US20110309121A1

US20110309121A1 - Infant Care System having a Primary Bag Assembly

Info

Publication number: US20110309121A1
Application number: US12/818,918
Authority: US
Inventors: Christopher P. Dooley; Loren Taylor
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Taylored Concepts LLC; Product Spring LLC
Priority date: 2010-06-18
Filing date: 2010-06-18
Publication date: 2011-12-22

Abstract

An adaptable bag system for infant care is presented. The infant care system has a primary bag assembly and a plurality of detachable bag holders that are detachably securable to the primary bag assembly. The primary bag assembly includes a diaper bag, multiple storage pockets, multiple clicking posts for attaching accessories, and a foldable flap for overlapping and covering the diaper bag. The plurality of detachable bag holders are for holding various baby articles, and each of the said bag holders have a releasable latch for releasable attachment to the clicking posts. The plurality of detachable bag holders could include bottle holders, feeding accessories holders, pacifier holders, food bags, cosmetics bags, small purses/money holders, waterproof bags, clothes bags, cooler bags, wipes holders, storage bags, changing pads, bag top flap, key chains, credit card holders, mat or blanket holders, and cell phone and/or personal digital assistant (PDA) cases.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

None.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

None.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The invention generally relates to an infant care system having a primary bag assembly and a plurality of detachable bag holders that are detachably securable to the primary bag assembly. Specifically, the primary bag assembly includes a diaper bag, multiple storage pockets, multiple clicking posts for attaching bag holders for holding accessories, and a foldable flap for overlapping and covering the diaper bag. The plurality of detachable bag holders could include bottle holders, feeding accessories holders, pacifier holders, food bags, cosmetics bags, small purses/money holders, waterproof bags, clothes bags, cooler bags, wipes holders, storage bags, changing pads, bag top flap, key chains, credit card holders, mat or blanket holders, and cell phone and/or personal digital assistant (PDA) cases.
2. Background
Parents are always on the go and need to be more organized than ever before when caring for their babies. Changing tables in public restrooms, fast care in the car, and organizing for day care, are all the norms of today's baby care. Parents are always looking for the latest way to maximize care, convenience, and quickness.
There are some days when a parent needs to pack an extra bottle or an extra snack. If a parent goes out for a short shopping trip, one packs differently than for a long drive, or for other chores.
In addition, as a baby grows, the baby has different needs for bottles, food, and diapers, so that a normal diaper bag with pockets does not meet the need of a parent and baby.
The related arts do not provide an adaptable and configurable infant bag system which provides the flexibility required to hold, store, and transport a variety of items otherwise required for the care of an infant during various activities engaged in by active families.
Accordingly, what is required is an updated infant care system that is portable, changeable, easy to use, and convenient.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the invention is to provide an infant care system and diaper bag which is durable, comfortable, and stylish, and provides a great deal of organization for all of the accessories and items required for the care of an infant.
Another object of the invention is to provide an infant care system that is convenient, versatile, and organized.
Another object of the invention is to provide an infant care system that allows a parent to attach different bag holders and different accessories as the baby grows, to meet the changing needs of the baby.
Another object of the invention is to provide an infant care system that allows a parent to personalize and attach different bag holders and different accessories on a daily basis in order to meet different needs.
Another object of the invention is to provide an infant care system wherein the detachable bag holders are organized so that each is for a specific use or activity, such as bottle feeding, solid feeding, changing diapers, cleaning up, extra pacifiers, and accessing personal items, such as a cell phone, a camera, keys, money, or credit cards.
Another object of the invention is to provide an infant care system that utilizes a quick release latch having a spring which may be operated by only one hand in order to quickly detach the detachable bag holder from the clicking post disposed along the primary bag assembly.
Another object of the invention is to provide an infant care system that utilizes a quick release latch and clicking post which provides a secure connection to the primary bag assembly so that accessories will not fall out, and so that the detachable bag holders will not fall off the primary bag assembly.
Another object of the invention is to provide an infant care system that allows a parent to attach and detach the separate bag holders in order to customize the infant care system for the needs of that day.
Another object of the invention is to provide an infant care system wherein the detachable bag holders are easily visible on the outside of the primary bag assembly for easy selection and use by a parent.
In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, the infant care system includes a primary bag assembly and a plurality of detachable bag holders that are detachably securable to the primary bag assembly. The primary bag assembly includes a diaper bag, multiple storage pockets, multiple clicking posts for attaching accessories, and a foldable flap for overlapping and covering the diaper bag. The plurality of detachable bag holders is for holding various baby articles, and each bag holder has a releasable latch for releasable attachment to a clicking post. The plurality of detachable bag holders could include a baby bottle holder, a food holder, a pacifier holder, a baby wipe holder, an accessory holder for a cell phone, a camera, keys, or credit cards.
Numerous advantages are offered by the invention described herein.
An advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system and diaper bag which is durable, comfortable, and stylish, and also provides a great deal of organization for all of the baby products that must be portable.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system that is convenient, versatile, and organized.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system that allows a parent to attach different bag holders and different accessories as the baby grows, to meet the changing needs of the baby.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system that allows a parent to personalize and attach different bag holders and different accessories on a daily basis in order to meet different needs.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system wherein the detachable bag holders are organized so that each is for a specific use or activity, such as bottle feeding, solid feeding, delivering medications, changing diapers, cleaning up, storing extra pacifiers, and accessing personal items, such as a cell phone, a camera, keys, money, or credit cards.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system that utilizes a quick release latch having a spring which may be operated by only one hand in order to quickly detach the detachable bag holders from the clicking posts on the primary bag assembly.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system that utilizes a quick release latch and clicking post which provides a secure connection to the primary bag assembly so that accessories will not fall out, and so that the detachable bag holders will not fall off the primary bag assembly.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system that allows a parent to attach and detach the separate bag holders in order to customize the infant care system for the needs of that day.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides an infant care system wherein the detachable bag holders are easily visible on the outside of the primary bag assembly for easy selection and use by a parent.
Another advantage of the invention is that it allows a parent to organize accessories inside and outside of the primary bag system and along a shoulder strap.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides a removable strap which could be used to secure one or more bag holders about the waist of a parent or could be used to carry one or more bag holders separate and apart from the primary bag assembly.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides a multi-functional item that is also fashionable so as to include customizable prints and/or fabrics.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides a solution whereby the accessory bags are clearly visible along the exterior of the primary bag assembly so as to minimize the possibility of forgetting an important item.
Another advantage of the invention is that it is easily adaptable to the ever changing needs and demands of a growing child.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides a solution which allows a parent to attach items in the most logical and convenient locations along the bag system.
Another advantage of the invention is that it allows a parent to change the appearance and aesthetics of the bag system via a variety of different, fresh and new prints, colors, and patterns disposed along the exterior of the bag holders.
Another advantage of the invention is that it provides a bag system that fully integrates both function and design into a total solution.


REFERENCE NUMERALS

10	Infant care system
12	Carrying strap
14	Closure element
16	Fastener
18	Central pocket
20	Primary bag assembly
22	Diaper bag
24	Storage pocket
26	Storage pocket
28	Storage pocket
30	Storage pocket
32	Foldable flap
34	Storage pocket
40	Clicking post
43	Bulbous end
45	Extension
47	Base
48	Structure
50	Bag holder
60	Latch
80	Mat
90	First circular element
92	Central hole
94	Push button
100	Second circular element
102	Central hole
110	Latch member
112	Outer claw
114	Notch
116	Spring
118	Inner opening
120	Inner claw
122	Push button
124	Pivoting latch member
126	Pin
127	Opening
128	Opening
129	Opening
130	Secondary attachment element
131	Arcuate side
133	Upper portion
135	Landing
140	Buckle
142	First buckle element
144	Second buckle element
150	Interior
160	Zipper
162	Ring
164	Strap
170	Slidable assembly
172	Bendable strap
174	Fastener

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will be understood and will become more readily apparent when the invention is considered in the light of the following description made in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view illustrating the primary bag assembly when in the closed position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view illustrating the primary bag assembly when in the open position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view illustrating the primary bag assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 includes various views illustrating a variety of detachable bag holders that are detachably secured to the bag assembly in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 includes various views illustrating a variety of detachable bag holders that are detachably secured to the bag assembly in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a foldable diaper changing pad in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the releasable latch for releasable attachment to a clicking post in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 a is a front side view illustrating the releasable latch in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 b is a rear side view illustrating the releasable latch in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a front exploded view illustrating elements of the releasable latch in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a rear exploded view illustrating elements of the releasable latch in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating location of clicking posts along the interior wall of the primary bag assembly and secondary attachment elements along one side thereof in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 a is a perspective view illustrating the carrying strap removed from the primary bag assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 b is a perspective view illustrating the carrying strap configured for use as a utility-like belt in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 a is a top view illustrating a clicking post attached to a fabric strip and having a hook-and-loop attachment element that allows the assembly to be secured to the primary bag assembly in a slidable fashion in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 b is a perspective view illustrating the embodiment in FIG. 13 a folded for attachment onto a carrying strap in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to several preferred embodiments of the invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts. The drawings are not to precise scale. While various features are separately described herein, it is understood that two or more such features could be combined into a single embodiment. Also, while an infant bag is specifically described herein, the invention is likewise applicable to other uses including, but not limited to, travel bags, professional bags, sports bags, school bags, and computer bags. Components could be composed of one or more natural and/or man-made materials known within the art. Components and assemblies are manufactured via techniques understood in the art.
Referring now to FIGS. 1-5, the invention provides an infant care system 10 having a primary bag assembly 20 and a plurality of detachable bag holders 50 that are detachably securable to the primary bag assembly 20. The primary bag assembly 20 is constructed to include at least one large central pocket 18 accessible via an optional foldable flap 32. The central pocket 18 could include a plurality of flexible and/or stretchable walls composed of a one or more materials fastened, sewn, and/or secured via methods understood in the art to form a pocket-like structure with a cavity having a preferred shape, non-limiting examples including rectangular, square and circular, yet be sufficiently voluminous, stretchable and/or expandable to accommodate items and accessories placed into it. The central pocket 18 could further include one or more storage pockets 24, 26, 28, 30, 34 disposed along the exterior thereof to form a diaper bag 22. Other storage pockets could also be provided along the interior of the central pocket 18. A foldable flap 32 could overlap and cover portions of the diaper bag 22.
Storage pockets 24, 26, 28, 30, 34 could be fabricated from one or more flexible and/or stretchable materials which are fastened, sewn and/or secured onto the exterior of the primary bag assembly 20 about the central pocket 18. The central pocket 18 could include a closure element 14, one example being a zipper, which allows a user to open and close the central pocket 18 so as to secure items stored therein.
The exterior of the various components of the infant care system 10 could include decorative designs which are printed, applied, or embedded within or onto the materials comprising the components. For example, this feature allows a user to change the overall appearance of the primary bag assembly 20 via the bag holders 50 and/or foldable flap 32.
In some embodiments, the storage pockets 24, 30, 34 could be readily accessible as shown along the side and ends of the primary bag assembly 20, as represented in FIGS. 1 and 3. In other embodiments, the storage pockets 26, 28 could be covered by the foldable flap 32 attached to the primary bag assembly 20 and disposed in a closable fashion over the storage pockets 26, 28, as represented in FIG. 2. In yet other embodiments, the foldable flap 32 could be fixed to the primary bag assembly 20 as a messenger bag or secured thereto in a detachable construction via a zipper or hook-and-loop fastener system to form a tote bag. Furthermore, the primary bag system 20 could include a fastener 16, one non-limiting example being a hook-and-loop system, disposed along the exterior thereof so as to receive and hold the foldable flap 32.
The primary bag assembly 20 could further include a carrying strap 12 which is secured thereto in a detachable fashion and which could be adjustable to vary its length. The carrying strap 12 could include a first buckle element 142 and a second buckle element 144 disposed at opposite ends thereof, as represented in FIG. 12 a. The first buckle element 142 and second buckle element 144 could attach to complementary elements disposed at opposite ends of the primary bag assembly 20 to complete the buckles 140, as represented in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the carrying strap 12 could be removable so as to function as a utility belt worn about the waist of a user, as represented in FIG. 12 b, or as a stand along strap to carry one or more bag holders 50 or other accessories separate from the primary bag assembly 20.
The primary bag assembly 20 further includes a plurality of clicking posts 40 facilitating attachment of the bag holders 50 thereto in a detachable fashion. In some embodiments, the clicking posts 40 could be located along the exterior surfaces of the primary bag assembly 20, as represented in FIGS. 1 and 11. In other embodiments, the clicking posts 40 could be located along the carrying strap 12, as represented in FIGS. 1, 12 a, and 12 b. In yet other embodiments, the clicking posts 40 could be located along the interior 150 of the primary bag assembly 20, as represented in FIG. 11.
In some embodiments, the clicking posts 40 could be fixed to the primary bag assembly 20 along one or more locations along the exterior (front, side, back, top and/or bottom) and/or interior thereof and/or carrying strap 12 therefore. Clicking posts 40 could be composed of a hard plastic and/or metal.
Referring now to FIG. 7, each clicking post 40 could include a bulbous end 43 attached to an extension 45 of generally cylindrical shape and having a base 47 of generally planar shape. The clicking post 40 is attached to a structure 48, examples including but not limited to the walls of the primary bag assembly 20 and carrying strap 12. In one possible attachment scheme, the base 47 and a washer are aligned along opposite sides of the structure 48 and a pin or the like is inserted through the washer into the base 47 and extension 45 so as to lock the assembly onto the structure 48. In preferred embodiments, the pin forms a friction fit when inserted into the extension 45. In some embodiments, the described arrangement might allow a user to remove the otherwise fixed clicking post 40 from the structure 48 so as to reposition the location of the clicking post 40 along the primary bag assembly 20 to maximize convenience. In yet other embodiments, the clicking posts 40 could be attached to the primary bag assembly 20 via a rivet or other fasteners understood in the art. In another attachment scheme, the clicking post 40 could be sewn into a component, as represented for the slidable assembly 170 in FIG. 13 a.
In other embodiments, the clicking posts 40 could be attached to the primary bag assembly 20 in a movable fashion so as to reposition the clicking posts 40 as needed by the user to maximize convenience. Referring now to FIGS. 12 a, 12 b, and 13 a, 13 b, the clicking post 40 is now shown attached to a slidable assembly 170. The slidable assembly 170 could include a clicking post 40 attached to a bendable strap 172, examples including but not limited to a strip of fabric and/or plastic, via means described herein or otherwise known within the art. The bendable strap 172 could further include a pair of complementary fasteners 174, one non-limiting example being hook-and-loop elements, secured at opposite ends thereof. The clicking post 40 is attached to the carrying strap 12 by bending the bendable strap 172 around the carrying strap 12 and securing the ends thereof via the fasteners 174. This arrangement allows the slidable assembly 170 to be repositionable along the length of the carrying strap 12 which is valuable when the carrying strap 12 is used as a utility belt separate from the primary bag assembly 20.
In other embodiments, the moveable clicking posts 40 could be disposed within a track-like element attached to the primary bag assembly 20 and/or carrying strap 12. The clicking posts 40 could slide along the track elements for repositioning purposes required to accommodate the size and placement of bag holders 50 and/or for a more ergonomic arrangement. Clicking posts 40 could be secured at a specific location along a track via a lock mechanism, friction fit, spring detent pin lock, or other means understood in the art.
Each clicking post 40 enables a user to secure a bag holder 50 to the primary bag assembly 20. Referring now to FIGS. 4-5, a variety of exemplary detachable bag holders 50 are shown for use with the infant care system 10. It is understood that the bag holders 50 could be sold in a variety of sizes and shapes for a variety of applications. Each bag holder 50 includes at least one latch 60 which allows the bag holder 50 to be secured to a clicking post 40. It is further understood that a bag holder 50 could include one or more features described herein. It is also further understood that a bag holder 50 could be separately functional from the remainder of the primary bag assembly 20.
In some embodiments, the bag holders 50 could include pocket-like components which allow for the storage of one or more items in a secure and accessible fashion. In other embodiments, the bag holders 50 could include a zipper 160 or other fastening means known within the art allowing a user to close and/or lock a bag holder 50 or attach the bag holder 50 to a carrying strap 12. In yet other embodiments, the bag holder 50 could include a ring 162 attached to a strap 164 for use as a key chain or the like. In still other embodiments, the bag holder 50 could be configured as a foldable mat 80 for use with changing a baby or as a ground cover for a picnic or other outdoor activity, as represented in FIG. 6.
The bag holders 50 are configurable to function for one or more uses, examples including but not limited to bottle holders, feeding accessories holders, pacifier holders, food bags, cosmetics bags, small purses/money holders, waterproof bags, clothes bags, cooler bags, wipes holders, storage bags, changing pads, bag top flap, key chains, credit card holders, mat or blanket holders, and cell phone and/or personal digital assistant (PDA) cases. Accordingly, bag holders 50 could be constructed of such exemplary, non-limiting materials including leather, fabrics, plastics, metals, water proof materials, stretchable materials, and insulation materials.
Referring now to FIGS. 7, 8 a, 8 b, and 9, the releasable latch 60 enabling attachment of the various bag holders 50 to a primary bag assembly 20 via a clicking post 40 is shown. The latch 60 includes a first circular element 90 with a central hole 92 for receiving a clicking post 40, a push button 122, and an opening 129 along one side allowing attachment of a strap or the like to the latch 60. The latch 60 also includes a coplanar second circular element 100 having a central hole 102 for receiving a clicking post 40. The central holes 92, 102 are aligned and attached so that when the latch 60 is assembled, the holes 92, 102 are aligned. Elements comprising the latch 60 could be composed of a plastic or other material compatible with functional aspects of each element.
Between the first and second circular elements 90 and 100 is a latch member 110 having an outer claw 112 for engaging the inside of the first circular element 90, a notch 114 for receiving a spring 116, an inner opening 118 for receiving an inner claw 120, and a second push button 94. The generally arcuate and y-shaped inner claw 120 is mounted on and pivots about a pin 126 extending perpendicularly from the first circular element 90. The distal end of the pin 126 could reside within an opening 127 along the second circular element 100. The inner claw 120 and outer claw 112 are preferred to be deformable and resilient. The spring 116 biases the inner claw 120 towards the arcuate side 131 of the inner opening 118 so as to form an opening 128 which is smaller that the central holes 92, 102. The first and second circular elements 90, 100 are shaped so as to allow the second push button 94 to extend from the latch 60 and move freely therein.
To secure the latch 60 to a clicking post 40, the releasable latch 60 is aligned over the opening 128 so as to contact the bulbous end 43 of the clicking post 40. Thereafter, a force is applied onto the latch 60 in the direction of the clicking post 40. The spring 116, inner claw 120, and outer claw 112 allow the hole 128 to enlarge and to receive the clicking post 40. The resultant forces applied to the latch 60 compress the outer claw 112 as the inner latch member 110 slides toward the push button 122. The inner claw 120 contacts an upper portion 133 of the latch member 110 causing the inner claw 120 to rotate about the pin 126 and toward the spring 116 compressing the spring 116 and optionally compressing a portion of the inner claw 120 immediately adjacent to the spring 116. The resultant motion causes the hole 128 to enlarge sufficiently so as to allow the latch 60 to pass over the bulbous end 43. After the latch 60 slides over the bulbous end 43, the opening forces are diminished and the latch member 110 returns to its original or nearly original position via the resiliency of the outer claw 112 and the inner claw 120 returns to its original or nearly original position via the resiliency of the spring 116 and optionally via the inner claw 120. After the hole 128 has cleared the bulbous end 43, the restoring elements within the latch 60 ensure the extension 45 is disposed between the arcuate side 131 and the inner claw 120 locking the latch 60 to the clicking post 40. In this manner, a detachable bag holder 50 is secured to the clicking post 40.
To release the latch 60 from the clicking post 40, a force is applied onto the two push buttons 94 and 122. The latch member 110 slides toward the push button 122 compressing the outer claw 112. The inner claw 120 contacts the upper portion 133 causing it to rotate about the pin 126 and toward the spring 116 compressing the spring 116 and optionally compressing a portion of the inner claw 120 immediately adjacent to the spring 116. The resultant motion causes the hole 128 to enlarge sufficiently so as to allow the latch 60 to pass up and over the bulbous end 43. Thereafter, the compressive forces are removed from the push buttons 94, 122 and the latch member 110 returns to its original position via the resiliency of the outer claw 112 and the inner claw 120 returns to its original position via the resiliency of the spring 116 and optionally via the inner claw 120. In this manner, a detachable bag holder 50 is released from the clicking post 40.
Referring now to FIG. 10, an alternate embodiment is shown wherein the restoring forces are imposed by the spring 116. In this embodiment, the latch member 110 has an inner opening 118, a notch 114 for receiving a spring 116, and an arcuate pivoting latch member 124. When assembled between the first and second circular elements 90, 100 described herein, the pivoting latch member 124 is rotatable about the pin 126 and the landing 135 along the pivoting latch member 124 contacts the spring 116.
To secure the latch 60 to a clicking post 40, the releasable latch 60 is aligned over the opening 128 so as to contact the bulbous end 43 of the clicking post 40. Thereafter, a force is applied onto the latch 60 in the direction of the clicking post 40. The spring 116 pivoting latch member 124 and spring 116 allow the hole 128 to enlarge and to receive the clicking post 40. The resultant forces applied to the latch 60 cause the latch member 110 to slide toward the push button 122. This results in the upper portion 133 contacting the inner claw 120 causing the inner claw 120 to rotate about the pin 126 and toward the spring 116 compressing the spring 116 and optionally compressing a portion of the inner claw 120 immediately adjacent to the spring 116. The resultant motion causes the hole 128 to enlarge sufficiently so as to allow the latch 60 to pass down and over the bulbous end 43. After the latch 60 slides over the bulbous end 43, the opening forces are diminished and the latch member 110 and the inner claw 120 return to their original or nearly original position via the resiliency of the spring 116 and optionally via the inner claw 120. After the hole 128 has cleared the bulbous end 43, the restoring elements within the latch 60 ensure the extension 45 is disposed between the arcuate side 131 and the inner claw 120 locking the latch 60 to the clicking post 40. In this manner, a detachable bag holder 50 is secured to the clicking post 40.
To release the latch 60 from the clicking post 40, a force is applied onto the two push buttons 94 and 122. The latch member 110 slides toward the push button 122. The upper portion 133 contacts the inner claw 120 causing it to rotate about the pin 126 and toward the spring 116 compressing the spring 116 and optionally compressing a portion of the inner claw 120 immediately adjacent to the spring 116. The resultant motion causes the hole 128 to enlarge sufficiently so as to allow the latch 60 to pass up and over the bulbous end 43. Thereafter, the compressive forces are removed from the push buttons 94, 122 and the latch member 110 returns to its original position via the resiliency of the spring 116 and optionally via the inner claw 120. In this manner, a detachable bag holder 50 is released from the clicking post 40.
In some embodiments, it might be advantageous to include one or more secondary attachment elements 130, as generally represented in FIGS. 2 and 11, to stabilize the bag holders 50 attached to the primary bag assembly 20. The secondary attachment elements 130 could include, but are not limited to, a hook-and-loop fastener system, a magnet-metal system, a pair of magnets, or other mechanical mechanisms understood in the art, including but not limited to an eyelet or clip with spring loaded lock. The secondary attachment elements 130 are complementarily applied to and between the primary bag assembly 20 and bag holder 50. Hook-and-loop fasteners could be applied along the exterior surfaces of the secondary attachment elements 130 and bag holder 50. Magnet-based and mechanical embodiments could be applied along the exterior surface or embedded within the walls of the primary bag assembly 20 and bag holder 50. In one example, a magnet could be embedded within one wall of the primary bag assembly 20 and a small metal disk embedded within the wall of a bag holder 50 so that the magnet attracts the metal disk when the bag holder 50 contacts the primary bag assembly 20.
The description above indicates that a great degree of flexibility is offered in terms of the invention. Although various embodiments have been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions are possible. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein.

Claims

1. An infant care system comprising:

(a) a primary bag assembly;

(b) a plurality of clicking posts disposed along the interior and/or exterior of said primary bag assembly, said clicking posts fixed, repositionable, and/or movable along said primary bag assembly; and

(c) a plurality of bag holders for holding various articles and accessories, each bag holder having a latch for releasable attachment to one of said clicking posts.

2. The infant care system of claim 1, said primary bag assembly includes at least one storage pocket.

3. The infant care system of claim 1, further comprising:

(d) a foldable flap attached to said primary bag system.

4. The infant care system of claim 3, wherein said foldable flap is removable from said primary bag assembly so that said primary bag assembly functions as a tote style bag.

5. The infant care system of claim 3, wherein said bag holders and/or said foldable flap include a decorative exterior which changes the appearance of said primary bag assembly.

6. The infant care system of claim 1, further comprising:

(d) a carrying strap.

7. The infant care system of claim 6, wherein at least one said clicking post is disposed along said carrying strap in a fixed, repositionable, or movable fashion.

8. The infant care system of claim 7, wherein said carrying strap is usable as a utility belt capable of holding at least one said bag holder.

9. The infant care system of claim 8, wherein said carrying strap is attachable to at least one said bag holder separate from said primary bag assembly.

10. The infant care system of claim 1, wherein said bag holders include a bottle holder, a feeding accessories holder, a pacifier holder, a food bag, a cosmetics bag, a small purses/money holder, a waterproof bag, a clothes bag, a cooler bag, a wipes holder, a storage bag, a changing pad, a bag top flap, a key holder, a credit card holder, a mat holder, a blanket holder, a camera case, a cell phone case, or a personal digital assistant (PDA) case.

11. The infant care system of claim 1, wherein said latch includes a spring actuated quick release and attachment mechanism requiring only one-hand for operation.

12. The infant care system of claim 11, wherein said latch includes a hole for receiving one of said clicking posts, and internal latch members which move relative to each other to change the size of said hole, and two push buttons on opposite sides of said latch for actuating said internal latch members.

13. The infant care system of claim 12, wherein said latch includes an inner claw which rotates when said latch is pushed onto said clicking post or when said push buttons are depressed so as to open said hole.

14. The infant care system of claim 13, wherein said latch includes an outer claw, at least said spring resets said latch after detachment and attachment of said latch relative to said clicking post.

15. The infant care system of claim 1, further comprising:

(d) at least one secondary attachment element disposed along said primary bag assembly to further secure and stabilize attachment of said bag holders.