US20220312942A1 - Assisted storage container - Google Patents
Assisted storage container Download PDFInfo
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- US20220312942A1 US20220312942A1 US17/710,916 US202217710916A US2022312942A1 US 20220312942 A1 US20220312942 A1 US 20220312942A1 US 202217710916 A US202217710916 A US 202217710916A US 2022312942 A1 US2022312942 A1 US 2022312942A1
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- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims description 35
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- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000004804 winding Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000012190 activator Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000007787 long-term memory Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000005355 Hall effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 239000011800 void material Substances 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F3/04—Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of two straps passing over the two shoulders
- A45F3/047—Sacks or packs carried on the body by means of two straps passing over the two shoulders with adjustable fastenings for the shoulder straps or waist belts
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F2003/001—Accessories
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45F
Definitions
- This application relates to electrically-assisted flexible storage containers. More specifically, this invention relates to bags with motorized assist mechanisms. In some embodiments the invention relates to bags with automatic motorized openings, with some embodiments of the invention having automatic motorized straps or other user interaction mechanism.
- Typical bags and other human portable and flexible storage containers e.g., backpacks
- bags contain an opening for access to the bag's interior when open and containment of the bag's contents when closed.
- Another common feature is a strap for portability.
- the opening is typically closed by a zipper, one or more buckles, or other fastener mechanism on a strap (e.g., a typical messenger bags). These mechanisms are manual and must be physically manipulated by a user.
- the strap on a human portable bag may be adjustable for better function.
- Commonly known backpacks and other bags have a strap made up of two separate pieces. Typically, a first piece is padded that bears the weight of the bag and transfers it to the user. A second piece is threaded through the first piece such that the second piece's length is adjustable. One end of each the first and second pieces are permanently attached to the bag; each piece being attached to the bag at opposite ends. Straps on typical bags are manually adjusted. Manual adjustment of the strap and closure mechanism increase the time and effort needed to operate a bag, and for some disabled individuals makes adjustment difficult of even potentially impossible.
- a desirable solution would have a bag with assisted and automatic adjustment of at least one of the opening and the strap.
- An assisted opening could include a bag with a button or other mechanism easily activatable by a user that would cause the bag to automatically open or close the opening.
- An assisted strap could include a bag with one or more straps that automatically loosen or tighten upon activation of a button or another user-initiated cue.
- the assisted bag has an exterior surface enclosing an interior, an assisted opening that automatically opens and closes upon an action command by a user, and an actuator connected to the assisted opening.
- the assisted bag has at least one assisted strap that automatically loosens and tightens upon an action commended by a user.
- One object of the present disclosure is a bag comprising an exterior surface enclosing an interior, an actuator, and an assisted opening.
- the assisted opening comprising a first surface, a second surface, and a car; wherein the first and second surfaces together form at least part of the exterior surface; and wherein the actuator is configured to adjust the car to create an opening between the first and the second surfaces.
- the actuator is located within the interior.
- the first surface is approximately parallel to the second surface.
- the bag further comprises an activation mechanism that is connected to the actuator; the activation mechanism being configured to reversibly activate the actuator.
- the car reversibly adjusts the first surface away from the second surface.
- the first surface is configured to fold upon itself as the car adjusts the first surface.
- the car physically moves the first surface away from the second surface.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure is method of using a bag having the steps of (a) providing a bag comprising an exterior surface, an actuator, an assisted opening with a first and a second surface and a car; (b) activating the actuator; (c) creating an opening between the first and the second surface by adjusting the first surface with the actuator and the car. In some of these methods, step (c) also adjusts the second surface.
- the bag further comprises an activation mechanism connected to the actuator and the method further has the step of (d) activating the activation mechanism. In some of these methods, step (d) occurs before step (b).
- Some methods have the steps of (e) reversing the actuator; and (f) eliminating the opening by adjusting the first surface with the actuator and the car. In some of these methods, step (f) also adjusts the second surface.
- a third aspect of the present disclosure is a bag comprising an exterior surface enclosing an interior, an actuator, and a strap comprising a first end; wherein the first end is connected to the actuator and the actuator is configured to adjust the strap.
- the strap comprises a second end connected to the exterior surface; and where the actuator is configured to adjust the first end.
- the strap is configured to feed through the actuator.
- the exterior surface has an opening, the actuator is located within the interior, and the strap first end passes through the opening.
- the bag also has a controller that is connected to the actuator. In some of these cases, the controller is located in the interior. In some other cases the bag further has compartment, and the controller and actuator are located within that compartment.
- the bag also has a sensor connected to the controller and the sensor is configured to produce sensor information relating to a force placed onto the sensor.
- the force placed on the sensor is a tension or load placed directly on the strap and sensed by the sensor.
- the controller is further configured to activate the actuator in response to said sensor information.
- a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a method of adjusting a bag, comprising the steps of (a) providing a bag, the bag having an exterior surface and an interior, an actuator, and a strap; the strap having a first end connected to the actuator and a second end; and (b) adjusting the strap through the actuator in a first direction.
- the second end is connected to the exterior surface.
- the second end is connected to a second actuator.
- Some methods further have the step of (c) adjusting the strap through the actuator in a second, reverse direction.
- the bag also has a sensor and a controller, the sensor is configured to produce sensor information relating to a load placed on the sensor and the sensor is informationally connected to the controller; and the controller is connected to the actuator and is configured to activate the controller in response to the sensor information.
- Some of these methods also have the steps of (d) detecting, with the sensor, a load; (e) producing and sending sensor information relating to the sensed load to the controller; (f) determining, with the controller, a user-initiated cue based on the sensor information; and (g) instructing, by the controller, the actuator to activate; and wherein steps (d) through (g) occur before step (b).
- Some of the above methods also have the steps of (h) detecting, with the sensor and the controller, a second user-initiated cue, (i) instructing, by the controller, the actuator to activate, and (j) adjusting the strap through the actuator in a second direction; and wherein steps (h) through (i) occur before step (j).
- FIG. 1A illustrates an assisted bag according to an embodiment having an assisted closure mechanism.
- FIGS. 1B and 1C illustrate two assisted bags according to two embodiments having assisted straps.
- FIGS. 2A-2C are three views of three positions of the car according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A .
- FIGS. 3A and 3B are two side views of two embodiments according to the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 4A and 4B are two views of the electronic compartment and interconnected components according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- bag refers generically to all human portable storage containers.
- the term bag may encompass, but is not limited to, two-strap backpacks, one-strap messenger bags, handbags, duffel bags, luggage, and the like.
- compartment refers to a physical section of a bag, having one or more surfaces that are formed, at least part, by the bag's exterior surface 112 and, in some cases, by an interior surface 114 .
- the compartment has an interior void or space that makes up at least a portion of the bag's interior 115 . Bags disclosed herein may have multiple compartments; some surfaces of these multiple compartments will make up interior surfaces 114 , dividing the bag interior such that there are multiple voids or spaces inside the bag.
- the present disclosure describes a human portable storage container, referred herein as a bag 100 with electronic assist and a method of use thereof.
- a bag 100 with electronic assist and a method of use thereof One aspect of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1A , bag 100 a having an exterior surface 112 and an assisted opening 101 a which, together, form an interior 115 .
- the assisted opening 101 a enables automated opening and closing of bag 100 a .
- Assisted opening 101 a has two states, an open state and a closed state, such that the interior 115 is accessible when the assisted opening 101 a is in its open state, and not accessible when in its closed state.
- the term “accessible” refers to the ability to access the interior from outside of the bag 100 without having to substantially move or manipulate the bag.
- the assisted opening 101 a in FIG. 1A has an actuator 103 connected to a car 102 .
- the car 102 is in turn connected to at least a movable surface 104 a .
- a second surface 104 b is typically adjacent to surface 104 a , such that no opening exists when the assisted opening 101 a is in its closed state.
- Actuator 103 causes car 102 to move and results in the movement of surface 104 a away from surface 104 b to create an opening to the interior 115 .
- assisted bag 100 b has a strap 107 attached to bag 100 b at two ends: a first end 108 and a second end 109 .
- One end of strap 107 being connected to a strap actuator 110 .
