US20140339277A1 - Backpack - Google Patents
Backpack Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140339277A1 US20140339277A1 US14/364,899 US201214364899A US2014339277A1 US 20140339277 A1 US20140339277 A1 US 20140339277A1 US 201214364899 A US201214364899 A US 201214364899A US 2014339277 A1 US2014339277 A1 US 2014339277A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- backpack
- fastening elements
- engagement
- collar
- fastening
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 206010003497 Asphyxia Diseases 0.000 description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000009182 swimming Effects 0.000 description 2
- 101100325962 Arabidopsis thaliana BHLH80 gene Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005034 decoration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000012856 packing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012779 reinforcing material Substances 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C11/00—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00
- A45C11/22—Watertight containers for use while swimming
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F3/04—Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of two straps passing over the two shoulders
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/008—Details; Accessories for making water- or air-tight
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/10—Arrangement of fasteners
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F3/04—Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of two straps passing over the two shoulders
- A45F3/042—Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of two straps passing over the two shoulders specially adapted for school children
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a backpack, and particularly but not exclusively to a children's backpack providing a waterproof storage volume.
- Backpacks are widely known and used for transporting equipment or personal items.
- a typical backpack comprises at least one main storage volume that can be closed by a releasable closure, and at least one shoulder strap to allow the backpack to be comfortably carried on the back of a user.
- Backpacks are commonly used by children of school age for carrying school materials, including academic materials and sports or games kit, to and from school.
- the market for children's backpacks is well established and includes many ranges featuring characters and decoration designed to appeal to younger users.
- a common problem with standard backpacks arises when they are required to operate in wet environments. This may include for example the carrying of wet items, such as swimming kit, or the use of a backpack in a potentially very wet environment such as at a beach or on a boat.
- dry bags A typical dry bag is made from waterproof material with specialist waterproof seams and a main opening that is closed by a roll down waterproof seal. These seals include a collar of waterproof material, opposed sides of which are brought into contact with each other and then the double thickness of material is rolled or folded upon itself a number of times. This rolled seal is then curved upon itself and opposed ends are connected using releasable clips.
- the clipped ends of the seal are commonly used as a handle for transporting the dry bag.
- An example dry bag 2 is illustrated at FIG. 1 , in which the main storage volume 4 , rolled seal 6 and releasable clips 8 may all be seen.
- the ends of the seal 6 and clips 8 may also be seen to constitute the handle 10 by which the dry bag is carried.
- a backpack for use by a child comprising a storage volume and a closure operable to seal the storage volume
- the closure comprises a collar of flexible material operable to be folded at least twice upon itself and cooperating fastening elements mounted on opposing sides of the collar for releasable engagement with one another, wherein the fastening elements are constructed so as to release one another under tension exceeding a predetermined threshold value of between 15 N and 30 N.
- the threshold value may be selected according to toy and nursery safety standards applicable in countries where the invention would be marketed.
- backpacks designed and sized for very young users of the age 3 and up may be comprise fastening elements constructed to release one another at a threshold value that is considerably lower than that selected for backpacks designed for older users.
- the threshold value may be 20 N to be less than the current regulations in Europe under EN71 for strangulation breakaway strength.
- the threshold value may be 25 N.
- the fastening elements may further comprise a user operated release mechanism and may be mounted adjacent a rim of the collar.
- a first of the fastening elements may comprise a housing having an engagement opening and a second of the fastening elements may comprise a projection having an engagement shoulder which may be operable to engage the engagement opening.
- the engagement shoulder and/or the engagement opening may comprise a chamfer.
- the storage volume may be defined by a bag, and the collar of flexible material may comprise a continuation of the bag.
- the bag is formed from substantially waterproof material and may for example comprise at least one waterproof seam.
- the backpack may comprise at least one shoulder strap and according to one embodiment may comprise a pair of shoulder straps.
- the backpack may further comprise a back pad, on which the at least one shoulder strap may be mounted.
- the back pad may for example be padded and may provide additional rigidity to the backpack and/or additional comfort for a user.
- the backpack further comprises a third fastening element mounted adjacent a base of the collar, wherein each of the first and second fastening elements cooperates with the third fastening element for releasable engagement with the third fastening element.
- the third fastening element may comprise at least two engagement openings and the first and second fastening elements may each comprise projections having engagement shoulders which may be operable to engage a respective engagement opening on the third fastening element.
- the three fastening elements may further comprise a user operated release mechanism.
- the first, second and third fastening elements may be constructed to release one another under tension exceeding the threshold value of between 15 N and 30 N.
- the engagement shoulders and/or engagement openings may comprise chamfers.
- the third fastening element may be mounted on the bag.
