MODULAR BAG

Abstract

Panels of a bag are configured to enclose an inner chamber in a bag with a generally rectangular cubic shape. Panels may be integrally connected to other panels or otherwise joined to other panels along edges. Integrally connected panels can be separated along edges from other panels so that the bag can be opened to expose a substantially flat bag chassis. When fully opened, and the chassis is lying flat, every interior surface of the bag is exposed to provide easy access to items stored within the bag. Handles and shoulder straps are configured to enable a user to wear, carry, or otherwise handle the bag. Interior and exterior fasteners and fastening surfaces are configured to enable a user to secure items or modular containers inside or on the bag.

Description

BACKGROUND

Carrying bags often include several zippers or other closure methods of a variety of sizes and lengths in order to provide users with access to the bag's different compartments. Such bags are designed with the intent to give a user a variety of compartments in different shapes, sizes, and locations for optimum convenience. However, including many compartments and zippers has several drawbacks. A user who cannot immediately recall where a particular object is stored in the bag may have to search through several compartments before finding the desired object. Even a user who is able to immediately recall where a particular object is stored may still have to navigate through other objects stored within the compartment to find the desired object. Often, including more compartments equates to including smaller compartments or compartments configured in a shape or location that makes access more difficult. Furthermore, existing bags are not capable of opening completely. Most bags, for instance, have hidden corners or otherwise obscured locations within pockets, pouches, and/or compartments that are not immediately visible to a user without adjustment. Each of these drawbacks become much more serious to a user who needs immediate access to the contents of the bag, such as a user in an emergency situation or a user who needs to retrieve equipment as quickly as possible. Even if a user's needs are less dire, most users agree that ease of access to a bag's contents is a desirable quality of a carrying bag. Therefore, there is an ongoing need for an improved bag capable of providing a user with immediate access to the bag's contents.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure include a modular bag configured to provide a user with immediate access to objects stored within one or more cavities of the bag. Immediate and complete access is provided to a user by means of zippers or other closure means which can separate panels of the bag such that the entire bag can lay open on a flat surface. Certain embodiments included detachable shoulder straps, and one or more handles configured to enable a user to carry the bag or pull open panels of the bag. Interior and exterior fasteners and fastener surfaces may be included to enable one or more containers or objects to be secured to the interior or exterior of the bag.

In certain embodiments, the bag includes a front panel, back panel, left side panel, right side panel, top panel, and bottom panel. The top, front, and bottom panels are integrally connected. A main zipper joins the integrally connected top, front, and bottom panels to the back, left side, and right side panels. When the main zipper is closed, the panels are secured in a generally rectangular cube shape with an interior chamber. When the main zipper is opened, the entire bag opens into a substantially flat open chassis composed out of the front, back, left side, right side, top, and bottom panels.

In certain embodiments, the bag includes a first front panel, second front panel, back panel, left side panel, right side panel, top panel, and bottom panel. The first front panel is integrally connected to the top panel and the second front panel is integrally connected to the bottom panel. One or more closure means are configured between panels such that when the closure means are closed, the bag is a generally rectangular cube shape with an interior chamber. When the closure means are opened, the entire bag opens into a substantially flat open chassis composed out of the first front, second front, left side, right side, top, and bottom panels.

In certain embodiments, the bag includes one or more front panels, a back panel, a left side panel, a right side panel, a top panel, and a bottom panel. At least one of the one or more front panels is integrally connected to the bottom panel. One or more closure means are configured to close the bag and secure the panels together to form a generally rectangular cube with an interior chamber. When the closure means are opened, the entire bag opens into a substantially flat open chassis composed out of the one or more front panels, the back panel, the left side panel, the right side panel, the top panel, and the bottom panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and features can be obtained, a more particular description of the subject matter briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments and are not therefore to be considered limiting in scope, embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular bag with panels and edges labeled.

FIG. 2 illustrates a back view of an embodiment of a modular bag including shoulder straps and a main zipper.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate various perspective views of an embodiment of a modular bag that has been opened at various locations along a main zipper to access an inner chamber of the bag.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular bag being opened and laid flat into an open chassis configuration.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular bag with a left side panel and a right side panel opened.

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate perspective views of an embodiment of a modular bag with a top panel and side panel opened respectively.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a split front panel configuration of an embodiment of a modular bag.

FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate various perspective views of a split front panel configuration of an embodiment of a modular bag that has been opened at various locations along a main zipper to access an inner chamber of the bag.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a split front panel configuration of an embodiment of a modular bag being opened and laid flat into an open chassis configuration.

