US20190008256A1

US20190008256A1 - Customizable device cases and bags

Info

Publication number: US20190008256A1
Application number: US16/073,737
Authority: US
Inventors: Carrie D. Basham
Original assignee: Carrie Basham Design And Conssulting LLC
Current assignee: Carrie Basham Design And Conssulting LLC
Priority date: 2016-01-29
Filing date: 2017-01-27
Publication date: 2019-01-10
Also published as: WO2017132598A1

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to a system for customizing a device case or bag. Non-limiting examples of device cases include cases for laptops, tablets, and cell phones. Non-limiting examples of bags include purses, briefcases, portfolio, backpacks, satchels, totes, camera, messenger, duffel, athletic, firearm, waist/fanny pack, and travel. More specifically the present disclosure relates to customizable features for the device cases and bags such as removable handles and removable multifunctional pieces. In some embodiments, the multifunctional piece may be a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone holder, an e-reader holder, a tablet holder, a wallet, a purse, a clutch, a card holder, a firearm case, a camera case, and a solar charging station.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application No. 62/289,177, entitled, “Customizable Tech Accessory and Handbag System for Electronic Devices,” filed on Jan. 29, 2016. The entire contents of the related application are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a system for customizing a device case or bag. Non-limiting examples of device cases include cases for laptops, tablets, and cell phones. Non-limiting examples of bags include, handbags, purses, briefcases, portfolio, backpacks, satchels, totes, camera, messenger, duffel, athletic, waist/fanny pack, and travel. More specifically the present disclosure relates to customizable features for the device cases and bags such as removable handles and removable multifunctional pieces. In some embodiments, the multifunctional piece may be a mouse pad, card holder, zippered bag, purse/clutch, organizer, or solar panel.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditional laptop cases, tablet sleeves, cell phone holders, (herein collectively referred to as “cases”) and other bags are either purely functional while lacking in design or an attempt at design is made while limiting functionality. The industry offers basic colors and patterns generally in neoprene fabric and some leather choices. Synthetic and genuine leathers are also available in basic colors. Laptop cases have a combination of handle with accompanying shoulder strap that is removable/fixed, one without the other, or neither. There are no multi-functional, completely interchangeable parts on laptop cases, tablet sleeves, cell phone cases, and handbags currently on the market. Presently, there are a number of solutions for the functionality aspects of the tech accessories and handbag industry, but the solutions fail to meet the needs of the consumer because the products lack innovative design which enables the cases and bags to convert and adapt into multiple products. Still other solutions seek to offer the customization of design, but these solutions are limited once purchased, lacking in interchangeability which makes them unable to fill the void in the industry of a true multi-functional custom designed product with the ability for continuous customization at minimal cost. Additionally, there is little focus on fashion in the customization aspects in the cases offered on the market. Available cases which are customizable aren't also interchangeable, removable, or multi-functional.
It would be desirable to have a system for customization of cases or bags which serves both function and fashion in one product. Furthermore, it would also be desirable that the function and fashion uses of the system are customizable to the likes of the user. This enables the user to create new looks, lifestyle expressions or statements, advertisement and designs without buying an entirely new case or bag for different situations, environments, or occasions. Therefore, there currently exists a need in the market for a customizable, multi-functional case system for electronic devices as well as customizable, multi-functional bag systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention advantageously fills the aforementioned deficiencies by providing a customizable, multi-functional case or bag system which allows the user to customize the case or bag in order to function as either a handle-held case or bag or as a carrying sleeve, attachê, or portfolio. At the same time, the user may customize the case or bag through the use of a removable multifunctional piece. In one embodiment, the removable multifunctional piece is attached to the outside of the case or bag using an attachable/detachable system such as snaps, magnetic snaps, buttons, buckles, clips, ties, magnets, zippers, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro® fastener), touch fasteners, suction cups, buckles with magnetic snaps, swing locks, turn locks, cinch plate, tuck lock, hooks, clasp hook, spring snap hooks, spring snap, fireman hook, trigger snap, swivel snaps, squeeze clasp, etc. In another embodiment, the removable multifunctional piece is attached to the inside of the case or bag using an attachable/detachable snaps, magnetic snaps, buttons, buckles, clips, ties, magnets, zippers, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro® fastener), touch fasteners, suction cups, buckles with magnetic snaps, swing locks, turn locks, cinch plate, tuck lock, hooks, clasp hook, spring snap hooks, spring snap, fireman hook, trigger snap, swivel snaps, squeeze clasp, etc. The removable multifunctional piece may serve the dual purpose of an interchangeable, detachable fashion element as well as a functional element. Non-limiting fashion elements include customized print, a pattern, a texture, a design, a logo, a trademark, an advertisement, a lifestyle expression, a religious expression, a political expression, and a philosophical expression. The design may be made using various techniques such as beads, stitching/embroidery, rhinestones, embossing, tooling, carving, and the like. The logos or trademarks may be for schools, companies, military branch, religious groups, political groups, government agencies, organizational groups, charities, or sports teams. Non-limiting functional elements include a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone case, a camera bag, an e-reader case, a tablet case, a wallet, a purse/clutch, a card holder, a gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, or a solar charging station.