- second end 109 is connected to strap actuator 110 .
- the strap actuator 110 is preferably located within the bag's interior, and the strap 107 enters bag 100 b through an opening 111 . Strap actuator 110 enables the adjustment of the strap 107 in response to a cue or other activation by a user, enabling a proper fit of the strap 107 without the need for manual strap manipulation.
- Bag 100 has an exterior surface 112 that forms the physical bag and encloses an interior 115 .
- the assisted opening 101 and its surfaces 104 a and 104 b complete the exterior surface of the bag to present a bag with no physical openings when assisted opening 101 is closed.
- Bag 100 are further subdivided into one or more compartments 113 , which are formed with the exterior surface 112 and, when more than one compartment 113 is present, interior surfaces 114 .
- Each surface may comprise one or more materials or pieces. If a surface comprises more than one piece, the pieces will most often be connected together, by, for example, stitching. Conversely, a single material or piece may make up more than one surface.
- Bag 100 has an interior 115 formed by the exterior surface 112 , in which a user can place items to be stored in bag 100 . Other elements may be located within the interior 115 , for example the strap actuator 110 .
- bag 100 a comprises two compartments 113 , a first compartment and a second compartment; the two compartments being divided by an interior surface 114 , each compartment having an interior.
- assisted opening 101 provides at least one mechanism to open and close the bag 100 to allow for access to the interior 115 , referred herein as the assisted opening 101 .
- assisted opening 101 has a car 102 connected to an actuator 103 and at least one surface 104 .
- assisted opening 101 a includes an actuator 103 connected to a lever car 102 such that as actuator 103 activates, car 102 moves away from a vertical orientation and into an angled orientation, angled away from bag face S 1 , car end 116 is fixed in space, and car end 118 moves up through slot 117 , causing car 102 to articulate out and away from bag face S 1 .
- Car end 118 is attached, typically through slot 117 , to surface ′a (i.e., typically the top portion of slot 117 is sewn to surface 104 a ) and causes surface 104 a to move away from surface 104 b after activation of the actuator 103 , creating an opening to interior 115 .
- Slot 117 is typically also attached to slot 131 and point 132 .
- car 102 has two or more arms, with a subset of arms attaching to surface 104 a and a subset of arms attaching to surface 104 b such that when adjusted by actuator 103 , surfaces 104 a and 104 b are each moved away from the other, creating an opening.
- FIG. 1C A second embodiment is shown in FIG. 1C with assisted opening 101 b having a car 102 b connected to an actuator 103 that engages and disengages surfaces 104 a and 104 b .
- surfaces 104 a and 104 b have fabric tape securing teeth of a zipper, as known in the art. See, e.g., U.S. Patent Publication 2008/0289156 and 2018/0360167, and U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,293,434, 8,870,624, and 9,089,189.
- Car 102 b is a modified zipper slider and pull; and car 102 b is connected to an electric motor actuator 103 by a stiff pull lever 105 .
- the actuator 103 enables car 102 b to reversibly bring surfaces 104 a and 104 b together and apart, in this embodiment, by locking the zipper teeth from each surface together or apart.
- the assisted opening 101 has a mechanism to initiate opening and closure of the assisted opening 101 , referred herein as the activation mechanism 106 , connected to either the actuator 103 or a controller 122 , and described in more detail elsewhere herein.
- surface 104 a has two sets of rollers set in two parallel tracks, a pulley car 102 is attached to surface 104 a and an actuator 103 , which moves pulley car 102 parallel to the tracks, moving surface 104 a away from surface 104 b , creating an opening.
- surface 104 a is foldable, or otherwise pliable for storage while in its open state.
- the pulley car 102 may be indirectly connected to the actuator 103 by a cable or other connection. It is within the scope of the present disclosure for some embodiments to have additional assisted openings for additional compartments 113 .
- a bag 100 with a second, or more, assisted openings 101 will be connected to dedicated actuators. However, some less preferred embodiments, may have two or more assisted openings connected to a single actuator 103 .
- Actuator 103 The present disclosure provides for a solution to provide motive force, referred herein as the actuator 103 .
- Actuator 103 moves or otherwise adjusts car 102 and therefore the assisted opening 101 .
- Actuator 103 enables physical movement by converting energy into a mechanical force.
- the actuator 103 may be any suitable solution as known in the art.
- the actuator 103 is a small, electronic servo motor.
- the actuator 103 is a worm gear actuator.
- the actuator 103 is located in the interior of bag 100 . In some embodiments, actuator 103 in located within the interior 115 .
- actuator 103 is located within an electronics compartment 119 , which typically has a significantly smaller volume than the other element's interior volumes, and contains other electronics components, including an interconnected power source 120 , charger 121 , and controller 122 . In still other embodiments the actuator 103 is located on the bag's exterior surface.
- the activation mechanism 106 of the present disclosure provides for a mechanism to initiate or otherwise activate the assisted opening 101 .
- the activation mechanism 106 responds to a cue from a user to activate the assisted opening 101 .
- the activation mechanism 106 is typically connected to either the actuator 103 , the controller 122 or both.
- the activation mechanism 106 may be any suitable means as known in the art and may vary depending on the embodiment.
- activation mechanism 106 is a button on the exterior surface of bag 100 , as illustrated in FIG. 1C . In this illustration, the activation mechanism 106 is connected to controller 122 (solid black line) and the actuator 103 (dashed line).
- activation mechanism 106 is a switch, a pull cord switch, or a knob. In embodiments with a controller 122 , activation mechanism 106 is most often connected to the controller 122 .
- activation mechanism 106 is further connected to the controller 122 a sensor 125 . Together the sensor 125 and activation mechanism 106 activate the assisted opening 101 by responding to a user cue (i.e., user supplied signal).
- a user cue i.e., user supplied signal.
- User provided cues and signals are discussed in more detail in the Method of Use section below herein.
- the present disclosure provides for at least one assisted strap 107 such that a user may comfortably wear bag 100 b without needing to adjust the one or more straps.
- Many embodiments may have more than one assisted strap 107 , one such bag 100 b comprising two straps is illustrated in FIG. 1B .
- straps 107 will be initially described herein in the singular.
- Strap 107 attaches to bag 100 at one or more ends.
- strap 107 b attaches at only end 108 b to strap actuator 110 (located in the bag's interior and not pictured in FIG. 1C ), while end 109 b is not attached to bag 100 , instead is attached to handle 133 .
- Strap 107 may have one or more sections. As illustrated in FIG. 1B , strap 107 has sections 123 and 124 . Each section typically attaches to an object, for example, bag 100 , a strap actuator 110 , or a handle 133 . It is within the scope of the present disclosure for both ends of strap 107 or both sections 123 and 124 to attach to different strap actuators 110 . In one embodiment, section 123 is attached to bag 100 b at its first end 108 . Section 123 is preferably padded and transfers the bag's weight to the user. Section 124 is threaded through or attached to section 123 .
- Section 124 may either be attached to bag 100 at second end 109 , connected to a strap actuator 110 , or pass through the bag's exterior surface into the bag interior through opening 111 . In the currently preferred embodiment, only one section of strap 107 will connect to the strap actuator 110 . In embodiments having a unibody strap 107 (i.e., where strap only has one continuous section), strap 107 attaches to bag 100 b or strap actuator 110 at ends 108 and end 109 or enters bag interior at opening 111 . In embodiments where strap 107 or section 123 is attached directly to bag 100 b , strap 107 , or section 124 at end 109 , attaches to strap actuator 110 . Strap actuator 110 may be located on the bag exterior surface or within the bag's interior.
- bag 100 it is within the scope of the present invention for bag 100 to have more than one strap 107 .
- additional strap or straps 107 will be identical, and also be assisted; however, it is possible to have commonly known conventional manual straps in an embodiment with one or more assisted straps 107 or one or more assisted openings 101 .
- Strap actuator 110 provides the motive force to loosen or tighten strap 107 , often by physically moving part of strap 107 through the actuator. Strap actuator 110 may act directly on strap 107 , section 123 , or section 124 , depending on the embodiment. Strap actuator 110 may be any suitable solution as known in the art.
