US20140251515A1

US20140251515A1 - Modular tote and method of manufacturing the same

Info

Publication number: US20140251515A1
Application number: US14/201,569
Authority: US
Inventors: Cynthia Hansen; Elyse Hansen; Cassandra Heald
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-03-08
Filing date: 2014-03-07
Publication date: 2014-09-11
Also published as: WO2014138597A1; WO2014138597A8

Abstract

A modular bag is described where the modular bag includes an outer shell as well as at least one of a first and second insert that is removable from the bag outer shell. The inserts are further replaceable with other inserts and each of the inserts may be configured to secure or store different items. One or more inserts may further include one or more removable pockets or permanent pockets.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/774,882, filed Mar. 8, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is generally directed toward modular bags and, in particular, toward various modular bag systems that utilize removable inserts.

BACKGROUND

A bag, such as a handbag or tote, is a bag that comes in a variety of sizes and holds various items. The modern origin of these bags began in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries when people began to travel more frequently and by varying modes of transportation. A variety of bag sizes, shapes, and styles soon emerged for use during different occasions and circumstances. As the bag industry increased in size and complexity, the aesthetics and design of the bags increased in importance. Eventually, the bag industry developed into the industry we see today where the fashion and design of the bag are of great importance.
Bags also provide functionality in addition to fashionable design. Early bags were used to carry coins and currency as well as other items such as pipes, matches, and pocketknives. As the bag industry grew and as the complexity of the world at large increased, bags were purposed for a variety of applications. For example, modern bags are used to carry disparate items such as notebook computers and baby supplies. Due to this specialization of bags, the interior and exterior of bags began to include specialized features to accommodate the disparate items carried in bags. For example, bags today may include a specialized pocket or sleeve for a particular model of notebook computer or a specialized pocket or sleeve for baby diapers.
Another modern advent in the bag industry is skyrocketing prices for fashionable or luxury bags. Some fashion brands have had price increases of 50-60% in the past decade, and some fashion brands consistently increase prices up to 13% per annum. With bag prices at all-time highs, bag users are limited to fewer bags. Burgeoning fashion and luxury markets in China, India, and Brazil will ensure an upward pressure on bag prices for years to come.
As bags are specialized for carrying a wide variety of items and as bags continue to become more expensive, a particular problem has emerged. A typical bag user cannot buy a bag with a particular fashion or design for every specialized application. In other words, it is becoming more cost prohibitive to buy a bag for baby supplies, for professional items, for electronic equipment, for toiletries, for sports gear, etc. Further yet, bags that include features for a particular use may have a limited lifespan. A bag that has features specialized for baby supplies will only be useful as long as the user needs to carry those items. Therefore, there is a need for a bag that can provide a user with a particular fashion or design and that has specialized features that carry or secure a wide variety of items.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is thus an aspect of embodiments of the present invention to provide a bag with a particular fashion or design that can be used in a wide variety of applications and uses. It is a further aspect of this invention to provide a bag with modular inserts that may be connected to the bag to provide application-specific functionality to the bag.
It is a further aspect of embodiments of the present invention to improve the utility of a fashionable bag by increasing the bag's longevity or usefulness. When user purchases a fashionable bag for a particular application, that application may not last indefinitely. As mentioned above, a fashionable bag that is specific to baby needs loses its utility when the baby grows up and there is no need for specialized features that carry diapers, formula, creams, change pads, etc. In embodiments of the present invention, a user can simply swap out the baby-specific inserts and replace them with other inserts such as inserts for a professional adult that can accommodate notebook or tablet computers, paper pads, pens, USB drives, etc. Further, the user can switch between various inserts during a day-to-day routine, not just when a bag specialized for a particular application entirely loses its utility.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide multiple inserts so that insert combinations are available for a user. The interior of a bag may comprise multiple interior sides upon which a separate insert may be connected to each interior side. Using the baby example again, a multi-insert combination provides an advantage where baby products and other items are strategically placed within the multiple inserts such that a user may readily and easily access the products or items.
Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a bag that is easily cleaned. Many uses of a bag result in a bag that is dirty and messy. A bag directed towards baby needs may experience spilled snacks, formula, juice, milk, and other supplies. The modular design of embodiments of the present invention allows various inserts to be removed such that the bag may be thoroughly cleaned. Further, the bag and its various features, such as inserts and zippers, may be made from a water resistant or water proof material so that they may be readily washed. In a similar vein, features such as a waterproof lining may be incorporated into the inserts and their features to prevent the contents carried items from leaking out.
It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide utility beyond fashionable bags. In the examples used thus far, a bag is fashionable and allows a user to switch inserts to transition between baby care, professional life, travel, crafts, fitness, etc. However, fashion is not only common denominator in the present invention. For example, a user may desire to purchase a bag because of its camouflage properties, yet also desire to use the camouflage bag in a variety of applications. In addition, there are varying types of camouflage for different environments. Before the present invention, if a user wanted multiple types of camouflage for use in multiple, specific applications, the user would need to purchase many bags. In contrast, in embodiments of the present invention the user can simply choose which camouflage bags and which specific applications are required, then mix and match the various modular components of the present invention. The same concept can extend to other utilities beyond fashion and camouflage such as durability for work use, waterproof qualities for underwater use, etc.
An aspect of the present invention is to provide a modular system that aids in the prevention of accidental injuries or the enhancement of general safety. A color-coding system for various components and features of a bag may help with injuries or safety. A user may want to utilize a bag to carry substances or devices that may be potentially harmful to the user or others. A color-coding scheme can help mitigate the risk of accidental exposure to a harmful substance, accidental injury from a device, or other ills. For example, a parent may want to carry prescription medication in his or her bag that has baby-specific inserts. A bag, insert, pocket, or other feature that is a solid color of warning such as red, will signal others to not disturb the contents of the feature. This is useful in the context of a baby-specific bag because even young children can associate colors with harm or ill consequences.
Embodiments of the present invention may include removable or modular inserts that are releasably attached to various locations on a bag. These inserts may come in a variety of shapes, but in one embodiment the inserts have a first major surface and a second major surface that interconnect to each other along a top edge, a bottom edge, and two side edges. In some embodiments, the inserts are disposed in the interior cavity of the bag, and the first major side is proximate to the interior surface of the bag, and the second major side faces the interior cavity of the bag. These inserts may comprise fastening features that allow the insert to attach to the bag. In some embodiments, the inserts are releasably attached to the bag such that the inserts may be freely attached and detached from the bag, which allows a user to quickly switch inserts in the bag depending on the user's particular needs.
Further, embodiments of the present invention may include removable or modular pockets that are releasably attached to various locations on a bag. Similar to the inserts, the pockets may be disposed in a variety of locations on the bag and the inserts, but in one embodiment, these pockets are disposed on the inserts. In some embodiments, the pockets are attached with more permanent means such as threaded stitching, but in other embodiments, the pockets are releasably attached to the inserts such that the user may mix and match various inserts and pocket to suit the user's particular needs.
In embodiments of the present invention, the inserts and the pockets may interface with one another to provide additional properties to the bag. The inserts may attach to one another at their respective side edges to provide more complete protection to the interior surface of the bag, and this configuration may also aid in providing more complete water proof or water resistance characteristics to the bag. The inserts themselves may also comprise extensions that extend from one or more edges of the inserts to interface with other components of the bag and provide even more protection, or in other cases, concealment.
An embodiment of the present invention is a modular bag that comprises an outer shell; and a first insert configured to be releasably attachable to the outer shell via a releasable mechanism.
Another embodiment of the present invention is a modular bag that comprises an outer shell; a first removable insert that is releasably attachable to an interior surface of the outer shell; and a second removable insert that is releasably attachable to at least one of the interior surface of the outer shell and the first removable insert.
A further embodiment of the present invention is a removable insert configured to interface with a bag interior, the removable insert comprising a first major surface, an opposing second major surface, a top edge connecting the first and second major surfaces, a bottom edge opposing the top edge and connecting the first and second major surfaces, a first side edge adjacent to the bottom edge and top edge, and a second side edge adjacent to the bottom edge and top edge and further opposite the first side edge, wherein the first major surface is configured to face toward the bag interior and the second major surface is configured to face toward a bag cavity, and wherein at least one of the first major surface, top edge, bottom edge, first side edge, and second side edge include a releasable mechanism that enables the removable insert to be removably attached to the bag interior.
These and other advantages will be apparent from the disclosure of the invention(s) contained herein. The above-described embodiments, objectives, and configurations are neither complete nor exhaustive. The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. Moreover, references made herein to “the present invention” or aspects thereof should be understood to mean certain embodiments of the present invention and should not necessarily be construed as limiting all embodiments to a particular description. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and Detailed Description and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the Detailed Description particularly when taken together with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosures.