- the third fastening element may be mounted on the back pad.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional dry bag
- FIG. 2 illustrates a first embodiment of backpack in a partially open configuration
- FIG. 3 illustrates the back pack of FIG. 2 in a closed configuration
- FIG. 4 illustrates a bag component of the backpack of FIG. 2
- FIG. 5 illustrates a first embodiment of clip in an open configuration
- FIG. 6 illustrates the clip of FIG. 5 in a closed configuration
- FIG. 7 illustrates a second embodiment of clip in an open configuration
- FIG. 8 illustrates the clip of FIG. 7 in a closed configuration
- FIG. 9 a second embodiment of backpack in a closed configuration
- FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of clip in an open configuration
- FIG. 11 illustrates the clip of FIG. 10 in a closed configuration.
- a first embodiment of backpack 20 comprises a bag 22 defining a storage volume 24 , a closure 26 , back pad 28 and shoulder straps 30 , 32 .
- the bag 22 is mounted on the back pad 28 , the back pad 28 providing additional rigidity to the bag and also providing comfort to the wearer, by cushioning the back of the wearer against the contents of the bag 22 .
- the bag 22 is formed from a tough waterproof material such as a synthetic nylon which may be treated or coated for enhanced performance.
- the closure 26 comprises a collar 34 of flexible material which, according to the present embodiment, is formed continuously with the bag 22 .
- the bag 22 is mounted on the back pad 28 such that the collar 34 projects above the upper limit of the back pad 28 and shoulder straps 30 , 32 .
- the collar 34 may be reinforced at its rim 36 for example by a strip of reinforcing material 38 extending around the rim of the collar 34 .
- the reinforcing strip 38 may impart additional rigidity to the material of the collar 34 , assisting with the necessary folding or rolling action as described in further detail below.
- the closure 26 further comprises first and second fastening elements 40 , 42 which are mounted at opposed sides of the collar 34 , and may for example be mounted substantially adjacent the rim 36 of the collar 34 .
- the fastening elements 40 , 42 may be mounted via the reinforcing strip 38 in order to provide additional security of fixation for the fastening elements 40 , 42 . Detail of the fastening elements is discussed below with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8 .
- the shoulder straps 30 , 32 are mounted via the pack pad 28 , with upper mounting locations for the shoulder straps being substantially adjacent the upper limit of the back pad 28 .
- the shoulder straps 30 , 32 may be padded for additional comfort and may comprise auxiliary pockets, straps 44 , hooks or other elements to allow for storage or carrying of small items such as a watch, sunglasses, swimming goggles etc.
- the contents of the storage volume 24 are sealed against ingress of water or other liquids by correct engagement of the closure 26 .
- This is effected by first bringing the sides of the collar 324 into contact with one another, the fastening elements 40 , 42 projecting sideways from the now double layer thickness of collar 34 .
- the double thickness collar 34 is then rolled or folded upon itself, preferably a minimum of three times.
- the reinforced strip 38 may assist with this folding or rolling motion, defining the first fold line at the lower edge 39 of the strip 38 .
- the rolled collar 34 thus forms a linear seal having fastening elements 40 , 42 projecting from each end. These ends are then curved around to approach one another, as illustrated in FIG. 2 , and the fastening elements 40 , 42 are engaged, as illustrated in FIG. 3 . In this manner, the collar is held securely and prevented from unrolling; ensuring the seal provided by the folded collar 34 remains watertight.
- the loop is defined by the diameter of the bag opening and for child use this should be kept wide as to facilitate easy packing through the opening.
- loops create strangulation hazards which present serious danger to children.
- the addition of a break away tension allows the loop to be broken at a safe tension should a child attach the loop around their neck, eradicating the risk of suffocate. This risk is further enhanced should the bag get caught on something while wearing around the neck.
- the first fastening element 40 comprises a housing 46 having two engagement openings 48 , 50 .
- the second fastening element 42 comprises three prongs or projections extending substantially parallel and including a central projection 52 and side projections 54 .
- a single side projection is described below but it will be appreciated that corresponding features are found on the other side projection.
- the side projection 54 comprises an engagement shoulder 56 formed on an outer surface of the projection and shaped to engage a base of the corresponding engagement opening 48 on the housing of the first fastening element 40 .
- the engagement shoulder may form part of an engagement ridge 55 that provides a gently tapered approach shoulder 58 facing towards the housing and the more heavily angled engagement shoulder 56 facing away from the housing.
- the fastening elements are engaged by inserting the projections of the second fastening element 42 into the housing of the first fastening element 40 .
- the side projections 54 ride into the housing along the gently tapering approach shoulders 58 before the side projections snap into place as the engagement shoulders 56 snap into engagement with the openings 48 , 50 .
