U.S. patent application number 16/834517 was filed with the patent office on 2020-10-01 for compactable jacket.
The applicant listed for this patent is Bell Sports, Inc.. Invention is credited to Margaux J. Elliott, Joshua Rebol, Evan B. Turpen.
Application Number | 20200305521 16/834517 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004735659 |
Filed Date | 2020-10-01 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200305521 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Elliott; Margaux J. ; et
al. |
October 1, 2020 |
COMPACTABLE JACKET
Abstract
A jacket configured for compact storage, the jacket including a
body having a neck opening and a torso opening, the body being
configured to transition from an expanded state to a compacted
state, a hem comprising pairs of hem openings, an elastic cord
extending through the hem and the pairs of hem openings, clamps
corresponding to the pairs of hem openings, each clamp dividing the
elastic cord protruding from a corresponding pair of hem openings
into a first cord portion and a second cord portion, anchors
corresponding to the pairs of hem openings, each anchor coupling
the portion of the elastic cord protruding from the corresponding
pair of hem openings to the body, the first cord portion or second
cord portion being configured to apply an elastic tension force to
the body when stretched over the body in the compacted state to
thereby maintain the body in the compacted state.
Inventors: |
Elliott; Margaux J.; (Aptos,
CA) ; Turpen; Evan B.; (Aptos, CA) ; Rebol;
Joshua; (Aptos, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bell Sports, Inc. |
Scotts Valley |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004735659 |
Appl. No.: |
16/834517 |
Filed: |
March 30, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62825727 |
Mar 28, 2019 |
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16834517 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 2400/42 20130101;
A41D 1/02 20130101; A41D 3/00 20130101; A41D 15/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A41D 15/00 20060101
A41D015/00; A41D 3/00 20060101 A41D003/00; A41D 1/02 20060101
A41D001/02 |
Claims
1. A jacket configured for compact storage, the jacket comprising:
a body having a neck opening and a torso opening opposite the neck
opening, the body being configured transition from an expanded
state, in which the jacket is wearable, to a compacted state, in
which the jacket is not wearable; a hem located on the body
proximate to the torso opening and comprising one or more pairs of
hem openings, each pair of hem openings comprising two openings in
the hem; an elastic cord extending through the hem and the one or
more pairs of hem openings; one or more clamps corresponding to the
one or more pairs of hem openings, each clamp dividing a portion of
the elastic cord protruding from a corresponding pair of hem
openings into at least a first cord portion protruding from a first
hem opening in the pair of hem openings and a second cord portion
protruding from a second hem opening in the pair of hem openings;
and one or more anchors corresponding to the one or more pairs of
hem openings, each anchor coupling the portion of the elastic cord
protruding from the corresponding pair of hem openings to the body;
wherein one or more of the first cord portion and the second cord
portion are configured to apply an elastic tension force to the
body when stretched over the body in the compacted state to thereby
maintain the body in the compacted state; and wherein one or more
of the first cord portion and the second cord portion are
configured to apply an elastic tension force to an object when
stretched over the object to thereby secure the jacket to the
object.
2. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the compacted state comprises a
cylindrical shape.
3. The jacket of claim 2, wherein the cylindrical shape has a
diameter of less than 8 centimeters and a length of less than 25
centimeters.
4. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the one or more pairs of hem
openings comprise a first pair of hem openings and a second pair of
hem openings opposite the first pair of hem openings on the
hem.
5. The jacket of claim 4, wherein the first pair of hem openings
are located proximate a left side of the body and the second pair
of hem openings are locate proximate a right side of the body.
6. The jacket of claim 1, wherein each clamp divides the portion of
the elastic cord protruding from the corresponding pair of hem
openings into the first cord portion protruding from the first hem
opening in the pair of hem openings, the second cord portion
protruding from the second hem opening in the pair of hem openings,
and a cord loop protruding from the clamp.
7. The jacket of claim 6, wherein each anchor comprises a loop of
material that engages with the cord loop protruding from each
clamp.
8. The jacket of claim 7, wherein each anchor extends from and is
sewn into the hem.
9. The jacket of claim 1, wherein each first cord portion is
configured to apply an elastic tension force to the body when
stretched over the body in the compacted state to thereby maintain
the body in the compacted state.