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a modular bag in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of a modular bag in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of a modular bag in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a top isometric view of a modular bag in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is another top isometric view of a modular bog in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of an insert in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of an insert in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of inserts in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of an insert in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of an insert in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of inserts in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a top isometric view of a modular bag in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; and

FIG. 13 is a further top isometric view of a modular bag in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

To assist in the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention the following list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided herein:


	No.	Component

	100	Bag
	104	Strap
	108	Ring
	112	Logo
	116	Foot
	120	First Panel
	122	Clasp
	124	Second Panel
	128	First Panel Width
	132	Second Panel Width
	136	Second Panel Height
	140	Strap Height
	148	Chain
	152	First Panel Upper Width
	156	First Panel Lower Width
	160	First Panel Height
	164	Front Flap
	168	Front Pocket
	172	Front Pocket Height
	176	Handle
	180	Side Buckle
	184	Front Buckle
	188	Front Strap
	192	Front Zipper
	196	Handle Base
	200	Left Flap Distance
	204	Right Flap Distance
	208	Base-to-Base Distance
	212	Base-to-Edge Distance
	216	Front Zipper Distance
	220	Front Interior Fastener
	224	Rear Interior Fastener
	228	Left Interior Fastener
	232	Right Interior Fastener
	233	Interior Zipper
	234	Interior Holder
	235	Interior Pocket
	236	Front Insert
	240	Front Insert Fastener
	244	Front Insert Width
	248	Front Insert Height
	252	First Front Insert Pocket
	256	Second Front Insert Pocket
	260	Third Front Insert Pocket
	264	Fourth Front Insert Pocket
	268	Fifth Front Insert Pocket
	272	Sixth Front Insert Pocket
	276	Rear Insert
	280	First Rear Insert Pocket
	284	Second Rear Insert Pocket
	288	Second Pocket Zipper
	292	Third Rear Insert Pocket
	294	Fourth Rear Insert Pocket
	296	Rear Insert Width
	300	Rear Insert Height
	304	Rear Insert Fastener
	308	Left Insert
	312	Left Insert Fastener
	316	Left Insert Pocket
	320	Right Insert
	324	Right Insert Fastener
	326	Right Insert Pocket
	328	Combined Side Insert Width
	332	Side Insert Height
	336	Seventh Front Insert Pocket
	340	Eighth Front Insert Pocket
	344	Eighth Pocket Zipper
	348	Ninth Front Insert Pocket
	352	Tenth Front Insert Pocket
	356	Seventh Rear Insert Pocket
	360	Eighth Rear Insert Pocket
	364	Ninth Rear Insert Pocket
	368	Tenth Rear Insert Pocket
	372	Tenth Pocket Distance
	374	Tenth Pocket Partition
	376	Left Partition
	380	Right Partition
	384	Left Insert Second Pocket
	388	Right Insert Second Pocket
	392	Rear Insert Sleeve
	396	Eleventh Rear Insert Pocket
	400	Twelfth Rear Insert Pocket
	404	Thirteenth Rear Insert Pocket
	408	Fourteenth Rear Insert Pocket