- the bag comprises a winding assembly connected to the bag 100 , the strap actuator 110 , and the end of the strap 107 or a section thereof. The strap actuator 110 may then provide the motive force to rotate the winding assembly, causing the strap 107 to be wound around the winding assembly. Reversing the strap actuator 110 causes the strap 107 to be unwound from the winding assembly.
- strap actuator 110 is a worm gear actuator located within compartment 113 , with section 124 being threaded through the strap actuator 110 such that the worm gear's teeth grip section 124 . Activation and subsequent rotation of worm gear strap actuator 110 translates the actuator's force to section 124 , section 124 is pulled into compartment 113 and therefore strap 107 is tightened. Reversing the worm gear strap actuator 110 results in section 124 being moved out of compartment 113 and loosening of strap 107 .
- strap actuator 110 is combined with actuator 103 .
- strap actuator 110 is a separate component from actuator 103 . It is within the scope of the present disclosure for actuator 103 and strap actuator 110 to be identical but separate.
- a sensor 125 enables a cue to be recognized by controller 122 .
- Sensor 125 is connected to controller 122 and detects a strain force (e.g., sensor 125 is a load cell-based sensor) placed on strap 107 and sends a signal to controller 122 to activate strap actuator 110 .
- a bag 100 has two straps 107 , each with a sensor 125 ; when strap sensors are pulled into proximity of each other, the sensors 125 send a signal to the controller to activate strap actuators 110 .
- a bag 100 may have a strap activator 126 connected either to the controller 122 or directly to the strap actuator 110 .
- Pressing of the strap activator 126 results in activation of strap actuator 110 , either directly, or via the interconnected controller 122 .
- placing a load onto strap 107 as sensed by a strap sensor 125 provides the cue to activate strap actuator 110 (again, either directly, or through controller 122 ) and removal of the sensed load provides the cue to activate strap actuator 110 in the reverse direction.
- Bag 100 b having a load-based sensor 125 , located either on the strap 107 or bag face S 1 , is presented presently.
- Bag 100 b is resting unworn, with strap 107 in a tight, storage state.
- a user picks up bag 100 b by strap 107 .
- Strap sensor 125 detects the applied force of the user picking up bag 100 b via strap 107 and activates the strap actuator 110 to loosen strap 107 .
- the user places bag 100 b onto their back, with the bag's weight resting on the user's body.
- Sensor 125 detects the transferred load and activates strap actuator 110 to tighten strap 107 , placing bag 100 b in a secure state for use and user movement.
- Bag 100 b may be removed by the user lifting the bag's weight off the user's body. Removal of the load from strap 107 is detected by strap sensor 125 , and strap sensor 125 activates strap actuator 110 to loosen strap 107 .
- bag 100 to have additional straps, either additional assisted straps 107 , or conventional straps as known in the art.
- additional straps either additional assisted straps 107 , or conventional straps as known in the art.
- Some embodiments have a conventional top strap 128 , a conventional side strap 129 .
- a conventional hip strap may also be included.
- any of these additional straps may be assisted straps 107 as described elsewhere herein.
- Controller 122 may be any suitable solution as known in the art.
- the controller 122 is a single board computer.
- Controller 122 may be connected to any and all of the actuators 103 and 110 , sensor 125 , power source 120 , charger 121 , and activation mechanism 106 .
- controller 122 acts as a portable server with a thin client to a user's mobile device.
- controller 122 accepts and saves information from the user, often by way of a connected mobile device. For example, activation preferences may be saved, e.g., type or degree of trigger for actuator 103 or strap actuator 110 activation as well as degree of tightness of strap 107 when worn.
- the controller 122 is configured to detect signals from sensor 125 and to activate actuators 103 and 110 . In embodiments with more than one strap actuator 110 attached to a single strap 107 , controller 122 typically activates both strap actuators 110 together. However, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to activate one strap actuator 110 connected to a strap 107 , and not a second strap actuator 110 connected to the same strap 107 .
- the digital controller 122 may consist of a central processing unit (cpu), random access memory (RAM), long-term memory storage, and optional analog to digital converters. In one embodiment the controller 122 comprises a Raspberry Pi computer coupled to an additional analog to digital converter board and long-term memory.
- the controller consists of one or more circuit boards, which may include a microcontroller circuit board (commonly referred to as a microcontroller), one or more power management boards, and one or more distribution boards. In some embodiments, all of the circuit boards may be centralized onto one circuit board, referred to as the integrated circuit.
- a communications mechanism 130 is interconnected with controller 122 and enables a user to interface with controller 122 via a graphical user interface, preferably through a second digital device, for example a mobile phone or computer.
- communications mechanism 130 is a Bluetooth modem, but it may be any suitable solutions as known in the art, including Wi-Fi, induction wireless, infrared wireless, ZigBee, and the like.
- the present disclosure provides a power source 120 solution that provides electrical energy to certain components of the bag 100 .
- power source 120 is connected to the controller 122 , sensor 125 , and actuator 103 .
- Power source 120 may be any suitable solution as known in the art.
- power source 120 is a 12 V battery or battery pack, preferably a rechargeable battery, rechargeable by any means, including standard USB connections.
- power source 120 is a generator that produces electricity from the movement of bag 100 and user.
- Bag 100 preferably has a charging solution, referred herein as the charger 121 , which is connected to at least the power source 120 and is configured to provide electricity and re-charge power source 120 from another supply of electricity (e.g., a wall socket).
- Charger 121 may be any suitable solution as known in the art.
- charger 121 is a wireless induction charger located inside a compartment of bag 100 .
- charger 121 adheres to the Qi induction charging standard, and has a charging surface incorporated (e.g., sewn) into the exterior surface of bag 100 .
- Charger 121 then couples to an external charging pad 127 via induction charging, typically when bag 100 is resting on charging pad 127 .
- charger 121 is a conductive charger also generally known in the art, with charger 121 on the exterior surface of bag 100 ; and charger 121 and external charging pad 127 having matching metal to metal connectors to enable power transfer.
- the pad detects the bag's placement, power transfer begins to recharge power source 120 .
- the charger 121 is a wired connection and plugs into a power supply; for example, a wall socket.
- the above electronic components are in a separate electronics compartment 119 , designed specifically to hold these components and separate them from the main interior 115 .
- interior 115 has a flat bottom interior surface 114 and underneath is an electronics compartment 119 with a slopped bottom formed by a portion of the exterior surface 112 .
- Electronics compartment then holds the actuators 103 and 110 , controller 122 , power source 120 and charger 121 . Opening 111 then on an exterior surface, typically on bag face S 2 , providing access to strap actuator 110 for strap 107 .
- the present disclosure provides for one or more sensors 125 to detect a cue (e.g., a force) from a user, such that the cue may be used to activate the assistance of bag 100 .
- a sensor 125 may be provided to determine when to automatically loosen or tighten strap 107 .
- a sensor 125 may be provided to determine when to automatically open or close opening 101 .
- Embodiments of the present disclosure may have more than one sensor; for example, a first sensor 125 a is connected to controller 122 by means of a connection (e.g., a wire) 134 , and are configured to detect a cue to open or close opening 101 and a second sensor 125 b is also connected to controller 122 and configured to detect a cue (typically a different cue) to tighten or loosen strap 107 .
- a first sensor 125 a is connected to controller 122 by means of a connection (e.g., a wire) 134 , and are configured to detect a cue to open or close opening 101 and a second sensor 125 b is also connected to controller 122 and configured to detect a cue (typically a different cue) to tighten or loosen strap 107 .
- a connection e.g., a wire
- a second sensor 125 b is also connected to controller 122 and configured to detect a cue (typically a different cue)
- Sensor 125 may be any suitable solution as known in the art.
- each sensor may be a different type of sensor (e.g., one strain gauge, one tension sensor, and one load-cell).
- the sensor 125 is a strain gauge connected to the controller [#] by means of a connection 134 and a Wheatstone bridge circuit 135 .
- the sensors 125 may be placed on or inside bag 100 at any suitable location.
- a sensor 125 is located at strap end 108 and detects shoulder pressure when bag 100 is worn on a user's back and shoulders; thereby transferring a load from bag to user.
- a sensor 125 is a pressure pad having a number of piezoresistive elements that detect when a force is applied to the pad. Pressure pad sensors 125 may be used in assisted strap 107 as well as assisted openings 101 to register user cues for activation of either mechanism. In some embodiments, sensor 125 may be a magnet and hall-effect sensor, in others a reed-switch, in still others a limit-switch.
- Example 1 Assisted Opening Bag 100 a
- Bag 100 a having an assisted opening 101 and an activation mechanism 106 is presented presently.
- Bag 100 a as illustrated in FIGS. 1A, and 2A-2C comprises exterior surfaces, two sides, a bag face S 1 configured to be proximate to a user's back when the bag is worn and a bag face S 2 configured to be facing away from the user when the bag is worn.
- the bag 100 a also has two straps on bag face S 1 , a top strap 128 , an assisted opening 101 having surface 104 a and surface 104 b , an actuator 103 and an activation mechanism 106 connected to the actuator.
- Example 2 Assisted Strap Bag 100 b
- Bag 100 b with two assisted straps 107 is illustrated in at least FIGS. 1B and 4A-4B .
- Bag 100 b has two straps, each strap 107 having a top section 123 and a bottom section 124 .
- Each strap top section 123 is attached at a first end 108 to bag 100 b and each strap bottom section 124 connects to a strap reel actuator and worm gear motor 110 which in turn is connected to a and motor controller 146 .
- Each strap is associated with two sensors 125 , for a total of 4 sensors on bag 100 b at each first end 108 (only two of which are visible in FIG. 4A ).
- Each sensor 125 is connected to an chicken controller 144 by means of a Wheatstone bridge circuit 135 wire path connection 134 , and amplifier 143 (e.g., a load cell amplifier HX711, commercially available from SparkFun).
- the power source 120 is connected to the motor controller 146 and the charger 121 .
- the encoder 145 enables the chicken controller 144 to know what position the motor 110 and therefore determine the state of the strap (e.g., length).
- bag 100 b Before use, bag 100 b is in a storage mode, with both straps 107 fully constricted (i.e., tightened) to face S 1 of bag 100 b .
- This storage mode further enables bag 100 b to have no exposed or dangling straps that may present a hazard or inconvenience when not being used.
- a user may wish to place bag 100 b on a charging pad 127 to recharge its power source 120 .
- a user may provide a cue to remove bag 100 b from storage mode, for example, by squeezing both straps towards each other. This action may be registered by two sensors, one on each strap 107 and the interconnected controller 122 activates both strap actuators 110 to loosen both straps.
- Another example user cue includes tapping a pressure pad sensor 125 , which causes the interconnected controller 122 to activate the two strap actuators.
- a third example is a user picking up bag 100 b by a strap 107 , the strain, load, or tension placed on the strap by the act of picking the bag off the surface it was previously resting on, as measured by one or more sensors 125 , provides the cue to activate the actuators.
- bag 100 b may have a top strap (i.e., a handle) 128 and picking bag 100 b up by this top strap 128 does not activate strap actuators 110 , enabling the bag to be moved without activating the assisted straps. Actuators adjust the straps, moving the excess strap 107 spooled inside compartment 113 out through opening 111 and available for easily donning the bag 100 b.
- the cue may be the same cue given to take bag 100 b out of storage mode or may be a different cue.
- the activation cue is the repeated, squeezing of both straps 107 towards each other.
- the cue is a button connected to the controller 122 .
- the user slides one strap 107 off of their body, the sensor 125 in that doffed strap registers the removal of tension, while the remaining donned (i.e., worn) strap 107 and its associated sensor 125 registers the presence of tension; controller 122 may be programmed to register the removal of a single strap as the removal cue.
- controller 122 determines that sensors 125 have detected the proper cue and activates strap actuators 110 to loosen straps 107 , placing the bag in removal mode.
- the loosened straps may be easily taken off the user's body.
- bag 100 b may automatically re-enter one of storage mode or wear mode after a period of time in removal mode.
- a cue may be required to enter a new mode.
- the transition between removal mode and wearing or storage modes are typically programmable by a user, often by a mobile device linked to controller 122 (e.g., by a smart phone app).
- the activation cues may be programmable.
- the removal cue may be the removal of tension or pressure from sensors 125 while bag 100 b is in wear mode.
- the time period for this removal cue may be set by the user, typically in seconds. For example, a user may wish to run while wearing bag 100 b , causing the bag to move off the user's body during running. Setting a removal cue time longer than a typical running stride prevents the controller 122 from triggering the removal cue during running.
- a running mode may be programmable by the user, with an additional cue (i.e., pressing a button or the cadence of on-off tension from sensor 125 experienced while running) that has a different strap 107 tightness programmed (i.e., tighter than normal wear mode).
- a bag 100 may have both an assisted opening 101 and an assisted strap 107 with an associated load sensor 125 .
- an interconnected controller 122 may be programmed to register this load and to activate actuator 103 to automatically close opening 101 .
- the controller 122 may be programmed to simultaneously place the bag 100 into donning mode, automatically extending the one or more straps 107 for a user to put the bag 100 onto their person (e.g., back).
Abstract
A bag with automated assistance features having, in one embodiment, an exterior surface, an actuator, and an automatic assisted opening connected to the actuator, enabling an electrically assisted opening of the bag. In other embodiments, the bag has an exterior surface, an actuator, and an automatic strap connected to the actuator, allowing the strap to automatically loosen and constrict, enabling a user to easily don and doff the bag without the need for manual strap adjustment. In many embodiments the bag further has an interconnected sensor and controller, the sensor being able to detect a user-imitated cue and, along with the controller, automatically activate actuator to adjust the strap or opening.
Description
- This application claims benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/169,786 filed Apr. 1, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- This application relates to electrically-assisted flexible storage containers. More specifically, this invention relates to bags with motorized assist mechanisms. In some embodiments the invention relates to bags with automatic motorized openings, with some embodiments of the invention having automatic motorized straps or other user interaction mechanism.
- Typical bags and other human portable and flexible storage containers (e.g., backpacks), referred generically as bags, is that they contain an opening for access to the bag's interior when open and containment of the bag's contents when closed. Another common feature is a strap for portability. The opening is typically closed by a zipper, one or more buckles, or other fastener mechanism on a strap (e.g., a typical messenger bags). These mechanisms are manual and must be physically manipulated by a user.
- The strap on a human portable bag may be adjustable for better function. Commonly known backpacks and other bags have a strap made up of two separate pieces. Typically, a first piece is padded that bears the weight of the bag and transfers it to the user. A second piece is threaded through the first piece such that the second piece's length is adjustable. One end of each the first and second pieces are permanently attached to the bag; each piece being attached to the bag at opposite ends. Straps on typical bags are manually adjusted. Manual adjustment of the strap and closure mechanism increase the time and effort needed to operate a bag, and for some disabled individuals makes adjustment difficult of even potentially impossible.
- A desirable solution would have a bag with assisted and automatic adjustment of at least one of the opening and the strap. An assisted opening could include a bag with a button or other mechanism easily activatable by a user that would cause the bag to automatically open or close the opening. An assisted strap could include a bag with one or more straps that automatically loosen or tighten upon activation of a button or another user-initiated cue.
- This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
- Herein is described a disclosure providing an assisted human portable bag. In some embodiments, the assisted bag has an exterior surface enclosing an interior, an assisted opening that automatically opens and closes upon an action command by a user, and an actuator connected to the assisted opening. In other embodiments, the assisted bag has at least one assisted strap that automatically loosens and tightens upon an action commended by a user. In still other embodiments have both an assisted opening and at least one assisted strap.
- One object of the present disclosure is a bag comprising an exterior surface enclosing an interior, an actuator, and an assisted opening. The assisted opening comprising a first surface, a second surface, and a car; wherein the first and second surfaces together form at least part of the exterior surface; and wherein the actuator is configured to adjust the car to create an opening between the first and the second surfaces. In one case, the actuator is located within the interior. In one case, the first surface is approximately parallel to the second surface. In one case, the bag further comprises an activation mechanism that is connected to the actuator; the activation mechanism being configured to reversibly activate the actuator. In one case, the car reversibly adjusts the first surface away from the second surface. In one of these cases, the first surface is configured to fold upon itself as the car adjusts the first surface. In some cases, the car physically moves the first surface away from the second surface.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure is method of using a bag having the steps of (a) providing a bag comprising an exterior surface, an actuator, an assisted opening with a first and a second surface and a car; (b) activating the actuator; (c) creating an opening between the first and the second surface by adjusting the first surface with the actuator and the car. In some of these methods, step (c) also adjusts the second surface. In some methods, the bag further comprises an activation mechanism connected to the actuator and the method further has the step of (d) activating the activation mechanism. In some of these methods, step (d) occurs before step (b). Some methods have the steps of (e) reversing the actuator; and (f) eliminating the opening by adjusting the first surface with the actuator and the car. In some of these methods, step (f) also adjusts the second surface.
- A third aspect of the present disclosure is a bag comprising an exterior surface enclosing an interior, an actuator, and a strap comprising a first end; wherein the first end is connected to the actuator and the actuator is configured to adjust the strap. In some cases, the strap comprises a second end connected to the exterior surface; and where the actuator is configured to adjust the first end. In some cases, the strap is configured to feed through the actuator. In some cases, the exterior surface has an opening, the actuator is located within the interior, and the strap first end passes through the opening. In some cases, the bag also has a controller that is connected to the actuator. In some of these cases, the controller is located in the interior. In some other cases the bag further has compartment, and the controller and actuator are located within that compartment. In some cases, the bag also has a sensor connected to the controller and the sensor is configured to produce sensor information relating to a force placed onto the sensor. In some of these cases the force placed on the sensor is a tension or load placed directly on the strap and sensed by the sensor. In some of these cases, the controller is further configured to activate the actuator in response to said sensor information.
- A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a method of adjusting a bag, comprising the steps of (a) providing a bag, the bag having an exterior surface and an interior, an actuator, and a strap; the strap having a first end connected to the actuator and a second end; and (b) adjusting the strap through the actuator in a first direction. In some methods, the second end is connected to the exterior surface. In other methods, the second end is connected to a second actuator. Some methods further have the step of (c) adjusting the strap through the actuator in a second, reverse direction. In some of these methods, the bag also has a sensor and a controller, the sensor is configured to produce sensor information relating to a load placed on the sensor and the sensor is informationally connected to the controller; and the controller is connected to the actuator and is configured to activate the controller in response to the sensor information. Some of these methods also have the steps of (d) detecting, with the sensor, a load; (e) producing and sending sensor information relating to the sensed load to the controller; (f) determining, with the controller, a user-initiated cue based on the sensor information; and (g) instructing, by the controller, the actuator to activate; and wherein steps (d) through (g) occur before step (b). Some of the above methods also have the steps of (h) detecting, with the sensor and the controller, a second user-initiated cue, (i) instructing, by the controller, the actuator to activate, and (j) adjusting the strap through the actuator in a second direction; and wherein steps (h) through (i) occur before step (j).
- In what follows, preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1A illustrates an assisted bag according to an embodiment having an assisted closure mechanism. -
FIGS. 1B and 1C illustrate two assisted bags according to two embodiments having assisted straps. -
FIGS. 2A-2C are three views of three positions of the car according to the embodiment shown inFIG. 1A . -
FIGS. 3A and 3B are two side views of two embodiments according to the present disclosure. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B are two views of the electronic compartment and interconnected components according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. - The term “bag” as used herein refers generically to all human portable storage containers. The term bag may encompass, but is not limited to, two-strap backpacks, one-strap messenger bags, handbags, duffel bags, luggage, and the like.
- The term “compartment” as used herein refers to a physical section of a bag, having one or more surfaces that are formed, at least part, by the bag's
exterior surface 112 and, in some cases, by aninterior surface 114. The compartment has an interior void or space that makes up at least a portion of the bag's interior 115. Bags disclosed herein may have multiple compartments; some surfaces of these multiple compartments will make upinterior surfaces 114, dividing the bag interior such that there are multiple voids or spaces inside the bag. - The present disclosure describes a human portable storage container, referred herein as a bag 100 with electronic assist and a method of use thereof. One aspect of the present invention is illustrated in
FIG. 1A ,bag 100 a having anexterior surface 112 and an assistedopening 101 a which, together, form an interior 115. The assistedopening 101 a enables automated opening and closing ofbag 100 a. Assisted opening 101 a has two states, an open state and a closed state, such that the interior 115 is accessible when the assistedopening 101 a is in its open state, and not accessible when in its closed state. As used herein, the term “accessible” refers to the ability to access the interior from outside of the bag 100 without having to substantially move or manipulate the bag. - The assisted
opening 101 a inFIG. 1A has anactuator 103 connected to acar 102. Thecar 102 is in turn connected to at least amovable surface 104 a. Asecond surface 104 b is typically adjacent to surface 104 a, such that no opening exists when the assistedopening 101 a is in its closed state.Actuator 103 causescar 102 to move and results in the movement ofsurface 104 a away fromsurface 104 b to create an opening to theinterior 115. - Another aspect of the present disclosure is illustrated in
FIG. 1B , assistedbag 100 b has astrap 107 attached tobag 100 b at two ends: afirst end 108 and asecond end 109. One end ofstrap 107 being connected to astrap actuator 110. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1B ,second end 109 is connected tostrap actuator 110. - The
strap actuator 110 is preferably located within the bag's interior, and thestrap 107 entersbag 100 b through anopening 111.Strap actuator 110 enables the adjustment of thestrap 107 in response to a cue or other activation by a user, enabling a proper fit of thestrap 107 without the need for manual strap manipulation. -
Exterior surface 112 - Bag 100 has an
exterior surface 112 that forms the physical bag and encloses an interior 115. In most embodiments, the assisted opening 101 and itssurfaces more compartments 113, which are formed with theexterior surface 112 and, when more than onecompartment 113 is present, interior surfaces 114. - Each surface may comprise one or more materials or pieces. If a surface comprises more than one piece, the pieces will most often be connected together, by, for example, stitching. Conversely, a single material or piece may make up more than one surface. Bag 100 has an interior 115 formed by the
exterior surface 112, in which a user can place items to be stored in bag 100. Other elements may be located within the interior 115, for example thestrap actuator 110. In one embodiment,bag 100 a comprises twocompartments 113, a first compartment and a second compartment; the two compartments being divided by aninterior surface 114, each compartment having an interior. - The present disclosure provides at least one mechanism to open and close the bag 100 to allow for access to the interior 115, referred herein as the assisted opening 101. Several embodiments utilizing an assisted opening 101 are demonstrated herein; typically, assisted opening 101 has a