The core components of the invention include the case or bag may be made from various materials with a main compartment of the case or bag and a zipper or latch fastener; one or more outside pockets; the interchangeable removable multifunctional piece, made from various materials, attached to the front side of the case or bag; and removable handles made from matching or contrasting material attaching/detaching to the case or bag. The general configuration of the system is as follows: case or bag with removable handles fastened for hand holding similar to the way a briefcase is held or, detached, making the case or bag a sleeve, attaché, or portfolio and held in the arm or under the arm like a book. The interchangeable removable multifunctional piece is fastened for a fashion accessory, advertising, lifestyle expression or statement accessory and detached may be utilized as a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone case, a camera bag, an e-reader case, a tablet case, a wallet, a purse/clutch, a card holder, a gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, or a solar charging station if desired, to both the case and bag. The invention is a system which provides interchangeability of function and design in a single product through customization by the user.
The present invention is a customizable, multi-functional case or bag system which may be made from various materials. Non-limiting materials include fabric, leather, canvas, metal, plastic, waterproof parachute, nylon, denim, corduroy, or flame retardant fabrics among other materials. A main compartment with a zipper or latch fastener; one or more side pockets with or without a fastener; interchangeable removable multifunctional piece on the front side also made of various materials—fabric, leather, metal, or plastic, among other material, in different sizes, shapes, and portraiture for customization and; a matching or non-matching removable handles that attach/detach to the case. The removable components of the case are connected by way of using an attachable/detachable system such as snaps, magnetic snaps, buttons, buckles, clips, ties, magnets, zippers, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro® fastener), touch fasteners, suction cups, buckles with magnetic snaps, swing locks, turn locks, cinch plate, tuck lock, hooks, clasp hook, spring snap hooks, spring snap, fireman hook, trigger snap, swivel snaps, squeeze clasp, or other attachment method capable of securing one side to the case and releasing the interchangeable removable multifunctional piece or removable handles. All of which facilitate the functional, customizable and interchangeable system of the invention.
The interchangeable removable multifunctional piece may also be fastened by an attachment method which may be visible or hidden; materials for the removable multifunctional piece may include: genuine or synthetic leather, canvas, waterproof parachute, nylon, denim, corduroy, metal, plastic or flame retardant fabrics, among other materials. All materials used can be customized in a manner such as: embroidery, beadwork, printing, stamping, embossing, or other embellishment such as conchos, nailheads, studs, and rhinestones. Leather material may include snake, alligator, shark, ostrich, crocodile, lizard or other exotic leather as well as domestic leather such as cow, lamb and goat among others. The leathers can be metallic, embossed, or printed and be customized in a manner such as embroidery, acid-washing and various embellishments such as conchos, nailheads, beadwork, stitching, studs and rhinestones. Additionally, the interchangeable removable multifunctional piece may be further customized in different shapes, sizes, and portraiture to completely change the look of the case or bag. The interchangeable removable multifunctional piece may also be applied to many items such as: clothing, firearm cases, backpacks, travel gear, book covers, caps/hats, mobile device cases among other items. The removable handles, itself, may be an option converting the customizable case from an electronic device carrying case into a customizable electronic device sleeve, only. Any type of case, handbag, traveling bag or case, among many other items can be designed to receive a customized removable piece; removable multifunctional piece; or removable handle. Optional pockets may be added to the inside or outside of the case or bag. An optional detachable shoulder strap attaches to a D-ring Tab attached to the front and back inner panels of the case or bag in addition to the handle.
The present invention is unique when compared with other known laptop and tablet cases because the present invention provides a system of interchangeable customization permitting the user to configure, design, and re-design the interchangeable removable multifunctional piece exactly as the user desires. Continuous interchangeability of the removable multifunctional piece allows the product to take on a whole new look creating an entirely new design at minimal cost. Additionally, the dual use of the removable multifunctional piece as a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone case, a camera bag, an e-reader case, a tablet case, a wallet, a purse/clutch, a card holder, a gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, or a solar charging station if desired, along with the removable handles allowing the carrying case to convert to a sleeve, attachê, or portfolio and back again creates a multi-functional product.
The present invention is further unique because of the interchangeable removable multifunctional piece and the removable handles. An additional embodiment may be a The removable multifunctional piece and removable handles provide the versatility of interchangeability and functionality which allows the user to customize their case and bag to their liking and use the removable multifunctional piece, detached, as a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone case, a camera bag, an e-reader case, a tablet case, a wallet, a purse/clutch, a card holder, a gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, or a solar charging station if desired. At the same time with the snap on/snap off function of the removable handles the user can convert a carrying case to a sleeve and back again. The customization system makes two products in one. Further the interchangeable removable multifunctional pieces and removable handles transform the original case or bag into a new functional and creatively expressive product each time a change is made. Any type of bag, case, backpack, handbag, or other items previously disclosed can be designed to receive a customized removable piece like a removable multifunctional piece or removable handle.
Among other things, it is an object of the present invention to provide a system for customization of cases and bags.
Further, an object of the present invention is to provide an economical way for continuous customization of one product to meet various needs of the user.
Further still, it is an object of the present invention through its continuous customization to provide multiple functional products in one.
The present invention now will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are intended to be read in conjunction with both this summary, the detailed description and any preferred and/or particular embodiments specifically discussed or otherwise disclosed. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of illustration only and so that this disclosure will be thorough, complete and will fully convey the full scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a handbag.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a handbag.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a handbag.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a handbag.

