a partial circumference. Further, as shown in FIG. 126, housing 1764 defines an opening 1768 in channel 1772. The opening 1768 leads to a channel 1772 (shown in FIG. 126) defined by housing 1764. The channel 1772 extends above the opening 1768 into the housing 1764 to form a recess 1776. The recess 1776 is configured to receive the associated stay 1039b. Since the recess 1776 is located within the housing 1764, the recess 1776 helps hold the stay 1039b by defining a step feature. In some embodiments, the opening 1768 of the housing 1764 has a width equal to or greater than the diameter of the associated stay 1039b. A width equal to or greater than the diameter of the associated stay 1039b allows the associated stay 1039c to be easily placed within the housing 1764. In another embodiment (not shown), the partial circumference defining the channel 1772 at the opening 1768 further extends towards the outer ring 74 of the partition top 30c, reducing the width of the opening 1768. In this exemplary embodiment, the width of the opening 1768 is smaller than the diameter of the associated stay 1039b. The smaller width of the opening 1768 allows the associated stay 1039b to be placed in the housing 1764 and, when placed in the housing 1764, to be held in the channels 1772 and recess 1776. .. In yet another embodiment, in addition to the recess 1776, the housing 1764 can include the protrusions 1780 (or bump features) shown in FIG. 126. The protrusion 1780 can extend from the housing 1764 towards the opening 1768. The protrusion 1780 can have an inclined (or arched) surface to facilitate sliding engagement between the stay 1039b and the channel 1772. When the stay 1039b is received (or positioned) by the channel 1772, the protrusion 1780 reduces the width of the opening 1768 so that it is smaller than the width of the stay 1039b. Therefore, the protrusion 1780 can further help hold the stay 1039b. Housing 1764 also extends from the outer ring 74 by a distance defining a gap 1784 (or flat channel 1784) between the outer ring 74 and channel 1772. The gap 1784 positions the stay 1039b so that it is offset from the outer ring 74 of the partition top 30c. The gap 1784 also provides a spacing for positioning the flat portion 1014, which will be discussed in more detail below. The first top stay hub 1724a is substantially the same as the second top stay hub 1724b. Therefore, it should be understood that the first top stay hub 1724a incorporates the features described above in connection with the second top stay hub 1724b.

FIG. 127 shows an alternative embodiment of the top stay hub 1724c. In this embodiment, the top stay hub 1724c is attached to the stay 1039b (eg, by fasteners, glue, etc.). The top stay hub 1724c defines a protruding assembly 1788 configured to engage the corresponding opening 1792 defined by the outer ring 74 of the partition top 30c. The protrusion assembly 1788 can form a snap fit in response to being accepted by the opening 1792 and the stay 1039b can be coupled to the partition top 30c. It should be understood that the top stay hub 1724c can be used in place of one or both of the top stay hubs 1724a, 1724b.

2. Cart bag: Base stay hub

The base 1034 of the cart bag 1010 may include one or more base stay hubs for receiving one or more stays 1039, 1039a, 1039b of the cart bag 1010. 128 and 129 further show a base stay hub 1736, more specifically a first base stay hub 1736a. With reference to FIG. 129, the base stay hub 1736a includes a housing 1796. The housing 1796 extends (or projects) away from the lip 1072 of the base 1034. The housing 1796 can be molded (or formed) with the base 1034. In other embodiments, the housing 1796 may be attached to the base 1034 (eg, by glue, fasteners, etc.). Housing 1796 defines an opening 1800. The opening 1800 leads to channel 1804 defined by housing 1796. The channel 1804 extends into the housing 1796 below the opening 1800 to form the recess 1808. The recess 1808 is configured to receive the associated stay 1039a. Since the recess 1808 is located within the housing 1796, the recess 1808 helps hold the stay 1039a by defining a step feature. The housing 1796 also extends from the lip 1072 by a distance defining a gap 1812 (or flat channel 1812) between the lip 1072 and the channel 1804. The gap 1812 positions the stay 1039a so that it is offset from the lip 1072 of the base 1034. The gap 1812 also provides a spacing for positioning the flat portion 1014, which will be discussed in more detail below. The second base stay hub 1736b is substantially the same as the first base stay hub 1736a. Therefore, it should be understood that the second base stay hub 1736b incorporates the features described above in connection with the first base stay hub 1736a.

FIG. 130 shows a partition sleeve 1046 coupled to the subassembly 1042. The partition sleeve 1046 extends from the partition top 30c and couples to the base 1034. More specifically, a plurality of fasteners (eg, rivets, bolts, etc.) are connected to the partition sleeve 1046. Each fastener is received by the respective partition mounting opening 1732 (see FIG. 122) on the bottom surface 1038 to couple the partition sleeve 1046 to the base 1034. Each partition mounting opening 1732 is such that it accepts fasteners to facilitate mounting of the partition sleeve 1046 (or partition 1046) to the bottom surface 1038, and more specifically to mounting the partition sleeve 1046 to the base 1034. It is composed of. The partition sleeve 1046 can also be coupled to the partition top 30c as described above in connection with the partition top 30.

FIGS. 131-134 show a flat portion 1014 coupled (or otherwise attached) to the subassembly 1042. Referring to FIG. 131, the flat portion 1014 is connected to the partition top portion 1030 by a plurality of fasteners 1816 (eg, snap buttons, etc.). The flat portion includes a plurality of first fasteners 1816a (eg, male portions of snap buttons). The partition top 1030 includes a plurality of second fasteners 1816b (eg, female portions of snap buttons). Each of the second fasteners 1816b is received (or placed therein) by one of the mounting openings 1720 placed around the circumference (or perimeter) of the outer ring 74 (shown in FIGS. 117-118). ). The first and second fasteners 1816a and 1816b are configured to engage and fix the flat portion 1014 to the partition top portion 30c. As shown in FIG. 132, the first and second fasteners 1816a and 1816b are hidden when the flat portion 1014 is attached to the partition top 30c. The first fastener 1816a is connected to a collar 1824 (eg, PE board, gusset, etc.). The collar 1824 is coupled to the flat portion 1014 by a binding 1828 (eg, stitching) so that the collar 1824 is not exposed (or not covered by the flat portion 1014). Returning to FIG. 131, the flat portion 1014 also includes a self-fastening tool 1820 (eg, a zipper, etc.) that connects the seam edges 203, 204 of the flat portion 1014. In the illustrated embodiment, the self-fastener 1820 is a zipper. In other embodiments, the self-fastener 1820 fits within any suitable fastener (eg, single zipper, two zippers, hook and loop fasteners (VELCRO®, associated rails). It can be a mounting track with a tongue, a snap fit button, etc.).

Referring to FIG. 133, the flat portion 1014 is also connected to the base 1034 by a plurality of fasteners 1816 (eg, snap buttons, etc.). The flat portion includes a plurality of first fasteners 1816a (eg, male portions of snap buttons). The base 1034, on the other hand, includes a plurality of second fasteners 1816b (eg, female portions of snap buttons). Each of the second fasteners 1816b is received (or placed therein) by one of the mounting openings 1728 placed around the circumference (or perimeter) of the lip 1072 (shown in FIG. 119). The first and second fasteners 1816a and 1816b are configured to engage and secure the flat portion 1014 to the base 1034. As shown in FIG. 134, the first and second fasteners 1816a, 1816b are hidden when the flat portion 1014 is attached to the base 1034. The first fastener 1816a is connected to a collar 1824 (eg, PE board, gusset, etc.). The collar 1824 is coupled to the flat portion 1014 by a binding 1828 (eg, stitching) so that the collar 1824 is not exposed (or not covered by the flat portion 1014). Returning to FIGS. 131 and 133, once the flat portion 1014 is attached to the partition top 1030 and the base 1034 by the fastener 1816, the self-fastener is engaged to engage the seam edges 203, 204 of the flat portion 1014. It can be connected and the flat portion 1014 can be joined to the subassembly 1042. The flat portion 1014 is arranged between the partition top portion 1030 and the top stay hubs 1724a and 1724b, and between the base 1034 and the base stay hubs 1736a and 1736b. More specifically, the flat portion 1014 is located within the gap 1784 (or flat channel 1784) between the partition top 1030 and each of the top stay hubs 1724a, 1724b. The flat portion 1014 is also arranged in the gap 1812 (or flat channel 1812) between the base 1034 and the base stay hubs 1736a, 1736b. By positioning the flats 1014 within the associated gaps 1784, 1812, the user can easily attach (or remove) the second and third stays 1039a and 1039b without interference from the flats 1014.

