U.S. patent application number 11/509122 was filed with the patent office on 2008-02-28 for arm pocket.
Invention is credited to Mark Edward Morgan, Jytte Lilli Nielsen.
Application Number | 20080047990 11/509122 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39107468 |
Filed Date | 2008-02-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080047990 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Morgan; Mark Edward ; et
al. |
February 28, 2008 |
Arm pocket
Abstract
The present invention is an arm pocket attached by "V"
configured straps allowing a wearer's arm to comfortably and
securely support the pocket worn. A storage body may contain dual
flaps extending over the top of the arm pocket when opened, and
extending below the arm pocket when unlatched. The pocket can
contain a "touch-through" vinyl window to allow portable music
player operation without removing the player from the secured arm
pocket. Various pocket/strap sizes and hook and loop strap
configurations, along with many material compositions suitable for
every occasion with added security provided by the compressible
split-end strap that fold back over the double-loop sizing device.
Utilizing visco-elastic memory foam-type padding sculpted to mirror
the arm's natural contours, the arm pocket wearer can also
comfortably and securely carry heavy items.
Inventors: |
Morgan; Mark Edward; (Doral,
FL) ; Nielsen; Jytte Lilli; (Doral, FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MICHAEL RIES
318 PARKER PLACE
OSWEGO
IL
60543
US
|
Family ID: |
39107468 |
Appl. No.: |
11/509122 |
Filed: |
August 24, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
224/222 ;
224/148.4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 2011/002 20130101;
A45F 5/00 20130101; A45F 2005/008 20130101; A45F 2200/0516
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/222 ;
224/148.4 |
International
Class: |
A45F 5/00 20060101
A45F005/00; A45C 13/30 20060101 A45C013/30 |
Claims
1. An arm pocket comprising: a storage compartment body; a
"V-strap" connecting band attached to the arm pocket; and an
integrated, multi-function storage pocket on the body.
2. The arm pocket of claim 1, wherein the at least one storage
compartment is easily accessible.
3. The arm pocket of claim 1, wherein the storage compartment is a
selected one of an expandable internal and external
compartment.
4. The arm pocket of claim 3 wherein expandable compartments inside
the pocket are multi-function for storing a wearers personal
belongings normally carried in a selected one of small pockets and
pants.
5. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein the storage compartment
contains at least one personal belonging that is a selected one of
cosmetics, pills, credit cards, drivers license, cash, keys, cell
phone and portable music player.
6. The arm pocket of claim 1, wherein the arm pocket has a design
of a selected one of embroidery, sequins, beads and logos.
7. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein the arm pocket is coordinated
with an ensemble of a wearer.
8. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein a dividing central compartment
is secured to the bottom of the arm pocket by hook and loop
connectors allowing the compartment's quick removal and
reinsertion, and is interchangeable with other arm pockets.
9. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein the "V-strap" configuration
retaining straps attach the arm pocket to a wearer's upper arm
between the shoulder and elbow, the arm pocket can be made of a
selected one of expandable fabric and elastic adjustable straps
with a dual-loop sizing device that can be placed inside the pocket
that reduce contact with the wearer's arm reducing irritation to
the arm.
10. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein the "V" strap configuration
has dual straps joined in a center an inner edge of the arm pocket
and is connected to an opposite inner edge at a top and bottom of
the arm pocket and the "V" strap is securely stitched into the body
that is reinforced using internal stitching, the "V" strap extends
horizontally across the arm pocket allowing a wearer's arm to
easily slide between the straps and the arm pocket so that the arm
pocket rests between shoulders and elbows of the wearer.
11. The arm pocket of claim 10 wherein the "V" strap configuration
slides through a selected one of a single-loop and dual-loop sizing
device securely stitched into the opposite reinforced edge of the
arm pocket body allowing the "V" strap to pass through and fold
over the loop attaching to the "V" strap using hook-and-loop
material in a "split-end" configuration.
12. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein at least one flap extends
from the arm pocket when unlatched from at least one connector
located on the arm pocket.
13. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein at least one flap extends
from the top of the arm pocket when unlatched from the body at
least one connector located on the arm pocket with a selected one
of a see-through card compartment, a cosmetic mirror, and an
elastic penholder.
14. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein at least one flap extends
from a bottom of the arm pocket when unlatched from the body at
least one connector located on the arm pocket with a see-through
card compartment and a cosmetic mirror, and an elastic
penholder.
15. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein a heavy-duty version of the
arm pocket has insulating material that is a selected one of denier
nylon, polyurethane, foil backed bubble and other insulted-type
material allowing portage of a collapsible beverage container.
16. The arm pocket of claim 1 utilizing a broad, visco-elastic
memory foam-type padding that is sculpted to mirror an arm's
natural contours and a multi-layered, webbing designed sculpted arm
belt of an abrasion-resistant, durable, and breathable
material.
17. The arm pocket of claim 1 wherein a low-profile beverage
container made of a selected one of plastic and aluminum that
contours to the shape of an arm and fits into an insulated carriage
compartment of the arm pocket
18. A method for carrying personal items comprising: storing items
in an arm pocket; and attaching the arm pocket to an upper arm
between a shoulder and elbow of a person by a V shaped strap
wherein the items are inside a storage compartment that contains at
least one personal belonging that is a selected one of cosmetics,
pills, credit cards, drivers license, cash, keys cell phone and
portable music player and at least one flap extends from the arm
pocket when unlatched from at least one connector located on the
arm pocket a flap is a selected one of at least one see-through
card compartment, a cosmetic mirror located, and an elastic
penholder and expandable compartments are inside the pocket and a
"touch-through" vinyl window to allow music player operation
without removing the player from the pocket and are
multi-functional for storing a wearer's personal belongings
normally carried in a selected one of small pockets and pants.
19. The method of claim 18 wherein the "V" strap configuration has
dual straps joined in a center, inner edge of the arm pocket and
connected to an opposite inner edge at a top and bottom of the arm
pocket and the "V" strap is securely stitched into the pocket body
that is reinforced using internal stitching, the "V" strap extends
horizontally across the arm pocket allowing a wearer's arm to
easily slide between the straps and the arm pocket so that the arm
pocket rests between a wearer's shoulder and elbow.
20. The method of claim 18 wherein a central dividing compartment
is secured to the bottom of the arm pocket by hook and loop
connectors allowing the compartment's quick removal and reinsertion
and interchangeability with other arm pockets.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD & BACKGROUND
[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of an
arm pocket that is a secure, functional, fashionable, and sports
orientated accessory allowing easy access to personal articles.
This multi-function item can be utilized by anyone requiring
hands-free, immediate access to personal or professional items.
[0002] Likewise, the incessant demand of the fashion industry for
fresh ideas combined with consumer demand for products that
simplify their daily routine has paved the way for the development
of the arm pocket. This invention capitalizes on the recent
miniaturization of personal electronic devices and the user's
desire to keep them securely and readily available, while
satisfying the demand for a functional and fashionable clothing
accessory.
[0003] The arm pocket consists of a closable fabric or leather
pocket worn around the upper arm between the shoulder and elbow and
can be coordinated as part of the wearer's ensemble. Similar to a
shoulder-worn purse that loosely hangs from the shoulder with a
strap, the arm pocket is designed to hold the wearer's personal
belongings, but is securely attached to the wearer. The arm pocket
is secured to the upper arm by a plurality of adjustable, elastic,
neoprene, leather or other material designed in a unique "V"
configuration allowing the wearer full range of arm motion while
the pocket remains securely in place on the upper arm. This "V"
strap configuration allows for greater weight distribution along
the vertical axis of the arm in contrast to a single strap
configuration. This greater weight distribution capability provides
the wearer comfortable, secure, and easy access to an unprecedented
number of personal items. Likewise, for situations where the wearer
desires to carry only a few lightweight items, a single strap
configuration can also be incorporated into this design. Adding to
the arm pocket's security is its unique "split-end" design of the
"V" strap where the ends flare out after passing through the
connecting loop. Further incorporation of a dual-loop "belt-type"
connection allows even greater security. This split-end
configuration significantly reduces the probability of the straps
falling away from the wearer's arm in the event the Velcro or hook
and loop connection inadvertently detaches--a predicament plaguing
existing armband devices today.
[0004] The present invention also capitalizes on the advancements
in polycarbonate torsion support systems that allow even greater
weight distribution along a radially formed, side-cinch compression
"arm-belt". Utilizing an Air-Mesh, EVA foam-type harness comprised
of Neoprene or Velvetex-type breathable fabric, the wearer can
comfortably and securely carry unprecedented amounts of weight
between the natural indent formed between the wearer's bicep,
tricep and anterior deltoid muscle. This location's natural
multiple contours also takes advantage of the limited range of
motion and reduced forces exerted on the upper arm as opposed to
the wrist or hand which is located at the end of the rapidly moving
"lever" when the arm is in motion. Subsequently, the greater
centrifugal forces associated with most sports activities involving
throwing a ball or swinging a racquet makes storage bags located on
the lower arm or wrist impractical for active wearers. Tests have
shown the streamlined, lightweight arm pocket can be worn on the
wearer's arm without impeding the player's performance.
