US20220304454A1

US20220304454A1 - Rucking system

Info

Publication number: US20220304454A1
Application number: US17/839,985
Authority: US
Inventors: Jason Jerome MCCARTHY; Michael J. WALTHER; James Alex EMERSON
Original assignee: Goruck Holdings LLC
Current assignee: Goruck Holdings LLC
Priority date: 2020-10-22
Filing date: 2022-06-14
Publication date: 2022-09-29

Abstract

An embodiment of the present disclosure of a rucking system that includes a stackable plate assembly having a first plate and a second plate.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to and benefit of U.S. patent application Serial No. 17/508,573, filed Oct. 22, 2021, which in turn claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/104,193, filed Oct. 22, 2020, the contents of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a rucking article.

BACKGROUND

Rucking is an exercise regimen that is used in military training protocols to build strength and endurance. A person carries a weighted sack or bag while completing various activities, like running, push-ups, etc. Specially designed nicking articles can be worn like a backpack and also include compartments for holding weighted plates, or nicking plates.
Stability during use is important because of a wide range of upper and lower body movements involved in traditional nicking training protocols. The nicking article should carry weight but not necessarily inhibit a user's balance and agility across a wide range of body movements during use. Such a design allows a user to customize workout routines based on the desired regimen.
Conventional exercise articles often cause discomfort due to insufficient lumbar support, lack of padding, and abrasive fabrics that result in friction burns, constricted movement during exercise regimens, and injury.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a nicking system that includes a nicking article and/or a plurality of stackable weighted plates that can slidingly fit within a pocket of the nicking article.
An embodiment of the present disclosure includes a nicking system having a nicking article, a first plate, and a second plate. The nicking article includes a base, a top spaced from the base, lateral sides that extend from the base toward the top, a front panel coupled to the base, and a back panel coupled to the base, the top, and the lateral sides. The back panel includes an exterior side, an interior side opposite the exterior side, and a first pocket on the interior side, wherein the first pocket has an internal pocket volume. The first plate includes a first length, a first width that is perpendicular to the first length, a first thickness that is perpendicular to the first length and the first width, and a first weight. The second plate includes a second length, a second width that is perpendicular to the second length, a second thickness that is perpendicular to the second length and the second width, and a second weight that is the same as the first weight or greater than the first weight. The first length and the second length are substantially the same and the first width and the second width are substantially the same, such that, when the first plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other to form a plate assembly, the plate assembly slidingly fits in substantially an entirety of the internal pocket volume of the first pocket.
Another embodiment of the disclosure is a rucking system having a first plate and a second plate. The first plate includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first length that extends from the first end to the second end, a first width that is perpendicular to the first length, a first thickness that is perpendicular to the first length and the first width, and a first weight. The first length is greater than the first width and the first thickness. The second plate includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a second length that extends from the first end of the second plate to the second end of the second plate, a second width that is perpendicular to the second length, a second thickness that is perpendicular to the second length and the second width, and a second weight that is the same as the first weight or greater than the first weight. The second length is greater than the second width and the second thickness. The first length of the first plate and the second length of the second plate are substantially the same and the first width of the first plate and the second width of the second plate are substantially the same, such that, when the first plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other, the first and second plates slidingly fit in an internal pocket volume of a pocket inside a nicking article.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the present application, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present application, there is shown in the drawings illustrative embodiments of the disclosure. It should be understood, however, that the application is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a nicking article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the nicking article shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the nicking article shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the nicking article shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the nicking article shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a plan view of a front panel of the nicking article shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is an interior view of the front panel shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an interior view of the back panel of the nicking article shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a plan view of the exterior of the back panel shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the back panel shown in FIG. 8, taken along line I-I;

FIG. 11 is another side view of the nicking article shown in FIG. 1, with shoulder straps removed to illustrate the lumbar support members;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a first weighted plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a side view of the first weighted plate shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a back plan view of the first weighted plate shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a top plan view of a second weighted plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a side view of the second weighted plate shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a back plan view of the second weighted plate shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a side view showing the first and second weighted plates illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 15, stacked and configured as a plate assembly; and