FIG. 5 is a front view of a non-limiting embodiment of a tablet case.

FIG. 6 is a back view of a non-limiting embodiment of a tablet case.

FIG. 7 is a front view of a non-limiting embodiment of a tablet case.

FIG. 8 is a back view of a non-limiting embodiment of a tablet case.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a tablet case.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a tablet case.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a tablet case.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a briefcase.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a briefcase.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a briefcase.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a briefcase.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a briefcase.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a laptop case.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a laptop case.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a laptop case.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a laptop case.

FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a cell phone case.

FIG. 22 is a back perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a cell phone case.

FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a cell phone case.

FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a card holder.

FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a cell phone case.

FIG. 26 is a back perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a cell phone case.

FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a cell phone case.

FIG. 28 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a card holder.

FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a zipper closed bag.

FIG. 30 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a card holder.

FIG. 31 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a purse/clutch.

FIG. 32 is a front view of a non-limiting embodiment of a hook and loop closed bag.

FIG. 33 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a charging station.

FIG. 34 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a device case

FIG. 35 is a front perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a device case.

FIG. 36 is a back perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a device case.


Reference Numbers in the Drawings

10	Handbag	12	Removable multifunctional piece
14	Zip fastener	16	Front of handbag
18	Back of handbag	20	Loop side of hook and loop fastener
21	Tablet case	22	Hook side of hook and loop fastener
24	Removable multifunctional piece	26	Front of tablet case
28	Zip fastener	30	Back of tablet case
32	Removable handle	34	Pocket
36	Hook side of hook and loop fastener	38	Loop side of hook and loop fastener
40	Snap fasteners	42	Briefcase
44	Front of briefcase	46	Removable multifunctional piece
48	Back of briefcase	50	Magnetic back
52	Latch fasteners for briefcase	54	Hinges
58	Laptop case	60	Front of laptop case
62	Back of laptop case	64	Removable multifunctional piece
66	Zip fastener	68	Shoulder strap
70	Hook side of hook and loop fastener	72	Loop side of hook and loop fastener
74	Pocket	76	Back inner panel
78	Front D-Ring tab	80	Back D-Ring tab
82	Front inner panel	84	Cell phone case
85	Flap closure	86	Strip closure
87	Card holder	88	Front of cell phone case
89	Hook side of hook and loop fastener	90	Loop side of hook and loop fastener
91	Clip	92	Cards
93	Hook and loop fastener	94	Snap
95	Closable pouch	96	Zip fastener
97	Hook and loop fastener	98	Purse/clutch
99	Solar charging station	100	Solar panels
101	Battery	102	Charge cord
103	Clip	104	Ring
105	Cell phone	106	Design