Additionally, in non-contact sports, the arm pocket's internal,
elastic compartments allow participation in sports without damaging
its contents.
[0005] The arm pocket allows the runner, weight lifter, ball-player
or the most avid sports fan to keep her cell phone, portable music
player, keys and other valuables safe inside the confines of the
pocket securely attached to her arm and not on the bench where they
can "mysteriously" disappear in the heat of competition.
[0006] Additionally, integrated inside the arm pocket's storage
body are zippered or Velcro enclosed compartments and retainers
constructed of expandable, elastic material for securing items such
as a cell phone, portable music player, lipstick/pill bottle,
credit cards, cash, and a compartment for keys and coins. The
center zippered or Velcro enclosed compartment divides the main
storage body into two main storage compartments that can be used
for larger items such as electronic devices. This central dividing
compartment is unique in that it can be secured to the bottom of
the arm pocket by hook and loop connectors (Velcro) allowing the
quick removal and reinsertion of the compartment. This allows the
wearer to easily retrieve the contents of this compartment without
having to search for items with one hand while the device is worn
on the arm. The ability to easily extract the central compartment
also allows the wearer to quickly interchange the compartment and
its contents (keys, cash, ID, credit cards) from one arm pocket to
another.
[0007] Flaps can be integrated into the top and bottom of the
pocket and are secured with latching mechanisms. These flaps
contain see-through compartments for driver license, personal
identification or business cards. Variants of the arm pocket that
integrate flaps can also contain a cosmetic mirror and penholder
for easy access. These flaps can be secured with a bungee cinch
system to allow additional item into the expandable
compartments.
[0008] Variants of the arm pocket will contain a "touch-through"
front that will allow the wearer to access the controls of their
I-pod, GPS, or other electronic device. This allows the wearer to
adjust their electronic device's controls without removing the
device from the pocket.
[0009] Similarly, hikers or runners could carry a collapsible water
canteen or other beverage container in a heavy-duty, PVC coated
nylon material or other camel bak-type drinking system or water
bottle and water backs specifically adapted for the arm pocket.
Likewise, the wearer can insert a canned beverage in an insulated
holder while also holding other personal articles.
[0010] Adding to this invention's functionality is the
incorporation of molded aluminum, plastic or other beverage
containers that conform to the shape of the wearer's arm, and would
securely fit into the arm pocket's insulated beverage compartment.
This beverage holder would fit inside the arm pocket, and be made
of insulating material like denier nylon, polyurethane, foil backed
bubble or other insultote-type material. These "low-profile"
beverage containers could allow the wearer easy access to his
favorite energy drink, or other beverage of choice while
participating in rigorous and active sporting events.
[0011] In a social setting, women today are restricted to carrying
their personal items in a clutch or over the shoulder purse
restricting the use of both hands. In addition, when searching for
items buried in a cluttered purse, women often waste valuable time
in search of items like keys, pens, credit cards, cash or their
cell phone. The arm pocket provides a fashionable, multi-functional
and secure storage system that keeps personal items organized and
readily available under any situation--under any condition. In
addition, the arm pocket can be fashionably coordinated to match
the wearer's dress as a fashion accessory (embellished with
sequins, colorful embroidery, or other designer accoutrement), and
has the added benefit of freeing both hands to finally allow her to
go to the bar and fetch the drinks. Additionally, when taking the
dance floor or mingling around the room, ladies no longer have to
worry about trusting her purse to the bartender or someone to watch
over her purse and its valuable contents. Then, there's always the
threat of purse-snatchers or pick-pockets. The arm pocket offers
solutions facilitating the wearer's social experience with
unprecedented security.
[0012] Similarly, men are often concerned about the security of
their wallets, and who hasn't sat in a chair only to have the
contents of his pockets cascade between the cushions of the couch.
Then, there's the challenge of going through airport security
screening with items left in pants resulting in repeat trips
through the metal detector or even a time-consuming wand
search.
[0013] Additional users could include military special forces
requiring hands-free access to global positioning systems,
communication devices, miniaturized tactical battlefield terminals
or other traditional "hand-held" electronic devices. With
advancements in similar underwater-capable systems, this device can
carry a submersible, crush-proof, "dry box" that is visible and
operable like underwater camera housings for recreational divers,
who must suspend these devices by straps dangling from the wrist or
held in the hand. For wearers who must wear specific uniforms or
protective clothing, reinforced loops can be sewn into the garment
and serve as wrinkle-resistant, arm pocket attachment points.
[0014] Moreover, in many families where both parents work, many
children are responsible for keeping track of their own house key,
which invariably gets lost on the playground or ball field. The arm
pocket offers a solution to all these predicaments.
[0015] The arm pocket represents a unique, viable alternative to
existing personal carrying devices. Experience proves that wearing
a traditional "fanny pack" while participating in sports that
require running or jumping results in the pack with its unsecured
internal contents to uncontrollable bounce around inside the pack
causing an annoying distraction along with significant bruising to
the body caused by the pack itself. Likewise, when working out at
the gym, most exercise equipment requires the user to sit down,
which can crush or damage fanny pack or pants pockets contents.
Also, when participating in sports or attending a sporting event,
it is often impractical to carry a purse or place your keys,
wallet, cell phone, or music player on your person. Subsequently,
this invention allows wearers to participate in their favorite
sport or attend any event without worrying about the security of
their personal items interfering, or worse--disappearing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The present invention will be described by way of exemplary
embodiments, but not limitations, illustrated in the accompanying
drawings in which like references denote similar elements, and in
which:
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a drawing showing the intended
positioning of the arm pocket on the user's arm, in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a drawing of back side view illustrating
the unique "V" design of the arm straps, this lightweight sports
version does not incorporate the dual flap design, in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates a drawing of a front side view of the
"casual-chic" version incorporating the pocket's dual outer flaps
in the closed position, in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates a drawing of a perspective view of FIG. 3
in the open position, demonstrating the various compartments and
functionality of the arm pocket with the flaps in the open
position, in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 5 identifies the musculature and contours of the human
arm that are mirrored in the construction of the "heavy-duty"
version of this invention;
[0022] FIG. 6 identifies the rear view of an arm pocket and
identifies the multi-layered webbing design constructed of
visco-elastic memory foam material along the polycarbonate torsion
support system that is radially formed and connected to a
side-cinch compression V-strap. This assembly is sculpted to mirror
the natural contours of the human arm; FIG. 7 demonstrates
front-view of this "heavy-duty" version of the invention in the
open position, ideally suited to carry a collapsible water
container or other low-profile beverage container.
[0023] FIG. 8 shows the "heavy-duty" arm pocket in the
closed/secured position held closed by bungee closures located on
the front of the container.
[0024] FIG. 9 shows the unique, low-profile beverage container that
mirrors the natural curve of the upper arm allowing the wearer to
carry a beverage internally in the arm pocket while participating
in vigorous activities;
[0025] FIG. 10 shows the back of the "heavy-duty" arm pocket
wherein the "V" strap slides through a single or dual-loop sizing
device securely stitched into the opposite reinforced edge of the
arm pocket body the "V" strap, made of neoprene or like
compressible material, passes through the sizing loop into an
opposing split "V" this strap then folds back over the loop
connecting to the top of the "V" strap using hook-and-loop material
(Velcro).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0026] Various aspects of the illustrative embodiments will be
described using terms commonly employed by those skilled in the art
to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art.
However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the
present invention may be practiced with only some of the described
aspects. For purposes of explanation, specific numbers, materials
and configurations are set forth in order to provide a thorough
understanding of the illustrative embodiments. However, it will be
apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may
be practiced without the specific details. In other instances,
well-known features are omitted or simplified in order not to
obscure the illustrative embodiments.
[0027] Various operations will be described as multiple discrete
operations, in turn, in a manner that is most helpful in
understanding the present invention, however, the order of
description should not be construed as to imply that these
operations are necessarily order dependent. In particular, these
operations need not be performed in the order of presentation. The
phrase "in one embodiment" is used repeatedly. The phrase generally
does not refer to the same embodiment, however, it may. The terms
"comprising", "having" and "including" are synonymous, unless the
context dictates otherwise.
[0028] Referring now to FIG. 1, shown is an arm pocket 1. Referring
to FIG. 2, shown is a sport version detailed, both the typical and
sports versions utilize the "V" arm strap system 2, attached to the
pocket body 3. An exterior storage compartment enclosed by an
elastic band 3a can be located on the side of the arm pocket
3b.