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the plate assembly shown in FIG. 18.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a rucking system 1 that includes nicking article 2 and/or a plurality of stackable weighted plates 120 and 220 that can slidingly fit within a pocket of the nicking article. The stackable weighted plates may include a first weighted plate 120, which may be a 10 lb. plate and a second weighted plate 220, which may be a 20 lb. plate. The weighted plates are generally referred to herein as plates or ruck plates. By combining the first and second weighted plates 120, 220 into a plate assembly 105, and inserting the plate assembly in the pocket of the nicking article, the user can tailor the weight placed in the nicking article for a given exercise regimen. The dimensions and location of through holes in the weighted plates 120, 220 allow for a precise dimension to be attained, which allow the weighted plates to held by the pocket, while achieving a given load in the rucking article, such as at least 30 lbs.
A rucking article may be referred to as a nicking sack, rucker, or nick sack, and is specifically configured to hold weighted plates, e.g., ruck plates. The nicking article is designed to be carried, lifted, etc., by the user, during physical activity as a training regimen. The nicking article 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a combination of features that improves stability when worn and when the user engages in an exercise regimen that involves a wide range of upper and lower body movements. More specifically, the inclusion of lumbar support members 42 (FIGS. 2, 3, 5), a rigid internal frame assembly 68 (FIGS. 9 and 10), and a sternum strap 24 (FIG. 2) combine to establish both rucking article stability and rigid support that helps better distribute loads across the user's upper and lower back during use. Stability and rigid support are advantageous results of the construction of the nicking article described herein, especially when the user is carrying weighted plates inside the article while also engaging in strenuous exercise.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the rucking article 2 includes a base 4, a top 6 spaced from the base 4, lateral sides 8, 10, a front panel 30 coupled to the base 4, and a back panel 50 coupled to the base 4, the top 6, and lateral sides 8, 10. A pair of shoulder straps 14, 16 are configured to secure the nicking article 2 to a user and the sternum strap 24 is removably coupled to the shoulder straps 14, 16 to contribute to article stability during use, as described above. A closure system 12 may be used to selectively open and close the nicking article 2 to permit access to an interior of the article 2, as will be further described below.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the base 4 and top 6 are spaced apart along a height direction A, the front panel and back panel are spaced part along a depth direction B, and the lateral sides 8,10 extend between the front panel 30 and the back panel 50 along the depth direction B. The lateral sides 8, 10 are spaced apart with respect to each other along a lateral (or width) direction C. Thus, the height direction A is substantially perpendicular to the depth direction B and lateral direction C. The orthogonal directions A, B, and C are used in the present disclosure only for illustrative purposes to aid in clarifying the relative positions of components of the nicking article 2.
As shown in FIG. 4, the base 4 of the rucking article 2 includes opposed inner and outer edges and opposed sides (not numbered) that extend between the opposed inner and outer edges (not numbered). The base 4 is comprised of durable woven fabrics that may encase a cushion member, e.g., a foam, felt, batting, or other compressible material.
Referring to FIGS. 3-5, the lateral sides 8, 10 and the top 6 may be defined by a sidewall assembly 22 that is fixed to the back panel 50 and base 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall assembly 22 defines a rearward edge 26 coupled to the base 4 and the back panel 50 and an outward edge 28 that includes a first closure element 18 of the closure system 12. The closure system 12 thus removably secures a portion of the front panel 30 to the sidewall assembly 22. In an alternative embodiment, however, the top 6 and lateral sides 8, 10 could also be separate components that are coupled together. The sidewall assembly 22 may be comprised of durable woven fabrics that may optionally encase a cushion member.
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the front panel 30 is coupled to the base 4 and removably coupled to the top 6 and lateral sides 8, 10 via the closure system 12. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the front panel 30 has an exterior side 32, shown in FIG. 6, an interior side 34, shown in FIG. 7, and an outer perimeter 36. The exterior side 32 includes an external zippered pocket 38 and webbing loops 40 located toward a bottom end (not numbered) of the front panel 30. Webbing loops 40 may be used to removably couple various items to the nicking article 2. The interior side 34 includes several pockets (not numbered) for holding items as needed, as best shown in FIG. 7. The front panel 30 includes a second closure element 20 of the closure system 12. As illustrated, the second closure element 20 extends along a majority of the outer perimeter 36, for example, along both lateral sides and top of the outer perimeter 36. The front panel is comprised of durable woven fabrics and may include high tenacity yarns to form the woven fabrics.
