U.S. patent application number 13/351375 was filed with the patent office on 2012-05-10 for carrying cases with amusement features.
This patent application is currently assigned to PATENT CATEGORY CORP.. Invention is credited to Yu Zheng.
Application Number | 20120111912 13/351375 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25097241 |
Filed Date | 2012-05-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120111912 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zheng; Yu |
May 10, 2012 |
Carrying Cases with Amusement Features
Abstract
A carrying case has a storage section that has at least one
storage compartment for receiving articles. An amusement feature is
provided with the carrying case. The amusement feature can be an
electronic device, or a non-electronic device. The amusement
feature can be provided on an outer surface of the carrying case,
on an inner panel disposed inside the storage section, on a pouch
attached to the storage section, or at any internal or external
location of the carrying case.
Inventors: |
Zheng; Yu; (Walnut,
CA) |
Assignee: |
PATENT CATEGORY CORP.
Walnut
CA
|
Family ID: |
25097241 |
Appl. No.: |
13/351375 |
Filed: |
January 17, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12799862 |
May 3, 2010 |
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13351375 |
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11710030 |
Feb 23, 2007 |
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12799862 |
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10910080 |
Aug 2, 2004 |
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11710030 |
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09773113 |
Jan 31, 2001 |
6769588 |
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10910080 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
224/576 ;
190/109 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 15/00 20130101;
A45C 5/14 20130101; A45F 3/04 20130101; A45F 4/02 20130101; Y10S
224/929 20130101; Y10S 224/93 20130101; A63H 33/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/576 ;
190/109 |
International
Class: |
A45C 3/00 20060101
A45C003/00; A45C 15/00 20060101 A45C015/00 |
Claims
1-23. (canceled)
24. A carrying case, comprising: a storage section having at least
one storage compartment for receiving articles; a music player
associated with the storage section for generating music; means
coupled to the music player for broadcasting the generated music;
and means for electronically coupling the music player to the
broadcasting means, the coupling means having a portion thereof
secured to a part of the storage section.
25. The carrying case of claim 24, wherein the music player is
secured to an external part of the storage section.
26. The carrying case of claim 24, wherein the music player is
positioned inside the storage section.
27. The carrying case of claim 24, wherein the broadcasting means
is removable from the storage section.
28. The carrying case of claim 24, wherein the music player is
removable from the storage section.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to carrying cases, including
backpacks, knapsacks, schoolbags, travel bags, hand bags, duffel
bags, waist packs, note book cases, gym bags, briefcases, tote
bags, luggage, tool boxes, lunch boxes, ice chests and others. In
particular, the present invention relates to carrying cases have
amusement features incorporated therewith.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] As used herein, the term "carrying case" is intended to
include any container that can be carried by any child or adult,
the container being used to hold or retain virtually any item or
object. These carrying cases can include, but are not limited to,
backpacks, knapsacks, schoolbags, travel bags, hand bags, duffel
bags, waist packs, note book cases, gym bags, briefcases, tote
bags, tool boxes, lunch boxes, ice chests and luggage.
[0005] Conventional carrying cases have become increasingly
popular, and the uses for these carrying cases have significantly
increased. Both children and adults have found new and interesting
uses for carrying cases, and manufacturers have often even modified
specific types of carrying cases specifically for use by children.
For example, portable luggage items, such as tote bags or carry-on
bags with wheels, have been provided in smaller sizes, in striking
colors, and.sup.-with animated depictions of cartoon characters
sewed thereon, for use by children. Unfortunately, most of these
conventional carrying cases only serve a single purpose, which is
to store items and objects. Most of these conventional carrying
cases do not provide much, if any, amusement to the user.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
carrying case which has an amusement associated therewith.
[0007] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
carrying case having an amusement that includes electronic games
and devices.
[0008] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a carrying case that can be used for additional purposes other than
to carry items and objects.
[0009] The present invention provides a carrying case having a
storage section that has at least one storage compartment for
receiving articles. An amusement feature is provided with the
carrying case. The amusement feature can be an electronic device,
or a non-electronic device. The amusement feature can be provided
on an outer surface of the carrying case, on an inner panel
disposed inside the storage section, on a pouch attached to the
storage section, or at any internal or external location of the
carrying case.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a carrying case according to
one embodiment of the present invention shown with its front panel
opened.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the carrying case of FIG. 1
shown with its front panel closed.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a carrying case according to
another embodiment of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 4A is an exploded perspective view of a speaker unit of
the knapsack of FIG. 3.
[0014] FIG. 4B is an exploded cross-sectional view of the speaker
unit of FIG. 4A.
[0015] FIG. 5 is an exploded sectional view illustrating the
electrical couplings between the speaker unit and touch pads of the
knapsack of FIG. 3.
[0016] FIGS. 6-8 are perspective views of carrying cases according
to other embodiments of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the backing in FIG.
8.
[0018] FIGS. 10-13 are perspective views of carrying cases
according to other embodiments of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the carrying case of FIG.
13.
