U.S. patent application number 10/209827 was filed with the patent office on 2003-01-02 for modular load bearing field support system.
Invention is credited to Smith, Patrick D..
Application Number | 20030000986 10/209827 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 21864911 |
Filed Date | 2003-01-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030000986 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Smith, Patrick D. |
January 2, 2003 |
Modular load bearing field support system
Abstract
A modular load bearing field support system having a waist belt,
a pair of shoulder straps, each of the shoulder straps having a
front end attached to the waist belt and a rear end attached to the
waist belt, and a middle section disposed between said front and
rear ends. A mounting track is attached to said waist belt, and a
spatula accessory support system is included for mounting an
accessory on the mounting track. The spatula system includes a flat
spatula attached to an accessory, with the spatula inserted between
the mounting track and the waist belt to attach the accessory to
waist belt. A long gun support system for conveniently and safely
carrying a firearm along with the load bearing support system is
described. Extension panels for carrying large loads on the support
system, as well as fabric noise-reduction and color variation
panels are also described.
Inventors: |
Smith, Patrick D.; (Golden,
CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DORSEY & WHITNEY, LLP
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT
370 SEVENTEENTH STREET
SUITE 4700
DENVER
CO
80202-5647
US
|
Family ID: |
21864911 |
Appl. No.: |
10/209827 |
Filed: |
July 22, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10209827 |
Jul 22, 2002 |
|
|
|
09707431 |
Nov 6, 2000 |
|
|
|
6431424 |
|
|
|
|
09707431 |
Nov 6, 2000 |
|
|
|
09032427 |
Feb 27, 1998 |
|
|
|
6152338 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
224/637 ;
224/627 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 3/04 20130101; A47C
9/10 20130101; F41C 33/046 20130101; A45F 3/14 20130101; A47C 4/52
20130101; F41C 33/005 20130101; Y10S 224/913 20130101; A47C 1/146
20130101; F42B 39/02 20130101; A01K 97/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/637 ;
224/627 |
International
Class: |
A45F 003/04 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A backpack comprising: a main body defining a cavity, the main
body having a front wall, a rear wall, a top wall, a bottom wall
and opposing sidewalls, and having a top portion and a bottom
portion; a pair of shoulder straps attached to the main body, each
extending generally from the top portion to the bottom portion of
the front wall; a left and right waist band portions attached to
the main body and extending forwardly of the front wall; a panel
extension having a top end and a bottom end, the panel extension
pivotally attached along a width of the bottom end; and a tie strap
extending from a portion of the main body to the top end of the
panel extension, the tie strap supporting the top end of the panel
extension from the main body.
2. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the panel extension is
pivotally attached to the bottom portion of the main body.
3. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the panel extension is
pivotally attached to the bottom wall of the main body.
4. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the panel extension is
releasably attached at two locations along the width of the bottom
end.
5. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the tie strap supports the top
end of the panel extension from the top portion of the main
body.
6. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the tie strap supports the top
end of the panel extension from at least one of the side walls of
the main body.
7. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the panel extension further
comprises a pair of side edges and a pair of aluminum stays
positioned along the pair of side edges.
8. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the tie strap is attached to
the main body via a three bar slider and a common loop attachment
structure.
9. The backpack of claim 8, where in the common loop comprises a
triangular loop.
10. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the panel extension is
moveable between a forwardly extended position, a rearwardly
extended position, and a collapsed position adjacent to the rear
wall of the main body.
11. A backpack as defined in claim 10, wherein: the panel extension
has a first side and a second side; and further comprising: a
fabric panel removably positioned on the second side of the panel
extension, wherein when the panel extension is in the collapsed
position, the first side is adjacent the main body and the second
covered side faces rearwardly, and when in the forwardly extended
position, the first side faces downwardly and the second covered
side faces rearwardly.
12. The backpack of claim 1, wherein the tie strap attaches to a
fabric brace attached to the panel extension.
13. The backpack of claim 12, wherein the fabric brace is offset
from a corner of the panel extension.
14. A backpack comprising: a main body defining a cavity, the main
body having a front wall, a rear wall, a top wall, a bottom wall
and opposing sidewalls, and having a top portion and a bottom
portion; a pair of shoulder straps attached to the main body, each
extending generally from the top portion to the bottom portion of
the front wall; a left and right waist band portions attached to
the main body and extending forwardly of the front wall; a panel
extension having a top end and a bottom end, the panel extension
pivotally attached to the bottom portion of the main body; and a
tie strap extending from a portion of the main body to the top end
of the panel extension, the tie strap supporting the top end of the
panel extension from the top portion of the main body.
15. The backpack of claim 14, wherein the panel extension is
pivotally attached to the bottom wall of the main body.
16. The backpack of claim 14, wherein the panel extension is
releasably attached at two locations along the bottom portion.
17. The backpack of claim 14, wherein the panel extension further
comprises a pair of side edges and a pair of aluminum stays
positioned along the pair of side edges.
18. The backpack of claim 14, wherein the panel extension is
moveable between a forwardly extended position, a rearwardly
extended position, and a collapsed position adjacent to the rear
wall of the main body.
19. A backpack as defined in claim 18, wherein: the panel extension
has a first side and a second side; and further comprising: a
fabric panel removably positioned on the second side of the panel
extension, wherein when the panel extension is in the collapsed
position, the first side is adjacent the main body and the second
covered side faces rearwardly, and when in the forwardly extended
position, the first side faces downwardly and the second covered
side faces rearwardly.
20. A load bearing field support system comprising: a waist belt; a
pair of shoulder straps, each of the shoulder straps having a front
end attached to the waist belt and a rear end attached to the waist
belt, and a middle section disposed between said front and rear
ends; a panel extension having a top end and a bottom end, the
panel extension pivotally attached at its bottom end to the waist
belt; and a tie strap extending from the shoulder straps to the top
end of the panel extension, the tie strap supporting the top end of
the panel extension from the shoulder strap.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Divisional of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/707,431 filed Nov. 6, 2000 which is a Divisional of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/032,427 filed Feb. 27,
1998.
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to a modular system for carrying
various gear on a person. More specifically, this invention relates
to a connection system that allows the modular application of
various cargo holders to specialized or generic backpacks or frame
harnesses.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Load bearing pack systems have been used for years in a
variety of roles, including hunting, expedition, camping, military
and police activities. The pack systems for each of these
activities have developed into specialized designs unique to the
particular activity. The pack systems for each activity have to
take into consideration several features and requirements specific
to each activity. Some of these features and requirements include
firearm transportation, camouflage, noise creation, and the need to
carry situation-specific accessories.