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale, and various dimensions may be altered. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is, therefore, one aspect of the present disclosure to provide a modular bag. In particular, a flexibly-constructed baby bag is depicted and described herein. It should be appreciated that while the term “tote”, “bag”, “hand bag”, or “baby bag” may be used herein, embodiments of the present disclosure are not so limited. It should also be appreciated that the terms “front”, “rear”, “left”, and “right” may be used to describe embodiments herein, but the terms “first”, “second”, “third”, “fourth”, etc. may also be used elsewhere herein. The various aspects of the modular bag described herein can be utilized in baby bags, backpacks, purses, clutches, wallets, handbags, suitcases, courier bags, and any other type of article configured to carry one or more objects.
FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of the present invention that is structured bag 100 with a designer look that allows a person to remain stylish regardless of the contents of the bag 100. This embodiment of the present invention may be more commonly known under the brand name Cassandra Bag™. The bag 100 has a first panel 120 and a second panel 124. The first panel width 128 is approximately 17″, and the second panel width 132 is approximately 15″. The second panel height 136 is approximately 14″. The depth of the bag (not shown) is approximately 10″. The first panel 120 and the second panel 124 form one side of what may be called the outer shell of the bag 100. An opposing panel (not shown) may be disposed opposite the second panel 124 such that an interior cavity with an interior surface is formed there between.
The embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 also comprises a strap 104, which is connected to the bag 100 via two rings 108. The strap height 140 above the second panel 124 is approximately 12″, and the strap length is approximately 24″. In this particular embodiment the strap 104 is made from leather. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate a strap 104 made from a variety of materials commonly used in the bag industry such as cotton, real fur, faux fur, suede, linen, polyester, blends, rayon, silk, velvet, etc.
The bag 100 depicted in FIG. 1 may also comprise a number of additional features. For example, the bag 100 may comprise one or more feet 116 on the bottom surface of the bag 100. These feet 116 help protect the bottom surface of the bag 100 from scuffs, scrapes, and other damage when the bag 100 is placed on a surface. In this embodiment, there are four feet 116 on the bottom surface of the bag 100 where a foot 116 is disposed in each corner of the bottom surface of the bag 100. These feet 116 are square in shape, but one skilled in the art will appreciate different shapes and styles of feet 116 as well as different numbers and locations of feet 116 in various embodiments of the present invention.
Another feature disposed on the bag 100 is a logo 112. In this embodiment, the logo 112 is a LENA by Cassandra™ logo 112, and the logo 112 is visible from the front of the bag 100. One skilled in the art will appreciate an indentifying logo 112 located in a variety of locations in and on the bag 100 in a variety of different sizes and orientations.
The bag 100 in FIG. 1 may be made from a variety of materials depending on the needs of the user and the manufacturer, among others. In one embodiment, the exterior surface of the bag 100 is comprised of pebble patent leather fabric. In another embodiment, the exterior surface of the bag 100 is comprised of coated canvas fabric. One skilled in the art will appreciate different materials with different qualities to be advantageous. For example, a bag 100 made from water resistant or water proof material would be advantageous for easy cleaning. Similarly, the bag 100 in FIG. 1 may come in a variety of colors, including, but not limited to, black, camel, gray-taupe. The colors may also come in a two-tone variety with black and white, light and dark camel, and light and dark gray-taupe.
Other components may also be made from a variety of materials. For example, the feet 116, the rings 108, and/or the logo 112 may be gold plated or made from another metal material. In other embodiments, the features may be made from non-metal materials such as wood, leather, or plastic.
The bag 100 depicted in FIG. 1 may also comprise additional features to close or carry the bag 100. Magnets may be integrated into the second panel 124 and its opposing panel (not shown) to provide a force that keeps the bag 100 closed and the interior cavity secured. In other embodiments, the magnets may be exposed and guised in the form of more traditional fasteners or snaps. Further embodiments may include traditional fasteners such as snap fasteners or any other fastener that is commonly used in the bag industry.
Within the bag 100, one or more stroller clips (not shown) may be attached to the interior surface of the bag 100. These stroller clips are not visible when they are not in use because they are disposed inside of the bag 100. However, a user may extend the stroller clips upward out of the bag and attach the stroller clips to another device. Traditionally, the device is a baby stroller, which allows a user to push the baby stroller without carrying the bag 100. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate a variety of advantageous uses for stroller clips.
FIG. 2 depicts another embodiment of the present invention that is a less structured bag 100 with a slouchy, hobo style. This embodiment of the present invention may be more commonly known under the brand name Eden Bag™. The bag 100 includes a first panel 120 that has a first panel lower width 156 that is approximately 19″ and a first panel upper width 152 that is approximately 18″. The first panel 120 also has a first panel height 160 that is approximately 12″, and the bag depth (not shown) is approximately 10″.
The embodiment depicted in FIG. 2 has a strap 104 that is connected to the bag 100 via two chains 148, one chain 148 at either end of the strap 104. The combined length of the strap 104 and chains 148 is 24″. One skilled in the art will appreciate various combinations of strap 104 and chains 148 in this embodiment, including strap-only 104 and chain-only 148 configurations.
This particular embodiment includes a front flap 164 and a front pocket 168, which extends downward from the top edge of the first panel 120 by a front pocket height 172, which is approximately 6″. A panel (not shown) opposes the first panel 120 such that an interior cavity is formed there between. The front flap 164 is interconnected to the opposing panel, and the front flap 164 covers at least a portion of the front pocket 168 when viewed from a front elevation perspective. Magnets may be disposed inside of the front flap 164 and the front pocket 168 in order to keep the bag 100 closed. One skilled in the art will appreciate a variety of other fastening methods to keep the bag 100 closed, including free-floating zippers that are disposed over the interior cavity. Further, one skilled in the art will appreciate front flaps 164 and front pockets 168 in different sizes and locations that may be advantageous.
This embodiment may also comprise additional features. Like the embodiment from FIG. 1, this bag 100 may comprise at least one foot 116 to protect the bottom surface of the bag 100 from damage. Likewise, this bag 100 may also comprise stroller clips (not shown) that allow the bag 100 user to secure the bag 100 and perform other activities. Further, a logo 112 may be located on the front pocket 168.
The bag 100 in FIG. 2 may be made from a variety of materials depending on the needs of the user and the manufacturer, among others. In one embodiment, the exterior surface of the bag 100 is comprised of pebble patent leather fabric. In another embodiment, the exterior surface of the bag 100 is comprised of coated canvas fabric. One skilled in the art will appreciate different materials with different qualities that are advantageous as described elsewhere herein. Similarly, the bag 100 in FIG. 2 may come in a variety of colors, including, but not limited to, emerald, black, and gray-taupe.
FIG. 3 depicts yet another embodiment of the present invention that is a traditional messenger-style bag 100 that has a first panel 120. This embodiment of the present invention may be more commonly known under the brand name Elyse Bag™. The first panel lower width 156 is approximately 19″, and the first panel height 160 is approximately 12″. The depth of the bag 100 (not shown) is approximately 10″.