[0029] Referring to FIG. 3, in one embodiment shown is a
"casual-chic" version of the arm pocket in the closed position
containing a dual flap system with an upper flap 4 extending from
the top of the pocket body and a lower flap 5 connected to the
bottom of the pocket body 6. In the closed position, these flaps
are secured to the front of the pocket body and open in opposing
directions when the securing mechanisms 7 are released. When the
top flap is opened, the wearer can access the arm pocket's interior
through a zippered opening 8.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 4, as in one embodiment, shown is an
interior of the "casual-chic" arm pocket. Integrated compartments 9
are separated by a removable central dividing compartment 10 that
is zippered or enclosed by hook and loop material (Velcro) at the
top, and is also secured to the bottom of the pocket body's
interior with hook and loop material (Velcro). The main
compartments contain layered card holders 11 along with expandable
retaining compartments nominally sized for a cell phone 12,
earpiece/cigarette lighter 13, lipstick or medication bottles 14,
and a portable music player/cigarettes 15 with a "touch-through"
vinyl window to allow music player operation without removing the
player from the pocket. Reinforced earpiece holes are located at
the top 16 allowing electronic device operation. Located on the
upper flap is an elastic loop for retaining a pen 17, along with an
integrated tulle fabric/vinyl covered, "see-through" ID compartment
18, which is also integrated into the lower flap 19 adjacent to a
cosmetic mirror 20.
[0031] Referring to FIG. 5, this drawing identifies the musculature
and contours of the human arm mirrored in the construction of the
"heavy-duty" version of this invention. FIG. 6 identifies the Arm
pocket's multi-layered webbing design constructed of visco-elastic
memory foam material incorporated into the radially formed,
polycarbonate, torsion support system 21 connected to a side-cinch
compression V-strap 22. This assembly is sculpted to mirror the
natural contours of the human arm. This "heavy-duty" version of the
invention will use a similar "V-strap" configured attachment band
22, but utilizing a broader, sculpted arm belt comprised of an
abrasion-resistant, durable, and breathable material like Hypalon
or Neoprene. Similarly, this version will incorporate other
advancements in the field including laminating construction (versus
sewing), thermo-molded construction techniques, and additional
Brock-type, breathable interior foam padding.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 7, shows the front view of the
"heavy-duty" version of this invention presented in the open
position. This version also shows the side-cinch compression
V-strap 22 connected to the pocket body ideally suited to carry a
water container or other beverages. Likewise, the wearer can insert
a collapsible camelbak-type water bladder into the insulated
storage compartment, as the arm pocket's reinforced bottom can
accommodate a drink-tube access port 23, with tube attachments
located along the side and top of the arm pocket body 24 allowing
the drinking tube to wrap around the body of the pocket with enough
length so the wearer can drink from the tube while wearing the arm
pocket. Like the basic arm pocket, this version will retain a
separate universal storage compartments for a cell-phone, MP3 or
I-pod player and keys along with partitions of credit cards and a
see-through ID compartment 25, as well as a zippered, utility
compartment for keys or other items 26. The interior 27, will
contain durable, insulating material like denier nylon,
polyurethane, foil backed bubble or other insultote-type material.
Referring to FIG. 8, this version of the arm pocket is shown in the
closed/secured position, and can carry a variety of beverage
containers 28, and is secured in the closed position by bungee
closures located on the front of the container. The closing flap 29
and side panels 30 will be constructed of an expandable, neoprene
or polyurethane-type material that will allow this invention to
accommodate a wide range of beverage container sizes and shapes.
The closing flap will be secured with bungee connectors 31 further
expanding the range of beverage containers that can comfortably fit
into this invention's expandable, insulated interior
compartment.
[0033] Referring to FIG. 9, shown is the unique, low-profile
beverage container constructed of various lightweight materials
whose shape mirrors the natural curve of the upper arm allowing the
wearer to carry a beverage internally in the arm pocket while
participating in vigorous activities.
[0034] Referring to FIG. 10, the "V" strap configuration 32
constructed of a soft, expandable, polyurethane or neoprene-type
material which slides through a dual-loop or single loop sizing
device 33 securely stitched into the opposite reinforced edge of
the arm pocket body 34 allowing the "V" strap to pass through and
fold over the loop attaching to the "V" strap using hook-and-loop
material (Velcro). The loop is separated from the user's arm by a
padded neoprene or other soft material flap 35. Once passed through
the loop, the "V" strap separates into a "split-end" design 36,
with the male end 37 of the Velcro attached at each end of the
straps allowing it to attach to the female Velcro patches located
on top each of the "V" strap 38.
[0035] While the present invention has been related in terms of the
foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that
the invention is not limited to the embodiments depicted. The
present invention can be practiced with modification and alteration
within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Thus, the
description is to be regarded as illustrative instead of
restrictive on the present invention.
* * * * *