US20220142319A1

US20220142319A1 - Hanger and Luggage Packing System

Info

Publication number: US20220142319A1
Application number: US17/571,491
Authority: US
Inventors: Rosemarie Strippoli
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-08-16
Filing date: 2022-01-09
Publication date: 2022-05-12

Abstract

The luggage packing system is provided to assist travelers to ensure that they have the necessities for traveling with infants and young children. The packing system provides a series of preferably flat inserts containing pockets and pouches that makes items easier to locate and remove individually from the luggage without disturbing other pockets or pouches. The luggage packing system also includes a hanger insert system that is movable relative to the layer member and a self-contained layer member having sidewalls and a zippered front surface.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to an insert for a piece of hanger and luggage such as a suitcase and a packing system. In one form of the invention, a system is provided to assist parents to ensure that they have the necessities for many trips, especially trips with infants and young children. The packing system of the present invention provides a series of inserts and layers that make items easier to locate and remove one-at-a-time without disturbing the rest of the contents of the luggage. The inserts may have varied pouch configurations adapted to store a wide variety of medications, clothing, accessories, and items. One or more elements can be particularly arranged to provide a separable, packing and organization system for clothing and accessories to be packed in a suitcase. The luggage may be arranged flat in layers wherein infant items such as diapers, wipes, medications and toys are located in one layer. Another layer may include snack items such as bottles, snacks, pacifiers, and formula. Yet another layer may include items for entertaining a small childsuch as games, toys, music, or similar devices. Yet another layer may include adult clothes, chargers and adult essentials. By using the layers to pack small items of clothing and personal care items, entertainment and food, the luggage may provide a versatile suitcase for travelers, especially travelers with infants or young child.
Suitcases and purses provide pockets or sleeves for holding items. Otherwise, they provide one or more large compartments in which all other things are to be folded and stored. Similarly, diaper bags have a few pockets to allow certain items to be placed therein while the majority of items remain loose in a large center area. In many of these suitcases, purses or diaperbags, it is difficult to see what has been packed and oftentimes, an essential item such as a medication is left at home.
When a traveler arrives in their hotel room or when children arrive at a relatives' home, they have the option of leaving the packed elements in their luggage, placing them intact in drawers in furniture or unpacked, carried and stored, all mixed together. It is difficult to find individual items within the jumble of other items in the suitcase. Sometimes the entire compartment must be emptied to locate a single item. Unpacking a typical suitcase is a chore especially during airport inspections or during a trip where you are constantly changing location every few days. It is difficult to maintain clothing in a neat, pressed condition in the open, loose environment of a suitcase compartment. With the present invention, the entire layer may be hung in a closet or on a hook. The contents of the layer are visible and may be accessed by unzipping the front layer of the layer member while the layer member remains on the hook. A further feature allows the front layer to be rolled up or otherwise retained along the top of the layer member such that the user has ready access to the contents of the layer member while the layer member is retained on the hanger or integral hanger mechanism as described below. A further feature is to have an opening in the front member such that the front member may be folded over the back of the layer member with the hanger extending through the opening in the front member such that layer member may be hung from a support and the front member is out of the way to allow for access to the contents of the layer member.
The problem with disorganized packing has been recognized and certain devices have been developed to alleviate this burden, especially with purses. The Herwood reference (U.S. Pat. No. 4,580,667) discloses an insert for luggage or purses consisting of a packing element in the form of a page which is constructed as a thin-wall member having upwardly facing pockets and sleeves. Each page contains a plurality of attachment means along the bottom edge thereof for releasably hinging the bottom edges of the pages into a loose-leaf assembly of pages such that any page can be accessed by flipping the pages similar to the pages of a book. The pages may also be provided with fastening means on the top edges which can be joined to the hinges to form a vertical assembly. The top page in a vertical assembly or any of the pages can be provided with a hanger and stiffener, if required, for hanging the assembly in a closet or a garment bag. Conwiser (U.S. Pat. No. 2,529,724) discloses a pleated, multiple compartment kit for carrying purse contents so that they can be readily moved from purse to purse. The purse kit shown by McNary (U.S. Pat. No. 2,183,428) has straps stitched at various locations to provide sleeves for holding cosmetics and grooming aids such as combs, brushes, etc. Some overnight bags also provide separation and specific compartments for packing clothing.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The packing system of the present invention is based on a packing element in the form of multiple packing layers each of which is intended to lay flat and are constructed as a thin-wall member having upwardly facing pockets, pouches and/or sleeves. The layers are retained in a shell-type outer layer that serves as the outside of the luggage. The outer layer may enclose one or more packing layers.
In one form of the present invention, the outer layer may also include a zippable clear layer that allows the outer layer to be hung on a hanger while allowing each pocket or sleeve to be visible through the clear layer. The clear layer includes an opening therein which allows the clear layer to be pulled back and engaged with the hanger such that the clear layer is retained in a position that exposes the contents of the layer member without interfering with access to the contents of the layer member. Each packing layer contains a plurality of pockets or sleeves of varying sizes depending on the intended use of each packing layer. The pockets or sleeves may also be provided with zippers or loop and hook members along the top edges or areas of each individual pocket. In one form of the packing system, a packing first layer includes multiple smaller pockets or sleeves for storing small personal items for an infant or small child such as medications, bibs, wipes, diapers, ointments, combs. A second packing layer may include pockets or sleeves for containing snacks, bottles, formula, spoons, or pacifiers. Another packing layer may include entertainment items for a child or infant such as plush toys, books, a foldable toilet seat, or games. A further packing layer may include pockets or sleeves for items such as clothes, adult toiletries, jewelry, shoes, chargers, or other essential travel items.
In one form of the present invention, the packing layers include a plurality of snaps or other fasteners thereon. Each pocket or pouch includes complementary snaps or fasteners therein. This allows the user to remove individual pockets or pouches to remove items therefrom or to restock the items contained therein or even to refrigerate medications or similar items without having to remove the items from the pouch or pocket. Additionally, the use of multiple snaps or fasteners allows the user to adjust the pockets or pouches located on each individual layer or to adjust the orientation of the pockets or pouches. Similarly, if a hook and loop fastener system is used, the pockets or pouches may be readily rearranged by the user as desired.
The pockets or pouches of the present invention preferably include a rear attachment system for attachment to the packing layer or outer layer. The front of the pockets or pouches include a zipper or overlapping layer to provide a convenient closure for the pouch or pocket. Each pocket or pouch also includes at least a strip of opaque or transparent material to allow the contents of the pouch or pocket to be observed without having to open the pouch or pocket or remove the pouch or pocket from the packing layer. Finally, the pouches or pockets may be made of a canvas or waterproof material to ensure that crumbs or liquids from the contents of the pouches or pockets do not spill into the luggage. A security pocket may also be provided that includes a zippered pocket that is not visible through the front surface to store keys or other valuables.
In another form of the present invention, a single layer or multiple layers may include a sidewall and a front, preferably clear face. In this embodiment, the pouches or pockets are releasable connected to the back surface of the packing layer. The sidewalls protect the sides of the pockets or pouches and include a zipper along the periphery thereof. The front surface of the layer is preferably clear or opaque to allow the user to readily observe the contents of the respective layer. The zipper allows the user to open the selected layer to obtain access to the desired pocket or pouch.
In another form of the present invention, an integral hanger mechanism is also provided. As described below, the hanger system includes a preferably sewn in elongate bar member located adjacent to the along the top and back surface of the layer thereof. The bar is rotatable with respect to the top surface of the layer such that the hanger element is movable between extended and retracted positions. In the extended position, the hanger element extends above the top surface of the layer to allow the user to easily hang the entire contents of the layer in a closet or on any hook such as a car hook such that it is readily viewable and accessible. In the further preferred form, the hanger element is generally aligned with the back surface of the layer such that it hangs somewhat flat from the support surface for the hanger. The hanger element is movable to a retracted position wherein the hanger element is aligned with the back surface of the layer such that that layer may be easily placed into a conventional piece of luggage. As shown and described below, the bar member is rotatable with respect to the top surface of the layer so that the hanger element is movable into the desired position. The hanger mechanism is preferably sewn into and connected to the back surface of the layer member and is positioned such that it does not interfere with access to the contents of the layer or the front surface of the layer member when the front surface is opened.
These and many other features and attendant advantages of the invention will become apparent as the invention becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in con-junction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view in elevation of a first layer of the packing system in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2 is a front view in elevation of a second layer of the packing system in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 3 is a front view in elevation of a third layer of the packing system in accordance with the invention;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are a front view in elevation of the pocket embodiments of the packing system in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 5 is an elevation view of the back surface of the pocket in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 6 is an elevation view of the back sheet in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 7 is a front view in elevation of a first layer of an alternate form of the packing or luggage system in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 8 is a front view in elevation of a second layer of a packing system in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 9 is a front view in elevation of a third layer of a packing system in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 10 is a front view in elevation of a fourth layer of a packing system in accordance with the invention;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are a front view in elevation of the pocket embodiments of the packing system of FIG. 7 in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 12 is a back view in elevation of an alternate embodiment pocket of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a front view of the alternate embodiment of the back sheet of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of the layers of the invention disclosed in FIG. 7 arranged for packing in a suitcase;

FIG. 15 is an alternate embodiment of a perspective view of a layer of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a layer of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the pocket of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a front view of an alternate embodiment showing an improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention;

FIGS. 19A and 19B are right and left side views of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a back view of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a top view of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a front view of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention with the hanger assembly in a folded position;

FIG. 23 is a right side view of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention with the hanger assembly in a folded position;

FIG. 24 is a back view of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention with the hanger assembly in a folded position;

FIG. 25 is a top view of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention with the hanger assembly in a folded position;

FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of the improved luggage system and hanger system of the present invention;

FIG. 28 is a back perspective view of the improved luggage system hanger system of the present invention; and

FIG. 29 is a side perspective view of the improved luggage hanger system of the present invention showing the front member folded over the layer member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A versatile packing system is provided in accordance with this invention. The system is based on plurality of thin-wall packing layers that are designed to preferably lie flat and may be separate layers or releasably hinged along their lower edges into an overall packing assembly. Thus, the layers can be separately packed or interconnected to be removed from a piece of luggage as a single unit. The packing layers may be lifted and removed to allow for the visualization of the items in each layer. The use of the packing layers having the separate pouches or pockets allow the user to remove a single item without disturbing anything else packed in the luggage or in any other layer. If you remove a pouch when you put the layer in your suitcase or in a closet, you will readily see that the pouch is missing and therefore, it is unlikely that you will forget to pack something or leave it behind. A single packing layer can be utilized for an overnight trip, or a plurality of packing layers may be used for multiple evening trips. Additionally, the use of multiple packing layers facilitates the need of the user to quickly view the items that have bee, packed and/or need to be replenished. In a preferred form of the present invention each sleeve, pouch or pocket preferably includes a zipper or hook and loop system to close the pocket. Each pocket is also preferably at least partially transparent or translucent to allow the user to view the contents without opening the zipper member. As shown, the pocket may include a portion of the front surface 22 that is formed as a clear surface 19 and a further portion that is formed of an opaque or fabric surface 21 that obstructs the view of the contents of the pocket 18. As described below, at least one of the pockets may be formed of an insulated material to maintain the contents at a reduced temperature. As part of this pocket, a sleeve may be used for a frozen pack to assist in maintaining the reduced temperature of the contents of the pocket. Other pockets may be waterproof to ensure that the contents of the pockets do not spill into the luggage. Other pockets may be formed of a mesh material to allow for the visualization of the contents while also allowing for air to contact the contents of the pocket.
Referring now to the drawings, the packing insert assembly 10 of the present invention may include multiple packing layers 20, 30, 40 and 50. As described herein, more or fewer packing layers may be used depending on the length of the stay or the number of items needed for travel with a small child or infant. In the most basic form, the packing layers 20, 30, 40 or 50 are formed of a thin, flexible backing material such as a plastic, mesh or similar durable material. The packing layers are formed of a back sheet 12 that is sized to fit flat into most pieces of luggage. The back sheet 12 includes a plurality of shapes and sizes of pockets 18 releasably attached thereto. The pockets 18 may be arranged and fixed to the back sheet 12 or may be removable and arrangeable to optimize the storage for the respective layer. In one form of the present invention described in more detail below, the pockets 18 may be fixed to the back sheet with snaps or other fasteners to allow the user to remove the desired pockets.
Additionally, in another form of the present invention, an array of snaps 16 or other fasteners may be located on the front surface of the backsheet 12 as shown generally in FIG. 6. This array allows the user to position the pockets in the desired alignment and use pockets of the desired size and shape to maximize the packing space. In a preferred form of this embodiment, the snaps are arranged in a pattern to allow the user to position pockets 18 in a variety of positions along the back sheet and to also rearrange the orientation and types of pockets used depending on the needs of the user. Exemplary dimensions for the back sheet 12 include about 15 and ¼ inches by about 21 inches or 17 and ¼ inches by about 24 inches. As described herein, an important feature of the back sheet is that it fits within many cavities of commonly available suitcases including the airline approved carryon suitcases.
FIGS. 1-6 are illustrative of one of the preferred configurations of the present invention. As shown, the pockets 18 may be of a variety of shapes including rectangular, square, or oblong. In this embodiment, the pockets may be as small as approximately 7 inches by about 2 inches, approximately 4 inches by about 8 inches or as large as approximately 11 inches by about 17 inches. Exemplary sizes include approximately 7 inches by about 5 inches for smaller items. Another size may be about 7 inches by 2 inches for items such as combs or brushes. Another size may be about 4 inches by 8 inches for items such as medicine or ointment. Another size may be about 8 inches by about 9 inches to accommodate items such as shampoos or body wash. Yet another size may be about 9 inches by about 9 inches to accommodate items such as wipes. A further pocket size may be about 9 inches by about 4 inches to accommodate other personal items. As shown, the pockets 18 may be varied in height and width such that the face of the backsheet 12 may be two or three pockets wide and which may be aligned in about three rows in the height or lengthwise dimension. The depth of this first layer 20 may be varied by using pockets 18 of varying depth depending on the items intended to be packed by the user. Additionally, the pockets 18 to be used for medications or allergy pens may be insulated and may optionally include a sleeve for a frozen member to protect the contents from extreme temperature changes encountered during travel.
As shown in FIG. 1, this embodiment includes the first layer 20 that is arranged to accommodate a variety of smaller items that are typically packed for travel on short trips or with an infant or young child. This layer 20 is generally configured to include items for grooming, cleaning, or medicating the child or infant. In the preferred form of the present invention, the first layer 20 may be about 3 inches deep. As shown in FIG. 1, the top row of the pockets 18, may include a pair of pockets having a greater width than height to accommodate items such as combs, brushes and/or grooming items. Exemplary sizes of the pockets of this row are about 6 or 9 inches wide and about 4 or 5 inches high. The second row of this embodiment includes a pair of larger pockets for items such as socks or underwear. These pockets 18 preferably include a width dimension that is smaller than the height dimension of the pockets in this embodiment. An exemplary size for these pockets is approximately 8 inches by about 9 inches. A third row is illustrated having three pockets of differing sizes wherein a pair of side pockets have smaller width than height that are configured on the side of a larger center pocket. Exemplary sizes of this row include pockets having a width of about 4 inches by approximately about 8 inches while the center pocket is approximately about 9 inches by about 9 inches. As shown, the pocket may include a portion of the front surface 22 that is formed as a clear surface 19 and a further portion that is formed of an opaque or fabric surface 21 that obstructs the view of the contents of the pocket 18. Depending on the intended use of the pocket 18, the clear surface may be positioned above or below the opaque or fabric surface 21.
FIG. 2 is illustrative of a further preferred arrangement and form of the second layer 30 of the present invention. This layer is illustrated for use with a variety of smaller items. As shown, the pockets 18 of the second layer 30 may be of a variety of shapes including rectangular, square, or oblong. In this embodiment, the pockets 18 may include widths of about 7 or 9 inches and heights of about 2 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 7 inches or 9 inches. In general, this layer may be about 17 inches wide and a height of about 24 inches. This second layer 30 may include the pockets 18 arranged about two pockets wide and a height consisting of three or four pockets. Exemplary sizes include 7 inches by 2 inches for smaller items. Another size may be about 9 inches by 4 inches or 7 inches by about 5 inches. Another size may be about 9 inches by 9 inches or 7 inches by about 7 inches. In the preferred form of the present invention, the second layer 30 may be about 3 inches deep. The depth of this layer 30 may be varied by using pockets of varying depth depending on the items intended to be packed by the user.
FIG. 3 is illustrative of a preferred arrangement and form of the third layer 40 of the present invention. This layer is illustrated with a variety of items that are typically used for packing clothing and personal items such as glasses. As shown, the pockets 18 of the third layer 40 may be of a variety of shapes including rectangular, square, or oblong. In this embodiment, the pockets 18 may include exemplary sizes such as about 15 inches by about 10 or 11 inches. These pockets 18 may be configured to consist of two large pockets having a plurality of interior pockets to include single larger pockets for storage of larger items. Additionally, these pockets may include one or more additional interior pockets 44 or pouches 46 to accommodate keys, glasses, pens, or pencils. As shown, these interior pockets may be hidden from view by opaque materials 66 to hide the contents from view without opening the pocket. In the preferred form of the present invention, the third layer 40 may be about 3 inches deep or may be deeper if it is intended to be used as the primary storage area of clothes for the user. The depth of this layer 40 may be varied by using pockets 18 of varying depth depending on the items intended to be packed by the user in this layer.
FIGS. 4A and 4B are illustrative of a preferred form of the pocket 18 of the present invention. FIG. 4A is illustrative of an open pocket having a window 68 and a peripheral zipper 64. In this embodiment, the pocket 18 is configured for horizontal alignment on the back sheet 12. As shown, the zipper 64 extends nearly the entire circumference along the peripheral edge of the pocket 18 to allow the pocket 18 to be opened without removing the pocket from the back sheet 12 as described more fully below. The pocket 18 includes a spine surface 15 oriented along a longer surface of the pocket 18 and which provides a flexible surface along which the pocket can be opened or closed. The window 68 is formed preferably of a clear or opaque plastic material to allow the user to observe the contents of the pocket 18 without having to open the pocket or remove it from the back sheet. FIG. 4B is illustrative of an alternate form of the pocket wherein the pocket 18 is designed to be aligned vertically along the back sheet 12. In this embodiment, the spine surface 15 is aligned along a shorter side of the alternate form of the pocket 18. As shown, the zipper 64 extends along much of the periphery of the pocket 18 and may at least partially be protected by an overlapping layer 66. Similarly, the window 68 of this embodiment extends along a portion of the front surface of the pocket 18. In a preferred form of this embodiment, the window 68 extends along approximately one-half to about two thirds of the front surface of the pocket. The window allows the user to observe the contents of the pocket without opening the pocket or removing the pocket from the back sheet. As shown, the pockets 18 of this embodiment may be about two and one-half to about 3 inches deep.
FIGS. 5 and 6 are illustrative of an embodiment having a plurality of snap members 16 to attach the pocket 18 to the back sheet 12. As shown, the snap members 16 may be arranged in a variety of configurations on the back sheet. The complementary snap members 16 of the back surface 24 of the pockets are generally located along the corners of the back surface 24 of the pocket. As shown in FIG. 6, a preferred form of this invention includes the snap members 16 arranged in a generally universal template on the back sheet 12 such that each of the different pockets may be securely arranged on the back sheet by the user to include and accommodate the desired pocket sizes for the user for each trip.
FIGS. 7-13 are illustrative of another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the first layer 20 is arranged to accommodate a variety of smaller items that are typically packed for travel with and infant or young child. This layer 20 is generally configured to include items for cleaning or medicating the child or infant. As shown in FIG. 7, the pockets 18 may be of a variety of shapes including rectangular, square or oblong. In this embodiment, the pockets may be as small as approximately 2 inches or as large as about 10 inches. Exemplary sizes may include 2.5 inches by 7.25 inches for items such as an allergy pen. Another size may be about 3 inches by 7.25 inches for items such as combs. Another size may be about 4.125 inches by 8.75 inches for items such as medicine or ointment. Another size may be about 9 inches by about 8.75 inches to accommodate items such as shampoos or body wash. Another size may be about 8.5 inches by about 9.75 to accommodate items such as wipes. A further pouch size may be about 8.75 inches by about 9.75 inches to accommodate items such as diapers. In the preferred form of the present invention, the first layer 20 may be about 3 inches deep. The depth of this layer 20 may be varied by using pockets 18 of varying depth depending on the items intended to be packed by the user. Additionally, the pockets 18 to be used for medications or allergy pens may be insulated pockets and may optionally include a sleeve for a frozen member to protect the contents from extreme temperature changes encountered during travel. As shown on FIG. 7, the pockets 18 may be configured generally in about 3 rows along the vertical dimension of the back sheet 12. As shown, the top row along the horizontal dimension, consists of a pair of smaller pockets aligned horizontally and generally adjacent to each other with a further, larger pocket horizontally positioned adjacent to the smaller pockets. The second row includes a pair of pockets having a general width of about 8 or 9 inches with a height of about 8 or 9 inches. The third row preferably includes a pair of smaller pockets having a greater vertical dimension than the horizontal dimension. These smaller pockets are aligned along the outer surface of the back sheet and are adjacent to a larger pocket that is centered along the third row. The smaller pockets of this row are generally about 4 inches wide and approximately 7 or 8 inches high. The center pocket is generally 7 or 8 inches by about 7 or 8 inches.
FIG. 8 is illustrative of a preferred arrangement and form of the second layer 30 of the present embodiment. This layer is illustrated with a variety of items that are typically used for feeding the child or infant. As shown, the pockets 18 of the second layer 30 may be of a variety of shapes including rectangular, square, or oblong. In this embodiment, the pockets 18 may be as small as approximately 2 inches or as large as about 10 inches. Exemplary sizes include 2 inches by 7 or 8 inches for items such as spoons. Another size may be about 9 or 10 inches by 4 or 5 inches for items such as snacks. Another size may be about 7 or 8 inches by 5 or 6 inches for items such as snack containers. Another size may be about 9 or 10 inches by about 9 or 10 inches to accommodate items such as bottles. Another size may be about 7 or 8 inches by about 7 inches to accommodate items such as pacifiers or teething rings. Another size may be about 7 or 8 inches by about 9 or 10 inches to accommodate items such as cereal snacks. A further pouch size may be about 9 or 10 inches by about 9 or 10 inches to accommodate items such as formula. In the preferred form of the present invention, the second layer 30 may be about 3 inches deep. The depth of this layer 30 may be varied by using pockets of varying depth depending on the items intended to be packed by the user.
FIG. 9 is illustrative of a preferred arrangement and form of the third layer 40 of the alternate embodiment. This layer is illustrated with a variety of items that are typically used for entertaining the child or infant. As shown, the pockets 18 of the third layer 40 may be of a variety of shapes including rectangular, square, or oblong. In this embodiment, the pockets 18 may include exemplary sizes such as about 17 inches by about 12 inches or 17 inches by about 10 inches. These pockets 18 may be configured to accommodate plush toys, books, DVDs, or games or even larger or bulkier clothing or blankets. Additionally, these pockets 18 may include an additional pocket 44 to accommodate pens or pencils or even a sound machine. In the preferred form of the present invention, the third layer 40 may be about 3 inches deep. The depth of this layer 40 may be varied by using pockets 18 of varying depth depending on the items intended to be packed by the user in this layer.
FIG. 10 is illustrative of a preferred arrangement and form of the fourth layer 50 of the present embodiment. This layer is illustrated with a variety of items that are typically used for clothing the child or infant. As shown, the pockets 18 of the fourth layer 50 may be of a variety of shapes including rectangular, square, or oblong. In this embodiment, the pockets 18 may include exemplary sizes such as about 17 inches by about 11 or 12 inches. These pockets 18 may be configured to accommodate the clothes of the small child or infant. In the preferred form of the present invention, the fourth layer 50 may be about 3 inches deep. The depth of this layer 50 may be varied by using pockets 18 of varying depth depending on the items intended to be packed by the user in this layer. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4, a small hidden pocket 54 may be provided that is intended to store small valuable items such as a key. Unlike the other pockets 18, this pocket or pouch 54 is preferably hidden when looking at the front surface of the fourth layer 50.
FIGS. 11A and 11B are illustrative of an alternate form of the pocket 18 of the present invention. FIG. 11A is illustrative of an open pouch having a window 68 and a horizontally oriented zipper 64. In this embodiment, the pocket 18 is configured for horizontal alignment on the back sheet 12. As shown, the zipper 64 is oriented horizontally along the greater width dimension of the pocket 18 to allow the pocket 18 to be opened without removing the pocket from the back sheet 12 as described more fully below. The pocket 18 includes a flap member 17 oriented along the outer surface of the zipper to provide a protective surface along the outer surface of the zipper. The window 68 is formed preferably of a clear or opaque plastic material to allow the user to observe the contents of the pocket 18 without having to open the pocket or remove it from the back sheet 12. In this embodiment, the window extends along the greater width dimension of the pocket 18 and below the zipper 64.
FIG. 11B is illustrative of an alternate form of the pocket of the present invention wherein the pocket 18 is designed to be aligned vertically along the back sheet 12. In this embodiment, the zipper 64 is aligned along the short surface of the alternate form of the pocket 18. Similarly, the window 68 of this embodiment extends along a portion of the front surface of the pocket 18 below the zipper 64. In a preferred form of this embodiment, the window 68 extends along approximately one-half to about two thirds of the front surface 22 of the pocket. As with the prior embodiment, the window allows the user to observe the contents of the pocket without opening the pocket or removing the pocket from the back sheet 12. As shown, the pockets 18 of this embodiment may have a depth of about two inches or greater.
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and 12 and 13, The pockets 18 of the present embodiment preferably include a rear attachment system for attachment of the back surface 24 of the pockets 18 to the back sheet 12. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the attachment system of this embodiment may include fasteners such as snaps 16. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the attachment system may include a plurality of fasteners such as a book and loop fastener system 26 as shown in this embodiment and described herein.
In a preferred form of the present invention shown in FIG. 13, the layers of the back sheet include a plurality of aligned hook and loop fasteners 26. Each pocket 18 includes complementary strips of hook and loop fasteners 26 thereon. This allows the user to remove individual pockets to remove items therefrom or to restock the items contained therein or even to refrigerate medications or similar items without having to remove the items from the pocket. Additionally, the use of multiple hook and loop fasteners 26 to allow the user to adjust the pockets located on each individual layer. For example, when a hook and loops system is used, one side of the hook and loop system may be arranged in horizontal and/or vertical lines along the layers. The pockets may have complementary hook and loop materials on the back surface thereon. This will allow the user to rearrange or remove the selected pockets to accommodate the needs for the current travel plans.
In this embodiment, the back sheets can also be attached to hangers by threading the hook portions of the hangers through a grommet 62 or similar type of opening in the top of one or more layers. Similarly, a clip member such as a carabiner may be used to allow the layer to be hung from an available rod or knob. Other suggested attachment and hinging devices may be used with a slip-lock tightener such as used on various straps. The hanging structure can also be a simple central loop slipped over the shaft of a hanger or hung on a hook. Another embodiment of providing a method for carrying the layers, include snap closure rings, plastic or fabric belt strips having snap closures, hook and loop ends, buckle ends, turn-buckle ends or D-rings.
FIG. 14 is illustrative of an exploded view showing the present invention arranged with multiple layers for packing in a conventional suitcase. As shown, the layers 20, 30, 40 and 50 may be aligned for positioning in conventional luggage with each layer having a variety of pockets 18 or pouches 46 depending on the intended use of each layer.
FIGS. 15-17 are illustrative of another embodiment of the present invention showing a modified layer 70 for use during quick trips such as short vacations or overnight stays. The modified layer 70 may also be used for an extended stay by utilizing multiple modified layers that may be separately carried or are sized to be placed in conventionally sized luggage carriers. As illustrated, this modified layer 70 includes a peripheral shell 72 that encloses and generally encapsulates the pockets 18 and pouches. The pockets 18 include clear surfaces and generally opaque surfaces. FIG. 16 illustrates the clear layer 78 of the shell 72 being folded back to allow access to the pockets 18. In this embodiment, the shell 72 further includes a sidewall 74 having top, bottom and side surfaces and a circumferential zipper 76 that extends along the circumference of the sidewall 74 and shell 70. The zipper 74 is used to close the clear layer 78 that protects and encloses the selected pockets 18 and/or pouches of the modified layer 70. In this embodiment, when the shell 72 is unfolded and opened or hung on a hanger, the clear layer 78 ensures that the pockets 18 remain in place and are protected while allowing the user to observe the contents of the modified layer 70. The sidewall 74 of this embodiment is made of a flexible material that allows the modified layer 70 to lay flat or be folded in half for storage in smaller luggage. The sidewall height is approximately the same height as the pockets selected for the modified layer 70. The zipper 76 extends along the entire circumference or along three fourths of the circumference of the modified layer 70 to allow the clear layer to be opened and either removed or folded out of the way to allow for ready access to the pockets 18. As with the prior embodiments, the back sheet portion of the modified layer 70 includes fasteners that match the fasteners on the back of the pockets or pouches whether they are snaps, hook and loop materials or other complementary methods of releasably connecting the pockets or pouches to the back sheet.
As also shown in FIGS. 15-17, a modified pocket 80 is provided. In one form of the modified pocket 80, the pocket includes an enlarged back storage area 82 with a smaller front storage area 84. The back storage area 82 is suitable for items such as clothes or blankets or other bulkier items and is preferably constructed of a breathable material such as khaki or nylon. The front storage area 84 is smaller and is suitable for toiletries, keys or other small items. The front storage area 84 is also shown as having a clear front surface to allow the user to visually observe the contents of the pocket 18 without having to open the pocket or clear layer 78. The large back storage area 82 preferably includes a circumferential zipper or a zipper that opens one half or three fourths of the pocket 18. The smaller front storage area 84 preferably includes a circumferential zipper that forms a generally u shape to allow the entire contents of the pocket to be easily removed. The back surface of the large back area preferably includes fasteners that match the fasteners on the back of the pockets whether they are snaps, hook and loop materials or other complementary methods of releasably connecting the pockets to the back sheet.
As shown in FIG. 17, the modified pocket 80 performs multiple functions of the other pockets or pouches described above. In this embodiment, the clear layer is utilized along the entire front surface of the front storage area 84 and along approximately one half of the back storage area 84. Additionally, a khaki or nylon material extends along the sidewall 74 of the modified pocket 80. The modified pocket also includes a pair of zippers 76. The first zipper extends along the front storage area 84 to allow for access to the contents thereof. The second zipper extends along the periphery of the back storage area 82 to allow for access to the contents of the back storage area 82. As described above, the depth of the modified pocket 80 may be similar to the depth of the pocket 18 described above or may be greater to accommodate more or different items than are storable with the pocket 18 described above.
FIGS. 18-29 are illustrative of an improved hanger insert mechanism and packing insert or layer member 140 for the luggage system of the present invention. As shown, the improved hanger system 120 of the present invention includes a hanger element 122, a rotatable element 124, a sleeve 126 and a connector 126. The hanger element 122 is a metal or similarly sturdy component which is curved or oriented to allow for the attachment of the hanger element 122 to the desired support structure. The hanger element 122 is attached to the rotatable element 124. The rotatable element 124 is a preferably sewn into the hanger system 120 and consists of a rigid member which may take many forms or shapes such as a plastic or wooden dowel or metal bar and preferably has a lengthwise dimension that extends along more than half of the width dimension of the top surface 152 of the layer member 140 and even more preferably three-fourths or more of the width dimension of the top surface 152 of the layer member 140. The rotatable element 124 is attached to the hanger system 120 of the luggage member or layer member 140 using a sleeve 126 or similar arrangement wherein the sleeve 126 surrounds portions of the rotatable element 124 while allowing the hanger element 122 to rotate or move relative to the sleeve 126. Assembly of the hanger system 120 includes connecting the hanger system to the layer member by a connector 128 that is preferably a flexible material or similar member attached to the back surface 156 of the layer member 140. The connector 128 and sleeve 126 are connected and then the connector 128 is attached to the back surface 156 of the layer member 140. The rotatable element 124 may then be inserted into the sleeve 126.
The hanger element 122 may then be screwed or otherwise attached to the rotatable element 124. Attachment of the hanger element 122 to the rotatable element 124 prevents the rotatable element 124 from being removed from the sleeve 126 which is shown as a pair of flexible canvas or similar pieces of fabric that are positioned on either side of the hanger element 122.
As shown in FIGS. 18-29, the hanger element 122 is rotatably movable relative to the top surface 152 of the sidewalls 142 of the layer member 140 between extended and folded positions. The hanger element 122 is movable from an exposed or extended position as shown in FIGS. 18-21 for attachment to an external support structure to a retracted or folded position as shown in FIGS. 22-25 wherein the hanger element 122 is adjacent to the back surface of the layer member 140 such that the layer member 140 readily fits in the standard sized luggage member without interference from the hanger system 120. Additionally, as shown, the hanger element 122 and sleeve 126 are aligned along or adjacent to the back surface 156 of the layer member 140 and are connected thereto by the connector 128 of the hanger system 120. As shown in FIGS. 19A, 19B and 24, the connector 128 may be a piece of flexible material such as a fabric or canvas which is sewn onto or otherwise affixed to the back surface 156 of the layer member 140 and extends upwardly to the top surface 152 of the sidewall 142 of the layer member 140 to provide for a flexible or movable connection between the sleeve 126 and the layer member 140. This alignment allows the weight of the layer member 140 to be transferred along the back surface 156 of the layer member 140 to allow the layer member 140 when it is hung, to align along a surface of a wall or to extend straight down from the hanger element 122 to minimize the interference of the hanger system 120 with the front surface 146 of the layer member 140. In the folded or retracted position, the hanger element 122, rotatable element 124 and sleeve 126 are aligned adjacent to the back surface 156 of the layer member 140. In the folded or retracted position, the sleeve 126 and connector 128 are aligned adjacent to each other such that the hanger system 120 is oriented along the back surface 156 of the layer member 140. As shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, one form of the present invention includes the hanger element 122 oriented downwardly and generally adjacent to the connector 128 and back surface 156 of the layer member 140. In this embodiment, the sleeve remains positioned slightly above the top surface 154 of the sidewall 142. Alternately, the sleeve 126 and connector 128 may be folded relative to each other such that the hanger system 120 preferably does not extend beyond the top surface 152 of the sidewall 142. In either arrangement, the hanger system 120 allows the layer member 140 to be used as an independent luggage member or is readily placeable in a conventional piece of luggage. Additionally, the layer member 140 may be prepacked for future travel and is ready for travel while allowing the user to readily observe the contents of the layer member 140 prior to packing.
FIGS. 26-29 are illustrative of an improved layer member 140 and luggage system embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the improved layer member 140 is a generally self-contained member that is preferably sized to lie flat and fit within standard luggage containers and may be used with other similarly sized and configured layer members 140 that are stacked to preferably lie flat in a standard luggage container. Alternately, the layer member 140 may be transported alone without placing the layer member 140 into a standard luggage container. As shown, the layer member 140 includes a front surface 146, a back member 156 and a circumferential sidewall 142 that extends along the periphery of the layer member 140 between the front and back surfaces thereof. The sidewall 142 preferably includes side surfaces 148, a bottom surface 150 and a top surface 152. Each of these surfaces extend forwardly from the back member 156 of the layer member 140 a distance that is sufficient to allow the pockets 18 or pouches 46 to be retained within the layer member 140 when the front surface 146 of the layer member 140 is closed by the front member 154 and zipper 144.
FIG. 27 illustrates the improved packing insert or layer member 140 with the pockets 18 or pouches 46 removed and the front member 154 of the layer member 140 in the open position. The front member 154 is shown extended above the top surface 152 of the sidewall 142. As shown in this embodiment, a variety of snap members 160 may be configured along the back member 156 of the layer member 140. As described above, the snaps (described above) or snap members 160 may be aligned in a variety of configurations to allow the user to select and attach the desired pockets 18 or pouches 46. The front member 154 is shown as being partially folded and may be fully folded or rolled up prior to use or during storage to be positioned adjacent to the top surface 152 of the layer member 140 and the hanger system 120 as generally shown in FIG. 28 with the layer member 140 not fully extended.
The sidewall 142 extends between front surface 146 and back member 156 of the layer member 140 and is formed of a flexible material such as a cloth, plastic or canvas and includes a zipper 144 that extends along substantially the entire front surface 146 of the layer member 140. The sidewall 142 forms a protective surface along the sides of the layer member 140 to protect the pockets 18 and pouches 46 of the present embodiment. The zipper 144 preferably extends along at least three of the four sides of the side wall 142 to enable the front member 154 to be securely zipped and closed as shown in FIG. 26. In this embodiment, the zipper 144 extends along the sides 148 and bottom surface 150 of the side wall 142 to enable the user to unzip the front member 154 to allow access to the pockets 18 and pouches 46 secured in the layer member 140 and fully expose the contents of the layer member 140 as shown in FIG. 27. The top surface 152 of the side wall 142 of one form of this embodiment does not include the zipper 144 to allow the front member 154 of the layer member 140 secured to at least a portion of the sidewall 142 and to be folded out of the way when the contents of the layer member 140 are accessed. Alternately, the zipper 144 may extend along the top surface 152 and side surfaces 148 of the sidewall 142 or extend along the bottom surface 150, side surfaces 148 and at least a portion of the top surface 152 of the sidewall 142.
The front member 154 of the layer member 140 is preferably formed of a clear or opaque material to allow the user to view the contents of the layer member 140 without unzipping the layer member 140. The front member 154 is also sufficiently flexible to allow the front member 154 to be folded or rolled up to allow access to the contents of the layer member 140. In the rolled up configuration, the front member 154 may be positioned along the top surface 152 of the sidewall 142 without interfering with the hanger system 120 described above. In this configuration, the attachment member 155 may be used to retain the front member 154 in the rolled up or folded configuration such that the front member 154 does not interfere with access to the pouches or pockets.
As shown in FIGS. 26-29, the preferred embodiment includes a front member 154 having an opening such a hanger slot 158 therein thereon to allow the front member 154 to be retained in the retracted position by positioning the hanger element 122 through the hanger slot 158. Alternately, the front member may be retracted by being engaged with attachment member 155 of the hanger system 120 in the retracted position of the front member 154. As shown, the attachment member 155 is preferably located along the top surface 152 of the sidewall 142 or as part of the hanger system 120. One form of this attachment system for the front member 154 may include a pair of magnetic members with one on the front member 154 and one located as part of the hanger system 120 on the top surface 152 of the sidewall 142.
Alternately, a preferred form of the front member 154 may include the hanger slot 158 as shown in FIGS. 26-29. The hanger slot 158 is located on the front member 154 and allows the front member to be folded over in a veil type of retracted configuration. The front member 154 is retained in this retracted position by placing the hanger element 122 of the hanger system 120 through the hanger slot 158 on the front member 154. In this configuration, the front member extends over the hanger system 120 and along the back surface of the layer member 140 as shown in FIG. 29. The hanger element 122 extends through the hanger slot 158 in the front member to allow the layer member to be retrained on a support system while the front member 154 is out of the way to allow access to the pockets or pouches. Further forms of this may include hook and loop arrangements or a pair of snaps to allow the user to fold the front member 154 to be retained out of the way to allow ready access to the pouches of the layer member 140.
The packing insert assembly 10 of the present invention may include multiple packing layers 20, 30, 40, 50 and 140. Each of these packing layers may include one or both of the sidewalls 140 and zipper 144 and the hanger system 120 described herein. The layer member 140 may lie flat and be used as a single piece of luggage or as part of multiple self-contained layer members that may be transported as individual components or may be placed in standard luggage containers to allow multiple layers to be conveniently transported.
It is to be realized that only preferred embodiments of the invention have been described and numerous substitutions, modifications and alterations are permitted without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims. For example, although pockets are shown and described in the present disclosure, it is anticipated that a variety of pockets, pouches or other storage components may be used without departing from the present invention.

Claims

I claim:

1. A packing system comprising:

A first packing insert comprising a first backing sheet formed of a flexible material;

a plurality of attachment elements provided on the first backing sheet;

a plurality of pocket members each having a front surface and a back surface and at least one attachment element adapted for the removable attachment to a corresponding attachment element on the first backing sheet;

a sidewall on the first packing insert wherein the sidewall extends forwardly from the periphery of the backing sheet;

a flexible front member attachable to the sidewalls of the first packing insert wherein the front member is movable between closed and open positions;

a zipper extending along the majority of the front member to enclose the pocket members within the first packing insert when the zipper attaches the sidewall and front member together and allowing access to the pocket members when the zipper is unzipped to allow access to the pocket members; and

the front member formed of a flexible material that allows visual access to observe the pocket members in the closed position thereof and allows physical access to the pocket members in the open position wherein the zipper is at least partially unzipped.

2. The packing system of claim 1, wherein the first packing insert includes the sidewall having top, side and bottom surfaces and wherein the top surface includes a hanger system thereon; and

The hanger system including a hanger element and a rotatable element wherein the hanger system is movable with respect to the first packing insert between an extended position wherein the hanger element extends above the top surface of the sidewall and a retracted position wherein the hanger element is generally adjacent to the sidewall.

3. The packing system of claim 2 wherein the hanger element is generally aligned with the first backing sheet in the retracted position.

4. The packing system of claim 2 wherein the hanger system further includes a sleeve member and wherein the rotatable member is movable relative to the sleeve member when the hanger element is moved between the retracted and extended positions.

5. The packing system of claim 2 wherein the hanger system further includes a sleeve member and wherein the sleeve member is positioned adjacent to the top surface of the sidewall and the first backing sheet.

6. The packing system of claim 1 wherein the packing insert includes the sidewall having top, side and bottom surfaces wherein the top surface includes a hanger system thereon; and

the hanger system includes a hanger element, a sleeve, a connector and a rotatable element wherein the hanger element is movable with respect to the first packing insert between an extended position wherein the hanger element extends above the top surface of the sidewall and a retracted position.

7. The packing system of claim 6 wherein the hanger element and rotatable element are movable relative to the sleeve between the extended and retracted positions of the hanger element.

8. The packing system of claim 6 wherein the hanger element is movable relative to the sidewall and backing sheet of the packing insert between the extended and retracted positions of the hanger element and the hanger element is generally aligned with the backing sheet in the retracted position.

9. The packing system of claim 6 wherein the sleeve and connector are positioned adjacent to the top surface of the sidewall and are aligned with the backing sheet of the packing insert.

10. The packing system of claim 1 further including a second packing insert comprising a second backing sheet formed of a flexible material;

a plurality of attachment elements provided on the second backing sheet;

a plurality of pocket members each having a front surface and a back surface and at least one attachment element adapted for the removable attachment to a corresponding attachment element on the second backing sheet;

a sidewall on the first packing insert wherein the sidewall extends forwardly from the periphery of the second backing sheet;

a flexible front member attachable to the sidewalls of the second packing insert wherein the front member is movable between closed and open positions;

a zipper extending along the majority of the front member to enclose the pocket members within the second packing insert when the zipper attaches the sidewall and front member together and allowing access to the pocket members when the zipper is unzipped to allow access to the pocket members; and

11. A packing system comprising:

a plurality of attachment elements provided on the first backing sheet;

a sidewall on the first packing insert wherein the sidewall extends forwardly from the periphery of the backing sheet and includes top, bottom and side surfaces;

a flexible front member attachable to the sidewalls of the first packing insert wherein the front member is movable between closed and open positions and the front member is formed of a flexible material that allows visual access to observe the pocket members in the closed position thereof and allows physical access to the pocket members in the open position; and

a hanger system adjacent to the top surface of the sidewall wherein the hanger system includes a hanger element and a rotatable member wherein the hanger element is movable between retracted and extended positions and the hanger element extends above the top surface of the sidewall in the extended position and is generally aligned with the backing sheet in the retracted position.

12. The packing system of claim 11 wherein a zipper extends along the majority of the front member to enclose the pocket members within the first packing insert when the zipper attaches the sidewall and front member together and allowing access to the pocket members when the zipper is unzipped to allow access to the pocket members.

13. The packing system of claim 11 wherein the hanger system is aligned along the top surface of the side wall and the backing sheet.

14. The packing system of claim 13 wherein the hanger system includes a connector attached to the backing sheet.

15. The packing system of claim 14 wherein the hanger system includes a sleeve attached to the connector and wherein the rotatable member is movably retained in the sleeve.

16. The packing system of claim 11 wherein the hanger system includes the hanger element affixed to the rotatable element and a sleeve wherein the sleeve is attached to the packing system via a connector and the rotatable element is movable relative to the sleeve and the top surface of the sidewall.

17. A packing system comprising:

a plurality of attachment elements provided on the first backing sheet;

a flexible front member attachable to the sidewalls of the first packing insert wherein the front member is movable between closed and open positions and the front member is formed of a flexible material that allows visual access to observe the pocket members in the closed position thereof and allows physical access to the pocket members in the open position;

a hanger system adjacent to the top surface of the sidewall wherein the hanger system includes an elongate hanger element and a rotatable member wherein the hanger element is movable between retracted and extended positions and the hanger element extends above the top surface of the sidewall in the extended position and is generally aligned with the backing sheet in the retracted position.

18. The packing system of claim 17, wherein the hanger system includes the hanger element affixed to the rotatable element and a sleeve wherein the sleeve is attached to the packing system via a connector and the rotatable element is movable relative to the sleeve and the top surface of the sidewall.

19. The packing system of claim 17, wherein the hanger system is adjacent to the top surface of the sidewall and is generally aligned with the backing sheet of the first packing insert.