To facilitate the user's assembly of the golf bag 1010, the bag 1010 is generally provided to the user as shown in FIG. 135. The flat portion 1014 is attached to a subassembly 1042 (as shown in FIGS. 131-134). However, the second and third stays 1039a and 1039b are removed. As a result, the partition top portion 1030 can rotate with respect to the first stay 1039, and the base 1034 can rotate with respect to the first stay 1039. To facilitate swivel movement, reduce wear of flat material, and reduce wrinkles or other unwanted visual tendencies, the flat portion 1014 is elastic in the area where the flat portion 1014 joins the partition top 1030 and the base 1034. Material 1832 can be included. The golf bag 1010 is in a partially assembled, folded form, with the partition top 1030 and the base 1034 swiveled relative to the first stay 1039. In the folded form, the golf bag 1010 can be shipped in the box 44.

To assemble the golf bag 1010, the bag 1010 is removed from the box 44. The user can then rotate the partition top 1030 to the unfolded position with respect to the first stay 1039 and the base 1034 to the unfolded position with respect to the first stay 1039. To achieve the unfolding position, the partition top 1030 and the base 1034 are swiveled away from each other. Next, the user inserts the second and third stays 1039a and 1039b. The user can insert the stays 1039a and 1039b into the pockets 1704a and 1704b (shown in FIG. 114), respectively. Next, the stays 1039a and 1039b are inserted into the base stay hubs 1736. Each stay 1039a, 1039b is inserted into the corresponding base stay hubs 1736a, 1736b through the opening 1800 and into the recess 1808. Next, the stays 1039a and 1039b are inserted into the corresponding top stay hubs 1724a, 1724b. Each stay 1039a, 1039b is inserted into the channel 1772 through the opening 1768 and placed in the recess 1776. The golf bag 1010 is in an unfolded form (shown in FIG. 113) with each stay 1039a, 1039b engaged with both the top and base stay hubs 1724a, 1736a, and 1724b, 1736b.

136-138 show alternative embodiments of the golf bag 1010. In this embodiment, the stay 1039 is arranged on the ventral side 1012 of the golf bag 1010. The second and third stays 1039a and 1039b are also coupled to the modular front pocket assembly 1836. To assemble the golf bag 1010, the bag 1010 is removed from the box 44. The user can then swivel the partition top 1030 to the unfolded position with respect to the first stay 1039 and the base 1034 to the unfolded position with respect to the first stay 1039 (shown in FIG. 101). The user then engages the second and third stays 1039a, 1039b with the top and base stay hubs 1724a, 1736a, and 1724b, 1736b, as described above, to assemble the modular front pocket assembly 1836. Join to subassembly 1042 (on the back 1011). In the unfolded form (shown in FIG. 138), the modular front pocket assembly 1836 covers the self-fastener 1820 of the flat portion 1014 (shown in FIG. 137).

139-141 show alternative embodiments of the golf bag 1010. In this embodiment, the stay 1039 is arranged on the ventral side 1012 of the golf bag 1010. The second and third stays 1039a and 1039b are also coupled to the modular front pocket assembly 1836. In addition, the second and third stays 1039a and 1039b are coupled to the partition top 1030 (ie, not removable). To assemble the golf bag 1010, the bag 1010 is removed from the box 44. Next, the user can turn the partition top 1030 to the unfolded position with respect to the first stay 1039 and the base 1034 to the unfolded position with respect to the first stay 1039 (shown in FIG. 140). The user then closes at least one first self-fastening tool (such as a zipper) 1820 (shown in FIG. 140) to fasten the modular front pocket assembly 1836 to the flat portion 1014. The user also closes a second self-fixing tool (such as a hook and loop fixing tool) 1840 to connect the modular front pocket assembly 1836 to the base 1034. As a result, the bag 1010 is in the unfolded form (shown in FIG. 141).

142 to 143 show alternative embodiments of the golf bag 1010. In this embodiment, the stay 1039 is located on the ventral side 1012 of the golf bag 1010 and the modular front pocket assembly 1836 is connected to the partition top 30c. To assemble the golf bag 1010, the bag 1010 is removed from the box 44. Next, the user can swivel the partition top 1030 to the unfolded position with respect to the first stay 1039 and the base 1034 to the unfolded position with respect to the first stay 1039 (shown in FIG. 143). The user then closes at least one first self-fastening tool (such as a zipper) 1820 (shown in FIG. 142) to fasten the modular front pocket assembly 1836 to the flat portion 1014. Next, the user can insert the second and third stays 1039a and 1039b into the opening 1844 formed in the partition top 30c. The second and third stays 1039a and 1039b are inserted until they each engage the corresponding opening (not shown) of the base 1034. Alternatively, the user can insert the putter tube 1848 into the putter well 1716. The putter tube 1848 is inserted until it engages with the corresponding opening (not shown) of the base 1034. When the second and third stays 1039a, 1039b or putter tube 1848 are inserted, the bag 1010 is in an unfolded form (shown in FIG. 143).

FIG. 144 shows an embodiment of a golf bag 1010 having a portion of a flat portion 1014 removed from the subassembly 1042 to show additional features. The partition apex 1030 and / or the base 1034 may include an alignment aid 1852 to assist in the proper alignment of the flat portion 1014 on the subassembly 1042. The alignment aid 1852 can be an alignment snap button, a molding feature, or any other suitable guide to assist in aligning the flat portion 1014 with respect to the subassembly 1042. The flat portion 1014 can also include fasteners 1856 to help connect the flat portion 1014 to the partition top 1030 and / or the base 1034. The fastener 1856 has a first portion of the fastener 1856a (eg, hook, loop, etc.) disposed on the partition top 1030 and / or base 1034, and a second portion of the fastener 1856b (eg, loop, hook, etc.). ) Can include hooks and loop fasteners placed on the flat portion 1014. Fasteners 1856 can be hook-and-loop fastener tapes, button snaps, zippers, or any other suitable fasteners. The flat portion 1014 can also include one or more guide pockets 1860 configured to accommodate the first stay 1039. The guide pocket 1860 can also assist in proper alignment of the flat portion 1014 with respect to the subassembly 1042.

IV. Subassembly manufacturing method

The golf bags 10, 1010 described herein can be manufactured by various methods. As mentioned above, the golf bags 10, 1010 include at least a base, a partition top, a partition sleeve, a stay, and a flat portion. Different embodiments of each feature can be combined to form a number of variants of the golf bags 10, 1010. The manufacturing method can be modified for different variations of the golf bags 10, 1010. An example of a method for manufacturing the golf bags 10 and 1010 will be described below.

One exemplary method comprises 10 major steps. In step 1, a base, a partition top, a partition sleeve, a stay, a leg / stand assembly, and a flat portion are provided. In step 2, leg mounting brackets are attached to the top of the partition, if necessary for the embodiments of golf bags 10 and 1010 to be assembled. In step 3, the partition sleeve is attached to the base or flat section. In step 4, the stay is attached to the base and the top of the partition. In step 5, the flat portion is fixed to the partition top. In step 6, the leg assembly is attached to the leg mounting bracket, partition top, and / or base, if required for embodiments of the golf bags 10, 1010 to be assembled. In step 7, if the embodiments of the golf bags 10, 1010 to be assembled include a multi-piece divider and / or base, the assembly of the divider and / or base is complete. In step 8, the flat portion is fixed to the base. In step 9, the golf bag is packaged for shipping.

The order of these steps can be changed based on the configuration of specific features. In addition, golf bags 10, 1010 may be packaged and shipped in a partially assembled state at any time during the manufacturing process. This process can be divided into first and second manufacturing stages. Here, the golf bags 10, 1010 are packaged and transported between the positions after the first stage and before the second stage. The above-mentioned steps in the manufacturing method can be divided into any combination between the first manufacturing step and the second manufacturing step. In some embodiments of the method of manufacturing golf bags 10, 1010, one or more steps are modified or modified to provide a self-assembling kit, as opposed to fully assembled golf bags 10, 1010. Omitted. For example, as described above for the self-assembly kit 400, mounting the leg assembly can be omitted from the manufacturing process and can be done by the recipient. Hereinafter, the manufacturing process will be described in more detail.

Providing the base 34 and the partition top 30 (step (1)) includes forming, forming, three-dimensional printing, casting, or otherwise manufacturing the base 34, 1034 and the partition tops 30, 1030. In embodiments where the bases 34, 1034 and / or the partition tops 30, 1030 include a plurality of elements, each element must be separately molded, formed, three-dimensionally printed, cast, or otherwise manufactured. In embodiments where bases 34, 1034 and / or partition tops 30, 1030 are provided with snap connectors or other fastening mechanisms, snap connectors or other fastening mechanisms are provided, and snap connectors or other fastening mechanisms are used for bases 34, 1034 and / Or attached to the partition tops 30, 1030. Providing the partition tops 30, 1030 can also include providing a mesh cover for wrapping at least a portion of the partition tops 30, 1030, such as the intersecting members 78, 1078. The mesh can be secured or sewn to the partition tops 30, 1030 with hook-and-loop fasteners (eg, VELCRO®).

Supplying partition sleeves 46, 1046, stays 39, 1039, leg systems 502, and flats 14, 1014 (step (1)) supplies fabrics, mechanical fasteners, and materials for the stays. including. The fabrics are sewn together to form partition sleeves 46 and 1046. The body of stays 39, 1039 is formed by molding, casting, three-dimensional printing, or other methods. The top and base stay hinges 162 and 170, 1740 and 1744 are also formed by molding, casting, three-dimensional printing, or other methods. The top stay hinges 162 and the base stay hinges 170, 1740 and 1744 are secured to the top and bottom of the stays 39 and 1039 by gluing, mechanical snap mechanism or other suitable connecting means, respectively. In many embodiments, an adhesive or epoxy is used to bond the top stay hinges 162 and the base stay hinges 170, 1740 and 1744 to the body of the stay to form stays 39 and 1039. Providing the leg system 502 can include providing two legs, a spring system 501, end caps 528a, 528b, and pins 516 if desired. The two legs can be formed, wrapped, layered, cast, or otherwise formed. The end caps 528a and 528b can be formed by molding, three-dimensional printing, casting, or other methods. Pin 516 can be formed, cast, extruded, or otherwise formed. Providing a spring system 501 includes forming spring-to-leg brackets by molding, casting, or other methods and attaching the brackets to the spring. To provide the leg system 502, the spring system 501 is attached to the leg via a spring-leg bracket. The components of the leg system 502 may be provided as assembled, partially assembled, or as individual packaged parts. In the flat portion 14, the cloth is sewn into a desired shape, the pocket 18 is sewn on the flat portion 14, the fastener is sewn on the flat portion 14, 1014 if necessary, and the semi-hard material is sewn on the flat portion 14, 1014. Provided by sewing or fixing to.

The step of attaching the leg mounting bracket 32 to the partition top 30 (step (2)) is a step of riveting the leg mounting bracket 32 to the partition top 30 and a step of snap-fitting the leg mounting bracket 32 to the partition top 30. And the step of adhering the leg mounting bracket 32 to the partition top 30 can be included. In order to rivet the leg mounting bracket 32, the bracket must be aligned with the correct portion of the partition top 30. In some embodiments, four rivets are inserted to hold the bracket 32 in the top divider 30. One rivet is placed on each side of the leg anchor 122 of the leg mounting bracket 32 and two rivets are placed between the leg anchor 122. In another embodiment of the method, any number of rivets can be used to secure the bracket 32 to the partition top 30. In some embodiments of the golf bag 10, the leg mounting bracket 32 is formed integrally with the partition top 30. Therefore, this step of connecting the leg mounting bracket 32 is not necessary.

The step (step (3)) of attaching the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 to the partition tops 30 and 1030 can include sewing the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 directly to the partition tops 30 and 1030. In some embodiments, the flaps 90 of the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 are wrapped around the intersecting members 78 and 1078 of the partition tops 30 and 1030 and sewn onto the woven fabric of the overlapping fabrics of the partition sleeves 46 and 1046. In another embodiment, the flaps 90 of the partition sleeves 46, 1046 are wound around the intersecting members 78, 1078 of the partition tops 30, 1030 in a similar manner. However, the flap 90 is fixed via a self-fixing mechanism such as a hook-and-loop fastener (VELCRO®, etc.) instead of being sutured.

The step of attaching the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 to the bases 34 and 1034 (step (4)) is a step of passing the connecting member 50 through the slots 62 of the bases 34 and 1034 and fixing the self-fasteners 58a and 58b of the connecting members 50. Can include steps and. In another embodiment, attaching the partition sleeves 46 and 1046 to the bases 34 and 1034 can include fixing the connecting members 50 of the bases 34 and 1034 to the respective connecting members 50 of the partition sleeves 46 and 1046. .. In yet another embodiment, the connecting members 50 and partition sleeves 46, 1046 of the bases 34, 1034 snap together or clip together to hold the partition sleeves 46, 1046 in the correct position within the golf bags 10, 1010. Be fastened. In another embodiment, the connecting member 50 can be fixed via sutures (sewing) instead of through fasteners.

The step (step (5)) of attaching the stays 39 and 1039 to the base 34, 1034, the base ring portion 910, the flat portion 14, and / or the partition top portions 30, 1030 is to attach the stays 39, 1039, top hinges 162, 1740. A step of fixing to the partition tops 30, 1030 and fixing the base stay hinges 170, 1744 to the bases 34, 1034 can be included. The top stay hinges 162, 1740 and the base stay hinges 170, 1744 are glued to the channels on the partition tops 30, 1030 and bases 34, 1034, respectively. In other embodiments, the top stay hinges 162, 1740 and the base stay hinges 170, 1744 may be snap-connected to channels on the partition tops 30, 1030 and bases 34, 1034, respectively. In embodiments with a two-part base assembly having a ring portion and a base portion, the stays 39, 1039 are attached to the ring portion before the base portion is snapped onto the ring portion.

The steps (step (6)) of fixing the flat portions 14, 1014 to the partition tops 30, 1030 include a step of riveting the flat portions 14, 1014 to the partition tops 30, 1030, and the flat portions 14, 1014 to the partition top 30. A combination of a step of attaching to 1030 via a fastener (such as a snap-fit connector such as VELCRO® or a hook-and-loop fastener) and a step of including or riveting and attaching with a fastener. Can include. In some embodiments, the flat portions 14, 1014 are via structural restraints such as windows on the flat portions 14, 1014 that engage the channels of the leg mounting brackets 32 attached to the partition tops 30, 1030. It is fixed to the partition tops 30, 1030 at least partially. In some embodiments, the steps (step (6)) of fixing the flats 14, 1014 to the partition tops 30, 1030 are fastened (eg, via snap connectors or clips), sutured, or otherwise. It may further include the step of fixing one or more straps 24 to the partition top 30.

The steps of installing the leg assembly (step (7)) include sliding or loosely holding the leg assembly in an outer loop on a flat surface, snapping or clipping the spring assembly into the base. The step of aligning the leg end cap within the leg anchor of the leg mounting bracket and the step of inserting the pin through the leg anchor and leg end cap until the pin is locked or snapped in place. Can be included. In some embodiments, the end cap is a multi-part end cap comprising a first portion first attached to the leg mounting bracket and a second portion first attached to the leg. is there. These first and second portions are snapped or clipped to each other to secure the legs to the leg mounting brackets. These embodiments allow the legs to be snapped directly to the leg anchors without pins.

The step of completing the assembly of the partition top or base (step (8)) is required only for the partition top having the plurality of components and / or the embodiment having the base having the plurality of components. In these embodiments, the plurality of components snap fit, glue, or connect to form a complete partition top or base.

The step of fixing the flat portion 14 to the base 34 (step (9)) includes the step of riveting the flat portion 14 to the base 34 and the base 34 via a mechanical fastener (snap fit connection, etc.). Can include a combination of a step of attaching to, or a step of riveting and a step of attaching with a mechanical fastener. In some embodiments, the base 34 or part of the base 34 is sewn onto the flat portion 14 of the bag.

Wrapping a golf bag for transportation is to prepare a box, insert an air pocket into the golf bag if necessary, fold the golf bag or golf bag subassembly, golf bag or subassembly And to place all necessary components inside the box, and to close and secure the opening of the box. An air pillow (or pocket) can be inserted into the flat pocket to maintain the shape of the golf bag pocket. For example, in an embodiment having a pocket with a magnetic rim, crushing the golf bag or subassembly can distort the alignment of the pocket lid with the pocket body. By arranging the air pillow inside the golf bag pocket, the original shape and alignment of the pocket can be maintained. In some embodiments, foam, sponge, paper, bubble wrap, or other suitable packaging material can be used in place of the air pillow. Folding a golf bag or subassembly can include folding, flattening, twisting, or otherwise compressing the golf bag or subassembly. The foldable nature of the golf bag and / or subassembly allows the golf bag to be shipped in a lower volume box during the manufacturing phase than if the golf bag were not fully assembled and foldable. To do. The low volume box reduces transportation costs.

A. How to make a tubular snap-fit top collar

Referring to FIGS. 93A-93C, the manufacturing embodiment of the golf bag having the tubular snap-fit collar 210 is at least (1) opened the zipper 225 of the collar 210, (2) extended the elastic portion 222, and the bag flat portion 214. To the desired position on the collar 210, (3) engage the snap connector 224 on the bag flat collar 210 with the snap connector 234 on the partition top 230, (4) close the zipper 225 and close it in the zipper garage. It requires the step of pushing it into 227.