- the engagement shoulder 56 does not form a right angle with the axis of the projection 54 but rather comprises a chamfer.
- the shoulder thus demonstrates a tapered profile, more heavily angled than the approach shoulder 58 but falling short of the conventional right angle employed in known fastening elements.
- This angled profile of the engagement shoulder 56 provides a connection between the engagement shoulder 56 and engagement opening 48 that is less resistant to tension forces than would be the case with a right angled shoulder.
- the profiled engagement shoulder thus provides an emergency release mechanism, by which the fastening elements 40 , 42 will release one another at tensions exceeding a predetermined threshold value. This threshold value is dictated by the angle at which the engagement shoulder extends relative to the portion of the housing 46 that defines the engagement opening 48 with which it is engaged.
- the desired threshold value, and hence required angle of engagement shoulder may be selected according to the average strength of a likely user, ensuring that in the event of an emergency, the user may pull the fastening elements apart, or indeed the fastening elements will simply disengage should the tension applied to them exceed the threshold value.
- This emergency release mechanism is particularly important in the case of children's backpacks, where the possibility exists of a strangulation hazard arising from the loop formed by the seal and fastening elements. According to the present invention, should such a situation arise, the fastening elements will either release automatically under the applied tension, or the child may pull the fastening elements apart, without needing to locate the engagement ridges 55 and apply the required inward pressure as well as tension.
- the threshold tension value at which the fastening elements disengage may be selected according to the average strength of the target user, and thus backpacks designed and sized for very young users may be comprise fastening elements constructed to release one another at a threshold value that is considerably lower than that selected for backpacks designed for older users.
- the threshold value may for example be between 15 N and 30 N. According to one embodiment, the threshold value may be 20 N. According to another embodiment the threshold value may be 25 N.
- FIGS. 7 and 8 an alternative embodiment of fastening elements 140 , 142 is illustrated, in which the engagement ridge 155 , comprising engagement shoulder 156 and approach shoulder 158 , is formed on the central projection 152 of the second fastening element 142 .
- a corresponding engagement opening 148 is formed on the housing 146 of the first fastening element 140 .
- This embodiment of fastening element functions substantially as described above, inward pressure on the engagement ridge 155 allowing disengagement of the fastening elements.
- the engagement shoulder 156 is chamfered to allow release of the fastening elements at tensions exceeding a threshold value.
- a second embodiment of backpack 60 also comprises a bag 62 defining a storage volume 64 , a closure 66 , back pad 68 and shoulder straps 70 , 72 .
- the bag 62 is mounted on the back pad 68 as in the first embodiment.
- the closure 66 operates substantially as described above with reference to the first embodiment, a collar 74 of flexible material being folded upon itself to form a seal and then the ends curved towards one another and fastened via fastening elements.
- the first and second fastening elements 80 , 82 of the second embodiment of back pack 60 each comprise central and side projections, as described above with respect to the second fastening element 42 of the first embodiment.
- the side projections comprise engagement ridges 95 having engagement shoulders 96 .
- Each of the first and second fastening elements 80 , 82 is operable to be received in a dedicated double housing formed on a third fastening element 100 .
- the third fastening element 100 is mounted via a loop 102 on the back pad 68 at an upper limit of the back pad, and hence immediately adjacent the base of the collar 74 , where the collar 74 extends from the rest of the bag 62 above the back pad 68 and shoulder straps 70 , 72 .
- the third fastening element 100 is illustrated in detail in FIGS. 9 and 10 and comprises a double housing 86 , allowing entry from two opposed sides of the housing and comprising double sized engagement openings 88 , 90 .
- Each engagement opening 88 , 90 is of sufficient size to admit two engagement ridges 95 , one from each of the first and second fastening elements 80 , 82 .
- the backpack 60 of the second embodiment is sealed by folding the collar 74 as described above and fastening the ends of the folded or rolled collar together via the first, second and third fastening elements 80 , 82 , 100 .
- the third fastening element is both essential for joining the ends of the seal, and so forming the loop, and also securely anchors the otherwise free part of the loop to the back pad 68 .
- the anchored loop cannot therefore be closed around a child's neck.
- the engagement shoulders 96 of the first and second fastening elements 80 , 82 may comprise chamfers as described with reference to the first embodiment, thus providing the additional safety feature of an emergency release mechanism.
- first and second fastening elements 80 , 82 of the second embodiment may also take the form illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 , with the third fastening element comprising an appropriate double engagement opening. It will also be appreciated that any other of the features described in relation to the first embodiment of backpack 20 may be incorporated into the second embodiment of backpack 60 , and vice versa.