[0005] The primary means of carrying a shoulder arm, such as a
rifle, has been a shoulder sling. As firearm use has developed, the
shoulder sling has failed to keep up with the needs of modern
hunters, police, and military personnel. One reason is that a
shoulder sling positions the firearm in an awkward position on a
person's back. From this position, the firearm must be swung off
the shoulder, brought to the front of the body, and both hands must
be repositioned on the firearm before the firearm can be raised to
the shoulder for firing. Also, when a shoulder sling is used with
any sort of backpack, the positioning of the pack tends to push the
sling from the shoulder, especially during any type of brisk
movement. With certain types of packs, i.e., those with shoulder
lift features, the use of a shoulder sling carried on the shoulder
is very inconvenient if not impossible. Using a shoulder sling also
make it very difficult to crawl, or use both hands for climbing,
especially when combined with a backpack. In addition, the shoulder
sling also leaves the rifle unprotected on the user's back, making
it vulnerable to bumps and jolts, which can disrupt the optical
sighting device, or even more seriously damage the gun.
[0006] The use of a shoulder sling also places the entire load of
the firearm on the user's shoulder. As firearms become heavier (for
enhanced accuracy and reduced recoil), carrying them on a shoulder
sling can be uncomfortable, awkward and tiresome, especially when
combined with a backpack.
[0007] It is critical that both hands are kept free for full
freedom of use while keeping the firearm conveniently located for
quick use, protecting the optical sighting device, and especially
when used in combination with carrying other gear, such as in a
backpack.
[0008] With respect to load bearing systems, such as backpacks,
many are designed for a particular purpose in mind. For instance,
for hunting applications, most users have been limited to choosing
between a brightly colored or blaze orange backpack and a
camouflage backpack. A blaze orange backpack is undesirable where
concealment is needed, and camouflage backpack may be undesirable,
or illegal in certain hunting situations. Additionally, users have
been required to choose between stealth and durability, between
reduced noise and weatherproof performance. Backpacks made of
strong, weatherproof material such as nylon, are inherently noisy,
such as when contacted by foliage. Backpacks made of quiet
material, such as pile or fleece, have had to sacrifice durability
and foul-weather performance because these "quiet" materials are
not as strong or weatherproof as nylon.
[0009] The versatility of situation-specific accessories, such as
cargo platforms, seats, hand warmers, and add-on pouches have
served only a single function, which reduces the versatility of any
load carrying device. Certain of these features can be an
advantage, depending on the particular activity.
[0010] It is with the shortcomings of the prior art in mind that
the modular load bearing field support system of the present
invention has been developed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention includes a load bearing field support
system, which can be a specialized harness structure, as described
below, or a standard backpack type structure. The load bearing
field support system has many components and features which
overcome the aforementioned problems.
[0012] The present invention includes a load bearing field support
system having a waist belt, a pair of shoulder straps, each of the
shoulder straps having a front end attached to the waist belt and a
rear end attached to the waist belt, and a middle section disposed
between said front and rear ends. A mounting track is attached to
the waist belt, and a spatula accessory support system is included
for mounting an accessory on the mounting track. The spatula
accessory support system includes a flat spatula attached to an
accessory, with the spatula inserted between the mounting track and
the waist belt to attach the accessory to waist belt.
[0013] The present invention also includes a long gun support
system for supporting a firearm, having a buttstock and a barrel,
from a harness having a waist band and a shoulder strap, such as
the field support system described above. The long gun support
system includes a cradle defining a receptacle suspended from the
waist band, and a fastener attached to the shoulder strap above the
waist band wherein the cradle receives the buttstock and the
fastener receives the barrel.
[0014] The present invention also includes a backpack having a main
body defining a cavity, the main body having a front wall, a rear
wall, a top wall, a bottom wall and opposing sidewalls, and having
a top portion and a bottom portion. A pair of shoulder straps are
attached to the main body, each extending generally from the top
portion to the bottom portion of the front wall. Left and right
waist band portions are attached to the main body and extend
forwardly from the front wall. A panel extension is included which
has a top end and a bottom end, and is pivotally attached at its
bottom end to the bottom portion of the main body. A tie strap
extends from the top portion of the main body to the top end of the
panel extension. The tie strap supports the top end of the panel in
the various positions, such as extending forwardly of the back
pack, extending rearwardly of the back pack, and collapsing to
extend adjacent to the rear wall of the back pack.
[0015] The instant invention also entails a backpack including a
main body defining a cavity, the main body having a front wall, a
rear wall, a top wall, a bottom wall and opposing sidewalls, and
having a top portion and a bottom portion. A pair of shoulder
straps are attached to the main body, each extending generally from
the top portion to the bottom portion of the front wall. Left and
right waist band portions are attached to the main body and extend
forwardly of the front wall. A supplemental fabric panel is
included for covering the rear wall, and means for attaching the
fabric panel to the rear wall are included. The fabric panel
reduces noise created by contacting the rear wall during use.
[0016] The invention also contemplates a hand warmer for use on a
garment having laterally spaced members, the hand warmer including
a main body having a front wall, a rear wall, a top edge, opposing
side edges, and a bottom edge. A recess is formed between front and
rear walls, and an opening is formed in each side edge to allow
access to the recess. Fastening means are attached to the main body
at the intersection of each side edge with the top edge to suspend
the hand warmer between the two laterally spaced members.
[0017] The load bearing field support system of the present
invention described herein provides great flexibility in outfitting
the user. The multi-purpose harness with the spatula support system
allows the user to carry only what he desires, and in the
particular location as desired by the user. The long gun support
system as part of the overall support system, provides advantages
in carrying the long gun conveniently and safely, while keeping
both hands available for use. In addition, the extension panel, as
well as the quiet fabric panels, provide additional functionality
to the support system overall support system.
[0018] A more complete appreciation of the present invention and
its scope can be obtained from understanding the accompanying
drawings, which are briefly summarized below, the following
detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments of the
invention, and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a rear view of the harness portion of the load
bearing field support system of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the harness of FIG. 1, with
the shoulder straps separated from the waist belt.
[0021] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of a day bag component for use
with the harness of FIG. 1.
[0022] FIG. 3b is a series of figures showing the releasable
three-bar/common loop attachment mechanism.
[0023] FIG. 4a is a rear perspective view of a pouch component
including the spatula system for use with the harness of FIG.
1.
[0024] FIG. 4b is a rear perspective view of the pouch component of
FIG. 4a, showing details of the spatula system.
[0025] FIGS. 5a and b are rear perspective views of the attachment
of the pouch component of FIG. 4a to the waist belt of the harness
using the spatula system.
[0026] FIG. 5c is a section taken along the line 5c-5c of FIG.
5b.
[0027] FIGS. 6a and b are rear perspective views of a larger pouch
component using two spatula systems for attachment to the waist
belt of the harness.
[0028] FIG. 7a is a front perspective view of a shell carrier pouch
having two vertically spaced spatula systems attached thereto.
[0029] FIG. 7b is a rear perspective view of the shell carrier
pouch of FIG. 7a.
[0030] FIG. 7c is a front perspective view of the shell carrier
pouch of FIG. 7a, with a shell ejecting from an aperture.
[0031] FIG. 8a, b, c and show the long gun support system,
including the buttstock cradle and the barrel fastener, used with
the harness of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a representative section view of the spatula
system used with the buttstock cradle.
[0033] FIG. 10a is a front perspective view of a fly rod holder
attached to a waist belt using a spatula system.
[0034] FIG. 10b is a front perspective view of the fly rod holder
being adjusted for size.
[0035] FIG. 11a is a front perspective view of the spinning rod
holder having a spatula system.
[0036] FIG. 11b is the spinning rod holder of FIG. 11a showing a
spinning rod in dash.
[0037] FIG. 12a is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of
the buttstock cradle.
[0038] FIG. 12b shows the portions of the alternative embodiment of
the buttstock cradle assembled together.
[0039] FIG. 12c shows the attachment of the alternative embodiment
of the buttstock cradle to a generic waist belt of a load bearing
system.
[0040] FIG. 13a shows an alternative embodiment of the barrel
fastener for use on a generic shoulder strap.
[0041] FIG. 13b shows the alternative embodiment of the barrel
fastener holding a barrel.
[0042] FIG. 14a shows a backpack having the panel extension of the
present invention in the collapsed position.
[0043] FIG. 14b shows a backpack having the panel extension of the
present invention in the seat position, extending forwardly of the
backpack.
[0044] FIG. 14c shows a backpack having the panel extension of the
present invention in the cargo carrying position, extending
rearwardly of the backpack.
[0045] FIG. 15a shows a backpack having the fabric panel of the
present invention positioned thereon.
[0046] FIG. 15b shows the fabric panel being removed from the
backpack.
[0047] FIG. 15c shows the attachment mechanism for holding the
fabric panel on the backpack.
[0048] FIG. 16a shows a fabric panel for covering the panel
extension of FIGS. 14a-c.
[0049] FIG. 16b shows the corner attachment of the fabric panel on
the panel extension of FIG. 16a.
[0050] FIG. 17a shows the hand warmer feature of the present
invention suspended between the shoulder straps of the harness
shown in FIG. 1.
[0051] FIG. 17b shows the attachment mechanism for attaching the
hand warmer to the shoulder strap.
[0052] FIG. 17c shows one alternative to the attachment mechanism
for the hand warmer attachment.
[0053] FIG. 17d shows another alternative to the attachment
mechanism for the hand warmer attachment.
[0054] FIG. 18 shows a vest having a variety of the accessories of
the present invention mounted thereupon.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0055] The modular load bearing field support system of the present
invention includes the application of various cargo carriers to
either harness systems, specialized backpacks, or standard
backpacks. The support system is also contemplated to include the
application of various cargo carriers to vests, lumbar packs, or
other types of load bearing outerwear.
[0056] A support system 40 of the present invention is shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2. The support system is effectively a harness worn by
a user. The harness is a modular carry system that includes
attachment points for securing accessories, many of which are
described below. The harness includes a waist belt 42 in
conjunction with shoulder straps 44. The waist belt 42 is
preferably a padded elongated member having free ends, each end
having a matching releasable fastener, such as a quick-release
buckle 46. The quick-release buckle also includes a means for
adjusting the length of the waist belt 42, such as by extracting or
retracting excess waist belt length. The waist belt 42 fastens
around the waist of a user, and can be adjusted in length to fit
the waist of the particular user.
[0057] The waist belt 42 includes a plurality of attachment points
48 positioned along its top edge 50. The attachment points 48 are
used to secure either the shoulder straps 44 or other accessories
to the waist band 42. The attachment points 48 are preferably
common loop attachments, three-bar sliders, or ladder locks as
required for the particular application. A suitable ladder lock is
the standard Mojave.TM. Curved Release by National Molding.
[0058] A series of nylon webbing lengths 52 are attached to the
outside of the waist belt 42. The nylon webbing lengths 52 are
attached to the waist belt only at their opposing ends 54. The
nylon webbing lengths 52 are preferably positioned along the top
half 56 of the waist belt, for purposes described later. The nylon
webbing lengths can be positioned anywhere along the length of the
waist belt, such as on either side of the buckle 46 (over a user's
hips), or as two separate sections opposite the buckle. The nylon
webbing lengths 52 act as mounting tracks for various pieces of
gear, cargo and accessories, and as such are securely fastened to
the waist belt. The mounting tracks 52 should be relatively taut
between the opposing ends 54 attached to the waist belt. The
mounting tracks have a releasable fastener 58, such as Velcro.RTM.
material (either hook or loop, as desired) attached to the inner
surface of the mounting track 52 facing the waist belt 42.
Reference is made throughout to Velcro.RTM. fasteners. It is
contemplated that any hook and loop type releasable fastener can be
used, but for convenience, such fasteners are referred to as
Velcro.RTM. fasteners.
[0059] The shoulder straps 44 which attach to the waist belt 42 to
form the harness system 40 are two substantially identical shoulder
straps, each having padded shoulder sections 60, an
adjustable-length rear extension 62 from the shoulder section, and
an adjustable length front extension 64 from the shoulder section.
The rear extension 62 and front extension 64 are preferably nylon
webbing, and are adjustable by any known means from the padded
section, such as by a ladder lock. The rear extensions 62 are
positioned through a three-bar 66 slider and criss-cross before
attaching to the waist belt 42. The free rear ends 68 of the rear
extensions attach to the ladder lock attachment points 48 on the
waist belt 42. This adjustably anchors the shoulder straps 44 to
the rear of the waist belt 42. The free front ends 70 of the front
extension terminate in three bar sliders 72. These three-bar
sliders then fit length wise through the common loop 74 attachments
48 on the waist belt 42, and are retained in the common loop 74 so
they cannot be extracted without being oriented lengthwise to fit
back through the common loop 74. In this way the shoulder straps 44
are attached to the waist belt 42 to form the harness 40. The
common loop and three-bar slider attachment structure is described
in more detail with respect to FIG. 3b below.
[0060] Mounting tracks 76 are positioned on the shoulder straps 44,
preferably on the padded portion 60, to support attachment
structures 78, such as a three-bar slider having an
integrally-formed laterally extending common loop 80. The mounting
tracks 76 are analogous to those mounted on the waist belt 42. The
attachment structures 78, discussed in more detail below, allow
accessories to be attached to each strap 44 individually, or
between the shoulder straps 44. The harness 40 is light-weight,
simple to adjust, and can carry a variety of accessories attached
to the various attachment points 48, 78, as are described below.
The flexibility of the system allows the user to attach only the
desired gear. It is contemplated that the mounting tracks 52, 76
could be attached to the waist belt or shoulder strap, if proper,
of any load carrying device, including a backpack, vest or lumbar
pack. The benefits of the various features of the attachment system
described herein benefit all such applications.
[0061] One component for use with the harness 40 is a large pouch
80, or day bag, as shown in FIG. 3. The day bag is a receptacle
having a front wall 82, a rear wall 84, a bottom wall 86, a top
wall and opposing sidewalls 90. A zipper 92 extending between the
sidewalls 90 and over the top wall 88 allows access to the storage
cavity formed therein. The day bag 80 has two spaced fasteners 94
at the top of the rear wall 84, and two spaced fasteners 96 at the
bottom of the rear wall 84. The fasteners 94, 96 are preferably
fixed three-bar sliders attached at their middle bar to a length of
webbing, as shown in FIG. 3b. The top fasteners 94 attach to the
common loops 98 on the rear end of the padded section 60 of the
shoulder straps 44, and the bottom fasteners 96 attach to the
common loops 100 affixed to the waist belt. As shown in FIG. 3b,
the fixed three-bar sliders fit lengthwise through the loops, but
are then incapable of being retracted through the loops unless
properly oriented. This attachment structure can be used for many
releasable attachment needs, and is referred to hereinafter as the
three-bar/common loop attachment structure.
[0062] The day bag 80 described herein is one modular component
that is able to be easily attached to and disconnected from the
harness system 40 as desired by the user. When attached, and the
harness 40 is worn by a user, the day bag 80 rests on the user's
back and is supported by the shoulder straps 44 of the harness.
Other types of carrying bags or other accessories can also be
attached in this way to the harness 40.
[0063] The spatula attachment system 102 for securing articles to
the mounting tracks 52 on the waist belt 42 is described with
respect to FIGS. 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b and 5c. A pouch 104 incorporating
the spatula mounting system 102 is shown in FIG. 4a. The pouch 104
has outer walls defining an interior cargo space, and a zipper 106
opening on its top surface to allow closeable access to the cargo
space. It is anticipated that the pouch 104 could have any useable
shape and size as desired by the user for the intended purpose. The
spatula system 102 is attached to the rear wall 108 of the pouch
104, and includes a relatively thin and rigid spatula 110 attached
along a seam 112 (such as by sewing) at its upper end to the rear
wall adjacent the upper end of the pouch 104. The spatula 110 lays
against the rear wall 108 and can pivot about its attachment to the
rear wall (see FIG. 4b). The spatula 110 can have a square,
rectangular, or sloping profile as desired. Generally, the spatula
110 should be relatively wide side-to-side to support as much of
the cargo carrier as possible, and relatively thin front-to-back to
insert easily into the waist belt 42, as noted below. Two laterally
spaced spatulas can be used on one cargo carrier if the cargo
carrier is relatively long in the dimension supported by the waist
belt, as shown in FIG. 6.
[0064] A first securing strap 114 is fixed to the lower end of the
outer side of the spatula, and a second securing strap 116 is
affixed to the top end of the inner side of the spatula 110. A
Velcro.RTM. fastener portion 118 (opposite to that attached to the
inside of the mounting track) is affixed to the top end of the
inner side of the spatula 110 also, and extends across
substantially the entire width of the spatula. A common loop
fastener 120 is attached to the bottom of the rear wall of the
pouch.
[0065] The spatula system 102 allows the attachment of the pouch
104 to the waist belt 42 in a convenient, well-supported and secure
manner. As shown in FIGS. 5a, 5b, and 5c, the spatula 110 is
inserted between the mounting track 52 and the waist belt 42 such
that the mounting track 52 engages the attachment seam 112 between
the top of the spatula 110 and the pouch 104. The Velcro.RTM.
portion 58 affixed to the inside face of the mounting track 52
engages the opposite Velcro.RTM. portion 118 attached to the inside
face of the spatula 110 to help secure the spatula 110 in place on
the mounting track. The spatula 110 will thus not likely move along
the length mounting track 52, even during vigorous activity. In
addition, to provide additional stability and security, the first
securing strap 114 extends through the common loop 120 and back up
between the spatula 110 and the pouch 104 to engage the second
securing loop 116 to form an interlocked Velcro.RTM. connection.
This helps insure, along with the engagement of the spatula 110 and
the mounting track 52, that the spatula 110 does not accidentally
disconnect from the mounting track 52. See FIGS. 5a and 5c. It is
contemplated that engagement by the spatula 110 alone with the
mounting track 52 is sufficient to support and securely attach a
cargo carrier 104 to the waist belt 42. The additional position
stabilizing structure provides enhanced benefits, but are not
required to be used. The position of the mounting track 52 on the
top half 56 of the belt 42 allows the bottom of the spatula 110 to
rest on the waist belt 42 to further stabilize the position of the
pouch 104 on the waist belt 42.
[0066] The spatula mounting system 102 allows the user to
conveniently and securely mount the desired type of cargo carrier
to the waist belt 42 at the desired location. The spatula system
102 spreads the load of the cargo carrier along the length of the
spatula 110 (such as along the length of the seam attaching the
spatula to the cargo carrier) to provide better load distribution
and load stability. The cargo carrier is thus easily removed or its
position adjusted by the user. The spatula 110 can be used to
attach a variety of components to the waist belt.
[0067] As noted above, where a cargo carrier 122 is relatively long
in the dimension to be supported by the mounting track 52, more
than one spatula 110 may be used to sufficiently support and
securely attach the cargo carrier 114 to the mounting track 52. An
elongated cargo carrier 122 is shown in FIGS. 6a and 6b which
requires the use of two laterally spaced spatulas 110, each having
the same structure as described above with respect to FIGS. 5a, 5b
and 5c. The elongated cargo carrier 122 is adequately secured to
and supported on the mounting track 52 by the two spatula
systems.
[0068] FIGS. 7a, 7b and 7c show the application of the spatula
mounting system 102 on a cargo carrier 124 having an elongated
dimension orthogonal to the length of the mounting track 52. The
shotgun shell dispenser has two vertically spaced spatula systems
102 attached to its rear face. If the dispenser is to be carried on
the waist belt 42, only one of the spatula systems would be used to
attach to the mounting track 52. Where the shell dispenser 124 is
required to be supported securely along its length, such as when it
is worn on a vest in a police or military operation, both of the
two vertically spaced spatula systems 102 can be employed. This
requires that the support structure, such as the vest, have two
vertically spaced mounting tracks 52 for the two vertically spaced
spatula systems to be affixed to, as described above.
[0069] The shell dispenser 124 of the present invention is unique
in its storage and mode of dispensing shells. The dispenser 124 has
an elongated, vertically oriented, rectangular body defining an
interior cavity. The dispenser 124 has a front wall 126, a rear
wall 128, two opposing sidewalls 130, a bottom wall 132, and a pair
of overlapping flaps 134, 136 forming the top wall. The dispenser
124 is dimensioned to have a side-to-side width sufficient to hold
a shot gun shell lengthwise, a front-to-back depth sufficient to
hold a shotgun shell widthwise, and a top-to-bottom length to hold
a plurality of shotgun shells stacked side-by-side on one another.
The two overlapping flaps 134, 136 of the top wall secure to one
another, such as by a Velcro.RTM. fastener, to allow access to the
interior cavity. A dispensing port 138 is formed at the lower end
of one of the sidewalls 130. The dispensing port 138 defines an
aperture having four sides 140, 142, 144, 146, three of which are
made of the material of the dispenser, and are relatively fixed in
length. The fourth side 146 is made of a resilient material that
can change dimension and return to its original dimension, such as
elastic. The dispensing port 138 is smaller than the outer
dimension of the shotgun shell.
[0070] The shells are positioned in the dispenser 124 such that the
primer end is adjacent the side having the dispensing port 138. As
seen in FIG. 7a, the end of the bottom most shell is substantially
covered only around its perimeter by three of the four sides 140,
142, 146, of the dispensing port 138, one of which is the resilient
wall 146. To dispense a shell, the user grasps the opposite end of
the bottom-most shell through the front 126 and rear dispenser
walls 128 and pinches the walls to push the shell towards the
dispensing port 138. As the primer end of the shell is pushed
through the dispensing port, the resilient wall 146 stretches to
allow the shell to exit the port, as shown in FIG. 7c. The user
then grasps the shell and pulls it the rest of the way out of the
dispensing port 138. The resilient wall 146 then returns to its
normal position, such as in FIG. 7a or 7b. The rest of the shells
in the dispenser 124 shift downwardly to set up the next shell
adjacent to the dispensing port 138. Unless the shell is forced
through the dispenser port 138 to deform the resilient wall 146,
the resilient wall is sufficiently sturdy to keep the shells from
exiting the dispenser port 138. The shell dispenser 124 is designed
to hold a plurality of shells, for instance 12.
[0071] FIGS. 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, and 9 show another component, a
long-gun support system 148, which utilizes a cradle 150 attached
to the spatula system 102 to support the long gun 152 from the
waist belt 42, and a barrel fastener 154 to releasably attach the
barrel to the shoulder strap 44. The cradle 150 is made of nylon
webbing which forms a receptacle 156 and holds the buttstock of the
long gun 152 (such as a rifle or shot gun). As best shown in FIG.
8b, the cradle receptacle includes a support member 158 attached to
the spatula system 102, the support member 158 forming the backbone
of the cradle 150. Two opposing side members 160 extend outwardly
and downwardly from the support member 158. The two opposing side
members 160 curve forwardly and attach together in front of and
spaced away from the support member 158 forming a loop 162. The
opposing side members 160 attach together at a point below where
they attach to the support member 158. This allows for easier
removal of the buttstock from the cradle 150. The support member
158 forms the bottom 164 of the cradle by extending downwardly and
then curving upwardly to meet and attach to the ends of the side
members 160. The cradle 150 holds the generally wedge-shaped
buttstock of the firearm securely. A buttstock can be removed from
the cradle 150 by being moved upwardly. It is very difficult to
remove the buttstock from the cradle 150 in any other direction.
Since the cradle 150 is preferably made of webbing or other such
material, it conforms to different sizes and shapes of
buttstocks.
[0072] The support member 158 of the cradle is attached to the
spatula system 102 as shown in FIGS. 8b and 9. For use with the
cradle 150, the spatula system 102 includes a ladder lock 163
attached to the top of the spatula 110. The support member 158 of
the cradle 150 adjustably engages the ladder lock 162 so as to hang
from the ladder lock, and thus from the spatula 110. The first 114
and second 116 security straps are attached on the spatula 110 as
described above, as is the Velcro.RTM. portion. A protective flap
166 is attached to the spatula 48 to hang over the ladder lock 162
to protect the buttstock from being scratched by the ladder lock
162.
[0073] In attaching the cradle 150 to the waist belt 42 of the
harness 40, as shown in FIG. 9, the spatula 110 is inserted between
the mounting track 52 and the waist belt 42, as described above
with the spatula system 102, and the first 114 and second 116
security straps are fastened together. In use with the gun cradle
150, the first 114 and second 116 security straps do not attach
through a loop on the cradle 150 as the earlier security straps
attach through a common loop on the pouch. Nonetheless, the
security straps 114, 116 securely fix the spatula 150 to the waist
belt 42. The buttstock is then placed in the cradle 150, preferably
with the trigger facing forwardly (to the right in FIG. 8a). The
weight of the long gun 152 is thus suspended from the waist belt
42, and thus the user's waist and hips, by the spatula system 102.
The lateral position of the cradle 150 is secure when on the
mounting track 52. The cradle 150 can be positioned anywhere along
the mounting track 52 to adjust for waist size. The cradle 150 can
be moved upwardly or downwardly with respect to the waist belt 42
by extending or retracting the support member 158 in the ladder
lock 163 on the spatula system 102. This helps adjust the position
of the cradle 150 according to the length of the long gun 152. An
additional mounting track 168 can be positioned on the front of the
cradle 150 to support another cargo carrier 170 (such as a
cartridge case) using the spatula system 102.
[0074] In addition to the cradle 150, the long gun support system
148 includes a barrel fastener 154 to releasably attach the barrel
to the shoulder strap 44 while the buttstock is in the cradle. See.
FIG. 8c. The barrel fastener 154 includes an elongated flexible
main member 172 with opposing ends. A quick-release cam lock buckle
fastener 174 is fixed to one end of the main member 172, and the
other end of the main member is free. A suitable cam lock buckle
fastener 174 is the Fix Lock.RTM. 825 by Illinois Toolworks, Inc.
of Chicago, Ill. The free end of the main member 172 can be
releasably secured in the quick-release cam lock fastener 174, and
is also adjustable in length to surround differently sized barrels.
The barrel fastener 154 is released by simply grasping the free end
of the main member 172 and pulling to release the quick-release
fastener 174. The barrel of the firearm 152 is then disconnected
from the shoulder strap 44 and can be grasped by the same or
different hand.
[0075] The barrel fastener 154 is attached to the shoulder strap 44
by a tail 176 member. The tail 176 is affixed to and extends
upwardly from the main member 172 of the barrel fastener 154. The
top end of the tail 176 has a folded over portion 178 which is sewn
to itself, forming a seam. The barrel fastener 154 is positioned on
the shoulder strap 44 of the harness 40 by inserting the tail 176
into the three-bar slider 78 positioned on the mounting track 76
attached to the shoulder strap 44 (See FIG. 2.) The folded over top
portion 178 of the tail acts as a mechanical jam member in the
three-bar slider 78 and thus resists the removal of the tail 176
therefrom. Relatively less up/down force is applied to the
three-bar slider 78 by the barrel fastener 154 because most forces
are laterally directed, and as such the three-bar slider 78 is not
likely to move appreciably up and down the mounting track 76 when
the barrel fastener 154 is in use.
[0076] In using the long gun support system 148, the cradle 150 is
attached to the spatula 110, and the spatula is attached to the
mounting track 52 on the waist belt 34, as described above.
Preferably, the spatula 110 is applied adjacent to or just in front
of the hip of the user. The barrel fastener 154 is attached to the
shoulder strap 44 on the same side of the harness 40 as the cradle
150. The cradle 150 can be vertically adjusted to accommodate the
length of the long gun. The buttstock is inserted into the cradle
150 with the trigger facing forward. The barrel of the gun is
releasably secured to the shoulder strap 44 by the barrel fastener
154. In this manner, the long gun is supported from the waist belt
42 of the harness 40, and held closely along the user's body by the
barrel fastener 154. This allows the user to keep both hands free
for climbing, working or any other purpose. The long gun support
system 148 also allows the firearm to remain handy even when using
a load supporting system having a shoulder strap 44 like the
harness 40. The optical sighting device on the firearm, if any, is
positioned under the user's arm in a relatively protected location.
The long gun support system allows a user to carry support gear in
the day bag on the harness (with shoulder straps) while at the same
time carrying a long gun. The system allows all this in a manner
that is comfortable, protects the long gun, and keeps the long gun
ready for immediate use. The long gun is thus carried more
securely, safely and in a more accessible location.
[0077] The long gun support system also allows the firearm to be
quickly removed from the support system and shouldered. The user
simply releases the quick-release fastener 174 (left hand per FIG.
8a), and grasps the buttstock with one hand (right hand per FIG.
8a) and then the barrel with the other (left hand per FIG. 8a). The
user lifts the rifle slightly upwardly to remove the buttstock from
the cradle 150, and then shoulder's the firearm. There are
different manners by which the firearm can be released from the
support system, but each requires the release of the barrel
fastener 154 and slightly lifting the firearm to remove it from the
cradle 150.
[0078] Other long items that are often carried while hunting,
hiking or backpacking can be carried with a similar support
structure. FIGS. 10a, 10b and 11a, and 11b show structures used for
carrying fly rods 178 (FIGS. 10a and 10b) and spinning rods 180
(FIG. 11b). As shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b, a fly rod 178 is
supported from a spatula system 102. The only difference between
the fly rod 178 system and the long gun support system 148 is that
the cradle is replaced by a padded, cylindrical receptacle 182
having adjustable cylindrical sidewalls, an open top and a base.
The end of the fly rod, including the reel, is inserted into the
receptacle 182. The receptacle is sized, using releasable fasteners
184, such as Velcro.RTM., to overlap more or less of the receptacle
wall to create the right size (FIG. 10b). The end of the rod and
reel 178 are securely held in place in the receptacle 182. The top
end of the rod is held in place by the barrel fastener 154 as
described above with respect to the gun barrel. In this manner the
fly rod 178 and reel are securely supported on the waist belt 42 of
the harness, and secured along the body of the user by attaching to
the shoulder strap 44, which gives the user the same advantages as
denoted previously. The rod 178 is released from the fly rod
support system in the identical manner as noted for the long
gun.
[0079] A support system for a spinning rod 180 is shown in FIG. 11
and 11b. In this case, the cradle 150 of the long gun support
system 148 is replaced by a cylindrical spin rod receptacle 186
having an open top, a cylindrical sidewall and a base. The end of
the spin rod 180 is inserted into the spin rod receptacle 186, with
the reel extending outwardly from the pole above the receptacle
186. Preferably, the receptacle 186 is frustoconical in shape to
guide or even wedge the end of the spin rod 180 therein for a
secure fit. The top end of the spinning rod is held in place by the
barrel fastener 154 as described above. In this manner the spinning
rod 180 is securely supported on the waist belt 42 of the harness
40, and secured along the body of the user by attaching to the
shoulder strap 44, which gives the user the same advantages as
denoted previously. The rod is released from the spin rod support
system in the identical manner as noted for the long gun.
[0080] A long gun support system 148 was described above for
applications on a harness having the required mounting track 52 for
the spatula system 102. Another embodiment of the instant
invention, as shown in FIGS. 12a, 12b, 12c, 13a and 13b, allows the
long gun support system 190, including the gun cradle 150 and the
barrel fastener 154, to be used on backpacks and load bearing
systems not including the mounting tracks 52. The gun cradle 150 in
FIG. 12a, b and c is identical to that described earlier. Instead
of using a spatula system, however, the gun cradle 150 is supported
from the padded waist belt 192 of a generic backpack by a universal
attachment strap 194 having a ladder lock 196 affixed thereto for
securing the support member 158 of the cradle 150 (as discussed
above), as shown in FIG. 12b. The universal attachment strap 194 is
a flexible elongated nylon webbing with Velcro.RTM. fastener
attached to one side, and the opposite Velcro.RTM. fastener
attached to the opposite side. The strap could be Velcro.RTM.
alone. The attachment strap 194 is wrapped around the waist belt
192 at the desired location (such as adjacent the user's hip), and
the strap 194 fastened thereto by the Velcro.RTM., see FIG. 12c.
The attachment strap 194 is attached tightly enough to minimize any
lateral, vertical or rotational movement of the attachment strap
194 along the waist belt 192. The length of the attachment strap
194 is relatively longer for a padded waist belt 192, and
relatively shorter for an unpadded waist belt (not shown). The
cradle 150 thus functions identically to that described above
utilizing the spatula system.
[0081] The barrel fastener 198 is substantially similar to that
described above, except that instead of a tail extending from the
main member, a Velcro.RTM. attachment loop 200 extends therefrom to
secure around a generic shoulder strap 202 that does not have the
three-bar slider or the mounting track. See FIG. 13a. The
attachment loop 200 fastens around the shoulder strap 202 at the
desired location. Since little vertical load is placed on the
barrel fastener 198, the attachment loop 200 does not slide
appreciably up or down the shoulder strap 202. The quick-release
fastener 204 is again used to releasably secure the gun barrel as
described above. The operation to remove the firearm from the
embodiment of the long gun support system is identical to that
described above. Using this embodiment of the long gun support
system in conjunction with any type of backpack tends to stabilize
and secure the long gun, especially during any type of brisk
movement. The gun is in front of the shoulder, and thus there is
relatively no interference with the "shoulder lift" feature found
on some backpacks.
[0082] Similar universal attachment systems can be used to attach
the fly rod and spinning rod support systems to a backpack or load
bearing system that does not include the mounting track (and thus
cannot use the spatula system), all with the same benefit as
earlier described.
[0083] Another feature of the instant invention includes the use of
a semi-rigid multi-purpose panel 206 extension pivotally attached
to the bottom of a backpack 208 and supported by tie-straps 210
from the top of the backpack. See FIGS. 14a, 14b and 14c. The panel
extension 206 can be oriented to extend substantially orthogonally
in front of the pack 208 for use as a seat. Alternatively, the
panel extension 206 can be oriented to extend substantially
orthogonally behind the pack 208 for use as a cargo carrier to haul
out large objects, such as game. In each orientation, the panel
extension 206 is supported by tie straps 210 extending to the upper
sides of the backpack 208. In the travel mode, or the collapsed
position, the panel extension 206 can be folded up to lie adjacent
to the rear wall of the backpack 208, and secured there by
shortening the tie straps 210.
