U.S. patent application number 12/807370 was filed with the patent office on 2012-03-08 for wearable foldout map and document holder.
Invention is credited to Daniel E. Phair.
Application Number | 20120055963 12/807370 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45769934 |
Filed Date | 2012-03-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120055963 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Phair; Daniel E. |
March 8, 2012 |
Wearable foldout map and document holder
Abstract
A Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder (the "invention") for
storing a map or reference document while engaged in activities,
such as skiing. The invention provides the user a way to reference
a map without removing gloves and without risking loss of the
user's wallet, keys and other items normally stowed in jacket
pockets. The invention comprises a base member and an enclosure
flap that are pivotally attached. The enclosure flap may be
selectively secured to the base member to form an enclosure. A
folding document carrier is attached to the enclosure flap and base
member. When folded, the folding document carrier is contained
within the enclosure formed between the enclosure flap and base
member. When opened, the user may reference a map through the
transparent upper surface of the folding document carrier.
Adjustable straps allow the user to wear the invention or attach it
to their personal effects.
Inventors: |
Phair; Daniel E.; (Ashland,
MA) |
Family ID: |
45769934 |
Appl. No.: |
12/807370 |
Filed: |
September 3, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
224/267 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 5/00 20130101; A45F
2005/008 20130101; A45F 2200/055 20130101; A45F 2200/05
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/267 |
International
Class: |
A45F 5/00 20060101
A45F005/00 |
Claims
1. A Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder for carrying a map or
other document while engaged in physical activity comprising: a. a
base member having at least one layer of flexible material, the
flexible material allowing the Wearable Foldout Map and Document
Holder to conform to the user's limb; b. an enclosure flap,
pivotally attached to the base member, having at least one layer of
flexible material; c. a folding document carrier having a sheet of
foldable material and a sheet of foldable transparent material,
which sheets of material are attached along at least three edges to
form a pocket, and having an opening for inserting maps or
documents into said pocket; and d. a system of straps, which
comprises at least one strap that is provided with a fastener for
securing the Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder to the user's
limb or to the user's personal effects.
2. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the base member comprises a backing layer of flexible non-slip
material for minimizing slippage of the Wearable Foldout Map and
Document Holder when worn over a limb, and an upper layer of
flexible material that is attached to the backing layer, the base
member having a generally rectangular central portion and
incorporating a pair of trapezoidal extensions on two opposed edges
of the rectangular central portion to allow the Wearable Foldout
Map and Document Holder to conform more readily to the user's
limb.
3. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the enclosure flap comprises an interior layer of flexible material
and an outer layer of flexible material that is attached to the
interior layer, the enclosure flap having a generally rectangular
shape, and said enclosure flap being pivotally attached to the base
member along one edge to allow the enclosure flap to be positioned
so that it overlays the base member, forming an enclosure.
4. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the enclosure flap comprises a pull tab to allow the user to more
easily manipulate the enclosure flap, said pull tab extending from
the edge of the enclosure flap that is opposite the pivotal
attachment of the enclosure flap to the base member.
5. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the base member and the enclosure flap are provided with
complementary elements of a fastening system for selectively
securing the enclosure flap to the base member.
6. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the enclosure flap is provided with a transparent display pouch for
displaying a ski pass or other identifying document.
7. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the base member and enclosure flap are provided with elements of a
fastening system for fastening the folding document carrier to the
base member and to the enclosure flap, said elements of a fastening
system comprising fasteners that are provided on the surfaces of
the base member and the enclosure flap that face each other when
the enclosure flap is pivoted so that it overlays the base
member.
8. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the folding document carrier, when folded, may be interposed and
contained within the space between the base member and enclosure
flap when the enclosure flap is pivoted so that it overlays the
base member.
9. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the folding document carrier comprises: a. a sheet of foldable
material, which is provided with elements of a fastening system for
fastening the folding document carrier to the base member and to
the enclosure flap; b. a sheet of foldable transparent material
that is attached to the sheet of foldable material along at least
three edges to form a pocket for receiving maps and documents; and
c. an opening for inserting maps and documents between said sheet
of foldable material and said sheet of foldable transparent
material.
10. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 1 wherein
the system of straps comprises at least one strap that is attached
to the base member and provided with fasteners for securing the
Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder to the user's limb or
personal effects.
11. A Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder for carrying a map
or other document while engaged in physical activity comprising: a.
a base member having at least one layer of flexible material to
allow the Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder to conform to
the user's limb; b. an enclosure flap that is pivotally attached to
the base member, having at least one layer of flexible material;
and c. a folding document carrier having a bottom sheet of foldable
material and a top sheet of foldable transparent material, the
bottom sheet and top sheet being attached along at least three
edges to form a pocket, and said folding document carrier being
provided with an opening for inserting maps and documents into said
pocket.
12. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 11
further comprising a system of straps having at least one strap
member that is attached to the base member and that is provided
with a fastener for securing the Wearable Foldout Map and Document
Holder to the user's limb or to the user's personal effects.
13. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 12
wherein said system of straps is removable from said base
member.
14. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 12
wherein the system of straps comprises: a. at least one pair of
complementary strap members that are attached to the base member
and provided with fasteners for coupling the complementary strap
members together and securing the Wearable Foldout Map and Document
Holder to the user's limb or personal effects; and b. an elastic
element incorporated into at least one of said complementary strap
members for creating a snug fit around the limb of the user.
15. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 11
wherein the base member comprises a backing layer of flexible
non-slip material for minimizing slippage of the Wearable Foldout
Map and Document Holder when worn over a limb, and an upper layer
of flexible material that is attached to the backing layer, the
base member having a generally rectangular central portion and
incorporating a pair of trapezoidal extensions on two opposed edges
of said rectangular central portion to allow the Wearable Foldout
Map and Document Holder to conform more readily to the user's
limb.
16. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 15
wherein the base member is provided with elements of a fastening
system for fastening the folding document carrier to the base
member, said elements of a fastening system comprising at least one
fastener that is provided on the upper layer of the base
member.
17. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 11
wherein the enclosure flap comprises an interior layer of flexible
material and an outer layer of flexible material that is attached
to the interior layer, the enclosure flap having a generally
rectangular shape and said enclosure flap being pivotally attached
to the base member along one edge to allow the enclosure flap to be
positioned so that it overlays the base member, forming an
enclosure.
18. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 11
wherein the enclosure flap comprises a transparent display pouch
for displaying a ski pass or other identifying document and a pull
tab to allow the user to more easily manipulate the enclosure flap,
said pull tab extending from the edge of the enclosure flap that is
opposite the pivotal attachment of the enclosure flap to the base
member.
19. The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of claim 11
wherein the folding document carrier comprises: a. a bottom sheet
of foldable material and a top sheet of foldable transparent
material, which bottom sheet and top sheet are attached along at
least three edges to form a pocket for receiving maps and
documents; b. an opening between the top sheet and bottom sheet for
inserting maps and documents into the pocket formed between the
bottom sheet and top sheet; and c. elements of a fastening system
provided on the bottom sheet for fastening the folding document
carrier to the base member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM
LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX
[0003] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] For skiers and other persons who enjoy outdoor recreation
during winter months, consulting a map is often problematic. For
skiers in particular, to access a trail map, they must put down
their ski poles, remove gloves, and carefully remove the map from a
pocket to avoid dropping keys or other personal effects in the
snow. Checking a map while riding a chairlift creates the risk that
a dropped glove will be forever lost. In severe weather, exposing
flesh creates the risk of frostbite. Similar problems arise while
hiking in cold or inclement weather and during other outdoor
recreation activities. There are existing inventions (described
below) that seek to address the problems encountered by skiers and
others when referencing a map. Many of the existing inventions are
designed to be worn conveniently on the arm of the user. However,
none of the known inventions address the fact that trail maps and
similar reference documents are quite large in relation to the
length and circumference of the average person's arm, even when
wearing a winter jacket.
[0006] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0007] There are numerous armband pouches and similar inventions
designed to carry maps and documents for use during activities such
as skiing. One example is the map holder, U.S. Pat. No. 4,415,106,
which comprises a planar support element with a map supporting
section and a translucent map enclosing element. The enclosing
element is sealed on three edges to the map supporting section,
forming a pocket for receiving a trail map. The map holder is then
secured to the user's limb by a pair of straps. The detachable ski
or terrain map, U.S. Pat. No. 4,957,310, comprises a flexible,
substantially flat substrate having inner and outer surfaces with a
terrain map depicted on its inner surface. The substrate is folded
into a band having first and second longitudinal ends with a means
to attach the invention to the limb of the user incorporated into
said ends. When removed from the limb of the user, the band is
unfolded, allowing the user to view the terrain map. The display
apparel for maps and the like, U.S. Pat. No. 5,170,917, comprises a
flexible fabric backing panel with a display panel that is fixed to
the backing panel along three edges so as to define a pocket for
receiving a map or other document. Said panels are formed with two
parallel folds for folding the invention into three overlying
portions on the user's arm. A pair of armbands is provided for
securing the invention to the user's limb. The map mounting system
for strap application, U.S. Pat. No. 5,386,933, comprises a
transparent sheet and a sheet with printed matter on its front
surface that is adhered to the transparent sheet such that the
printed matter can be seen through said transparent sheet and a
backing sheet that is adhered to the transparent sheet. The
invention also includes a wrist strap that may be connected to the
backing sheet. The map holder, U.S. Pat. No. 5,390,957, comprises
an elongated hollow shaft that may be attached to a ski pole. A
mounting means allows a map to be attached to said shaft. A spring
biases the shaft to rotate in one direction, causing the sheet to
be rolled around said shaft. The user views the map by unwinding it
from said shaft. The arm band map holder, U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,936,
comprises a lightweight cylindrical piece of fabric that fits over
the user's arm. A flap attached to said cylindrical piece of fabric
forms a pocket for holding personal articles. A transparent window
attached to said flap forms a pocket for receiving a document. The
transparent window allows the user to view the document. The
document holder for wearer's limb, U.S. Pat. No. 5,477,633,
comprised a document holder with a plurality of flexible members
that are joined to form a pocket, one of said members generally
being see-through to allow the user to view a document through said
member.
[0008] While many of the above-referenced inventions provide
convenient pockets for viewing a map or other document, none fully
address the fact that typical ski area trail maps and similar
reference documents are often quite large relative to the length
and circumference of the average person's arm. Trail maps are often
over 10 inches tall and over 15 inches wide. Most existing
inventions provide a single viewing panel through which to view a
map or document. Given the size of most trail maps, the user must
fold down a significant portion of the trail map and can only view
a portion of the map through the viewing panel. The display apparel
for maps and the like, U.S. Pat. No. 5,170,917, partially addresses
this issue by providing a system with three overlying portions.
Nonetheless, to allow the user to view the full terrain area of
many trail maps, said invention must be very wide or very tall
relative to the size of most users' arms. To allow the user to view
most or all of the terrain depicted on many trail maps, existing
inventions must be large and awkward to wear. None of the known
inventions provide a compact means to carry and view most or all of
the terrain depicted on typical trail maps without removing the map
or the invention from the user's arm.
[0009] Accordingly, there is a need for a device that can be worn
comfortably over the sleeve of a winter jacket while engaged in
physical activity and that provides the user with a large viewing
area relative to the area occupied by the device on the user's arm
when the device is not in use. In its preferred embodiment, the
present invention also provides for a removable and interchangeable
map and document carrying element and a display pocket on the
surface of the invention which faces outward when worn by the
user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder of this
invention provides a device for storing a map or other reference
document that can be worn comfortably while engaged in activities
such as skiing. The invention also allows the user to easily
reference the stored document without removing it from the
invention. The invention also provides a viewing area for
referencing the stored document that is large enough to enable the
user to view most or all of the terrain depicted on typical ski
area trail maps. Additional aspects of the present invention
include, but are not limited to: a display pouch that is attached
to the surface of the invention that faces outward when worn on the
limb of the user for displaying a lift ticket or other document;
and a folding document carrier that is removably attached to a base
member.
[0011] The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder is generally
made of lightweight, flexible material. The presently preferred
embodiment comprises a two-layer base member having a rectangular
central portion. The backing layer of the base member, generally
worn in contact with a jacket, is typically constructed from
non-slip material. The base member typically incorporates a pair of
opposed trapezoidal extensions of the rectangular central portion
that allow the invention to conform more readily to the user's
forearm. An enclosure flap is pivotally attached to the base
member. The enclosure flap may be selectively secured to the base
member to form an enclosure. A transparent display pouch, which may
be used to display a ski pass or other identifying document, is
provided on the outward-facing surface of the enclosure flap.
[0012] The invention also comprises a folding document carrier
having a plurality of folds to allow the folding document carrier
to be collapsed when not in use. The folding document carrier is
provided with a bottom sheet of lightweight fabric and a top sheet
of foldable transparent material. The sheets are sewn or otherwise
attached along at least three edges to form a pocket. A trail map
or other document may be inserted between the top sheet and bottom
sheet. The transparent top sheet allows the user to reference a map
or document without removing it from the folding document carrier.
The folding document carrier is attached to the upper layer of the
base member and to the interior layer of the enclosure flap,
generally by means of a hook and loop fastening system. In the
presently preferred embodiment, the folding document carrier is
removably attached to the base member and enclosure flap, allowing
the folding document carrier to be interchanged or utilized without
attaching the invention to the user's limb. When folded, the
folding document carrier fits within the enclosure formed between
the enclosure flap and the base member. Unfolding the folding
document carrier allows the user to reference a map or
document.
[0013] A system of straps is attached to the base member, allowing
the invention to be worn on the forearm outside a jacket, attached
to a backpack, or otherwise attached to the user's personal effects
to allow for easy access. Said system of straps typically comprises
one or two straps having first and second strap members, said
members being attached to opposite edges of the base member and
being provided with means to couple the first and second strap
members together. Said system of straps is typically adjustable and
incorporates one or more elastic elements to provide for a snug,
comfortable fit for the individual user.
[0014] One of the objects of this invention is to address the
problems encountered by skiers when referencing a trail map while
skiing. Such problems include the inconvenience of having to stow
ski poles, remove and stow gloves, and removing the map from a
jacket pocket. Problems also include the risk of losing keys and
other personal effects when removing the map from a jacket
pocket.
[0015] Yet another object of this invention is to provide a means
to carry a map or other document comfortably and to reference said
map or document with minimal effort and without removing the
document from the invention.
[0016] Another object of this invention is to provide a map and
document carrier with a document viewing area that is large enough
to display most or all of the terrain depicted on typical ski area
trail maps.
[0017] Yet another object of this invention is to provide a way to
carry and access a map or other document so as to avoid exposure of
the contents of a back pack or other container to inclement weather
when accessing the document.
[0018] Yet another object of this invention is to provide a map and
document carrier that is removable from the main body of the
invention.
[0019] Yet another object of this invention is to provide a way to
display a ski pass or other identifying document.
[0020] Finally, another object of this invention is to provide a
way to easily access a map or document even in inclement weather,
without removing gloves or mittens, and without exposing the
contents of one's pocket, backpack, or other container to inclement
weather.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0021] Reference to the accompanying drawings will provide a
clearer understanding of the wearable foldout map and document
holder. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, the drawings
show the presently preferred embodiment of the invention. It should
be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the
precise configurations and instrumentalities shown in the
drawings.
[0022] FIG. 1: depicts the wearable foldout map and document holder
as worn on a user's forearm.
[0023] FIG. 2: depicts the invention with the enclosure flap partly
open.
[0024] FIG. 3: is an elevation view of the invention with the
enclosure flap open and with the folding document carrier detached
from the base member and enclosure flap.
[0025] FIG. 4: is a plan view of the backing layer of the base
member.
[0026] FIG. 5: is a plan view of the upper layer of the base member
that also depicts the trapezoidal extensions of the base member and
the system of straps.
[0027] FIG. 6: is a partially exploded plan view of the backing
layer and upper layer of the base member, illustrating how the
backing layer and upper layer are attached.
[0028] FIG. 7: is a plan view of the interior layer of the
enclosure flap, depicting the surface of the interior layer that
faces the base member when the enclosure flap is selectively
secured to the base member.
[0029] FIG. 8: is a plan view of the outer layer of the enclosure
flap, depicting the surface of the outer layer that faces outward
when worn over the user's limb.
[0030] FIG. 9: is a partially exploded plan view of the interior
layer and outer layer of the enclosure flap, illustrating how the
interior layer and outer layer of the enclosure flap are
attached.
[0031] FIG. 10: depicts the folding document carrier being
opened.
[0032] FIG. 11: is a partially exploded view of the invention,
depicting the sheets of the folding document carrier and depicting
the base member and enclosure flap in the fully open position.
[0033] FIG. 12: is a plan view of the base member, the enclosure
flap and the document carrier, which depicts the means of attaching
the folding document carrier to the base member and enclosure
flap.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the wearable foldout map and
document holder (10) may be worn on the user's arm, over a ski
jacket, and provides a convenient way to carry and reference a
trail map. As depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, and as further described
in the following paragraphs, the wearable foldout map and document
holder (10) comprises a base member (11) and an enclosure flap (17)
that is pivotally attached to the base member. The enclosure flap
(17) may be selectively secured to the base member (11) by a
fastener, such as a hook and loop fastener (16a, 16b), so as to
form an enclosure. In the presently preferred embodiment, a folding
document carrier (25) may be attached to the interior surfaces of
the base member (11) and enclosure flap (17). When folded, the
folding document carrier (25) fits within the enclosure formed
between the base member (11) and enclosure flap (17) when the
enclosure flap (17) is selectively secured to the base member (11)
by means of said fastener (16a , 16b). Referring to FIG. 11, a map
or other document may be inserted between the layers of the folding
document carrier (25). A top sheet (26b) of transparent material
allows the user to view the map or document without removing it
from the folding document carrier (25).
[0035] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6, the wearable foldout map and
document holder (10) includes a base member (11) having a
rectangular central portion. In the presently preferred embodiment,
the base member (11) comprises a backing layer (12a), and an upper
layer (12b). The backing layer of the base member (12a) is
typically constructed of durable nonslip material, such as textured
neoprene, and is intended to be worn over the user's forearm and in
contact with the user's jacket when the user is engaged in, for
example, downhill skiing. The backing layer of the base member
(12a) is stitched at side seams (13) or otherwise attached to the
upper layer of the base member (12b). The upper layer of the base
member (12b) is typically constructed of light- or mid-weight
durable textile, such as rip-stop nylon or pack cloth. The base
member (11) is typically provided with a pair of trapezoidal
extensions (14, 15) of the rectangular central portion that are
disposed along two opposite edges of the rectangular central
portion in order to allow the wearable foldout map and document
holder (10) to conform more readily to the user's forearm. In the
presently preferred embodiment, the trapezoidal extensions (14, 15)
are formed from the same sheet of textile material as the upper
layer of the base member (12b). As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 6, in
the presently preferred embodiment, the first trapezoidal extension
(14) is provided with the loop element (16a) of a hook and loop
fastener (16a, 16b) for selectively securing an enclosure flap (17)
to the upper layer of the base member (12b) by engaging a companion
hook element (16b) that is provided on the enclosure flap (17). It
is recognized that a variety of fastening systems could be used to
selectively secure the enclosure flap (17) to the upper layer of
the base member (12b). In some variations, to create a finished
appearance, the outer edges of the material comprising the upper
layer of the base member (12b) and trapezoidal extensions (14, 15)
will be covered by edging material during manufacture. It is
further recognized that the manufacturer may wish to interpose
padding or other filler material between the backing layer and
upper layer of the base member.
[0036] Referring to FIGS. 7, 8 and 9, the wearable foldout map and
document holder (10) is also provided with an enclosure flap (17).
In the presently preferred embodiment the enclosure flap (17) is
substantially symmetrical to, but slightly smaller than the
rectangular central portion of the base member (11). The enclosure
flap is typically constructed with an interior layer (18a) and
outer layer (18b) of light- or mid-weight durable textile, such as
rip-stop nylon or pack cloth. The interior layer (18a) and outer
layer (18b) are stitched together at side seams (19) or otherwise
attached. The enclosure flap (17) is pivotally attached to the base
member (11). In the presently preferred embodiment, said pivotal
attachment is achieved by means of a textile hinge (22). The
textile hinge (22) is generally comprised of mid- or heavy-weight
durable textile material. The textile hinge (22) provides strength
at a point where components may be stressed during use and provides
flexibility between the components of the wearable foldout map and
document holder (10). Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the textile hinge
(22) is typically stitched (23a) or otherwise attached to the upper
layer of the base member (12b) adjacent to the second trapezoidal
extension of the base member (15) and parallel with the base of
said trapezoidal extension. Referring to FIGS. 7, 8 and 9, the
textile hinge (22) is, in turn, interposed and stitched (23b) or
otherwise attached between the interior layer of the enclosure flap
(18a) and outer layer of the enclosure flap (18b) along one edge of
the enclosure flap (17), allowing the enclosure flap to be
positioned so as to overlay the upper layer of the base member
(12b). It is recognized that the enclosure flap (17) could be
pivotally attached to the base member (11) by a variety of means
and that the pivotal attachment could be made along any edge of the
base member (11) and enclosure flap (17).
[0037] In the presently preferred embodiment, a pull tab (20) is
provided on the edge of the enclosure flap (17) opposite that which
is pivotally attached to the base member (11). Typically the pull
tab (20) is constructed from nylon webbing, or other material
having appropriate strength and flexibility, and is attached to the
enclosure flap (17) by interposing a length of the nylon webbing
between the interior layer of the enclosure flap (18a) and outer
layer of the enclosure flap (18b) and stitching (21) the pull tab
in place. The pull tab (20) allows the user to more easily
manipulate the enclosure flap (17) while wearing gloves.
[0038] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 7, the pull tab (20) is
typically provided with one element of a fastener (16b) for
selectively securing the enclosure flap (17) to the upper layer of
the base member (12b) by engaging a complementary fastener element
(16a). In the presently preferred embodiment, the fastener (16a,
16b) comprises hook and loop elements that are provided on the pull
tab (20, 16b) and on the first trapezoidal extension of the base
member (14, 16a), as depicted. By pressing together the elements of
the fastener (16a, 16b), the enclosure flap (17) may be selectively
secured to the upper layer of the base member (12b) such that the
enclosure flap (17) overlays the upper layer of the base member
(12b). When the enclosure flap (17) is selectively secured to the
upper layer of the base member (12b), an enclosure is formed
between the upper layer of the base member (12b) and the interior
layer of the enclosure flap (18a). It is recognized that a variety
of fastening systems could be used to selectively secure the
enclosure flap (17) to the upper layer of the base member (12b). As
with the base member (11), in some embodiments, to create finished
edges, the outer edges of the material comprising the interior
layer of the enclosure flap (18a) and outer layer of the enclosure
flap (18b) may be covered by edging material during manufacture. It
is further recognized that the manufacturer may wish to interpose
padding or other filler material between the interior layer (18a)
and outer layer (18b) of the enclosure flap.
[0039] Referring to FIGS. 8, and 9, in the presently preferred
embodiment, the outer layer of the enclosure flap (18b) is provided
with a display pouch (24) that may be used to display a ski pass or
other identifying document. The display pouch (24) is typically
constructed with a transparent vinyl patch (24a) that is stitched
along three edges (24b) or otherwise attached to the outer layer of
the enclosure flap (18b). Edging material (24c) generally surrounds
the transparent vinyl patch (24a) along the three edges that are
stitched to the outer layer of the enclosure flap (18b). The edging
material (24c) provides strength and creates a finished appearance.
A display pouch closure flap (24d) is stitched or otherwise
attached to the outer layer of the enclosure flap (18b), adjacent
to the edge of the transparent vinyl patch (24a) that is not
stitched to the outer layer of the enclosure flap (18b). A fastener
(24e), typically made from snaps or tabs of hook and loop material,
allows the display pouch closure flap (24d) to be secured to the
transparent vinyl patch (24a), thus preventing the user's
identifying document from falling out of the display pouch (24). It
is recognized that a variety of fasteners could be used to secure
the display pouch closure flap (24d) to the transparent vinyl patch
(24a) so as to ensure that the user's identifying document does not
fall out of the display pouch.
[0040] In an alternative embodiment, the display pouch may be
created by making a rectangular opening in the outer layer of the
enclosure flap (18b), and then interposing a patch of transparent
vinyl, along with a lightweight backing layer, between the layers
of the enclosure flap (18a, 18b) so as to overlap said rectangular
opening. In said alternative embodiment, the patch of transparent
vinyl and lightweight backing layer is typically symmetrical to,
but larger than, said rectangular opening. The patch of transparent
vinyl is stitched or otherwise attached to the outer layer of the
enclosure flap (18b) along the perimeter of said rectangular
opening. The lightweight backing layer is stitched or otherwise
attached to the outer layer of the enclosure flap (18b) along three
edges, forming a pocket for receiving a ski pass or other
identifying document between the patch of transparent vinyl and the
lightweight backing layer. Typically an insertion opening is made
in one of the layers of the enclosure flap (18a, 18b) or along the
seam between said layers of the enclosure flap. In another possible
embodiment, the transparent vinyl patch is attached on all edges to
the outer layer of the enclosure flap (18b) and a small slit is
made in the transparent vinyl patch to allow the user to insert an
identifying document. This embodiment allows the manufacturer to
forego the display pouch closure flap (24d).
[0041] Referring to FIG. 3, the wearable foldout map and document
holder (10) also comprises a folding document carrier (25). The
folding document carrier (25) is typically rectangular in shape.
When folded, the folding document carrier (25) fits within the
enclosure formed when the enclosure flap (17) is selectively
secured to the upper layer of the base member (12b). As depicted by
FIG. 10, when the enclosure flap (17) is opened, the folding
document carrier may be unfolded to allow the user to reference a
map or other document. In the presently preferred embodiment, the
folding document carrier may be folded and unfolded along a
plurality of vertical fold lines (30) and horizontal fold lines
(31).
[0042] Referring to FIG. 11, in the presently preferred embodiment,
the folding document carrier (25) comprises a bottom sheet (26a),
typically constructed of lightweight textile, such as rip-stop
nylon, and a top sheet (26b) of foldable transparent material,
typically constructed of transparent vinyl. Typically, the top
sheet (26b) and bottom sheet (26a) are stitched together at side
seams (27) or otherwise attached along three edges so as to form a
pocket, allowing a map or other document to be inserted through the
unattached edge (29). In an alternative embodiment, the top sheet
(26b) and bottom sheet (26a) are stitched together or otherwise
attached along four edges and the map or document is inserted
between the top sheet (26b) and bottom sheet (26a) through a slit
in the top sheet (26b). The transparent top sheet (26b) allows the
user to view a map or document without removing the map or document
from the folding document carrier (25). In some embodiments, edging
material (28) will be used when stitching the edges of the bottom
sheet (26a) and top sheet (26b) in order to create finished edges
and to provide strength.
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 12, in the presently preferred
embodiment, the folding document carrier (25) may be fastened to
the upper layer of the base member (12b) and the interior layer of
the enclosure flap (18a) by means of a fastening system (32-34). In
the presently preferred embodiment, said fastening system (32-34)
comprises hook and loop fasteners that are provided on the upper
layer of the base member (32a) and interior layer of the enclosure
flap (32b). As depicted in FIGS. 3 and 12, two strips of loop
material (32a) are attached to the upper layer of the base member
(12b) and two strips of loop material (32b) are attached to the
interior layer of the enclosure flap (18a). In the presently
preferred embodiment, corresponding strips of hook material (33,
34) provided on the bottom sheet of the folding document carrier
(26a) allow the folding document carrier (25) to be fastened to the
base member (11) and enclosure flap (17) so as to facilitate
wearing the wearable foldout map and document holder (10) on the
right or left arm. To facilitate wearing the wearable foldout map
and document holder (10) on the right arm, four strips of hook
material (33) are attached to the bottom sheet of the folding
document carrier (26a), as depicted. When the folding document
carrier (25) is fastened to the upper layer of the base member
(12b) and interior layer of the enclosure flap (18a) in the
right-handed configuration, the unattached edge of the folding
document carrier (29) aligns in the direction of the user's right
hand when the wearable foldout map and document holder (10) is worn
on the right forearm. To facilitate wearing the wearable foldout
map and document holder (10) on the left arm, two additional strips
of hook material (34) are attached to the bottom sheet of the
folding document carrier, as depicted. When the folding document
carrier (25) is fastened to the upper layer of the base member
(12b) and interior layer of the enclosure flap (18a) in the
left-handed configuration, the unattached edge of the folding
document carrier (29) aligns in the direction of the user's left
hand when the wearable foldout map and document holder (10) is worn
on the left forearm. Typically, the manufacturer would provide
protective covering strips, made from strips of loop material with
non-abrasive backing, to prevent the unused strips of hook material
from abrading the folding document carrier when in the folded
position. In addition, it is recognized that the manufacturer may
offset the elements of the fastening system (32-34), such that said
elements do not overlie when the folding document carrier is
collapsed and secured within the enclosure formed between the base
member (11) and enclosure flap (17) when the base member is
selectively secured to the enclosure flap. Such a configuration of
the elements of the fastening system (32-34) reduces the profile of
the wearable foldout map and document holder (10) when it is
collapsed to its non-use position.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 12, when properly aligned and
fastened by means of the fastening system (32-34) and folded, the
folding document carrier (25) fits within the enclosure formed
between the upper layer of the base member (12b) and the interior
layer of the enclosure flap (18a) when the enclosure flap (17) is
selectively secured to the base member (11). As illustrated in
FIGS. 10 and 11, when the enclosure flap (17) is opened, and the
folding document carrier (25) is unfolded, the user may view a map
or other document that has been inserted between the sheets of the
folding document carrier (26a, 26b).
[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the folding document carrier
(25) may be permanently attached to the base member (11), or to
both the base member (11) and enclosure flap (17). Typically, this
is achieved by stitching a portion of the bottom sheet of the
folding document carrier (26a) to the upper layer of the base
member (12b) or to both the upper layer of the base member (12b)
and interior layer of the enclosure flap (18a).
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in the presently preferred
embodiment, the wearable foldout map and document holder (10)
includes a system of adjustable straps (35a, 35b, 36a, 36b) for
wearing the wearable foldout map and document holder (10) against
the forearm or for securing the wearable foldout map and document
holder (10) to the user's personal effects. The strap system
typically comprises one or more straps with first and second
members that may be coupled together by means of fasteners. As
depicted by FIGS. 5 and 6, the presently preferred embodiment
utilizes two pairs of nylon webbing or elastic straps (35a, 35b;
36a, 36b) that are attached to the base member (11), typically by
stitching the straps to the trapezoidal extensions of the base
member (14, 15).