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Abstract
A backpack particularly suited to children's use is disclosed. The backpack 20 comprises a storage volume 24 and a closure 26 operable to seal the storage volume 24, wherein the closure 26 comprises a collar 34 of flexible material operable to be folded at least twice upon itself and cooperating first and second fastening elements 40, 42 mounted on opposing sides of the collar 34 for releasable engagement with one another. The fastening elements 40, 42 are constructed to release one another under tension exceeding a threshold value. Also disclosed is a backpack 60 comprising a similar storage volume 64 and closure 66 but including an additional fastening element 100 mounted at the base of the collar 74, with which both the first and second fastening elements 80, 82 engage.
Description
- The present invention relates to a backpack, and particularly but not exclusively to a children's backpack providing a waterproof storage volume.
- Backpacks are widely known and used for transporting equipment or personal items. A typical backpack comprises at least one main storage volume that can be closed by a releasable closure, and at least one shoulder strap to allow the backpack to be comfortably carried on the back of a user. Backpacks are commonly used by children of school age for carrying school materials, including academic materials and sports or games kit, to and from school. The market for children's backpacks is well established and includes many ranges featuring characters and decoration designed to appeal to younger users.
- A common problem with standard backpacks arises when they are required to operate in wet environments. This may include for example the carrying of wet items, such as swimming kit, or the use of a backpack in a potentially very wet environment such as at a beach or on a boat. For adult consumers, the market includes products designed specifically for these circumstances, usually known as dry bags. A typical dry bag is made from waterproof material with specialist waterproof seams and a main opening that is closed by a roll down waterproof seal. These seals include a collar of waterproof material, opposed sides of which are brought into contact with each other and then the double thickness of material is rolled or folded upon itself a number of times. This rolled seal is then curved upon itself and opposed ends are connected using releasable clips. The clipped ends of the seal are commonly used as a handle for transporting the dry bag. An example
dry bag 2 is illustrated atFIG. 1 , in which themain storage volume 4, rolledseal 6 andreleasable clips 8 may all be seen. The ends of theseal 6 andclips 8 may also be seen to constitute thehandle 10 by which the dry bag is carried. - While dry bags fulfil the adult need for waterproof transport of items and equipment, there remains a need for waterproof carrying solutions for younger users including children of school age.
- According to the present invention, there is provided a backpack for use by a child, the backpack comprising a storage volume and a closure operable to seal the storage volume, wherein the closure comprises a collar of flexible material operable to be folded at least twice upon itself and cooperating fastening elements mounted on opposing sides of the collar for releasable engagement with one another, wherein the fastening elements are constructed so as to release one another under tension exceeding a predetermined threshold value of between 15 N and 30 N.
- The threshold value may be selected according to toy and nursery safety standards applicable in countries where the invention would be marketed. Thus, for example, backpacks designed and sized for very young users of the age 3 and up may be comprise fastening elements constructed to release one another at a threshold value that is considerably lower than that selected for backpacks designed for older users. According to one embodiment, the threshold value may be 20 N to be less than the current regulations in Europe under EN71 for strangulation breakaway strength. According to another embodiment the threshold value may be 25 N.
- The fastening elements may further comprise a user operated release mechanism and may be mounted adjacent a rim of the collar.
- A first of the fastening elements may comprise a housing having an engagement opening and a second of the fastening elements may comprise a projection having an engagement shoulder which may be operable to engage the engagement opening.
- The engagement shoulder and/or the engagement opening may comprise a chamfer.
- The storage volume may be defined by a bag, and the collar of flexible material may comprise a continuation of the bag.
- The bag is formed from substantially waterproof material and may for example comprise at least one waterproof seam.
- The backpack may comprise at least one shoulder strap and according to one embodiment may comprise a pair of shoulder straps.
- The backpack may further comprise a back pad, on which the at least one shoulder strap may be mounted. The back pad may for example be padded and may provide additional rigidity to the backpack and/or additional comfort for a user.
- In one example, the backpack further comprises a third fastening element mounted adjacent a base of the collar, wherein each of the first and second fastening elements cooperates with the third fastening element for releasable engagement with the third fastening element. By mounting the third fastening element on the backpack, the loop diameter is cut in half and thereby reduces the length so that a child could fasten around their neck.
- The third fastening element may comprise at least two engagement openings and the first and second fastening elements may each comprise projections having engagement shoulders which may be operable to engage a respective engagement opening on the third fastening element.
- The three fastening elements may further comprise a user operated release mechanism.
- The first, second and third fastening elements may be constructed to release one another under tension exceeding the threshold value of between 15 N and 30 N.
- According to one embodiment, the engagement shoulders and/or engagement openings may comprise chamfers.
- The third fastening element may be mounted on the bag. The third fastening element may be mounted on the back pad.
- For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the following drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional dry bag; -
FIG. 2 illustrates a first embodiment of backpack in a partially open configuration; -
FIG. 3 illustrates the back pack ofFIG. 2 in a closed configuration; -
FIG. 4 illustrates a bag component of the backpack ofFIG. 2 -
FIG. 5 illustrates a first embodiment of clip in an open configuration; -
FIG. 6 illustrates the clip ofFIG. 5 in a closed configuration; -
FIG. 7 illustrates a second embodiment of clip in an open configuration; -
FIG. 8 illustrates the clip ofFIG. 7 in a closed configuration; -
FIG. 9 a second embodiment of backpack in a closed configuration; -
FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of clip in an open configuration; and -
FIG. 11 illustrates the clip ofFIG. 10 in a closed configuration. - Embodiments of a backpack according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- Referring initially to
FIGS. 2 and 3 , a first embodiment ofbackpack 20 according to the present invention comprises abag 22 defining astorage volume 24, aclosure 26,back pad 28 andshoulder straps bag 22 is mounted on theback pad 28, theback pad 28 providing additional rigidity to the bag and also providing comfort to the wearer, by cushioning the back of the wearer against the contents of thebag 22. - The
bag 22 is formed from a tough waterproof material such as a synthetic nylon which may be treated or coated for enhanced performance. - With reference also to
FIG. 4 , theclosure 26 comprises acollar 34 of flexible material which, according to the present embodiment, is formed continuously with thebag 22. Thebag 22 is mounted on theback pad 28 such that thecollar 34 projects above the upper limit of theback pad 28 andshoulder straps collar 34 may be reinforced at itsrim 36 for example by a strip of reinforcingmaterial 38 extending around the rim of thecollar 34. The reinforcingstrip 38 may impart additional rigidity to the material of thecollar 34, assisting with the necessary folding or rolling action as described in further detail below. Theclosure 26 further comprises first andsecond fastening elements collar 34, and may for example be mounted substantially adjacent therim 36 of thecollar 34. According to one embodiment, thefastening elements reinforcing strip 38 in order to provide additional security of fixation for thefastening elements FIGS. 5 to 8 . - Referring again to
FIGS. 2 and 3 , theshoulder straps pack pad 28, with upper mounting locations for the shoulder straps being substantially adjacent the upper limit of theback pad 28. Theshoulder straps straps 44, hooks or other elements to allow for storage or carrying of small items such as a watch, sunglasses, swimming goggles etc. - In use, the contents of the
storage volume 24 are sealed against ingress of water or other liquids by correct engagement of theclosure 26. This is effected by first bringing the sides of the collar 324 into contact with one another, thefastening elements collar 34. Thedouble thickness collar 34 is then rolled or folded upon itself, preferably a minimum of three times. The reinforcedstrip 38 may assist with this folding or rolling motion, defining the first fold line at thelower edge 39 of thestrip 38. The rolledcollar 34 thus forms a linear seal havingfastening elements FIG. 2 , and thefastening elements FIG. 3 . In this manner, the collar is held securely and prevented from unrolling; ensuring the seal provided by the foldedcollar 34 remains watertight. - The loop is defined by the diameter of the bag opening and for child use this should be kept wide as to facilitate easy packing through the opening. However loops create strangulation hazards which present serious danger to children. The addition of a break away tension allows the loop to be broken at a safe tension should a child attach the loop around their neck, eradicating the risk of suffocate. This risk is further enhanced should the bag get caught on something while wearing around the neck. However in the adult market it is desirable to have a no break away clip to keep contents dry at all times, especially during extreme activities.