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to customizable case and bag systems. In one embodiment, the cases are for electronic devices. In this embodiment, the invention allows the user to customize the case in order to function as either a handle-held case or a carrying sleeve. At the same time, the user may customize the case or bag through the use of an interchangeable removable multifunctional piece. Non-limiting types of cases and bags include backpacks, handbags, purses, briefcases, travel bags, shoulder bags, totes, duffel bags, waist bags, messenger bags, camera cases, firearm cases, satchels, laptop cases, tablet cases, e-reader cases, cell phone cases, and the like. The removable multifunctional piece may serve the dual purpose of a fashion statement or element as well as a utilitarian or functional element. As a fashion statement, the removable multifunctional piece may have a customized print, a pattern, a texture, a design, a logo, a trademark, an advertisement, a lifestyle expression, a religious expression, a political expression, or a philosophical expression. Designs may be made using a number of different techniques such as stitch work, tooling, carving, embroidery, embossing, stamping, beadwork, or rhinestones. Logos and trademarks may be for schools, companies, military branch, religious groups, political groups, government agencies, organizational groups, charities, or sports teams. As a functional element, the removable multifunctional piece may be a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone case, a camera bag, an e-reader case, a tablet case, a wallet, a purse/clutch, a card holder, a gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, or a solar charging station. The core components of the invention include the case or bag made from various materials with a main compartment for storing items such as electronic devices and a fastener to secure the main compartment; optional outside pocket on either side or both sides; the matching or contrasting removable multifunctional piece, made from various materials attached to the front side of the case or bag; and the removable handles made from matching or contrasting material and attaching to the case using various attachment mechanisms. The general configuration is the case with the removable handles fastened for hand holding similar to the way a briefcase is held, or detached, making the case a sleeve and held in the arm like a book. The interchangeable removable multifunctional piece is fastened to the case or bag for a fashion, advertising, or other lifestyle expression or statement and also functions as a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone holder, an e-reader holder, a tablet holder, a wallet, a purse/clutch, a card holder, a gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, or a solar charging station. The invention allows for interchangeability of function (e.g. carrying case to sleeve) and design (e.g. changing the removable multifunctional piece size, shape, and portraiture) in a single product through customization by the user.
Turning to the figures, FIG. 1 through FIG. 4 illustrate a handbag embodiment; FIG. 5 though FIG. 11 illustrate a tablet case embodiment; FIG. 12 through FIG. 16 illustrate a briefcase embodiment; FIG. 17 through FIG. 20 illustrate a laptop case embodiment; FIG. 21 through FIG. 28 illustrate cell phone case embodiments; FIG. 29 through FIG. 34 illustrate various removable multifunctional piece embodiments; FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 illustrate another laptop case embodiment.
In the handbag 10 embodiment, shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, the removable multifunctional piece 12 is attached via hook and loop fastener to the front of the Handbag 16 with the hook side of the hook and loop fastener fixed on the Handbag 22 and the loop side of the hook and loop fastener fixed on the Removable Piece 20. The hook side of the hook and loop fastener 22 may be centered or off-centered on the handbag. The back of handbag 18 completes the handbag perspective 10. The handbag 10 main compartment is secured by a zip fastener 14. In one embodiment, not illustrated, the handbag has removable handles. Changing handles allows the user to alter the look of the handbag. In one embodiment, the handbag has “feet” to keep the bottom of the bag off the ground.
In the tablet case 21 embodiment shown in FIG. 5 to FIG. 11, the removable multifunctional piece 24 is attached via hook and loop fastener to the front of the tablet case 26 with the hook side of the hook and loop fastener fixed on the tablet case 36 and the loop side of the hook and loop fastener fixed on the removable multifunctional piece 38. The hook side of the hook and loop fastener 36 may be centered or off-centered on the tablet case 21. The removable handles 32 are centered on the front side of the tablet case 21 and in the identical place on the back of the tablet case 30. In one embodiment, the removable handles 32 use snap fasteners 40 to attach the removable handle to the front of the tablet case 26 and the back of the tablet case 30. The tablet case 21 main compartment is secured with a zip fastener 28 and has an optional pocket 34 on the back of the tablet case 30. In one embodiment, the tablet case has “feet” to keep the bottom of the bag off the ground.
In the briefcase 42 embodiment shown in FIG. 12 to FIG. 16, the briefcase has at least one surface made out of a magnetic material. In this embodiment, the removable multifunctional piece is anchored magnetically 46. The removable multifunctional piece 46 is attached to the front of the briefcase 44, either centered or off center. In FIG. 12, FIG. 13, FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, the removable multifunctional piece is shown as an optional circular shape. Magnets or magnetic material or component is fixed on the back side of the removable multifunctional piece 50. The front of the briefcase 44 is attached to the back 48 with hinges 54 on one end of the briefcase. Latch fasteners 52 secure the other end and may have optional lock combinations included with the latch fasteners 52. In one embodiment, the briefcase has “feet” to keep the bottom of the case off the ground.