car 102 connected to anactuator 103 and at least one surface 104. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1A , assisted opening 101 a includes anactuator 103 connected to alever car 102 such that asactuator 103 activates,car 102 moves away from a vertical orientation and into an angled orientation, angled away from bag face S1,car end 116 is fixed in space, and car end 118 moves up throughslot 117, causingcar 102 to articulate out and away from bag face S1.Car end 118 is attached, typically throughslot 117, to surface ′a (i.e., typically the top portion ofslot 117 is sewn to surface 104 a) and causes surface 104 a to move away fromsurface 104 b after activation of theactuator 103, creating an opening tointerior 115.Slot 117 is typically also attached to slot 131 andpoint 132. In someembodiments car 102 has two or more arms, with a subset of arms attaching to surface 104 a and a subset of arms attaching to surface 104 b such that when adjusted byactuator 103,surfaces - A second embodiment is shown in
FIG. 1C with assistedopening 101 b having acar 102 b connected to anactuator 103 that engages and disengagessurfaces Car 102 b is a modified zipper slider and pull; andcar 102 b is connected to anelectric motor actuator 103 by astiff pull lever 105. Theactuator 103 enablescar 102 b to reversibly bringsurfaces activation mechanism 106, connected to either theactuator 103 or acontroller 122, and described in more detail elsewhere herein. - In another embodiment,
surface 104 a has two sets of rollers set in two parallel tracks, apulley car 102 is attached to surface 104 a and anactuator 103, which movespulley car 102 parallel to the tracks, movingsurface 104 a away fromsurface 104 b, creating an opening. Preferably,surface 104 a is foldable, or otherwise pliable for storage while in its open state. Thepulley car 102 may be indirectly connected to theactuator 103 by a cable or other connection. It is within the scope of the present disclosure for some embodiments to have additional assisted openings foradditional compartments 113. Typically, a bag 100 with a second, or more, assisted openings 101, will be connected to dedicated actuators. However, some less preferred embodiments, may have two or more assisted openings connected to asingle actuator 103. -
Actuator 103. The present disclosure provides for a solution to provide motive force, referred herein as theactuator 103.Actuator 103 moves or otherwise adjustscar 102 and therefore the assisted opening 101.Actuator 103 enables physical movement by converting energy into a mechanical force. Theactuator 103 may be any suitable solution as known in the art. In the currently preferred embodiment, theactuator 103 is a small, electronic servo motor. In another embodiment, theactuator 103 is a worm gear actuator. In the currently preferred embodiment, theactuator 103 is located in the interior of bag 100. In some embodiments,actuator 103 in located within theinterior 115. In other embodiments,actuator 103 is located within anelectronics compartment 119, which typically has a significantly smaller volume than the other element's interior volumes, and contains other electronics components, including aninterconnected power source 120,charger 121, andcontroller 122. In still other embodiments theactuator 103 is located on the bag's exterior surface. -
Activation Mechanism 106. Theactivation mechanism 106 of the present disclosure provides for a mechanism to initiate or otherwise activate the assisted opening 101. Theactivation mechanism 106 responds to a cue from a user to activate the assisted opening 101. Theactivation mechanism 106 is typically connected to either theactuator 103, thecontroller 122 or both. Theactivation mechanism 106 may be any suitable means as known in the art and may vary depending on the embodiment. In one preferred embodiment,activation mechanism 106 is a button on the exterior surface of bag 100, as illustrated inFIG. 1C . In this illustration, theactivation mechanism 106 is connected to controller 122 (solid black line) and the actuator 103 (dashed line). In additional embodiments,activation mechanism 106 is a switch, a pull cord switch, or a knob. In embodiments with acontroller 122,activation mechanism 106 is most often connected to thecontroller 122. - In still other embodiments,
activation mechanism 106 is further connected to the controller 122 asensor 125. Together thesensor 125 andactivation mechanism 106 activate the assisted opening 101 by responding to a user cue (i.e., user supplied signal). User provided cues and signals are discussed in more detail in the Method of Use section below herein. - The present disclosure provides for at least one assisted
strap 107 such that a user may comfortably wearbag 100 b without needing to adjust the one or more straps. Many embodiments may have more than one assistedstrap 107, onesuch bag 100 b comprising two straps is illustrated inFIG. 1B . However, for simplicity, straps 107 will be initially described herein in the singular. -
Strap 107 attaches to bag 100 at one or more ends. In an embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1C ,strap 107 b attaches atonly end 108 b to strap actuator 110 (located in the bag's interior and not pictured inFIG. 1C ), whileend 109 b is not attached to bag 100, instead is attached to handle 133. -
Strap 107 may have one or more sections. As illustrated inFIG. 1B ,strap 107 hassections strap actuator 110, or ahandle 133. It is within the scope of the present disclosure for both ends ofstrap 107 or bothsections different strap actuators 110. In one embodiment,section 123 is attached tobag 100 b at itsfirst end 108.Section 123 is preferably padded and transfers the bag's weight to the user.Section 124 is threaded through or attached tosection 123.Section 124 may either be attached to bag 100 atsecond end 109, connected to astrap actuator 110, or pass through the bag's exterior surface into the bag interior throughopening 111. In the currently preferred embodiment, only one section ofstrap 107 will connect to thestrap actuator 110. In embodiments having a unibody strap 107 (i.e., where strap only has one continuous section),strap 107 attaches to bag 100 b orstrap actuator 110 at ends 108 and end 109 or enters bag interior atopening 111. In embodiments wherestrap 107 orsection 123 is attached directly tobag 100 b,strap 107, orsection 124 atend 109, attaches to strapactuator 110.Strap actuator 110 may be located on the bag exterior surface or within the bag's interior. - It is within the scope of the present invention for bag 100 to have more than one
strap 107. Typically, additional strap or straps 107 will be identical, and also be assisted; however, it is possible to have commonly known conventional manual straps in an embodiment with one or moreassisted straps 107 or one or more assisted openings 101. -
Strap actuator 110 provides the motive force to loosen or tightenstrap 107, often by physically moving part ofstrap 107 through the actuator.Strap actuator 110 may act directly onstrap 107,section 123, orsection 124, depending on the embodiment.Strap actuator 110 may be any suitable solution as known in the art. In one embodiment, the bag comprises a winding assembly connected to the bag 100, thestrap actuator 110, and the end of thestrap 107 or a section thereof. Thestrap actuator 110 may then provide the motive force to rotate the winding assembly, causing thestrap 107 to be wound around the winding assembly. Reversing thestrap actuator 110 causes thestrap 107 to be unwound from the winding assembly. - In another embodiment,
strap actuator 110 is a worm gear actuator located withincompartment 113, withsection 124 being threaded through thestrap actuator 110 such that the worm gear'steeth grip section 124. Activation and subsequent rotation of wormgear strap actuator 110 translates the actuator's force tosection 124,section 124 is pulled intocompartment 113 and therefore strap 107 is tightened. Reversing the wormgear strap actuator 110 results insection 124 being moved out ofcompartment 113 and loosening ofstrap 107. - In some embodiments,
strap actuator 110 is combined withactuator 103. In the currently preferredembodiment strap actuator 110 is a separate component fromactuator 103. It is within the scope of the present disclosure foractuator 103 andstrap actuator 110 to be identical but separate. - It is within the scope of the present disclosure to activate
strap actuator 110 by one of several solutions. In one embodiment, asensor 125 enables a cue to be recognized bycontroller 122.Sensor 125 is connected tocontroller 122 and detects a strain force (e.g.,sensor 125 is a load cell-based sensor) placed onstrap 107 and sends a signal tocontroller 122 to activatestrap actuator 110. In another embodiment, a bag 100 has twostraps 107, each with asensor 125; when strap sensors are pulled into proximity of each other, thesensors 125 send a signal to the controller to activatestrap actuators 110. In another embodiment, a bag 100 may have astrap activator 126 connected either to thecontroller 122 or directly to thestrap actuator 110. Pressing of thestrap activator 126 results in activation ofstrap actuator 110, either directly, or via theinterconnected controller 122. In some embodiments, placing a load ontostrap 107, as sensed by astrap sensor 125 provides the cue to activate strap actuator 110 (again, either directly, or through controller 122) and removal of the sensed load provides the cue to activatestrap actuator 110 in the reverse direction. - One example method of use of assisted
strap bag 100 b having a load-basedsensor 125, located either on thestrap 107 or bag face S1, is presented presently.Bag 100 b is resting unworn, withstrap 107 in a tight, storage state. A user picks upbag 100 b bystrap 107.Strap sensor 125 detects the applied force of the user picking upbag 100 b viastrap 107 and activates thestrap actuator 110 to loosenstrap 107. The user placesbag 100 b onto their back, with the bag's weight resting on the user's body.Sensor 125 detects the transferred load and activatesstrap actuator 110 to tightenstrap 107, placingbag 100 b in a secure state for use and user movement.Bag 100 b may be removed by the user lifting the bag's weight off the user's body. Removal of the load fromstrap 107 is detected bystrap sensor 125, andstrap sensor 125 activatesstrap actuator 110 to loosenstrap 107. - It is within the scope of this invention for bag 100 to have additional straps, either additional assisted
straps 107, or conventional straps as known in the art. Some embodiments have a conventionaltop strap 128, aconventional side strap 129. A conventional hip strap may also be included. Furthermore, any of these additional straps may be assistedstraps 107 as described elsewhere herein. - The present disclosure provides for a digital controlling solution, referred herein as the
controller 122.Controller 122 may be any suitable solution as known in the art. In one embodiment thecontroller 122 is a single board computer.Controller 122 may be connected to any and all of theactuators sensor 125,power source 120,charger 121, andactivation mechanism 106. In some embodiments,controller 122 acts as a portable server with a thin client to a user's mobile device. In some embodiments,controller 122 accepts and saves information from the user, often by way of a connected mobile device. For example, activation preferences may be saved, e.g., type or degree of trigger foractuator 103 orstrap actuator 110 activation as well as degree of tightness ofstrap 107 when worn. - The
controller 122 is configured to detect signals fromsensor 125 and to activateactuators strap actuator 110 attached to asingle strap 107,controller 122 typically activates bothstrap actuators 110 together. However, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to activate onestrap actuator 110 connected to astrap 107, and not asecond strap actuator 110 connected to thesame strap 107. In some embodiments thedigital controller 122 may consist of a central processing unit (cpu), random access memory (RAM), long-term memory storage, and optional analog to digital converters. In one embodiment thecontroller 122 comprises a Raspberry Pi computer coupled to an additional analog to digital converter board and long-term memory. In many embodiments, the controller consists of one or more circuit boards, which may include a microcontroller circuit board (commonly referred to as a microcontroller), one or more power management boards, and one or more distribution boards. In some embodiments, all of the circuit boards may be centralized onto one circuit board, referred to as the integrated circuit. - In some embodiments, a communications mechanism 130 is interconnected with
controller 122 and enables a user to interface withcontroller 122 via a graphical user interface, preferably through a second digital device, for example a mobile phone or computer. In the currently preferred embodiment, communications mechanism 130 is a Bluetooth modem, but it may be any suitable solutions as known in the art, including Wi-Fi, induction wireless, infrared wireless, ZigBee, and the like. - The present disclosure provides a
power source 120 solution that provides electrical energy to certain components of the bag 100. Often,power source 120 is connected to thecontroller 122,sensor 125, andactuator 103.Power source 120 may be any suitable solution as known in the art. In the currently preferred embodiment,power source 120 is a 12 V battery or battery pack, preferably a rechargeable battery, rechargeable by any means, including standard USB connections. In other embodiments,power source 120 is a generator that produces electricity from the movement of bag 100 and user. - Bag 100 preferably has a charging solution, referred herein as the
charger 121, which is connected to at least thepower source 120 and is configured to provide electricity and re-chargepower source 120 from another supply of electricity (e.g., a wall socket).Charger 121 may be any suitable solution as known in the art. In the currently preferred embodiment,charger 121 is a wireless induction charger located inside a compartment of bag 100. In one embodiment,charger 121 adheres to the Qi induction charging standard, and has a charging surface incorporated (e.g., sewn) into the exterior surface of bag 100.Charger 121 then couples to anexternal charging pad 127 via induction charging, typically when bag 100 is resting on chargingpad 127. The Qi charging standard is known in the art and the Power Class 0 specification version 1.2.3 from February 2017 is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein. In other embodiments,charger 121 is a conductive charger also generally known in the art, withcharger 121 on the exterior surface of bag 100; andcharger 121 andexternal charging pad 127 having matching metal to metal connectors to enable power transfer. When bag 100 having aconductive charger 121 is placed on chargingpad 127, the pad detects the bag's placement, power transfer begins to rechargepower source 120. In still further embodiments, thecharger 121 is a wired connection and plugs into a power supply; for example, a wall socket. - In some embodiments, the above electronic components are in a
separate electronics compartment 119, designed specifically to hold these components and separate them from themain interior 115. In one embodiment, interior 115 has a flat bottominterior surface 114 and underneath is anelectronics compartment 119 with a slopped bottom formed by a portion of theexterior surface 112. Electronics compartment then holds theactuators controller 122,power source 120 andcharger 121. Opening 111 then on an exterior surface, typically on bag face S2, providing access tostrap actuator 110 forstrap 107. - The present disclosure provides for one or
more sensors 125 to detect a cue (e.g., a force) from a user, such that the cue may be used to activate the assistance of bag 100. In embodiments with an assistedstrap 107, asensor 125 may be provided to determine when to automatically loosen or tightenstrap 107. In embodiments with an assisted opening 101, asensor 125 may be provided to determine when to automatically open or close opening 101. Embodiments of the present disclosure may have more than one sensor; for example, afirst sensor 125 a is connected tocontroller 122 by means of a connection (e.g., a wire) 134, and are configured to detect a cue to open or close opening 101 and a second sensor 125 b is also connected tocontroller 122 and configured to detect a cue (typically a different cue) to tighten or loosenstrap 107. In addition, embodiments that have more than onestrap 107 may have more than onesensor 125. In these embodiments, there is typically onesensor 125 perstrap 107, enablingbag 100 b andcontroller 122 to detect and discern cues involving one or two straps; for example, when one vs two straps are being worn by a user. -
Sensor 125 may be any suitable solution as known in the art. In embodiments with more than onesensor 125, each sensor may be a different type of sensor (e.g., one strain gauge, one tension sensor, and one load-cell). In some embodiments, thesensor 125 is a strain gauge connected to the controller [#] by means of aconnection 134 and aWheatstone bridge circuit 135. Thesensors 125 may be placed on or inside bag 100 at any suitable location. In one embodiment, asensor 125 is located atstrap end 108 and detects shoulder pressure when bag 100 is worn on a user's back and shoulders; thereby transferring a load from bag to user. In some embodiments asensor 125 is a pressure pad having a number of piezoresistive elements that detect when a force is applied to the pad.Pressure pad sensors 125 may be used in assistedstrap 107 as well as assisted openings 101 to register user cues for activation of either mechanism. In some embodiments,sensor 125 may be a magnet and hall-effect sensor, in others a reed-switch, in still others a limit-switch. - One example of an assisted
opening bag 100 a having an assisted opening 101 and anactivation mechanism 106 is presented presently.Bag 100 a, as illustrated inFIGS. 1A, and 2A-2C comprises exterior surfaces, two sides, a bag face S1 configured to be proximate to a user's back when the bag is worn and a bag face S2 configured to be facing away from the user when the bag is worn. Thebag 100 a also has two straps on bag face S1, atop strap 128, an assisted opening 101 havingsurface 104 a andsurface 104 b, anactuator 103 and anactivation mechanism 106 connected to the actuator. - When
bag 100 a is in a closed state, surfaces 104 a and 104 b are in contact or close proximity. To place thebag 100 a into an open state, the user will pressactivation mechanism 106, activating it, which in turn activatesactuator 103.Actuator 103 causescar 102 to move away from bag face S1, pulling the attachedsurface 104 a with it, and creating an opening into theinterior 115 ofbag 100 a, placing thebag 100 a into the opened state. When the user no longer needs access to the interior 115, they again press theactivation mechanism 106, which activatesactuator 103 in the reverse direction, movingcar 102 and attachedsurface 104 a back towards bag face S1 and in contact or in close proximity to surface 104 b. This action closes and removes the opening into the interior 115, placingbag 100 a back into the closed state. - Presently, a one method of use of an embodiment of the present disclosure will be presented.