- Referring now to
FIGS. 5 and 6 , the first andsecond fastening elements first fastening element 40 comprises ahousing 46 having twoengagement openings second fastening element 42 comprises three prongs or projections extending substantially parallel and including acentral projection 52 andside projections 54. A single side projection is described below but it will be appreciated that corresponding features are found on the other side projection. Theside projection 54 comprises anengagement shoulder 56 formed on an outer surface of the projection and shaped to engage a base of the corresponding engagement opening 48 on the housing of thefirst fastening element 40. The engagement shoulder may form part of anengagement ridge 55 that provides a gently tapered approach shoulder 58 facing towards the housing and the more heavily angledengagement shoulder 56 facing away from the housing. The fastening elements are engaged by inserting the projections of thesecond fastening element 42 into the housing of thefirst fastening element 40. Theside projections 54 ride into the housing along the gently tapering approach shoulders 58 before the side projections snap into place as the engagement shoulders 56 snap into engagement with theopenings engagement ridges 55, disengaging the engagement shoulders 56 and allowing the fastening elements to be pulled apart. - Referring again to a single side projection, the
engagement shoulder 56 does not form a right angle with the axis of theprojection 54 but rather comprises a chamfer. The shoulder thus demonstrates a tapered profile, more heavily angled than the approach shoulder 58 but falling short of the conventional right angle employed in known fastening elements. This angled profile of theengagement shoulder 56 provides a connection between theengagement shoulder 56 andengagement opening 48 that is less resistant to tension forces than would be the case with a right angled shoulder. The profiled engagement shoulder thus provides an emergency release mechanism, by which thefastening elements housing 46 that defines theengagement opening 48 with which it is engaged. The desired threshold value, and hence required angle of engagement shoulder, may be selected according to the average strength of a likely user, ensuring that in the event of an emergency, the user may pull the fastening elements apart, or indeed the fastening elements will simply disengage should the tension applied to them exceed the threshold value. This emergency release mechanism is particularly important in the case of children's backpacks, where the possibility exists of a strangulation hazard arising from the loop formed by the seal and fastening elements. According to the present invention, should such a situation arise, the fastening elements will either release automatically under the applied tension, or the child may pull the fastening elements apart, without needing to locate theengagement ridges 55 and apply the required inward pressure as well as tension. - As discussed above, the threshold tension value at which the fastening elements disengage may be selected according to the average strength of the target user, and thus backpacks designed and sized for very young users may be comprise fastening elements constructed to release one another at a threshold value that is considerably lower than that selected for backpacks designed for older users. The threshold value may for example be between 15 N and 30 N. According to one embodiment, the threshold value may be 20 N. According to another embodiment the threshold value may be 25 N.
- Referring now to
FIGS. 7 and 8 , an alternative embodiment offastening elements 140, 142 is illustrated, in which theengagement ridge 155, comprisingengagement shoulder 156 andapproach shoulder 158, is formed on the central projection 152 of the second fastening element 142. Acorresponding engagement opening 148 is formed on thehousing 146 of thefirst fastening element 140. This embodiment of fastening element functions substantially as described above, inward pressure on theengagement ridge 155 allowing disengagement of the fastening elements. Similarly, theengagement shoulder 156 is chamfered to allow release of the fastening elements at tensions exceeding a threshold value. - Referring now to
FIGS. 9 to 11 , a second embodiment ofbackpack 60 according to the present invention also comprises abag 62 defining astorage volume 64, aclosure 66, backpad 68 andshoulder straps bag 62 is mounted on theback pad 68 as in the first embodiment. Theclosure 66 operates substantially as described above with reference to the first embodiment, a collar 74 of flexible material being folded upon itself to form a seal and then the ends curved towards one another and fastened via fastening elements. In contrast to the first embodiment, the first andsecond fastening elements back pack 60 each comprise central and side projections, as described above with respect to thesecond fastening element 42 of the first embodiment. The side projections compriseengagement ridges 95 having engagement shoulders 96. Each of the first andsecond fastening elements third fastening element 100. Thethird fastening element 100 is mounted via aloop 102 on theback pad 68 at an upper limit of the back pad, and hence immediately adjacent the base of the collar 74, where the collar 74 extends from the rest of thebag 62 above theback pad 68 andshoulder straps third fastening element 100 is illustrated in detail inFIGS. 9 and 10 and comprises adouble housing 86, allowing entry from two opposed sides of the housing and comprising doublesized engagement openings 88, 90. Eachengagement opening 88, 90 is of sufficient size to admit twoengagement ridges 95, one from each of the first andsecond fastening elements - The
backpack 60 of the second embodiment is sealed by folding the collar 74 as described above and fastening the ends of the folded or rolled collar together via the first, second andthird fastening elements back pad 68. The anchored loop cannot therefore be closed around a child's neck. According to one embodiment, the engagement shoulders 96 of the first andsecond fastening elements second fastening elements FIGS. 7 and 8 , with the third fastening element comprising an appropriate double engagement opening. It will also be appreciated that any other of the features described in relation to the first embodiment ofbackpack 20 may be incorporated into the second embodiment ofbackpack 60, and vice versa.
Claims (18)
1. A backpack for use by a child, the backpack comprising a storage volume and a closure operable to seal the storage volume, wherein the closure comprises a collar of flexible material operable to be folded at least twice upon itself and cooperating fastening elements mounted on opposing sides of the collar for releasable engagement with one another, wherein the fastening elements are constructed so as to release one another under tension exceeding a predetermined threshold value of between 15 N and 30 N.
2. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the fastening elements further comprise a user operated release mechanism.
3. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the fastening elements are mounted adjacent a rim of the collar.
4. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a first of the fastening elements comprises a housing having an engagement opening and a second of the fastening elements comprises a projection having an engagement shoulder which is operable to engage the engagement opening.
5. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a first of the fastening elements comprises a housing having an engagement opening and a second of the fastening elements comprises a projection having an engagement shoulder which is operable to engage the engagement opening, and which comprises a chamfer.
6. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a first of the fastening elements comprises a housing having an engagement opening and a second of the fastening elements comprises a projection having an engagement shoulder which is operable to engage the engagement opening, and wherein the engagement opening comprises a chamfer.
7. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the storage volume is defined by a bag, and the collar of flexible material comprises a continuation of the bag.
8. A backpack as claimed in claim 7 , wherein the storage volume is defined by a bag, and the collar of flexible material comprises a continuation of the bag, and wherein the bag is formed from substantially waterproof material.
9. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the backpack comprises at least one shoulder strap.
10. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the backpack comprises at least one shoulder strap, a back pad, on which the at least one shoulder strap is mounted.
11. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a third fastening element mounted adjacent a base of the collar, wherein each of the first and second fastening elements cooperates with the third fastening element for releasable engagement with the third fastening element.
12. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a third fastening element mounted adjacent a base of the collar, wherein each of the first and second fastening elements cooperates with the third fastening element for releasable engagement with the third fastening element, and wherein the third fastening element comprises at least two engagement openings and the first and second fastening elements each comprise projections having engagement shoulders operable to engage a respective engagement opening on the third fastening element.
13. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a third fastening element mounted adjacent a base of the collar, wherein each of the first and second fastening elements cooperates with the third fastening element for releasable engagement with the third fastening element, and wherein the fastening elements further comprise a user operated release mechanism.
14. A backpack as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a third fastening element mounted adjacent a base of the collar, wherein each of the first and second fastening elements cooperates with the third fastening element for releasable engagement with the third fastening element, and wherein the first, second and third fastening elements are constructed to release one another under tension exceeding a threshold value of between 15 N and 30 N.
15. (canceled)
16. (canceled)
17. (canceled)
18. (canceled)
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1121896.3 | 2011-12-20 | ||
GB201121896A GB201121896D0 (en) | 2011-12-20 | 2011-12-20 | Backpack |
WOPCTGB2012052962 | 2012-11-30 | ||
PCT/GB2012/052962 WO2013093413A1 (en) | 2011-12-20 | 2012-11-30 | Backpack |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20140339277A1 true US20140339277A1 (en) | 2014-11-20 |
Family
ID=45572704
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/364,899 Abandoned US20140339277A1 (en) | 2011-12-20 | 2012-11-30 | Backpack |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20140339277A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2793636A1 (en) |
CN (3) | CN202858188U (en) |
GB (2) | GB201121896D0 (en) |
HK (1) | HK1191193A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2013093413A1 (en) |
Cited By (12)
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---|---|---|---|---|
US20170021221A1 (en) * | 2015-07-25 | 2017-01-26 | Matthew Joseph Hannula | Versatile exercise apparatus with adjustable volume to weight ratio |
USD787815S1 (en) * | 2015-05-14 | 2017-05-30 | John Davison | Backpack |
US20180303211A1 (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2018-10-25 | Nick Nowak | Multi-Compartment Portable Storage Unit |
USD878742S1 (en) * | 2019-09-30 | 2020-03-24 | Zhong Xu | Dry bag |
USD904009S1 (en) * | 2018-06-04 | 2020-12-08 | Geckobrands, LLC | Dry bag with zipper |
USD904010S1 (en) * | 2018-08-31 | 2020-12-08 | Catalyst Lifestyle Limited | Backpack |