The embodiment shown in FIG. 3 has a strap 104 that is attached to the bag 100 via two side buckles 180, one proximal to each end of the strap 104. The length of the strap 104 is approximately 44″, and the side buckles 100 may serve as a location to display a logo 112. Also disposed near the top end of the bag 100 is a handle 176, which approximately extends 6″ above the top edge of the first panel 120. The handle 176 attaches to the bag 100 via two handle bases 196. The distance between the two handle bases 196 is the base-to-base distance 208, which is approximately 9″. Further, the distance between the handle bases 196 and the edge of the bag 100 is the handle-to-edge distance 212, which is approximately 5″. One skilled in the art will appreciate variable distances 208, 212 that may be advantageous.
The bag 100 in FIG. 3 also has an asymmetrical front flap 164 where a front pocket 168 is disposed. A front zipper 192 secures the opening of the front pocket 168. The length of the front zipper 192 is the same as the base-to-base distance 208, which is approximately 9″. The distance between the top edge of the bag 100 and the uppermost part of the front zipper 192 is the front zipper distance 216, which is approximately 1″.
The front flap 164 also comprises two front straps 188 that descend downward from the handle bases 196. Disposed on each front strap 188 is a front buckle 184. The front flap 120 in this embodiment is asymmetrical such that the front flap 120 has a left flap distance 200 and a right flap distance 204. In this embodiment, the left flap distance 200 is approximately 6″, and the right flap distance 204 is approximately 8″.
As with previous embodiments, the bag 100 depicted in FIG. 3 may comprise feet 116 disposed on the bottom surface of the bag, magnetic closing features disposed in the front flap 164 and the first panel 120, and stroller clips (not shown) disposed on the inner surface of the bag 100.
The bag 100 in FIG. 3 may be made from a variety of materials depending on the needs of the user and the manufacturer, among others. In one embodiment, the exterior surface of the bag 100 is comprised of pebble patent leather fabric. In another embodiment, the exterior surface of the bag 100 is comprised of coated canvas fabric. One skilled in the art will appreciate different materials with different qualities that are advantageous as described elsewhere herein. Similarly, the bag 100 in FIG. 2 may come in a variety of colors, including, but not limited to, oxblood, navy, and camel.
FIG. 4 shows a top isometric view of a bag 100 wherein all four interior sides of the bag 100 are visible. Disposed proximate the top edge of the bag 100 are four interior fasteners: a front interior fastener 220, a rear interior fastener 224, a left interior fastener 228, and a right interior fastener 232. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, the interior fasteners 220, 224, 228, 232 comprise the top half of a complete zipper and a zipping mechanism, which are used to compliment the bottom half zippers of inserts discussed in more detail below. While the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4 utilizes a zipping mechanism, one skilled in the art will appreciate many types of fastening devices commonly use in the bag industry such as clasps, latches, hooks and loops material, buttons, snaps, fasteners, magnets, etc.
FIG. 5 shows another top isometric view of a bag 100 where all four interior sides of the bag are visible. Disposed on the front side are four front interior fasteners 224. In this embodiment, the front interior fasteners 224 are the female side of snap fasteners. As discussed in further detail below, the male sides of the snap fasteners are disposed on various inserts. Likewise, disposed on the rear side are four rear interior fasteners 220. Located above the front interior fasteners 224 are two clasping features 112, and located above the rear interior fasteners 220 are two more clasping features 112. In the embodiment of the present invention depicted in FIG. 5, the clasping features 112 on the front side are the male sides of snap fasteners, and the clasping features 112 on the rear side are the female sides of the snap fasteners. The male and female sides of the clasping features 112 attach to secure the interior cavity of the bag 100.
Further disposed inside the bag are several features. First, an interior zipper 233 is located on the rear side below the four rear interior fasteners 220. The zipper 233 provides access to a pocket between the interior surface of the bag 100 and the exterior surface of the bag 100. Next, the left and right sides of the bag 100 each have an interior holder 134. These interior holders 134 have an elastic top edge so that items such as water bottles may be securely retained in the interior holders 134. Also, disposed on the front side of the bag 100 is an interior pocket 235. In this embodiment, the interior pocket 235 is partitioned into three sections by stitched seams that traverse the height of the interior pocket 235.
FIGS. 6-8 show a first series of inserts for the interior of the bag 100. The inserts depicted in FIGS. 6-8 are more commonly known by the brand name LENA Baby Insert™, and these inserts are primarily used for baby products or any other products commonly associated with young children. The inserts may be releasably attached to the interior of the bag 100 such that the inserts may be removed from time to time in order to be washed or changed out for other inserts purposed for other products besides those commonly associated with young children.
FIG. 6 shows a front insert 236 that has a front insert fastener 240 disposed along the top edge of the front insert 236. This front insert fastener 240 corresponds to the front interior fastener 220. In this embodiment, the front insert fastener 240 is the bottom portion of a zipper and would correspond to the front interior fastener 220 depicted in FIG. 4, and front insert fastener 240 would be concealed by a 1-2″ flap to keep the design clean. In this embodiment, the front insert width 244 is approximately 17-19″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 12-14″. For the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the front insert width 244 is approximately 17″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 14″. For the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the front insert width 244 is approximately 19″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 12″. One skilled in the art will appreciate that these dimensions and others described herein are only exemplary, and other embodiments of the present invention may have various sizes and dimensions.
The front insert 236 has a series of removable or modular pockets as shown in FIG. 6. It should be appreciated, however, that one or more of the pockets depicted in FIG. 6 may be non-removable and/or permanently attached to the front insert 236. The first front insert pocket 252 is approximately 6″ wide by 9″ tall. In this embodiment, the first front insert pocket 252 is purposed for carrying baby diapers. As such, the first front insert pocket 252 is comprised of a mesh and elastic material such that only one diaper or multiple diapers may be stored in the first front insert pocket 252.
The second front insert pocket 256 is approximately 4.5″ wide and 9″ tall. This particular pocket is purposed for carrying wet wipes. Likewise, the third front insert pocket 260 is also 4.5″ wide and 9″ tall, and the third front insert pocket 260 is also purposed for carrying wet wipes. The second front insert pocket 256 and the third front insert pocket 260 may also include trim.
The fourth front insert pocket 264 is releasably attached to the first front insert pocket 252. In this embodiment, the fourth front insert pocket 264 is 5″ wide and 8″ tall. The fourth front insert pocket 264 is at least partially comprised of elastic because the fourth front insert pocket 264 is purposed for carrying a changing pad upon with a person can change a baby's diaper.
The fifth front insert pocket 268 is releasably attached to the second front insert pocket 256, and the fifth front insert pocket 268 is approximately 3.5″ wide and 6.75″ tall. The fifth front insert pocket 268 is purposed for carrying various creams. Similarly, the sixth front insert pocket 272 is releasably attached to the third front insert pocket 260, and the sixth front insert pocket 272 is approximately 3.5″ wide and 6.75″ tall. In this embodiment, the sixth front insert pocket 272 is specialized for carrying pacifiers.