FIG. 10 illustrates a split front panel configuration of an embodiment of a modular bag where the first front flap may be folded down and secured to itself

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed embodiments are generally directed to an improved modular bag that includes six or more panels joined along their edges by closure means or seams to form a generally rectangular cube that encloses an interior chamber. In some embodiments, the bag includes six panels, at least of three of which are integrally connected. A main zipper joins the integrally connected panels to the remaining panels such that when the main zipper is closed, the bag is generally a rectangular cubic shape enclosing an interior chamber. When the main zipper is fully opened, the entire bag opens into a substantially flat chassis composed out of each panel making up the bag.

In some embodiments, the bag includes seven panels, two of which form a split front panel. One front panel is integrally connected to a top panel and another is integrally connected to a bottom panel. Closure means or seams join the various panels together such that when the closure means are closed, the bag is generally a rectangular cube shape enclosing an interior chamber. When the closure means are fully opened, the entire bag opens into a substantially flat chassis composed out of each of the seven panels making up the bag.

In some embodiments, the bag includes six or more panels joined along their edges by closure means or seams. At least two or more of the six or more panels are integrally connected. One or more closure means are configured to close the bag into a generally rectangular cube shape enclosing an interior chamber. When the closure means are fully opened, the entire bag opens into a substantially flat chassis formed from each of the six or more panels making up the bag.

In certain embodiments, the bag may include detachable shoulder straps, side handles, panel handles, flaps, and interior or exterior fasteners or fastening surfaces. These and other features disclosed in the various embodiments of the improved modular bag overcome deficiencies existing in current bags by providing a user with a bag optimized for utility, customizability, and rapid access to some or all contents stored within the bag.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of an improved modular bag 100 with panels and edges labeled. The improved modular bag 100 is a generally rectangular cube with top panel 102, front panel 104, bottom panel 106, left side panel 108, right side panel 110, and back panel 200 shown hereafter in FIG. 2. The panels are joined along edges to enclose an inner chamber 330 of the bag. Specifically, the top panel 102 is joined with the back panel 200 along top back edge 120, with the left side panel 108 along top left edge 122, with the right side panel 110 along top right edge 124, and with the front panel along top front edge 146. The left side panel 108 is joined with the front panel 104 along front left edge 126, with the back panel 200 along back left edge 134, and with bottom panel 106 along bottom left edge 130. The right panel is joined with front panel 104 along the front right edge 128, with back panel 200 along back right edge 136, and with bottom panel 106 along bottom right edge 132. The bottom panel 106 is joined with front panel 104 along front bottom edge 144 and with back panel 200 along bottom back edge 214 shown hereafter in FIG. 2.

The various edges may join the various panels by means of zippers, Velcro™ (or other hook and loop fasteners), sewn seams and/or other fasteners. In the illustrated embodiment, bottom left edge 130, front left edge 126, top left edge 122, top back edge 120, top right edge 124, front right edge 128, and bottom right edge 132 comprise one continuous main zipper 220. In some embodiments, one continuous Velcro strip may similarly join panels along the same edges. In some embodiments, one or more zipper tracks or Velcro strips are used to join panels along edges instead of a single continuous track. Other edges, such as back left edge 134, back right edge 136, and bottom back edge 214 may comprise sewn seams.

It will be appreciated that the references to Velcro surfaces, herein, can also be interchanged with other fastener surfaces, such as other hook and loop fasteners or any other types of fasteners (including magnetic fasteners) that are configured to be detachably connected. In this regard, the references to a loop surface or a hook surface can also be interchanged and/or replaced with other sets of mating fastener surfaces.

In some embodiments, the various panels of the bag are joined by a single piece of continuous material that makes up two or more panels. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, top panel 102, front panel 104, and bottom panel 106 are integrally connected and made of a single continuous piece of material such that top front edge 146 and front bottom edge 144 are not formed by zippers, Velcro, or sewn seams. The top front edge 146 and front bottom edge 144 may also comprise a crease in the single piece of continuous material in order to make the edges more flexible at creased edges. The illustrated embodiment using a single continuous piece of material for panels has the advantage of adding strength to edges and reducing the likelihood of tear formation. Such added strength is particularly important in light of at least one method by which the bag can be opened shown hereafter in FIGS. 3A-3C. Further advantages of using a single continuous piece of material for panels include reduced complexity in manufacturing, reduced likelihood of need for repair, and increased rigidity for the bag as a whole.

In the illustrated embodiment, the improved modular bag 100 comprises side handles 114, a top handle 160, and a back handle 150. Side handles 114 are integrally connected to the left side panel 108 and the right side panel 110 adjacent to the front left edge 126 and front right edge 128 respectively such that the midpoint of side handles 114 approximately aligns with a center of gravity of the bag. This enables a user to lift, carry, or otherwise handle the bag by means of the side handles 114 with a minimal degree of readjustment to balance the weight of the bag. Side handles 114 may be small to reduce the likelihood of getting caught in features of a user's environment and to promote handle rigidity. In the illustrated embodiment, side handles 114 are long enough that a user can comfortably grip both handles with a single hand when the bag is filled to its maximum capacity. Top handle 160 and back handle 150 may be similarly configured to allow a user to grip both handles with a single hand.

In some embodiments, the improved modular bag 100 may comprise one or more side handles 114 which are secured to the left side panel 108 and/or right side panel 110 and diagonally traverses the left and/or right side panel 108, 110 to provide a diagonal handle to hold the bag, thus allowing a user to carry the bag using only one of the one or more diagonal handles that is substantially aligned with the center of gravity of the bag. Similarly, in some embodiments, the side handles 114 may be configured substantially as shown in the illustrated embodiment, and fasteners, loops, and/or hooks may be connected to the left and right side panels 108, 110 near the side handles 114 so that side handles 114 can be repositioned as diagonal handles. In similar embodiments, the side handles 114 may be positioned closer to the center of left and right side panels 108, 110 to be more aligned with the center of gravity of the bag, or fasteners, loops, and/or hooks may be disposed on the left and right side panels 108, 110 near both attachment points of the side handles 114 to enable a user to reposition them to be more aligned with the center of gravity of the bag. Thus, a user may be given substantial freedom to choose and adjust the position, orientation, or configuration of side handles 114 to optimally suit their needs.

In the illustrated embodiment, exterior surfaces of the various panels comprise features to provide extra convenience to a user and/or extra functionality and carrying capacity to the bag. Left side panel 108 and right side panel 110 may comprise exterior pockets 140 which can be opened or closed to user access by means of exterior pocket zippers 142, snaps, Velcro, fasteners, or other closure methods. In some embodiments, exterior pockets 140 may also comprise openings that remain open to allow easy access at any moment. In addition, exterior pockets 140 may or may not be in communication with an inner chamber 330 of the bag. Top panel 102, front panel 104, or bottom panel 106 may be similarly configured with exterior pockets. In one embodiment, every panel comprises only a single smooth exterior surface to promote a simple aesthetic appearance and reduce the likelihood of exterior features of the bag catching or snagging onto a user's environment.

In some embodiments, exterior surfaces of one or more of the top panel 102, front panel 104, bottom panel 106, left side panel 108, and right side panel 110 include one or more fasteners or fastener surfaces. The fasteners or fastener surfaces may include any combination of one or more of Velcro, MOLLE, PAL webbing, hooks, buttons, clips, pins, magnets, slide release buckles, or other fasteners. External fasteners provide significant functionality to a user who wishes to keep priority items immediately accessible without opening the entire bag. In some embodiments, all of the exterior surfaces of the various panels include fasteners and/or fastener surfaces, thus allowing a user a high degree of freedom to customize what items will be secured or affixed to the exterior of the bag.

In some embodiments, only the top panel 102 and the front panel 104 include fastener surfaces. Specifically, the top panel 102 and the front panel 104 include Velcro loop surfaces so that any item with a Velcro hook surface can be fastened to the exterior of the bag. Items that may be fastened to the exterior include, for example, pouches for carrying documents, weatherproof containers, identification plates and/or panels, or protective armor plates and/or containers. In some embodiments, one or more of the top panel 102, front panel 104, bottom panel 106, left side panel 108, and right side panel 110 include exterior surface fasteners, but the back panel 200 does not. The various exterior surfaces of the panels may be constructed of woven fabric (e.g., canvas), rubber, nylon, and/or any other suitable durable materials.

FIG. 2 illustrates a back view of an embodiment of an improved modular bag 100 including shoulder straps 202, 204 and a main zipper 220. In the illustrated embodiment, an improved modular bag 100 comprises a first shoulder strap 202 and a second shoulder strap 204 secured to the back panel 200 to enable a wearer to wear the bag over his or her shoulders. First shoulder strap 202 and second shoulder strap 204 comprise first detachable buckle 206 and second detachable buckle 208 respectively. First and second detachable buckles 206, 208 may be slide release buckles that enable a user to remove the first and second shoulder straps 202, 204 entirely or remove just the top or bottom end of one or more of the straps.

The first and second shoulder straps 202, 204 may be unbuckled on top ends and secured to different locations of the bag, allowing for a plurality of carrying configurations. For example, the bag is configurable with only a single shoulder strap. A user may choose to unbuckle both the first shoulder strap 202 and the second shoulder strap 204 from the first detachable buckle 206 and the second detachable buckle 208 respectively. A user can then buckle first shoulder strap 202 into second detachable buckle 208, enabling the user to carry the improved modular bag 100 in a sling or purse-type configuration over one shoulder and/or across the chest of the wearer. In embodiments including one or more shoulder straps, the back panel 200 may also be configured with extra padding and/or breathable material for the comfort of a wearer.

Also illustrated in FIG. 2 is a main zipper 220 with a first zipper slider 210 and a second zipper slider 212, which can be positioned along any portion of the main zipper 220. In the embodiment shown, the main zipper 220 extends continuously along the bottom left edge 130, front left edge 126, top left edge 122, top back edge 120, top right edge 124, front right edge 128, and bottom right edge 132. A user can access an inner chamber 330 of the improved modular bag 100 by positioning the first and second zipper sliders 210, 212 at any edge and then pulling the zipper sliders 210, 212 in opposing directions along the main zipper 220. Additionally, first and second zipper sliders 210, 212 may be positioned adjacent to each other and in close proximity so as to completely close the bag, or they may be positioned such that the top back edge 120 is substantially opened with zipper sliders 210, 212 on either side of the top back edge 120 in preparation for a quick opening motion as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C.

In some embodiments, other securement methods or apparatuses may be used instead of the main zipper 220 extending continuously along one or more of the same edges. For example, two or more zippers may be used instead of a single continuous zipper, or a combination of securement two or more securement methods may be used along various edges. Other securement methods and/or apparatuses may include, but are not limited to, Velcro, buttons, snaps, pressure sensitive adhesives, magnets, and the like.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate various perspective views of an embodiment of an improved modular bag 100 that has been opened at various locations along a main zipper 220 to access an inner chamber 330 of the bag. First and second zipper sliders 210, 212 may be pre-positioned by a user such that top back edge 120 is substantially opened with zipper sliders 210, 212 on either side of the top back edge 120 (a “ready-to-open” configuration). Subsequently, top handle 160 may be pulled in a first direction 360 and back handle 150 in a second direction 350 so that a user may open the bag and expose the inner chamber 330 of the bag entirely without having to touch first and second zipper sliders 210, 212. The top and back handles 160, 150 may be pulled in first and second directions 360, 350 respectively until only a portion of the inner chamber 330 is exposed to a user, or until the first and second zipper sliders 210, 212 have been repositioned to opposing ends of the main zipper 220 to expose the entirety of the inner chamber 330.

One of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that while a user may elect to pull the top and back handles 160, 150 in first and second directions 360, 350 in midair, a user may likewise pull the top handle 160 in a first direction 360 while securing the back handle 150 in a fixed location. For example, a user may or may not rest the back panel 200 of the bag against a rigid surface and pull the top handle 160 in a first direction 360 while maintaining the position of the rest of the bag by holding down either the back handle 160 or another portion of the bag.

In the illustrated embodiment of the improved modular bag 100, a top flap 302 is connected at or near the interior of the top back edge 120 and at least partially along the interior of the left side panel 108 and the right side panel 110. When first and second zipper sliders 210, 212 are positioned close together such that the bag is in a substantially closed configuration, top flap 302 has a substantially flat shape and extends parallel to the top flap 102. When the first and second zipper sliders 210, 212 are positioned on opposite sides of the top panel 102 as shown in FIG. 3A, the top flap 302 serves to protect the contents of the bag from debris. Thus, the top flap 302 allows a user to maintain the zipper sliders 210, 212 in a ready-to-open configuration without exposing the bag's contents to debris or the elements. As the integrally connected top, front, and bottom panels 102, 104, 106 are pulled away from the rest of the bag, the top flap 302 will begin to rotate about the top back edge 120 such that when the bag is fully opened, the top flap 302 can lie flat and substantially parallel with the other panels as shown in FIG. 4.

The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3B-3C also comprises securement apparatuses 306 disposed on the interior surface 304 of the integrally connected panels 102, 104, 106. These securement apparatuses 306 enable a user to store and secure items within the bag, and provide a user easy access to said items upon opening the bag as shown. The securement apparatuses include, but are not limited to any combination of one or more of Velcro or other hook and loop fasteners, MOLLE, PAL straps, hooks, buttons, clips, pins, magnets, and/or other fasteners and fastener surfaces.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an improved modular bag 100 opened and laid flat into a planar configuration. More specifically, an interior back panel 412, interior left panel 408, interior right panel 410, interior surface 304, and a top flap 302 are illustrated lying in a substantially flat, planar configuration when the bag is fully opened. This fully opened and planar configuration is referred to hereinafter as a chassis 400. Securement apparatuses 306 may be disposed on the entire interior surface of the chassis 400. In one embodiment, Velcro surfaces may cover the entirety of the interior surfaces 408, 412, 410, 304 of the chassis 400 as well as the surfaces of the top flap 302. Such an embodiment allows a user nearly unlimited control over what items and/or modular bags may be stored in the bag and how they will be positioned. Specifically, modular bags with Velcro hooks can be attached to the Velcro surfaces covering the interior surfaces to enable a user to attach modular bags in any position, orientation, order, or pattern within the chassis 400. In addition, other containers, pouches, or securement devices with Velcro surfaces can be fastened anywhere on the interior surface.

In one embodiment, smaller versions of the improved modular bag as disclosed herein may have back panels with Velcro exterior surfaces, thus allowing a larger improved modular bag to securely contain one or more smaller improved modular bags within the inner chamber or chassis. In some embodiments, one or more interior surfaces are configured with securement apparatuses 306. In some embodiments, between 5-100% of the interior surfaces of the chassis 400 are configured with securement apparatuses. In some embodiments, at least two different types of securement apparatuses are configured on one or more of the interior surfaces. For example, an interior surface or combination of interior surfaces may include both MOLLE loops and Velcro surfaces so that both modular secondary bags with Velcro and other items that fit within loops may be stored. Thus, many objects of varying size, shape, and utility may be stored within the securement apparatuses of the bag whether the bag is in a closed or open chassis configuration. These objects may include, but are not limited to, different kinds of ammunition, weapons, tools, school supplies, wilderness survival items, toys, childcare items, fishing items, and/or any other items that may be secured to the interior panel surfaces. Advantageously, the different objects are accessible from different panels without having to open the bag entirely (unless desired), as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6A-6B by opening particular panels without fully opening the entire chassis 400.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an improved modular bag 100 with a left side panel 108 and a right side panel 110 opened. In the illustrated embodiment, the top panel 102 remains connected to the back panel. In one embodiment, the interior surface of the top panel 102 includes a Velcro strip which connects with a Velcro surface on the top flap 302. Without disconnecting the top panel 102 from the top flap 302, first and second zipper sliders 210, 212 may be repositioned to opposing ends of the main zipper 220 such that side panels 108, 110 are opened and lie flat in a planar configuration with the back panel 200. In such a configuration, interior left side panel 408 and interior right side panel 410 are exposed, along with objects secured to the interior surfaces by means of securement apparatuses. Additionally, a user may readily access objects secured within the inner chamber of the bag between side panels 108, 110.

Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, individual panels may be opened separately to allow a user access to just one or more portions of the interior chamber or to one or more interior surfaces. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A, a main zipper track is opened just enough to open the top back edge 120. In this configuration, the top panel 102 and top flap 302 can be opened enough to allow access to the interior chamber 330, a portion of the interior surface 304 on the opposite side of the top panel 102, and the interior surface of the top flap 302. Likewise, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6B, a main zipper track is opened just enough to open a left side panel 108 completely, thereby allowing access to the interior chamber 330, and interior left side panel 408. An interior pouch 610 is also shown secured to the interior left side panel 408 demonstrating that a user may store particular items in smaller containers or pouches secured to the interior surface of the chassis 400 by means of securement apparatuses. A user may choose to access the contents of the interior pouch 610, reposition it, or to remove it from the interior left side panel 408 entirely and then close the main zipper 220. It will be readily understood that the right side panel 110 may likewise be opened individually and that all features described heretofore with regards to the left side panel 108 are equally applicable to the right side panel 110.

The improved modular bag 100 may be opened midair, while resting on a flat surface, or while on a user's back. For instance, a first user may wear the bag over his/her shoulders using the first and second shoulder straps 202, 204 in a ready-to-open configuration, and a second user may pull the bag open as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C while the first user wears the bag. The advantages of including securement apparatuses on the interior surfaces of the chassis become readily apparent when considering such a configuration, which would otherwise cause objects and containers stored in the bag to fall out. Similarly, one or more panels may be opened without completely opening the bag as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6A-6B while a first user wears the bag. Thus, the advantages described herein apply equally to a second user who accesses the bag while a first user wears it and to a single user who both wears and accesses the bag.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a second embodiment of the improved modular bag 700 with panels and edges labeled. The improved modular bag 700 is a generally rectangular cube with top panel 702, a first front panel 750, a second front panel 770, a bottom panel 706, a left side panel 708, a right side panel 710, and a back panel 712. The various panels are joined along edges to enclose an inner chamber of the bag. Specifically, the top panel 702 is joined with the back panel 712 along top back edge 720, with the left side panel 708 along top left edge 722, with the right side panel 710 along top right edge 724, and with the first front panel 750 along top front edge 746. The left side panel 708 is also joined with the back panel 712 along back left edge 734, with the first front panel 750 along at least a portion of front left edge 726, with second front panel 770 along at least a portion of front left edge 726, and with the bottom panel 706 along bottom left edge 730. The right side panel 710 is also joined with the back panel 712 along back right edge 736, with the first front panel 750 along at least a portion of front right edge 728, with second front panel 770 along at least a portion of front right edge 728, and with bottom panel 706 along bottom right edge 732. The bottom panel is also joined with the second front panel 770 along front bottom edge 744.

The various edges may join the various panels by means of zippers, Velcro, sewn seams and/or any other fasteners. In the illustrated embodiment, bottom left edge 730 and the portion of front left edge 726 along the left side of the second front panel 770 form a bottom left zipper. The bottom right edge 732 and the portion of the front right edge 728 along the right side of the second front panel 770 form a bottom right zipper. The top left edge 722 and the portion of the front left edge 726 along the left side of the first front panel 750 form a top left zipper. The top right edge 724 and the portion of the front right edge 728 along the right side of the first front panel 750 form a top right zipper. The top back edge 720, the back left edge 734, the back right edge 736, and the bottom back edge 718 may comprise sewn seams to connect the various panels together.

The various panels may also be joined by a single piece of continuous material that also makes up two or more panels. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, top panel 702 and first front panel 750 are integrally connected and made of a single continuous piece of material such that the top front edge 746 is not formed by zippers, Velcro, or sewn seams. Likewise, bottom panel 706 and second front panel 770 are integrally connected and made of a single continuous piece of material such that the bottom front edge 744 is not formed by zippers, Velcro, or sewn seams. Thus, a first flap comprising the top panel 702 and the first front panel 750 and a second flap comprising the bottom panel and the 706 and the second front panel 770 are formed which can close independently of one another to allow a user access to different portions of the inner chamber contained by the panels.

The first flap overlaps a portion of the second flap. Specifically, when the bag is fully closed, the portion of the first front panel 750 furthest from the top front edge 746 overlaps the portion of the second front panel 770 furthest from the front bottom edge 744. The first front panel 750 includes a first handle 760 positioned at or near the overlapping portion of the first front panel 750 so that a user may open the first flap by pulling the first handle 760 as shown in FIG. 8A, thus separating the joined edges along the top left zipper and the top right zipper. The first front panel 750 may include a fastener such as a snap or Velcro on an interior surface of the overlapping portion so that the first flap can be fastened to a fastener on an exterior surface of the overlapped portion of the second flap even when the top left, top right, bottom left, and bottom right zippers are opened. The second flap may likewise include a handle or gripping flap at or near the overlapped portion of the second front panel so that a user may open the second flap by pulling on said handle or gripping flap, thus separating the joined edges along the bottom left zipper and the bottom right zipper as shown in FIG. 8B.

A person of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that additional embodiments including variations of the elements and features of the illustrated embodiment are possible. For example, in certain embodiments Velcro strips may be used in place of the top left, top right, bottom left, and bottom right zippers to reduce the likelihood of zipper sliders catching on items contained within the bag or the bag itself. In certain embodiments, the various panels may include exterior pockets or compartments with closure means as previously described for the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, the first front panel and/or the second front panel may include vertical or horizontal zippers that provide a user access to compartments within the panels. The exterior compartments may or may not be in communication with an inner chamber of the bag.

In some embodiments, various panels are integrally connected and made of a single continuous piece of material or are joined by sewn seams in a manner not illustrated. For example, left and right side panels 708, 710 and back panel 712 may be integrally connected and made of a single continuous piece of material. The back left and back right edges 734, 736 may not comprise zippers, Velcro, sewn seams and/or any other fasteners that join separate pieces of material together, but may instead comprise creases in the single continuous piece of material to contribute to the overall shape of the bag while maximizing overall strength and durability of the bag. In some embodiments various panels are integrally connected along various edges in the manner just described. In some embodiments, the top front edge 746 and the bottom front edge 744 may comprise sewn seams instead of being made of a single piece of continuous material.

In some embodiments, the improved modular bag 700 includes shoulder straps configured like the shoulder straps illustrated in FIG. 2. These shoulder straps enable a wearer to wear the bag over his or her shoulders and to detach one or both of the shoulder straps or even reconfigure the shoulder straps to enable a single sling or purse-type configuration. The shoulder straps included in this and other embodiments will be understood to include all features and variations described previously. In embodiments including one or more shoulder straps, the back panel 712 may also be configured with extra padding and/or breathable material for the comfort of a wearer.

In the illustrated embodiment, the improved modular bag includes one or more side handles 714 integrally connected to one or both of the left side panel 708 and the right side panel 710. The one or more side handles 714 may be positioned substantially in the center of the left side panel 708 and/or right side panel 710, or offset from the center of said panels. In one embodiment, the one or more side handles 714 are positioned aligned with a center of gravity of the bag enabling a user to lift, carry, or otherwise handle the bag by means of the one or more side handles 714 with a minimal degree of readjustment to balance the weight of the bag. The one or more side handles 714 may be small to reduce the likelihood of getting caught in features of a user's environment and to promote handle rigidity. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more side handles 714 are long enough that a user can comfortably grip both handles with a single hand when the bag is filled to its maximum capacity.

In some embodiments, the improved modular bag 700 may comprise one or more side handles 714 which diagonally traverses the left and/or side panels 708, 710 to provide a diagonal handle to hold the bag. Similarly, in some embodiments, the one or more side handles 714 may be configured substantially as shown in the illustrated embodiment, and fasteners, loops, and/or hooks may be connected to the left and/or right side panels 708, 710 near the one or more side handles 714 so that said side handles 714 can be repositioned as diagonal handles. In some similar embodiments, the one or more side handles 714 may be positioned closer to the front right edges 728 and/or the front left edge 726 with fasteners, loops, and/or hooks disposed on the left and/or right side panels 708, 710 near both attachment points of the one or more side handles 714 to enable a user to reposition them to be more aligned with the center of gravity of the bag. Thus, a user may be given substantial freedom to choose and adjust the position, orientation, or configuration of the one or more side handles 714 to optimally suit their needs.

FIG. 8A illustrates a first flap comprising the top panel 702 and the first front panel 750 being opened to reveal at least a portion of the inner chamber 830 of the improved modular bag 700. The first handle 760 is pulled in a first direction 860 away from the bag in such a manner that the closure means along both sides of the first flap are separated, allowing the interior surface of the first flap 804 to lie substantially flat and coplanar with the back panel 712. FIG. 8B illustrates a second flap comprising the bottom panel 706 and the second front panel 770 being opened to reveal the remainder of the inner chamber 830 once the first flap has been opened.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second front panel 770 of the second flap includes a gripping flap 880 which a user can pull in a second direction 882 away from the bag in such a manner that the closure means along both sides of the second flap are separated, allowing the interior surface of the second flap 870 to lie substantially flat and coplanar with the back panel 712. In some embodiments, the second front panel 770 of the second flap may include a handle, hook, strap, or other means of pulling the second flap open. The gripping flap 880 has the dual purpose of providing a user with a grip sufficient to pull the second flap open and at least partially separating contents that may be stored in the inner chamber 830 under the first or second flaps.

FIG. 9 illustrates a chassis 900 of an embodiment of the improved modular bag having first and second front panels. The chassis 900 includes the interior surface of the first flap 804, the interior surface of the second flap 870, the interior surface of the left side panel 908, the interior surface of the right side panel 910, and the interior surface of the back panel 902 in a substantially flat, coplanar configuration. Such a configuration allows a user full visual and physical access to all contents stored within the bag.

Securement apparatuses such as those illustrated in FIG. 4 may be disposed on the entire interior surface of the chassis 900. In one embodiment, Velcro surfaces may cover the entirety of the interior surfaces, 804, 870, 902, 908, 910 of the chassis 900. Such an embodiment allows a user nearly unlimited control over what items and/or modular bags may be stored in the bag and how they will be positioned. Specifically, modular bags with Velcro hooks can be attached to the Velcro surfaces covering the interior surfaces to enable a user to attach modular bags in any position, orientation, order, or pattern within the chassis 900. In some embodiments, one or more interior surfaces are configured with securement apparatuses. In some embodiments, between 5-100% of the interior surfaces of the chassis 900 are configured with securement apparatuses.

In some embodiments, at least two different types of securement apparatuses are configured on one or more of the interior surfaces. For example, an interior surface or combination of interior surfaces may include both MOLLE loops and Velcro surfaces so that both modular secondary bags with Velcro and other items that fit within loops may be stored. Thus, many objects of varying size, shape, and utility may be stored within the securement apparatuses of the bag whether the bag is in a closed or open chassis configuration. These objects may include, but are not limited to, different kinds of ammunition, weapons, tools, school supplies, wilderness survival items, toys, childcare items, fishing items, and/or any other items that may be secured to the interior panel surfaces.

Advantageously, the different objects are accessible from different panels without having to open the bag entirely (unless desired), similar to the manner shown in FIGS. 5 and 6A-6B by opening particular panels without fully opening the entire chassis 900. For example, closure means along the top right edge 724, front right edge 728, and bottom right edge 732 may be opened so that a user may open the entire right side panel 710. Alternatively, a single zipper can be partially or fully opened along the right side of the first flap or the right side of the second flap to quickly access just a portion of the inner chamber from the right side panel 710. The features described for the right side panel 710 may apply equally to the left side panel 708, thus allowing a user equal access through either side panel to the inner chamber 830 or to items stored on the interior surface of part or all of the left side panel 708. In addition, the first flap or the second flap may be opened independently to allow a user access to different portions of the inner chamber.

FIG. 10 illustrates an open chassis 1000 with a folded first flap 1010. As previously described, the interior surface of the first flap 804 may include Velcro loop surfaces. A portion of the interior surface of the first flap 804 near the first handle 760 may include a Velcro hook surface which can attach to the Velcro loop surfaces. Thus, the first flap may be folded onto itself and remain in a flattened configuration. This configuration enables a wearer to wear the bag over his/her shoulders using one or more shoulder straps while the bag is at least partially opened without having an unwieldy first flap. Instead, the folded first flap can help the bag keep shape while being worn and add protection to the back of a user's head. A folded first flap 1010 also enables a wearer to keep the bag substantially closed with only the first flap partially opened, so that the wearer can quickly remove the bag and access priority items stored or fastened near the top of the bag, or so that another user can quickly do the same. The interior surface of the second flap 870 may likewise include Velcro surfaces as described for the interior surface of the first flap 804 so that the second flap 870 may be folded onto itself. A folded second flap would provide additional comfort to a wearer and additional rigidity to the bag if being worn in an open configuration.

Claims

1. A carrying device comprising: a front panel;a back panel;a left side panel;a right side panel;a top panel;a bottom panel, wherein the top panel, front panel, and bottom panel are integrally connected; anda main zipper configured, when closed, to secure the panels together to form a generally rectangular cube with an interior chamber and which, when opened, configures the carrying device into a substantially flat open chassis composed out of the front panel, the back panel, the left side panel, the right side panel, the top panel, and the bottom panel.

2. The carrying device of claim 1, wherein at least two of the panels comprise fasteners on interior surfaces of the panels.

3. The carrying device of claim 1, wherein at least four of the panels comprise fasteners on interior surfaces of the panels.

4. The carrying device of claim 1, further comprising a first side handle connected to the right side panel.

5. The carrying device of claim 4, further comprising a second side handle connected to the left side panel.

6. The carrying device of claim 5, further comprising a top handle connected to the top panel and a back handle connected to the back panel, the top handle and the back handle being positioned substantially adjacent when the main zipper is in a closed configuration.

7. A carrying device comprising: first and second front panels;a back panel;a left side panel;a right side panel;a top panel;a bottom panel, wherein the first front panel is integrally connected to the top panel, wherein the second front panel is integrally connected to the bottom panel, and wherein the first front panel and the second front panel overlap when in a closed configuration; andone or more closure means configured, when closed, to secure the panels together to form a generally rectangular cube with an interior chamber, the first front panel and the second front panel being overlapped, and wherein the one or more closure means, when opened, configure the carrying device into a substantially flat open chassis composed out of the first and second front panels, the back panel, the left side panel, the right side panel, the top panel, and the bottom panel.

8. The carrying device of claim 7, further comprising one or more shoulder straps with detachable fasteners.

9. The carrying device of claim 7, wherein at least four of the panels comprise fasteners on interior surfaces of the panels.

10. The carrying device of claim 7, wherein the one or more closure means comprises a left side zipper with two zipper sliders extending along three edges of the left side panel.

11. The carrying device of claim 10, wherein the one or more closure means further comprises a right side zipper with two zipper sliders extending along three edges of the right side panel.

12. The carrying device of claim 11, wherein the one or more closure means further comprises a first hook or loop strip on an interior surface of the first front panel, and a second hook or loop strip configured to detachably connect with the first hook or loop strip that is located on an exterior surface of the second front panel.

13. The carrying device of claim 7, further comprising one or more side handles connected to at least one of the left side panel and the right side panel.

14. The carrying device of claim 7, further comprising a front handle disposed along an edge of the first front panel that overlaps the second front panel when the one or more closure means are closed.

15. The carrying device of claim 7, wherein the first front panel further comprises two fastener surfaces that are configured to be detachably attached to one another.

16. A carrying device comprising: one or more front panels;a back panel;a left side panel;a right side panel;a top panel;a bottom panel, wherein at least one of the one or more front panels is integrally connected to the bottom panel; andone or more closure means configured, when closed, to secure the panels together to form a generally rectangular cube with an interior chamber and which, when opened, configure the carrying device into a substantially flat open chassis composed out of the one or more front panels, the back panel, the left side panel, the right side panel, the top panel, and the bottom panel.

17. The carrying device of claim 16, wherein at least one of the one or more front panels and the top panel are integrally connected.

18. The carrying device of claim 16, wherein at least four of the panels comprise fasteners on interior surfaces of the panels.

19. The carrying device of claim 16, wherein the fasteners comprise at least one or more MOLLE loops and one or more hook and loop surfaces.