US20120311763A1

US20120311763A1 - Outerwear Garment Wrap

Info

Publication number: US20120311763A1
Application number: US13/491,099
Authority: US
Inventors: Jalene King
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-06-08
Filing date: 2012-06-07
Publication date: 2012-12-13

Abstract

Disclosed is a wearable blanket having arm extensions, a hooded region and a body structure that forms a wearable outerwear blanket for cold and wet conditions. The blanket comprises an outer layer and an inner layer, wherein the outer layer comprises a waterproof and wind-breaking covering that is adapted to prevent water and wind penetration. The inner layer is a padded, insulative layer that is adapted to keep the user beneath the blanket warm and shielded from the cold. The garment is adapted to act as a wearable blanket and shroud that is particularly useful in harsh outdoor environments, particularly camping outings and sporting events in foul weather conditions. The edges of the blanket form together in front of the user and are securable to envelope the midsection and legs of a user within the interior of the garment, while the hood further shrouds the head of the user.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/494,640 filed on Jun. 8, 2011, entitled “Cheer On Fan Wrap.” The patent application identified above is incorporated here by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to outdoor blankets and outerwear garments. More specifically, the present invention pertains to a wearable blanket having arm extensions, a hooded cover and an outer layer that is adapted to be utilized in wet, outdoor environments.
Wearable blankets and blankets with sleeves have recently become popular items for household use. These devices comprise comforter or blanket sections having arm holes or sleeves within which a user places his or her arms, providing the user with a blanket that serves as a body cover while not inhibiting his or her arm movement. Users are able to manipulate objects outside of the blanket without removing the blanket from their body, including activities such as holding a book or television remote, or even eating while remaining covered by the blanket. These articles are well known and described for household and indoor use, wherein users may sit on a couch without having arm movement restriction. However, these devices are not well adapted for outdoor use and for use in outdoor conditions that involve high wind and rain.
Poncho devices are another well known device that provides users with a large material barrier and shroud against moisture and rain. These devices are generally large sheets of plastic material having a centrally located hole and a hood thereover for receiving the head of a user. The poncho sheet is then draped over the user, supported by the user's head and shoulders for the purposes of preventing contact between incoming rain droplets and the user's skin and clothing thereunder. These devices are well known in the art and utilized throughout the world as a means to stay dry while outdoors; however, these devices lack the ability to keep a user warm and insulated while remaining dry. Generally ponchos require a user to be wearing a jacket or similar outerwear garment under the poncho in colder climates. Further, ponchos generally are simple sheets of material with no arm sleeves, which limits the ability of the user to manipulate objects outside of the poncho without lifting it up and exposing himself to the rain and cold weather. To correct this flaw and fulfill a need in the art, a layered, wearable blanket is disclosed that is particularly suited for cold climates and in rainy, wet conditions.
Specifically, the present invention comprises a combination coat and wearable blanket that is particularly adapted for outdoor and foul weather use, wherein the device comprises an outer shell and an inner thermal liner, along with a structure that is akin to a large blanket having arm sleeves and a hooded region. The body region of the device is adapted to form a shell around the midsection and leg region of a user, while the arm sleeves allow free movement of the user's arms and the hooded region covers the user's head. The outer layer is one of waterproof and wind breaking material, which prevents moisture and air infiltration to the user, while the inner layer is a comfortable, thermally insulating material that is adapted to keep the user warm while outdoors. The edges of the body region form around the user and connect along the user's front, in a similar fashion as a large coat, providing a continuous shell that covers the user and keeps the user warm and dry in all conditions.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Devices have been disclosed in the prior art that relate to wearable blankets and poncho devices, including those that have been patented and published in patent application publications. These devices have familiar design elements for the purposes of providing a covering garment for a user. However, these devices fail to contemplate an outdoor, two-layer garment that is adapted to provide water and wind resistance, an insulating inner liner and a structure that is designed cover the body and lower portions of a user. The present invention contemplates a wearable blanket having arm sleeves, a hood and a body section that extends to the users feet, allowing the user to stand or be seated outdoors and be shielded from the elements. The present invention fulfills a long felt need in the art for body coverings. The devices deemed most relevant to the present disclosure are herein described for the purposes of highlighting the differentiating features of the present invention and the drawbacks in the prior art.
Specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 2,040,029 to Smutny is one such device that discloses an article of manufacture that comprises a combination beach rug and robe formed of a fabric body of substantially rectangular shape having a partially divided median region via a pair of slits from opposing sides. The slits separate the rug into an upper and lower region, wherein the lower region forms around the midsection of a user, while the upper region forms over the shoulders of a user in the form of a robe having arms. A central slit in the upper region provides a location for which the user to place his or her head therethrough, while the upper and lower regions are connected along their median region and then again via a pair of buttons that join the upper edge of the upper region to the upper edge of the lower region. The Smutny device is one that combines a rug and a robe, wherein the rug is sectioned and adorned with attachment means to facilitate wearing the rug in a way that is fashionable and not construed as conspicuous. The present invention provides a wearable blanket formed of two layers having arm holes and a hooded region. The present invention is designed to function primarily as an elongated outerwear garment that is formed of a large blanket. It is not desired to operate as a rug placed on the ground during periods of nonuse.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,353,933 to Love is another device that describes a poncho and seat cushion combination for use as a protective weather garment while seated at an event. The poncho comprises a rectangular sheet having a hood opening, while an extension sheet attaches the cushion to the inside surface of the rear portion of the poncho. When donned, the cushion is positioned just below the user's buttocks when standing, thereby positioning the cushion such that when the user sits down, the cushion rests on a support surface and provides a buttocks cushion therefor. The assembly can be rolled and stowed against the cushion when not in use, providing a means to easily transport the assembly during events when the poncho is not immediately needed, but desired because of impending foul weather or forecast thereof. The Love device is a combination poncho and seat cushion, and provides little in the way of thermal insulation for colder outdoor environments. The present invention relates to a thermally lined and weatherproof covering garment that is adapted to encompass the user, keeping the user warm and dry during outdoor events and in foul weather conditions.
Similar to the Smutny device, U.S. Published Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0146680 to Cuoco discloses a wearable blanket that comprises a primary layer of material and a secondary layer of material on top of the primary layer, wherein the layers define a first and second sleeve passage and a lower section that is adapted to wrap around the torso of the user independently from the sleeve passages. The device is a folded blanket having arm slits and a lower section that is adapted to detach from the arm hole upper sections, whereby the entire device creates a rob-like device in a similar fashion as Smutny. The present invention is a wearable blanket having outwardly protruding sleeves and a hooded region, as opposed to slits in its structure that act as arm holes.
Further, U.S. Pat. No. 5,427,834 to Sodetz discloses a waterproof textile blanket comprising of a nylon layer and soft acrylic lining layer attached thereto. The blanket is adapted to keep users warm and dry, but fails to disclose any novel features beyond the construction of a two-layer blanket wrap. A binding element along the perimeter of the blanket keeps the two materials attached, while a transparent case is provided for carrying the assembly when not in use. The present invention contemplates a wearable blanket having a waterproof layer and an insulating underside layer, wherein the blanket further comprises arm sleeve projections and a hooded region wherein the user's head is able to fit thereinto and allow the blanket edges to be connected around the forward portion of a user's body.
Finally, U.S. Published Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0205714 to Pollack discloses a cushioned wrap that comprises a blanket having full coverage of the user, providing arm sleeves and cushioned areas of the blanket that are strategically placed for improved comfort and body support. While providing a comfortable blanket that is both warm and supportive, the Pollack disclosure is not well adapted to provide an outdoor blanket or cover in foul weather, wherein it may be windy and raining. The present invention is adapted to provide a wearable blanket that is adapted for outdoor use and particularly for spectator events in cold and wet conditions, wherein thermal insulation, wind breaking and water resistance are of primary importance to avoid exposure and hypothermia.
The present invention provides an outerwear covering that combines a wearable blanket and a multi-layered jacket to provide users with a large covering from wind, rain and cold air while outdoors, while further providing arm sleeves to allow freedom of motion while donning the garment. In light of the aforementioned prior art devices, it is submitted that the present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the prior art, and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing wearable blanket outerwear devices. In this regard the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of outerwear garments now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a new garment wherein the same can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when preventing exposure to rain, wind and colder temperatures while outdoors or while attending outdoor events.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved outerwear garment device that has all of the advantages of the prior art and none of the disadvantages.
It is another object of the present invention to provide an outerwear garment that provides complete body coverage for a user and prevents penetration of wind, water and cold air therethrough, allowing the user to remain warm and dry in foul weather conditions and while outdoors for extended periods.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an outerwear garment that comprises a wearable blanket or wrap having arm sleeves, a hooded region, an elongated body section adapted to cover the body and leg portions of a user, and a structure that incorporates an inner insulating layer and an outer shell layer.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an outerwear garment that is specifically suited for outdoor use, and even more so for outdoor spectator events wherein user movement is limited and the conditions may be wet, windy and cold.
Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.

FIG. 1 shows a frontal view of the present invention in a closed position and its hooded region open.

FIG. 2 shows a frontal view of the present invention in a closed position.

FIG. 3 shows a frontal perspective view of the present invention in a working state, shrouding a user therein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the outerwear garment. For the purposes of presenting a brief and clear description of the present invention, the preferred embodiment will be discussed as used for shrouding a user from outdoor elements for prolong periods of time. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is shown a frontal view of the present outerwear garment in a closed position, wherein the garment is in a position to enclose a user therein for protection against outdoor elements. The garment comprises of an elongated body section 11 that is similar to a wearable blanket or wrap, which extends from the user's armpit region and down to the feet of the user for complete coverage thereover. Above the body section 11 are two arm sleeves 12 that extend from a midsection, above which is positioned an opening for the user's head. Around the opening is a head covering hood 13, which is adapted to secure over the head of the user and allow the user to breathe through an opening aligned with the user's face. The body section 11 is a largely rectangular wrap having a first and second overlapable or joinable edges 14. If provided with joinable edges, a line of closure for the garment along the front of the user is also provided to secure the garment closed. In a preferred embodiment, the body section 11 is adapted to be wrapped around a user as the edges 14 overlap. In use, the garment provides freedom of motion of the user's arms via the arm sleeves 12, while providing coverage over the midsection and leg region of the user and over the user's head, with the goal of keeping the user's entire body warm and dry while outdoors.
The construction of the garment comprises a first and second layer, comprising an outer shell layer 16 that is made of a waterproof and wind-breaking material, accompanied by a coextensive inner liner 15 material that spans the entire inner surface of the shell to thermally insulate the user from colder temperatures. Together, the outer shell and inner lining prevent moisture and air infiltration while thermally insulating the majority of the user's body. The size and nature of the garment, in the way that it is meant to wrap and envelope the user, provides a user with outerwear that is particularly suited for foul weather outdoor wear and during periods of minimal movement. The user can sit while donning the wrap, while the garment provides a shell of warmth and barrier for the elements.
Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a perspective view of the present invention in a working state and donned by a seated user. As shown, the garment comprises of a body wrap or wearable blanket, wherein the body section 11 of the garment is oversized and elongated to enable the user to overlap the edges of the garment over her midsection, while the length of the wrap is adapted to extend to the user's feet for full coverage of the user's legs and torso region. The exterior shell 16 of the wrap provides a wind and moisture barrier, while the inner thermal layer 15 provides warmth and improved comfort for the user, particularly when resting or sitting within the wrap. The hood region 13 is further lined and provided with the shell 16 material, and is suited for preventing moisture, wind penetration and heat release therethrough and around the user's head. The external shell may comprise of a water resistance and densely woven material that prevents wind penetration, while the inner layer is one of increased thermal resistance and comfort, such as fleece, cotton or wool.
Individuals often enjoy attending sporting events and other outdoor activities, whether watching their children play or attending professional games at large stadiums. Many sports are played through cold months of the year, requiring spectators to sit outside for hours in cold and inclement weather. To combat these elements, many consumers wrap themselves in blankets for warmth or ponchos for a moisture barrier. However, traditional blankets and ponchos are not particularly suited for encompassing a user's entire body and preventing gusts of wind and rain from penetrating therethrough. Further, blankets limit the ability of the user to utilize his or her hands freely as compared to a standard jacket. These blankets may also quickly become wet if exposed to rain and snow. Being draped in wet blankets may cause spectators to become very cold and possibly ill. Also, blankets can easily fall off when users lift their arms to cheer, causing further exposure to cold and inclement weather conditions. Ponchos, on the other hand, provide a thin plastic layer that is a moisture barrier, with little to no thermal resistance or ability to retain the user's body heat in colder weather. The present invention is therefore provided as an effective, preventative solution that addresses the gap between traditional poncho and blankets in the art, and in particular a garment having the ability to address outdoor and inclement weather conditions.
The present invention allows individuals to stay comfortably warm and dry while watching outdoor sporting events or other engaging in outdoor activities. This garment comprises a waterproof wrap having protruding sleeves and a hood region, designed to be worn like a coat or body wrap around a user. Snaps or a zipper may be provided along the edges of the body region to secure the front of the garment closed, or alternatively the garment may be provided as a pure wrap having no means of closure, simply and oversized body region meant for overlap. Thermally insulating fleece, cotton or wool liner material within the garment serves to preserve the user's body heat for sustained warmth and comfort over long periods of outdoor exposure. The outer shell may further be provided in a variety of colors, patterns or team colors, making the garment ideally suited for use as an organization uniform or for fan use at an outdoor sporting event.
The structure of the wrap is such that it is easily condensed by rolling the assembly into a stowed state, whereafter it can be placed within a carrying case or bag. The garment is elongated and well suited for stowage in a rolled form. This allows users to stow the garment within a carrying bag and deploy the garment as necessary when outdoors, in the event of the onset of inclement weather. Overall, the goal is provide an easily deployable, wearable and body encompassing wrap that serves keep the user warm and dry while outdoors, all while maintaining the user's ability to manipulate their arms outside of the body region of the wrap. The present invention advances the art of body wraps, blankets and ponchos by providing a combination device that accomplishes each of these device's purposes in a single assembly.
In light of the present disclosure, it is submitted that the present invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.
Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1) An outerwear garment, comprising:

a body wrap having an elongated body section, protruding arm sleeves and a hood region;

said protruding arm sleeves connecting to said body section, positioned below said hood region;

said body section having a first and second edge, said edges providing an opening extending from said hood region to said body section termination;

said edges adapted to overlap and wrap a user midsection and legs;

said wrap further comprising a coextensive outer shell layer and an inner liner;

said shell layer adapted to be water resistant and wind breaking;

said inner liner adapted to be thermally insulating;

said wrap adapted to accept a user's arms in said arm sleeves, a user's head in said hood region, and a user's midsection and legs in said body section, said body section adapted to extend and terminate at said user's feet.

2) The device of claim 1, wherein said body section edges further comprise a connection means for connecting said edges together.

3) An outerwear garment, comprising:

said edges further comprising a connection means for connecting said edges together;

said shell layer adapted to be water resistant and wind breaking;

said inner liner adapted to be thermally insulating;

4) The device of claim 2, wherein said body section edges adapted to overlap and wrap a user midsection and legs.