The fourth front insert pocket 264, the fifth front insert pocket 268, and the sixth front insert pocket 272 are attached via a variety of means. Further, the first front insert pocket 252, the second front insert pocket 256, and the third front insert pocket 260 may be attached to the front insert 236. For example, these pockets 252, 256, 260, 264, 268, 272 may be releasably attached via zippers, clasps, latches, hooks and loops material, buttons, snaps, fasteners, magnets, etc. These pockets 252, 256, 260, 264, 268, 272 may also be attached via more permanent means such as threaded stitching or adhesives. The type of attachment between components of the bag 100 depends on the frequency of the user changing inserts, the desired security or durability of the attachment, and other concerns.
In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, the front insert 236 has a first major side that is proximate to the interior surface of the bag 100, and the front insert 236 has a second major side that faces inward toward the interior cavity of the bag 100. The first front insert pocket 252, the second front insert pocket 256, and the third front insert pocket 260 are attached to the second major surface of the front insert 236. Likewise, the pockets 252, 256, 260, 264, 268, 272 also have a first major side that is proximate to the second major surface of the front insert 236, and the pockets 252, 256, 260, 264, 268, 272 have a second major side that faces the interior cavity of the bag 100.
One skilled in the art will appreciate combinations of pockets, inserts, and bags beyond that depicted in FIG. 6. The interior surface is not the only region of the bag 100 that may be used to disposed modular components of the present invention. The exterior surface of the bag 100 and the edge between the interior surface and the exterior surface of the bag 100 may include locations where modular components are disposed. The front insert 236 may have a sleeve or slit such that it has an interior cavity wherein modular components may be disposed. Further, the front insert 236 in FIG. 6 has a bottom edge, a top edge, and two side edges between the first and second major surfaces wherein modular components may be disposed.
The front insert 236 depicted in FIG. 6 has a front insert fastener 240 disposed along the top edge of the first major surface of the front insert 236. Other embodiments of the present invention may have different configurations. In other embodiments, the front insert fastener 240 is disposed along two or more edges to provide a releasable attachment that is more secure than that depicted in FIG. 6. Further yet, in other embodiments the front insert 236 may not simply comprise four sides. A front insert 236 with a round shape may have a front insert fastener 240 that circumscribes the entire edge of the first major surface of the front insert 236. This same concept in releasable attachment between first insert 236 and the bag 100 holds true for the various pockets 252, 256, 260, 264, 268, 272 whether the pockets are attached to each other, to the front insert 236, the bag 100, or another component of the present invention.
FIG. 7 shows a rear insert 276 that has a rear insert fastener 304 that is disposed along the top edge of the rear insert 276 and corresponds to the rear interior fastener 224, and the rear insert fastener 304 would be concealed by a 1-2″ flap to keep the design clean. Like the front insert 236 depicted in FIG. 6, the rear insert 276 has a rear insert width 296 of approximately 17-19″ and a rear insert height 300 of approximately 12-14″. For the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the front insert width 244 is approximately 17″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 14″. For the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the front insert width 244 is approximately 19″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 12″. One skilled in the art will appreciate that these dimensions and others described herein are only exemplary, and other embodiments of the present invention may have various sizes and dimensions.
The rear insert 276 has several pockets as shown in FIG. 7. The first rear insert pocket 280 is approximately 4″ wide and 6″ tall and may include trim. The first rear insert pocket 280 is designed to carry a person's personal belongings such as lip gloss, credit cards, cash etc., and is also known as a “Mommy Pocket.”
The second rear insert pocket 284 is disposed in the center of the rear insert 276, and the second rear insert pocket 284 is approximately 8″ wide and 6″ tall. The second rear insert pocket 284 includes a second pocket zipper 288 that provides access to the second rear insert pocket 284. The second pocket zipper 288 allows a user to securely store various items. Disposed on the front of the second rear insert pocket 284 is the fourth rear insert pocket 294, which is approximately 4″ wide and 2″ tall. The fourth rear insert pocket 294 may be comprised of an elastic material and allows a user to stow away small items such as keys.
The third rear insert pocket 292 is approximately 4″ wide and 6″ tall, and the third rear insert pocket 292 is designed to carry smaller electronic devices such as cell phones and Personal Digital Assistant devices.
FIG. 8 shows a left side insert 308 and a right side insert 320. The combined width 328 of the two inserts 308, 320 is approximately 17-19″, and the side insert height 332 is approximately 12-14″. For the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the combined side insert width 328 is approximately 17″, and the side insert height 322 is approximately 14″. For the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the combined side insert width 328 is approximately 19″, and the side insert height 322 is approximately 12″. One skilled in the art will appreciate that these dimensions and others described herein are only exemplary, and other embodiments of the present invention may have various sizes and dimensions.
The left side insert 308 has a left insert fastener 312 that corresponds to the left interior fastener 228. In this embodiment of the present invention the left insert fastener 312 is the bottom portion of a zipper that is concealed by a 1-2″ flap that keeps the design of the bag clean. Likewise, the right side insert 320 has a right insert fastener 324 that corresponds to the right interior fastener 232, and in this embodiment, the right insert fastener 324 is also the bottom portion of a zipper that may be concealed by a 1-2″ flap.
In this embodiment, the left side insert 308 comprises a left side pocket 316, and the right side insert 320 comprises a right side pocket 326. Both side pockets 316, 320 are approximately 4.5″ wide and 9″ tall. Further, both side pockets 316, 320 are made from an elastic material and are designed to secure baby bottles, sippy cups, water bottles, juice bottles, and other containers.
The inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 described in FIGS. 6-8 and their features may be made from a variety of material in addition to the materials already described above. For example, it may be advantageous for an embodiment of the present invention to be washable. To meet this condition, the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 and their features may be made from nylon or any other washable material. Other conditions and requirements may result in the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 and their features being comprised from other materials.
Further the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 and their features may be comprised of a number of colors or patterns. In one embodiment, the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 and their features are the LENA by Cassandra™ print which has both chartreuse and black coloring. Beyond patterns and colors for the purposes of design and fashion, patterns and colors may also be used for color-coding the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 or their features. For example, if the second rear insert pocket 284 contained a substance that was potentially harmful to children or even adults, a solid red coloring scheme would present a warning to others not to tamper with the contents of that particular pocket. This is also useful in the context of the Baby Insert configuration depicted in FIGS. 6-8 because children can associate colors with harm instead of a parent attempting to explain the specific nature of the potentially harmful substance to the child.
