U.S. patent application number 13/328544 was filed with the patent office on 2012-06-21 for adaptable storage device for rain attire.
Invention is credited to TIMOTHY GARNER.
Application Number | 20120152772 13/328544 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46232965 |
Filed Date | 2012-06-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120152772 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
GARNER; TIMOTHY |
June 21, 2012 |
ADAPTABLE STORAGE DEVICE FOR RAIN ATTIRE
Abstract
Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an
adaptable storage device for rain attire. More specifically,
embodiments of the present invention relate to an adaptable storage
device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety
of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and
conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until
needed. In one embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable
storage device for rain attire comprises a substantially
water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing rain
attire; a closure means for sealing the inner volume of the storage
portion; and an attachment means for attaching the adaptable
storage device to an apparatus.
Inventors: |
GARNER; TIMOTHY; (Devenport,
FL) |
Family ID: |
46232965 |
Appl. No.: |
13/328544 |
Filed: |
December 16, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61424047 |
Dec 16, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
206/223 ;
206/278 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 13/008 20130101;
A45F 4/12 20130101; A45F 3/005 20130101; A45C 2009/007 20130101;
A45C 2003/007 20130101; A45F 4/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/223 ;
206/278 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/18 20060101
B65D085/18; B65D 69/00 20060101 B65D069/00 |
Claims
1. An adaptable storage device for rain attire comprising: a
substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume
for storing rain attire; a closure means for sealing the inner
volume of the storage portion; and an attachment means for
attaching the adaptable storage device to an apparatus.
2. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the storage
portion comprises 600 denier polyester.
3. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the storage
portion comprises a woven or non-woven fabric, having natural or
artificial fibers.
4. The adaptable storage device of claim 3, wherein the natural or
artificial fibers are coated in an oil or chemical to enhance
waterproofing or water-resistive capabilities.
5. The adaptable storage device of claim 5, wherein the storage
portion comprises a length to width ratio of between about 2:1 to
about 20:1.
6. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the closure
means comprises one of a zipper, mechanical snaps, one or more
straps, hook-and-loop fasteners, removable adhesive, or
combinations thereof.
7. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the attachment
means comprises a strap affixed to the outer surface of the storage
portion.
8. The adaptable storage device of claim 7, wherein the strap is
affixed to the outer surface of the storage portion via a D-ring
assembly and clip.
9. The adaptable storage device of claim 7, wherein the strap
comprise at least one of a release buckle, or one or more length
adjustment elements to provide a means to release and/or adjust the
length of the strap.
10. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, further comprising a
strap on an outer surface of the storage portion for holding
separable articles.
11. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, further comprising a
drying cloth removably fixed to an inner surface of the storage
portion via at least one cloth attachment.
12. The adaptable storage device of claim 11, wherein the drying
cloth comprises a blend of rayon and polypropylene fibers.
13. The adaptable storage device of claim 11, wherein the at least
one cloth attachment comprises a substantially waterproof or
water-resistant pocket.
14. The adaptable storage device of claim 11, wherein the at least
one cloth attachment comprises at least one of a hook-and-loop
fastener assembly, non-abrasive removable adhesives, mechanical
fasteners or combinations thereof.
15. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, further comprising one
or more storage compartments on an inner surface of the storage
portion.
16. The adaptable storage device of claim 1, wherein the apparatus
comprises one of a golf bag, a purse, a briefcase a belt, or a
shoulder strap of a bag.
17. An adaptable storage device for a golfer's rain attire
comprising: a substantially water-proof storage portion having an
inner volume for storing a golfer's rain attire, the storage
portion having an inner surface with a drying cloth removably
stored via at least one cloth attachment, and one or more storage
compartments therein; a substantially water-proof zipper for
sealing the inner volume of the storage portion; and an attachment
means for attaching the adaptable storage device to a golf bag;
wherein the storage portion comprises one of a substantially round,
oval or circular cross-section, and has a length to width ratio of
between about 3:1 to about 8:1.
18. The adaptable storage device of claim 17, wherein the
attachment means comprises a strap affixed to the outer surface of
the storage portion, the strap having at least one of a release
buckle, or one or more length adjustment elements to provide a
means to release and/or adjust the length of the strap.
