U.S. patent application number 13/734212 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-01 for equipment-storage/carrying apparatus.
The applicant listed for this patent is Joseph M. Davidson. Invention is credited to Joseph M. Davidson.
Application Number | 20130193179 13/734212 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48869394 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130193179 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Davidson; Joseph M. |
August 1, 2013 |
EQUIPMENT-STORAGE/CARRYING APPARATUS
Abstract
An apparatus implemented as an integrated storage and transport
system is described. The apparatus can be made of a high tensile
strength material that is resistant to tearing and to inclement
weather. Incorporated into the apparatus is a plurality of
reinforced straps where each strap contains a core of multiple
strand high tensile cord. The number of reinforced straps is
generally based on a square foot size of the apparatus. Also
combined, in some variations, is the strategic placement of box
stitching and vertical straps for extra support.
Inventors: |
Davidson; Joseph M.; (Castle
Rock, CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Davidson; Joseph M. |
Castle Rock |
CO |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
48869394 |
Appl. No.: |
13/734212 |
Filed: |
January 4, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61591366 |
Jan 27, 2012 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
224/585 ;
224/584 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 3/02 20130101; A45C
2013/026 20130101; A45C 13/001 20130101; B60R 7/005 20130101; B60R
7/043 20130101; A45C 13/02 20130101; A45F 5/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/585 ;
224/584 |
International
Class: |
A45F 5/00 20060101
A45F005/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for securing items to an object, the apparatus
comprising: a fabric panel; a plurality of straps attached to the
fabric panel in parallel, each of the plurality of straps folded
longitudinally around a cord; and an attachment structure
configured to couple the fabric panel to the object.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fabric panel comprises
nylon.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of
straps comprise a nylon webbing.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein one or more of the plurality
of straps comprises a polyurethane webbing.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cord is 550 paracord.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the object is a car seat.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the object is a truck bed.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the object is a briefcase.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the object is an all-terrain
vehicle.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: one or more
pouches configured to attach to the plurality of straps.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fabric panel consists of
one of: polypropylene webbing; polyurethane webbing; Kevlar; nylon
webbing; polyester webbing; high density polyethylene webbing; and
carbon fiber.
12. An apparatus for securing items to an object, the apparatus
comprising: a fabric panel; a plurality of straps attached to the
fabric panel in parallel, each of the plurality of straps folded
longitudinally around a cord; at least one strap attached to the
fabric panel perpendicularly to the plurality of straps; and an
attachment structure configured to couple the fabric panel to the
object.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the cord is 550
paracord.
14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the object consists of one
of: a vehicle seat; a truck bed; a briefcase; and an all-terrain
vehicle.
15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of
straps comprise a nylon webbing.
16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein at least one of the
plurality of straps comprises a polyurethane webbing.
17. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one strap
comprises a polyurethane webbing.
18. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one strap
comprises a nylon webbing.
19. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the fabric panel consists of
one of: polypropylene webbing; polyurethane webbing; Kevlar; nylon
webbing; polyester webbing; high density polyethylene webbing; and
carbon fiber.
20. An apparatus for securing items to an object, the apparatus
comprising: a fabric panel; a plurality of straps attached to the
fabric panel in parallel, each of the plurality of straps
comprising a nylon webbing folded longitudinally around a 550
paracord, wherein each of the plurality of straps are attached to
the fabric panel by box stitches; at least one nylon webbing strap
attached to the fabric panel perpendicularly to the plurality of
straps, the at least one nylon webbing strap being attached by box
stitches; and an attachment structure configured to couple the
fabric panel to the object.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/591,366, filed 27 Jan. 2012.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Military and law enforcement agencies currently use a
personal gear attachment system referred to as Modular Lightweight
Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE). The system typically utilizes sewn
webbing, in a matrix formation, referred to as Pouch Attachment
Ladder System (PALS). Using the MOLLE system, gear (e.g., a modular
pouch) with straps on the back can be attached to a webbing panel
configured in the PALS format. In order to attach gear to the PALS
panel, straps of the gear can be weaved into the PALS panel. The
PALS format is an effective means of securely fastening many types
of gear, such as ammunition pouches, ordinance pouches, first aid
kits, pouches for miscellaneous items (e.g. flashlights, knives,
compasses, and GPS units), identification holders, canteens, liquid
bladders, and other types of load-bearing equipment, to a
person.