10. The jacket of claim 9, wherein each second cord portion is
configured to apply an elastic tension force to the object when
stretched over the object to thereby secure the jacket to the
object.
11. The jacket of claim 1, wherein one of the first cord portion or
the second cord portion is configured to apply an elastic tension
force to the body and the object when stretched over the body in
the compacted state and the object, to thereby maintain the body in
the compacted state and secure the jacket to the object.
12. The jacket of claim 1, wherein each clamp is configured to lock
the cord in place to thereby prevent movement of the cord through
the clamp.
13. The jacket of claim 1, wherein each clamp comprises a spring
cord lock including an expansion spring configured to apply
pressure to a cord engagement member to thereby prevent movement of
the cord.
14. The jacket of claim 13, wherein spring cord lock comprises a
toggle button that, when compressed, acts to compress the expansion
spring and release the cord engagement member from engagement with
the cord.
15. The jacket of claim 1, wherein each clamp comprises a
fastener.
16. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises one or
more of: a mechanical fastener, a hook and loop fastener, a latch,
or a clip.
17. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a breathable
inner lining layer and an outer water resistant layer.
18. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the object comprises a bicycle
part.
19. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the bicycle part comprises a
handlebar.
20. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the elastic cord comprises an
elastic paracord.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION DATA
[0001] This Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/825,727, titled "JACKET BICYCLE STORAGE" and
filed Mar. 28, 2019.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Outdoor activities, such as mountain biking, offer an
enjoyable way to spend time in nature, while engaging in a fun
endeavor and obtaining possible benefits of physical toil and
exercise. Because such activities take place outdoors, weather
conditions may vary. To reduce the impact of inclement weather,
such as rain, outdoor adventurers, such as mountain bike riders,
may utilize clothing, such as rain jackets or wind jackets, to stay
warm and dry and help shield themselves from environmental moisture
and/or cold wind.
[0003] However, weather conditions often change, and many times,
when riding or otherwise being active outdoors, the wind and/or
rain and/or other inclement weather conditions may not persist
during the entire time the outdoor activity takes place. Outdoor
clothing, such as rain jackets or wind jackets, may not breathe or
otherwise ventilate extremely well and can feel bulky or cumbersome
for the wearer.
[0004] Therefore, it may be desirous for an outdoor enthusiast,
such as a mountain bike rider, to avoid wearing clothing, such as a
rain jacket, when the wearing of such clothing is not necessitated
or otherwise compelled by weather conditions, yet still have the
clothing accessible, if the weather changes in a manner prompting
the enthusiast to want to wear the clothing.
[0005] Various attempts have been made to provide a way for an
outdoor adventurer, such as a mountain bike rider, to stow or
otherwise carry outdoor clothing with them during their outdoor
activities. One solution is to attach clothing, when not in use,
around a user's body, such as by tying the arms of a rain jacket
around the wearer's waist. However, clothing attached in such a
manner can impede physical movement, may become unattached fairly
easily, may be cumbersome, and can present safety issues,
particularly if the clothing engages equipment such as mountain
bike wheels. Another solution is to store the clothing in a
backpack, a fanny-pack or some other bag or pouch. But, packs, bags
and pouches suffer from similar drawbacks like being cumbersome,
possibly impeding movement, and creating a need to for the user to
carry not only the clothing, but also the pack, bag or pouch.
[0006] Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts, such as mountain bike
riders, often desire to find alternative storage solutions apart
from a wearer's body. Some bikes, or other outdoor equipment, may
be designed with integral and/or external storage compartments that
may potentially fit various clothing items. However, such
equipment, like bikes having integral or external storage bays,
suffer from drawbacks of increased size and weight, which can
adversely affect equipment performance. Other attempts have been
made to secure clothing to outdoor equipment, such as a mountain
bike, by tying the clothing to the equipment, like tying a jacket
to a bike. Yet those attempts introduce the added burden of
carrying separate ropes, straps, or other securing implements, to
make sure the clothing is securely stowed, when not being worn by
an outdoor adventurer.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for improvements in compactable
clothing and compactable jackets.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a compactable jacket according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates multiple stages of compaction of the
compactable jacket according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates a hem and hem openings of the compactable
jacket according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates the structure of the hem openings,
elastic cord, and clamp of the compactable jacket according to an
exemplary embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates the compactable jacket in a compacted
state and bound by the elastic cord according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates a view of the clamp structure of the
compactable jacket according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0014] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate a method for securing the compacted
jacket to a bicycle handlebar according to an exemplary
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] While structures, articles of clothing, and methods are
described herein by way of examples and embodiments, those skilled
in the art recognize that the compactable jacket and methods for
compacting, binding, securing, and/or attaching the compactable
jacket are not limited to the embodiments or drawings described. It
should be understood that the drawings and description are not
intended to be limited to the particular form disclosed. Rather,
the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the appended
claims. Any headings used herein are for organizational purposes
only and are not meant to limit the scope of the description or the
claims. As used herein, 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.