19. A golfer's kit to store rain attire, the kit comprising: an
adaptable storage device for a golfer's rain attire comprising: a
substantially water-proof storage portion having an inner volume
for storing a golfer's rain attire, the storage portion having an
inner surface with a drying cloth removably fixed thereon via at
least one cloth attachment, and one or more storage compartments
therein; a substantially water-proof zipper for sealing the inner
volume of the storage portion; and an attachment means for
attaching the adaptable storage device to a golf bag, the
attachment means having a strap affixed to the outer surface of the
storage portion, with at least one of a release buckle, or one or
more length adjustment elements thereon to provide a means to
release and/or adjust the length of the strap; wherein the storage
portion comprises one of a substantially round, oval or circular
cross-section, and has a length to diameter ratio of between about
3:1 to about 8:1; and at least one article of rain attire, selected
from the group consisting of: an umbrella, a rain jacket, gloves,
mittens, and rain pants.
20. The kit of claim 19, wherein each of the adaptable storage
device and the at least one article of rain attire comprise a logo
thereon.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/424,047, entitled "Adaptable Storage Device for
Rain Attire," filed Dec. 16, 2010, the disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an
adaptable storage device for rain attire. More specifically,
embodiments of the present invention relate to an adaptable storage
device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety
of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and
conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until
needed.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] People have been utilizing rain attire in inclement weather
for years. Young children are taught at an early age to dress for
the weather, which usually includes a raincoat, hat, umbrella
and/or boots when leaving the house when it is raining outside.
Even today's businessmen and women will carry an umbrella and wear
an overcoat when there is precipitation outside. The basic
principal of dressing for the weather is widely accepted as common
sense.
[0006] However, this "common sense" to dress appropriately seems to
get brushed aside when such individuals leave their homes in the
morning without knowing, or without worrying, about a chance of bad
weather later in the day. To venture out into the public wearing a
rain coat when it is warm and sunny may be looked upon as strange,
and certainly unfashionable. Even carrying a water-proof coat and
umbrella, in hand or in a briefcase or backpack, may be heavy, and
may displace other items that would normally be carried
therein.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for an adaptable storage device
that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety of
everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and
conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until
needed.
SUMMARY
[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an
adaptable storage device for rain attire. More specifically,
embodiments of the present invention relate to an adaptable storage
device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety
of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and
conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until
needed.
[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable
storage device for rain attire comprises a substantially
water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing rain
attire; a closure means for sealing the inner volume of the storage
portion; and an attachment means for attaching the adaptable
storage device to an apparatus.
[0010] In another embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable
storage device for a golfer's rain attire comprises a substantially
water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing a
golfer's rain attire, the storage portion having an inner surface
with a drying cloth removably fixed thereon via at least one cloth
attachment, and one or more storage compartments therein; a
substantially water-proof zipper for sealing the inner volume of
the storage portion; and an attachment means for attaching the
adaptable storage device to a golf bag; wherein the storage portion
comprises one of a substantially round, oval or circular
cross-section, and has a length to diameter ratio of between about
3:1 to about 8:1.
[0011] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a
golfer's kit to store rain attire comprises: an adaptable storage
device for a golfer's rain attire comprising a substantially
water-proof storage portion having an inner volume for storing a
golfer's rain attire, the storage portion having an inner surface
with a drying cloth removably fixed thereon via at least one cloth
attachment, and one or more storage compartments therein; a
substantially water-proof zipper for sealing the inner volume of
the storage portion; and an attachment means for attaching the
adaptable storage device to a golf bag, the attachment means having
a strap affixed to the outer surface of the storage portion, with
at least one of a release buckle, or one or more length adjustment
elements thereon to provide a means to release and/or adjust the
length of the strap; wherein the storage portion comprises one of a
substantially round, oval or circular cross-section, and has a
length to diameter ratio of between about 3:1 to about 8:1; and at
least one article of rain attire, selected from the group
consisting of: an umbrella, a rain jacket, gloves, mittens, and
rain pants.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] So the manner in which the above-recited features of the
present invention can be understood in detail, a more detailed
description of embodiments of the present invention is described
below with references to the Figures illustrated in the appended
drawings. The Figures in the appended drawings, like the detailed
description, illustrate only examples of embodiments. As such, the
Figures and the detailed description are not to be considered
limiting, and other equally effective examples are possible and
likely, wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an adaptable storage
device for rain attire in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 depicts a top view of an adaptable storage device for
rain attire, in an open position, in accordance with another
embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 3 depicts a back view of an adaptable storage device
having a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 4 depicts a plurality of alternative attachment
locations for embodiments of the present invention; and
[0017] FIG. 5 depicts a kit utilizing an adaptable storage device
and rain attire, in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0018] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes
only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the
description. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is
used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to),
rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly,
the words "include," "including," and "includes" mean "including
but not limited to." To facilitate understanding, like reference
numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements
common to the Figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] In the following detailed description, numerous specific
details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding
of exemplary embodiments or other examples described herein.