[0003] The modular nature of the MOLLE and PALS systems affords a
user the ability to customize placement of gear based on various
factors including the type of gear being attached. Currently, the
MOLLE and PALS system is limited to being implemented on backpacks,
vests, and other personal articles of clothing and storage. As
such, gear that is small and relatively light can be used with the
MOLLE and PALS system. However, a user can run into problems where
there is too much gear to personally carry or the size of the gear
makes it impractical to carry. Furthermore, a user may wish to
store the gear in a readily available location without having it on
their person.
[0004] In cases of civilian activities, it may be impractical to
carry such gear around personally. A user may wish to have the gear
available to him, but not have to personally carry the gear
everywhere he goes. When going on a camping or hunting trip, this
type of gear would generally be stored in some sort of container
when transported. However, using a container limits the
availability of gear readily obtainable by a user. The user would
then have to transfer to the gear from the container to a personal
carrier having the MOLLE and PALS systems.
[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a system that addresses the
limitations of the MOLLE and PALS systems. A system adapted for use
in various civilian transportation vehicles and storage
applications where a user would not have to personally carry gear
is needed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate an embodiment of a storage apparatus
according to the present invention.
[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of a storage apparatus
according to the present invention.
[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates a storage apparatus for use with an
all-terrain vehicle.
[0009] FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate a storage apparatus for use with an
automotive or ATV passenger/rear seat.
[0010] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate a storage apparatus for use as a
pouch attachment briefcase.
[0011] FIG. 6 illustrates a storage apparatus for use with a cargo
bed.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed
to an apparatus that builds upon the ideas behind the military's
Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system, which
uses the Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS). For convenience of
reference, the overall system is henceforth referred to as the
apparatus. Generally speaking, the apparatus can facilitate
transport and storage of a wide variety of equipment and pouches,
including those already used with the existing MOLLE and PALS
systems. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a more-robust
"ladder" system that takes the place of one-inch webbing in a
typical PALS application. For example, in one variation, the
apparatus includes webbing straps each having a 550 paracord core.
It is to be appreciated that other suitable cord cores can be
implemented depending on an application and anticipated load. In
another variation, the apparatus' "ladder" system includes vertical
webbing straps placed in the apparatus for reinforcement in heavier
load applications.
[0013] In an embodiment, the apparatus includes an integrated
storage and transport system comprising a high tensile strength
base and a plurality of straps with cord cores. The core includes
multiple strand high tensile cord. The plurality of straps are
generally in parallel and can be spaced at various widths according
to the square foot size of the apparatus. Also combined, in some
variations, is the strategic placement of box stitching throughout
the surface of the base. In one variation, the apparatus includes
hook-and-loop patches and/or snap fasteners for attachment of
various types of gear to the apparatus.
[0014] In general, the apparatus is designed to allow the modular
MOLLE pouches currently on the market to work with the apparatus.
The base together with the integrated weight-bearing straps gives a
user the ability to easily change the placement of weight bearing
modular pouches to meet the needs of their ever-changing storage
and transport requirements. The apparatus can be adaptable for
various uses and weight requirements. For instance, modular pouches
can be attached to the invention by using various attachment
systems available on the market. Existing attachment systems will
work with the apparatus including, but not limited to, speed
strips, hook-and-loop attachments, and 1-inch snap strap.
[0015] In many other applications, it is anticipated that the
apparatus can be adapted for use in various consumer transportation
and storage markets. One such application involves a version of the
apparatus equipped with strapping to allow it to be mounted on an
automobile's passenger seat back, wherein attached pouches and
equipment are available to the user in the next seat. In another
application, the apparatus is adapted to be removably installed as
an equipment-mounting system in the bed of a pick-up truck or the
cargo bay of an SUV. Variations in fabric, measurements, and layout
depend on the specific consumer-product application and are further
based on anticipated weight bearing load, strength, placement,
location, and so on.
Terminology
[0016] The terms and phrases as indicated in quotes (" ") in this
section are intended to have the meaning ascribed to them in this
Terminology section applied to them throughout this document,
including the claims, unless clearly indicated otherwise in
context. Further, as applicable, the stated definitions are to
apply, regardless of the word or phrase's case, to the singular and
plural variations of the defined word or phrase.
[0017] The term "or", as used in this specification and the
appended claims, is not meant to be exclusive; rather, the term is
inclusive, meaning either or both.
[0018] References in the specification to "one embodiment", "an
embodiment", "a preferred embodiment", "an alternative embodiment",
"a variation", "one variation", and similar phrases mean that a
particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in
connection with the embodiment is included in at least an
embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase "in one
embodiment" and/or "in one variation" in various places in the
specification are not necessarily all meant to refer to the same
embodiment.
[0019] The term "couple" or "coupled", as used in this
specification and the appended claims, refers to either an indirect
or a direct connection between the identified elements, components,
or objects. Often the manner of the coupling will be related
specifically to the manner in which the two coupled elements
interact.
[0020] The term "removable", "removably coupled", "readily
removable", "readily detachable", and similar terms, as used in
this patent application specification (including the claims and
drawings), refer to structures that can be uncoupled from an
adjoining structure with relative ease (i.e., non-destructively and
without a complicated or time-consuming process) and that can also
be readily reattached or coupled to the previously adjoining
structure.
[0021] Directional and/or relational terms such as, but not limited
to, left, right, nadir, apex, top, bottom, vertical, horizontal,
back, front, and lateral are relative to each other, are dependent
on the specific orientation of an applicable element or article,
are used accordingly to aid in the description of the various
embodiments, and are not necessarily intended to be construed as
limiting.
[0022] As applicable, the terms "about" or "generally", as used
herein unless otherwise indicated, means a margin of +-20%. Also,
as applicable, the term "substantially" as used herein unless
otherwise indicated means a margin of +-10%. It is to be
appreciated that not all uses of the above terms are quantifiable
such that the referenced ranges can be applied.
[0023] The term "attachment means" or "attachment structure," as
used in the specification and appended claims, refers to buckles,
buttons, snap fasteners, d-ring fasteners, quick-detach straps,
clasps, hook and loop fasteners, elastic straps, and equivalent
structures used to couple one object to another.
[0024] The term "paracord" or "550 cord," as used in this
specification and the appended claims, refers to a lightweight
nylon kernmantle rope with a minimum breaking strength of 550
pounds.
A First Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus
[0025] Referring to FIG. 1, a detailed diagram of an embodiment 100
showing an apparatus 102 is illustrated. The apparatus 102 can be
used to store various items in a variety of applications. For
instance, the apparatus 102 can be utilized in vehicle
applications, clothing applications, and personal carrier
applications. In one instance, the apparatus 102 can be configured
to be interchangeable between applications. For example, the
apparatus 102 can be implemented in a truck bed and then can be
transferred to an all-terrain vehicle to go where the truck cannot
go.
[0026] In an embodiment, the apparatus 102 comprises a base 104, a
plurality of straps 106, and an attachment structure or means
108.
[0027] Generally, the base 104 includes a fabric panel having a
definite size and shape. For example, the base 104 can be a two
foot by two foot piece of nylon. In another example, the base 104
can comprise a four foot by two foot piece of Kevlar. It is to be
appreciated that the base 104 can be made into a variety of shapes
and sizes depending on an application.
[0028] Since the apparatus 102 can be used for a variety of
applications, the base 104 can be comprised of any suitable
material that is resistant to tearing and is highly durable. For
instance, in applications involving the outdoors, the base 104 can
be comprised of a material that is resistant to the elements such
as high density polyethylene (HDPE). In one example, the base 104
is waterproof. In an embodiment, the base 104 can be comprised of a
high tensile strength material that is weather resistant. For
example, the base 104 can be a heavy duty nylon canvas. In an
embodiment, the base 104 can be made from multiple materials. For
example, the base 104 can include a piece of nylon canvas with a
Kevlar exterior layer. It is to be appreciated that the base 104
can be made from a variety of materials including, but not limited
to, woven materials, nonwoven materials, synthetic materials, and
non-synthetic materials. Some examples of such materials include
Kevlar, felt, carbon fiber, HDPE, polyester, polypropylene, nylon,
and other polymers.
[0029] Generally, the attachment structure 108 can be used to
attach the apparatus 102 or base 104 to an object. For instance,
the attachment structure 108 can be configured to attach the base
104 to the back of a car seat. In one example, the attachment
structure 108 can implement straps with buckles to secure the base
104 to a car seat. In another instance, the attachment structure
108 can be configured to attach the base 104 to a truck bed. For
example, the attachments means 108 can use straps with hooks to
secure the base 104 to slots in the truck bed. In yet another
instance, the attachment structure 108 can be configured to attach
the base 104 to a briefcase. For example, the attachment structure
108 can use elastic straps to secure the base 104 to the briefcase.
It is to be appreciated that the apparatus 102 can be attached to a
variety of objects including, but not limited to, a truck bed, a
car seat, an all-terrain vehicle, a briefcase, and a horse saddle.
It is to be appreciated that the scope of the present description
does not encompass backpacks and other objects carried on the
body.
[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, the straps 106 are attached to the base
104 in a horizontal orientation. Generally, the straps 106 are in
parallel with each other. In one instance, the straps 106 can form
a "ladder" configuration on the base 104. For example, the straps
106 can be spaced two inches apart in parallel across a length or
width of the base 104 in a generally horizontal orientation. It is
to be appreciated that the spacing of the straps 106 can be
tailored to a specific implementation of the apparatus 102. For
instance, based on a size of the object the apparatus 102 is to be
attached to, the spacing of the straps 106 can be altered. For
example, where the object is a briefcase, the straps 106 can be
spaced between a half-inch to one inch apart.
[0031] Generally, the straps 106 are comprised of a material
similar to the material used to make the base 104. A material that
is resistant to tearing and is highly durable can be implemented to
make the straps 106. For example, the straps 106 can be comprised
of a nylon webbing. In another example, the straps 106 can be
comprised of a polyurethane webbing. In yet another example, one or
more of the straps 106 can be comprised of a nylon webbing and one
or more of the straps 106 can be comprised of a polyurethane
webbing. It is to be appreciated that a variety of materials can be
implemented to make the straps 106.
[0032] As previously mentioned, the number of straps 106 can be
altered based on an application and/or an area of the base 104. The
width of the plurality of straps 106 can also be altered based on
an application and/or area of the base 104. In one instance, the
plurality of straps 106 can be one and a half inch wide. In another
instance, the plurality of straps 106 can be two inches wide. It is
to be appreciated that a variety of widths can be implemented.
[0033] To secure the straps 106 to the base 104, one or more types
of stitching can be implemented. In an embodiment, a box stitching
114 can be included to attach the straps 106 to the base 104.
Generally, ends 112 of the straps 106 are attached to the base 104
by box stitching. Box stitches can provide support for areas
subject to a stress. Depending on an application, the straps 106
can be attached to the base 104 by different stitches along a
length of the strap. For instance, each of the straps 106 can be
attached at different points along a length of each strap to the
base 104. For example, a strap can be attached to the base 104
every six inches by double stitches along a length of the strap.
For purposes of this description, an attachment point 116 can be a
location where a strap is coupled or attached to the base 104. In
one example, the ends 112 of the straps 106 can be attached by box
stitching and double stitches can be implemented to secure the
straps 106 to the base 104 at various attachment points 116. It is
to be appreciated that a variety of means of attaching the straps
106 to the base 104 can be implemented.