[0020] FIG. 15 is a side cross-sectional view of the carrying case
of FIG. 13.
[0021] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a carrying case according
to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 17A is a side cross-sectional view of the carrying case
of FIG. 16.
[0023] FIG. 17B is a sectional view of the electronic device of
FIG. 16.
[0024] FIGS. 18-23 are perspective views of carrying cases
according to other embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] The following detailed description is of the best presently
contemplated modes of carrying out the invention. This description
is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the
purpose of illustrating general principles of embodiments of the
invention. The scope of the invention is best defined by the
appended claims.
[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, one embodiment of the present invention
is a knapsack 20 that can have amusement features incorporated
therewith. The knapsack 20 enables hand-free carrying of books,
lunch boxes, and other items, and is constructed of a front panel
22, side panels 24 and 26, a bottom panel 28, a top panel 29, and a
rear panel 30 interconnected with each other, such as by stitching,
to form an enclosed storage space. The front panel 22 and the rear
panel 30 are substantially flat (i.e., planar) and have a generally
rectangular shape to provide the knapsack with a generally
rectangular appearance. The front panel 22 can be attached along
peripheral edges thereof to opposed side panels 24, 26 and the top
panel 29 by a zipper 32 having at least one zipper tab interacting
with two intermeshing tracks, a first track 34 on the peripheral
edges of the front panel 22, and a second track 36 extending along
the side panels 24, 26 and the top panel 29. The side panels 24, 26
and the top panel 29 can be designed to completely overlie the
zipper 32 to obscure the zipper 32. The front panel 22 can be
pivoted about its bottom edge 31 and the bottom edge 33 of the
bottom panel 28, as shown by the arrows 35. Each of the panels 22,
24, 26, 28, 29, 30 (including inner panel 46 described below) can
be made from any fabric material (e.g., nylon, cloth, hard cotton),
vinyl or leather.
[0027] A pair of adjustable straps 38, 40 are attached at ends
thereof (e.g., by stitching) to spaced-apart locations along the
rear panel 30. Each strap 38, 40 can include conventional
adjustment mechanisms, such as an adjustment buckle, which allows
for adjustment of the amount of space between the straps 38, 40 and
the rear panel 30 to fit the wearer of the knapsack 20. In
addition, a handle 42 can be secured to the top panel 29 to allow
the knapsack 20 be lifted and carried by hand. A storage pouch 44
can also be stitched to the side panel 26 to function as a side
pocket for retaining certain smaller items (e.g., keys).
[0028] Although the above-described type and arrangement of panels
22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 30, zipper 32, straps 38, 40, handle 42, and
pouch 44 are illustrated in FIG. 1, these elements are standard in
the manufacture of knapsacks, and those skilled in the art will
appreciate that many different constructions, arrangements and
elements can be provided for the carrying case of the present
invention.
[0029] The knapsack 20 further includes an inner panel 46 that can
be coupled to the side panels 24, 26 and the top panel 29. For
example, the inner panel 46 can be attached along peripheral edges
thereof to the side panels 24, 26 and the top panel 29 by
stitching. Another zipper 48 having at least one zipper tab
interacting with two intermeshing tracks 50 can be provided along
the side panels 24, 26 and the top panel 29 to provide access to a
first enclosed space that is defined by the side panels 24, 26, the
bottom panel 28, the top panel 29, the rear panel 30, and the inner
panel 46. A second enclosed space is defined by the front panel 22,
the side panels 24, 26, the bottom panel 28, the top panel 29, and
the inner panel 46. Thus, the inner panel 46 can act as a divider
for dividing the enclosed storage space into the first and second
enclosed spaces. The inner panel 46 can assume the same shape as
the front panel 22 and the rear panel 30.
[0030] The surface 52 of the inner panel 46 that faces the front
panel 22 can be provided with an amusement feature, such as a
circular hoop 54 having a net 56 of interwoven material strips. The
hoop 54 can be pivotably secured to the inner panel 46 using any
known or conventional means, including but not limited to the use
of mounting brackets (as illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 5,819,998,
whose disclosure is incorporated by this reference as though fully
set forth herein), straps and stitching, or other mechanisms known
in the art. The hoop 54 can be pivoted about the arrow 66 from the
position shown in FIG. 1 (where the hoop 54 is generally
perpendicular to the inner panel 46) to a position where the hoop
54 is generally parallel to, and collapsed against, the inner panel
46.
[0031] In addition, a rectangular opening 58 can be cut from the
bottom of the inner panel 46 and used as a soccer or hockey-type
goal. The inner surface 60 of the front panel 22 can be provided
with indicia 62 for marking a soccer or other field. It is also
possible to provide removable or releasable attachment mechanisms
(e.g., opposing VELCRO.TM. straps 64) on the facing surfaces 52 and
60 of the inner panel 46 and the front panel 22, respectively, to
allow the panels 22 and 46 to be closed.
[0032] As a result, the knapsack 20 can be used by the user as a
ball toss game in addition to its normal usage as a storage bag.