[0084] In more detail, the extension 206 is a rectangularly shaped
padded flat panel having aluminum stays 212 along its side edges
for improved strength and stability. The bottom edge 214 of the
panel is attached at least in two places along its width dimension
to the bottom 216 of the backpack 208. The attachment is by a three
bar slider/common loop attachment structure 217 that acts as a
hinge to allow the panel to flip from extending forwardly to
extending rearwardly, and to extending upwardly to lie against the
backpack.
[0085] Tie straps 210 extend from the top of each side of the
backpack 208 to the corresponding corner of the free end 220 (top
end) of the panel. See FIGS. 14b and 14c. The upper end of the tie
straps 210 can be attached to the backpack 208 at any location
sufficient to provide the proper support to the panel extension
206. Preferably, the tie straps 210 are positioned high enough on
the pack 208 to securely hold the panel 206 in the collapsed
position, discussed below. The top end of the tie straps 210 are
respectively attached to the backpack using the three-bar/common
loop attachment structure 218. Preferably in this case the common
loop 222 attached to the backpack is triangular in shape to more
securely hold the three-bar slider. The bottom end of each tie
strap is secured to the respective corner 224 of the panel 206
through a tension lock buckle 226, 210, or any other attachment
structure that allows the strap to be fixed in position, yet be
adjusted when so required. The tension lock (ladder lock) buckle
226 is attached to the panel by a fabric brace 228, preferably
offset from the corners. By shortening the tie straps through the
tension lock buckle 226, the panel 206 can be pulled into the
collapsed position to lie against the rear wall of the backpack
208. See FIG. 14a. By loosening the tie straps 210 in the tension
lock buckle 226, the panel 206 can be positioned to extend
orthogonally from the rear of the backpack 208. In this position
the panel 206 acts as a freight shelf so that large objects can be
supported by the panel when the backpack is being worn. The panel
206 supports the large items outside of the backpack 208 so as to
not contaminate the contents of the backpack. The panel 206 could
also extend at an angle downwardly or upwardly from the rear of the
backpack 208 as desired by adjusting the length of the tie strap
210 in the tension lock buckle 226.
[0086] The panel can extend from the front of the backpack 208 (see
FIG. 14b) to act as a chair. The panel 206 is either disconnected
from the tie straps 210, or the tie straps are lengthened to their
maximum length and the panel swung under the pack 208 to extend
forwardly from the front of the backpack. The tie straps 210
connect the panel to the pack to allow a user to sit on the panel
and lean back on the backpack.
[0087] In an additional embodiment, the panel extension 206 can be
mounted on the support system of FIGS. 1 and 2. The tie straps are
attached at their upper ends to the shoulder straps, and at the
bottom ends to the top end of the panel. The bottom end of the
panel is pivotably attached to the back of the waist belt in a
similar manner to that described above for attaching it to the
backpack.
[0088] Another feature of the instant invention is the reversible
and removable noise reduction system. Walking through brush or
trees can create loud noises as the foliage contacts the backpack
material. The application of fabric panels to the major exterior
surfaces of the backpack drastically reduces the noise from foliage
contact. FIGS. 15a, 15a and 15c show an embodiment of the fabric
panel 230 applied to the exterior of a backpack 232 to obtain the
noise reduction benefit.
[0089] In FIG. 15a, a backpack 232 is shown having a main body 234
defining an internal cavity, shoulder straps 236, and waist band
238. The main body 234 has a rear surface 210 having opposing side
edges 242, and which may include grommets 244 for holding a bungee
cord attachment structure. A fabric panel 230 is applied to the
rear surface 240, and is attached along its side edges 246 to the
corresponding side edges 242 of the rear surface 240 of the
backpack 232.
[0090] The fabric panel 230 can be made of any soft, non-snagging
fabric, such as Polarfleece.RTM. fabric, manufactured by Malden
Mills. The panel 230 has finished edges to avoid unraveling or
other type of contact damage. The fabric panel 230 is releasably
attached along the side edges 242 of the backpack. One such means
to attach the panel 230 is by a sandwich of Velcro.RTM. fasteners,
as shown in FIG. 15c. The fabric panel 230 defines two flaps 250,
252 extending along each vertical side edge 246, with the inner
faces of each flap 250, 252 having a hook or loop Velcro.RTM.
fastener portion attached thereto. The vertical edges 242 of the
rear surface 240 of the backpack 232 each have a single flap 254
extending therefrom, preferably continuously, with the opposite
hook or loop Velcro.RTM. fabric fastener portion attached to the
opposite sides thereof. The two flaps 250, 252 on either edge 246
of the fabric panel 230 engage both sides of the single flap 254 on
both edges 246 of the backpack 232 to securely position the fabric
panel 230 on the backpack. The panel 230, so secured, is not
difficult to accidentally remove from the backpack.
[0091] The fabric panel can have slits 256 formed therein, see FIG.
14b, to facilitate the positioning of the panel 230 over the
grommets or other features on the rear surface 240 of the backpack
232 that are desired to be accessible when the fabric panel 230 is
applied.
[0092] The fabric panel 230 is multi-functional. It not only
reduces noise levels, but also can change the color and thus
customize the backpack for different uses. The fabric panels can
have different color combinations or designs on either side so that
when reversed the panel converts from one desired color to the
next. For instance, one side can be blaze orange, and the other
camouflage. In addition, the fabric panel can be removed to expose
a third color, which is the color of the backpack itself. Thus, the
fabric panels both reduce noise generation and provide
multi-functional color combinations.
[0093] While an example is provided for attaching the fabric panel
230 to the rear surface 240 of the backpack 232, a fabric panel 230
can be attached to any other surface of the backpack, including the
top, sides, front and bottom, by similar means to obtain similar
results.
[0094] A fabric panel 158, as shown in FIG. 16a and 16b, is a
valuable noise reduction and color enhancement addition for use
with the panel extension 206 as described above. The fabric panel
258 for use with the panel extension 206 includes a main body made
of the fabric. The main body is shaped the substantially the same
as the panel extension 206, and has a beading finish on its
peripheral edges. The main body fabric can be one color on one side
and an alternative color on the other. A loop member 262 is
attached at each corner to secure an elastic cord guide 264. An
adjustable length elastic cord 266 extends through each cord guide
264 around the perimeter of the fabric panel 258.
[0095] The fabric panel 258 is applied to the rear surface of the
panel extension 206 using unique corner fasteners. See FIG. 16b.