However, it will be understood that these examples may be practiced
without the specific details. In other instances, well-known
methods, procedures, and components have not been described in
detail, so as to not obscure the following description. Further,
the examples disclosed herein are for exemplary purposes only and
other examples may be employed in lieu of, or in combination with,
the examples disclosed. It should also be noted that the examples
presented herein should not be construed as limiting of the scope
of embodiments of the present invention, as other equally effective
examples are possible and likely.
[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an
adaptable storage device for rain attire. More specifically,
embodiments of the present invention relate to an adaptable storage
device that can be easily transported, may be affixed to a variety
of everyday articles, provides a fashionable appearance, and
conveniently stores rain attire and accessories thereof until
needed.
[0021] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an adaptable storage
device for rain attire in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. An adaptable storage device 100 generally
comprises a storage portion 110 having an inner volume for storing
rain attire, a closure means 120, and an attachment means 130. The
adaptable storage device 100 may be considered a bag or container
of some form, having the features and functionality as disclosed
herein.
[0022] The storage portion 110 is generally a volume defining
portion of the adaptable storage device 100 and has an inner volume
(not shown) for storing a variety of items of rain attire or
accessories thereof. The storage portion 110 is generally flexible
and bendable about an article (not shown) to which it may be
attached.
[0023] The storage portion 110 may comprise any material suitable
for embodiments of the invention, and often comprises a waterproof
or water-resistant material. In one embodiment, the storage portion
110 comprises a common waterproof material such as vinyl, rubber,
artificial fibers (e.g., Gore-Tex.RTM., made by W. L. Gore &
Associates, Inc. of Newark, Del.), combinations thereof, or the
like. In another embodiment, the storage portion 110 comprises a
woven or non-woven fabric, having natural or artificial fibers,
optionally coated in an oil or chemical to enhance waterproofing or
water-resistive capabilities. In alternative embodiments, natural
animal skins may be utilized as an outer layer of the storage
portion 110, for both the natural water resistivity and fashion
qualities. In one embodiment, the storage portion primarily
comprises a denier polyester, for example, a 600 denier polyester,
and optionally, combinations of other materials as well.
[0024] The storage portion 110 may generally be shaped in any
configuration suitable for embodiments of the present invention,
i.e., to store rain attire. In many embodiments, storage portion
110 may have a substantially round, oval or circular cross-section,
although any cross-section shape may be suitable suitable. Such a
cross section is determined when the storage portion is in a
substantially relaxed state, with nominal external forces acting
thereon. Similarly, the storage portion 110 may have a
substantially longer length than its diameter or cross-sectional
width (e.g., ranging from ratios of about 2:1 up to about 20:1, and
in some embodiments from ratios of about 3:1 to about 8:1), such
width being defined along the distance of the closure means about
one end of the storage portion.
[0025] In some embodiments, such as the one shown, the storage
portion 110 is designed as a substantially symmetrical article,
capable of opening up on a top and two sides via a closure means
120. In many embodiments, the closure means 120 comprises a
resealable mechanical fastener commonly found in apparel. For
example, in one embodiment, the closure means 120 comprises one of
a zipper, mechanical snaps, one or more straps, hook-and-loop
fasteners (e.g., Velcro.RTM.), removable adhesive, combinations
thereof, or the like. As shown in the Figure, the closure means 120
may comprise a zipper having a plurality of teeth (shown in a
closed position) and a slider 122.
[0026] In many embodiments, regardless of the type of closure means
120, such closure means 120 may generally create a waterproof or
substantially water-resistant seal to the inside volume of the
storage portion 110. Various types of waterproof or water-resistant
closure mechanisms are known in the industry and should be
considered suitable for embodiments of the present invention. In
certain embodiments, however, other water-resistant means are
utilized with the device 100, and the water-resistibility of the
closure means is substantially irrelevant.
[0027] The attachment means 130 may comprise any means suitable to
attach the adaptable storage device 100 to another article,
apparatus or individual, in accordance with embodiments of the
present invention, as described herein. In one embodiment, the
attachment means 130 comprises a strap affixed to the outer surface
of the storage portion 110, via one or more D-ring assemblies
affixed to an exterior of the storage portion 110. Optionally, the
strap may comprise a release buckle 132, as well as length
adjustment elements to provide for an easy way to release and/ or
adjust the length of the strap. Additional embodiments of the
attachment means 130 are described herein with respect to FIG.
3.
[0028] In an alternative embodiment, the adaptable storage device
100 may further comprise a pocket, loop or strap 140 on an outer
surface of the storage portion 110. Such type of outer pocket, loop
or strap may be designed to hold specific articles, such as an
umbrella, which may not need to be shielded from precipitation at
all times. In many embodiments, the strap 140 may be openable, via
two mating hook and loop portions, or otherwise, to allow ease of
access to an article being held thereby.
[0029] FIG. 2 depicts a top view of an adaptable storage device for
rain attire, in an open position, in accordance with another
embodiment of the present invention. The adaptable storage device
200 comprises a storage portion 210 having an inner volume defined
by an inner surface 212, as well as a closure means 220. As shown
in the Figure, the closure means 220 is provided in the form of a
zipper having a plurality of teeth and slider 222.
[0030] In many embodiments, the storage portion 210 comprises a
drying cloth 240 removably fixed within the inner surface 212 via
at least one cloth attachment 242. The drying cloth 240 generally
comprises a sheet of material capable of absorbing liquid (e.g.,
water). In one embodiment, the material comprises a blend of rayon
and polypropylene fibers, or the like, similar to many commercially
sold non-leather chamois cloths. Alternatively, the drying cloth
240 may comprise any material having inherent absorbent properties,
reasonably suitable for embodiments of the present invention.
[0031] The at least one cloth attachment 242 may generally comprise
any means for keeping the drying cloth 240 within the storage
portion. In one embodiment, as shown, the cloth attachment 242
comprises a pocket. Generally, such pocket may comprise a
waterproof or substantially water-resistant pocket, capable of
keeping the drying cloth 240 dry in the event moisture or water
enter the interior of the storage portion. In alternative
embodiments, the cloth attachment 242 may comprise any type of
removable fastener suitable for embodiments of the present
invention. For example, in one embodiment, the cloth attachment 242
comprises a hook-and-loop fastener assembly. Alternatively,
non-abrasive removable adhesives or mechanical fasteners (e.g.,
snaps, zippers, etc.) may be utilized as the cloth attachment
242.
[0032] Optionally, there may be one or more storage compartments
250 provided in of the storage portion 210. Such storage
compartments 250 may be optionally provided to assist in the
storage of rain attire (not shown) when the adaptable storage
device 200 is in use. The storage compartments 250 may comprise any
known type of storage, such as a tie-down strap having a release
buckle and/or hook and loop fasteners, a pocket, or the like.
[0033] FIG. 3 depicts a back view of an adaptable storage device
having a plurality of attachment means, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the Figure, the
adaptable storage device 300 may be provided with a variety of
different attachment means 330a-d, which may either be
interchangeable or assembled for different end users. Where
interchangeable attachment means 330a-d are provided, the adaptable
storage device 300 may be provided with one or more attachment
means connectors 315 which generally comprise only one of a male or
female end of a connector for receiving and connecting with
opposing structure 315' on each of the attachment means 330a-e.
[0034] The attachment means connectors 315 and 315' generally
comprise any type of mechanical fastener suitable for embodiments
of the present invention. Similar to the cloth attachment 242
discussed above, the attachment means connectors 315 and 315' may
comprise a hook-and-loop fastener assembly, non-abrasive removable
adhesives or mechanical fasteners (e.g., snaps, zippers, etc.). In
addition, for non-interchangeable embodiments, the attachment means
connectors may comprise more permanent mechanical fasteners (e.g.,
bolts), stitching, a permanent adhesive, combinations thereof, or
the like.
[0035] The first attachment means 330a comprises a strap having a
side-release buckle for easy release, and optionally comprises one
or more length adjustments to provide a more secure fit about a
variety of articles, apparatuses or individuals. In another
embodiment, the attachment means 330b comprises a clip-type device,
such as a climbing clip, for affixing to an article (not shown)
having a eye-loop or ring for receiving such types of clips.
[0036] In yet another embodiment, the attachment means 330c
comprises an open tie strap or string. In such embodiment, the
attachment means 330c may be utilized to affix the adaptable
storage device 300 to nearly any surface or device. In a further
embodiment, the attachment means 330d comprises a belt clip-type
connector for affixing about a belt of an individual (not shown) to
that the adaptable storage device 300 may be worn. In an additional
embodiment, the attachment means 330e, which is also shown in FIG.
1, may comprise a D-ring assembly for receiving another article,
such as a strap having clips thereon for mating with the D-ring
assembly. In optional embodiments, any other type of attachment
means capable of providing the same or similar functionality as
those described herein may be utilized in accordance with
embodiments of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 4 depicts a plurality of alternative attachment
locations for embodiments of the present invention. As shown in the
Figure, embodiments of the present invention may be placed or
affixed nearly anywhere. In one embodiment, an adaptable storage
device 400a may be affixed about the top of a golf bag, allowing a
golfer to always have rain attire handy, nearby and conveniently
accessible, without fear that it would get dirty from being in a
pocket of the golf bag. However, in certain instances, the entire
adaptable storage device may be configured to fit within the pocket
of a golf bag, still keeping the rain attire free from touching the
inside of the pocket directly.
[0038] In another embodiment, an adaptable storage device 400b may
be affixed to the straps of a purse, bag, or briefcase. In such an
embodiment, the individual may have an easy way to transport rain
attire without having to hold it or to displace other items in the
bag to make room for the rain attire. In yet another embodiment, an
adaptable storage device 400c may be worn around an individual's
waist, either on a belt or connected via a strap (i.e., similar to
a fanny-pack). As such, when a user is attending a ball game or
going for a walk, the user has a convenient way to transport rain
attire without holding it. Alternatively, the adaptable storage
device 400c may be attached to a user via a shoulder strap (e.g.,
similar to a purse or computer bag), to be worn in any capacity by
the user (e.g., on the shoulder, across the chest, etc.)
[0039] In addition to the embodiments shown and described herein,
embodiments of the adaptable storage device can be customized for
nearly any circumstance whereby an individual or group of
individuals may wish to have a convenient way to transport rain
attire. As such, embodiments of the present invention should not be
deemed limited by the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.
[0040] FIG. 5 depicts a kit utilizing an adaptable storage device
and rain attire, in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. As shown in the Figure, the kit 500 may comprise an
adaptable storage device 510, and a number of articles of rain
attire. As shown in the Figure, such exemplary articles may include
an umbrella 562, a rain jacket 564, gloves/mittens 566, and rain
pants 568. Generally, when provided as a kit 500, such articles
would be folded and stored within the adaptable storage device
510.
[0041] In many embodiments, when providing a kit 500, each of the
articles as well as the adaptable storage device 510 may be
provided with a brand, insignia, pattern, design or visual
source-identification (collectively called "logo" 570). By
providing a logo on each of the articles, such kits 500 may be
commercially manufactured for businesses, sports teams, or
locations having a significant number of followers. For example, as
shown in the Figure, by designating each of the articles and the
adaptable storage device 510 with the letter R (which would likely
be done in the color red), kits 500 may be readily made for Rutgers
University in New Jersey, and may be sold before or during football
games to students and alumni in the event there is a chance of rain
during a game.
[0042] While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the
present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention
may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof.
Furthermore, whereas the multitude of embodiments disclosed herein
each provides a variety of elements within each embodiment, it
should be appreciated any combination of elements from any
combination of embodiments is well within the scope of further
embodiments of the present invention.
* * * * *