Bag 100 b with two assistedstraps 107 is illustrated in at leastFIGS. 1B and 4A-4B .Bag 100 b has two straps, eachstrap 107 having atop section 123 and abottom section 124. Eachstrap top section 123 is attached at afirst end 108 tobag 100 b and eachstrap bottom section 124 connects to a strap reel actuator andworm gear motor 110 which in turn is connected to a andmotor controller 146. Each strap is associated with twosensors 125, for a total of 4 sensors onbag 100 b at each first end 108 (only two of which are visible inFIG. 4A ). Eachsensor 125 is connected to anArduino controller 144 by means of aWheatstone bridge circuit 135wire path connection 134, and amplifier 143 (e.g., a load cell amplifier HX711, commercially available from SparkFun). TheArduino controller 144 is also connected to theworm gear motor 110 by means of anencoder 145, amotor controller 146, and apower source 120. Thepower source 120 is connected to themotor controller 146 and thecharger 121. In this embodiment, theencoder 145 enables theArduino controller 144 to know what position themotor 110 and therefore determine the state of the strap (e.g., length). - Before use,
bag 100 b is in a storage mode, with bothstraps 107 fully constricted (i.e., tightened) to face S1 ofbag 100 b. This storage mode further enablesbag 100 b to have no exposed or dangling straps that may present a hazard or inconvenience when not being used. When not in use for long periods of time, a user may wish to placebag 100 b on acharging pad 127 to recharge itspower source 120. A user may provide a cue to removebag 100 b from storage mode, for example, by squeezing both straps towards each other. This action may be registered by two sensors, one on eachstrap 107 and theinterconnected controller 122 activates bothstrap actuators 110 to loosen both straps. Another example user cue includes tapping apressure pad sensor 125, which causes theinterconnected controller 122 to activate the two strap actuators. A third example is a user picking upbag 100 b by astrap 107, the strain, load, or tension placed on the strap by the act of picking the bag off the surface it was previously resting on, as measured by one ormore sensors 125, provides the cue to activate the actuators. In this third example,bag 100 b may have a top strap (i.e., a handle) 128 and pickingbag 100 b up by thistop strap 128 does not activatestrap actuators 110, enabling the bag to be moved without activating the assisted straps. Actuators adjust the straps, moving theexcess strap 107 spooled insidecompartment 113 out throughopening 111 and available for easily donning thebag 100 b. - Once the user places
bag 100 b onto their body, most often on the user's back, the bag's weight rests on the user.Sensors 125 detect this transfer of weight to the user and theinterconnected controller 122 instructsstrap actuators 110 to constrictstraps 107, making each strap tight. Typically, the user has selected a pre-set tightness amount that they find comfortable while wearingbag 100 b and straps are constricted to this amount by thecontroller 122 activating thestrap actuators 110. Thebag 100 b is now in wear mode and the user may then wear the bag securely without any manual tightening ofstraps 107. When the user is done wearingbag 100 b, another cue is given to loosenstraps 107. The cue may be the same cue given to takebag 100 b out of storage mode or may be a different cue. In one example, the activation cue is the repeated, squeezing of bothstraps 107 towards each other. In another example, the cue is a button connected to thecontroller 122. In a third example, the user slides onestrap 107 off of their body, thesensor 125 in that doffed strap registers the removal of tension, while the remaining donned (i.e., worn)strap 107 and its associatedsensor 125 registers the presence of tension;controller 122 may be programmed to register the removal of a single strap as the removal cue. In all of these cases,controller 122 determines thatsensors 125 have detected the proper cue and activatesstrap actuators 110 to loosenstraps 107, placing the bag in removal mode. The loosened straps may be easily taken off the user's body. In some uses,bag 100 b may automatically re-enter one of storage mode or wear mode after a period of time in removal mode. In other uses, a cue may be required to enter a new mode. The transition between removal mode and wearing or storage modes are typically programmable by a user, often by a mobile device linked to controller 122 (e.g., by a smart phone app). - An additional feature of use for
bag 100 b is that the activation cues may be programmable. For example, in some embodiments, the removal cue may be the removal of tension or pressure fromsensors 125 whilebag 100 b is in wear mode. The time period for this removal cue may be set by the user, typically in seconds. For example, a user may wish to run while wearingbag 100 b, causing the bag to move off the user's body during running. Setting a removal cue time longer than a typical running stride prevents thecontroller 122 from triggering the removal cue during running. In addition, a running mode may be programmable by the user, with an additional cue (i.e., pressing a button or the cadence of on-off tension fromsensor 125 experienced while running) that has adifferent strap 107 tightness programmed (i.e., tighter than normal wear mode). - Features disclosed herein may further be combined from different embodiments. For example, a bag 100 may have both an assisted opening 101 and an assisted
strap 107 with an associatedload sensor 125. When such bag 100 is in storage mode with the opening 101 in its open state, the act of picking up bag 100 (and thereby placing a load onstrap 107 measured by a sensor 125), aninterconnected controller 122 may be programmed to register this load and to activateactuator 103 to automatically close opening 101. Furthermore, thecontroller 122 may be programmed to simultaneously place the bag 100 into donning mode, automatically extending the one ormore straps 107 for a user to put the bag 100 onto their person (e.g., back). - Although specific features of the present invention are shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only, as each feature may be combined with any or all of the other features in accordance with the invention. While there have been shown, described, and pointed out fundamental novel features of the invention as applied to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices illustrated, and in their operation, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, it is expressly intended that all combinations of those elements and/or steps that perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same way, to achieve the same results be within the scope of the invention. Substitutions of elements from one described embodiment to another are also fully intended and contemplated. It is also to be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but that they are merely conceptual in nature.
- It is the intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by the scope of the claims appended hereto. Other embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art and are within the following claims.
Claims (20)
1. A bag comprising:
an exterior surface
an assisted opening comprising:
a first and a second surface;
a car connected to said first surface; and
an interior enclosed by said exterior surface and said assisted opening;
an actuator connected to said car;
wherein said actuator is configured to adjust said car to create an opening between said first and said second surfaces.
2. The bag of claim 1 wherein said actuator is located within said interior.
3. The bag of claim 1 wherein said first surface is located approximately parallel to said second surface.
4. The bag of claim 1 further comprising an activation mechanism connected to said actuator and configured to reversibly activate said actuator.
5. The bag of claim 1 wherein said car reversibly pulls said first surface away from said second surface and wherein said first surface is configured to fold upon itself.
6. The bag of claim 1 further comprising a compartment within said interior; and wherein said actuator is disposed within said compartment.
7. A method of closing a bag, comprising the steps of:
(a) providing the bag of claim 1 ;
(b) activating said actuator; and
(c) creating an opening between said first and said second surface by adjusting said first surface, with said car.
8. The method of claim 7 wherein said bag further comprises an activation mechanism connected to said actuator; and wherein said actuator activation is performed by said activation mechanism.
9. The method of claim 7 further comprising the steps of (e) reversing said actuator; and (f) eliminating said opening by adjusting said first surface with said actuator and said car.
10. An assisted bag, comprising:
an exterior surface enclosing an interior;
an actuator; and
a strap having a first end connected to said actuator;
wherein said actuator is configured to adjust said strap.
11. The bag of claim 10 wherein said exterior surface further comprises an opening, said actuator is disposed within said interior and said strap first end passes through said opening.
12. The bag of claim 10 further comprising a controller connected to said actuator.
13. The bag of claim 12 further comprising a sensor connected to said controller and configured to produce sensor information relating to a force placed on the sensor.
14. The bag of claim 13 wherein said controller is configured to activate said actuator in response to said sensor information.
15. A method of adjusting a bag, comprising the steps of:
(a) providing the bag of claim 10 ;
(b) moving said strap past said actuator in a first direction.
16. The method of claim 15 further comprising the step of (c) moving said strap past said actuator in a second, reverse direction.
17. The method of claim 15 wherein said bag further comprises a controller and a sensor informationally connected to said controller; wherein said sensor is configured to produce sensor information relating to a force on the sensor; and wherein said controller is connected to said actuator and is configured to activate said actuator in response to said sensor information.
18. The method of claim 17 further comprising the step of (d) producing sensor information with said sensor in response to a user-initiated cue; and (e) activating said actuator with said controller in response to said sensor information; wherein steps (d) and (e) occur before step (b).
19. The method of claim 18 further comprising the steps of (f) producing additional sensor information with said sensor in response to a second user-initiated cue; (g) activating said actuator with said controller in response to said additional sensor information and (h) moving said strap through said actuator in a second, reverse direction; wherein steps (f) and (g) occur before step (h).
20. The method of claim 15 wherein said second end is connected to said exterior surface or to a second actuator.
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US17/710,916 US20220312942A1 (en) | 2021-04-01 | 2022-03-31 | Assisted storage container |
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US202163169786P | 2021-04-01 | 2021-04-01 | |
US17/710,916 US20220312942A1 (en) | 2021-04-01 | 2022-03-31 | Assisted storage container |
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US20220312942A1 true US20220312942A1 (en) | 2022-10-06 |
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