US20230172329A1

US20230172329A1 - Combination bag, mat, and flotation device

Info

Publication number: US20230172329A1
Application number: US18/074,311
Authority: US
Inventors: Geronimos Dogagis; Antonio Borges DeCastro
Original assignee: Aqua Hammock Bag LLC
Current assignee: Aqua Hammock Bag LLC
Priority date: 2021-12-03
Filing date: 2022-12-02
Publication date: 2023-06-08

Abstract

Disclosed is a system for a combination bag, mat, and flotation device. The system includes a rectangular elongated mat having an external surface, internal surface, a mat section first side and second side, and a mat section first side and second side. A pair of flotation devices are attached to the mat section first side and second side. Each flotation device has an internal air compartment, inflation nozzle, and attachment element, and when inflated, allow the mat to be used as a flotation device. A zipper is disposed on the perimeter of the mat. A first fastener in attachment proximate to the mat section first side and a second fastener in attachment proximate to the mat section second side. The first fastener and second fastener are configured to removably mate with each other. When the mat is folded so that the first fastener and second fastener are mated and the zipper is sealed, the mat forms a bag configuration.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 6,328,5390 titled “A COMBINATION BAG, MAT, AND FLOTATION DEVICE” and filed Dec. 3, 2021, and the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

Not applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to the field of travel accessories, and more specifically to the field of combination bag, mat, and flotation devices.

BACKGROUND

While engaging in outdoor activities such as swimming, camping, hiking, picnicking, beach going, sunbathing, or other outdoor activities, people tend to bring numerous accessories and equipment to be able to enjoy themselves. These accessories may include backpacks, travel, bags, tote bags, mats, towels, lounge chairs, beach chairs, floating chairs, flotation devises, sunshades, camping gear and tools, pool toys, clothing, sunscreen, etc. For example, when going to the beach, a general beachgoer could bring a backpack or beach bag, a towel or mat, an umbrella, and possibly a flotation device or toys. The problem, however, is that each of these items are burdensome to bring to the beach and one may be forgotten on any given day, thus decreasing the beachgoers enjoyment of the experience.
Transporting all of these accessories for the purpose of enhancing a person’s activity of choice can be difficult and cumbersome. This is especially true for those traveling in groups such as families with small children, since smaller children are unable to carry many of the items listed above. This creates a challenge for parents who wish to take their children to public pools or the beach. Traveling to such places can be a strenuous task due to the number of accessories one has to bring to enjoy such activities.
Small children cannot be left alone and sometimes need to be carried by the parent, so several trips to and from the car may be necessary to transfer all of the required accessories. This task can be further exacerbated by the likelihood of the parking lot and beach area being separated by hundreds of feet. These additional trips can make an already stressful task all the more tiring, this is especially true in the summer months where the warmer weather can also have an impact.
Even if a person wanted to limit the number of accessories they are transporting, they likely would be unable to do so since most of the accessories are necessary for enjoying the outdoor experiences. Minimizing the number of accessories is likely to severely harm the person’s ability to enjoy the activity. Therefore, it would be desirable to have a system for carrying these accessories in a convenient and efficient manner that decreases the number of trips required for transporting these items. Additionally, it is desirable to reduce the total number of accessories needed without losing the enhancements these accessories provide to the enjoyment of the desired activity.
As a result, there exists a need for improvements over the prior art and more particularly for a combination bag, mat, and flotation device for the purpose of enhancing the outdoor activity experience.