In the laptop case 58 embodiment shown in FIG. 17 to FIG. 20, the removable multifunctional piece 64 is attached via hook and loop fastener to the front outer panel 60 of the laptop case with the hook side of the hook and loop fastener 70 fixed to the laptop case and the loop side of the hook and loop fastener 72 fixed to the removable multifunctional piece 64. The hook side of the hook and loop fastener 70 may be centered or off-center on the front outer panel 60 of the laptop case. In one embodiment, more than one removable multifunctional piece 64 may be attached to the front outer panel 60 of the laptop case. An optional detachable shoulder strap 68 attaches to the front inner panel 82 by means of a front D-ring tab 78 and to the back inner panel 76 by means of a back D-ring tab 80. The laptop case main compartment is secured with a zip fastener 66. In one embodiment, not illustrated, the laptop case has removable handles. In one embodiment, the laptop case has “feet” to keep the bottom of the bag off the ground.
FIG. 21 to FIG. 28 show two different cell phone case 84 embodiments. The first embodiment is 84A (FIG. 21 and FIG. 23), which has a flap 85 closure. The second embodiment is 84B (FIG. 25 and FIG. 27), which has a strip 86 closure. The flap 85 or strip 86 may be held closed using snaps, hook and loop fastener, magnets, buckles, ties, and the like. In the embodiments shown in FIG. 23, FIG. 25, and FIG. 27, the flap 85 and strip 86 are held closed using a snap 94. In one embodiment the snap is magnetized. FIG. 27 also shows a cell phone 105 partially inserted into the cell phone case 84B. In the embodiments shown in FIG. 21 to FIG. 28, the removable multifunctional piece 87 may be attached to either the flap closure 85, as shown in FIG. 21, or the front 88 of the cell phone case as shown in FIG. 25. In alternative embodiments, the removable multifunctional piece may be attached to the back of the cell phone case or two removable multifunctional pieces may be attached to one cell phone case. The removable multifunctional piece may be attached to the cell phone case using a variety of different fasteners as snaps, magnetic snaps, buttons, buckles, clips, ties, magnets, zippers, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro® fastener), touch fasteners, suction cups, buckles with magnetic snaps, swing locks, turn locks, cinch plate, tuck lock, hooks, clasp hook, spring snap hooks, spring snap, fireman hook, trigger snap, swivel snaps, squeeze clasp, and the like. In the embodiments shown in FIG. 23, FIG. 24, FIG. 27, and FIG. 28, the removable multifunctional piece is attached using a hook and loop fastener, with one side (e.g. hook side) of the fastener 89 attached to the cell phone case and the other side (e.g. loop side) of the fastener 90 attached to the removable multifunctional piece (outlined to indicate it is on the non-visible side). In the embodiments illustrated, the back of cell phone case 84A and 84B have a clip 91 attached thereto. The clip may be used to attach the cell phone case to a purse, bag, pocket, belt, or the like. In another embodiment, the clip may be replaced with a belt loop, hook, buckle, or the like. In other embodiments, clip may be replaced with a fastening device, thus turning the cell phone holder 84 into a removable multifunctional piece. In the embodiments shown in FIG. 23, FIG. 24, FIG. 27, and FIG. 28 the removable multifunctional piece is a card holder shown with cards 92 partially inserted therein. The cards may be a driver's license, credit card, gym membership, or the like. In embodiment shown in FIG. 28, the card holder is closed using hook and loop fastener 93 (outlined to indicate it is non-visible). In other embodiments, the card holder may be closed using a zip fastener, snaps, magnets, magnetic snaps, squeeze frame, or the like.
FIG. 29 to FIG. 33 show various non-limiting embodiments of the removable multifunctional piece. As noted above, the removable multifunctional piece may be a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone case, a camera bag, an e-reader case, a tablet case, a wallet, a purse/clutch, a card holder, a gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, or a solar charging station. FIG. 29 shows a closable pouch 95 with a zip fastener 96 type of closure. FIG. 32 shows a closable pouch 95 with a hook and loop fastener 97 (outlined to indicate it is non-visible from the exterior) type of closure. In one embodiment, the interior of pouch 95 has one compartment. In another embodiment, the interior of pouch 95 has multiple compartments. In yet another embodiment, the interior of pouch 95 has an organizer. In yet another embodiment, the interior of pouch 95 has various holders to organize writing instruments, cell phone, change, cards, and the like. FIG. 30 shows card holder 87 with cards 92 partially inserted therein. FIG. 31 shows a purse/clutch 98. FIG. 33 shows a solar charging station with solar panels 100, battery pack 101, and connector 102. Connector 102 may be any number of connectors that are capable of connecting to an electronic device. FIG. 34 shows a solar charging station 99 removeably attached to a tablet case 21. At least one side of the removable multifunctional piece may also include a customized print, a pattern, a texture, a design, a logo, a trademark, an advertisement, a lifestyle expression, a religious expression, a political expression, or a philosophical expression. Designs may be made using a number of different techniques such as beads, stitching/embroidery, rhinestones, embossing, tooling, carving, and the like. Logos and trademarks may be for logos or trademarks may be for schools, companies, military branch, religious groups, political groups, government agencies, organizational groups, charities, or sports teams. FIG. 30 and FIG. 32 also show designs 106A and 106B, respectively.
FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 show another embodiment of a lap top case 58. In this embodiment, the removable handles attach using a clip 103 and ring 104 system. The ring 104 may be various shapes such as circular, square, rectangular, triangular, D-shaped, polygonal, and the like. In this embodiment, two removable multifunctional pieces are attached to the case on opposite sides. On the first side of the case, shown in FIG. 35, the removable multifunctional piece is a zip fastener pouch 95. On the second side of the case, shown in FIG. 36, the removable multifunctional piece is a solar charging station 99. In one embodiment, the laptop case has “feet” to keep the bottom of the bag off the ground.