FIGS. 1-4 illustrate the back panel 50. The back panel 50 is shown coupled to the base 4, the top 6, and the lateral sides 8, 10 and removably coupled to front panel 30. In terms of construction, as shown in FIGS. 8-11, the back panel 50 has a bottom edge 56 coupled to the base 4, a top edge 58 opposite the bottom edge 56 coupled to the top 6, a first lateral edge 60, and a second lateral edge 62 opposite the first lateral edge 60. The back panel 50 has an exterior side 52 that faces a user's back when the nicking article 2 is worn by the user, and an interior side 54 opposite the exterior side 52. The back panel 50 defines a panel height H that extends from the bottom edge 56 to the top edge 58 and a width W that is perpendicular to the height H. Referring to FIG. 10, which is a schematic cross-section of the back panel 50, the back panel 50 has one or more panel layers that hold and secure various components of the back panel 50 as further explained below.
Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the back panel 50 includes a plurality of pad members 64, a lumbar support member 42, and an internal frame assembly 68 encased within a compartment of the back panel 50. An exterior panel layer 70 defines the exterior side 52 of the back panel 50. The exterior panel layer 70 and interior panel layer 72 encase one or more cushion elements, which form and define the plurality of pad members 64 and lumbar support member 42. The cushion elements may comprise an open cell foam, closed cell foam or any other compressible and resilient material suitable to provide support. In one useful example, the lumbar support member 42 comprises a cross-linked polyolefin foam and the plurality of pad members comprise cross-linked polyolefin foam. Adjacent to the interior panel layer 72 is the internal frame assembly 68 and adjacent to that is another panel layer 74, to which a pocket assembly 94 is attached. Panel layer 74 may define a portion of the interior side 54 of the back panel 50. A plurality of stitch lines 76 along the exterior panel layer 70 define the size and shape of the plurality of pad members 64 and the lumbar support member 42. The plurality of pad members 64 are shown located on the exterior side 52, extend across the width of back panel 50, and biased toward the top 6 of the article 2. The lumbar support member 42 itself is located between the plurality of pad members 64 and the base 4 and is positioned to support a user's lower back when the rucking article 2 is worn.
Continuing with FIGS. 8-10, it is the size, shape, and position of the lumbar support member 42 that contributes to overall article stability and lower back support. In the illustrated embodiment, the lumbar support member 42 has a base side 82, a first lateral side 84 a, a second lateral side 84 b opposite the first lateral side 84 a, an apex 86 spaced from base side 82, a first top edge 88 a that extends from the first lateral side 84 a to the apex 86, and a second top edge 88 b that extends from the second lateral side 84 b to the apex 86. As shown, the first top edge 88 a and the second top edge 88 b are angularly offset with respect to the first lateral side 84 a and the second lateral side 84 b, respectively. The lumbar support member 42 may have other shapes and configurations as needed. For instance, the first and second top edges 88 a and 88 b may be substantially perpendicular to the lateral sides 84 a and 84 b. There may be multiple separate lumbar support members, as needed.
The lumbar support member 42, or multiple lumber support members as the case may be, has coverage across the back panel 50 that contributes to desired article stability during use. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the lumbar support member 42 extends across an entirety of the width W of the back panel 50. Furthermore, the lumbar support member 42 extends between 10% and 25% of the total height H of the back panel 50.
As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the lumbar support member 42 projects outwardly relative to the pad members 64 sufficient to allow the lumbar support member 42 to contact the user's lower back while allowing the pad members 64 to contact the user's upper back. More specifically, the lumbar support member 42 has an overall thickness that is greater than a thickness of any one of the plurality of pad members 64. Here, we define the thickness T as the difference between elevation of the lumbar support member 42 and the pad members 64. In this regard, the plurality of pad members 64 define a plurality of planar contact surfaces (not numbered) that lie along a first plane P1, and the lumbar support member 42 defines a contact surface (not numbered) that lies along a second plane P2. The thickness T is the distance between plane P1 and plane P2 (along a perpendicular line that intersects both planes P1, P2). In the embodiment shown, the thickness T is between 0.25 inches to 0.5 inches. In one example, the thickness T is 0.25 inches. In another example, the thickness T is 0.3 inches. In another example, the thickness T is 0.375 inches, in another example, the thickness T is 0.40 inches. In another example, the thickness T is 0.5 inches. The thickness T may fall outside these ranges. However, a thickness T between 0.25 and 0.50 inches is particularly useful when combined with other stability features, such as the internal frame assembly 68 and sternum strap 24.
Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the internal frame assembly 68 is encased within a compartment of the back panel 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the internal frame assembly 68 comprises a planar rigid member 90 and a foam layer 92 sitting adjacent the planar rigid member 90. The planar rigid member may be a plastic sheet or metallic sheet as needed. It may comprise a monolithic component or could be multiple components stitched together. It may include through holes or openings for weight reduction. The planar rigid member 90, however, has a size and shape that generally extends across a substantial entirety of the width W of the back panel 50 and a substantial entirety of the height H of the back panel 50. The foam layer 92 sits adjacent the planar rigid member 90 and is generally coextensive with the height and width of the planar rigid member. In other words, the foam layer 92 and planar rigid member 90 have a similar size and shape. The internal frame assembly 68 therefore supports the integrity of the article as it is weighed down, which allows a user to carry a heavier load more comfortably, and also contributes to article stability during use.
Referring to FIGS. 8 and 10, the rucking article 2 is configured to hold weighted plates with the pocket assembly 94. The pocket assembly 94 is coupled to the interior side 54 of the back panel 50 and has at least a first pocket 96 and a second pocket 98. Each of the first and second pockets 96 and 98 are sized and selected to firmly hold a rucking or weighted plate therein. The first pocket 96 has a first pocket panel 100 attached to the interior side 54 of the back panel 50, which defines a pocket length y and a pocket width z. The pocket length y is perpendicular to the pocket width z. The first pocket has a pocket depth (not shown) that is perpendicular to the pocket width z and the pocket length y. Collectively, the pocket length y, pocket width z, and pocket depth define an internal pocket volume. A closure flap 99 is secured to the back panel 50 and is used to open or close access to the first pocket 96. As illustrated, the first pocket panel 100 is spaced apart from the base 4 and lies approximate the top 6, such that the first pocket panel 100 is biased toward the top of the back panel 50. More specifically, a bottom end 102 of the first pocket panel 100 is spaced from the bottom edge 56 of the back panel a distance x that is between 20% and 30% of a total height H of the back panel 50.
The pocket assembly design works in conjunction with the other design elements of the rucking article 2. In this regard, the first pocket 96 does not overlie any portion of the lumbar support member 42 along the exterior side of the back panel. In other words, the first pocket is positioned inside the rucking article 2 so that it does not interfere with position and use of the lumbar support member 42. In use, this can be important as the pocket position keeps the weight elevated on the user's back and permits the lumbar support member 42 to provide support where it is designed to, i.e., the lower back. This, in turns, helps create improved stability for a wearer by aiding even distribution of loads by the internal frame assembly. The sternum strap 24, in turn, also aids stability by helping position the weighted plate where it is intended to be—the user's upper back off of the lumbar area.
The second pocket 98 has a second pocket panel 104 that overlies the first pocket panel 100. The second pocket panel 104 defines a top edge 106 that sits below the closure flap 99 with the closure flap 99 in a closed position. The second pocket 98 may be gusseted or pleated to accommodate one or more plates. An elastic strap 108 extends across the top of the second pocket 98 to help secure items therein.
The rucking article 2 includes shoulder straps 14, 16 that extend between the top and lateral sides proximate the top and partially overlay the back panel 50. The shoulder straps are configured to secure the rucking article 2 to a wearer. In certain embodiments, the shoulder straps 14, 16 are extra padded to carry heavier loads more comfortably.
The sternum strap 24 is removably coupled to the shoulder straps and configured to be selectively clasped as needed to facilitate improved stability. The sternum strap includes a first strap portion (not shown) removably coupled to shoulder strap 16, a second strap portion (not shown) removably coupled to shoulder strap 14, a first clasp member 110 slidably positioned along the first strap portion, and a second clasp member 112 slidably positioned along the second strap portion. The first and second clasp members 110, 112 can be connected together as needed. The sternum strap 24 can be repositioned along different loops coupled to the shoulder strap to adjust the positioning of the sternum strap 24 relative to the user. The combination of the lumbar support members 42 (FIGS. 2, 3, 5), a rigid internal frame assembly 68 (FIGS. 9 and 10), and sternum strap 24 (FIG. 2) are configured to maintain stability of the nicking article 2 during active movement by the wearer when the rucking article is worn, and the sternum strap is clasped.
FIGS. 12-19 illustrate exemplary weighted plates 120, 220 for insertion in the first and second pockets 96 and 98. In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, two or more weighted plates 120, 220 can be stacked together and inserted in the pockets 96 and/or 98, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. In the illustrated embodiment, each weighted plate 120, 220 has a length, width, and thickness (as further described below) that are selected such that the weighted plates slidingly fit within the first pocket 96 or second pocket 98 without substantial movement therein. In other words, the pockets 96, 98 and weighted plates 120, 220 have similar dimensions. In addition, the size and location of through holes in the weighted plates 120, 220 allow for a precise dimension and desired weight to be attained, which allow the weighted plates to held by the pockets, while achieving a given load in the nicking article 2. While the weighted plates are described as being a 10 lbs. plate and a 20 lbs. plate, the weighted plates, however, can have a variety of weights. For example, the weighted plates may be 10 lbs., 15 lbs., 20 lbs., 25 lbs., 30 lbs., 35 lbs., 40 lbs., 45 lbs. or 50 lbs., with appropriate adjustments in through hole size and dimension to allow at least two weighted plates to be stacked and inserted in the pockets.