The user can unzip the zipper 32 to open the front panel 22,
exposing the hoop 54 and soccer goal 58, so that the user can take
a ball 68 (which can be stored in the knapsack 20) and either toss
it at the hoop 54, or roll or kick the ball 68 at the goal 58.
[0033] The knapsack 20 can contain additional features. For
example, FIG. 2 illustrates the knapsack 20 of FIG. 1 having
another hoop 70 and net 72 provided on the outer surface 74 of the
front panel 22 in the same manner as for attaching the hoop 54 to
the surface 52. An open pouch or pocket 76 can be stitched to the
outer surface 74 directly below the hoop 70 to catch or receive any
ball 68 that has passed through the hoop 70. An outer pocket or
pouch 78 can be even be stitched to the pouch 76 to provide
additional compartmentalized storage space.
[0034] FIG. 3 illustrates a knapsack 20a that is the same as the
knapsack 20 of
[0035] FIGS. 1 and 2, except that the inner panel 46a is provided
with different amusement features. Therefore, the same numerals are
used to designate the same corresponding elements in both FIGS. 1
and 3, except that an "a" has been added to the corresponding
elements in FIG. 3. In the knapsack 20a of FIG. 3, an electronic
amusement feature is provided in the form of a speaker unit 90 that
is coupled to a plurality of touch pads 92 by an electronic
coupling path 94. The speaker unit 90, touch pads 92 and coupling
path 94 are attached to the surface 52a of the inner panel 46a.
[0036] For example, FIGS. 4A, 4B and 5 illustrate how the speaker
unit 90 can be attached to the material of the inner panel 46a. The
speaker unit 90 can comprise a housing that is made up of an outer
shell 98 and and inner shell 100. A PC board 102 has a speaker 104
and associated circuitry (e.g., pads 106, chips that might include
a processor, etc., as is well known in the art) mounted or provided
thereon, and can even have a power source (e.g., batteries 108)
coupled thereto for providing power to drive the speaker unit 90
and the touch pads 92 via the coupling path 94. The PC board 102
can be positioned against the surface 52a of the inner panel 46a,
and then the outer shell 98 placed over the PC board 102 and the
surface 52a, and the inner shell 100 placed against the rear
surface 110 of the inner panel 46a at the same position as the
outer shell 98. The shells 98 and 100 can then be secured together
(with the PC board 102 retained inside outer shell 98) by using
screws 112 that are threadably inserted through corresponding holes
103 and 105 in the shells 98 and 100, respectively, and the
material of the inner panel 46a. The outer shell 98 can be provided
with a plurality of small openings 114 to allow sound from the
speaker 104 to be emitted therethrough.
[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates one method for electrically coupling the
touch pads 96 and speaker unit 90. A plurality of touch pads 96 are
attached (e.g., by glue or stitching) to selected locations on the
outer surface 52a of the inner panel 46a, and connected by
electrical couplings 118 to each other and to the speaker unit 90.
The electrical couplings 118 therefore form the coupling path 94,
and in one embodiment can be wires. A fabric or other cover 122 can
be provided which is configured or cut to follow the path created
by the touch pads 96 and the wires 118. Specific indicia 124 can be
stitched or otherwise attached to the locations on the cover 122
that would overlie the corresponding touch pads 92. The cover 122
is then stitched (along stitch lines 126) to the surface 52a of the
inner panel 46a to cover and protect the touch pads 92 and wires
118.
[0038] As an alternative, the electrical couplings 118 can be
conductive paths. Each conductive path 118 can include the
conductive lines, stripes, traces, compositions, inks, liquids,
pastes, granules and colored inks, and can utilize the electrical
systems and attachment techniques, described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,455,749 to Ferber, U.S. Pat. No. 5,371,657 to Wiscombe, U.S. Pat.
No. 5,626,948 to Ferber et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,420 to
Kaiserman et al., whose disclosures are incorporated by this
reference as though fully set forth herein, as well as any
electrical systems and attachment techniques that are known in the
art. One non-limiting example of a material that can be used as a
conductive ink is a material sold under the tradename 102-05F by
Creative Materials of Tyngsboro, Mass. Other materials are
described in one or more of U.S. Pat. No. 5,455,749 to Ferber, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,371,657 to Wiscombe, U.S. Pat. No. 5,626,948 to Ferber
et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,420 to Kaiserman et al.
[0039] Each touch pad 92 can carry a different indicia 124 (e.g.,
character, letter, number, etc.), and all the touch pads 92 can
together form a path for a game or activity. The variety and
amusement value of these games and activities, including any
computer-programmed games, will depend on the amusement features
provided with the knapsack 20a. A screen (e.g., 91 provided in the
housing of the speaker unit 90) can even be used to display the
results of these games, which can be measured by, for example,
sensors on the touch pads 92.
[0040] As yet another example, the amusement features can provide
the basis for educational games. For example, the speaker unit 90
can broadcast tasks that require a child to do a broadcasted task
several times, and having the child count the number of times that
the task has been performed. As another example, numbered graphics
can be provided on the touch pads 92 and coupled (via the
conductive paths and wiring described above) to a processor on the
PC board 102, which can control a game in which the different
numbered graphics are made to light up at different times, in which
a child is to follow lighted graphics on the touch pads 92 in (a)
moving about the path created by the touch pads 92, (b) recognizing
and repeating the lighted numbers, and (c) adding the lighted
number to the previous sum, among others. The speaker unit 90 can
make announcements, emit congratulatory praises, or emit any other
desired sounds or music. Other variations and themes for games
utilizing numbered graphics are also possible, and can vary based
on the educational or other objective(s) that are intended to be
accomplished.
[0041] As a further non-limiting example, the touch pads 92, screen
91 and speaker 104 can even be the components that make up an
interactive computer system that is capable of communicating (e.g.,
via wireless transmission as illustrated in FIG. 11 below) with
other computing systems. Thus, the carrying case 20a can actually
form an "interactive" or "computing" station for a user, where the
user can use the touch pads 92 as input devices, and the screen 91
as an output device, for playing games, doing word processing,
surfing the Internet, and communicating with other computing
systems.
[0042] FIG. 6 illustrates a knapsack 20b that is the same as the
knapsack 20 of FIGS. 1 and 2, except that the knapsack 20b is
provided with different amusement features. Therefore, the same
numerals are used to designate the same corresponding elements in
both FIGS. 1 and 6, except that a "b" has been added to the
corresponding elements in FIG. 6. In the knapsack 20b of FIG. 6, a
game board 130 is provided on the surface 52b of the inner panel
46b. The game board 130 can be a fabric piece that is stitched on
to the surface 52b, or can be formed by a stitch pattern that makes
up the desired game board design. In addition, a radio 132 can be
associated with the pouch 44b. For example, the radio 132 can be
provided with a housing (having outer and inner shells) similar to
the speaker unit 90 illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and attached to
the outer panel 134 of the pouch 44b in the same manner illustrated
in FIGS. 4A and 4B, so that the controls and dials 136 of the radio
132 can extend outside the pouch 44b for the user to manipulate. As
a result, the pouch 44b can still be used for storage. Yet another
amusement feature associated with the knapsack 20b is another
electronic appliance 138 (such as a speaker unit, CD player,
cassette player, screen display, etc.) that can be attached to the
outer pouch 78b in the same manner that the radio 132 is attached
to the pouch 44b. Thus, the knapsack 20b provides the user with a
variety of different amusement features: a game board for use in
playing a game, a radio for listening to music or the news, and
another electronic appliance, such as a CD or cassette player for
playing the user's favorite music.
[0043] FIG. 7 illustrates a knapsack 20c that is the same as the
knapsack 20 of FIGS. 1 and 2, except that the knapsack 20c is
provided with different amusement features. Therefore, the same
numerals are used to designate the same corresponding elements in
both FIGS. 1 and 7, except that a "c" has been added to the
corresponding elements in FIG. 7. In the knapsack 20c of FIG. 7, a
stuffed toy 140 (like a teddy bear) can be attached (e.g., by
stitching) to the outer surface 74c of the front panel 22c. The
stuffed toy 140 can house a conventional electronic playstation,
music machine, or other electronic device having, for example, a
processor utilizing technology that is well-known in the art. A
user can insert game cartridges 142 into a game port 144 in the
stuffed toy 140. For example, the game cartridge 142 can contain
recorded music that can be played by a speaker 146 built in to the
stuffed toy 140. Alternatively, the cartridge 142 can contain
software that controls movements of the arms 148 of the stuffed toy
140.
[0044] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention in the form of another knapsack 160. The knapsack 160 is
similar to knapsack 20, except that instead of well-defined panels
22, 24, 26, 28, 29, and 30 interconnected with each other, the main
body of the knapsack 160 is formed like a large pouch. In addition,
the knapsack 160 has an upper lid or cover 162 having one end that
pivots from the rear panel 164 to cover the top opening of the
knapsack 160, and an opposing end that is secured to the front
panel 166 by any conventional means used by bags and handbags, such
as by buckles, snaps, hooks, Velcro.TM. pads, loops, and the like.
A pair of adjustable straps 168, 170 are attached at ends thereof
(e.g., by stitching) to spaced-apart locations along the rear panel
164. A storage pouch 172 can also be stitched to the side panel 174
to function as a side pocket for retaining certain smaller items
(e.g., a notepad or cellular phone 176).
[0045] The outer surface 178 of the front panel 166 is provided
with removable or releasable attachment mechanisms (e.g.,
VELCRO.TM. pads 180 as shown in FIG. 8, or hooks, straps, buckles,
loops, etc.) for removably coupling one or more amusement features.
For example, an electronic device 182 (such as one or more of a
mini game computer, a speaker, a CD-player, a display screen, among
others) can be provided on a backing or support 184 (see also FIG.
9). The backing 184 can be made from a hard fabric, cardboard, or
any similar material that has sufficient rigidity to support the
electronic device, yet is sufficiently lightweight. The electronic
device 182 can be provided with a housing (having outer and inner
shells) similar to the speaker unit 90 illustrated in FIGS. 4A and
4B, and attached to the backing 84 in the same manner illustrated
in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The rear surface 186 of the backing 184 can
have a complementary removable attachment mechanism (e.g.,
VELCRO.TM. pads 180) for removably attaching the backing 184 to the
outer surface 178 of the front panel 166. Thus, the knapsack 160
provides the user with the variety and flexibility of changing the
amusement feature on the front panel 166, since a plurality of
different amusement features (electronic or non-electronic) can be
provided for removable attachment to the front panel 166.
[0046] FIG. 10 illustrates a knapsack 20d that is the same as the
knapsack 20 of FIGS. 1 and 2, except that the inner panel 46d is
provided with different amusement features. Therefore, the same
numerals are used to designate the same corresponding elements in
both FIGS. 1 and 10, except that a "d" has been added to the
corresponding elements in FIG. 10. In the knapsack 20d of FIG. 10,
a game board 190 is provided on the surface 52d of the inner panel
46d. The game board 190 can be a fabric piece that is stitched on
to the surface 52d, or can be formed by a stitch pattern that makes
up the desired game board design. Alternatively, a fabric piece
having the game board 190 (or any other pattern, indicia or design)
provided thereon can be stitched to the surface 52d in a manner to
form a sleeve. In particular, opposing edges 194 and 196 of the
game board fabric 190 can be stitched to the surface 52d, and an
external pad 198 can be slid into the sleeve to function as a
support for the game board 190. The pad 198 can be removed if
desired.
[0047] The pad 198 functions to provide a solid or rigid backing
for the game board 190 or other feature. The pad 198 can be made
from a lightweight material that is capable of providing
sufficiently rigidity to function as a game board or to support an
activity thereon, and can include materials such as, but not
limited to, cardboard, plastic, a thin metal sheet (such as
aluminum), wood, fiberglass, resin and foam, among others. The pad
198 can be provided in any desired size, but the pad 198 should
have a size that is at least large enough to provide a backing and
support for the game board 190. The pad 198 can be provided in a
corrugated form or with pre-folds 192 to allow the pad 198 to be
folded for storage. Finally, the inner surface 60d of the front
panel 22d can be provided with small pockets 197 that can be used
to hold game pieces 199 or other articles.
[0048] FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention which takes the form of a travel carrying case 200 that
can have amusement features incorporated therewith. The carrying
case 200 can be adapted to store clothing and other luggage items
during travel, or can even be used as a school bag. The carrying
case 200 is constructed of a front panel 202, side panels 204 and
206, a bottom panel (not shown), a top panel 210, and a rear panel
212 interconnected with each other, such as by stitching, to form
an enclosed storage space. The front panel 202 and the rear panel
212 are substantially flat (i.e., planar) and have a generally
rectangular shape to provide the carrying case 200 with a generally
rectangular appearance. The front panel 202 can be attached along
peripheral edges thereof to opposed side panels 204, 206 and the
top panel 210 by a zipper 214 having at least one zipper tab
interacting with two intermeshing tracks, a first track on the
peripheral edges of the front panel 202, and a second track
extending along the side panels 204, 206 and the top panel 210.
Each of the panels 202, 204, 206, 210, 212 can be made from any
fabric material (e.g., nylon, cloth, hard cotton) vinyl or
leather.
[0049] A handle 216 can be secured to the top panel 210 to allow
the carrying case 200 be lifted and carried by hand. A storage
pouch 218 can also be stitched to the side panel 206 to function as
a side pocket for retaining certain smaller items (e.g., keys). A
second storage pouch 220 can be stitched to the outer surface 222
of the front panel 202 adjacent the top panel 210. A third storage
pouch 224 can be stitched to the outer surface 222 of the front
panel 202 adjacent the bottom panel. An electronic device 226 (such
as one or more of a mini game computer, a speaker, a CD-player,
lights, a display screen, among others) can be provided with a
housing (having outer and inner shells) similar to the speaker unit
90 illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and then attached to the outer
panel 228 of the pouch 44b in the same manner illustrated in FIGS.
4A and 4B. A user can also insert game cartridges 230 into a game
port 232 in the side of the pouch 224. For example, the game
cartridge 230 can contain recorded music that can be played by a
speaker 232. Alternatively, the cartridge 230 can contain software
that controls the flashing or blinking of a plurality of lights
234. The interior of the pouch 224 can house a processor and
associated electronic components that allow game cartridges 230 to
control the operation of the electronic device(s) 226 using
techniques that are well-known in the art.
[0050] In addition, the carrying case 200 includes a slidable
handle 238 that is made up of two parallel vertical sliding bars
240, and a handle bar 242 connecting the top of the sliding bars
240. The sliding bars 240 can be lifted up and locked in use, or
can be slid downwardly into a sleeve or pocket (see sleeve 276 in
FIG. 15, for example) in the carrying case 200 to be retained
therein. Such slidable handles 238 are well-known in the luggage
art, and are not described in greater detail herein. In the
carrying case 200, an electronic device 244 can be provided between
and supported by the sliding bars 240. For example, a mini-computer
244 can have its housing either permanently (e.g., screwed or
welded) to the sliding bars 240, or can have its housing removably
coupled (e.g., by hooks, loops 246 as shown in FIG. 11, or
VELCRO.TM. pads, among others) to the sliding bars 240. Thus, the
mini-computer 244 can be stored in the sleeve or pocket (such as
276 in FIG. 15) in the carrying case 200 when the sliding bars 240
are lowered and stored. In addition, an antenna 248 can be
electrically coupled to the mini-computer 244 via a bar 240 so that
the mini-computer 244 can be used for wireless (e.g., RF)
communication with another remote computer.
[0051] Thus, the carrying case 200 provides the user with a wide
variety of amusement devices that can be provided on a pouch 224 on
the front panel 202, or even on the slidable handle 238.
[0052] FIG. 12 illustrates a carrying case 200a that is the same as
the carrying case 200 of FIG. 11, except for the different
amusement features noted below. Therefore, the same numerals are
used to designate the same corresponding elements in both FIGS. 11
and 12, except that an "a" has been added to the corresponding
elements in FIG. 12. In the carrying case 200a of FIG. 12, an
amusement feature can be provided in the form of a foldable
electronic device 250. The electronic device 250 (such as one or
more of a mini game computer, a speaker, a CD-player, a display
screen, among others) can be provided on a backing or support 252.
The backing 252 can be made from a hard fabric, cardboard, or any
similar material that has sufficient rigidity to support the
electronic device, yet is sufficiently lightweight. The electronic
device 250 can be provided with a housing (having outer and inner
shells) similar to the speaker unit 90 illustrated in FIGS. 4A and
4B, and attached to the backing 252 in the same manner illustrated
in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The backing 252 can have a lower edge 254 that
is hingedly connected (e.g., by stitching 255) to the front panel
202a at a location such that the backing 252 can be pivoted to two
separate positions: a use position with the rear surface of the
backing 252 facing the surface 222a of the front panel 202a, and a
storage position with the electronic device 250 facing the surface
222a of the front panel 202a. Removable or releasable attachment
mechanisms (e.g., opposing buckles 256 and latches 258, or hooks
and straps, or opposing VELCRO.TM. pads, etc.) can be positioned
along the edges of the backing 252 and the surface 222a of the
front panel 202a to secure the backing 252 and its electronic
device 250 in either the use position or the storage position.
Thus, the user can conceal the electronic device 250 by securing it
in the storage position, and can then pivot the backing 252 to the
use position to use the electronic device 250.
[0053] FIGS. 13-15 illustrate a carrying case 200b that is the same
as the carrying case 200 of FIG. 11, except for the different
amusement features noted below. Therefore, the same numerals are
used to designate the same corresponding elements in both FIGS. 11
and 13, except that a "b" has been added to the corresponding
elements in FIG. 13. In the carrying case 200b of FIG. 13, a game
board 260 can be provided on the front surface 222b of the front
panel 202b. In addition, an electronic device 262 can be retained
inside the interior 266 of the carrying case 200b and removed via
an elongated opening 264 provided in the top panel 210b. For
example, a mini-computer 262 can be provided in a housing that has
a slim profile, and as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, can be inserted
via the opening 264 into the interior 266 of the carrying case
200b. A stop wall 268 can be provided in the interior 266 to
prevent the mini-computer 262 from falling completely into the
interior 266. A handle 270 can be provided on the top of the
mini-computer 262 and adapted to always extend outside the opening
264, so that the user can grip the handle 270 to pull the
mini-computer 262 out of the interior 266 at any time. In addition,
a support piece 272 can be hingedly coupled to the housing for the
mini-computer 262 by a hinge 274, such as a piano hinge. Thus, the
support piece 272 and the housing of the mini-computer 262 actually
form a slim and elongated piece that extends into the interior 266.
The bottom of the support piece 272 actually abuts the stop wall
268 when the mini-computer 262 is completely retained inside the
interior 266. When the user desires to use the mini-computer 262,
the user pulls the handle 270 to lift the mini-computer 262, and
then pivots the mini-computer 262 about the hinge 274 so that the
housing of the mini-computer 262 can be placed flat on top of the
top panel 210b during use, as shown in FIG. 13. Optional locking
mechanisms, such as a strap 278 with a fastener button or
VELCRO.TM. pads provided thereon, can be provided on the top panel
210b to secure the mini-computer 262 inside the interior 266 during
storage. As a result, the amusement feature 262 (here, it is a
mini-computer) can be stored inside the carrying case 200b in a
manner so that it can be easily and quickly retrieved without
needing to open the carrying case 200b and to separate the other
stored contents.
[0054] In addition, as shown in FIG. 15, the slidable handle 238b
can be retained inside a sleeve 276 provided adjacent the rear
panel 212b of the carrying case 200b.
[0055] FIGS. 16-17 illustrate a carrying case 200c that is the same
as the carrying case 200 of FIG. 11, except for the different
amusement features noted below. Therefore, the same numerals are
used to designate the same corresponding elements in both FIGS. 11
and 16, except that a "c" has been added to the corresponding
elements in FIG. 16. In the carrying case 200c of FIG. 16, an
electronic device 280 can be retained inside a sleeve 282 provided
in the interior 284 of the carrying case 200c and removed via an
elongated opening 286 provided in the side panel 206c. For example,
a mini-computer 280 can be provided in a housing that has a slim
profile, and as shown in FIGS. 16, 17A and 17B, can be inserted via
the opening 286 into the sleeve 282 of the carrying case 200b.
Straps (similar to straps 278 in FIG. 14) can be provided on the
side panel 206c to retain the electronic device 280 inside the
sleeve 282.
[0056] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17B, the electronic device 280 can
have a slim housing that is hingedly or pivotably coupled to a
retainer piece 288 via a hinge 290 (such as a piano hinge). The
retainer piece 288 is always retained inside the sleeve 282, with
the height of the retainer piece 288 being greater than the height
or length of the opening 286 so that the retainer piece 288 cannot
be removed from the sleeve 282. The retainer piece 288 has a
narrowed portion 292 that is connected to the hinge 290. The
narrowed portion 292 has a height which is slightly less than the
height or length of the opening 286 so that the narrowed portion
292 can extend through the opening 286. Thus, when the electronic
device 280 is to be stored completely inside the sleeve 282, the
retainer piece 288 and the housing of the electronic device 280 are
aligned in the same plane, and slid into the sleeve 282. When the
electronic device 280 is to be used, the housing of the electronic
device 280 can be pulled out of the sleeve 282 through the opening
286, and then pivoted (see arrow 294) about the hinge 290 to any
desired orientation for use. FIG. 16 illustrates some possible
orientations for the electronic device 280, with some shown in
phantom. The vertical edge 296 of the retainer piece 288 that
extends from the narrowed portion 292 acts as a stop edge that
abuts the wall surrounding the opening 286 to prevent the retainer
piece 288 from being pulled outside the sleeve 282. A similar stop
edge is provided at the bottom of the retainer piece 288 adjacent
the narrowed portion 292. Thus, the disposition of the retainer
piece 288 inside the sleeve 282 provides the electronic device 280
with the support and stability needed during use thereof.
[0057] Although the principles of the present invention have been
illustrated in connection with knapsacks and travel carrying cases,
it is possible for the principles of the present invention to be
applied to any other carrying case or storage bag so as to enhance
the amusement and utility of such carrying cases and storage bags.
For example, FIG. 18 illustrates a conventional open-top handbag or
tote bag 300 having a light 302 provided on an inner surface 304 of
the bag 300, flashing lights 306 provided on an outer surface 308,
and a speaker and miniature PC device 310 provided on the outer
surface 312 of a pouch 314 that is attached to the outer surface
308. The electronic devices 302, 306 and 310 can be attached to the
surfaces of the bag 300 using the principles illustrated in FIGS.
4A and 4B. A pair of handle straps 316 can be provided adjacent the
open top 318 of the bag 300. Here, the light 302 can be used to
illuminate the interior of the bag 300, the flashing lights 306 can
be used to attract attention (e.g., as an alarm), and the speaker
and miniature PC device 310 can be used for amusement. Thus, each
electronic device 302, 306 and 310 can be used to provide an
important safety or amusement function.
[0058] As another example, FIG. 19 illustrates a conventional waist
pack 330 having an electronic device 332 (e.g., a built-in
CD-player with speaker) provided on an outer surface 334 of the
pack 330. The electronic device 332 can be attached to the surface
334 of the container portion 336 of the pack 330 using the
principles illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The waist pack 330 also
has two elongated straps 338 that have a buckle and loop connector
340 at the ends of the straps 338 for connecting the straps 338.
Here, the CD-player and speaker 332 can provide the wearer of the
pack 330 with entertainment during long walks. Alternatively, the
pack 330 can be used by a tourist and the CD-player and speaker 332
can be used to narrate information relating to a tourist attraction
which the tourist is visiting. Control buttons 342 can be provided
on the CD-player and speaker 332 to allow for control thereof.
[0059] FIG. 20 illustrates another conventional open-top handbag or
tote bag 350 whose open top 352 can be closed by a drawstring 354
retained in a sleeve 355 at the top edge thereof. The bag 350 can
have a compass 356 and a clock or timer 358 provided on a buckle
360 on an outer surface 362 of the bag 350. The compass 356 and
clock 358 can be attached to the surface 362 of the bag 350, or to
the buckle 360, using the principles illustrated in FIGS. 4A and
4B. The drawstring 354 can be used as a handle for the bag 350. The
compass 356 can be useful in helping the user to identify the
user's location, and the clock 358 provides the time.
[0060] FIG. 21 illustrates a conventional lunch box 380 having an
interior defined by a front panel 382, side panels 384, and a rear
panel 386 interconnected with each other. The lunch box 380 also
has an upper lid or cover 388 that can be an extension from the
rear panel 386 that covers the top opening of the lunch box 380.
One end 390 of the cover 388 is secured to the front panel 382 by
any conventional means used by bags and handbags, such as by
buckles, snaps, hooks, Velcro.TM. pads, loops, and the like. A
handle 392 can be provided at the top of the cover 388. A first
electronic device 394 (such as a radio and/or cassette player) and
a second electronic device 396 (such as a speaker that can be
electrically coupled to the first electronic device 394 via wiring
disposed inside the lunch box 380) can be provided on the outer
surface 398 of the front panel 382. The electronic devices 394 and
396 can be attached to the surface 398 of the lunch box 380 using
the principles illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B. Here, the radio 394
and speaker 396 can be used to provide musical entertainment to the
person during lunch when this person is eating from the contents of
the lunch box 380.
[0061] FIG. 22 illustrates a conventional tool box 400 having an
interior defined by a front panel 402, side panels 404 and 406, and
a rear panel 408 interconnected with each other. The tool box 400
also has a lid or cover 410 that can be hingedly coupled to the
rear panel 408 for covering the open top of the tool box 400. A
handle (not shown) can be provided at the top of the cover 410. A
first electronic device 412 (such as a radio and/or cassette player
together with a speaker) can be provided on the outer surface 414
of the side panel 404, and a second electronic device 416 (such as
a plurality of touch pads coupled by an electrical path) can be
provided on the bottom surface 418 of the cover 410. The electronic
devices 412 and 416 can be attached to the surfaces 414 and 418,
respectively, of the tool box 400 using the principles illustrated
in FIGS. 4A and 4B. Here, the radio and speaker 412 can be used to
provide musical entertainment to the worker during use of the tools
contained in the tool box 400, while the touch pads of the second
electronic device 416 can contain electronic games that provide
amusement to the worker during breaks.
[0062] FIG. 23 illustrates a conventional beverage chest 430 having
an interior defined by four side panels 432, 434, 436, 438
interconnected with each other. The beverage chest 430 also has a
lid or cover 440 that can be removably coupled to the top edges of
the panels 432, 434, 436, 438 for covering the open top of the
beverage chest 430. A pull handle 442 can be coupled to one panel
436. A first electronic device 444 (such as blinking lights) can be
provided on the outer surface 446 of a side panel 432 to provide
light to the party or event at which the chest 430 is being used,
and a second electronic device 448 (such as a radio and speaker)
can be provided on the top surface 450 of the cover 440 to provide
entertainment to the party or event at which the chest 430 is being
used. The electronic devices 444 and 448 can be attached to the
surfaces 446 and 450, respectively, using the principles
illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B.
[0063] Although the FIGS. herein illustrate the amusement features
as taking several specific forms, it is possible for the amusement
feature to include any design, item, element or feature that
promotes an activity, and can be both electronic and
non-electronic. Where these amusement features are electronic in
nature (such as, but not limited to, batteries, lights, antennas,
screens, touch sensors, on-off pads, and speakers, among others),
it is contemplated that they need to be coupled to a power source
to be driven, and may need to be coupled to processors for
receiving and/or transmitting control, data or other signals. These
electrical components and features can be attached to the outer or
inner surfaces of the carrying case by either stitching, glue or
any other known connection mechanisms, in addition to the technique
illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B. If necessary, wires can be coupled
to these electrical components and power sources and processors for
ensuring the transmission of power and signals therebetween. These
electrical components can even communicate with a computer that can
be provided with the carrying case (such as shown in FIGS. 3, 6, 7,
8, 11, 12, 13 and 16), or with a computer at a remote location and
in wireless (e.g:, RF) communication with an antenna that is
coupled to the carrying case (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11).
[0064] Other amusement features that can be incorporated with the
carrying cases of the present invention include cellular phones,
microphones, musical instruments, radios, zippers, snaps, tethered
balls, squeeze items, pinwheels or spinning wheels, sockets, slap
items (i.e., items that emit sounds when slapped), buckles, corks,
whistles, pedals, and doorbells, among others. Thus, the carrying
cases according to the present invention provide the user with much
added utility and educational value, in addition to an unlimited
source and variety of fun and entertainment. The enhancements and
features allow numerous functions, operations, and games to be
utilized or played in connection with the carrying cases, and
significantly extends the useful applications of the carrying
cases.
[0065] While the description above refers to particular embodiments
of the present invention, it will be understood that many
modifications may be made without departing from the spirit
thereof. The accompanying claims are intended to cover such
modifications as would fall within the true scope and spirit of the
present invention.
* * * * *