The removable multifunctional piece has both a visual and utilitarian functions. Non-limiting visual functions include a fashion accessory, an advertisement, a lifestyle expression, a philosophical statement, a religious statement, a political statement, words of encouragement, or a favorite photo. Non-limiting utilitarian functions include a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone case, a camera bag, an e-reader case, a tablet case, a wallet, a purse/clutch, a card holder, a gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, or a solar charging station. A select number of removable multifunctional pieces are shown in FIG. 29 to FIG. 32. FIG. 29 shows an example of a zippered pouch. FIG. 31 shows an example of a small purse/clutch. FIG. 30 shows an example of a card holder. FIG. 32 shows an example of a pouch with a hook and loop fastener. FIG. 33 shows an example of a solar charging station. The shape of the removable multifunctional piece may be any shape. The size of the removable multifunctional piece varies depending on the case or bag on which it will be attached. In some embodiments, more than one removable multifunctional piece may be attached to one case or bag. For example, a laptop case could have an organizer and a solar charging station attached thereto.
In the most complete embodiment the present invention is made up of the following components: material for the case or bag; removable multifunctional piece; and optionally removable handles. These components may be made of a variety of fabric, leather, canvas, metal, plastic, waterproof parachute, nylon, denim, corduroy, or flame retardant fabrics among other materials. The interchangeable removable multifunctional piece may be in different sizes, shapes and portraiture. A variety of different fasteners such as snaps, magnetic snaps, buttons, buckles, clips, ties, magnets, zippers, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro® fastener), touch fasteners, suction cups, buckles with magnetic snaps, swing locks, turn locks, cinch plate, tuck lock, hooks, clasp hook, spring snap hooks, spring snap, fireman hook, trigger snap, swivel snaps, squeeze clasp, and the like may be used to secure the removable pieces. In one embodiment, a zip fastener secures the main compartment. In another embodiment, a fold over flap or strip may be used to secure the main compartment. In these embodiments, the flap or strip may be secured using a variety of different fasteners such as hook and loop, interface, magnets, buckles, snap buckles, ties, clips, snaps, buttons, suction cups, and the like. These components are related as follows: material for the case; interchangeable removable multifunctional piece cut according to the required measurements for the specific electronic device, laptop, tablet, or cell phone including seam allowances for fixing the fastener to the material of the case or bag. Two identical pieces of the same or contrasting material are cut for a case; one for each removable handle. One piece of material matching or contrasting for the interchangeable removable multifunctional piece. The removable multifunctional piece is cut to the desired size and shape. The removable multifunctional piece is then customized in various manners such as: printing, embroidering, or other embellishment such as needlework, beadwork, conchos, nailheads, studs, tooling, carving, and rhinestones. The fastener is sized to the measurement of the removable multifunctional piece, with one half of the fastening mechanism attached to the case or bag and the other half attached to the removable multifunctional piece. In embodiments using hook and loop fasteners, the hook and loop fastener, is cut to the measurement of the removable multifunctional piece, with the hook side fixed to the case or bag either centered or off-center and the loop side fixed to the removable multifunctional piece with the edges turned. Both the hook and loop fastener pieces are fixed by stitching or other attachment method (e.g. gluing, cementing, bonding, etc.). The removable handles are centered on the front side of the case or bag and in the identical place on the back side. In one embodiment, the removable handles have snap fasteners attached to each end. In another embodiment, the removable handles have fireman hooks or clips attached to each end. The clips may be carabiner, snap clips, and the like. In another embodiment, the removable handles have buckles attached to each end. In other embodiments, the removable handles have a tack button.
Upon completion, the customized interchangeable removable multifunctional piece will have finished stitching around the edges with the loop side of the hook and loop fastener exposed. The case or bag will have the hook side of the hook and loop fastener exposed on the front side, centered or off center, so when the removable multifunctional piece is attached, it is centered or off center. The case or bag and interchangeable removable multifunctional pieces correspond in size by measurements for a laptop, tablet, cell phone or other electronic device. It should be noted the size correspondence of the case or bag to the removable multifunctional piece enables the removable multifunctional piece to be interchangeable with other customized removable multifunctional pieces. It should be further noted, a hook and loop fastener exception is fixing the hook and loop fastener with cement, adhesive or some other method to a material such as metal or plastic where stitching is not practical on the case, bag, or removable multifunctional piece.