SUMMARY

A system for a combination bag, mat, and flotation device is disclosed. This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of disclosed concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description including the drawings provided. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this Summary intended to be used to limit the claimed subject matter’s scope.
In one embodiment, a combination bag, mat, and flotation device is disclosed. The system includes a rectangular elongated mat having an external surface, internal surface, a mat section first side and second side, and a mat section first side and second side. A pair of flotation devices are attached to the mat section first side and second side. Each flotation device has an internal air compartment, inflation nozzle, and attachment element, and when inflated, allow the mat to be used as a flotation device. A zipper is disposed on the perimeter of the mat. A first fastener in attachment proximate to the mat section first side and a second fastener in attachment proximate to the mat section second side. The first fastener and second fastener are configured to removably mate with each other. When the first fastener and second fastener are mated, the mat forms a bag configuration.
Additional aspects of the disclosed embodiment will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosed embodiments. The aspects of the disclosed embodiments will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosed embodiments, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. The embodiments illustrated herein are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown, wherein:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a combination bag, mat, and flotation device in a mat configuration, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 1B is an illustration of stakes used for the device in the mat configuration, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device configuration, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 2B is a detailed view of a quick-release air valve shown in FIG. 2A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 2C is a detailed view of the air intake valve shown in FIG. 2A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the bag configuration, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3B is a detailed side view of zipper shown in FIG. 3A that is used to convert the device from the mat configuration to the bag configuration and visa-vera, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3C is a detailed side view of snap rivet shown in FIG. 3A that is used to convert the device from the mat configuration to the bag configuration and visa-vera, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the bag configuration having an attached handle, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 4B is a detailed view of a handle of the device in the bag configuration as shown in FIG. 4A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 4C is a detailed view of a carabiner clip used to connect the handle to the device in the bag configuration, as shown in FIG. 4A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a pocket liner which may be inserted into the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the bag configuration, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 5B is a detailed side view of the pocket liner shown in FIG. 5A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 5C, is a detailed view of a closing mechanism that may be used to close the pocket liner of FIG. 5A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a second perspective view of the pocket liner being inserted into an internal storage compartment of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the bag configuration, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device configuration and in attachment with various accessories, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7B is a detailed view of the connection point shown in FIG. 7A for connecting a sun-shade attachment to the device, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7C is a detailed view of a connecting element shown in FIG. 7A, such as a carabiner clip, used to connect an attachment to the device, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7D is a detailed view of the support frame for the sunshade attachment shown in FIG. 7A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device configuration and in attachment with at least a second the combination bag, mat, and flotation device, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device chair configuration connected to a second device in the flotation device chair configuration, according to a first example embodiment;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device chair configuration connected to a second device in the flotation device chair configuration, according to a second example embodiment;

FIG. 9C is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device chair configuration connected to a second device in the flotation device chair configuration, according to a third example embodiment; and

FIG. 9D is a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device chair configuration connected to a plurality of second devices each in the flotation device chair configuration, according to a fourth example embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While disclosed embodiments may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding additional stages or components to the disclosed methods and devices. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosed embodiments. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosed embodiments is defined by the appended claims.
The disclosed embodiments improve upon the problems with the prior art by providing a system for combining a bag, mat, and flotation device for the purpose of enhancing a user’s experience with outdoor activities. The system defines a combination bag, mat, and flotation device that optimizes the outdoor activity experience by reducing the number of accessories one needs to individually bring for such activities. The system improves upon the prior art by providing a bag that, at any time, can be converted into either a mat, for laying on, or a flotation device. The system may further include a plurality of attachable accessories which enhance the functionality of the system. In the bag configuration, the system can be used to carry the plurality of attachable accessories as well as various personal items. The system improves over the prior art by providing a multifunctional system that enhances the outdoor activity experience by reducing the number of items one needs to travel with and providing an efficient method for transporting such items. The system further improves upon the prior art by allowing the user to adapt the system to ever changing factors such as weather conditions or participating in different activities.
Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a perspective view of a combination bag, mat, and flotation device 100 in a mat configuration 190 is shown, according to an example embodiment. FIG. 1B illustrates example attachment elements, such as stakes, used to secure the device, in the mat configuration, to a ground, such as sand or soil. As illustrated, the combination bag, mat, and flotation device is shown in a mat configuration. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device 100 includes a mat 102. The mat includes an internal surface 110 and an external surface 111, a mat section first side 115, and a mat section second side 120. As shown, the internal surface of the mat is upward facing, and the external surface of the mat is oriented downwards proximate to a ground surface 101. The ground surface may be any surface of which people lay a mat down, including but not limited to, sand, snow, grass, asphalt, and/or any objects wherein a person may sit or lay down on. The mat is substantially rectangular and elongated such that the mat may be configured to be the length of a person for example.
The mat may be defined by a middle section of the device 100 such that the mat includes a flotation device 103, 104 in attachment with the mat on either end of the mat. Flotation device 103 is in attachment with the mat section first side 115 and flotation device 104 is in attachment with the mat section second side 120. Each of the pair of flotation devices 103, 104 has an internal air compartment and an inflation nozzle. The user can user the inflation nozzle to insert air into the flotation device. The flotation device will inflate with air and expand. As a result, the air within the internal air compartment of each of the flotation devices allows the device to float when within water. However, while in operation in the mat configuration each of the flotation devices may act as a pillow to support the users head and/or legs while resting on the mat. Otherwise, in the mat configuration, the user may have each of the flotation devices deflated.
The substantially rectangular elongated mat includes a zipper 105 a, 105 b disposed on a mat perimeter. The zipper may be disposed on a portion of the perimeter of the mat, such as the perimeter of the map that is not in attachment with a flotation device. The zippers are disposed on the perimeter of the mat to allow the user to quickly fold the mat in half and zip each of the zipper 105 a, 105 b closed to transform the device from the mat configuration into the bag configuration. The user folds the mat by moving the mat section first side proximate to the mat section second side or by folding the mat in half across midline M.
The mat may be constructed from one or more types of fabrics or materials such as polyester, fleece, nylon, microfiber, plastic, etc. In one embodiment the fabric is a material that is water, chemical, and sun resistant. The design of the material may be a solid color, multiple colors, or other patterns such as stripes, plaid, floral, camouflage, etc. In certain embodiments the internal surface of the mat may be comprised of different materials than the external surface of the mat. For example, because the internal surface is configured to contact user such that it is configured to be sat or laid upon, then the internal surface may include cotton and/or other soft materials. Comparingly, because the external surface is configured to contact the ground surface, the external surface may include more durable materials suitable to withstand the natural elements, such as nylons, and polyesters. In other embodiments, to reduce the weight of the device and to allow sand and water to easily permeate the mat, the mat may be defined by a mesh pattern or mesh-like material.
The mat further comprises a first fastener 125 in attachment proximate to the mat section first side, a second fastener 130 in attachment proximate to the mat section second side, a first pair of holes 135 proximate to the mat section first side, and a second pair of holes 140 proximate to the mat section second side. The first fastener and second fastener are configured to removably mate with each other. In one embodiment the first fastener and second faster may be plastic grommets configured to snap fit when they are pressed against each other when a force is applied. In other embodiments, the first fastener and second fastener may be magnets of opposite poles so that the first fastener and the second fastener can removably mate with each other. Furthermore, the first fastener and second fastener may include hook and loop elements, or Velcro®, so that the mat section first side can removably mate with the mat section second side. Ideally, each of the first fasteners and the second fasteners are at least disposed on the mat proximate to a corner of the mat. Being disposed on the corner of the mat allows the mat to hold together to retain the bag configuration. In other embodiments, the first fastener and the second fastener may extend the length of each of the mat section first side and second side to allow the device to open and close in the bag configuration. In the bag configuration, when the zippers 105 a, 105 b are closed, the zippers will define the sides of the bag and the mat section first and second side will define the tip of the bag.
The pair of first holes and pair of second holes be configured to each receive a stake in the mat configuration. A stake may be ideal to secure the mat to the ground surface. For example, on a windy day, the user may want to prevent the device from blowing away, so the user may insert stages into each of the first holes and the second holes and into the ground surface. The system may include at least four stakes 145, each configured to secure the substantially rectangular elongated mat to a ground surface. In other embodiments, depending on the size and length of the elongated mat, the mat may include fewer or more first and second holes. Correspondingly, the system may include as many stakes as are holes in the mat to adequately secure the mat to the ground surface. In the mat configuration, the stakes may be inserted through the pairs of first holes and second holes and into the ground to keep the mat secured in place. In this configuration the mat can be used for various leisure activities. In one embodiment, the mat may be placed over the sand area of a beach and laid on so that the user may sunbathe comfortably. To insert, the user could align a stake vertically, through the center of a hole and press with a downward force using either their hand, foot, or a tool such as a hammer, until a majority of the length of the stake has passed through the hole and into the ground. Additionally, to cover a larger portion of the ground surface with the device, the user may overlay a second device and line up the holes of the second device with the holes of the first device. Then the user may insert the stakes into the holes to secure the second device to the first device. By connecting two mats together the user can cover a larger surface area to enjoy its leisure activities. In other embodiments, the user may connect the second device to the first device using the first and second fasteners, or by using a clasp, such as a zip tie, twine, or carabiner clip for example, to secure both devices together,
In other embodiments, the system may further comprise an at least one drain hole 150. In an example embodiment, the at least one drain holes are located at the center of the mat and are arranged in a straight line parallel to the mat section first side and mat section second side. The function of the drain holes is to remove excess water, sand, and/or dirt that may compile on the mat when a user lays on it after being in a pool, ocean, or any other body of water.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A through 2C, a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device 100 in the flotation device configuration 200 is shown, according to an example embodiment. The flotation device configuration is when each of the flotation devices is inflated such that air is within the internal air compartment and the device is in a body of water 290, such as an ocean, pool, lake, river, etc. Because air is in each of the flotation devices, the device will float. In the flotation device configuration 200 the mat is in attachment with a pair of flotation devices 205, wherein one of the flotation devices is in attachment with a mat section first side and another with a mat section second side. Each flotation device comprises an internal air compartment 210 a, 210 b, inflation nozzle 215, attachment element 220, and an air nozzle exhaust valve 225. The inflation nozzle and the air nozzle exhaust valve may be one-way nozzles allowing air to pass through. The inflation nozzle only allows air to enter the internal air compartment such that the internal air compartment may inflate without letting any air escape. The air nozzle exhaust valve may be opened to easily release air from within the internal air compartment to outside of the internal air compartment.
The flotation devices may be inflated by inserting a manual or electric air pump into the inflation nozzle and forcing air into the internal air compartment. Once inflated, the user may lay on the mat, using the mat section first side flotation device as a pillow or headrest and the mat section second side flotation device as a footrest. The mat may also be taken into a body of water such as a pool and used as a flotation device for sitting or lying on. The air nozzle exhaust valve, when opened, can be used to quickly deflate a flotation device.
In the flotation device configuration, the combination bag, mat, and flotation device can serve several uses. It can be rested on and used as a means of relaxation or sunbathing for users who wish to relax in the pool or other bodies of water. A parent of a small child or child who cannot swim can place their child on the flotation device so that they can be brought into the pool area without having to be held onto.
Referring now to FIGS. 3A through 4C, the device is shown in the bag configuration. FIG. 3A and FIG. 4A illustrate a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the bag configuration, according to an example embodiment. The embodiment of FIG. 4A includes a handle in attachment, shown in FIG. 4B, with the device in the bag configuration. The embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 4A is achieved by folding the device 100 of FIG. 1A over the midline M. The user will grab the flotation device 103 and move it in direction A towards the midline M and also grab flotation device 104 and move it in direction B towards the midline. As a result, the mat section first side and mat section second side will be proximate to each other. The user can then, in no specific order, either close the zippers 105 a and 105 b forming the sides of the bag and secure the first fasteners 125 to the second fasteners 130. The resulting configuration of the device is the bag configuration. The mat may be converted to a bag configuration 300 by folding the mat so that a first portion of the internal surface 110 faces a second portion of the internal surface, the first fastener 125 is removably attached to the second fastener 130, and the zipper 105 is fastened. The internal surface will define the internal compartment storage 305 when the zippers are closed. The external surface 111 forms the outer area of the bag.
In certain embodiments, the mat may have pockets on the internal surface such that when the device is in the bag configuration, the internal storage compartment also has said pockets. The internal storage compartment may hold and/or store various items such as additional mat accessories or personal items such as sunglasses, mobile devices, water bottles, keys, wallets, towels, beach toys, camping accessories, food, etc. In embodiments where the mat is mesh or a mesh-like material, the internal storage compartment may be configured to receive a liner, which is further detailed in FIGS. 5A through 6 . The liner may be a watertight compartment configured to protect various personal items and electronic devices from elements such as sand and water. In other embodiments, the line may be insulated such that the device in the bag configuration will define a cooler. The insulated line may hold ice, water to keep any beverages or food items stored within the internal storage compartment cold.
The mat further comprises an at least one securing element 405 and a handle 410. The securing element is configured to removably attach to at least one of the attachment element, the first pair of holes, the second pair of holes, the accessory, and a second combination bag, mat, and flotation device. In an example embodiment, the securing element may be a carabiner. The handle is configured to attach to the pair of first holes 135 and to the pair of second holes 140 when the pair of first holes are proximate to the pair of second holes. The handle may be a strap configured to attach to the securing elements such that the user may carry the mat in the form of a bag. The strap may be attached to an at least one securing element in attachment with the pair of first holes and pair of second holes. The strap can be made from one or more materials such as cotton, nylon, polyester, leather, metal, etc. Other materials may be used and are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. When the strap is in attachment with the mat in the bag configuration, the user may carry the bag by holding the strap in her hand or resting the strap on her shoulder.
In an example embodiment, the combination bag, mat, and flotation device can be converted from a mat configuration to a bag configuration by folding the ends of the mat in the A1 and A2 direction (as shown in FIG. 1A), attaching the first fastener to the second fastener, sealing the zipper by fastening the zipper handle and sliding it in the B direction, and attaching the handle. The attached, deflated flotation devices will act as flaps which hang to the sides of the bag. The handle can be attached by connecting a device such as a carabiner to each end of the handle and/or to the pair of first holes and to the pair of second holes when the pair of first holes are proximate to the pair of second holes.
When the combination bag, mat, and flotation device is in this bag configuration it can be used to optimize travel and transportation of items to and from the destination of the desired outdoor activity. In an example embodiment, it can be used to carry items to the beach such as a cell phone, keys, wallet, water bottle, food, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc. Additionally, the drain holes, located at the bottom of the bag in this configuration, can be used to remove any water, sand, or other foreign particles that may be brought into the bag unintentionally. Since all of these items can be stored in the combination bag, mat, and flotation device the user does not need to bring a separate beach bag nor does she need to bring a beach blanket or flotation device. The reduction in items results in fewer trips and less strenuous trips to and from the car.
Once the user has arrived at the desired location, such as, the beach, she can convert the bag back to its mat confirmation. This is done by emptying the contents of the bag, detaching the handle, sliding the zipper handle in the C direction, and pulling the flotation device flaps in the D1 and D2 directions with sufficient force. Here, sufficient force means enough force to detach the first fastener from the second fastener. The user should then be able to lay the mat flat on the ground and if desired, can insert the stakes to keep the mat in place. When not in use, items such as the handle, carabiners, and stakes may be stored for safekeeping in the pocket liner (as described below in FIG. 5A through FIG. 6 ).
Referring now to FIGS. 5A through 6 , a perspective view of a pocket liner which may be inserted into the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the bag configuration 300 is shown, according to an example embodiment. The pocket liner 500 may be used to store and organize items 515 such as mat accessories or personal items such as cell phones, keys, wallets, cameras, water bottles, food, etc. The pocket liner may be constructed from the same material as the mat or another material that is insulative, such as aluminum, so that the pocket liner may be used as a cooler. In other embodiments, the pocket liner may be constructed from other materials configured to protect the items from environmental objects, such as sand or water. In an example embodiment, the pocket liner has pockets 505 for storage, an internal compartment and zipper 510 for sealing the internal compartment and is constructed from aluminum. In other embodiments, the pocket liner might be sealed using an interlocking mechanism configured to airtightly enclose the items within the pocket liner. The interlocking mechanism may be similar to those commonly used on sandwich bags. However, other sealing tools may be used that are configured provide an airtight seal on the pocket liner. The pocket liner may be used to store drinks such as water, juice, soda, etc. or food items that need to be kept cool for the duration of time that the user is enjoying the outdoor activities. The insulated pocket liner eliminates the need to bring a device such as a cooler, therefore, further reducing the number items necessary for the outdoor activity. This is especially true for activities such as camping, picnicking, or going to the beach since a cooler would typically be desired.
In the bag configuration, the pocket liner can be inserted into the combination bag, mat, and flotation device’s internal compartment storage 305. The pocket liner is configured to fit in the internal compartment storage when inserted in the F direction.
Referring now to FIGS. 7A through 9D, a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device configuration and in attachment with various accessories and/or at least one second combination bag, mat, and flotation device is shown, according to an example embodiment. In the flotation device configuration, the combination bag, mat, and flotation device 100 may be in attachment with at least one of an accessory or second combination bag, mat, and flotation device 900. The accessories may include, according to an example embodiment, a sunshade 705 and a cup holder 710. The sunshade and cup holder may be in attachment with the device when the device is in the mat configuration and the bag configuration. The device may be in attachment with other accessories and such accessories are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Example accessories may include toys, sunglass holders, coolers, umbrellas, etc. The device may include attachment elements 702 which may be disposed on each of the flotation devices 103, 104. The attachment element is configured to receive the accessory, such as sunshade 705 for example. The accessory may removably attach to the attachment element using a securing element, such as securing element 708 which is a carabiner, or be configured to press-fit or friction fit into the attachment element. In other embodiments, the accessory may attach to other portions of the device, such as attaching to the first holes and second holes using the securing element, and/or attaching to either the first or second fasteners. Ideally, the accessories will attach to the device at designated attachment tabs disposed on the perimeter of the device which may include the perimeter of the mat and the perimeter of each of the flotation devices.
In an example embodiment, the sunshade may be an easy snap sunshade that uses a wire 706 or other ridged material to keep the curved shape of the sunshade. The sunshade is configured to removably attach to the pair of first holes so that it may protect the headrest area of the flotation device from sun exposure. The sunshade can be used in attachment with either the combination bag, mat, and flotation device’s mat configuration or flotation device configuration, depending on the user’s preference. When the combination bag, mat, and flotation device is in the bag configuration, the sunshade can be stored in the internal compartment storage 305. The user may rest his or her head on the flotation device 103 which will be covered by the sunshade. In such a position, the user’s legs will be positioned on top of flotation device 104 and the user’s body will by contained within the internal surface. The device will keep the user afloat in the water to enjoy a leisurely drift and relaxing experience.
In the same embodiment or other embodiments, a cup holder may be configured to removably attach to the attachment element 220. The cup holder can be removably attached to the attachment element by means of a connecting device such as a carabiner. The cup holder may be configured to float and can be used while the combination bag, mat, and flotation device is in the flotation device configuration for the purpose of holding drink cups, canned drinks, or bottled drinks while in the water. When the combination bag, mat, and flotation device is in the bag configuration, the cup holder can be stored in the internal compartment storage. The cup holder may also be a tumbler or other drink container configured to attach to the device.
In the same embodiment or other embodiments, at least one of a second combination bag, mat, or flotation device may be configured to removably attach to the at least one of the attachment element, the first pair of holes, and the second pair of holes. At least one of a connecting device such as a carabiner may be used to removably attach the at least one of the attachment element, the first pair of holes, and the second pair of holes of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device to the at least one of the attachment element, the first pair of holes, and the second pair of holes of a second combination bag, mat, and flotation device. The multiple combination bag, mat, and flotation devices may be used in attachment with each other so that a single user may have more area to lay on or for multiple users to share.