[0047] In an alternative embodiment, the straps may be removable
from the base member (11). In said alternative embodiment, the base
member (11) is typically manufactured with a pair of sleeves
running between the backing layer (12a) and upper layer (12b) of
the base member. Each sleeve is formed by stitching the backing
layer (12a) and upper layer (12b) of the base member together with
parallel rows of stitching, the distance between said rows being
slightly greater than the width of the strap material. Two openings
are made in each of the trapezoidal extensions of the base member
(14, 15), allowing access to said sleeves. The strap system
utilized in said alternative embodiment typically comprises two
lengths of strap material that may be threaded through said sleeves
via the openings made in each of the trapezoidal extensions of the
base member (14, 15). Each length of strap material is provided
with fasteners for wearing the wearable foldout map and document
holder (10) against the forearm or for securing the wearable
foldout map and document holder (10) to the user's personal
effects.
[0048] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in the presently preferred
embodiment, the first strap members (35a, 36a), may be coupled to
the corresponding second strap members (35b, 36b) by means of
fasteners, such as adjustable side-lock buckles (37a, 37b, 38a,
38b). As depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6, the male element of the
side-lock buckles (37b, 38b), which are provided with adjustable
slides, are attached to the second strap members (35b, 36b). The
corresponding female element of the side-lock buckles (37a, 38a)
are attached to the first strap members (35a, 36a). The male
element of the side-lock buckles (37b, 38b) may be coupled with the
female element of the side-lock buckles (37a, 38a), allowing the
user to wear the wearable foldout map and document holder (10) on
their forearm or otherwise attach it to their personal effects. It
is recognized that a variety of fastening systems could be used to
couple the first strap members (35a, 36a) to the second strap
members (35b, 36b).
[0049] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in the presently preferred
embodiment, an elastic element (39, 40) is incorporated into the
first strap members (35a, 36a). Typically, the elastic elements are
comprised of elongate sections of elastic material with the same or
similar width as the strap--members. The elastic elements (39, 40)
are shorter in their relaxed state than the first strap members
(35a, 36a). The elastic elements (39, 40) are attached at one end
to each of the first strap members (35a, 36a) at or near the points
where the strap members are attached to the first trapezoidal
extension of the base member (14). The other end of the elastic
elements (39, 40) are attached to the first strap member (35a, 36a)
at or near where the female buckles (37a, 38a) are attached to the
strap members. When worn over the user's forearm, the elastic
elements (39, 40) produce compression, which allows the wearable
foldout map and document holder (10) to fit snuggly against the
user's forearm without creating discomfort.
[0050] In an alternative embodiment, the first and/or second strap
members may be comprised of elastic material that is surrounded by
a sheath of tubular nylon webbing. In said alternative embodiment,
one end of the elastic material and one end of the surrounding
sheath of tubular nylon webbing are typically stitched or otherwise
attached to the first trapezoidal extensions of the base member
(14). The sheath of tubular nylon webbing is compressed lengthwise
around the elastic material. While the sheath of tubular nylon
webbing is compressed, the opposite end of the elastic material
from that which is attached to the first trapezoidal extension of
the base member (14) is attached to the sheath of tubular nylon
webbing, typically by stitching the elastic material and the sheath
of tubular nylon together. Compressing the sheath of tubular nylon
webbing before attaching it to the end of the elastic material
allows the elastic material comprising the straps to stretch in
order to create a snug fit around the limb of the user. At the same
time, the sheath of tubular nylon webbing provides strength and
protects the elastic material from abrasion. In another alternative
embodiment, one or more of the strap members may be made entirely
of elastic material. A different fastening system than the system
of side-lock buckles described above may be preferable in said
alternative embodiment. Such a configuration is, however, within
the purview of the invention. It is recognized that a variety of
strap systems could be used to attach the wearable foldout map and
document holder (10) to the user's forearm or to the user's
personal effects. It is understood that in some applications, it
may be desirable to provide a breakaway mechanism as part of the
system of straps.
[0051] It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that the
wearable foldout map and document holder of this invention provides
a convenient way to store a map or document on the user's person
while engaged in physical activity. It will further be recognized
that the invention provides a viewing area for referencing the
stored document that is significantly larger than the area the
invention occupies on the user's arm when the invention is not in
use. It will further be recognized that the invention provides a
quick and easy way to reference a map or document during inclement
weather without removing gloves and that the invention minimizes
the need to expose the contents of jacket pockets or backpack
compartments to rain or snow. The advantages of the invention are
particularly applicable while skiing or while engaging in other
outdoor activity during cold or harsh weather. While the presently
preferred embodiments have been described, it should be recognized
and understood that various modifications can be made in the
invention. The appended claims are intended to cover all such
modifications that may fall within the purview and scope of the
invention.
* * * * *