[0034] Referring to FIG. 1B, a cross-section of one of the
plurality of straps 106 is shown. To reinforce the apparatus 102,
the straps 106 can be implemented with a cord 110 core. In an
embodiment, the straps 106 are longitudinally folded around the
cord 110. Generally, a strap can be wrapped around the cord and
then be attached to the base 104. In an embodiment, the cord can be
fully enclosed in the strap. For example, the strap can be of
sufficient width to completely encase the cord be stitched closed
with the cord encased. The strap can then be secured to the base
104 with the cord enclosed inside. In another embodiment, the strap
can be folded longitudinally and laid over the cord. In this
embodiment, the strap is attached to the base 104 but the cord may
not be directly coupled to the base 104. In one instance, the cord
110 can be a 550 paracord. It is to be appreciated that a variety
of cords can be implemented in the present invention. Depending on
the application, the cord 110 can be chosen based on elasticity.
For example, a cord with low elasticity can be implemented with
heavier pouches and objects. In applications involving bigger
objects, a cord with high elasticity can be implemented.
A Second Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus
[0035] Referring to FIG. 2, a detailed diagram of an embodiment 200
illustrating an apparatus 202 is shown. The apparatus 202 is
similar to the apparatus 102, but with the addition of vertical
support straps integrated into the apparatus 202.
[0036] The apparatus 202 generally comprises a base 204, a
plurality of first or horizontal straps 206, one or more second or
vertical straps 208, and an attachment structure 210 for attaching
the base 204 to an object or support structure.
[0037] Similar to the base 104 of the first embodiment, the base
204 generally comprises a panel of fabric or material having a
definite size and shape. For instance, the base 204 can comprise a
four foot by four foot piece of nylon canvas. It is to be
appreciated that the base 204 can comprise a variety of materials
of varying sizes. The size of the base 204 can be determined based
on an intended application or use of the apparatus 202. For
example, the base 204 can be sized relatively large when
implemented in a truck bed, but relatively small when implemented
with a briefcase. In one instance, the length and number of the
horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 can be determined
based on a size of the base 204.
[0038] In a general construction, the horizontal straps 206 can be
attached or coupled to the base 204 in a horizontal orientation and
the vertical straps 208 can be attached or coupled to the base 204
in a generally vertical orientation. Alternatively, the second
straps 208 can be in a perpendicular orientation to the first
straps 206 when attached to the base 204.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 2, the horizontal straps 206 are attached
to the base 204 in parallel. In one instance, the horizontal straps
206 can form a ladder configuration on the base 204. For example,
the horizontal straps 206 can be spaced one inch apart across a
height of the base 204 in parallel. It is to be appreciated that
the spacing of the horizontal straps 206 can be tailored to a
specific implementation of the apparatus 202.
[0040] Similar to the straps 106 of the first embodiment 100, the
horizontal straps 206 can be implemented with a cord core. In an
embodiment, the horizontal straps 206 are longitudinally folded
around a cord core. Generally, a strap can be wrapped around the
cord and then be attached to the base 204. In an embodiment, the
cord can be fully enclosed in the strap. For example, the strap can
be of sufficient width to completely encase the cord and be
stitched closed with the cord encased. The strap can then be
secured to the base 104 with the cord enclosed inside. In another
embodiment, the strap can be laid over the cord and then secured to
the base 204.
[0041] A box stitching 212 can be implemented to attach the
horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 to the base 204.
In an embodiment, ends 214 of the horizontal straps 206 and ends
216 of the vertical straps 208 can be attached by a box stitch to
the base 204. It is to be appreciated that several different types
of stitches can be used to couple the horizontal straps 206 and the
vertical straps 208 to the base 204. In some embodiments, snap
fasteners and/or hook and loop patches can be implemented to attach
the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 to the base
204.
[0042] The vertical straps 208 can further be attached to the base
204 where the vertical straps 208 intersect with the horizontal
straps 206. In one example, double stitches can be implemented to
attach the vertical straps 208 to the horizontal straps 206 and the
base 204. In general, the vertical straps 208 can be attached on
top of the horizontal straps 206. In an embodiment, the vertical
straps 208 can be interleaved with the horizontal straps 206. In
one example, the vertical straps 208 are attached to the base 204
at each end by box stitches and are further attached to the
horizontal straps 206 and the base 204 by double stitches 218. It
is to be appreciated that varying means of attaching the base 204,
the horizontal straps 206, and the vertical straps 208 together can
be implemented.
[0043] Depending on an intended application, the number of
horizontal straps 206 and vertical straps 208 can be altered. For
instance, in applications where the intended load is relatively
light, only one vertical strap 208 can be implemented. For
applications with higher intended loads, three or more vertical
straps 208 can be implemented. As shown in FIG. 2, three vertical
straps 208 can be implemented. It is to be appreciated that the
number of vertical straps 208 can be altered based on a variety of
factors including, but not limited to, the size of the base 204,
the length of the horizontal straps 206, a maximum anticipated
weight or load, and/or an intended application.
[0044] The horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 are
generally comprised of a nylon webbing. In an embodiment, the
horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 are comprised of
a polyurethane webbing. It is to be appreciated that the horizontal
straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 can be comprised of one of a
plethora of materials. For instance, synthetic, organic, inorganic,
woven, and nonwoven fabrics can be implemented. In an embodiment,
the horizontal straps 206 can be comprised of the same material as
the vertical straps 208. In another embodiment, the horizontal
straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 can be comprised of
different materials.
[0045] Similar to the straps from the first embodiment, the
horizontal straps 206 and the vertical straps 208 can have varying
widths. Generally, the horizontal straps 206 and the vertical
straps 208 have a width approximately between one inch and three
inches. It is to be appreciated that the width of the straps can be
more or less than the stated range without exceeding the scope of
the specification.
A Third Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus for Use with an
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)
[0046] Referring to FIG. 3, an illustration of an ATV-model
apparatus 300 is shown. The ATV-model apparatus 300 is both
functionally and structurally very similar to the second embodiment
200. Using the above abstract description of the first embodiment
100 and the second embodiment 200, some additions with the
ATV-model apparatus 300 can include additional straps and box
stitching to allow the ATV-model apparatus 300 to be utilized in
tough outdoor activities.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 3, the ATV-model apparatus 300 can securely
attach to the back of a roll cage or a storage rack of a vehicle by
a heavy weight strap system. The ATV-model apparatus 300 can allow
a user to transport various items needed in the field that are
typically left behind due to the lack of storage available. Some of
these items can include, but are not limited to, first-aid kits,
towing/haul straps, hydration systems, shovels and other items used
to dig, and any other items a user deems necessary for a given
outdoor experience.
[0048] The ATV-model apparatus 300 can allow various pouches to be
secured to the invention allowing the user to have a storage system
designed for their specific duties and/or tasks. In the event the
duties change, the user can change and adapt the system to meet the
changing tasks at hand.
A Fourth Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus for Use with an
Automotive or ATV Passenger/Rear Seat
[0049] Referring to FIGS. 4A-4D, an illustration of various
embodiments of an automotive passenger/rear seat organizer is
shown. The automotive passenger/rear seat organizer can securely
attach to a seat of an automobile or ATV by a heavy weight
strapping system that can wrap around the seat. Everyday items can
be secured to the organizer. The organizer can reduce the chance of
injury to passengers of a vehicle by airborne items inside the
passenger compartment should the vehicle be involved in a
crash.
[0050] The organizer is shown with different configurations in
FIGS. 4A and 4B. The automotive organizer 400 shown in FIG. 4A
generally fits onto a seat of a sport utility vehicle. The
automotive organizer 400 has a plurality of horizontal straps and
three vertical straps for support. As shown, the automotive
organizer 400 is secured by a heavy weight strapping system that
envelopes the seat.
[0051] The ATV organizer 402 shown in FIG. 4C would generally fit
into a seat of an all-terrain vehicle. The ATV organizer 402 has a
more rectangular shape than the automotive organizer 400 shown in
FIG. 4B.
[0052] As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4D, various pouches 404a-404n can
be secured to the automotive organizer 400 and the ATV organizer
402. The organizers can allow a user to have a storage system
designed for their specific duties and/or tasks. In the event the
duties change, the user can change and adapt the organizers to meet
the changing tasks at hand. For instance, the user could transfer
the automotive organizer 400 from the back of a vehicle seat to an
ATV seat and vice versa.
A Fifth Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus for Use as a Pouch
Attachment Briefcase
[0053] Referring to FIGS. 5A-5B, an illustration of a pouch
attachment briefcase 500 is shown. Using the above abstract
description of previous embodiments, some additions with the pouch
attachment briefcase 500 include hook and loop fabric patches on
the interior of the briefcase and box stitching to allow the
product to be utilized in a tough market, such as law enforcement,
military, outdoor recreational applications, and work
environments.
[0054] The pouch attachment briefcase 500 can implement a strapping
system 502 similar to the apparatus 202 described above. The
strapping system 502 can be included on an exterior and an interior
of the briefcase. The strapping system 502 can allow a user the
ability to stock and carry additional resources into the field,
such as ammunition in law enforcement, military, and recreational
hunting applications. Weight-bearing pouches can be attached to the
strapping system 502 on the interior of the briefcase 500 as shown
in FIG. 5B, or on the exterior of the briefcase 500 as shown in
FIG. 5A. It is to be appreciated that the briefcase 500 can
implement the strapping system 502 on both the interior and
exterior of the briefcase. The pouch attachment briefcase 500 has
many uses and can be adapted to nearly every market to include,
though not limited to, cattle veterinarian applications in the
field, law enforcement, military, etc.
[0055] The pouch attachment briefcase 500 is designed to allow a
user to quickly and efficiently detach resources needed in the
field without having to take an entire system or inventory of
resources. Once depleted, a user has the ability to detach and
discard the empty pouch, or to restock the entire briefcase.
Quick-detach straps can be implemented to securely hold the
strapping system 502 in place on the briefcase, while allowing the
ability to quickly remove it for re-stocking or vehicle
exchanges.
An Sixth Embodiment of a Storage Apparatus for Use with a Cargo
Bed
[0056] Referring to FIG. 6, an illustration of a cargo bed
apparatus 600 is shown. Using the above abstract description of
previous embodiments, some additions with the cargo bed apparatus
600 include additional straps and box stitching to allow the
product to be utilized in a tough outdoor environment including,
though not limited to, transportation of small bulky items that are
hard to secure in a vehicle cargo bed. The same can be said for
all-terrain vehicles having cargo beds.
[0057] In an embodiment, the cargo bed apparatus 600 can implement
one or more attachment structure 602 to secure to a cargo bed. As
shown in FIG. 6, the attachment structure 602 can be a strap with a
hook that couples to a slot in a truck bed. It is to be appreciated
that other means can be implemented to secure the cargo bed
apparatus 600 to a cargo bed.
[0058] The cargo bed apparatus 600 allows a user to secure everyday
items to the apparatus 600 by using rubber "Bungee" style straps,
ratchet tie-downs, and/or any other types of straps available on
the market. An example, in one embodiment, is a propane-gas
canister being of an odd shape that is otherwise difficult to
secure in a typical cargo area. The cargo bed apparatus 600 can be
attached to an existing tie-down system of a truck or ATV to give a
user various options for securing equipment and supplies using
conventional straps already available on the market. Once a user
has completed the task, the cargo bed apparatus 600 can easily be
detached and removed from the cargo bed, then secured in a carry
case and stored behind a vehicle seat or any other available
storage location.
Alternative Embodiments and Other Variations
[0059] Each of the above-disclosed embodiments, variations, and
applications of the system can be abstracted in myriad other
potential applications that cannot adequately covered in this
document. The key features of the system are based upon giving its
user the ability to quickly and easily change the storage ability
to ever-changing environments, including the ability to support. By
choosing the applications and user needs related to their tasks,
the system can be a key feature in allowing the user to be more
efficient and effective at completing those tasks.
[0060] Accordingly, the various embodiments and variations thereof
described herein and/or illustrated in the accompanying Figures are
merely exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of the
inventive disclosure. It should be appreciated that numerous
variations of the invention have been contemplated as would be
obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of
this disclosure. Hence, those ordinarily skilled in the art will
have no difficulty devising myriad obvious variations and
improvements to the invention, all of which are intended to be
encompassed within the scope of the description and figures
herein.
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