The loop members 262 at each corner of the fabric panel 258 extend
over the corresponding corner 224 of the panel extension 206. This
anchors and secures the position of the fabric panel 258 on the
panel extension 206. This also positions the cord guides 264 inside
the perimeter of the panel extension 206 on the opposite side
(front side) of the panel extension 206 to which the fabric panel
258 is applied. When the elastic cord 266 is tightened using the
adjustable fastener 268, the cord guides 264 are biased toward the
center of the front side of the panel extension 206, and pull the
loop members 262 taut around the corners 224 of the panel extension
206 to secure the fabric panel 258 in place. To remove the fabric
panel 258 from the panel extension 206, the elastic cord 266 is
loosened, and the loop members 262 are removed from the corners 224
of the panel extension 206.
[0096] When the panel extension 206 is in the collapsed mode, the
fabric panel 258 is facing outwardly away from the backpack. The
fabric panel 258 thus applied provides the color variations desired
by the user, reduces noise generation cause by foliage contact, and
also acts as a seat cushion when the panel extension is positioned
to extend forwardly of the backpack.
[0097] Another accessory for use with the harness described above
is a hand warmer pouch suspended between shoulder straps 44 of the
harness 40. The hand warmer pouch 270 and the related attachment
structure 272 are shown in FIGS. 17a, 17b, 17c and 17d. The hand
warmer pouch 270 has a main body 274 defining a top edge 276,
opposing side edges 278, and a bottom edge 280. The hand warmer
pouch 270 defines an interior cargo space accessed through zippered
openings 282 formed along both the top edge 276 on the front and
back surfaces of the pouch 270. The dual zippers 282 allow
ambidextrous access to the cargo space. A lined recess 284 is
formed between the opposing side edges 278. Openings 286 are formed
along the side edges 278 to allow access to the recess 284, which
allows a user to position his hands in the recess. The hand warmer
270 preferably has an insulating material, such as fleece, lining
the recess 284. A user can insert his or her hands into the recess
284 from opposite sides to meet inside the recess.
[0098] The hand warmer pouch 270 is suspended between the shoulder
straps 44 of the harness system 40. The mounting tracks 76
positioned on the shoulder straps 44 support an attachment
structure 272, such as the three-bar fastener with an
integrally-formed laterally inwardly extending common loop 286. The
hand warmer 270 attaches to the inwardly extending common loops at
either end. Fastening means, such as a male spring-loaded
attachment insert 288, is attached to and extends outwardly from
each top corner of the hand warmer pouch 270. A female receptor 290
is attached to a leash 292, which is attached to the common loop on
the mounting track 76. The leash 292 is attached to a three-bar
slider, which is inserted through the common loop, as described
above with respect to FIG. 2b. Each male attachment 288 is
releasably received in the corresponding female receptor 290 to
suspend the hand warming pouch 270 between the shoulder straps 44,
as shown in FIGS. 17a and 17b.
[0099] FIG. 17c shows an alternative attachment mechanism 294 for
mounting the common loop 296 on the mounting track 298 in generic
applications. Where the mounting track 298 is fixed to the shoulder
strap 300 such that no three-bar slider can be inserted over the
mounting track 298, a split three-bar slider 302 can be used to
attach to the mounting track. In a split three-bar slider, the two
outer bars 304 each define a slot 306 and are not continuous, thus
allowing the mounting track 298 to be inserted through the slot 306
in the outer bars, as shown in FIG. 17c. The common loop 296 is
integrally formed on the split three-bar slider 302 for attachment
applications, such as the hand warmer pouch 270. The leash 308 is
then attached to the common loop 296 on the split three-bar slider
302. This split three-bar slider 302 will also work on a "shoulder
lift" strap found on some high-end backpacks.
[0100] FIG. 17d shows the manner for attaching a common loop 310 to
shoulder straps 312 to support the hand warmer pouch 270 when the
shoulder straps 312 are generic and do not have a mounting track.
In this instance, the common loop 310 is affixed to a length of
flexible webbing 314 having Velcro.RTM. type hook and loop fastener
thereon. The length of webbing material 314 is wrapped around the
shoulder strap 312 and fastened to itself using the Velcro.RTM.
fastener. This attaches the common loop 310 where desired to
support the suspended hand warmer 270 between the shoulder straps
312. The leash 316 is then attached to the common loop 310 to
support the hand warmer 270. The hand warmer 270 can be positioned
at virtually any desired vertical location on the shoulder straps
312.
[0101] FIG. 18 shows the application of many of the features of the
present invention on a garment, such as a vest 320. The vest has a
conventional main body defining a front right and left side
portions. A mounting track 322 is attached to the bottom part of
the right, generally over the hip of the user. A spatula system
324, as described above, is used to support the cradle 326 of the
long gun support system from the mounting track 322. The barrel
fastener 328, as described above with respect to the long gun
support system 148, is attached to a three-bar slider 330 on
mounting tracks 332 on the upper part of the right portion of the
vest. A three-bar loop can be used, where no mounting tracks are
present, as part of a three-bar loop/common loop connection
structure. The long gun support system securely holds a firearm
when implemented on a garment, such as a vest 320, in a similar
manner to its use on a harness or backpack. The fly rod pouch
(FIGS. 10a and 10b) and the spinning rod pouch (FIGS. 11a and 11b)
can also be mounted on the mounting track using the spatula
system.
[0102] A pair of vertically spaced mounting tracks 332, 334 are
fixed to the left side portion of the vest to support the shell
carrier 336 using the spatula support system 102, as shown in FIGS.
7a, 7b, and 7c. This is also shown in FIG. 18.
[0103] A hand warmer 338, as shown in FIG. 17a-d, can also be
mounted on a garment in the same manner as it is supported between
the laterally spaced shoulder straps of a back pack or harness. The
garment includes the proper attachment fasteners (such as common
loops) formed thereon to support the fasteners shown in FIGS. 17b
and 17d. The hand warmer 270 can thus serve to carry desired
objects, as well as provide a place to warm one's hands, on a vest
or other garment.
[0104] The instant invention, as described above, provides an
integrated load bearing field support system. The field support
system is based on the harness using the spatula mounting system,
as well as the universally positioned attachment mechanisms to
allow the attachment of a variety of articles to the field support
system conveniently and securely. The variety of articles includes
different pouches, a shell holder, long gun support system and the
hand warmer. In addition, existing load bearing systems, such as
backpacks, can also be used to support these articles provided the
proper connection structure. The extension panel application for
the load bearing field support system also provides added
functionality. In addition, the noise reduction panels provide
additional benefits to the system, including providing the desired
camouflage, or high visibility, protection and noise reduction.
[0105] While the invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that various other
changes in the form and details may be made without departing from
the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0106] As merely one example, the nylon webbing length mounting
tracks 52 may be replaced by any suitable flexible material and
need not necessarily be a webbing material. A complementary hook or
loop material may also be provided on the outer surface of the
waist belt 42 beneath the tracks 52 to provide additional lateral
support for attached articles to the tracks 52. These alternative
constructions may also apply to the mounting tracks 76 on the
shoulder straps 44.
[0107] A presently preferred embodiment of the present invention
and many of its improvements have been described with a degree of
particularity. It should be understood that this description has
been made by way of example, and that the invention is defined by
the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *