U.S. patent application number 09/838511 was filed with the patent office on 2002-10-24 for business case with expandable internal compartment for overnight clothing.
Invention is credited to Krulik, Richard J..
Application Number | 20020153216 09/838511 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25277273 |
Filed Date | 2002-10-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020153216 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Krulik, Richard J. |
October 24, 2002 |
Business case with expandable internal compartment for overnight
clothing
Abstract
A soft-sided business case is convertible from a low-profile
configuration to an expanded configuration. The business case
comprises a first internal compartment that is zippered and
appropriately padded for storing a computer or other personal
electronic device and related accessories. The opposite side of
business case comprises an interior zippered compartment enclosing
a file folio having a plurality of pockets. A third internal
compartment is provided between the file folio compartment and the
first interior compartment and comprises gusseted expanding central
walls for increasing the interior volume of the third internal
compartment to receive clothing and/or other personal articles so
that the case can also be used as an overnight travel bag. Access
to the third interior compartment is through a soft interior
dividing wall releasably affixed to the file folio.
Inventors: |
Krulik, Richard J.; (Dix
Hills, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ABELMAN FRAYNE & SCHWAB
Attorney at Law
150 East 42nd Street
New York
NY
10017
US
|
Family ID: |
25277273 |
Appl. No.: |
09/838511 |
Filed: |
April 19, 2001 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
190/103 ;
190/109; 190/113 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 3/02 20130101; A45C
7/0027 20130101; A45C 2013/025 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
190/103 ;
190/109; 190/113 |
International
Class: |
A45C 007/00; A45C
003/00 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A soft-sided expandable business case, providing zippers for
accessing the internal compartments, having a first sidewall,
opposing second sidewall, each sidewall being fixedly attached to a
lower panel and an opposing upper panel, a first side panel and an
opposing second side panel, constructed of a fabric secured to a
rigid frame, said business case comprising: a first compartment
padded for carrying electronic devices and related accessories; a
second internal compartment comprising a central zipper, said
central zipper extending around the periphery of the case, and an
expansion gusset formed in the bottom, top and end walls of the
case for selectively increasing the internal volume of said second
compartment; a third compartment comprising a file folio secured to
the interior, the folio extending substantially between the lower
panel, upper panel, first side panel and second side panel; and a
means for carrying said business case, whereby the expansion gusset
is maintained on the interior of the case in a collapsed condition
when the central zipper is closed and said gusset forms a portion
of the lower panel, upper panel, first side panel and second side
panel in an expanded position when the central zipper is
opened.
2. The business case of claim 1, wherein an interior wall of the
file folio is maintained in a first retained position with respect
to the end walls of the case by at least one releasable fastener
and moveable to a second free position away from the end walls upon
release of said at least one fastener for accessing the internal
compartment of the third interior compartment.
3. The business case of claim 2 where the at least one releasable
fastener is selected from the group consisting of snaps, hook and
loop fasteners, clips, toggles and slot fasteners.
4. The business case of claim 3 where the at least one releasable
fastener is attached to a strip of flexible material.
5. The business case of claim 2 where the closed bottom portion of
the file folio is secured to the business case proximate the
juncture of the lower panel and first and second side panel of the
business case.
6. The business case of claim 5 where the first side wall forms the
front wall of the file folio, whereby the file folio is movable
with the unzippered side wall to provide access to the interior of
the case.
7. The business case of claim 1 wherein said second compartment
comprises restraining means for restricting the movement of stored
items.
8. The business case of claim 1 wherein said second compartment is
provided with means for retaining items of clothing when placed in
position in said expanded compartment for storage during
travel.
9. The business case of claim 1 wherein said second internal
compartment comprises form-fitting, water-proofing compartments for
personal toiletries.
10. The business case of claim 1 wherein said means for carrying
said business case comprises a plurality of straps.
11. The business case of claim 10 wherein said means for carrying
said business case comprises a shoulder strap.
12. The business case of claim 1 wherein a plurality of wheels are
mounted to the exterior lower panel of said business case for
rolling the business case across a support surface.
13. The business case of claim 12 further comprising a telescoping
handle assembly secured to said business case extendable above the
top panel and provided with a handle grip.
14. The business case of claim 1 wherein said first compartment
comprises means for cushioning and positioning an electronic
device.
15. The business case of claim 14 wherein said means for cushioning
an electronic device comprises impact resistant members and
stiffening inserts.
16. The business case of claim 1 wherein said expansion gusset is
composed primarily of a woven nylon fabric.
17. The business case of claim 1 further comprising an auxiliary
storage pocket attached to at least one of said first and second
sidewalls.