Reference numbers 12, 24, 46, and 64 provide an illustration of a Removable Piece in variations—different size, shapes and portraiture. It should be noted, the attachment method for the interchangeable removable multifunctional piece to a case or bag may vary by using snaps, magnetic snaps, buttons, buckles, clips, ties, magnets, zippers, hook and loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro® fastener), touch fasteners, suction cups, buckles with magnetic snaps, swing locks, turn locks, cinch plate, tuck lock, hooks, clasp hook, spring snap hooks, spring snap, fireman hook, trigger snap, swivel snaps, squeeze clasp, or other attachment method capable of securing the interchangeable removable multifunctional piece to the case or bag. It should be noted further, the attachment method will differ for a case or bag made out of metal, reference number 46 in FIGS. 12, 13, 15 and 16, specifically. In these embodiments, the removable multifunctional piece may be attached to the case or bag using magnets, magnetic material, or other attachment method. If the case or bag is a non-magnetic material such as plastic, leather, fabric, non-magnetic metal, among others, and the Removable Piece is magnetic it will attach to a magnetic receptive piece fixed on the case or bag.
While the present invention has been described above in terms of specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Any type of case, bag, backpack or other article can be designed to receive a customized removable piece, removable multifunctional piece, or removable handle. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind of those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, and which are intended to be and are covered by both this disclosure and the appended claims. It is intended that the scope of the invention should be determined by proper interpretation and construction of the appended claims and their legal equivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon the disclosure in this specification and the attached drawings.
The present invention may be applied, constructed, and utilized in many different arenas, for example, as an accessory or carrying case for mobile devices, hand held firearms, musical instruments, book covers, or calculators. The size and shape of the removable multifunctional piece can vary to make it applicable to many different types of devices. Any type of bag, case, camera case, firearm case, or backpack can be designed to receive a customized removable piece; removable multifunctional piece; or removable handle. Given the creative expression ability through the customization feature of the removable multifunctional piece or removable handles there are unlimited design possibilities. Likewise, the use of various construction materials for the case or bag and removable pieces make the invention ideal for various environments and situations.
Many alterations and modifications may be made by those having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments disclosed and described herein. Therefore, it is understood that the illustrated and described embodiments have been set forth only for the purposes of examples and that they are not to be taken as limiting the embodiments as defined by the following claims. For example, notwithstanding the fact that the elements of a claim are set forth below in a certain combination, it must be expressly understood that the embodiments include other combinations of fewer, more or different elements, which are disclosed above even when not initially claimed in such combinations
Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that the various features, aspects and functionality described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the particular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can be applied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the other embodiments of the invention, whether or not such embodiments are described and whether or not such features are presented as being a part of a described embodiment. Thus the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments.
Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing: to the extent that the term “having,” “includes,” or “wherein” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner without limitation or the like; the term “example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or “an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or the like; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,” “standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construed as limiting the item described to a given time period or to an item available as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompass conventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may be available or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, where this document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass those apparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in the future.
A group of items linked with the conjunction “and” should not be read as requiring that each and every one of those items be present in the grouping, but rather should be read as “and/or” unless expressly stated otherwise. Similarly, a group of items linked with the conjunction “or” should not be read as requiring mutual exclusivity among that group, but rather should also be read as “and/or” unless expressly stated otherwise. Furthermore, although items, elements or components of the invention may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural is contemplated to be within the scope thereof unless limitation to the singular is explicitly stated.
The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “at least,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instances shall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or required in instances where such broadening phrases may be absent. The use of the term “module” does not imply that the components or functionality described or claimed as part of the module are all configured in a common package. Indeed, any or all of the various components of a module, whether control logic or other components, can be combined in a single package or separately maintained and can further be distributed across multiple locations.
Additionally, the various embodiments set forth herein are described in terms of exemplary block diagrams, flow charts and other illustrations. As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after reading this document, the illustrated embodiments and their various alternatives can be implemented without confinement to the illustrated examples. For example, block diagrams and their accompanying description should not be construed as mandating a particular architecture or configuration.

Claims

1. A customizable bag comprising:

a bag having at least one compartment having an interior surface and an exterior surface; and

at least one removable multifunctional piece;

wherein the removable multifunctional piece is attached to the exterior surface of the at least one compartment using an attachment system selected from the group consisting of: a snap, a hook and loop fastener, a magnet, a clip, a buckle, or a tie; and

wherein the removable multifunctional piece is selected from the group consisting of:

a mouse pad, a closeable pouch, an organizer, a cell phone holder, an e-reader holder, a tablet holder, a wallet, a purse, a clutch, a card holder, gun holder, refrigerator magnet, paperweight, and a solar charging station.

2. The customizable bag of claim 1, further comprising at least one removable handle.

3. The customizable bag of claim 2, wherein the at least one removable handle is attached using a second attachment system selected from the group consisting of: a snap, a hook and loop fastener, and a ring and clip.

4. The customizable bag of claim 3, wherein the at least one removable handle is attached using the snap.

5. The customizable bag of claim 3, wherein the at least one removable handle is attached using the ring and clip.

6. The customizable bag of any one of the previous claims, wherein the removable multifunctional piece further includes a fashion element.

7. The customizable bag of claim 6, wherein the fashion element is selected from the group consisting of: a customized print, a pattern, a texture, a design, a logo, a trademark, an advertisement, a lifestyle expression, a religious expression, a political expression, and a philosophical expression.

8. The customizable bag of claim 7, wherein the design is made using beads, rhinestones, stitching, embroidery, tooling, carving, nail heads, studs, conchos, or embossing.

9. The customizable bag of 7, wherein the logo is for a school, a company, a military branch, a religious group, a political group, a government agency, an organizational group, a charity, or a sports team.

10. The customizable bag of any one of the previous claims, wherein the removable multifunctional piece is attached using the hook and loop fastener.

11. The customizable bag of any one of the previous claims, further comprising at least two removable multifunctional pieces.

12. The customizable bag of claim 11, wherein one of the at least two removable multifunctional pieces is a solar charging station.

13. The customizable bag of any one of the previous claims, wherein the interior surface of the at least one compartment is designed to hold an electronic device selected from the group consisting of: a laptop, a tablet, an e-reader, and a cell phone.

14. The customizable bag of any one of the previous claims, wherein the bag is selected from the group consisting of: a backpack, a handbag, a purse, a briefcase, a travel bag, a shoulder bag, a tote, a duffel bag, a waist bag, a messenger bag, a camera case, a firearm case, a satchel, a laptop case, a tablet case, an e-reader case, and a cell phone case.