The various features of the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 may be attached to the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 in a variety of ways such that the bag is modular in nature. Using the front insert 236 as an example, the first front insert pocket 252, the second front insert pocket 256, and the third front insert pocket 260 may be attached to the front insert 236 by threaded stitching, Velcro, snaps, buttons, or any other form of attachment disclosed herein or commonly used in the bag industry. Likewise the fourth front insert pocket 264, the fifth front insert pocket 268, and the sixth front insert pocket 272 may be attached to the first front insert pocket, the second front insert pocket 256, and the third front insert pocket 260, respectively, by any of the means described herein.
The type of connection between the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 and their various features may depend on the particular application of the user. For example, if a user intends to use the bag for a single application over an extended period of time, he or she may prefer the front insert pockets 252, 256, 260, 264, 268, 272 to be attached to the front insert 236 by threaded stitching or other more permanent means of attachment. Conversely, a user may use the bag for a variety of application over a short time period, and thus, the user will require the front insert pockets 252, 256, 260, 264, 268, 272 to be releasably attached to the front insert 236 by Velcro, snaps, buttons, or other semi-permanent means of attachment. One skilled in the art will appreciate that not all connections depicted in FIGS. 6-8 are necessarily identical. For example, the first front insert pocket 252 by be attached to the front insert 236 by threaded stitching, and the fourth front insert pocket 264 may be releasably attached to the first front insert pocket 252 by a snap fastener.
The inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 may interface with one another to provide a property or characteristic to the bag 100. For example in one embodiment of the present invention, the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 may attach to one another at the edges of the inserts. The front insert 236 may comprise a releasably attachable means disposed on either of its side edges that are between its first and second major sides. The releaseably attachable means allow the front insert 236 to interface with similar releasably attachable means on the left insert 308 and right insert 320. Likewise, the rear insert 276 may interface with the left insert 308 and right insert 320.
In another embodiment, any of the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 may comprise extensions that extend beyond the insert to interface with another component of the bag 100. The front insert 236 may comprise an extension that extends downward, then across the bottom surface of the interior cavity of the bag 100. The extension may then interface with the bottom edge of the rear insert 276. The interior surface of the bag 100 is often made from less durable material than the exterior surface of the bag 100, and this extension could protect the bottom surface of the interior cavity of the bag 100 if the user is going to subject the bag 100 to harsher use.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the inserts 236, 276, 308, 324 may be combined into a single insert that essentially lines the interior surface of the bag 100. This combined insert may attach to the interior surface of the bag 100 in any of the above-described ways. This embodiment presents several advantages. The combined insert prevent any wear on the interior surface of the bag 100, and in the same vein, the combined insert can provide more complete water proof or water resistant qualities such that any spills or liquids that contact the inside of the cavity formed by the combined insert will not affect the interior surface of the bag 100.
This embodiment also provides opportunity for concealment. Pockets or other features described herein may be disposed on the interior surface of the bag 100 to carry items that the user wishes to be concealed. Then, the user may attach a combined insert to the bag 100, and other features such as flaps may disguise the fact that there are pockets or other features underneath the combined insert. This aspect of the present invention may be useful to store away particularly valuable items against theft or damage. Beyond harms, this aspect may simply keep rarely-used items out of sight from the user.
FIGS. 9-11 depict a configuration of inserts more commonly known as the Tote Insert. In contrast to the baby-oriented Baby Insert, the Tote Insert is focused on the day-to-day requirements and needs of a professional adult. FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the front insert 236, which has a front insert fastener 240 disposed along the top edge of the front insert 236. Like the embodiment described in FIG. 6, the front insert width 244 is approximately 17-19″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 12-14″. For the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the front insert width 244 is approximately 17″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 14″. For the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the front insert width 244 is approximately 19″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 12″. One skilled in the art will appreciate that these dimensions and others described herein are only exemplary, and other embodiments of the present invention may have various sizes and dimensions.
The front insert 236 has several pockets as shown in FIG. 9. The seventh front insert pocket 336 is approximately 4″ wide and 6″ tall and may include trim. The seventh front insert pocket 336 is designed to carry a person's personal belongings such as lip gloss, credit cards, cash, etc. and is also known as a “Glam Pocket.”
The eighth front insert pocket 340 is disposed in the center of the front insert 236, and the eighth front insert pocket 340 is approximately 8″ wide and 6″ tall. The eighth front insert pocket 340 includes an eighth pocket zipper 344 that provides access to the eighth front insert pocket 340. The eighth pocket zipper 344 allows a user to securely store various items. Disposed on the front of the eighth front insert pocket 340 is the tenth front insert pocket 352, which is approximately 4″ wide and 2″ tall. The tenth front insert pocket 352 may be comprised of an elastic material and allows a user to stow away small items such as keys.
The ninth front insert pocket 348 is approximately 4″ wide and 6″ tall, and the ninth front insert pocket 348 is designed to carry smaller electronic devices such as cell phones and Personal Digital Assistant devices.
FIG. 10 depicts another embodiment of the rear insert 276. Like the rear insert 276 described in FIG. 7, this rear insert 276 comprises a rear insert fastener 304 disposed along the top edge of the rear insert 276. Further, the rear insert 276 has a rear insert width 296 of approximately 17-19″ and a rear insert height 300 of approximately 12-14″. For the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the front insert width 244 is approximately 17″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 14″. For the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the front insert width 244 is approximately 19″, and the front insert height 248 is approximately 12″. One skilled in the art will appreciate that these dimensions and others described herein are only exemplary, and other embodiments of the present invention may have various sizes and dimensions.
The rear insert 276 comprises a fifth rear insert pocket 356 disposed on the left side of the rear insert 276 and a sixth rear insert pocket 360 disposed on the right side of the rear insert 276. These rear insert pockets 356, 360 are approximately 0.5″ wide and 4″ tall. In this particular embodiment of the invention, the rear insert pockets 356, 360 are configured to hold pens, pencils, styluses, markers, highlighters, or any other type of writing device.
Disposed between the fifth and sixth rear insert pockets 356, 360 is the seventh rear insert pocket 364, which is approximately 14″ wide and 10″ tall. The seventh rear insert pocket 364 is configured to carry medium-sized electronic devices such as iPads or notebook computers. On the front of the seventh rear insert pocket 364 is an eighth rear insert pocket 368 which is made of mesh. The top edge of the eighth rear insert pocket 368 is a distance 372 below the top edge of the seventh rear insert pocket 364, and that distance 372 in this embodiment is 2″. Thus, making the eighth rear insert pocket 368 approximately 14″ wide and 8″ tall. Further, the eighth rear insert pocket 368 includes a vertically oriented partition 374 that separates the eighth rear insert pocket 368 into a left section 376 and a right section 380, which are 5″ wide and 9″ wide, respectively. The left section 376 is configured to hold items such as business cards, and the right section 380 is configured to carry electronics and other implements such as papers, notes, USB drives, and device chargers.