US20210093060A1 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2021-04-01 | Load Lugger, Llc | Selectively sealable evacuable storage bag and method of making and using the same |
US20210244142A1 (en) * | 2018-06-08 | 2021-08-12 | Overade | Protection and storage bag with roll-up closure |
USD952470S1 (en) * | 2020-01-02 | 2022-05-24 | Elliott Importing Pty Ltd | Baguette bag |
US11363877B2 (en) | 2019-10-18 | 2022-06-21 | Catalyst Lifestyle Limited | Backpack system having a deployable frame |
US20220346511A1 (en) * | 2021-04-28 | 2022-11-03 | Hyperlite Mountain Gear Inc. | Side entry pod stuff sack |
USD990157S1 (en) | 2019-03-29 | 2023-06-27 | Load Lugger, Llc | Selectively sealable evacuable storage bag |
Families Citing this family (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB201121896D0 (en) * | 2011-12-20 | 2012-02-01 | Magmatic Ltd | Backpack |
NL2017322B1 (en) * | 2016-08-17 | 2018-02-23 | Fatboy The Original B V | Air bag |
US10111565B2 (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2018-10-30 | Black & Decker Inc. | Backpack blower vac collection bag |
AT520047B1 (en) * | 2017-06-14 | 2019-10-15 | Ing Hans Julian Dzugan | Auffanggurtvorrichtung |
IT201900024409A1 (en) * | 2019-12-18 | 2021-06-18 | Globe Soc Cooperativa | AIRTIGHT PRESSURE TERTIARY CONTAINER FOR CERTIFIED TRANSPORT |
US20210244147A1 (en) * | 2020-02-11 | 2021-08-12 | Weber-Stephen Products Llc | Dry bags for storing solid cooking fuels |
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-
2011
- 2011-12-20 GB GB201121896A patent/GB201121896D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2012
- 2012-05-31 CN CN201220254204.4U patent/CN202858188U/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2012-05-31 CN CN2012101767685A patent/CN102669925A/en active Pending
- 2012-11-28 GB GB1221411.0A patent/GB2501958B/en active Active
- 2012-11-30 EP EP12801625.0A patent/EP2793636A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2012-11-30 WO PCT/GB2012/052962 patent/WO2013093413A1/en active Application Filing
- 2012-11-30 CN CN201290001081.1U patent/CN204317770U/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2012-11-30 US US14/364,899 patent/US20140339277A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2014
- 2014-05-12 HK HK14104447.5A patent/HK1191193A1/en unknown
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US630694A (en) * | 1899-05-08 | 1899-08-08 | Daniel Roby Hering | Mail bag or pouch. |
US4125212A (en) * | 1977-03-03 | 1978-11-14 | Luc Courchesne | Portable utility bag |
US5604964A (en) * | 1995-03-28 | 1997-02-25 | Nifco, Inc. | Buckle |
Cited By (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD787815S1 (en) * | 2015-05-14 | 2017-05-30 | John Davison | Backpack |
US9999798B2 (en) * | 2015-07-25 | 2018-06-19 | Matthew Joseph Hannula | Versatile exercise apparatus with adjustable volume to weight ratio |
US20170021221A1 (en) * | 2015-07-25 | 2017-01-26 | Matthew Joseph Hannula | Versatile exercise apparatus with adjustable volume to weight ratio |
US10905210B2 (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2021-02-02 | Nick Nowak | Multi-compartment portable storage unit |
US20180303211A1 (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2018-10-25 | Nick Nowak | Multi-Compartment Portable Storage Unit |
USD904009S1 (en) * | 2018-06-04 | 2020-12-08 | Geckobrands, LLC | Dry bag with zipper |
US20210244142A1 (en) * | 2018-06-08 | 2021-08-12 | Overade | Protection and storage bag with roll-up closure |
USD904010S1 (en) * | 2018-08-31 | 2020-12-08 | Catalyst Lifestyle Limited | Backpack |
US20210093060A1 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2021-04-01 | Load Lugger, Llc | Selectively sealable evacuable storage bag and method of making and using the same |
USD990157S1 (en) | 2019-03-29 | 2023-06-27 | Load Lugger, Llc | Selectively sealable evacuable storage bag |
US11937676B2 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2024-03-26 | Load Lugger, Llc | Selectively sealable evacuable storage bag and method of making and using the same |
USD878742S1 (en) * | 2019-09-30 | 2020-03-24 | Zhong Xu | Dry bag |
US11363877B2 (en) | 2019-10-18 | 2022-06-21 | Catalyst Lifestyle Limited | Backpack system having a deployable frame |
USD952470S1 (en) * | 2020-01-02 | 2022-05-24 | Elliott Importing Pty Ltd | Baguette bag |
US20220346511A1 (en) * | 2021-04-28 | 2022-11-03 | Hyperlite Mountain Gear Inc. | Side entry pod stuff sack |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2793636A1 (en) | 2014-10-29 |
GB201121896D0 (en) | 2012-02-01 |
HK1191193A1 (en) | 2014-07-25 |
GB2501958A (en) | 2013-11-13 |
WO2013093413A1 (en) | 2013-06-27 |
GB201221411D0 (en) | 2013-01-09 |
GB2501958B (en) | 2014-08-13 |
CN202858188U (en) | 2013-04-10 |
CN204317770U (en) | 2015-05-13 |
CN102669925A (en) | 2012-09-19 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: MAGMATIC LIMITED, GREAT BRITAIN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:LAW, ROBERT;REEL/FRAME:033584/0739 Effective date: 20140725 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |