Multi-Functional Seat Cushion Carrying Assembly

Abstract

A multi-functional seat cushion carrying assembly includes a carrying assembly body comprising first and second carrying assembly compartments. Each compartment has opposite upper and lower flexible sidewalls that define an interior of the compartment. Each compartment has at least one opening for accessing the interior of said compartment. The compartments are joined together along an inner edge by a flexible hinge portion so that the compartments are movable about the hinge portion between folded and unfolded positions wherein the at least one of the upper and lower sidewalls of each compartments is positioned so that said at least one of the upper and lower sidewalls faces the corresponding at least one of the upper and lower sidewalls of the other compartment when in the folded position. At least one of the first and second compartments is configured to receive a seat cushion within the interior of said at least one of the first and second compartments. A carrying strap is further coupled to the carrying assembly body to facilitate carrying of the carrying assembly body.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a multi-functional seat cushion carrying assembly.

BACKGROUND

Seating at sports, entertainment or other events where one may be a spectator usually consists of bench-type or other rigid seating that soon become uncomfortable after sitting for prolonged periods. For this reason, many people bring their own seat cushions to such events to be used on the provided seating so that they are more comfortable. Additionally, many spectator events are conducted outdoors where they may be exposed to a wide variety of weather conditions. During the cooler months, the spectator at such outdoor events may be exposed to uncomfortably cool temperatures where a blanket or additional covering may be desired to keep warm. Likewise, even when events are conducted indoors, the air temperature may be kept at an uncomfortably low temperature for some such that a blanket or other covering would be desirable. It is therefore not uncommon for spectators to bring a blanket or covering to keep warm or protected during such events. Moreover, one may want to carry a wide variety of items into such venues. These may include phones or mobile devices, towels, binoculars, food and drink, towels, raingear, jackets, keys, hats, sunglasses, books or reading/writing materials, wallets or pocketbooks, etc.

The problem therefore arises how to carry these items. It is very difficult to carry such items without some type of bag or pack, particularly when one may have other items one wants to carry into the venue. In many cases, there is a need for security prior to entering a stadium or venue. Due to these security concerns, bags must often be emptied and/or checked before one is allowed into the stadium or spectator area. Where there are a large number of attendees, such bags may not be allowed at all due to the time it would take for security personnel to inspect these items. For this reason, some venues only allow bags that are transparent so that any contained items are not concealed and the security personnel can readily and quickly inspect the contents of the bag without having to remove any items.

The present invention provides a multi-functional seat cushion carrying assembly that addresses those issues and concerns discussed above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the disclosure, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a carrying assembly constructed in accordance with particular embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2 is front perspective view of the carrying assembly of FIG. 1, shown with compartments of the carrying assembly closed and a seat cushion and blanket of the carrying assembly removed and exploded away from the carrying assembly;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the carrying assembly of FIG. 1, with the seat cushion and blanket removed;

FIG. 4 is front perspective view of the carrying assembly of FIG. 2, shown with compartments of the carrying assembly open and the seat cushion and blanket of the carrying assembly removed and exploded away from the carrying assembly;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the carrying assembly of FIG. 1, shown with the carrying assembly in one folded configuration during one mode of use;

FIG. 6 is front perspective view of the carrying assembly of FIG. 1, shown with the carrying assembly in another folded configuration during another mode of use;

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a user with the carrying assembly of FIG. 1, showing use of the carrying assembly, seat cushion, and blanket in a particular mode of use; and

FIG. 8 is front perspective of the carrying assembly of FIG. 1 shown being used to carry various items in still another mode of use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed to a multi-functional seat cushion carrying assembly. Referring to FIG. 1 a multi-functional seat cushion carrying assembly 10 constructed in accordance with various embodiments of the invention is shown. The assembly 10 includes first and second carrying assembly compartments 12, 14.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each compartment 12, 14 has opposite upper and lower sidewalls 16, 18, respectively. The sidewalls 16, 18 are formed from thin, flexible panels of sheet material. This may include fabric or polymeric sheet material, or other materials suitable for forming the compartments as described herein. In particular embodiments, all or a portion of the sidewalls 16, 18 are formed from polymeric materials, such as vinyl, polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyolefin, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamine, polycarbonate, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene, polyester, polyamide, etc. The sheet materials of the compartments 12, 14 may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, or 19 to 20-gauge polymeric sheet materials. In many embodiments, the sheet material will be from 16 to 20-gauge sheet materials. The materials of the compartments 12, 14 and/or sidewalls 16, 8 may be waterproof or water resistant to prevent or resist the passage of water or other liquids through the sidewall material to facilitate keeping the interior of the compartments 12, 14 and their contents dry. Each of the sidewalls 16, 18 may be formed from the same or different materials. Thus, for example, one or both the sidewalls 16 may be formed from a fabric material, while one or both of the sidewalls 18 may be formed from polymeric materials, or vice versa.

It should be noted in the description, if a numerical value, concentration or range is presented, each numerical value should be read once as modified by the term “about” (unless already expressly so modified), and then read again as not so modified unless otherwise indicated in context. Also, in the description, it should be understood that an amount range listed or described as being useful, suitable, or the like, is intended that any and every value within the range, including the end points, is to be considered as having been stated. For example, “a range of from 1 to 10” is to be read as indicating each and every possible number along the continuum between about 1 and about 10. Thus, even if specific points within the range, or even no point within the range, are explicitly identified or referred to, it is to be understood that the inventor appreciates and understands that any and all points within the range are to be considered to have been specified, and that inventor possesses the entire range and all points within the range.

All or a portion of the sidewall materials may be clear or transparent so that the interior of each compartment is visible through the transparent material of the sidewalls 16, 18. The sidewalls 16, 18 may be non-colored or tinted with a particular color without inhibiting the transparency of the material. In other embodiments, all or a portion of the sidewall materials are opaque or non-transparent. In still other embodiments, all or portion of the sidewall materials are translucent. In certain instances, the sidewalls 16, 18 can be printed or provided with labels, logos, or other indicia. These may be logos or indicia related to various schools, sports teams, organizations, activities, etc.

To form the compartments 12, 14, the sidewalls 16, 18 of each compartment are coupled together along opposite outer side edges 20, 22 and outer end edges 24 of each compartment 12, 14. In particular embodiments, a separate binding material 26 may be used to join the side edges 20, 22 and end edges 24. The binding material 26 may be durable fabric material that reinforces the material of the sidewalls 16, 18 to prevent damage or tearing of the sidewall material and/or provides a seal between the sidewall and end edges. The binding material 26 may extend around all or a portion of the outer sidewall and end edge perimeter.

In certain applications, the binding material 26 may be a cloth, fabric or woven material, which may be a natural material (e.g., cotton) or a polymeric material, such as polyester, polyolefin, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, etc., or combinations or blends of such materials. The side edges of the sidewall panels 16, 18 may be joined together, with or without the binding material 26, through various fastening means. These may include adhesives (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.), stitching, weaving, welding, heat welding, rivets, staples, mechanical fasteners, or other fastening methods or combinations of these. A waterproof or water-resistant thread, such as nylon thread, may be used to stitch or join the side edges and/or binding material together. In many instances, the fastening means will provide a watertight or water-resistant seal that prevents liquids or moisture from passing through seam formed by the joined side edges of the sidewalls 16, 18. The binding material 26 and any stitching may be a waterproof or water-resistant or may be treated to be waterproof or water resistant. A sealant that is applied over the binding material 26 and side and end edges 20, 22, 24 of the sidewalls 16, 18 may also be used.

In certain embodiments, the side and end edges 20, 22, 24 of the panels 16, 18 may be gusseted or joined together by a side panel (not shown) that extends around the perimeter of each upper and lower sidewall 16, 18 to join the edges of the sidewalls 16, 18 together. This may be a similar or different material (e.g., fabric) from that of the sidewalls 16, 18. In other embodiments, no such gusseting or side panel is used.

A central panel or midsection of material 28 may be used to couple together the lower sidewalls 18 and/or upper sidewalls 16 of each compartment 12, 14. The panel 28 may be the same or a different material from that of the sidewalls 16, 18. In the embodiment shown, all or portion of the panel 28 is formed from a polymeric sheet material 30 (FIG. 2), which may be the same or similar to that used for the sidewalls 16, 18, with one or more lengths of fabric material or webbing 32 (FIG. 3), which may be the same or different materials described for the binding material 26. The binding material 26 may also join, touch, overlap or extend across the material of the central panel 28, such as along the side edges of the central panel 28.

The central panel 28 may extend transversely across all or a portion of the width of the compartments 12, 14 and/or lower or upper sidewalls 16, 18 along a transverse axis 34 of the carrying assembly 10. The inner edge 36 of each sidewall 16, 18 of the first and second compartments 12, 14 is coupled to the central panel 28 along all or a portion of its length.

In certain instances, the lower sidewall 18 of the compartments 12, 14 may be formed by a single continuous length of sheet material with opposite end portions of the sheet material forming the lower sidewalls 18 for each compartment 12, 14. The central portion of the continuous length of sheet material may thus form all or a portion of the central panel 28, such as the sheet material 30 (FIG. 2), with the lower sidewall 18 of each compartment merely being a continuation of the sheet material with no visible line of demarcation of where the inner edges of each lower sidewall 18 join the central panel 28 being visible. The backing material 32 (FIG. 3) may be coupled to this sheet material through various fastening means (e.g., stitching, adhesive, welding, etc.) to reinforce the sheet material, as well as facilitate coupling to other materials, such the binding material 26. This may also facilitate coupling to carrying straps, as will be described later on.

The central panel 28 may have a width of from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 1 inch, 2, inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, and 12 inches. In many embodiments, the central panel 28 has a width of from 4 inches to 10 inches. With respect to the central panel 28, the width is the dimension extending transversely across the central panel (perpendicular to the axis 34) from each inner side edge 36 of the lower sidewall 18 of each compartment 12, 14. The central panel 28 forms a flexible hinge portion 38 of the carrying assembly 10. The compartments 12, 14 are movable about the transverse axis 34 that generally bisects and extends transversely across the width of the carrying assembly 10 when it is in a fully unfolded configuration or generally flat configuration, as shown in FIGS. 1-4. The axis 34 extends longitudinally along the length of the hinge portion 38.

The hinge portion 38 allows the carrying assembly 10 to be folded about the axis 34 to different folded positions or configurations for different modes of use. In one folded configuration, the upper sidewall 16 of each compartment 12, 14 faces the upper sidewall 16 of the other compartment 12, 14, as shown in FIG. 5, with the upper sidewalls 16 being in a touching, near-touching (i.e., 1 inch, 0.5 inch or less) or adjacent position or relationship. In another folded position, the lower sidewall 18 of each compartment 12, 14 faces the lower sidewall 18 of the other compartment 12, 14, as shown in FIG. 6, with the lower sidewalls 18 being in a touching, near-touching (i.e., 1 inch, 0.5 inch or less) or adjacent position or relationship. The width of the central panel 28 or hinge portion 38 must be of a sufficient length so that the carrying assembly 10 can be folded as described herein with respect to the different modes of use of the carrying assembly 10.

As shown in FIG. 4, each of the compartments 12, 14 has one or more openings 40, 42, respectively, for allowing access to the interior of each compartment 12, 14. The openings 40, 42 are shown being located at or near the inner edge 36 of each compartment 12, 14 at, near or adjacent to the hinge portion 38. In other embodiments, the openings 40, 42 or additional openings (not shown) may be located along the side edges 20, 22 or end edges 24 of each compartment 12, 14, or at other portions of the compartments 12, 14, such as formed in the sidewalls 16, 18 themselves.

The openings 40, 42 may be formed by leaving all or a portion of the upper sidewall 16 free so that it is not joined or coupled to the lower sidewall 18, such as through the fastening methods previously mentioned. In still other instances, the openings 40, 42 may be formed by forming a slit or cutout in the material forming the upper sidewall 16 that extends across all or a portion of the width of the upper sidewall 16. In an alternate construction, the openings 40, 42 may be formed in the lower sidewall 18.

In one particular example of construction for the carrying assembly 10, one or both the upper sidewalls 16 and/or lower sidewalls 18 of the compartments 12, 14 may be formed by a single continuous length of flexible sheet material with opposite end portions of the sheet material forming one or both of the upper and lower sidewalls 16, 18 for each compartment 12, 14. In one such construction, the lower sidewalls 18 are formed by a single continuous layer of sheet material, while each of the upper sidewalls 16 are formed from two separate panels of sheet material that are joined along the side edges 20, 22, and end edges 24. The two panels forming the upper sidewalls 16 may terminate at the inner edge 36 and be free or uncoupled from the sheet material of the lower sidewalls 18 to form the openings 40, 42. The single layer of sheet material of the lower sidewalls 18 that extends between the inner edge 36 of the upper sidewall material thus forms all or a portion of the central portion 28, such as the polymeric sheet material 30, as discussed previously.

Alternatively, two layers of continuous sheet material, each forming the sidewalls 16, 18, may be joined or coupled along the side edges 20, 22 and end edges 24 around the entire perimeter, as well as along the central portion of the continuous length of sheet materials to form all or a portion of the central panel 28, such as the polymeric sheet material 30. In such instances, the openings 40, 42 would be formed by cutting a slit or cutout in the sheet material forming either the upper or lower sidewalls 16, 18.

In a similar, but alternative construction, both the upper sidewall 16 and lower sidewall 18 of the compartments 12, 14 may be formed by a single continuous length of flexible sheet material that is folded either lengthwise or widthwise so that the folded portions form both the upper and lower sidewalls 16, 18. In this way, the fold of the flexible sheet material facilitates coupling the upper and lower sidewalls 16, 18 together along either a side edge 20, 22 or an end edge 24, depending on how the sheet material is folded. The uncoupled side edges 20, 22 and end edges 24 of the continuous length of sheet material may be joined or coupled along the side edges around the entire perimeter, as well as along the central portion of the continuous length of sheet materials to form all or a portion of the central panel 28, in a manner such as has been previously described. In such instances, the openings 40, 42 would be formed by cutting a slit or cutout in the sheet material forming the upper or lower sidewalls 16, 18, as well.

The openings 40, 42 of the compartments may be provided with a binding or reinforcement material, such as the binding material 26 used along the side edges, to prevent damage or tearing of the sidewall material at the opening. The openings 40, 42 may further be provided with releasable closing or fastening means to selectively open and close the openings 40, 42. Additional materials may be used to provide such closing or fastening means, such as an additional layer or layers of sheet material or other materials and components. This may be in the form of releasable fasteners, such as zippers, hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), snaps, buttons, rib and groove fasteners (e.g., Ziploc®), etc. The fasteners 44, 46 are provided for each of the openings 40, 42, respectively, to allow selectively opening and closing of the openings 40, 42.

In the embodiment shown, the fasteners 44, 46 are zipper assemblies. The fabric or tape material of the zipper assemblies 44, 46, and any backing or additional securing materials used to couple the zipper assemblies 44, 46 to the openings 40, 42 also facilitates reinforcement of the side edges of the openings 40, 42. Such tape or fabric may be a cloth or fabric material, which may be a natural fabric (e.g., cotton) or a polymeric fabric, such as polyester, polypropylene, nylon, etc., or combinations or blends of such materials. The tape or fabric material of the zippers 44, 46 may be secured to the side edges of the openings 40, 42 such as through gluing, epoxy, stitching, welding, heat welding, or other fastening methods or combinations of these. A waterproof or water-resistant thread, such as nylon thread, may be used to stitch or join the tape or zipper fabric material to the side edges. The teeth of the zipper may be plastic or metal. Sealing materials or coatings may also be used to seal any moisture permeable materials of the zipper assemblies 44, 46.

The compartments 12, 14, as described above, may each have a length of from 10 inches to 24 inches and a width of from 14 inches to 30 inches. As defined herein, the length is that dimension of the compartments 12, 14 extending perpendicular to the transverse axis 34 from the end edge 24 to the inner edge 36. The width is that dimension of the compartments 12, 14 parallel to the transverse axis 34 extending from the opposite side edges 20, 22. The length of each compartment may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 10 inches, 12, inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, and 24 inches. In many embodiments the length of each compartment may range from 10 inches to 16 inches. The width of each compartment may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches, 28 inches, 29 inches, 30 inches. In many embodiments, the width may range from 14 inches to 22 inches. The length may be constant or variable along the width of each compartment 12, 14. Likewise, the width may be constant or variable along the length of each compartment 12, 14. In most embodiments, the length and width will be the same across the entire width and length, respectively. Each compartment 12, 14 may have the same or different dimensions with respect to the other.

One or more flexible carrying straps 48, 50, 52 are provided with the carrying assembly 10. The carrying straps 48, 50, 52 may be in the form of one or more lengths of flexible, flat webbing material having a width or transverse dimension of from ½ inch to 3 inches. The material of the straps 48, 50, 52 may be similar to the binding material 26, previously discussed, and may be a cloth, fabric or woven material, which may be a natural material (e.g., cotton) or a polymeric material, such as polyester, polypropylene, nylon, etc., or combinations or blends of such materials. Other materials may be used for the carrying straps 48, 50, 52, however, such as lengths of flexible chains, cables, ropes, cords, etc., of the same or different materials that provide the functionality as described herein. In certain embodiments, the carrying straps 48, 50, 52 may be provided with a padding material, such as used on backpacks and the like.

The carrying straps 48, 50, 52 are coupled to the carrying assembly body 54. In the embodiment shown, the ends of the carrying straps 48, 50 are coupled to the compartments 12, 14 along the end edges 24. The ends of each carrying strap 48, 50 are spaced apart from one another along the length of the end edge 24. The ends of the carrying straps 48, 50 can be coupled at any point along the end edge 24 of the compartments 12, 14. In the embodiment shown, the opposite ends of the carrying straps 48, 50 are coupled at the opposite spaced apart corners 56, 58 of the compartments 12, 14, where the side edges 20, 22 meet the end edges 24.

The carrying straps 48, 50 may be coupled at each end to the compartments 12, 14 by various means, which may be releasable or non-releasable. This may include coupling the ends of the straps 48, 50 to the materials of the compartments 12, 14, such as the sheet material of the sidewalls 16, 18. Coupling of the carrying straps 48, 50 to the compartments 12, 14 may be achieved by adhesives (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.), stitching, weaving, lacing, welding, heat welding, rivets, staples, swivels, clips, key clips, hooks, snaps, bolt snaps, grommets, mechanical fasteners, or other fastening methods or combinations of these. In many embodiments, the carrying straps 48, 50 are coupled to the binding material 26 that reinforces the end edges 24 and side edges 20, 22. The ends of the straps 48, 50 may be coupled to the compartments 12, 14 through swivels or other devices that allow the straps 48, 50 to rotate at the ends so that the straps do not become overly twisted.

The carrying straps 48, 50 may have a length of from 8 inches to 36 inches. The length of each strap 48, 50 may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches, 28 inches, 29 inches, 30 inches, 31 inches, 32 inches, 33 inches, 34 inches, 35 inches, and 36 inches. Shorter lengths facilitate forming a handle of the carrying assembly so that the carrying straps 48, 50 may be grasped with one's hand. Longer lengths may facilitate use of the carrying straps 48, 50 as shoulder straps, which may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches, 28 inches, 29 inches, 30 inches, 31 inches, 32 inches, 33 inches, 34 inches, 35 inches, and 36 inches.

The carrying straps 48, 50 may be adjustable, such as through the use of buckles, strap adjusters or sliders, so that they may be lengthened or shortened to selected lengths, such as those lengths discussed above.

One or both of the carrying straps 48, 50 may have a handle or handle portion 60. The handle 60 may be a thickened or widened area or other handle device that is provided on the carrying straps 48, 50 to facilitate grasping the straps 48, 50 with one's hand. In some embodiments, the handle portion 60 is formed from the same or similar materials to those of the binding material 26. All or a portion of the handle 60 may be formed from a padding or cushioning material.

In particular embodiments, the handle portion 60 is configured as a wrap handle. The wrap handle 60 is formed from a layer of flexible fabric or other material 62, such those materials forming the binding 26. All or a portion of the wrap handle 60 may be formed from a padding or cushioning material. The wrap handle 60 is coupled to one of the carrying straps 48, 50, either permanently fixed in place (such as by stitching) or so that it can be selectively positioned at different positions along the length of the carrying strap to which it is coupled, such as by merely wrapping the handle around the carrying strap so that it forms a tube-like shape. In the embodiment shown, the ends of the layer of material 62 are provided with cooperating releasable fasteners, hook and loop fasteners 64, 66 (e.g., Velcro®), snaps, buttons, rib and groove fasteners (e.g., Ziploc®), etc., as shown in FIGS. 3-4 that engage and releasably couple to one another so that the material can be selectively wrapped and secured around one or both of the carrying straps 48, 50 to secure the carrying straps 48, 50 together by enclosing the straps 48, 50 within the material 62.

The carrying strap 52 constitutes a center carrying strap that is secured at each end along the central panel 28 or hinge portion 38. The carrying strap 52 may be coupled to the polymeric material 30 and/or webbing 32. This may be achieved by adhesives (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.), stitching, weaving, lacing, welding, heat welding, rivets, staples, swivels, clips, key clips, hooks, snaps, bolt snaps, grommets, mechanical fasteners, or other fastening methods or combinations of these. The ends of the strap 52 may be coupled to the central panel 28 or hinge portion 38 through swivels or other devices, as well, that allow the strap 52 to rotate at the ends so that the strap 52 does not become twisted. The strap 52 may have a handle portion (not shown) such as the handle portion 60 previously described.

In the embodiment shown, the carrying strap 52 is coupled along the outer side edges 68, 70 of the hinge portion 38, although the ends of the strap 52 may be coupled at other spaced apart areas along the central panel 28 or hinge portion 38. The ends of the carrying strap 52 may be coupled to the webbing material 32 or the binding material that covers the outer side edges 68, 70.

The carrying strap 52 may have a length of from 8 inches to 36 inches. The length of the strap 52 may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches, 28 inches, 29 inches, 30 inches, 31 inches, 32 inches, 33 inches, 34 inches, 35 inches, and 36 inches. Shorter lengths facilitate forming a handle of the carrying assembly so that the carrying strap 52 may be grasped with one's hand. Longer lengths may facilitate use of the carrying strap 52 as a shoulder strap, which may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches, 28 inches, 29 inches, 30 inches, 31 inches, 32 inches, 33 inches, 34 inches, 35 inches, and 36 inches.

The carrying strap 52 may be adjustable, such as through the use of buckles, strap adjusters or sliders, so that the strap 52 may be lengthened or shortened to selected lengths, such as those lengths discussed above.

In the embodiment illustrated, the carrying strap 52 is positioned so that the body or length of the strap 52 overlays the upper sidewalls 16 of the compartments 12, 14 so that it is accessible when the carrying assembly 10 is folded to the configuration of FIG. 6, wherein the lower sidewall 18 of each compartment 12, 14 faces the lower sidewall 18 of the other compartment 12, 14 in a touching, near-touching or adjacent position or relationship. The position of the strap 52 may be reversed, however, so that the body or length of the strap 52 overlays the lower sidewalls 18 of the compartments 12, 14. In such case, the carrying strap 52 would be accessible when the carrying assembly is folded to the configuration of FIG. 5, wherein the upper sidewalls 16 of each compartment 12, 14 faces the lower sidewall 18 of the other compartment 12, 14 in a touching, near-touching or adjacent position or relationship.

In certain instances, the carrying strap 52 may be selectively positionable to either of these positions. If the strap 52 is releasably coupled to the carrying assembly body 54, this may be achieved by unfastening one or both ends of the carrying strap 52, so that it may be repositioned on the other side of the carrying assembly 10. If the carrying strap 52 is non-releasably coupled to the carrying assembly body 54, one of the compartments 12, 14 may be passed under the strap 52 so that the strap 52 is then repositioned on the other side of the carrying assembly 10. This would typically be done when the compartment 12, 14 is empty to facilitate folding or gathering the material of the compartment together to minimize its size so that it readily passes under the strap 52.

In particular embodiments, only two carrying straps may be provided with the carrying assembly 10. In such case, one or both of the two straps may be releasably coupled to the carrying assembly body 54 so that it may be selectively positioned and recoupled as either one of the end straps 48, 50 of the compartments 12, 14 or as the center strap 52 in different selected modes of use of the carrying assembly 10.

A seat cushion 72 and blanket 74 may also be provided with the carrying assembly 10. The seat cushion 72 includes a seat cushion body 74 of a solid cushioning material. The cushioning material may be a resilient foam pad or pads. The foam material may be an open or closed cell foam of polymeric or elastomeric material, such as closed cell sponge rubber. Suitable materials for the cushion body 76 may include polyurethane foam materials. In certain applications, the foam material is a closed cell foam.

The cushion body 76 may have a density of from 1 lb/ft³ to 5 lb/ft³, more particularly from 1 lb/ft³ to 3 lb/ft³. In particular embodiments, the cushioning material of the cushion body 74 may have a density which may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 1.0 lb/ft³, 1.1 lb/ft³, 1.2 lb/ft³, 1.3 lb/ft³, 1.4 lb/ft³, 1.5 lb/ft³, 1.6 lb/ft³, 1.7 lb/ft³, 1.8 lb/ft³, 1.9 lb/ft³, 2.0 lb/ft³, 2.1 lb/ft³, 2.2 lb/ft³, 2.3 lb/ft³, 2.4 lb/ft³, 2.5 lb/ft³, 2.6 lb/ft³, 2.7 lb/ft³, 2.8 lb/ft³, 2.9 lb/ft³, 3.0 lb/ft³, 3.1 lb/ft³, 3.2 lb/ft³, 3.3 lb/ft³, 3.4 lb/ft³, 3.5 lb/ft³, 3.6 lb/ft³, 3.7 lb/ft³, 3.8 lb/ft³, 3.9 lb/ft³, 4.0 lb/ft³′, 4.1 lb/ft³, 4.2 lb/ft³, 4.3 lb/ft³, 4.4 lb/ft³, 4.5 lb/ft³, 4.6 lb/ft³, 4.7 lb/ft³, 4.8 lb/ft³, 4.9 lb/ft³, and 5 lb/ft³.

The cushion material of the cushion body 76 may have a 25% Indention Load Deflection (ILD) (lbs) according to ASTM D 3574 of from 8 to 70. In particular embodiments, the cushioning material of the cushion body 74 may have a 25% ILD (lbs) according to ASTM D 3574 which may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, and 70.

In other embodiments, the cushioning material of the cushion body is a non-solid material, such as a loose particulate material or fibrous material, such as foam beads, down, feathers, polyfill, etc.

The cushion body 76 may be non-allergenic, breathable, durable, and formed from some portion or all of recycled materials.

All or a portion cushion body 76 may be encased in an optional covering material 78 that is sized to receive the cushion body 76. The covering material may provide a snug or tight fit around the cushion body so that it generally conforms to the shape or configuration of the cushion body 76. In other embodiments, the covering material 78 may loosely fit around the cushion body 76.

The seat cushion 72 may be provided with a further outer covering 80 that covers the inner covering 78 and cushion body 76. The covering material 80 may also provide a snug or tight fit around the cushion body 76 so that it generally conforms to the shape or configuration of the cushion body 76, which may be covered with the inner covering 78. In other embodiments, the covering material 80 may loosely fit around the cushion body 76. In certain instances, the inner covering 78 may be absent with the cushion body 76 only being covered by the covering 80. In still other embodiments, no separate coverings may be provided with the cushion body 76.

Each of the covering materials 78, 80 may be a thin, flexible sheet materials, which may be the same or different from one another. The sheet material may be waterproof, water-resistant, or non-permeable material to protect the cushion body 74 from moisture, etc. In some embodiments, the coverings 78, 80 may be formed from a polymeric sheet material, such as vinyl, polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyolefin, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamine, polycarbonate, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene, polyester, polyamide, etc. In other embodiments, the covering materials 78, 80 may be a cloth, fabric or woven material, which may be a natural (e.g., cotton) or synthetic fabric, or a blend of such materials. In certain embodiments, the fabric material is a polymeric fabric, such as polyester, polyolefin, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, etc., or combinations of these. The material of the coverings 78, 80 may be treated or coated with a waterproof or water-resistant material. The coverings 78, 80 may cover the entire cushion body 76 so that it is entirely protected or covered by the covering material. The inner covering 78 may be non-removable from the cushion body 76, while the outer covering 80 may be removable. In other embodiments, both the inner cover 78 and outer cover 80 are removable.

The inner and outer coverings 78, 80 may be provided with one or more openings to facilitate insertion and removal of the cushion body 76. As shown in FIG. 4, the covering 80 is shown with an opening 82 to facilitate insertion and removable of the covered cushion body 76. As shown, the opening 82 extends across all or a portion of the width of the side edge of the cushion 72 to facilitate insertion and removable of the cushion body 76. The opening 82 may be positioned differently at different positions provided it allows access to the interior of the cover 80 for insertion and removal of the seat cushion body 76.

The covering 80 is shown with a closure or fastening means 84 for selectively opening and closing the opening 82. Additional materials may be used to provide such closing or fastening means, such as an additional layer or layers of sheet material or other materials and components. The closure 84 may be in the form of releasable fasteners, such as hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), snaps, buttons, rib and groove fasteners (e.g., Ziploc®), etc. In the embodiment shown, the closure 84 is a zipper fastener. The zipper 84 may be secured to the side edges of the opening 82 such as through gluing, epoxy, stitching, welding, heat welding, or other fastening methods or combinations of these. The zipper 84 may be waterproof. A waterproof or water-resistant thread, such as nylon thread, may be used to stitch or join the tape or zipper fabric material of the zipper 84 to the side edges of the opening 82. The teeth of the zipper 84 may be plastic or metal. Sealing materials or coatings may also be used to seal any moisture permeable materials of the zipper 84.

The seat cushion 72 may be sized and configured to be inserted through one or both of the openings 40, 42 and be fully received within one or both of the compartments 12, 14 of the carrying assembly 10 so that the closures 44, 46 may be closed when the seat cushion is received within the compartments 12, 14. The entire seat cushion 72 may therefore have dimensions similar to those dimensions of the compartments 12, 14 or be smaller or slightly smaller (e.g., from 1 to 3 inches less than those of the compartments 12, 14). In many applications, the seat cushion 72 may have a rectangular or cuboid configuration. In other instances, however, the seat cushion 72 may have non-rectangular or non-cuboid configuration, with a profile wherein side edges of the seat cushion are contoured, polygonal, arcuate, etc.

The seat cushion 72 may be sized and configured to fit on most stadium-type seating. In particular embodiments, the covered seat cushion 72 or cushion body 76 may have an overall or total length that may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12, inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, and 20 inches. The overall or total width of each compartment may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches, 19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches, 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches, and 28 inches. The length of the seat cushion 72 corresponds to the length of the compartments 12, 14 and the width of the seat cushion 72 corresponds to the width of the compartments 12, 14. The overall or total thickness or height of the covered seat cushion 72 or cushion body 76 may be from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 0.5 inch, 1 inch, 1.5 inch, 2 inches, 2.5 inches, 3 inches, 3.5 inches, 4 inches, 4.5 inches, and 5 inches.

In certain instances, various logos, indicia or designs 86 may be provided on the exterior surface of the outer covering 80 on one or more sides or on any portion of the seat cushion 72. These may be logos or indicia relating to various schools, sports teams, organizations, activities, etc., where the carrying assembly 10 may be used. Providing such logos or indicia on the removable outer covering 80 allow the outer covering 80 to be removed from the seat cushion 72. The seat cushion 72 may be then provided with another covering 80 that may have a different selected logo or indicia 86 depending upon the activity the carrying assembly 10 is to be used. Because the sidewalls 16, 18 of the compartments 12, 14 may be of a transparent material, the cushion 72 with its logos or indicia will still remain visible when carried with the carrying assembly 10.

The blanket 74 may be used as a lap or body blanket or shield during cold or inclement weather or environments. The blanket 72 may be a fabric material, which may be natural, synthetic or a combination of such materials. In many applications, the blanket 74 will be a single- or double-sided synthetic fleece material. The fleece material may be formed from polymeric materials, such as polyester (e.g., PET). The fleece material may be a micro fleece or polar fleece, in weights of micro, 100, 200, and 300.

The blanket 74 may have an overall rectangular configuration or it may have other non-rectangular configurations such as a tapered shape (e.g., trapezoidal), polygonal, circular, oval, etc. The blanket 74 may have an overall or total width of from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 30 inches, 31 inches, 32 inches, 33 inches, 34 inches, 36 inches, 37 inches, 38 inches, 39 inches, 40 inches, 41 inches, 42 inches, 43 inches, 44 inches, 46 inches, 47 inches, 48 inches, 49 inches, 50 inches, 51 inches, 52 inches, 53 inches, 54 inches, 56 inches, 57 inches, 58 inches, 59 inches, 60 inches, 61 inches, 62 inches, 63 inches, 64 inches, 66 inches, 67 inches, 68 inches, 69 inches, 70 inches, 71 inches, and 72 inches. The blanket 74 may have an overall or total length of from at least, equal to, and/or between any two of 36 inches, 37 inches, 38 inches, 39 inches, 40 inches, 41 inches, 42 inches, 43 inches, 44 inches, 46 inches, 47 inches, 48 inches, 49 inches, 50 inches, 51 inches, 52 inches, 53 inches, 54 inches, 56 inches, 57 inches, 58 inches, 59 inches, 60 inches, 61 inches, 62 inches, 63 inches, 64 inches, 66 inches, 67 inches, 68 inches, 69 inches, 70 inches, 71 inches, 72 inches, 73 inches, 74 inches, 76 inches, 77 inches, 78 inches, 79 inches, 80 inches, 80 inches, 81 inches, 82 inches, 83 inches, 84 inches, 86 inches, 87 inches, 88 inches, 89 inches, 90 inches, 91 inches, 92 inches, 93 inches, 94 inches, 96 inches, 97 inches, 98 inches, 99 inches, 100 inches, 100 inches, 101 inches, 102 inches, 103 inches, 104 inches, 106 inches, 107 inches, 108 inches, 109 inches, and 110 inches.

The blanket 74 is sized and configured so that it can be folded and inserted through one or both of the openings 40, 42 and be fully received within one or both of the compartments 12, 14 of the carrying assembly 10 so that the closures 44, 46 may be closed when the blanket 74 is received within the compartments 12, 14.

In some embodiments, the blanket 74 may be provided with a releasable coupling device 88 that cooperates and engages a coupling device 90 provided on the carrier assembly body 54. This may be in the form of hook and loop strips (e.g., Velcro®), snaps, buttons, rib and groove fasteners (e.g., Ziploc®), etc. In the embodiment shown, the fasteners 88, 90 are strips of hook and loop fastener material that are coupled, such as through adhesives (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.), stitching, weaving, welding, heat welding, rivets, staples, mechanical fasteners, or other fastening methods or combinations of these, to the blanket 74 and carrier assembly body 54. In this instance, the hook and loop strip(s) 90 is provided on the upper sidewall 16 of compartment 14 adjacent (e.g., from 0 to 2 inches) from the edge of the zipper assembly 46, although it may be positioned at other positions.

The hook and loop strip(s) 88 of the blanket 74 may be coupled to a portion of the blanket 74, such as along one end or along a side edge. Where the blanket 74 has a trapezoidal shape, the strip 88 may be coupled to a shorter side of the trapezoid. In certain embodiments, the blanket 76 may be releasably or non-releasably folded, pleated, or gathered, such as with a box pleat, where it is coupled to the strip(s) 88. In one mode of use, the blanket 74 may remain attached to the carrier assembly body 54 through the fasteners 88, 90 during use. The blanket 74 may then be removed for washing or when it is not needed. In other embodiments of the carrier assembly 10, the fasteners 88, 90 are eliminated, with no fasteners 88, 90 being present on the blanket 74 and carrier assembly body 54.

In use, the seat cushion 72 and blanket 74 are each inserted into one of the compartments 12, 14 through the openings 40, 42. In FIG. 1, the seat cushion 72 is shown inserted into compartment 12 and the blanket 74 is inserted into compartment 14. The openings 40, 42 may be closed through the use of the closures or zipper assemblies 44, 46. As shown, the seat cushion 72 generally fills or may be closely received within the compartment 12 so that it remains stationary within the compartment 12 with little room for shifting within the compartment. In other embodiments, the seat cushion 72 may be sized and configured so that there is more room within the compartment, allowing the seat cushion 72 to be moved or shifted around within the compartment 12. This may also be true of the blanket 74, which is shown in a folded configuration within compartment 14.

Referring to FIG. 5, with the cushion 72 and blanket 74 of the carrying assembly 10 positioned within the compartments 12, 14, in one mode of use, the carrying assembly 10 may be folded about the hinge portion 38 so that the upper sidewall 16 of each compartment 12, 14 faces the upper sidewall 16 of the other compartment 12, 14. The upper sidewalls 16 may be in a touching, near-touching or adjacent position or relationship. In this configuration, the carrying straps 48, 50 may be used together as a handle or as a shoulder strap that can be slung over one shoulder of the user. The wrap handle 60 may be used to couple the straps 48, 50 together, as shown, if desired. In this mode of use, the center strap 52 may be sandwiched between the two compartments 12, 14 so that it is generally hidden and out of the way.

As shown in FIG. 6, in another mode of use, the carrying assembly 10 is folded so that the lower sidewall 18 of each compartment 12, 14 faces the lower sidewall 18 of the other compartment 12, 14. The lower sidewalls 18 may be in a touching or near-touching adjacent position or relationship. In this mode of use, the carrying strap 52 is accessible, as well as the carrying straps 48, 50. The carrying straps 48, 50 may be coupled together by the wrap handle 60. In the mode of use shown in FIG. 6, the carrying straps 48, 50 together form one shoulder strap that can be mounted over one shoulder of the user and the carrying strap 52 can be mounted over the other shoulder of the user so that one of the surfaces of the upper and lower sidewalls 16, 18 rests against the user's back. The carrying assembly 10 may then be used as a backpack.

In either mode of use, the carrying assembly 10 allows the user to easily and conveniently carry and transport the seat cushion 72 and blanket 74 to the desired venue or activity where the carried items will be used. As shown in FIG. 7, the user may remove the blanket 74 from its carrying assembly compartment to cover the user or others. If the blanket 74 employs the coupling device 88, it may be used either attached or detached from the carrying assembly body 54.

The seat cushion 72 may also be removed from its carrying assembly compartment and used as a seat cushion. Alternatively, the seat cushion 72 may be left in its compartment and the user may sit on the carrying assembly 10 without removing the seat cushion, as is shown in FIG. 7.

The carrying assembly 10 can be sized and configured for use by children, as well. In such cases, the lengths and widths of the compartments 12, 14, as they have been described, as well as other portions of the carrying assembly 10, may be reduced to be from ½ to ⅔ of those dimensions described previously.

As shown in FIG. 8, in another mode of use, one or both of the seat cushion 72 and blanket 74 may be removed and the carrying assembly 10 may be used to contain and carry other articles. These may include such things as a water or beverage container 92, towel, poncho, rain gear or jacket 94, keys 96, cell phone or mobile device 98, books or reading materials 100, etc.

A small bag or container 102 may also be provided with the carrying assembly 10 for carrying small articles, such as keys, mobile phone, etc. This may be formed from waterproof or water-resistant materials, such as neoprene and the like. In certain embodiments, the bag or container 102 may be formed from transparent materials, such as those described with respect to the upper and lower sidewall materials. The bag or container 102 has a closable opening for accessing the interior of the container with a closure for closing the opening. This may be in the form of releasable fasteners, such as zippers, hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), snaps, buttons, rib and groove fasteners (e.g., Ziploc®), etc.

The bag or container 102 may be provided with a permanent or detachable coupling or fastener for permanently or detachably coupling the bag or container 102 to the carrying assembly body 52. This may be in the form of various fasteners such as those already described (e.g., hook and loop). The bag or container 102 may be secured to various portions of the carrying assembly 10, such as on the shoulder straps 48, 50, 52 or on any portion of the compartments 12, 14 and central panel 28.

The carrying assembly 10 has many advantages. It provides a convenient way to carry a seat cushion and/or blanket, as well as other items. It can be carried over one shoulder or as a backpack so that the user's hands remain free for carrying or handling other items, etc. The carrying assembly 10 is formed from transparent materials so that the items within are visible. This allows the logos 86 of the seat cushion or other items to be visible. It is not uncommon for venues for sporting events and other activities to have security measures that only allow containers or bags that are transparent so that security personnel can readily see what items are being brought to the venue. The carrying assembly 10 meets such security requirements by allowing the items within the carrying assembly to be visible.

The carrying assembly 10 is durable and is made from waterproof or water-resistant materials so that the seat cushion 72, blanket 74 or other items remain protected and dry.

While the invention has been shown in only some of its forms, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that it is not so limited, but is susceptible to various changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A multi-functional seat cushion carrying assembly comprising: a carrying assembly body comprising first and second carrying assembly compartments, at each compartment having opposite upper and lower flexible sidewalls that define an interior of the compartment, each compartment having at least one opening for accessing the interior of said compartment, the compartments being joined together along an inner edge by a flexible hinge portion so that the compartments are movable about the hinge portion between folded and unfolded positions wherein the at least one of the upper and lower sidewalls of each compartments is positioned so that said at least one of the upper and lower sidewalls faces the corresponding at least one of the upper and lower sidewalls of the other compartment when in the folded position, and wherein at least one of the first and second compartments is configured to receive a seat cushion within the interior of said at least one of the first and second compartments; anda carrying strap coupled to the carrying assembly body to facilitate carrying of the carrying assembly body.

2. The carrying assembly of claim 1, wherein: the compartments are movable about the hinge portion to different opposite folded positions wherein the upper sidewall of each compartment faces the upper sidewall of the other compartment in one folded position and wherein the lower sidewall of each compartment faces the lower sidewall of the other compartment in another folded position.

3. The carrying assembly of claim 1, wherein: the carrying strap comprises a carrying strap coupled to an outer edge of each compartment.

4. The carrying assembly of claim 3, wherein: the carrying strap further comprises a carrying strap coupled to the hinge portion of the carrying assembly body.

5. The carrying assembly of claim 1, wherein: at least a portion of at least on of the upper and lower sidewalls of each compartment is formed from a transparent material so that the interior of each compartment is visible through said transparent material.

6. The carrying assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a seat cushion that is received within the interior of at least one of the compartments.

7. The carrying assembly of claim 6, wherein: the seat cushion has a thickness of from 2 inches to 5 inches.

8. The carrying assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a blanket that is received within the interior of at least one of the compartments.

9. The carrying assembly of claim 1, wherein: the at least one opening of at least one compartment is located adjacent the hinge portion of the carrying assembly body.

10. The carrying assembly of claim 1, wherein: each compartment has a length of from 10 inches to 24 inches and a width of from 14 to 30 inches.

11. A multi-functional seat cushion carrying assembly comprising: a carrying assembly body comprising first and second carrying assembly compartments, at each compartment having opposite upper and lower flexible sidewalls that define an interior of the compartment, at least a portion of at least one of the upper and lower sidewalls being formed from a transparent material so that the interior of each compartment is visible through said transparent material, each compartment has a length of from 10 inches to 24 inches and a width of from 14 to 30 inches, each compartment having at least one opening for accessing the interior of said compartment, the compartments being joined together along an inner edge by a flexible hinge portion so that the compartments are movable about the hinge portion to different opposite folded positions wherein the upper sidewall of each compartment faces the upper sidewall of the other compartment in one folded position and wherein the lower sidewall of each compartment faces the lower sidewall of the other compartment in another folded position; anda carrying strap coupled to an outer edge of each compartment;a center carrying strap coupled to the hinge portion of the carrying assembly body, the center carrying strap being accessible for use as a carrying strap when the carrying assembly body is folded to one of the opposite folded positions, the center carrying strap being inaccessible when the carrying assembly body is folded to the other folded position; anda seat cushion that is received within the interior of at least one of the compartments.

12. The carrying assembly of claim 11, wherein: the seat cushion has a thickness of from 2 inches to 5 inches, a length of from 8 inches to 20 inches and a width of from 12 to 28 inches.

13. The carrying assembly of claim 11, further comprising: a blanket that is received within the interior of at least one of the compartments.

14. The carrying assembly of claim 11, wherein: each carrying strap has a length of from 20 to 36 inches.

15. The carrying assembly of claim 11, wherein: the at least one opening of at least one compartment is located adjacent the hinge portion of the carrying assembly body.

16. The carrying assembly of claim 11, wherein: the seat cushion is covered in a waterproof fabric material.

17. The carrying assembly of claim 11, wherein: the surface of the seat cushion is provided with indicia, the indicia being visible through the transparent material of the at least one of the upper and lower sidewalls when the seat cushion is received within the interior of the at least one of the compartments.

18. The carrying assembly of claim 11, wherein: the transparent material forms both upper and lower sidewalls.

19. The carrying assembly of claim 18, wherein: the transparent material is transparent 14 to 20-gauge flexible vinyl polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamine, polycarbonate, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polystyrene, polyester, polyamide, and combinations of these.

20. A multi-functional seat cushion carrying assembly comprising: a carrying assembly body comprising first and second carrying assembly compartments, at each compartment having opposite upper and lower flexible sidewalls that define an interior of the compartment, the upper and lower sidewalls being formed from a transparent material so that the interior of each compartment is visible through said transparent material, the transparent material being a transparent 14 to 20-gauge flexible polymeric material, each compartment has a length of from 10 inches to 24 inches and a width of from 14 to 30 inches, each compartment having at least one opening for accessing the interior of said compartment, the compartments being joined together along an inner edge by a flexible hinge portion so that the compartments are movable about the hinge portion to different opposite folded positions wherein the upper sidewall of each compartment faces the upper sidewall of the other compartment in one folded position and wherein the lower sidewall of each compartment faces the lower sidewall of the other compartment in another folded position; anda carrying strap coupled to an outer edge of each compartment, each carrying strap having a length of from 20 to 36 inches;a center carrying strap having a length of from 20 to 36 inches coupled to the hinge portion of the carrying assembly body, the center carrying strap being accessible for use as a carrying strap when the carrying assembly body is folded to one of the opposite folded positions, the center carrying strap being inaccessible when the carrying assembly body is folded to the other folded position;a seat cushion that is received within the interior of at least one of the compartments, the seat cushion having a thickness of from 2 inches to 5 inches, a length of from 8 inches to 20 inches and a width of from 12 to 28 inches, the seat cushion being covered in a waterproof fabric material, anda removable blanket that is received within the interior of at least one of the compartments.