Continuing with FIGS. 12-19, the stackable weighted plates may include a first weighted plate 120 and a second weighted plate 220. The first weighted plate 120 may be a 10 lb. plate and the second weighted plate 220 may be a 20 lb. plate. By combining the first and second weighted plates 120, 220 into the plate assembly 105, and inserting the plate assembly 105 in the first and second pockets 96, 98, a user can tailor the weight placed in the nicking article for a given exercise regimen.
Continuing with FIGS. 12-14, the plate assembly 105 includes the first weighted plate 120 and the second weighted plate 220, as discussed above. The first weighted plate 120 may have dimensions selected to fit within the pockets 96 or 98. For example, the first weighted plate 120 includes a plate body 121 having first and second opposed ends 122 and 124, first and second opposed sides 126 and 128, first and second opposed outer surfaces 130 and 132, and at least two through holes 134 and 136. The first weighted plate 120 has a length L1 that extends from the first end 122 to the second end 124, a width W1 that extends from the first side 126 to the second side 128, and a thickness T1 that extends from the first surface 130 to the second surface 132. The length L1, width W1, and thickness T1 are perpendicular to each other. For a 10 lb. plate, the length L1 may be 11.50 inches, the width W1 may be 9 inches, and thickness T1 may be 0.52 inches.
Referring again to FIGS. 12-14, the first weighted plate 120 may have at least two through holes 134, 136. More specifically, first through hole 134 extends from the first surface 130 to the second surface 132 along the thickness T1. The plate body 121 defines the length and width dimensions of the through hole. In the illustrated embodiment, the length A of through hole 134 extends from a first inner surface 138 to a second inner surface 140 along a direction that is parallel to the length L1 of the plate body 121. The width B of through hole 134 also extends from a third inner surface 142 to a fourth inner surface 144 along a direction that is parallel to the width W1 of the plate body 121. The second through hole 136 has substantially the same dimensions as the first through hole 134. For a 10 lb. plate, the length A of the through holes 134 and 136 may be about 2 inches, while the width B may be about 6.625 inches. Furthermore, the center points (not shown) of the first through hole 134 and the second through hole 136 are located a distance that is closer to the first end 122 and the second end 124, respectively, than a distance the through holes 134 and 136 are located relative to a centerline (not shown) of the first weighted plate 120 (where the centerline is equidistant the first end 122 and the second end 124). In this way, the through holes 134, 136 create a type of handle on each weighted plate that allows a user to easily grab and insert the weighted plate into the pockets 96 or 98. In one example, the first through hole 134 and second through hole 136 are spaced about 2 inches from the first end 122 and second end 124, respectively. In addition, the first through hole 134 and second through hole 136 are 1.188 inches from the first side 126 and second side 128, respectively.
As shown in FIGS. 15-17, the second weighted plate 220 may have dimensions selected to fit within the pockets 96 or 98. For example, the second weighted plate 220 includes a plate body 221 having first and second opposed ends 222 and 224, first and second opposed sides 226 and 228, first and second opposed outer surfaces 230 and 232, and at least two through holes 234 and 236. The second weighted plate 220 has a length L2 that extends from the first end 222 to the second end 224, a width W2 that extends from the first side 226 to the second side 228, and a thickness T2 that extends from the first surface 230 to the second surface 232. The length L2, width W2, and thickness T2 are perpendicular to each other. For a 20 lb. plate, the length L2 may be 11.5 inches, the width W2 may be 9 inches, and thickness T2 may be 0.84 inches. In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, the length and width of the first weighted plate 120 and the second weighted plate 220 are substantially the same. In other words, the length L1 of the first weighted plate 120 and the length L2 of the second weighted plate 220 are substantially the same. Similarly, the width W1 of the first weighted plate 120 and the width W2 of the second weighted plate 220 are substantially the same. Thus, when stacked together to create the plate assembly 105, the first and second ends and the first and second sides of each weighted plate are substantially coplanar. Additionally, when the first weighted plate 120 and the second weighted plate 220 are stacked adjacent to each other, the first and second weighted plates slidingly fit in the internal pocket volume of the first pocket of the nicking article.