In order for the tubular bag flat collar 210 to fit around the partition top 230, the zipper 225 must be opened to extend the bag flat collar 210. The collar 210 of the flat portion 214 stretches primarily at its upper edge (where the elastic portion 222 is located), which allows the collar 210 to be pulled around the rigid upper partition 230. The ability of the collar 210 to extend also allows the assembler to easily engage the snap connector 224 on the collar 210 of the bag flat portion 214 with the respective snap connector 234 on the partition top 230. When the collar 210 is fixed to the partition top 230 via the snap connectors 224 and 234, the zipper 225 is closed to further hold the bag flat portion 214 in place and prevent it from stretching.

In the current manufacturing process, the golf bag flat portion 214 needs to be riveted to the golf bag partition top 230. This process is time consuming and can pose certain safety hazards. The process of manufacturing and mounting the bag flat portion 214 described herein reduces assembly time and eliminates the safety hazards associated with riveting. In addition, misplaced rivets are permanent, while snap connectors are properly aligned before the assembly process and cannot be misplaced during assembly, reducing the possibility of manufacturing errors. Will be done. Overall, the PPH (parts per hour) of the manufacturing process can be increased by implementing snap-fit fastener collars 210 and partition tops 230.

B. How to make a snap-fit assembly

FIGS. 47-53 show a method of snap-fit assembly of one embodiment of the golf bag 10. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 47-53 is a cart golf bag, but this method is the same as assembling a carry bag or stand bag unless otherwise specified. Also, it should be understood that FIGS. 47-53 show the subassembly 52 which may be similar to the subassembly 42. The subassembly 1052 includes a partition top 37, a base 44, and a partition sleeve 88. The partition top 37 may be the same as the partition tops 30, 1030, 30b, 830a, 830b. The base 44 may be the same as the bases 34 and 900. The partition sleeve 88 may be the same as the partition sleeve 46.

With reference to FIG. 47, the subassembly 1052 is provided in a folded form, which is the form of the subassembly 1052 when shipped for assembly. In the illustrated folded form, the partition top 37 and the base 44 are interconnected by a partition sleeve 88, and the partition top 37 and the base 44 are offset and oriented substantially parallel to each other. Both the partition top 37 and the base 44 have a plurality of snap-fit connectors 194 that connect to the snap-fit connectors 190 on the flat portion 14. In another embodiment of the subassembly 52, such as the subassembly 42 of the stand golf bag 10 shown in FIG. 3, the folded form has a partition top 30 and a base 34 connected by a stay 39, which has a partition top 30 and a base 34 thereof. The top 30 and the base 34 are offset substantially parallel to the stay 39.

The subassembly 1052 is then unfolded or otherwise transitioned to the unfolded form, as shown in FIG. In the illustrated deployment configuration, the partition top 37 is pulled in the direction opposite to the base 44 to deploy the partition sleeve 88. In the unfolded form, the subassembly 1052 is prepared for snap fit attachment with the flat portion 14. In some structures, one or more stays 39 may be inserted into the subassembly 1052 of the flat portion 14 to provide additional rigidity and support to the golf bag 10. In another embodiment of the subassembly 52, such as the subassembly 42 shown in FIG. 3 for the stand golf bag 10, the subassembly 42 has both the partition top 30 and the base 34 (as shown in FIG. 22). ) The partition top 30 and the base 34 are swiveled around the stay hinges 162, 170, respectively, so as to be substantially perpendicular or orthogonal to the stay 39, thereby shifting to the unfolded position. The stand bag subassembly 42 has an additional assembly step prior to snap-fit mounting of the flat portion 14. The leg mounting bracket 32 is mounted to the partition top 30 by a snap-fit connection (shown in FIGS. 2 and 13-15 and described above). The spring 41 is also attached to the base 34 (see FIG. 2). The partition sleeve 46 is attached to the partition top 30 and the base 34 (see FIGS. 2-10). Additional assembly steps for the stand bag subassembly 42 are provided for illustrative purposes, and each step is not limited to the disclosed order.

Next, as shown in FIG. 49, the flat portion 14 is snap-fitted to the partition top portion 37. The flat portion 14 is positioned with the subassembly 1052 in the desired or required orientation (eg, proper positioning of the strap 24 with respect to the partition top 37 and the base 44). Each of the plurality of snap-fit connectors 190 on the flat portion 14 is then arranged to snap-fit engage with each one of the plurality of snap-fit connectors 194 on the partition top 37. In the illustrated embodiment, each male or female snap-fit button 190 engages with the associated female or male snap-fit button 194. The flat portion 14 wraps around the outer periphery of the partition top portion 37 when the snap-fit connectors 190 and 194 are placed in the snap-fit engaged state.

In some embodiments of the subassembly 52, such as the subassembly 42 shown in FIG. 2 for the stand golf bag 10 of FIG. 1, the leg anchor 122 of the leg mounting bracket 32 has an opening in the flat portion 14 ( (Not shown) extends through and is arranged to expose the leg anchor 122 to the outside of the flat portion 14.

Next, as shown in FIGS. 50 to 51, the flat portion 14 is snap-fitted to the base 44. That is, each of the plurality of snap-fit connectors 190 on the flat portion 14 is arranged so as to snap-fit engage with each one of the plurality of snap-fit connectors 194 on the base 44. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the male or female snap-fit buttons 190 engages with the associated female or male snap-fit button 194. The flat portion 14 wraps around the outer circumference of the base 44 when the snap-fit connectors 190 and 194 are placed in the snap-fit engaged state.

When the flat portion 14 is snap-fit connected to the partition top 37 and the base 44, the seam 202 of the flat portion 14 is sealed and the snap-fit connection is completed. As shown in FIG. 52, the seam 202 is sealed by closing the connecting member 206 along the seam edges 203, 204. The connecting member 206 is shown as a single connecting member 206, but in other embodiments, the connecting member 206 has two zippers, a hook-and-loop fastener (VELCRO®), and a tongue that fits within the associated rail. It may be a mounting track with a portion, a snap fitting button, or any other suitable snap fitting fastener or fixing assembly as described above. As mentioned above, the pockets 18 are also removed and / or by any of the aforementioned snap-fit fasteners to allow custom configuration or reconstruction of different pockets 18 sizes, numbers, or positions on the flat surface 14. It may be adjusted. In another embodiment of the subassembly 52, such as the subassembly 42 shown in FIG. 2 for the stand golf bag 10 of FIG. 1, the legs 40 are the respective legs of each end cap 146 and the leg mounting bracket 32. It is attached by snap-fitting and swivel connection with the portion anchor 122. When the leg portion 39 is attached, the spring 41 is connected to the leg portions 40a and b (see FIG. 2), respectively.

After attaching all the components of the subassembly 1052, attaching the flat portion 14 to the subassembly 52, and sealing the seam 202 of the flat portion 14, the golf bag 10 is assembled (shown in FIG. 53).

C. How to make a golf bag with a modular partition assembly

The conventional method of assembling a golf bag first requires attaching a single partition top element to the flat portion of the bag via multiple connecting members such as rivets. Since the partition top is attached to the assembly early in the manufacturing process, the partition top cannot be easily customized at the end of the manufacturing process. Therefore, before the product is manufactured, it is necessary to make predictions about the customer's demand for various partition embodiments. This can lead to inaccurate production volumes and inflexibility in the final product.

Separating the bag divider for a golf bag into two components that together form a modular divider assembly simplifies the manufacture of the golf bag and makes it easy to supply the customer with a customized divider. As seen in FIGS. 94A-100, various embodiments of the cross member portion 850 of the modular partition assembly 830 can be used with the same molded top ring 840. When the golf bag 10 is assembled, the top ring 840 is attached to the flat portion 14 of the golf bag. The wall of the top ring 840 corresponds to the shape of the body of the golf bag 10, and when assembled, extends vertically downward into the flat portion 14 of the golf bag 10. Next, the woven partition sleeve 46 is attached to the crossing member portion 850. The woven partition is passed through the top ring 840, and the crossing member portion 850 is inserted into and fixed to the top ring 840. In some embodiments, the cross member portion 850 is snap-fitted to the top ring 840. In another embodiment, the cross member portion 850 is glued to the top ring 840 using an adhesive or an adhesive such as epoxy. Finally, the lower end of the partition sleeve 46 is fixed to the base of the golf bag 10. Since the insertion of the cross member portion 850 into the top ring 840 is one of the final assembly steps of this embodiment of the golf bag, the process of providing the customer with the only partition is easily incorporated into the golf bag manufacturing process. Is done.

D. How to make a golf bag with a two-piece base assembly

Manufacture of golf bags 10, 1010 having a two-piece base assembly 900 requires at least first and second manufacturing steps. The first step is to provide a bag flat portion, one or more stays 39, a partition top 30, a partition sleeve 46, a base assembly 900, and any other necessary components for the golf bags 10, 1010. Including. During part of the first stage, the bag flat portion engages with the upper end 911 of the ring portion 910. The base assembly 900 provides access to the interior of the flat portion through the opening at the bottom of the ring portion 910. This allows easy insertion of one or more stays, as opposed to connecting one or more stays to the base by entering through the top of the golf bags 10, 1010. The ring portion 910 may be connected to the flat portion 14 via sutures, pins, buttons, clamps, zippers, or any other suitable mechanism. The partition sleeve 46 is connected to the partition tops 30, 1030 and the base 920. The open configuration of the base assembly 900 at this stage allows easy access to both the partition sleeve 46 and the base portion 920. This speeds up and simplifies manufacturing. For golf bags that do not have a two-piece base assembly, attaching the divider sleeve 46 to the bases 34 and 1034 requires reaching through the top of the golf bags 10 and 1010, which is cumbersome and slow. The base portion 920 of the base assembly 900 is detached from the ring portion 910 of the base assembly 900 at the end of the first stage.

The second manufacturing step partially includes the step of connecting one or more stays 39 to the ring portion 910 and the step of attaching the base portion 920 to the ring portion 910. To assemble the base assembly 900, slot 973 of the base portion 920 is aligned with the snap tab 930 of the ring portion 910. The base portion 920 is then pushed up into the ring portion 910. The lower end 912 of the ring portion 910 fits inside (or next to, in some embodiments) the vertical lip 972 of the base portion 920. Slot 973 receives the protruding surface 932 of the snap tab 930 of the ring portion 910.

In a cart bag embodiment as shown in FIGS. 91 and 92, when the base portion 920 is attached to the ring portion 910, the plurality of stay ports 940 of the ring portion 910 are inside the plurality of port housings 942 of the base portion 920. Fit. The base assembly 900 in the assembled position is shown in FIG. The two-piece base assembly 900 allows for more efficient assembly of golf bags 10, 1010 as compared to systems with one-piece bases 34 and 1034.

V. Assembly method A. Subassembly method

Shown below is a method of assembling a golf bag that includes a subassembly 42 (including a partition top 30, a partition sleeve 46, and a base 34). The method of assembling the subassembly 42 includes providing the base 34 and connecting the partition sleeve 46 to the base 34 by a plurality of connecting members 50. The plurality of connecting members 50 connected to the partition sleeve 46 are received in the respective slots 62 of the base 34. Each of the connecting members 50 wraps around a portion of the base 34 and forms a self-fastening engagement by connecting the first portion 66 of the connecting member 50 to the second portion 70 of the connecting member 50. Next, the partition sleeve 46 is coupled to the partition top 30 at the end of the partition sleeve 46 on the opposite side of the connecting member 50. The partition sleeve 46 comprises a plurality of flaps 90 that wrap around a portion of the partition top 30 and form a self-fastening engagement by connecting a first self-fastening portion 98 to a second self-fastening portion 102. Including.

The assembly process further includes assembling the stand assembly 26. The stand assembly 26 comprises a leg mounting bracket, two legs, a spring, a bracket connecting the leg to the spring, and any other necessary connecting member such as a hinge or pin. The first and second spring members 41a and 41b are coupled to the first and second leg portions 40a and 40b via a bracket such as the bracket 600. The legs 40a and 40b are inserted through the respective leg receiving channels 604 of each bracket 600. The leg can be secured within the leg receiving channel 604 by an adhesive, a press-fit mechanism, or any other suitable anchoring means. Next, a part of each spring member 41a, 41b is inserted through each spring receiving channel 608 of each bracket 600. In some embodiments, the spring members 41a, 41b are partially held within the spring receiving channel 608 by the mechanical resistance of the spring to lateral extension of the spring members 41a, 41b. For example, the spring members 41a, 41b are stretched so that the ends of the spring members 41a, 41b are inserted inward through the spring receiving channel 608, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7. In some embodiments, after each spring member is inserted through each spring receiving channel 608, a rubber stopper (not shown) is glued to the ends of the spring members 41a, 41b.

The stand assembly 26 can be manufactured using any of the leg brackets and / or leg connection systems described above. For example, the stand assembly 26 can be provided as a leg self-assembling system 502 having legs 40a, 40b connected to the leg mounting bracket 32 via a pin 516. When the legs 41a and 41b are connected to the leg mounting bracket, the stand assembly 26 is completed.

After the subassembly 42 and stand assembly 26 are completed, the stays are assembled. The stay 39 is assembled by providing a top stay hinge 162 and a base stay hinge 170 on its main shaft and connecting them. The upper end of the stay shaft is inserted into the second arm 164 of the top stay hinge 162, and the stay shaft is adhered to the top stay hinge 162. The lower end of the stay shaft is inserted into the second arm 172 of the base stay hinge 170, and the stay shaft is adhered to the base stay hinge 170.

Once the subassembly 42 and stand assembly 26 are manufactured, the golf bag 10 can be manufactured or assembled utilizing the subassembly 42. The subassembly 42 is inserted into the tubular flat portion 14 so that the base 34 is inserted first. Once inserted, the base 34 of the subassembly 42 is secured to the flat portion 14 by rivets around the base 34. The stay 39 is inserted through a slit (not shown) in the flat portion 14. The stay 39 is inserted into the partition top 30 at the first end and into the base 34 at the second opposite end. The stay 39 can be received in each stay receiving slot provided in the partition top 30 and the base 34. Next, the partition top 30 of the subassembly 42 is fixed to the flat portion 14 by riveting around the partition top 30. The partition top 30 can be fixed to the flat portion 14 before inserting the stay 39, but the stay 39 is inserted first to provide rigidity to the bag and help align the partition top 30 with the flat portion 14. It is preferable to do so. Next, the stand assembly 26 is inserted into a part of the flat portion 14. A portion of the stand assembly 26 containing the pivots for the legs 40a, b (also known as the leg mounting bracket 32) is coupled to the partition top 30 by, for example, rivets or other suitable connecting members. .. The stay 39 is connected to the base 34 by inserting the first arm 171 of the base stay hinge 170 into the channel 174 of the base 34 and accepting the base stay hinge 170. In the completed golf bag, the urging portion 173 of the stay hinge 170 opens toward the center of the golf bag and the stay 39 bends towards the stand assembly 26 located on the side of the bag opposite the base-stay connection. Make it possible. Finally, the spring 41 connected to each of the legs 40a and 40b is connected to the base 34, for example, by being inserted into the spring receiving slot of the base 34.

The subassembly 42, the flat portion 14, and the stand assembly 26 can be folded for space-efficient transportation. This allows this embodiment of the assembly process to be carried out cost-effectively in two different locations and in two stages: (1) in the first location, subassembly 42, flat. To provide the portion 14, and the stand assembly 26, and (2) to connect the subassembly 42, the flat portion 14, and the stand assembly 26 at a second location.

B. Partition top assembly method

A method of assembling a golf bag similar to the above method is presented below, except that the subassembly includes only the partition top and partition sleeve. First, a subassembly is formed, the base is connected to the flat portion, a stay is provided, and a stand assembly is provided. The partition sleeve of the subassembly is connected to the partition top via a self-fastening connecting member or a suture connecting member. The partition sleeve of the subassembly further comprises an elastic member sewn to the lower end of the partition sleeve. The base is then riveted or sewn onto the flat surface. The stay and stand assembly is provided in the same manner as the stay and stand assembly in the above example.

After these steps, the subassembly, flats and base, and stand assembly can be shipped to a second location in a folded configuration. In the second location, (1) the subassembly is inserted and connected to the flat section, (2) the stay is connected to the partition top and base, and (3) the stand assembly is attached to the bag.

The subassembly 42 is inserted downward into the flat portion 14 with the partition sleeve 46 first. When the subassembly 42 is connected to the base 30 and the flat portion 14, the elastic member of the partition sleeve 46 is sewn to the portion of the bag flat portion 14 adjacent to the bottom end of the flat portion 14. The elastic strap can secure the sleeve to the lower part of the flat portion 14 without the material of the sleeve 46 extending to the lower part of the golf bag 10. The sleeves can be put together when the bag is placed on the unfolded legs. By sewing the partition sleeve 46 to the bag flat portion 14 via the elastic strap, the step of inserting the fastener (or elastic band) through the slot of the base 30 is eliminated.

In embodiments with one or more shoulder straps 24, one or more straps 24 are threaded through the openings in the flat portion 14 and clipped or sewn to the subassembly 42. The flat portion 14 is connected to the partition top 30 of the subassembly 42 by a self-fastening member extending downward beyond the edge of the partition top 30. Next, the stay 39 is inserted into the flat portion 14. The top stay hinge 162 of the stay 39 is adhered or snap-fitted to the partition top 30. The base stay hinge 170 is glued or snap-fitted to the base 34.

The stand assembly 42 is connected to the golf bag 10 at the partition top 30 by the leg bracket 32 of the stand assembly 42, and is connected to the base 34 by the spring 41 of the stand assembly. The leg bracket 32 of the stand assembly 42 is riveted to the partition top 30. In some embodiments, the material of the flat portion 14 is inserted between the leg bracket 32 and the partition top 30. After the leg bracket 32 is riveted to the partition top 30, the hook connector 508 at the lower end of the spring 41 is snap-fitted or clipped to the base 34. Finally, the assembled bag 10 is packaged and shipped as described above.

C. Assembly at the contact point

The following is a method for assembling a golf bag including two manufacturing stages. The first step partially comprises providing a subassembly 42 having a partition top 30, a partition sleeve 46, and a leg mounting bracket 32a. Manufacture of the subassembly 42 includes (1) providing a partition top, (2) connecting the partition sleeve 46 to the partition top by using a sewn or self-fastening connecting member, and (3) legs. Includes riveting the mounting bracket to the top of the partition. During the first stage, a two-piece snap-coupled base 900 having a bag flat portion, a stand assembly, a stay, and a ring portion 910 and a base portion 920 is manufactured as described above. The flat portion of the bag was engaged with the upper end 911 of the ring portion 910. The base assembly 900 provides access to the interior of the flat portion through the opening at the bottom of the ring portion 910. The ring portion 910 may be connected to the flat portion via sutures, pins, buttons, clamps, zippers, or any other suitable mechanism. The divider sleeve is connected to the top collar and base 920. The open configuration of the base assembly 900 at this stage allows easy access to both the partition sleeve and the base portion 920, which speeds up and simplifies manufacturing. For golf bags that do not have a two-piece base assembly, the partition sleeve must be reached through the top of the golf bag to attach to the base, which is cumbersome and slow. The base portion 920 of the base assembly 900 is detached from the ring portion 910 of the base assembly 900 at the end of the first stage.

To provide a stand assembly, first and second spring members, two legs, two leg end caps, two pins, two leg receiving brackets, and optionally alignment aids. It is necessary to provide a spring that has. In the first manufacturing stage, the two legs are inserted into the leg receiving brackets and the first and second spring members of the springs are attached to the respective brackets. The leg end cap is press-fitted or glued to the top of the leg. In embodiments with alignment aids, alignment aids are placed between the upper sections of the legs to temporarily hold the legs apart. The pins are provided as part of the stand assembly package, but remain detached at this stage. Also, during the first manufacturing step, the ring portion of the base is sewn to the flat portion of the bag or otherwise secured. At the end of the first manufacturing phase, the partition sleeve 46, the partition top, and the leg mounting bracket form a subassembly, and the ring portion of the base is integrated with the bag flat.

At the beginning of the second manufacturing or assembly stage, the subassembly is first inserted into the bag flat with the sleeve end. In embodiments with shoulder straps, the shoulder straps are passed through the openings in the flats and attached to the subassembly via fasteners such as snap connectors. The partition sleeve connecting member with the snap fastener or clip is then fixed to the corresponding connecting member. These connecting members are mounted at the bottom of the flat portion near the ring portion of the base. The spring of the stand assembly is inserted through a loop in the flat section and snapped to a receiving channel on the inner wall of the base ring. In some embodiments designed for self-assembly, the spring of the stand assembly is inserted through a loop in the flat section but is not snap-fitted into the receiving channel. The bag can be shipped to consumers in a volumetrically efficient folding form. The leg end caps are aligned with the leg mounting brackets, and the pins of the stand assembly are inserted through the leg mounting brackets and the leg end caps to rotatably connect the legs to the golf bag subassembly. The pins are snap-fitted in place for easy assembly. As mentioned above, in the self-assembling embodiment, the step of aligning the legs and connecting the legs to the mounting bracket via pins was eliminated from the second manufacturing stage and the consumer received the product. Left to do when.

The upper end of the flat portion includes a self-fastening connecting member. The second manufacturing step further comprises wrapping these connecting members over the edge of the partition apex. This process fixes the flat part to the top of the partition. The stay is then inserted into the flat portion 14, where it is snap-fitted to the partition top 30 at the first end and to the base 34 at the second opposite end. Connecting the stay 39 to the partition top 30 and the base 34 is performed in the same manner as described above for the subassembly method. Finally, snap the base part of the base to the ring part to complete the bag. Waiting to snap onto the base until the end of the manufacturing process provides easy access to the inside of the tubular flat during most of the process. This can increase the speed and ease of assembly. For example, the opening of the base ring allows the assembler to quickly reach the lower end of the stay in order to insert the stay into the base ring.

As mentioned above, this exemplary manufacturing process can be modified to manufacture self-assembled golf bags. Self-assembled golf bags are shipped to consumers in a folded form to reduce shipping costs. Includes instructions for instructing the consumer on how to attach the stand assembly to the golf bag to complete the golf bag.

D. Modular partition top assembly

One embodiment of the method of assembling a golf bag is similar to the method of assembling at the contact points described above, except that the golf bag has some structural differences: (1) The partition top is top. Includes a modular partition assembly 830 with a ring 840 and a cross member portion 850. (2) The partition top and the leg mounting bracket are integrally molded. These structural differences change the assembly method.

The method of assembling a golf bag involves two manufacturing stages. The first step partially involves providing subassemblies. Manufacture of subassemblies includes (1) molding the top ring 840 of the modular partition assembly 830 including the integrated leg mounting bracket, (2) molding the cross member portion 850 separately, and (3). ) The partition sleeve 46 is coupled to the top ring 840 of the modular partition assembly 830. By integrally molding the leg mounting bracket with the top ring 840 of the partition assembly 830, the manufacturing process of riveting the leg mounting bracket to the top ring 840 is omitted and the manufacturing time is shortened. Further, by integrally molding the top ring 840 and the leg mounting bracket from one material, the entire molded part can be formed from a lightweight material. The first step further comprises providing a two-piece snap-join base assembly 900 with a bag flat portion, stays, ring portion 910 and base portion 920, and a stand assembly. The flat portion of the bag is attached to the ring portion 910 in the same manner as the assembly method at the contact point described above. The stand assembly is configured by a method similar to the above-mentioned assembly method at the contact point.

The second manufacturing step is the same as the second manufacturing step of the assembly method at the contact point described above. Further, at the end of the second manufacturing phase, the cross member portion 850 of the modular top assembly 830 is inserted into the top ring 840 of the modular top assembly 830. In some embodiments of this exemplary method, the final step in the process involves placing the cross member cover 878 over the cross member portion 850.

E. Integrally molded leg mounting bracket

Described below is another method of assembling a golf bag. This is similar to the assembly in the contact point embodiment of this method, except that the leg mounting bracket is integrally molded with the partition top. The integral molding of the leg mounting bracket and the partition top eliminates the step of riveting to the leg mounting bracket, reducing time and reducing the number of tools required for assembly.

F. Self-assembling method from golf bag kit

FIG. 76 shows an example of a self-assembling method of the golf bag 700 by the self-assembling system 500. This method involves a series of assembly steps performed by the recipient. These steps are shown in flow diagram format. It should be understood that the method steps are provided as an example and the method 700 can include fewer steps than all of the disclosed steps. Method 700 begins at step 702, where the recipient receives the self-assembling kit 400. The self-assembling kit 400 includes a foldable golf bag 10 and a self-assembling system 500. The self-assembling kit 400 can be delivered to the recipient by box 404.

Next, in step 704, the recipient removes the golf bag 10 (in the folded form) and the self-assembly system 500 from the self-assembly kit 400. For example, the recipient removes the golf bag 10 from the box 404. The recipient can also point the sign 420 (or instructions for assembly) in a readable orientation.

In step 706, the recipient swivels the partition top 30 around the stay 39 (by the top stay hinge 162) and the base 34 around the stay 39 (by the base stay hinge 170). As a result, the golf bag 10 is converted from the folded state to the unfolded state.

In step 708, the recipient assembles the spring self-assembly system 501 into the golf bag 10. More specifically, the recipient attaches the spring connector 504 (eg, by placing the base engaging hook 508 within the opening 520 and at the same time the channel defined by the hook 508 receives the member 524). Connect to base 34.

Next, in step 710, the recipient assembles the leg self-assembly system 502 to the golf bag 10.

For example, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 61-66, the recipient removes each pin 516 from their respective end caps 528a, b (or alignment aid 512a). The recipient then aligns each end cap 528a, 528b with the respective mounting channels 552a, 552b of the mounting bracket 32. This alignment is facilitated (or rationalized) by the alignment aids 512 and 512a. Once aligned, the recipient inserts each pin 516 through opposite openings (not shown) on the sides of channels 552a, b and pin openings 532 through end caps 528a, b. The recipient then removes the alignment aids a and 512a from the legs 40a and b.

Alternatively, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 68-72, the recipient attaches the second component 527 (attached to each leg 40a, b) of the multi-part end cap 564 (attached to each attachment channel 552a, respectively). It connects to each first component 568 (attached to the mounting bracket 32 in b). The first and second parts 568, 572 are snap-fitted together by the snap-fit assembly 584 to connect the legs 40a, b to the mounting bracket 32.

In step 712, the recipient buckles the strap 556 around a portion of the spring 41 to restrain the legs 40a, b with the spring 41. In step 714, the process is complete and the recipient completes assembling the golf bag 10.

A method of making a foldable golf bag 10 comprises inserting the subassembly 42 into the flat portion 14 so that the base 34 is first inserted. When inserted, the subassembly 42 is fixed to the flat portion 14. The stay 39 is inserted through a slit (not shown) in the flat portion 14. The stay 39 is inserted into the partition top 30 at the first end and into the base 34 at the second opposite end. The partition top 30 and the base 34 are then swiveled around the stay 39 in a folded form. The folded form of the golf bag 10 is then placed in the shipping box 404 along with a portion of the stand assembly 26 for the user's self-assembly. Instructions for self-assembly are included in the shipping box and, more specifically, printed on the shipping box.

The golf bag 10 incorporating the snap-fit components disclosed herein offers advantages over golf bags known in the art. Among them, by utilizing snap-fit components, manufacturers offer less mechanical and equipment overhead for golf bag assembly. In addition, the shipping volume of snap-fit components is reduced by approximately 30% to 50%, providing more efficient use of package volume during shipping and limiting excessive shipping costs due to oversized or bulky components. In addition, snap-fit components can be assembled by the manufacturer at the assembly facility, or the components can be shipped directly to the end user for assembly. In addition, snap-fit components provide replaceable components, allowing replacement of worn components and customization by the manufacturer or end user.

The golf bag self-assembly kit 400, which incorporates the foldable golf bag 10 and the self-assembly system 500, offers advantages over golf bags known in the art. Among them, the foldable golf bag has a smaller shipping box size than the pre-assembled golf bag. This leads to a reduction in shipping costs, especially based on the size or volume of the box. In addition, less material is used to manufacture the shipping box, reducing manufacturing costs. Moreover, by transferring the assembly of the golf bag to the recipient, the manufacturer does not incur these additional assembly costs. The foldable golf bag and self-assembling system provide easy assembly by the recipient based on clear assembly instructions and easily aligned and assembled components. These and other advantages may be realized from one or more embodiments of the golf bag, golf bag self-assembly kit, and golf bag self-assembly system disclosed herein.

VI. shipment

The subassemblies 42, 1042 may be assembled at one manufacturing site and shipped to another manufacturing site. Subassemblies 42, 1042 can instead be shipped to the recipient as a self-assembling kit with other required components. Typically, the subassemblies 42, 1042 are foldable, eliminating the need for fully assembled transport. This reduces the volume of the box required for transportation due to the reduction in "bulk" of unassembled parts.

The volume required to transport the subassembly and any other components required to complete the golf bag is significantly smaller than the volume required to transport the fully assembled golf bag. The prior art golf bag having the same size as the unfolded or actuated golf bag 10,1010 is transported in a box having a volume of about 4600-4700 cubic inches (75,380 cc-77,019 cc). In the folded form, the golf bags 10,1010 are transported in a box having a volume of about 2500-3500 cubic inches (40,968 cc to 57,355 cc). The volume required to transport the foldable golf bags 10, 1010 is 40% to 50%, 50% of the volume required to transport the golf bag without the features of the subassembly described above. It can be between 60%, 60% and 70%, and 70% and 80%. In one comparative study, non-subassembled golf bags are transported in a box with a volume of 4655 cubic inches (76,229 cc). Golf bags 10, 1010 are shipped in a box having a volume of 3085 cubic inches (50,635 cc). In this study, the foldable golf bag 10 with subassemblies required a shipping volume that was 66% of the shipping volume required for non-subassembled golf bags.

The reduction in transport volume can result in a 10% to 50% reduction in transport costs for the folded golf bags 10,1010. For example, shipping costs can be reduced by 10% to 20%, 20% to 30%, 30% to 40%, or 40% to 50%. In one example, the self-assembling system for the carry bag 10 can be shipped to the recipient at a cost 20% to 30% lower than the cost of shipping the fully assembled carry bag 10 of the same size. According to one comparative study, the carry bag self-assembly system can be shipped to the recipient at a cost 25% lower than the cost of shipping the fully assembled carry bag 10.

The supplier also ships the components and / or subassemblies 42, 1042 of the foldable golf bags 10, 1010 in separate boxes for efficient assembly lines at both the first and second manufacturing sites. The process can be facilitated. Shipments of parts and / or subassemblies 42, 1042 are reduced by a similar percentage regardless of how the parts are packed for shipment. The method in which the final assembly process is completed at the second manufacturing site also avoids tariffs.

One of the many advantages of the design of the collapsible subassemblies 42, 1042 is that it maintains shipping costs similar to the cost of shipping unassembled components between the first and second sites. However, most of the assembly process can be completed at the first manufacturing site. The reduction in package volume of the foldable subassemblies 42, 1042 on the unfolded golf bag also reduces the storage space required at the manufacturing site. Reducing the storage space required to secure inventory reduces overhead costs for suppliers.

VII. Time and cost benefits

Snap-fit golf bags 10, 1010 simplify manufacturing, which reduces manufacturing time and manual labor costs. Snap-fit golf bags 10,1010 reduce the need for riveting, stitching components together and / or tools and equipment. Time savings are designed for golf bags 10, 1010 via snap-fit connections. The snap-fit connections described above allow the assembler to complete the manufacturing process more efficiently and quickly, which increases the speed of parts per hour (PPH) manufacturing. Snap-fit connections and self-fasteners eliminate, at least in part, mechanical and labor-intensive tasks such as riveting or sewing. This allows the snap-fit golf bag to be manufactured at a lower overhead cost.

The cart bag two-piece base assembly 1900 has a PPH production rate 20% to 30% faster than the PPH rate for producing a prior art cart bag having a one-piece base. In one embodiment of the assembly process, a particular assembly step requires the assembler to reach the flat portion of the golf bag from the base. Because of these steps, when manufacturing a golf bag with a one-piece base, the assembler puts the base on the flat part because once the flat part is attached to the base, the inside of the golf bag is not easily accessible. You have to wait near the end of the manufacturing process to fix it in. Alternatively, the one-piece base can be sewn onto the flat portion at the first manufacturing site. This limits the inconvenience of reaching through the pocket or top of the bag to the assembler at the second manufacturing site in order to complete a particular assembly step. The base assembly 1900 allows the assembler to conveniently access the inside of the golf bag 1010 during the second manufacturing phase. This reduces the required manufacturing time.

In one comparative study, a cart bag with a one-piece base was compared to a cart bag 1010 with a two-piece snap-on base assembly disclosed herein. Assembly of the cart bag 1010 with the two-piece snap-on base was 20% to 30% faster than assembly of the cart bag with the one-piece base, as the two-piece snap base can be connected faster and flatter. In addition, the two-piece snap base can be connected to the flat section without the use of riveting. In one example, assembling the cart bag 1010 with a two-piece snap base was 24% faster than assembling a cart bag with a one-piece base.

The two-piece base assemblies 900, 1900 allow for more efficient assembly of golf bags 10,1010 as compared to systems with one-piece bases 34, 1034. Ring portions 910, 1910 may be coupled to the flat portion via snap-fit connections, stitches, pins, buttons, clamps, zippers, or any other suitable mechanism. Base assemblies 900, 1900 provide access to the interior of the flat portion 14 through openings in the bottom of ring portions 910, 1910. This allows for an easier bonding process, as opposed to bonding the flat portions 14, 1014 to the bases 34 and 1034 by entering through the top of the golf bags 10, 1010. The coupling of the split sleeve 46 to the bases 920, 1920 can be completed prior to the coupling of the bases 920, 1920 to the ring portions 910, 1910. This provides easy access to the interior of the base portions 910, 1910, as opposed to attaching the partition sleeve 46 to the base portions 920, 1920 by entering through the top of the golf bags 10, 1010. , Allows for easier manufacturing process.

Another advantage of the golf bags 10, 1010 described herein is the time and cost savings from the designed customization features of the golf bag. For example, removable pockets reduce the delivery time of golf bags ordered with a logo on the pockets, as described above in the removable pockets section. For example, a modular (snap-fit) partition top allows customization of the number of partition top openings and / or the color of the partition top. For golf bags with single-part riveted partition tops, determine the style of partition tops required by the recipient prior to bag assembly for the permanent rivets used to secure the partition tops. Must. However, if the golf bags 10 and 1010 are configured to have the modular dividers described above, the golf bags 10 and 1010 are assembled into subassemblies 42, 1042 or a nearly complete golf bag before the desired style is known. be able to. With modular dividers, removable pockets, and other customization features, the supplier manufactures an inventory of partially assembled bags that can be quickly customized when a customer's order is received. can do.

The engineered customization function can reduce the turnover time (between the customer's order and the golf bag shipment) by about 40% to 50%, 50% to 60%, or 60% to 70%. In some features, the rotation time is reduced from 90-180 days to 30-45 days. Reducing the time between a customer's order and shipping the golf bag to the recipient increases customer satisfaction.

Manufacturing costs and time can also be reduced by providing the recipient with golf bags 10, 1010 as a self-assembling kit. For example, the carry bag 10 self-assembly kit 400 described in detail below requires the recipient to install the stand assembly 500, which allows the supplier's bag manufacturing time to be approximately 30-60 seconds per carry bag 10. It will be shortened. This reduction in manufacturing time saves the supplier about 380-400 hours (47.5-50 days) of working time per year. In addition, separating the stand assembly 500 from the rest of the carry bag 10 for transport reduces the required box volume and transport costs, as described above.

Clause [Claim 1]
A subassembly for a golf bag
The subassembly
With the top of the partition
With the base
A plurality of stays including a first stay, a second stay, and a main stay having a first end portion opposite to the second end portion.
With a top hinge connected to the first end of the main stay,
With the base hinge connected to the second end of the main stay,
With
The main stay is hinged to the partition top by the top hinge.
The stay is a subassembly that is hinged to the base by the base hinge.
[Clause 2]
The subassembly according to Clause 1, wherein the subassembly is configured to be assembled into a cart-type golf bag.
[Clause 3]
The subassembly according to Clause 1, wherein the subassembly is foldable when both the first and second stays are disengaged from the partition top.
[Clause 4]
The subassembly according to clause 1, wherein the subassembly is foldable when both the first and second stays are disengaged from the base.
[Clause 5]
The subassembly according to Clause 1, wherein the main stay has rigidity from the first end to the second end.
[Clause 6]
The partition top is configured to rotate with respect to the main stay.
The subassembly according to clause 1, wherein the base is configured to swivel relative to the stay.
[Clause 7]
The subassembly according to Clause 1, further comprising a partition top and a partition sleeve connected to the base.
[Clause 8]
The base includes a base stay receiving channel, a first base stay hub, and a second base stay hub.
The base stay receiving channel is configured to engage the base hinge connected to the main stay.
The first base stay hub is configured to engage with the first stay.
The second base stay hub is configured to engage the second stay.
The subassembly described in Clause 1.
[Clause 9]
The partition top comprises a top stay receiving channel, a first top stay hub, and a second top stay hub.
The top stay receiving channel is configured to engage the top hinge connected to the main stay.
The first top stay hub is configured to engage the first stay.
The subassembly according to clause 1, wherein the second top stay hub is configured to engage the second stay.
[Clause 10]
The base further comprises an outer ring and
The subassembly according to Clause 8, wherein the base stay receiving channel is located on the inner surface of the outer ring.
[Clause 11]
The base further comprises an outer ring and
The subassembly according to Clause 8, wherein the first stay hub and the second stay hub are located on the outer surface of the outer ring.
[Clause 12]
The partition top is further provided with an outer ring.
The subassembly according to Clause 9, wherein the top stay receiving channel is located on the inner surface of the outer ring.
[Clause 13]
The partition top is further provided with an outer ring.
The subassembly according to Clause 9, wherein the first top stay hub and the second top stay hub are located on the outer surface of the outer ring.
[Clause 14]
A golf bag with a flat portion and a subassembly.
The subassembly
With the top of the partition
With the base
A plurality of stays including a first stay, a second stay, and a main stay having a first end portion opposite to the second end portion.
With a top hinge connected to the first end of the main stay,
A base hinge connected to the second end of the main stay, the main stay is hinged to the partition top by the top hinge, and the stay is hinged to the base by the base hinge. With the base hinge
Have and
A golf bag, wherein the flat portion is configured to engage with a subassembly to form a golf bag.
[Clause 15]
The golf bag according to Article 14, wherein the golf bag is a cart-type golf bag.
[Clause 16]
The golf bag according to Article 14, wherein the main stay has rigidity from the first end portion to the second end portion.
[Clause 17]
The partition top is configured to rotate with respect to the main stay.
The golf bag according to clause 14, wherein the base is configured to swivel relative to the stay.
[Clause 18]
The golf bag according to Clause 14, further comprising a partition top and a partition sleeve connected to the base.
[Clause 19]
The base includes a base stay receiving channel, a first base stay hub, and a second base stay hub.
The base stay receiving channel is configured to engage the base hinge connected to the main stay.
The first base stay hub is configured to engage with the first stay.
The second base stay hub is configured to engage the second stay.
The golf bag described in Clause 14.
[Clause 20]
The partition top comprises a top stay receiving channel, a first top stay hub, and a second top stay hub.
The top stay receiving channel is configured to engage the top hinge connected to the main stay.
The first top stay hub is configured to engage the first stay.
The second top stay hub is configured to engage the second stay.
The golf bag described in Clause 14.

Claims (20)

A subassembly for a golf bag
The subassembly
With the top of the partition
With the base
A plurality of stays including a first stay, a second stay, and a main stay having a first end portion opposite to the second end portion.
With a top hinge connected to the first end of the main stay,
With the base hinge connected to the second end of the main stay,
With
The main stay is hinged to the partition top by the top hinge.
The stay is a subassembly that is hinged to the base by the base hinge. The subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the subassembly is configured to be assembled into a cart-type golf bag. The subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the subassembly is foldable when both the first and second stays are disengaged from the partition top. The subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the subassembly is foldable when both the first and second stays are disengaged from the base. The subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the main stay has rigidity from the first end portion to the second end portion. The partition top is configured to rotate with respect to the main stay.
The subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the base is configured to rotate relative to the stay. The subassembly according to claim 1, further comprising a partition top and a partition sleeve connected to the base. The base includes a base stay receiving channel, a first base stay hub, and a second base stay hub.
The base stay receiving channel is configured to engage the base hinge connected to the main stay.
The first base stay hub is configured to engage with the first stay.
The subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the second base stay hub is configured to engage the second stay. The partition top comprises a top stay receiving channel, a first top stay hub, and a second top stay hub.
The top stay receiving channel is configured to engage the top hinge connected to the main stay.
The first top stay hub is configured to engage the first stay.
The subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the second top stay hub is configured to engage the second stay. The base further comprises an outer ring and
The subassembly according to claim 8, wherein the base stay receiving channel is arranged on the inner surface of the outer ring. The base further comprises an outer ring and
The subassembly according to claim 8, wherein the first stay hub and the second stay hub are arranged on the outer surface of the outer ring. The partition top is further provided with an outer ring.
The subassembly according to claim 9, wherein the top stay receiving channel is located on the inner surface of the outer ring. The partition top is further provided with an outer ring.
The subassembly according to claim 9, wherein the first top stay hub and the second top stay hub are arranged on the outer surface of the outer ring. A golf bag with a flat portion and a subassembly.
The subassembly
With the top of the partition
With the base
A plurality of stays including a first stay, a second stay, and a main stay having a first end portion opposite to the second end portion.
With a top hinge connected to the first end of the main stay,
A base hinge connected to the second end of the main stay, the main stay is hinged to the partition top by the top hinge, and the stay is hinged to the base by the base hinge. With the base hinge
Have and
A golf bag, wherein the flat portion is configured to engage with a subassembly to form a golf bag. The golf bag according to claim 14, wherein the golf bag is a cart-type golf bag. The golf bag according to claim 14, wherein the main stay has rigidity from the first end portion to the second end portion. The partition top is configured to rotate with respect to the main stay.
The golf bag according to claim 14, wherein the base is configured to rotate with respect to the stay. 14. The golf bag of claim 14, further comprising a partition top and a partition sleeve connected to the base. The base includes a base stay receiving channel, a first base stay hub, and a second base stay hub.
The base stay receiving channel is configured to engage the base hinge connected to the main stay.
The first base stay hub is configured to engage with the first stay.
The golf bag according to claim 14, wherein the second base stay hub is configured to engage with the second stay. The partition top comprises a top stay receiving channel, a first top stay hub, and a second top stay hub.
The top stay receiving channel is configured to engage the top hinge connected to the main stay.
The first top stay hub is configured to engage the first stay.
The golf bag according to claim 14, wherein the second top stay hub is configured to engage the second stay.

Images