18. A soft-sided business case that is expandable to convert said
case to an overnight travel and business case, said business case
comprising a pair of opposing side walls, opposing lower and upper
panels and first and second opposing side panels, said case further
comprising an expansion gusset secured to the interior of the case
around the lower panel, opposing upper panel, first side panel and
opposing second side panel of the business case, and a continuous
zipper extending around the exterior of the lower panel, opposing
upper panel, first side panel and opposing second side panel, of
the business case, whereby the central zipper when closed maintains
the expansion gusset in a collapsed position and when opened allows
the expansion gusset to expand to provide an interior central
storage compartment of increased volume between opposing storage
volumes.
19. A soft-sided business case containing a plurality of internal
compartments having at least one expansion gusset for increasing
the interior storage volume of said business case, said expansion
gusset accessible by a closure having a zipper, which, when closed
collapses the gusset and when opened allows expansion of the
gusset, whereby the volume defined by the expansion gusset is
increased.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of portable
traveling bags and business cases for the transporting and storage
of papers, books, computers, portable electronic equipment, school
supplies and the like, in addition to portable traveling bags and,
more particularly, to a business case with an expandable internal
compartment for use as an overnight travel bag.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Carry bags, backpacks and business cases are well known in
the art and are readily available in many shapes and sizes for many
types of use. In addition, it is well known in the art to provide
carry bags and the like which have small expandable compartments
designed for storing or carrying specific items or devices.
Specifically, it is common in the art to provide a business case
for carrying electronic equipment (i.e., personal laptop computers,
personal digital assistants and the like) and paperwork. In
addition, it is common in the art to provide expandable
compartments for accommodating such items and carrying associated
items such as electronic mediums, pens, books and files.
Furthermore, it is well known in the art to provide carry bags and
garment bags for carrying clothing and related accessories for
travel. However, carry cases generally serve a single purpose,
thus, a business case designed for carrying business related items
is not generally useful for carrying overnight clothing for
short-term travel.
[0003] Therefore, a need exists in the art for a dual-purpose
carrying case which offers a user the opportunity to carry not only
office or work-related items, but also provides the user with
sufficient expandable storage capacity as an option for carrying
clothing, personal toiletry items, and the like. It is a novel
aspect of the present invention to provide a business case with a
plurality of expandable internal compartments for storing
electronic devices, paperwork, files and the like that is also
adapted for carrying clothing and related items for overnight or
short-term travel in a compact carrying case, the bulk and volume
of which can be minimized after unpacking the personal items.
[0004] Dyke U.S. Pat. No. 3,443,671 discloses an expandable
suitcase capable of being enlarged throughout the entire
cross-section comprising a transversely extensible collar around
the periphery. However, Dyke fails to teach a business case
comprising a plurality of expandable internal compartments and an
interior padded computer carrying compartment, a file folio and the
like. Further, Dyke fails to disclose a business case of sufficient
expansion for allowing a user to carry overnight clothing for
short-term travel.
[0005] Margerum et al. U.S. Pat. No. 3,904,003 discloses a
combination business case and desk allowing the brief case to be
converted from one configuration to the other. Margerum teaches of
one embodiment providing a pivotable side wall of the brief case
which may be lowered to be used as a desk writing area while
allowing a user to directly access the contents located in the
drawers, file folders and the like therein. However, Mergerum fails
to disclose a business case having a means for expansion.
Specifically, Margerum fails to teach of a business case having a
plurality of expandable internal compartments for storing
electronic devices, paperwork, files and the like in addition to
overnight clothing and related items for short-term travel.
[0006] Ginat U.S. Pat. No. 4,236,615 discloses several embodiments
of packing cases having expansible compartments, including packing
cases comprising an expansible partition of flexible material
secured along the peripheral edges of a case. The partition is
normally disposed within the main compartment of the case to form
an auxiliary compartment separate from, but expansible within, the
main case compartment and closable by a fastener device. In one
embodiment, an opening is formed in an end wall of the case, and
the partition is dimensioned such that the expansible auxiliary
compartment is approximately the full volume of the main
compartment. In two further embodiments, the bottom wall of the
case can be opened, and the partition, in addition to being
disposable within the main compartment to form an expansible
auxiliary compartment therein, may also be projected through the
opened bottom wall to form a bottom extension of the main
compartment. However, Ginat fails to disclose a business case
comprising an interior padded computer carrying compartment, a file
folio and the like for retaining business related items therein.
Further, Ginat fails to disclose a business case of sufficient size
for carrying overnight luggage for short-term travel in addition to
business related articles.
[0007] Kotkins, Jr. U.S. Pat. No. 4,773,515 discloses a
multi-compartment, expansible luggage bag comprising a main storage
compartment with one or more expansible joints to increase the size
of the main storage compartment. In conjunction with the main
storage compartment, provided is a separable end storage
compartment having an inner flexible membrane that can be extended
inwardly beyond each of the expansion joints to maximize the volume
of the end storage compartment when the expansion joints are open.
However, Kotkins, Jr. fails to disclose a business case comprising
an interior padded computer carrying compartment, a file folio and
the like for retaining business related items therein. Furthermore,
Kotkins Jr. fails to disclose sufficient expansion members that
allow for carrying business related items in addition to overnight
clothing.
[0008] Pulichino, Jr. U.S. Pat. No. 4,925,021 discloses a soft
luggage-type suitcase having three compartments enclosed by panels
or lids hinged to a container having top, bottom and side walls.
Pulichino also teaches of the use of a soft luggage suitcase with a
hanger bracket to avoid the common problems traditionally
associated with zipper closures. However, Pulichino fails to
disclose a means for expanding the interior compartment of a
business case for carrying clothing and related toiletries for
overnight travel.
[0009] Brown U.S. Pat. No. 5,010,988 discloses an expandable shock
protected carrying case. Specifically, Brown discloses a carrying
case adapted for use in carrying lap top computers, printers, fax
machines and the like, comprising a case having an outer shell
formed of a durable waterproof material and a case interior
including a main storage compartment and a secondary storage
compartment. An expansion zone formed on a surrounding side wall
structure allows the secondary storage compartment to be adjustable
between a collapsed stowed position and an expanded operative
position thereby providing a second compartment to store computer
equipment. The carrying case further includes a shock barrier
construction defined by a layer of shock absorbent material fitted
between the exterior shell and an inner lining in surrounding
protecting relation to the case interior. However, Brown fails to
disclose a business case comprising an expandable gusset that
allows a user to convert the business case from a low-profile
configuration having minimal central volume to an expanded volume
for carrying overnight clothing, toiletries and the like.
[0010] Chu U.S. Pat. No. 5,086,888 discloses a folding suitcase
with a hard casing consisting of six hard sides, wherein the plate
bodies of hard casing on the bottom, left and right sides (i.e.
bottom, left and right plate bodies) are separable from their
corresponding soft surface materials so that these plate bodies
become removable. In addition Chu teaches that when hook-and-loop
fasteners are disengaged from each other and the bottom, left and
right plate bodies are removed, only the soft surface materials are
left on the bottom, left and right sides of the suitcase which
become foldable, so the suitcase as a whole can be folded into a
flat shape with its front and rear sides overlapping each other in
order to reduce the space required for warehousing, shipping and
storing it. However, Chu discloses a rigid-sided case and fails to
disclose a soft-sided business case which provides for expansion.
Although Chu provides for a low-profile configuration, this
configuration is only suitable for storage or warehousing and does
not provide an interior volume for carrying business related items.
Furthermore, Chu fails to disclose a business case comprising an
interior file folio, padded computer carrying compartment and the
like.
[0011] Marceau U.S. Pat. No. 5,160,001 discloses a soft combination
business case and carrying case for the purpose of transporting a
portable computer easily and in relative safety with its ancillary
supplies. Marceau also teaches of an interior structure for
suspending the computer unit in the central zone of the carrying
case, spaced from the case bottom for protecting the computer
against damage. However, Marceau's improved computer storage bag
fails to disclose a business case for storing and transporting
business related items in addition to overnight clothing.
Furthermore, Marceau fails to disclose a business case comprising
an interior file folio and an expansion means for increasing the
interior volume of the business case.
[0012] Hollingsworth U.S. Pat. No. 5,217,119 discloses an improved
carrying case for a laptop computer or other delicate electronic
instrument that is generally rectangular, having front and rear
walls. Furthermore, disclosed is a suspension system for the laptop
computer or other equipment including a cradle suspended from the
front and rear walls for receiving a laptop computer, and elastic
panel members supporting the cradle for absorbing shocks and
impacts occurring upon placing of the case on a floor or the like.
However, Hollingsworth fails to disclose a business case that can
be expanded to carry clothing for short-term travel in addition to
business related materials. Furthermore, Hollingsworth fails to
disclose a business case that can be converted from a low-profile
case of minimal volume to an expanded volume case.
[0013] Zia et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,242,056 discloses a portable
office carrying case having a base fabricated of ridged material
and at least the front and back sides fabricated of ridged material
to protect electronic equipment, such as a portable computer,
placed within the case by the user to be moved and placed on a
working surface. Zia et al. further discloses a portable office
carrying case having a hinged front ridged side that is detachable
from the sides so that the user may lower the front side from a
vertical position onto the working surface providing access to the
keyboard of the computer at substantially the working surface
level; and means for attaching a storage pocket to the outside of
the back ridged side and a divider that may be mounted inside the
case to define compartments for storing office materials. However,
Zia et al. fails to disclose a business case comprising an
expandable gusset that allows a user to convert the business case
from a low-profile configuration having minimal central volume to
an expanded volume for carrying overnight clothing, toiletries and
the like.
[0014] Hollingsworth U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,754 discloses a carrying
case for electronic equipment, such as a notebook computer,
comprising a pair of opposed walls, a plurality of side walls
connected there between to define a principal compartment for
receiving the notebook computer, and a suspension member affixed to
an upper portion of one of the opposed walls and depending
downwardly there from into the principal compartment. The
suspension member includes upper and lower supports to cradle the
notebook computer and an elastic panel disposed between the upper
and lower supports to absorb any shock which would otherwise occur
due to the carrying case being abruptly dropped. Alternatively, the
suspension member can be an elastic panel having opposed ends
supported by an upper portion of one of the opposed walls to define
an elastic sling which is suspended downwardly from the wall within
the principal compartment to receive the notebook computer. The
suspension member can also be releasably connected between the
opposed walls to define a shock absorbing cradle which can be
removed so that the carrying case can be used for other purposes.
However, Hollingsworth fails to disclose an expansion gusset for
increasing the interior volume of a business case. Furthermore,
Hollingsworth fails to disclose a business case that can be
converted from a low-profile case of minimal volume to an expanded
volume case for carrying overnight clothing for short-term
travel.
[0015] Shyr U.S. Pat. No. 5,967,270 discloses a combination
business case and computer bag assembly including a housing member
having a bottom member, a plurality of side members, and a pair of
pivotable top flap members. One of the side members includes a
flexible floating compartment that is dimensionally configured to
receive a portable computer. When the portable computer is held in
the flexible floating compartment, it extends in the business case
enclosure to protect the portable computer. However, Shyr fails to
disclose a business case comprising an expandable gusset that
allows a user to convert the business case from a low-profile
configuration having minimal central volume to an expanded volume
for carrying overnight clothing, toiletries and the like.
[0016] Wyant U.S. Pat. No. 6,053,382 discloses a school-use
backpack that is similar in styling to conventional school-use
backpacks, which can be expanded to increase the interior storage
volume of the backpack when additional storage space is required.
In particular, the backpack disclosed in Wyant includes front,
back, and side panels which define a zippered main storage
compartment, two shoulder straps, and a zippered gusset which is
sewn into the side panel of the backpack. However, Wyant is limited
to a school-use back pack. Furthermore, Wyant fails to disclose a
business case comprising an interior padded computer carrying
compartment, a file folio and the like for retaining business
related items therein.
[0017] In view of the foregoing, there exists a clear need for an
expandable business case for transporting business related items
including, but not limited to files, papers, a portable computer,
pens, a calculator, note pads and the like. Furthermore, there
exists a need to provide a business case which is convertible from
a low-profile case of minimal volume for business related items to
an expanded volume case for carrying overnight clothing for
short-term travel in addition to business related items.
[0018] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a business case comprising the features of construction,
combination of elements and configuration of parts which will be
exemplified in the construction of the invention set forth.
[0019] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
device which exhibits strength and durability of use.
[0020] It is still a further object of the present invention to
provide a convertible business case that allows the user to expand
the interior volume.
[0021] Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a business case comprising a plurality of expandable
internal compartments and an interior padded computer carrying
compartment, a file folio and the like.
[0022] Still further, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a business case allowing for sufficient expansion for
carrying overnight clothing for short-term travel.
[0023] Still further, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a business case constructed with internal compartments for
carrying business related items in addition to clothing and
personal toiletries.
[0024] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
business case that exhibits a low-profile configuration.
[0025] It is still a further object of the present invention to
provide a business or carrying case comprising an expansion gusset
that allows a user to convert the business case from a low-profile
configuration having minimal central volume convertible to a
business case having an expanded central volume.
[0026] Other objects, features and characteristics of the present
invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the
related elements of the invention, and the combination of parts and
economies of development and performance, will become more apparent
upon consideration of the following description with reference to
the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this
specification.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0027] The present invention is directed to a dual purpose business
case or briefcase made of suitable material for carrying business
related materials, and as having an expandable interior compartment
for carrying personal clothing and travel accessories, such as
toiletries. Specifically, a soft-sided business case is provided
that is preferably constructed of woven nylon, synthetic or natural
leather. The contents of the expandable internal compartment are
preferably concealed from view when either of the adjoining
compartments adapted for carrying business items is opened. The
business case can be constructed in whole or in selected part of a
waterproof material or can be treated in a manner to protect one or
more of the interior compartments from water.
[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the business case of the present
invention comprises a plurality of internal compartments and/or
storage pockets. In the preferred embodiment of the present
invention, a housing structure is provided including a first
exterior sidewall and an opposing second exterior sidewall, each
sidewall being fixedly attached to a lower bottom panel and an
opposing upper top panel, a first side panel and an opposing second
side panel that forms a business case. The first sidewall and the
second sidewall are attached to the lower panel, upper panel, first
side panel and second side panel by common methods known in the art
for attaching the materials together, such as stitching. Further, a
plurality of fastening means such as zippers, snaps, hook and loop
fasteners and/or buttons are provided to allow the user to access
the internal compartments of the business case and subsequently
rejoin the members of the case after opening it.
[0029] In one preferred embodiment, the business case includes an
first external compartment that can be expandable and serves a
variety of functions. This first external compartment is internally
separated from the rest of the adjacent compartments of the case.
Access to this first compartment can be via a rejoinable opening,
such as a zipper, on the top and adjoining sides of the
compartment. The first external compartment can provide for storage
of various materials, such as pens, papers, computer disks, and the
like. Furthermore, the first external compartment can comprise a
plurality of specialized storage compartments such as an expandable
compartment, pen and pencil sleeves and a pocket member dimensioned
to secure memory disks for computers, pocket calculator, and other
small stationery items.
[0030] A second outside compartment is provided appropriately
padded for use as a storage compartment for a notebook or laptop
computer or like device. It is well known in the art to provide
such a compartment for securely and safely carrying a portable
computer so as to protect it and minimize shock to the device upon
impact if the case is mishandled and forcibly comes in contact with
a rigid object. An interior dividing wall is provided to separate
the second internal compartment from the other internal
compartments to insure that the notebook computer is protected from
items in the other internal compartments. Specifically, it is well
known in the art to provide sufficient padding and cushioning of
foam or like material on the interior surface of the second
internal compartment to prevent damage to the sensitive electronic
equipment carried in the compartment. The computer can be secured
in the second outside compartment by means of a fastening strap,
hook and loop fastening strap, cradle system, elastic member or
other like means known in the art. In addition, additional storage
space is provided in the second outside compartment for the storage
of other business related items or computer accessories.
[0031] A third internal compartment, intended for use as a storage
compartment for clothing and for other personal items, is provided
comprising an expansion gusset. A wrap-around zipper, or the like,
is provided to secure the third internal compartment in a collapsed
position. Thus, in the closed position (i.e., zippered), the
wrap-around zipper maintains the business case in a low profile
configuration thereby limiting the internal volume of the third
internal compartment so that only the expansion gusset is disposed
therein. In the open or un-zippered position, the wrap-around
zipper permits the expansion of the gusset thereby allowing the
expansion of the interior volume of the third internal compartment.
The interior volume of the third internal compartment is of
sufficient size, when expanded, to provide space for the storage of
overnight clothing and personal care products used during travel.
Specialized storage compartments can be disposed therein to allow
the user to neatly and efficiently store toiletries and the like. A
protected, waterproof compartment can be provided to prevent the
toiletries from leaking onto the items in the third internal
compartment or any of the internal compartments of the business
case. In addition, a plurality of elastic bands, buckle-type straps
or other retaining means that are well known in the art to
facilitate the packing of clothing items and personal toiletries
are optionally provided. Once the clothing is removed from the
business case, the overall size of the case can again be minimized
by securing the wraparound zipper, thereby, substantially reducing
the interior volume and re-establishing the low-profile
configuration of the business case. Access to the storage volume is
provided through one of the common interior adjoining sidewalls of
an adjacent compartment, as will be explained below.
[0032] A fourth outside compartment is provided comprising a
zippered second sidewall for enclosing a file folio therein. The
file folio, comprising a plurality of pockets, can be of the type
commonly used in the art for the storage of file folders, documents
and similar materials. The file folio can be attached in the
interior compartment of the business case in a permanent manner or
a removable manner. A plurality of release straps are provided and
affixed to the file folio and to the interior wall of the fourth
compartment. The release straps fastened by snaps, hook and loop
fasteners, a zipper, or the like, serve to maintain the low-profile
configuration. Upon opening of these straps, the file folio is
released from a soft interior dividing wall allowing access to the
interior of the central expandable volume of the third internal
compartment. The soft interior dividing wall is provided to isolate
the personal items from view when either the file folio or the
other of the adjacent internal compartments is opened. When access
to the interior of the third internal compartment is desired, the
zipper extending around three sides of the fourth outside
compartment is completely opened and the interior straps securing
the file folio in place are released, thereby allowing the file
folio to be moved away and for the two sections of the case to be
laid flat in a joined side-by-side position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] For a more complete understanding of the present invention,
reference is now made to the following drawings in which:
[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of
the business case with expandable internal for overnight clothing
shown in a low-profile closed configuration;
[0035] FIG. 2 is a side view of the preferred embodiment of the
present invention, as depicted in FIG. 1, wherein business case is
shown in a low-profile closed configuration;
[0036] FIG. 3 is a frontal view of the preferred embodiment of the
present invention, as depicted in FIG. 1, wherein the business case
is shown in a low-profile closed configuration with the closed
first internal compartment in the foreground;
[0037] FIG. 4 is a side view and cross-sectional cutaway of the
preferred embodiment of the present invention, as depicted in FIG.
1, wherein the business case is shown in a low-profile closed
configuration;
[0038] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of
the present invention wherein the business case is depicted in a
low-profile configuration with the fourth compartment file folio
unzippered and extended outward;
[0039] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of
the present invention wherein the business case is depicted in an
expanded configuration with the third internal compartment open
allowing for overnight clothing and toiletries to be situated and
stored therein;
[0040] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of
the business case with expandable internal for overnight clothing
shown in an expanded configuration;
[0041] FIG. 8 is a side view of the preferred embodiment according
to the present invention, as depicted in FIG. 7, wherein business
case is shown in an expanded closed configuration; and
[0042] FIG. 9 is a side view and cross-section cutaway of the
preferred embodiment according to the present invention as depicted
in FIG. 7, wherein the business case is shown in an expanded, but
closed configuration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0043] A further understanding of the present invention will be
obtained by reference to the preferred embodiment set forth in the
illustrations of the accompanying drawings. Although the
illustrated embodiment is merely exemplary of systems for carrying
out the present invention, both the organization and method of
operation of the invention, in general, together with the further
objectives and advantages thereof, may be more easily understood by
reference to the drawings and the following description. The
drawings are not intended to limit the scope of this invention,
which is set forth with particularity in the claims as appended or
as subsequently amended, but merely to clarify and exemplify the
invention.
[0044] As required, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the
present invention is disclosed herein. However, techniques and
structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied
in a wide variety of forms and modes, some of which may be quite
different from those in the disclosed preferred embodiment.
Consequently, the specific structural and functional details
disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that regard,
they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of
disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which
define the scope of the present invention. The following presents a
detailed description of a preferred embodiment (as well as some
alternative embodiments) of the present invention.
[0045] Referring first to FIG. 1, depicted is a perspective view of
the preferred embodiment of the business case 100 with expandable
internal compartment for overnight clothing shown in a low-profile
closed configuration. The housing structure of the business case
100 is provided including a first sidewall 104 and an opposing
second sidewall 106, each sidewall being fixedly attached to a
lower panel 108 and an opposing upper panel 110, a first side panel
112 and an opposing second side panel 114 to form said business
case 100. First sidewall 104 and second sidewall 106 are attached
to lower panel 108, upper panel 110, first side panel 112 and
second side panel 114 by common methods known in the art for
attaching the materials together, such as stitching. Further, a
plurality of fastening means such as a zipper or buttons are
provided for allowing the user to access the internal compartment
of the business case and allowing the user to subsequently rejoin
the members of the business case after opening each compartment of
the business case.
[0046] A first external compartment 116 is provided which is
slightly expandable and serves a variety of functions. First
compartment 116 is internally separated from the rest of the
internal compartments of the case. Access to first external
compartment 116 can be by a flap, or by a rejoinable opening, such
as a zipper, on the top side of the first internal compartment.
Other storage compartments can be attached to the exterior side
walls for storing a cell phone, billfold or other special-purpose
business and personal articles.
[0047] A second outside compartment 118 is provided and
appropriately padded for use in stowing a notebook computer or like
device. Access to second compartment 118 can be provided by any
type of rejoinable means such as zippers, which are commonly used
in the art.
[0048] A third internal compartment 120, or clothing storage
compartment, is provided comprising an expansion gusset for the
storage of overnight clothing and a wrap-around zipper or like
device that is provided to secure the gusset in third internal
compartment 120. When in the closed position, the wrap-around
zipper maintains the business case in a low profile configuration
thereby limiting the internal volume of third internal compartment
120 to the point where only the expansion gusset is disposed
therein. When the zipper is in the open position, thereby providing
an increase in storage volume of the third internal compartment
120.
[0049] A fourth external compartment 122 is provided for enclosing
a file folio. The inner sidewall is attached to the file folio by
means of a zipper, button snap, hook and loop fastener, or the
like. The file folio, comprising a plurality of pockets can be of
the type commonly used in the art for the storage of documents and
related materials. Furthermore, a plurality of release straps are
provided and affixed within the fourth internal compartment 122.