[0016] This disclosure, its aspects and implementations, are not
limited to the specific material types, components, methods, or
other examples disclosed herein. Many additional material types,
components, methods, and procedures are contemplated for use with
particular implementations from this disclosure. Accordingly, for
example, although particular implementations are disclosed, such
implementations and implementing components may comprise any
components, models, types, materials, versions, quantities, and/or
the like as is known in the art for such systems and implementing
components, consistent with the intended operation.
[0017] The word "exemplary," "example," or various forms thereof
are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or
illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary"
or as an "example" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred
or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore,
examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and
understanding and are not meant to limit or restrict the disclosed
subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any
manner. It is to be appreciated that a myriad of additional or
alternate examples of varying scope could have been presented, but
have been omitted for purposes of brevity.
[0018] While this disclosure includes a number of implementations
in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will
herein be described in detail particular implementations with the
understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification of the principles of the disclosed methods and
systems, and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the
disclosed concepts to the implementations illustrated.
[0019] The present application is directed to a compactable jacket
(hereinafter "jacket"), that is configured for compact and secure
storage on a bicycle, such as on the handle bars, on the top tube,
and/or on the down tube. A variety of different implementations are
discussed below. Generally, these implementations may comprise a
jacket having at least one cinch strap, elastic cord, elastic draw
string, or other wrapping implement, and a clamp or other
mechanical fastening member configured to lock the strap, string or
other wrapping implement into place with regard to itself, wherein
the strap, string or wrapping implement is formed with, integrated
into, a part of, or otherwise attached to the jacket, and
positioned on the jacket so as to compressively secure the jacket
to a bicycle part around which the strap, string or wrapping
implement is wrapped and fixed into place by the mechanical
fastening member.
[0020] Such implementations generally function by allowing the
jacket to be folded and rolled into a compact dimension with the
strap, string or other wrapping implement still easily accessible
and functional to wrap around not only the jacket, when in a
compact configuration, but also the bicycle part, such as a
handlebar, so as to be securely fastened to the bicycle part. It
should be understood that the components depicted and discussed are
non-limiting examples, and that the contemplated components may be
combined with any of the other components in other
implementations.
[0021] Implementations of the presently disclosed jacket may
include a rain jacket, windbreaker, lightweight poncho, pullover,
hoodie, lightweight coat, or other clothing implement configured
for wearing on a user's body. The jacket may include a hood, an
extended neck covering, full sleeves, and/or shortened sleeves; it
may come in a variety of sizes and be shaped to fit men, women
and/or children; it may include a center zipper facilitating easy
dressing and undressing; it may include one or more pockets; it may
be comprised of one or more layers and may, for example, include an
outer waterproof or water resistant layer and an inner breathable
liner layer; it may be formed of synthetic, or non-synthetic
materials and/or any operable combination of both types of
materials; and, it may be formed via any operable stitching,
seaming, joining or other textile and clothing forming
processes.
[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates a jacket in an expanded state according
to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the jacket includes
a body 100 having a neck opening 101 and a torso opening 102
opposite the neck opening. As depicted, the jacket includes a
central zipper and is zipped up. However, the functionality of the
jacket may operate with embodiments having no central zipper, with
embodiments having a central zipper that is unzipped or partially
zipped, and/or embodiments having buttons or other closure
mechanisms.
[0023] The body can take various forms, depending on the specific
type and style of jacket. For example, for a light bicycling
jacket, the body can have a breathable inner lining layer and an
outer water resistant layer.
[0024] The body 100 of the jacket is configured transition from an
expanded state, in which the compactable jacket is wearable, to a
compacted state, in which the compactable jacket is not wearable
and in which the jacket can be compactly and securely stowed. In
order to transition from an expanded state to a compacted state,
the jacket may be folded, rolled and/or otherwise compressed into a
compact condition facilitating efficient storage (such as on a
bicycle part).
[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates multiple stages of compaction of the
compactable jacket according to an exemplary embodiment. The jacket
can be laid flat as shown at numeral 1. The jacket compaction
process can then be executed in a series of actions. For example,
the sleeves can be folded inward, as shown at numeral 2, such that
the jacket in arranged in a narrow elongated strip. It should be
appreciated that the manner and process by with the jacket is
compacted can vary, with differing folding, rolling, and squishing
actions that can facilitate an adequately and operably compacted
jacket that can then be attached to some object for ease of
transport (such as bicycle handlebars).
[0026] Once the jacket has been narrowed, a further compaction step
can include rolling the jacket, as shown at numeral 3. The jacket
can be rolled-up by starting at the top, or at the neck opening and
rolling toward the bottom or torso opening of the jacket. Rolling
the jacket in the manner described results in the jacket being in
the final compacted state. The compacted state can be the
cylindrically-shaped rolled configuration of the jacket shown at
numeral 4 of FIG. 2.
[0027] Of course, other shapes can be utilized for the compacted
state that also facilitate effective attachment of the jacket to an
object such as a part of a bicycle. One benefit of compacting the
jacket for bicyclists is that the impact of the jacket on bike
handling is minimized after it is compacted and attached to a
bicycle part. Another benefit is that the jacket can be stored
securely within or on the small frame of a bicycle.
[0028] The jacket additionally includes a hem that is located on
the body proximate to the torso opening. The hem itself includes
one or more pairs of hem openings, each pair of hem openings
comprising two openings in the hem. As will be discussed in greater
detail below, the hem houses an elastic component (such as an
elastic cord) that emerges from the hem openings and is used to
maintain the compacted form of the jacket and secure the jacket
onto objects.
[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates a hem and hem openings of the compactable
jacket according to an exemplary embodiment. In the example of FIG.
3, the body 100 of the jacket has a hem 103 that is located
proximate to the torso opening 102 and that has two pairs of hem
openings, shown in dashed rectangles and denoted 105(1) and 105(2).
The first pair of hem openings is located on the hem proximate to
the left side of the jacket and the second pair of hem openings are
located on the hem proximate to the right side of the jacket (i.e.,
opposite the first pair of hem openings).
[0030] The hem also has an elastic cord 104 that runs through a
cavity in the hem and that emerges at each of the pairs of hem
openings 105(1) and 105(2). The elastic cord extends through the
hem and any pairs of hem openings within the hem. The elastic cord
can be constructed of any suitable material that provides suitable
elasticity. For example, the elastic cord can be paracord (also
known as parachute chord) or a cord comprised of any type of
synthetic material that provides elasticity. Alternatively, the
jacket can utilize a number of other constricting and binding
mechanisms, such as cinch straps, hook and loop straps, non-elastic
cord, belts, drawstrings, etc.
[0031] The elastic cord/cinch straps/binding mechanism helps to
securely fasten and store the jacket on an object, such as
handlebars. The one or more elastic cords, or portions thereof, may
be positioned on and/or in portions of the jacket. For example, the
one or more elastic cords may reside in a tube-like hem located at
the bottom torso opening of the jacket.
[0032] One function of the elastic cord, in operable combination
with the fastener member(s), such as spring cord lock(s), may be to
bunch, tighten, or otherwise reduce the size of the torso opening
of the jacket. Such size-reducing functionality may permit a wearer
of the jacket to cinch-up the bottom of the jacket tight against
their lower torso and/or hips, thereby helping to keep the jacket
in place around their body (preventing it from flapping around) and
also helping to prevent wind and/or moisture from penetrating the
bottom torso opening of the jacket while worn by a user. Another
function pertinent to the present disclosure may involve the
provision, locating and utilization of the elastic cord(s), in
operable combination with the fastener members, such as spring cord
lock(s), in a manner so as to efficiently and effectively secure
the jacket into place on a bicycle part, such as the handlebars of
a mountain bike, for efficient storage thereon. A portion, or
portions, of the elastic cord(s) may protrude from openings of the
tube-like hem of the jacket. It may be advantageous to locate the
protruding location(s) of the cord portion(s) on the jacket in a
manner that facilitates easy access of the cord portion(s) when the
jacket has been folded, rolled, and/or otherwise compacted in
preparation for secure attachment to an object, such as a bicycle
part.
[0033] While the example of FIG. 3 illustrates two pairs of hem
openings, the jacket can have as little as one pair of hem openings
or many more hem openings, as this example is not intended to be
limiting.
[0034] The jacket additionally includes one or more clamps
corresponding to the one or more pairs of hem openings. As will be
shown in FIGS. 4-5, each clamp can divide a portion of the elastic
cord that protrudes from a corresponding pair of hem openings into
at least a first cord portion protruding from a first hem opening
in the pair of hem openings and a second cord portion protruding
from a second hem opening in the pair of hem openings.
[0035] The jacket further includes one or more anchors
corresponding to the one or more pairs of hem openings, each anchor
coupling the portion of the elastic cord protruding from the
corresponding pair of hem openings to the body.
[0036] The elastic cord can be looped through or otherwise engaged
with anchors located on the jacket. The anchors may be loops of
strong material securely sewn onto the jacket in locations
potentially near where the elastic cord(s) protrude out from the
openings of the tube-like hem. The anchors may extend from and be
sewn into the hem. The anchors afford various advantages, such as
serving as reinforcement structures allowing users to stretch,
pull, apply tension, or otherwise exert significant force upon the
elastic cords, without the elastic cords tearing out of the
tube-like hem, or otherwise breaking off from the jacket.
[0037] Another advantage afforded by the anchors is that they may
help keep the corresponding elastic cord portions in proper
location and orientation with respect to the jacket, such as a
condition when the jacket is fully expanded, by being laid flat or
by being worn by a user, and/or such as when the jacket is
compacted into a compact state.
[0038] Still another advantage afforded by the anchors is that a
single elastic cord may be looped through the tube-like hem of the
jacket, protruded through the opening(s) of the hem, extended
through or otherwise made to physically interact with the clamp(s)
or fastener members, such as a spring cord lock, and then joined
back with itself, either by being tied to itself, thermally joined
or welded to itself, mechanically fastened to itself, such as by
sewing or with assistance of an added mechanical joining member,
chemically fastened to itself, such as by adhesive, and/or by any
operable joining process and/or combinations thereof. The anchors,
therefore, permit the secure and operable attachment of the
clamp(s), such as spring cord locks, to the elastic cord in a
manner that prevents the clamp(s) of fastener member(s), such as
spring cord locks, from simply slipping off or otherwise
disengaging from an end portion or loop extension of the elastic
cord. In addition, the anchors may facilitate manual gripping and
handling of the jacket during attachment and storage of the jacket
onto an object, such as onto bicycle handlebars.
[0039] FIG. 4 illustrates the structure of the hem openings,
elastic cord, and clamp of the compactable jacket according to an
exemplary embodiment. In particular, FIG. 4 illustrates the
component parts of the jacket proximate to a single pair of hem
openings, 106A and 106B, in the hem 103. The clamp 107 divides the
portion of the elastic cord 104 that protrudes/emerges from the
pair of hem openings 106A and 106B into a first cord portion 104A
that protrudes/emerges from hem opening 106A and a second cord
portion 104B that protrudes/emerges from hem opening 106B.
[0040] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4, the clamp 107 can also
divide the cord 104 into a third cord portion in the form of a cord
loop 104C protruding from the clamp 107. As shown in the example of
FIG. 4, the anchor 108 can be a loop of material that engages with
the cord loop 104C protruding from the clamp 107. The anchor
material can be comprised of metal, leather, fabric, plastic,
synthetic fiber, or some combination of these materials. The other
end of the anchor, opposite the portion of cord to which it is
attached, can extend from and be attached to the body of the
jacket. For example, anchor can be sewn into the hem of the
jacket.
[0041] Of course, the anchor can couple the portion of the elastic
cord protruding from a corresponding pair of hem openings to the
body in other ways. For example, if the clamp divides the portion
of elastic cord into only two cord portions, then the anchor can
directly engage with the clamp (such as by looping through the
aperture in the body of the clamp) and couple the clamp to the body
of the jacket, thereby coupling the portion of elastic cord to the
body. Alternatively, the anchor can engage with one of the two cord
portions using a loop material and couple the cord portion to the
body of the jacket. Many variations are possible and these examples
are not intended to be limiting.
[0042] The jacket is constructed such that one or more of the first
cord portion and the second cord portion are configured to apply an
elastic tension force to the body of the jacket when stretched over
the body in the compacted state. This elastic tension force
minimizes the overall volume of the jacket and maintains the body
of the jacket in the compacted state.
[0043] The jacket is further constructed such that one or more of
the first cord portion and the second cord portion are configured
to apply an elastic tension force to an object when stretched over
the object, such as the handlebars of a bicycle. This elastic
tension forces serves to secure the jacket to the object. The use
of the elastic cord of the jacket for this purpose eliminates the
need for persons to carry any additional materials to secure or
store the jacket.
[0044] FIG. 5 illustrates the jacket in a compacted state according
to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the compacted state
can be a cylindrical shape formed by folding and rolling the jacket
as discussed earlier. The cylindrical shape can be very compact for
minimal wind resistance and bulk (for the use-case where a user has
attached the jacket to a bicycle). For example, when the jacket is
a light jacket such as a windbreaker, the cylindrical shape can
have a diameter of less than 8 centimeters and a length of less
than 25 centimeters. In order to achieve these dimensions in the
compacted state, the thickness of the body of the jacket can be
approximately 1 millimeter or less than 1 millimeter.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 5, the hem of the jacket has two pairs of
hem openings, which have corresponding clamps 107(1) and 107(2).
Each clamp (107(1) and 107(2)) divides the part of the cord 104
that protrudes from the corresponding pair of hem openings into a
first cord portion, a second cord portion, and a cord loop. Both of
the cord loops are secured to the body 100 of the jacket with
corresponding anchors 108(1) and 108(2).
[0046] The clamp structure will now be described in greater detail.
FIG. 6 illustrates a view of the structure of a clamp in the
compactable jacket according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0047] Each clamp is configured to lock the elastic cord in place
to thereby prevent and/or restrict movement of the cord through the
clamp. As shown in FIG. 6, clamp 107 can be a spring cord lock. The
elastic cord resides in a pass-through opening of the spring cord
lock. The spring cord lock includes an expansion spring 107A
configured to apply pressure to a cord engagement member inside the
clamp 107 to thereby prevent movement of the cord 104 through the
pass-through opening.
[0048] The spring cord lock can include a toggle button 107B that,
when compressed, acts to compress the expansion spring 107A and
temporarily release the cord engagement member from engagement with
the cord 104. The toggle button 107B, when compressed, acts to
compress the expansion spring and release the cord engagement
member from engagement with the elastic cord. As such, a user may
depress or otherwise push down on the toggle button, and then slide
or otherwise move a portion of the elastic cord through the opening
of the spring cord lock. When the toggle button is released, the
expansion spring again expands against strap engagement member,
which engages the elastic cord and clamps or otherwise fastens it
into a locked and secure position with regard to the spring cord
lock.
[0049] The spring cord lock can further include a handle-shaped
aperture 107C built into the body of the spring cord lock. This
handle-shaped aperture 107C can be used to attach items to the
jacket and/or to pass additional cords, strings, or fastening
members through the jacket. The handle shape can also be utilized
as a latching mechanism to secure the end of the elastic cord after
it has been stretched around the body of the compacted jacket
and/or object to which the jacket is to be attached.
[0050] The clamp can be implemented using a variety of different
structures, such as fasteners, including a mechanical fastener, a
hook and loop fastener, a latch, and/or a clip. For example, the
clamp can be hook and loop type fasteners existent on a portion, or
portions of the elastic cord and/or the jacket, buttons, clips,
latches and/or other like implements configured to facilitate
fastening and securing of the elastic cord. If a different type of
clamp is used, then alternative toggle components can be used, such
as latches, locks, bindings, etc.
[0051] Additionally, when a cinch strap is used, a mechanical
fastener can include a knot element, pre-created or created by the
user, wherein the knot element serves to mechanically fasten strap
portions together in a manner that facilitates securing of the rain
jacket to a bicycle.
[0052] Embodiments having a clamp, such as a spring cord lock, may
have an expansion spring set in compression against a strap
engagement member, wherein the strap engagement member is
configured to engage the cinch strap, as the cinch strap (often
embodied as a bungee-like elastic para cord) resides in a
pass-through opening of the spring cord lock.
[0053] Returning to FIG. 5, techniques for maintaining the jacket
in a compacted state and securing the jacket to an object will now
be discussed. As shown in in FIG. 5, for each pair of hem openings,
one of the cord portions formed by the clamps is stretched around
the body of the jacket in the compacted state. The cord portion
that is stretched over the body of the jacket in the compacted
state can be configured to apply an elastic tension force to the
body when stretched over the body in the compacted state to thereby
maintain the body in the compacted state. For example, the cord
portion can be short enough that when it is expanded to fit at
least partially around the compacted jacket, the tension in the
cord portion increases and prevents slippage of jacket.
[0054] Each second cord portion formed by the clamps (the cord
portion that is not stretched over the jacket) can then be used to
secure the jacket to an object. In this case, each second cord
portion can be configured to apply an elastic tension force to the
object when stretched over the object to thereby secure the jacket
to the object. For example, the second cord portion can have a very
short length while maintaining sufficient elasticity to stretch
over a bicycle handlebar and maintain a high level of tension on
the outer circumference (or a portion thereof) of the
handlebar.
[0055] Of course, various different techniques can be used to
couple the compacted jacket to an object and to maintain the
compacted state of the jacket. For example, when each clamp divides
the portion of the elastic cord protruding from a corresponding
pair of hem openings into a first cord portion and a second cord
portion, then one of the first cord portion or the second cord
portion can be stretched around both the body of the jacket in a
compacted form and the object to which the jacket is to be secured.
In this case, one of the first cord portion or the second cord
portion can be configured to apply an elastic tension force to the
body of the jacket and the object when stretched over the body in
the compacted state and the object, to thereby maintain the body in
the compacted state and secure the jacket to the object.
[0056] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate a method for securing the compacted
jacket to a bicycle handlebar according to an exemplary embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 7A, one of the cord portions (formed by the clamp)
is itself formed into a loop shape and stretched around a
circumference of the compacted jacket body and the circumference of
a bicycle handlebar. FIG. 7B illustrates that this loop shape can
then be fastened in place through engagement with the clamp (such
as by looping it around the clamp) and the tension in the cord will
hold the clamp in place. The constriction of the cord and the
elastic tension will additionally keep the jacket in a compacted
state and keep the jacket closely attached to the handlebar of the
bicycle.
[0057] When a portion of an elastic cord is wrapped around a
portion of the compacted jacket and also a portion of a bicycle
part, that wrapped-around portion of the elastic cord may be
clamped and fastened by the clamp, such as a spring cord lock. The
clamp can be located in a position to facilitate binding of the
compacted jacket and attachment. The clamp or fastener member, such
as a spring cord lock, may have a dimension that is larger than the
combined dimension of the operably engaged elastic cord as it is
wrapped around the clamp. Thus, when under tension, that is
effectuated, at least in part, by an elastic resistive nature of an
elastic cord in its stretched condition while wrapped around a
portion of the jacket and a portion of the object, the elastic cord
can remain securely wrapped around the clamp. In such a fastened
condition, the elastic cord may maintain secure attachment of the
rain jacket to an object such as a bicycle part, thereby storing
the jacket on the bicycle part even when the bicycle is operated in
various environmental conditions, such as along a bumpy trail, or
during high winds.
[0058] As discussed above, in a compacted configuration, the jacket
exists in a condition more conducive to efficient attachment to an
object, such as bicycle handlebars. As depicted in FIGS. 7A-7B, a
first elastic cord portion of the jacket can be wrapped around the
jacket and also around a portion of the bicycle part and fastened
in place to help secure the compacted jacket to the bicycle part.
Moreover, as depicted in FIGS. 7A-7B, a second elastic cord portion
can additionally be wrapped around the jacket and also another
portion of the bicycle part, and likewise fastened in place to help
further secure the jacket to the bicycle part, such as a
handlebar.
[0059] To disengage the jacket from the object, or otherwise to
unfasten the elastic cord from a securely wrapped position around
the object, a user may apply force to purposefully and particularly
unfasten the clamp or fastener. For example, where the clamp or
fastener is a spring cord lock, a user may stretch or otherwise
maneuver the elastic cord out and around the corresponding clamp,
such as the spring cord lock, thereby freeing the cord from its
engaged position around the clamp. Once the elastic cord is freed
from its location around the clamp, the elastic cord can then be
unwrapped from around the object and the jacket can be removed from
its secure storage position. If a plurality of elastic cords or
elastic cord portions, along with a corresponding plurality of
clamps, such as spring cord locks, are included in the jacket and
utilized to secure the jacket to a bicycle part, then the methods
of engaging and securing the jacket to the object, such as
handlebars, as well as disengaging and releasing the jacket from
secure attachment to the bicycle part, may be carried forth in like
manner.
[0060] When securely attached to and stored on a bicycle part, such
as bicycle handlebars, as illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B, the jacket
may be located generally on top of the bicycle part and may extend
approximately axially along the bicycle part, such as handlebars,
so as to be substantially centered with regard to the approximate
axis of the bicycle part. It should be appreciated that other
locations and orientations may be utilized for secure attachment
and storage of jacket embodiments on a bicycle part. For example,
handlebar geometry and dimensions may vary from bike to bike, and
users may mount and store jacket embodiments on bicycle handlebars
in any manner that is operably effective with regard to the
particular handlebar geometry and dimensions. Moreover, users may
store the jacket on or along a top tube of a bicycle. Moreover,
depending on bike geometry, users may also store a jacket
embodiment on or along a down tube of a bicycle. Depending on the
length of a bicycle seat post, various embodiment may facilitate
storage of the jacket along the seat post. The jacket may be
configured to match the geometry and size of one or more bicycle
parts, to facilitate storage on various sized and shaped.
[0061] It will be understood that the compactable jacket is not
limited to the specific components disclosed herein, as any
components consistent with the intended operation of the jacket can
be utilized. Accordingly, for example, it should be understood
that, while the drawings, images and accompanying textual
description show and disclose particular jacket implementations,
any such implementation may comprise any shape, size, style, type,
model, version, class, grade, measurement, concentration, material,
weight, quantity, and/or the like consistent with the intended
operation of the jacket.
[0062] The concepts disclosed herein are not limited to the
specific jacket implementations shown herein. For example, it is
specifically contemplated that the components included in the
jacket can be formed of any of many different types of materials or
combinations that can readily be formed, joined, and/or assembled
into shaped objects and that are consistent with the intended
operation of the jacket. For example, the elemental components may
be formed of: organic materials, synthetic materials, blends or
organic materials, synthetic materials and/or combinations thereof,
and/or other like materials; rubbers (synthetic and/or natural)
and/or other like materials; elastomers and/or other like
materials; polymers and/or other like materials; metals and/or
metal alloys; and/or any combination of the foregoing.
[0063] Furthermore, the components of the jacket may be
manufactured separately and then assembled together, or any or all
of the components may be manufactured simultaneously and integrally
joined with one another. Manufacture of these components separately
or simultaneously, as understood by those of ordinary skill in the
art, may involve sewing, threading, weaving, stitching, hemming,
sealing, stretching, joining, screening, fastening, attaching, or
otherwise appropriately assembling. If any of the components are
manufactured separately, they may then be coupled or removably
coupled with one another in any manner, such as with adhesive, a
plastic weld (thermally or chemically), or via clothing and/or
textile manufacturing implements and processes, any combination
thereof, and/or the like for example, depending on, among other
considerations, the particular material(s) forming the
components.
[0064] Having described and illustrated the principles of our
invention with reference to the described embodiment, it will be
recognized that the described embodiment can be modified in
arrangement and detail without departing from such principles. It
should be understood that the programs, processes, or methods
described herein are not related or limited to any particular type
of computing environment, unless indicated otherwise. Elements of
the described embodiment shown in software may be implemented in
hardware and vice versa.
[0065] In view of the many possible embodiments to which the
principles of our invention may be applied, we claim as our
invention all such embodiments as may come within the scope and
spirit of the following claims and equivalents thereto.
* * * * *