Continuing with FIGS. 15-17, the second weighted plate 220 may have at least two through holes 234, 236. More specifically, first through hole 234 extends from the first surface 230 to the second surface 232 along the thickness T2. The plate body 221 defines the length and width dimensions of the through hole. In the illustrated embodiment, the length D of through hole 234 extends from a first inner surface 238 to a second inner surface 240 along a direction that is parallel to the length L2 of the plate body 221. The width E of through hole 234 also extends from a third inner surface 242 to a fourth inner surface 244 along a direction that is parallel to the width W2 of the plate body 221. The second through hole 236 of the second weighted plate 220 has substantially the same dimensions as the first through hole 234. For a 20 lb. plate, the length D of the through holes 234 and 236 may be about 1.25 inches, while the width E may be about 4.125 inches. Furthermore, the center points (not shown) of the first through hole 234 and the second through hole 236 are located a distance that is closer to the first end 222 and the second end 224, respectively, than a distance the through holes 234 and 236 are located relative to a centerline (not shown) of the second weighted plate 220 (where the centerline is equidistant the first end 222 and the second end 224). In this way, the through holes 234, 236 create a type of handle on each weighted plate that allows a user to easily grab and insert the weighted plate into the pockets 96 or 98. In one example, for the 20 lb. weighted plate 220, the first through hole 234 and second through hole 236 are spaced about 1 inches from the first end 222 and second end 224, respectively. In addition, the first through hole 234 and second through hole 236 are 2.43 inches from the first side 226 and second side 228, respectively. The dimensions of the first and second through holes of the first weighted plate 120 are different from dimensions of the first and second through holes of the second weighted plate 220.
Referring now to FIGS. 1-6, the closure system 12 may be used to selectively open and close the nicking article 2 to permit access to an interior of the article 2. The closure system 12 includes a first closure element 18 fixed to an entirety of the outward edge 28 of the sidewall assembly 22. A second closure element 20 is fixed to the top and side edges of the front panel 30. The front panel 30 is coupled, or fixed, to the base 4. The first and second closure elements 18 and 20 are thus configured to selectively engage with each other so that a portion of the front panel 30 is removably coupled to the top 6 and at least a portion of each of the lateral sides 8, 10 of the rucking article 2. In this configuration, the rucking article 2 can open flat so that it is easier to access the internal pockets and otherwise organize its contents. In alternative embodiments, the closure system 12, e.g., the first and second closure elements 18, 20, may extend along only a portion of the lateral sides and/or top of the nicking article 2. For example, the closure system 12 may extend along only the top of the rucking article 2. In various embodiments of the nicking article 2, the closure system 12, e.g., a zipper, can be made with silent, glove friendly zipper pulls constructed from parachute cord, which, in one example is a 550 denier cord. Other types of closures, pulls, and cord sizes may be used.
Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the base 4 also includes a durable handle 27 that can be used to grab the article as described further below and the top 6 include a durable handle 29. Though not shown, the lateral sides can further comprise side durable handles. The base 4 may include various reinforced drainage ports allowing fluid to pass through as needed. The nicking article 2 may also include a hip belt assembly coupled thereto proximate the base 4. The top 6 also includes a port 123 (FIG. 5) with a hook and loop closure overlying the port. The port 123 is sized for a tube of a hydration bladder positionable inside the nicking article 2. High visibility straps may be used as a reflective member and may be placed along the shoulder straps and on the front panel for safety.
Each of the various components, such as the back panel, front panel, top, base, and sides are comprised of durable woven fabrics. The article is comprised of tear and wear resistant fabrics comprised of 1000 denier CORDURA® yarns. Any number of weave constructions and deniers may be used, however. However, a less abrasive fabric may be used on the back panel and underside of the shoulder straps to reduce friction and the like. The back panel and shoulder straps, for example, may be comprised of woven fabrics comprising 210 denier, High Tenacity CORDURA® yarns.
The nicking article 2, in general, has a size and shape to fit comfortably on the user's upper torso. More specifically, the nicking article 2 has an overall width W that extends from lateral side 8 to lateral side 10, an overall height H that extends from the base 4 to the top 6 and that is perpendicular to the overall width W, and an overall depth D that extends from an exterior side 52 of the back panel 50 to the exterior side 32 of the front panel 30. The overall depth D is substantially perpendicular to the overall height H and the overall width W. In one exemplary embodiment, the rucking article 2 has an overall width W between 10.0 inches and 13.0 inches, an overall height H between 15.0 inches and 22.0 inches, and an overall depth D between 4.0 inches and 7.25 inches. Furthermore, the nicking article 2 is designed to have an overall weight that can vary between about 2.30 lbs. and about 3.30 lbs. In some cases, the overall weight of the nicking article may vary outside of these specific ranges.
While the disclosure is described herein, using a limited number of embodiments, these specific embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure as otherwise described and claimed herein. The precise arrangement of various elements and order of the steps of articles and methods described herein are not to be considered limiting. For instance, although the steps of the methods are described with reference to sequential series of reference signs and progression of the blocks in the figures, the method can be implemented in an order as desired.

Claims

1. A rucking system, comprising:

a rucking article having a base, a top spaced from the base, lateral sides that extend from the base toward the top, a front panel coupled to the base, a back panel coupled to the base, the top, and the lateral sides, the back panel having an exterior side, an interior side opposite the exterior side, and a first pocket on the interior side, wherein the first pocket has an internal pocket volume;

a first plate having a first length, a first width that is perpendicular to the first length, a first thickness that is perpendicular to the first length and the first width, and a first weight; and

a second plate having a second length, a second width that is perpendicular to the second length, a second thickness that is perpendicular to the second length and the second width, and a second weight that is the same as the first weight or greater than the first weight,

wherein the first length and the second length are substantially the same and the first width and the second width are substantially the same, such that, when the first plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other to form a plate assembly, the plate assembly slidingly fits in substantially an entirety of the internal pocket volume of the first pocket.

2. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first plate has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side, and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second plate has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side, and a second side opposite the first side, wherein when the first plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other to form the plate assembly, the first ends of the first and second plates are coplanar, the second ends of the first and second plates are coplanar, the first sides of the first and second plates are coplanar, and the second sides of the first and second plates are coplanar.

3. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first plate has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side, and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first length extends from the first end to the second end of the first plate, the first width extends from the first side to the second side of the first plate, wherein the first length is about 11.5 inches and the first width is about 9 inches.

4. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first weight of the first plate is 10 lbs., and the second weight of the second plate is 20 lbs.

5. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first plate has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side, and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first plate has a first through hole that extends along the first thickness, and a second through hole that extends along the first thickness, wherein the first and second through holes are positioned a distance that is closer to the first end and the second end, respectively, than a distance to a centerline of the first plate, wherein the centerline is equidistant between the first end and the second end, and is parallel to the first width.

6. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first plate has a first through hole that extends along the first thickness, and a second through hole that extends along the first thickness, wherein the second plate has a first through hole that extends along the second thickness, and a second through hole that extends along the second thickness, wherein dimensions of the first and second through holes of the first plate are different from dimensions of the first and second through holes of the second plate.

7. The nicking system according to claim 1, further comprising a pocket assembly having at least the first pocket comprising a first pocket panel attached to the interior side of the back panel, wherein the first pocket panel is spaced apart from the base and lies proximate the top, such that the first pocket panel is biased toward the top of the back panel.

8. The nicking system according to claim 7, wherein the rucking article further comprises:

a plurality of pad members on the exterior side that extend across a width of the back panel; and

a lumbar support member located between the plurality of pad members and the base, wherein the lumbar support member has a thickness that is greater than a thickness of any one of the plurality of pad members,

wherein the first pocket does not overlie any portion of the lumbar support member.

9. The nicking system according to claim 8, wherein the back panel has a height that extends from the base to the top, and a width that is perpendicular to the height, wherein a bottom end of the first pocket panel is spaced from a bottom edge of the back panel a distance that is between 20% and 30% of a total height of the back panel.

10. The nicking system according to claim 9, wherein the pocket assembly includes a second pocket comprising a second pocket panel that overlies the first pocket panel.

11. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the back panel has a height that extends from the base to the top, and a width that is perpendicular to the height, wherein the nicking article further comprises:

a plurality of pad members on the exterior side that extend across a width of the back panel;

a lumbar support member located between the plurality of pad members and the base, wherein the lumbar support member has a thickness that is greater than a thickness of any one of the plurality of pad members;

a closure that removably couples the front panel to the top and at least a portion of each of the lateral sides, such that the closure is configured to permit access to an interior of the nicking article;

a pocket assembly coupled to the interior side of the back panel, the pocket assembly having at least the first pocket, the first pocket having a pocket width, a pocket length that is perpendicular to the pocket width, a pocket depth that is perpendicular to the pocket width and the pocket length, and a closure flap, wherein the pocket length, pocket width and pocket depth define the internal pocket volume; and

an internal frame assembly inside a compartment of the back panel, the internal frame assembly extending from the base to the top within the compartment, such that, the internal frame assembly provides rigid support to the back panel along an entirety of the height of the back panel and the width of the back panel.

12. The nicking system according to claim 11, further comprising shoulder straps configured to secure the nicking article to a wearer, and a sternum strap removably coupled to the shoulder straps and configured to be selectively clasped.

13. The nicking system according to claim 12, wherein the combination of the lumbar support member, the internal frame assembly, and the sternum strap are configured to maintain stability of the nicking system during active movement by the wearer when the nicking article is worn, and the sternum strap is clasped.

14. The nicking system according to claim 12, wherein the lumbar support member extends across an entirety of the width of the back panel, and between 10% and 25% of the height of the back panel.

15. The nicking system according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of pad members define a plurality of planar contact surfaces that lie along a first plane, and the lumbar support member defines a contact surface that lies along a second plane, wherein a thickness between the lumbar support member and any one of the plurality of pad members extends perpendicularly from the first plane to the second plane and is between 0.25 inches to 0.5 inches.

16. The nicking system according to claim 11, wherein the internal frame assembly comprises a planar rigid member and a foam layer adjacent to the planar rigid member.

17. A rucking system, comprising:

a first plate having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first length that extends from the first end to the second end, a first width that is perpendicular to the first length, a first thickness that is perpendicular to the first length and the first width, and a first weight, wherein the first length is greater than the first width and the first thickness; and

a second plate having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a second length that extends from the first end of the second plate to the second end of the second plate, a second width that is perpendicular to the second length, a second thickness that is perpendicular to the second length and the second width, and a second weight that is the same as the first weight or greater than the first weight, wherein the second length is greater than the second width and the second thickness,

wherein the first length of the first plate and the second length of the second plate are substantially the same and the first width of the first plate and the second width of the second plate are substantially the same, such that, when the first plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other, the first and second plates slidingly fit in an internal pocket volume of a pocket inside a nicking article.

18. The nicking system according to claim 17, wherein the first plate has a first side, and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second plate has a first side, and a second side opposite the first side, wherein when the first plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other to form a plate assembly, an entirety of the first ends of the first and second plates are coplanar, an entirety of the second ends of the first and second plates are coplanar, an entirety of the first sides of the first and second plates are coplanar, and an entirety of the second sides of the first and second plates are coplanar.

19. The nicking system according to claim 17, wherein the first plate has a first through hole and a second through hole located at or near first and second ends of the first plate, respectively, wherein the first and second through holes of the first plate extend along the first thickness, wherein the second plate further has a first through hole and a second through hole located at or near opposed ends of the second plate, wherein the first and second through holes of the second plate extend along the second thickness, and dimensions of the first and second through holes of the first plate are different from dimensions of the first and second through holes of the second plate.

20. The nicking system according to claim 17, wherein the first width extends from a first side to a second side of the first plate, wherein the first length is about 11.5 inches and the first width is about 9 inches.

21. The nicking system according to claim 19, wherein the first and second through holes of the first plate are positioned a distance that is closer to the first end and the second end, respectively, of the first plate, than a distance from the first and second through holes to a centerline of the first plate, wherein the centerline is equidistant between the first end and the second end, and is parallel to the first width of the first plate.

22. The nicking system according to claim 21, wherein the first and second through holes of the second plate are positioned a distance that is closer to the first end and the second end, respectively, of the second plate, than a distance from the first and second through holes to a centerline of the second plate, wherein the centerline is equidistant between the first end and the second end, and is parallel to the second width of the second plate.

23. The nicking system according to claim 17, wherein the first weight of the first plate is 10 lbs., and the second weight of the second plate is 20 lbs.

24. The nicking system according to claim 17, further comprising a nicking article having the pocket, wherein the pocket is inside the nicking article and is further sized to slidingly receive the first and second plates when stacked together.

25. The nicking system according to claim 17, further comprising a nicking article, the nicking article having:

a base;

a top spaced from the base;

lateral sides that extend from the base toward the top;

a front panel coupled to the base;

a back panel coupled to the base, the top, and the lateral sides, the back panel having an exterior side, an interior side opposite the exterior side, a height that extends from the base to the top, and a width that is perpendicular to the height;

a plurality of pad members on the exterior side that extend across the width of the back panel;

a pocket assembly coupled to the interior side of the back panel, the pocket assembly having at least the pocket with a pocket width, a pocket length that is perpendicular to the pocket width, a pocket depth that is perpendicular to the pocket width and the pocket length, and a closure flap, wherein the pocket length, pocket width and pocket depth define the internal pocket volume;

an internal frame assembly inside a compartment of the back panel, the internal frame assembly extending from the base to the top within the compartment, such that, the internal frame assembly provides rigid support to the back panel along an entirety of the height of the back panel and the width of the back panel; and

shoulder straps configured to secure the nicking article to a wearer.