The release straps may be fastened by snaps, hook and loop
fasteners, zipper or the like to further maintain the low-profile
configuration. Upon unfastening the release snaps, the file folio
is released from a soft interior dividing wall allowing access to
the central expanded volume of the third internal compartment. The
soft interior dividing wall is provided to isolate the personal
items from the file folio when the third internal compartment 120
is opened.
[0050] Handle straps 124 are provided for carrying the business
case. Handle straps 124 can be made of material commonly used in
the art such as vinyl, nylon, canvas, leather or the like. In
addition, handle straps 124 may be attached to the business case by
any means commonly known in the art so that they become an integral
part of the business case.
[0051] In a preferred embodiment, attachment rings 126 are provided
and fitted to opposite ends of the business case. Attachment clips
affixed to a shoulder strap (not shown) can be clipped onto
attachment rings 126 providing the user an alternate manner for
carrying the business case. The shoulder strap can further include
a shoulder pad fitted along an intermediate portion of shoulder
strap. Additional means for carrying the case can be provided in
the construction of the present invention. For example, a
wheel-type mechanism may be provided for rolling the business case.
In addition, extendable handle means may be provided to facilitate
the rolling of the business case across a surface.
[0052] Turning next to FIG. 2, there is depicted a side view of the
preferred embodiment according to the present invention wherein
business case 100 is shown in a low-profile closed configuration.
Business case 100 includes a first sidewall 104 opposing a second
sidewall 106, each sidewall being fixedly attached to a lower panel
108 and an opposing upper panel 110, a first side panel and an
opposing second side panel complete the case. The first sidewall
104 and second sidewall 106 are attached to lower panel 108, upper
panel 110, first side panel and second side panel by methods known
in the art for attaching the materials together. Further, a
plurality of fastening means such as a zipper or hook and loop
fasteners are provided for allowing the user to access the internal
compartments and to subsequently rejoin the wall or flap members of
the business case 100.
[0053] In FIGS. 1 and 3, the third internal compartment 120 is
collapsed (i.e., zippered) and is depicted in an un-expanded
configuration, providing the low-profile configuration of business
case 100. As described above, the third internal compartment 120,
or clothing storage compartment, comprises an expansion gusset for
the storage of overnight clothing. A wrap-around zipper or like
device is provided to secure the third internal compartment 120. In
the closed position (i.e., zippered), the wrap-around zipper
maintains the business case in a low profile configuration thereby
limiting the internal volume of the third internal compartment to
the point where only the expansion gusset is disposed therein. In
the open position (i.e., un-zippered), as illustrated in FIGS. 6-9,
the wraparound zipper permits expansion of the gusset allowing an
increase in the storage volume of the third internal compartment.
It will be understood that the volume of the clothing storage
compartment and the respective gussets can be of any desired size.
The drawings depict a relatively large compartment for purposes of
illustration only, and the compartment can be of any desired
smaller volume. Accordingly, the interior volume of the third
internal compartment 120 is of sufficient size, when expanded, to
allow for the storage of overnight clothing for short-term travel.
Once the clothing is removed from the business case, the overall
size of the case can be minimized by securing the wraparound
zipper, thereby, substantially limiting interior volume and
re-establishing the low-profile configuration of the business case
100. On the opposite side of the third compartment is fourth
external compartment 122 enclosing a file folio comprising a
plurality of pockets of the type commonly used in the art for the
storage of documents and related materials.
[0054] With reference to FIG. 3, business case 100 is shown in a
low-profile collapsed configuration with the closed first optional
external compartment 106 in the foreground. Handle straps 124 are
provided for carrying the business case and can be attached to the
business case by any means commonly known in the art, such as
stitching, riveting or the like so that handle straps 124 become an
integral part of business case 100.
[0055] Turning next to FIG. 4, depicted is a side view and
cross-sectional cutaway of a preferred embodiment of the present
invention wherein the business case 100 is shown in a low-profile
closed configuration. First sidewall 104 and opposing second
sidewall 106 are attached to lower panel 108 and opposing upper
panel 110, a first side panel in the foreground and an opposing
second side panel to form said business case 100. First compartment
116 is provided which is slightly expandable and serves a variety
of functions. First internal compartment 116 is internally
separated from the rest of the internal compartments of the
business case 100 by an internal wall 404. An expandable
compartment, pen and pencil sleeves 402 and a pocket member
dimensioned to secure memory disks or compact disks for computers
can be provided.
[0056] Second outside compartment 118 is provided and appropriately
padded for use as a notebook computer or like device storage
compartment. An interior dividing wall 400 is provided to separate
the second compartment 118 from first compartment 116. A second
interior dividing wall 404 is provided to separate second
compartment 118 from third internal compartment 120. Furthermore, a
plurality of dividing structures 406 can be affixed within the
second compartment to separate the sensitive electronic devices
from the rest of the items stored herein. An interior cradle system
408 is provided to support the electronic equipment stored in the
second internal compartment. A notebook computer can be secured
within the second compartment 118 by means of fastening strap, hook
and loop fasteners strap, elastic member or other means known in
the art. Additional storage space 410 can be provided within the
second internal compartment 118 for the storage of other business
related items or computer accessories.
[0057] A third internal compartment 120, or clothing storage
compartment, is provided comprising an expansion gusset 412 for the
storage of overnight clothing. A wrap-around zipper or other means
is provided to secure the gusset in a collapsed condition in the
third internal compartment. Upon opening the zipper, expansion
gusset 412 expands to provide the increased interior volume for
third internal compartment 120. Expansion gusset 412 can be made of
any suitable material used in the art; however, it has been found
that fabric materials such as nylon blends are satisfactory and
accepted by consumers. The interior volume of the third internal
compartment is of sufficient size, when expanded, to allow for the
storage of clothing and/or other personal items required for
short-term travel.
[0058] A fourth external compartment 122 is provided comprising a
zippered second sidewall for enclosing a file folio 412 therein.
The file folio can be expanded upon the opening of fourth internal
compartment 122. A three-sided zipper or like device is provided to
secure fourth compartment 122 in the closed position.
[0059] Referring next to FIG. 5, the business case 100 is shown in
a low-profile configuration with the fourth compartment 122
unzippered and file folio 414 extended outwardly. File folio 414
can be permanently or removably attached to the interior
compartment of the fourth internal compartment 122 of the business
case. A plurality of release straps 506 are provided for attaching
the file folio 414 to a soft interior dividing wall 504 to separate
the file folio 414 of the fourth external compartment 122 from
third internal compartment 120. The release straps 506 can be
fastened by snaps, hook and loop fasteners, zippers or the like to
further maintain the low-profile configuration. Upon unfastening
the release snaps 502, the user can gain access to the central
expanded volume of the third interior compartment. In addition,
affixed within the third internal compartment 120 are a plurality
of elastic bands, buckle-type straps or other like retaining means
506 that are well known in the art to facilitate the packing of
clothing items and personal toiletries.
[0060] Turning next to FIG. 6, the business case 100 is shown in an
expanded configuration with the third interior compartment 120 open
allowing for overnight clothing and toiletries to be placed and
secured therein. As previously explained, the wrap-around zipper is
opened allowing the expansion of gusset 412 to provide for the
increased interior volume in the third internal compartment 120.
Access to the third internal compartment 120 is through the fourth
compartment behind the file folio 414. A plurality of release
straps 506 are provided for attaching the file folio 414 to a soft
interior dividing wall 504. Upon unfastening the release snaps 502
of the soft interior dividing wall 504, the user can gain access to
the central expanded volume of the third interior compartment 120.
In addition, shown affixed within the third internal compartment
120 are a plurality of elastic bands, buckle-type straps or other
like retaining means 502 that are well known in the art to
facilitate the packing of clothing items and personal toiletries.
Additional specialized storage compartments can be located in the
third internal compartment 120 to allow the user to neatly and
efficiently store personal toiletries. Protected, waterproof
compartments can also be provided to prevent the toiletries from
leaking onto the items in third internal compartment 120 or any of
the other internal compartments of the business case.
[0061] Turning next to FIG. 7, depicted is a perspective view of
the preferred embodiment of the business case 100 with expandable
internal compartment for overnight clothing shown in an expanded
configuration. Housing structure 102 is provided including a first
sidewall 104 and opposing second sidewall 106, each sidewall being
fixedly attached to lower panel 108 and opposing upper panel 110,
first side panel 112 and opposing second side panel 114 to form
said business case 100. The relationship of the elements comprising
this embodiment are again clearly shown.
[0062] With reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, there are depicted side
views of the business case 100 of the invention in its expanded
configuration.
[0063] In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 9, the case 100 is
illustrated as containing the business and personal items as would
be typically required for an overnight business trip, including a
laptop or notebook computer in the first outside compartment 118,
papers in third outside file folio compartment 122, and clothing
and other personal items in third internal compartment 120.
[0064] While the present invention has been described with
reference to one or more preferred embodiments, which embodiments
have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of
providing a complete understanding of the invention, such
embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to be
limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of all aspects of
the invention. Further, it will be apparent to those of skill in
the art that numerous changes may be made in such details without
departing from the spirit and the principles of the invention. The
scope of the invention, therefore, shall be defined solely by the
following claims.
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