FIG. 11 depicts the left side and right side inserts 308, 320. The combined width 328 of the two inserts 308, 320 is approximately 17-19″, and the side insert height 332 is approximately 12-14″. For the embodiment depicted in FIG. 11, the combined side insert width 328 is approximately 17″, and the side insert height 322 is approximately 14″. For the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the combined side insert width 328 is approximately 19″, and the side insert height 322 is approximately 12″. One skilled in the art will appreciate that these dimensions and others described herein are only exemplary, and other embodiments of the present invention may have various sizes and dimensions.
The left side insert 308 has a left insert fastener 312 that corresponds to the left interior fastener 228. In this embodiment of the present invention the left insert fastener 312 is the bottom portion of a zipper that is concealed by a 1-2″ flap that keeps the design of the bag clean. Likewise, the right side insert 320 has a right insert fastener 324 that corresponds to the right interior fastener 232, and in this embodiment, the right insert fastener 324 is also the bottom portion of a zipper that may be concealed by a 1-2″ flap.
In this embodiment, the left side insert 308 comprises a second left side pocket 384, and the right side insert 320 comprises a second right side pocket 388. Both side pockets 384, 388 are approximately 4.5″ wide and 9″ tall. In this embodiment, the second left side pocket 384 is mesh and designed to secure containers such as water bottles, juice bottles, protein shakes, etc. The second right side pocket 388 is elastic and designed to carry tissues, hand wipes, etc.
FIGS. 12 and 13 show a top isometric view of the bag 100. In FIG. 12, the front interior fasteners 220 are releasably attached to the front insert fasteners (shown in FIGS. 6 and 9) of the front insert 236. In this embodiment, the front interior fasteners 220 are the female side of snap fasteners, and the front insert fasteners are the male side of snap fasteners. Likewise, the rear interior fasteners 224 are releasably attached to the rear insert fasteners (shown in FIGS. 7 and 10) of the rear insert 276. The rear interior fasteners 224 and the rear insert fasteners are also the female and male sides of snap fasteners. Further in this embodiment, an interior holder 234 is disposed on side of the bag 100, and the interior holder 234 is configured to secure containers of various shapes and sizes.
FIG. 13 is also a top isometric view of the bag 100, but this view shows more detail of the rear insert 276. In this embodiment, the rear insert 276 is bisected by a rear insert sleeve 392, which may carry a variety of items with a substantially planar shape including, but not limited to, electronic devices, papers, and files.
The surface of the rear insert 276 that faces the interior of the bag 100 has several pockets. The eleventh rear insert pocket 396 is disposed on the left side of the rear insert 276 in FIG. 13, and the eleventh rear insert pocket 396 is made of mesh with an elastic band across the top edge of the eleventh rear insert pocket 396 such that any contents of the eleventh rear insert pocket 396 are secured inside. Also disposed on the rear insert 276 is the twelfth rear insert pocket 400, which is made from the same material as the rear insert. Disposed on the twelfth rear insert pocket 400 are the thirteenth and fourteenth rear insert pockets 404, 408 which are also made from the same material as the rear insert 276. These rear insert pockets 400, 404, 408 may be configured to carry a variety of items as described elsewhere herein.
The inserts depicted in FIGS. 9-13 may be made from a variety of materials, may be a variety of colors, and may be connected in a variety of ways as described in elsewhere herein.
In some embodiments, the totes may comprise an outer shell, a first removable insert configured to organize baby items, and a second removable insert that organizes other aspects of life, such as career, travel, crafts, fitness, etc. The first and/or second inserts may be removable in nature and exchanged with any other type of insert described herein. The interchangeable nature of the inserts enables multiple uses for a bag, making it a fashionable baby bag that transitions to a fashionable tote bag.
In some embodiments, the bag comprises organized functionality in the front of the bag, the back of the bag, and both sides of the bag. The inserts may be constructed as one piece, two pieces, three pieces, or four pieces, depending on the design. The number of inserts for a bag may correspond to the number of sides for the bag, although such a configuration is not required. For instance, a single insert may cover the front of the bag and a first side of the bag while a second insert may cover the back of the bag and a second side of the bag that opposes the first side. The first and second insert may interface with one another to form a completely water-tight bag liner (e.g., once connected, the inserts may be attached to or inserted into the tote shell) and any fluid that spills in the liner created by the inserts may be substantially restricted from reaching the tote shell due to the attachment of the inserts.
Each of the inserts may be equipped with one or more pockets or insert accessories that may be mesh, fabric, padded, and/or insulated. The pockets/accessories may include zippers, elastic, buttons, or Velcro and, as can be appreciated, may vary in size. Furthermore, the pockets/accessories may themselves be modular in nature, meaning that they may also be removable and interchangeable with respect to an insert. Thus, while inserts may be modular, the accessories that attach to the inserts may also be modular. For example, a first insert may be configured to receive one, two, three, or more different accessories and each accessory may attach to the first insert in a variety of ways (e.g., via zipper, latch, hook, button, snap, etc.).
The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or”, as used herein, are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B, and C”, “at least one of A, B, or C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together.
Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, dimensions, conditions, and so forth used in the specification, drawings, and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.”
The term “a” or “an” entity, as used herein, refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein.
The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” and variations thereof, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Accordingly, the terms “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof can be used interchangeably herein.
It shall be understood that the term “means” as used herein shall be given its broadest possible interpretation in accordance with 35 U.S.C., Section 112(f). Accordingly, a claim incorporating the term “means” shall cover all structures, materials, or acts set forth herein, and all of the equivalents thereof. Further, the structures, materials, or acts, and the equivalents thereof, shall include all those described in the summary of the invention, brief description of the drawings, detailed description, abstract, and claims themselves.
The foregoing description of the present invention has been presented for illustration and description purposes. However, the description is not intended to limit the invention to only the forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description for example, various features of the invention are grouped together in one or more embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the invention.
Consequently, variations and modifications commensurate with the above teachings and skill and knowledge of the relevant art are within the scope of the present invention. The embodiments described herein above are further intended to explain best modes of practicing the invention and to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention in such a manner, or include other embodiments with various modifications as required by the particular application(s) or use(s) of the present invention. Thus, it is intended that the claims be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A modular bag, comprising:

an outer shell; and

a first insert configured to be releasably attachable to the outer shell via a releasable mechanism.

2. The modular bag of claim 1, wherein the releasable mechanism comprises at least one of a zipper, clasp, latch, hook and loop material, button, snap, and magnet.

3. The modular bag of claim 1, wherein the outer shell comprises a mating releasable mechanism that interfaces with the releasable mechanism of the first insert.

4. The modular bag of claim 3, wherein the mating releasable mechanism of the outer shell is positioned proximate to an opening of the outer shell and substantially circumscribes the opening of the outer shell.

5. The modular bag of claim 4, wherein the first insert is configured to carry baby products.

6. The modular bag of claim 5, further comprising a second insert that is also configured to be releasably attachable to the outer shell via a releasable mechanism.

7. The modular bag of claim 6, wherein the first and second inserts are configured to substantially conform to an inner cavity of the outer shell, wherein the first and second inserts are interchangeable with one another, and wherein the second insert is configured to carry items other than baby products.

8. The modular bag of claim 7, wherein the releasable mechanism comprises a zipper that extends around the opening, but is positioned within the inner cavity so as to be concealed from view unless the opening is opened.

9. The modular bag of claim 1, wherein the first insert comprises at least one pocket attached thereto, the at least one pocket including at least one of mesh, insulation, a slit in a material, fabric, and elastic.

10. A modular bag, comprising:

an outer shell;

a first removable insert that is releasably attachable to an interior surface of the outer shell; and

a second removable insert that is releasably attachable to at least one of the interior surface of the outer shell and the first removable insert.

11. The bag of claim 10, wherein the second removable insert is releasably attachable to at least one of the interior surface of the outer shell and the first removable insert by at least one of a zipper, clasp, latch, hook and loop material, button, snap, and magnet.

12. The bag of claim 11, wherein the first removable insert is releasably attachable to the interior surface of the outer shell by at least one of a zipper, clasp, latch, hook and loop material, button, snap, and magnet.

13. The bag of claim 10, wherein a major surface of the first removable insert facing inward toward a cavity of the outer shell comprises at least one predetermined location to receive a removable pocket.

14. The bag of claim 10, wherein a major surface of the second removable insert facing inward toward a cavity of the outer shell comprises at least one predetermined location to receive a removable pocket.

15. The bag of claim 10, wherein the first removable insert and second removable insert are both attachable to the interior surface of the outer shell but are not attachable to one another.

16. The bag of claim 10, further comprising:

a third removable insert configured to interface with the interior surface, the first removable insert, and the second removable insert;

a fourth modular insert configured to interface with the interior surface, the first removable insert, and the second removable insert; and

wherein the second removable insert extends across at least a portion of a bottom of the interior cavity to interface with the first removable insert.

17. A removable insert configured to interface with a bag interior, the removable insert comprising a first major surface, an opposing second major surface, a top edge connecting the first and second major surfaces, a bottom edge opposing the top edge and connecting the first and second major surfaces, a first side edge adjacent to the bottom edge and top edge, and a second side edge adjacent to the bottom edge and top edge and further opposite the first side edge, wherein the first major surface is configured to face toward the bag interior and the second major surface is configured to face toward a bag cavity, and wherein at least one of the first major surface, top edge, bottom edge, first side edge, and second side edge include a releasable mechanism that enables the removable insert to be removably attached to the bag interior.

18. The insert of claim 17, wherein the releasable mechanism comprises at least one of a zipper, clasp, latch, hook and loop material, button, snap, and magnet.

19. The insert of claim 18, wherein the releasable mechanism extends along the top edge as well as the first and second side edges.

20. The insert of claim 17, wherein the second major surface is provided with at least one area configured to receive a removable pocket.