Referring to FIG. 8 , a perspective view of the combination bag, mat, and flotation device in the flotation device chair configuration is shown, according to an example embodiment. In the example embodiment, the combination bag, mat, and flotation device 100 can be further configured to be in a chair configuration 800. Based on the embodiments disclosed herein, there are numerous ways to achieve the chair configuration. For example, the user may attach a securing element 708 or connecting device, such as a carabiner, on one of each of the first holes and second holes on the same side of the mat. This will only bring two of the holes proximate to each other allowing the user to sit on the internal surface in the flotation device configuration. Also, the user may attach one of the pair of first and second fasteners together to create an embodiment of the same function. In other embodiments, the user may close one of the zippers either 105 a or 105 b or connect two ends of the device via a securing element in attachment with the attachment tabs on each of the flotation devices 103 and 104. In this char configuration the user will sit on the internal surface and each of the flotation devices 103 and 104 will define arm rests for the user.
In other words, the chair configuration may be achieved by using a connecting device such as a carabiner to link the mat section first side of the flotation device to the mat section second side of the flotation device. The carabiner may be connected to an attachment element, or one of the first and second holes to create the chair configuration. When the flotation device is oriented in the chair configuration the combination bag, mat, and flotation device is in a body of water, the mat portion of the system will form a corner shaped pocket which the user can sit in and leisurely enjoy the day out on the water.
As shown in FIGS. 9A through 9D, If multiple users are each using a combination bag, mat, and flotation devices in the flotation device configuration, they could connect them using one of the methods described herein so that the users do not get separated from one another while in the water. In an example embodiment, the combination bag, mat, and flotation device, while in the flotation device configuration, is in attachment with a second combination bag, mat, and flotation device 900, which is also in the flotation device configuration, in a lengthwise configuration 905. To achieve the lengthwise configuration, a connecting device such as a carabiner may be removably attached to an attachment element 702 of a flotation device 104 of the first combination device 100 with the attachment tab 702 of the flotation device 103 of the second combination device 900. Embodiments supporting additional devices, such as three or more, in attachment with one another in this configuration 905 are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.
In another example embodiment the combination bag, mat, and flotation device, while in the flotation device configuration, is in attachment with a second combination bag, mat, and flotation device, which is also in the flotation device configuration, in a side-by-side configuration 910. To achieve the side-by-side configuration, the flotation device 103 of device 100 may be in attachment with the flotation device 103 of device 900 via a securing element in attachment at least one of the attachment tabs on each of the flotation devices or by connecting the first holes of device 100 to the first holes of device 900. Also, in this side-by-side configuration, the flotation device 104 of device 100 may be in attachment with the flotation device 104 of device 900 via a securing element in attachment at least one of the attachment tabs on each of the flotation devices or by connecting the second holes of device 100 to the second holes of device 900. The first device 100 and second device 900 may similarly be connected in the mat configuration to create a mat covering a larger surface area of the ground surface. In this embodiment, each respective mat section first side and mat section second side align parallel with one another. In this side-by-side configuration, the attached pair of combination bag, mat, and flotation devices may be used by a single user as a larger area for laying or by multiple users for sharing a laying space. Embodiments supporting additional devices, such as three or more, in attachment with one another in this configuration 910 are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.
In other embodiments, as depicted in embodiment 915 and 920, numerous second devices 900 may be in attachment with the device 100 in the char configuration. Embodiments supporting additional devices, such as three or more, in attachment with one another in this configuration 915 are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Such an example embodiment having three or more devices in attachment with one another is shown in embodiment 920. As shown, the device 100 has a second device 900 attached to each flotation device. The user may want to connect multiple devices together to create a social group to enjoy the outdoor activities. This embodiment addresses a common issue with the prior art in that a group of people, floating down a river for example, may tie their rafts together with twine thereby creating a tangled web of rope having high tension which may be dangerous to the rafters. The web of rope may be a choking hazard or may cross over other rafts which may cause discomfort or even rope burn. This embodiment 920 address a solution to the problem creating a unitary device connecting multiple devices 100 in an orderly manner. The multiple devices may be connected in an open shape as shown in embodiment 920 or may be enclosed, such as creating a circular shape, such that flotation device 904 may be in attachment with flotation device 903 in embodiment 920. Furthermore, the device 100 may be in attachment with both an accessory and a second device. Moreover, the users may connect multiple devices where each device is in a different configuration. For example, the user may have some devices connected in the side-by-side configuration where one of the devices is also in a chair configuration 800 and the other is not. Other permutations connecting multiple devices in accordance with this disclosure is within the spirit and scope of the invention.
Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A combination bag, mat, and flotation device comprising:

a. a substantially rectangular elongated mat having an external surface and an internal surface;

b. a pair of flotation devices wherein each flotation device has an internal air compartment and an inflation nozzle, wherein one of the flotation devices is attached to a mat section first side and a mat section second side;

c. a zipper disposed on a mat perimeter; and,

d. a first fastener with the substantially rectangular elongated mat proximate to the mat section first side;

e. a second fastener in attachment with the substantially rectangular elongated mat proximate to the mat section second side; and

f. wherein the first fastener and the second fastener are configured to removably mate with each other.

2. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 1, further comprising:

a. a first pair of holes on the substantially rectangular elongated mat proximate to the mat section first side; and

b. a second pair of holes on the substantially rectangular elongated mat proximate to the mat section second side.

3. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 2, further comprising an attachment element on each of the flotation devices of the pair of flotation devices.

4. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 3, wherein at least one of an accessory and a second combination bag, mat, and flotation device is configured to removably attach to at least one of the attachment element, the first pair of holes, and the second pair of holes.

5. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 1, further comprising a bag configuration having an internal storage compartment defined by the internal surface when the mat is folded such that a first portion of the internal surface faces a second portion of the internal surface, the zipper is closed, and the first fastener is removably attached to the second fastener.

6. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 5, further comprising a handle configured to attach to the pair of first holes and to the pair of second holes when the pair of first holes are proximate to the pair of second holes, wherein the handle is configured to carry the bag when in the bag configuration.

7. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 6, further comprising at least four stakes, wherein in a mat configuration each stake is received by each hole of the pair of first holes and the pair of second holes and wherein each stake is configured to secure the substantially rectangular elongated mat to a ground surface; and wherein, in the mat configuration, at least one stake of the at least four stakes can removably attach at least one of the accessory and the second combination bag, mat, and flotation device to the combination bag, mat, and flotation device.

8. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 7, further comprising a securing element configured to removably attach to at least one of the attachment element, the first pair of holes, the second pair of holes, the accessory, and the second combination bag, mat, and flotation device.

9. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 8, further comprising a flotation device chair configuration defined by at least one of (1) the securing element in attachment with one of the first pair of holes and one of the second pair of holes, and (2) the first fastener is removably attached to the second fastener.

10. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 9, wherein the accessory is a sunshade, a cooler, a cup holder, a phone case, etc.

11. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 10 further comprising a pocket in attachment with the continuous external surface.

12. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 11 further comprising a pocket liner configured to be inserted into the internal storage compartment in the bag configuration.

13. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 12, wherein the pocket liner comprises an insulative material in a cooler configuration.

14. The combination bag, mat, and flotation device of claim 13, wherein each flotation device of the pair of flotation devices comprises an air nozzle, wherein the air nozzle comprises an air intake valve configured for inflating the flotation device and an air nozzle exhaust valve configured for quickly deflating the flotation device.