Patent Grant
11311084
The present invention generally relates to a travel bag or a packaging container. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention are directed toward a modular travel, garment bag or similar container system that can be customized based on the needs of the user. Furthermore, the various modules or segments of the bag may have different shapes and sizes so as to be adapted to carry items, with such modules or segments being combinable in varying arrangements to provide a flexibly configured bag that is suitable for a variety of uses. The present invention also relates to a packaging system for suits, blazers and jackets from garment, fashion and retail brands.
Traditional luggage and baggage solutions lack the flexibility that is important for a modern traveler. In particular, traditional luggage and baggage designs have a fixed size that cannot be adapted to fit the needs of a traveler for a given trip or activity, and in many cases they require a traveler to check a bag rather than keep the bag as carry-on item. Additionally, traditional luggage typically requires a traveler to use one hand to carry, push, or pull the bag, which can be a detriment to the modern traveler that needs both hands free for tasks such as eating, drinking, reading, or using a mobile electronic device. Furthermore, currently available luggage and baggage solutions do not effectively incorporate features that are important to the modern traveler, most notably a battery charger, GPS, speakers or similar electrical or power sources, which have become essential with the ever increasing reliance on mobile electronics.
Also, the traditional designs of certain types of luggage do not effectively achieve the intended function of the bag. For example, traditional garment bags require that the clothing placed within the bag to be folded which results in wrinkles. Moreover the shape of the traditional garment bag is such that it is bulky and awkward to carry. In particular, the thin, flat shape of traditional garment bags makes them unstable to wind forces and difficult to carry in crowds, which further exacerbates the garment bags discomfort. Additionally, the bulk of traditional garment bags often mean that a traveler cannot keep the garment bag as a carry-on item, thereby defeating the purpose of keeping the garment bag with the traveler to help ensure the secure and wrinkle-free transport of the garments therein. Although there are certain rolling garment bag solutions available, those solutions also suffer from similar limitations due to the large diameter and bulk, which make such bags uncomfortable to carry, especially on the back. Additionally, the flexible nature of many currently available garment bags limits the ability for such garment bags to provide protection to the items being carried. Finally, currently available rolled garment bags do not provide a rolling device with a means to firmly secure a garment in order to start the rolling of the garment.
Therefore, there is a need in the art for a multipurpose modular bag or container that can be taken as carry-on bag, is adapted to fit the specific needs of a traveler on a given trip, provides different levels of protections to items retained within the bag, avoids wrinkles and creases in the garments, allows for hands free carrying and can also be used as a packaging for suits, jackets and blazer while selling such garments. These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be explained and will become obvious to one skilled in the art through the summary of the invention that follows.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a modular baggage and packaging solution where some of the modules can be replaced by others due to the connections among them, allowing a highly flexible solution as the bag can be adapted to fit the needs of a particular trip, activity or individual traveler in particular, the present invention is a modular travel bag that incorporates features of a garment bag by providing an embodiment that allows for a garment to be rolled and stored for transport, thereby reducing the occurrence of wrinkles and protecting the garment from the external elements.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a modular travel bag comprising a first bag module comprising a longitudinal axis defined by a first longitudinal end point at one end of the longitudinal axis and by a second longitudinal end point at the opposite end of the longitudinal axis, a shell that is elongated along the longitudinal axis of the bag module, a storage cavity formed inside of the shell, one or more access points that provide access to the storage cavity, and one or more module connection members, and a second bag module comprising a shell, a storage cavity formed inside of the shell, one or more access points that provide access to the storage cavity, and one or more module connection members, wherein a detachable connection between one of the module connection members on the first bag module and one of the module connection members on the second bag module will cause the second bag module to become aligned with and connected to one of the longitudinal end points of the first bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first bag module is configured to have the second bag module aligned at either end of the longitudinal axis of the first bag module
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first bag module is a garment bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, garment bag module comprises a garment rolling device comprising a garment rolling sheet connected to a clipping device formed by two garment rolling guide bars that are separable to provide a clipping effect so that a garment may be secured between the garment rolling guide bars, wherein the garment rolling device is inserted into the garment bag module at one of the access points of the first bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the garment bag module comprises a garment rolling device comprising a first hanger bar, a second hanger bar attached to the first hanger bar by a connector sheet, one or more clipping elements on the first hanger bar, and a hook, wherein the garment rolling device is inserted into the garment bag module at one of the access points of the first bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the access point is formed in the shell.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the access point is further comprised on an access door that covers the access point formed in the shell.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the access point is a hinge that in the shell that is openable to provide an access point.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the detachable connection is an indirect connection formed by a module linking connector.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the detachable connection is formed by securely abutting the second bag module to the first bag module such that the second bag module is extensive with one of the longitudinal end points of the first bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the one of the bag modules is a telescoping bag module or an accordion-like bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, any of the one or more module connectors of each of bag modules may be any module connector selected from a group of module connectors consisting of male-female connectors, zipper connectors, clip connectors, latches, buckle connectors, magnetic connectors, electronic connectors, rubber connectors, threaded connectors, vacuum connections, friction-fit connectors, clamping connectors, snap-fit connectors, and springs.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the modular bag further comprises one or more accessories selected from the group of accessories consisting of carrying elements, wheels, and hanger elements.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the carrying elements are selected from the group of carrying elements consisting of hand holds, cords, grips, bandoliers, shoulder straps, backpack straps, hooks, and retractable handles.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the modular bag further comprises one or more supplemental storage containers that are attached to a side wall of one of the bag modules.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a modular travel bag comprising a first bag module comprising a longitudinal axis defined by a first longitudinal end point at one end of the longitudinal axis and by a second longitudinal end point at the opposite end of the longitudinal axis, a shell that is elongated along the longitudinal axis of the bag module, a storage cavity formed inside of the shell, one or more access points that provide access to the storage cavity, and one or more module connectors, and a second bag module comprising a main body portion and one or more module connectors, wherein the main body portion is defined by a first end and by a second end, wherein a first detachable connection between one of the module connectors on the first bag module and one of the module connectors on the second bag module will cause one of the ends of the second bag module to become aligned with and connected to one of the longitudinal end points of the first bag module and the second bag module is configured to align with the first bag module from either of the ends of the second bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the modular bag further comprises a third bag module with one or more connectors, wherein a second detachable connection between one of the module connectors on the second bag module and one of the module connectors on the third bag module will cause the third bag module to become aligned with and connected to the end of the second bag module that is opposite the first detachable connection.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second bag module is an electronic device module selected from a group of electronic devices modules consisting of a speaker for connecting to external or internal audio device, media player, geolocation device, digital display screen, electronic ink display, a power source, or battery charger.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a modular travel bag comprising a first bag module comprising a main body portion defined by a first end at one end of the main body portion and by a second end at the opposite end of the main body portion, a storage area formed inside of the main body portion, one or more access points that provide access to the storage area, and one or more module connectors, and a second bag module comprising a main body portion and one or more module connectors, wherein the main body portion is defined by a first end and by a second end, wherein a main body portion of one of the bag modules is formed by rolling one or more sheets of material to create a substantially tubular bag module, wherein a detachable connection between one of the module connectors on the first bag module and one of the module connectors on the second bag module will cause one of the ends of the second bag module to become aligned with and connected to one of the end of the first bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, one of the bag modules is a garment bag module.
The foregoing summary of the present invention should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention. It should be understood and obvious to one skilled in the art that the embodiments of the invention thus described may be further modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
The present invention generally relates to a travel bag or a packaging container. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention are directed toward a modular travel, garment bag or similar container system that can be customized based on the needs of the user. Furthermore, the various modules or segments of the bag may have different shapes and sizes so as to be adapted to carry items, with such modules or segments being combinable in varying arrangements to provide a flexibly configured bag that is suitable for a variety of uses. The present invention also relates to a packaging system for suits, blazers and jackets from garment, fashion and retail brands.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a modular travel bag that can be assembled into a customized configuration based on the requirements of given trip or activity. In one embodiment, the modular travel bag may be comprised of various bag modules, each of which are comprised of a main body portion with a first end a second end, one or more access points on the main body portion, and one or more module connectors. In alternate embodiments, the modular travel bag may include fewer or additional components and features depending upon the intended use of the bag. Optional components include, but are not limited to (i) a garment rolling guide bar or garment rolling sheet, (ii) straps, handles, and other carrying elements; (iii) wheels, rollers, and similar means for carrying, reshaping or moving the modular bag; (iv) hangers, hooks, and similar elements for hanging the bag and; (v) supplemental storage compartments that are formed on or attached to the main body portion of the bag module (vi) electronic devices; and (vii) power source devices. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that numerous possible components and configurations for a modular bag, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such component or configuration.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the modular travel bag primarily comprises a variety of bag modules. In one embodiment, the various bag modules could be combined in any suitable fashion or each bag module could be used individually. In one embodiment, the modular nature of the bag allows a user to assemble a customized baggage solution to precisely meet the needs of a user. As an illustrative example, the modular bag could be assembled into a configuration that allows it to be used as carry-on baggage in an airplane. In one embodiment, a bag module will have a diameter of between 7 cm and 36 cm, with a diameter of 12.5 cm that provides a balance between wrinkle-resistance and ease of transport. In some embodiments, a bag module may be of a continuous diameter, while in other embodiments a bag module may vary in diameter. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that each bag module could be configured in any suitable size range without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the modules of the modular bag are connected in an end-to-end arrangement. In one embodiment, the primary axis of the modular bag is elongated by connecting an end of a first bag module to an end of second bag module such that the total length of the modular bag is greater than the length of either of the first and second bag modules alone. In this embodiment, the connection of an end of a first bag module to an end of second bag module may result in an assembled modular bag with any variety of shapes, including but not limited to straight, curved, polygonal, fractal, or irregular lines.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a bag module may be defined by a shell wall that forms the exterior of said bag module. The shell wall may also be referred to as a module shell wall or the exterior wall of the module. In one embodiment, a storage cavity is formed within and defined by the shell wall. In this embodiment, the shell wall terminates at a first end point on one end of the bag module and at a second end point on the opposite end of the bag module. In this embodiment, there may be any number of openings formed in the shell wall including, but not limited to, an opening at each end the shell, an opening at only one end of the shell, or one or more openings on the side wall of the shell. In some embodiments, a bag module may be completely solid and function merely as a connector. In other embodiments, a bag module may be solid and function as an electrical, digital or power source device.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a bag module may be formed from a module wall sheet where the bag module is created by rolling one or more sheets of material to create a stable tube-like section. The module wall sheet may also be referred to as a rollable module wall. In one embodiment, a storage area is located on the surface the module wall sheet that will become the inner side of the bag module once the module is rolled into form. In an alternate embodiment, the rolling of the module wall sheet creates a storage cavity that is on the inside of the formed tubular garment bag. In some embodiments, the tubular bag module terminates at a first end point on one end of the bag module and at a second end point on the opposite end of the bag module. In some embodiments the module wall sheet is flexible to permit rolling and is continuously bendable in at least the primary rolling direction. In some embodiments, the module wall sheet may also include a plurality of bending lines arranged perpendicularly to the primary rolling direction that provide for a module wall sheet with a segmented construction. In some embodiments, the module wall sheet can be automatically rolled-up or stretched, in a fashion that is similar to a projection screen or window shade. In some embodiments, the module wall sheet may include additional sheets of material. In one embodiment, a tubular bag module could be used as a garment bag module. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate there are many possible configurations for a tubular bag module, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such configuration.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, each of the bag modules may be formed in any suitable shape. In one embodiment, each of the bag modules may be configured as a generally tubular design, with the tubular design being in any suitable shape including, but not limited to, circular, oval, elliptical, triangular, square, hexagonal, or similar shape. In another embodiment, a bag module may have a non-tubular design, such as a substantially conical or cube design. In this embodiment, each bag module may be rigid, semi-rigid, soft-sided, flexible, or inflatable, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, a bag module may vary in cross-section along its length. In some embodiments, certain bag modules may have a cross-section that is determined by internal or external pressures, such as inflatable portions or from pressure from garments inside of the module. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that each bag module could be configured in any suitable shape without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, bag modules may be configured with a variety of visual appearances. For example, bag modules may be opaque with any type of colored or texture. Bag modules may also be transparent or translucent with any type of texture. In some embodiments, a given bag module could use different materials, finishes or opacities on the outside and inside surfaces of the module or throughout different parts of the module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, each of the bag modules may be fabricated from a variety of lightweight materials. In one embodiment, a bag module may be fabricated using any number of materials including, but not limited to, carbon fiber, nylon, fiberglass, polyester, polymers, plastics, leather, graphite, cardboard, foam, cotton, and other fabrics, thermo-formable materials, shape-memory alloys, aramid fibers (e.g. Nomex® or Kevlar®) and aluminum and other lightweight metals, or any suitable combination thereof. A bag module may be opaque, translucent, transparent, or colored. In some embodiments, different treatments or finish materials may be applied to the surface of the bag module, including, but not limited to treatments for waterproofing and stain resistance. In some embodiments the bag module may be an open-mesh that provides rigidity and protection to any secondary removable bags located inside such modules. In some embodiments, the interior of a bag module may be configured with different finishes or materials than the exterior to provide a more finished look or to add, for example, padding to protect items that are placed in the bag module. In some embodiments, the structure of a bag module may include a framework that supports lighter weight materials that form the majority of the bag module. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are many suitable materials that could be used to fabricate a bag module, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such material.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, one or more access points may be located in or on the main body portion of a bag module. In one embodiment, an access point formed at either end of the bag module, the side wall of the main body portion of the bag module, or any combination thereof is provided. In some embodiments, the access point may be formed as an opening at both ends of the bag module, creating a tube-like bag module. In some embodiments, the access point may be formed only at one end of the bag module, creating an open-top canister or cylinder. In some embodiments, the access point may be formed in a side wall of the main body portion of the bag module. In such an embodiment, the access point may further include an access door that covers the access point, wherein the access door may be hinged, partially detachable, or completely detachable from the side wall to provide entry to the access point. In some embodiments, the access point may be provided by a longitudinal body hinge that extends along the length of the side wall of the bag module, thereby allowing the bag module to be opened up to provide an access point along the entire length of the bag module. In some embodiments, the access point may be provided by unrolling a module wall sheet that creates the bag module, thereby providing an access point to the bag module. In this embodiment, the access point may include an access point securing device to cover, latch, or otherwise secure the access point in a closed position. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are many ways in which to form an access point in a bag module, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such access points.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the access point may be secured or covered. In one embodiment, the access point is secured with a cap, latch, strap, buckle, clip, zipper, magnet, or any similar device that could be used to cover or secure an access point. As an illustrative example, an end cap might be used to close off a bag module that has an access point at the end of the bag module, while a latch may be used to secure the access door to an access point formed in the side wall of the bag module. In some embodiments, the access point securing device may incorporate security measures that include, but are not limited to, biometric locks, digital, electronic, magnetic or mechanical password locks, and near-field communications where a user's electronic device is used to authorize access. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are a variety of suitable access point securing device that could be used to secure an access point of a bag module, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such access point securing device.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a first bag module may be reversibly connectable to a second bag module via a module connector. In one embodiment, the module connectors may facilitate the detachable connection and combination of different bag modules in varying arrangements based upon the needs of the user. In this embodiment, the module connectors could be any suitable connector including, but not limited to, zippers, male-female connectors, magnets, pressure or friction fit connectors, snap-fit connectors, clip connectors, latches, buckle connectors, electronic connectors, rubber connectors, threaded connectors, vacuum connections, clamping connectors, springs threaded connectors, or any similar corresponding pair of connectors.
In some embodiments, the module connectors may be directly incorporated into the bag module. As an illustrative example, the module connectors may be formed as a part of the main body section of the bag module as snap-fit connector, male-female, magnet or other connector embedded in the bag module. In some embodiments, the module connector may be a separate element that facilitates a connection between two bag modules by first attaching to one bag module and then attaching to a second bag module, with separate elements being rigid, semi-rigid or flexible. As an illustrative example, the module connector may be a connector ring or adapter that provides a structural link between two bag modules that might not otherwise be connectable. Such a module connector could be useful to ensure compatibility of connection between bag modules that have integrated connectors that would not otherwise be compatible with each other. As further illustrative example, the module connectors may be an elongated rubber or leather strap that connects the modules. In one embodiment, the module connectors will be formed on or configured to attach to an end point of the bag module. In an alternate embodiment, the module connection may be formed on or configured to attach to the side wall of the bag module. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are many suitable designs and arrangements for a module connector, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such design.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, each bag module of the modular bag may function independently of any other bag module. In one embodiment, each bag module may connect with a module securing element that is separate from the module connector. In this embodiment, a module securing element, such a securing strap, could be used to secure separate modules together in stacked, side-by-side, and other configurations that do not rely on an end-to-end connection between bag modules.
According to some embodiments of the present invention a two bag module may connect to each other via a detachable connection. In one embodiment, the detachable connection created between the connector of one bag module and the connector of another bag module will make the second bag module become aligned with and connected in line with the longitudinal axis the first bag module. In alternate embodiments, the detachable connection could be used to align and connect the second bag module with any suitable axis of the first bag module. In some embodiments, the detachable connection is an indirect connection formed by a module linking connector. The module linking connector may be a linking bar, solid connector unit, or another bag module that facilitates a connection between two bag modules. The module linking connector may be straight, curved, angled, irregularly shaped, or of any shape required to facilitate the connection. In some embodiments, the detachable connection may be formed by securely abutting a second bag module against a first bag module such that the second bag module is extensive with the primary axis of the first bag module. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are many possible arrangements and configurations for a detachable connection, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such arrangement or configuration.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the modular travel bag may incorporate a telescoping functionality to collapse one or more bag modules into a more compact form factor. In one embodiment, one or more of the bag modules may be configured with a telescoping function. In one embodiment, the telescoping function would allow multiple separate bag modules to collapse or slide inside of each other to reduce the number of bag modules or the overall size of the entire modular bag. As an illustrative example, a modular bag with three separate bag modules may be collapsible into the size of single bag module. In another embodiment, the telescoping functionality could be used to provide a modular bag or single bag module that is adaptable in size. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are a number of benefits to incorporating a telescoping functionality into the modular bag or bag modules, and embodiments of the present invention may be configured to take advantage of any such benefit.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, each bag module may be configured to collapse into a smaller form factor. In one embodiment, an individual bag module may be configured with a shell or main body side walls that are telescoping. In another embodiment, an individual bag may be configured with a shell or main body side wall that has an accordion-like shell or main body side walls that permits the shell or main body to be compressed or reshaped. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous ways to configure a bag module to be collapsible, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such configuration.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a bag module may include an attachment accessory such as a carrying element. In one embodiment, a carrying element could be any feature that could help a user carry, lift, or hold a bag module or the modular bag. In this embodiment carrying elements might include, but are not limited to, handles, handle straps, collapsible pull handles, shoulder straps, back-pack straps, bandoliers, cords, grips, hooks, and similar elements and such carrying elements could be fixed or adjustable. In some embodiments, the carrying element may be incorporated directly into the main body portion of a bag module. As an illustrative example, a carrying handle could be formed in or on the bag module. In some embodiments, the carrying element may be reversibly attachable to a bag module by attaching at an accessory attachment point that is formed in or on a bag module. The accessory attachment point might also be a component that is separately attached to a bag module, for example as a part of a module connector that is a detachable adapter as discussed above. In some embodiments, the accessory attachment point may be configured on the carrying element, for example a shoulder strap that has clip on each end. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are many ways of to attach or incorporate a carrying element on a bag module, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such carrying element.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a bag module may include an attachment accessory such as wheels or similar rolling device to move the modular bag. In one embodiment, the wheels could be any element to facilitate the rolling of the modular bag. In some embodiments, the wheels may be incorporated into the main body portion of one or more of the bag modules. In some embodiments the wheels may attach to a bag module at an accessory attachment point. In some embodiments the wheels may be a part of a frame to which the modular bag attaches. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are many possible solutions for adding wheels to a modular bag or bag module, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such solution.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a bag module may include an attachment accessory such as a hanger element. In one embodiment, the hanger element may be a hook or hanger that attaches to a bag module or garment rolling device. In some embodiments, the hanger element may attach to an accessory attachment point on a bag module, thereby allowing the bag module or modular bag to be suspended, such as on hanger bar in closet. In some embodiments, the hanger element may attach to a garment rolling sheet, thereby permitting the hanger element to function as a garment rolling device that can be suspended from a hanger bar in a closest or the hook of a coat rack. In some embodiments, the hanger element may be configured with a bottle or can opener feature. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are many suitable configurations for a hanger element, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated to take advantage of any such configuration
According to some embodiments of the present invention, an attachment accessory, such as a carrying element, will be connected to a bag module at an accessory attachment point. In one embodiment, the accessory attachment point is a connector on the bag module to which one of the attachment accessories can connect. In some embodiments, the accessory attachment point may create a permanent connection with the attachment accessory, while in other embodiments the accessory attachment point facilitates a reversible connection with the attachment accessory. In some embodiments, the accessory attachment point may be formed as part of the bag module itself, while in other embodiments the accessory attachment point will be added via another component that is attached to the bag module. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate there are numerous suitable arrangements and designs for an accessory attachment point, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with such arrangement or design.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a bag module may include a supplemental storage compartment that is attached the outer side wall of the bag module. In one embodiment, the supplemental storage compartment provides additional storage capacity beyond what is included in the interior of the bag module. In some embodiments, the supplemental storage compartment may be reversibly connectable to the bag module, while in other embodiments of supplemental storage compartment is permanently fixed to the bag module. In some embodiments, a bag module may include both permanent and removable supplemental storage compartments. In this embodiment, the supplemental storage compartment may connect away from the ends of the bag module. In some embodiments, the supplemental storage compartment may connect at the ends of the bag module. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate there are many possible configurations for a supplemental storage compartment, and embodiments of present invention are configured for use with any such supplemental storage compartment.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, one or more of the bag modules may be a power module. In one embodiment, possible power modules could include, but are not limited to batteries, photovoltaic chargers, piezoelectric or kinetic chargers, or any other portable energy device or similar power source that could be used to power electrical components of the modular bag or to charge a user's electronic devices. As an illustrative example, the power module could be used to power lights, speakers, digital screens or other electrical components that are incorporated into the modular bag. Similarly, the power module could be used to charge or provide power to external devices such as mobile computing devices, portable hair dryers, electric razor, or other electrical devices. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that a power module would have numerous possible uses and benefits, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated to take advantage of any such possible use or benefit.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, one or more of the bag modules may be an electronic or digital module. In one embodiment, the electronic module may be a speaker for connecting to external or internal audio devices, a media player, a GPS geolocation device, a digital screen, or an electronic ink display. As an illustrative example, the electronic module could be used to provide a mobile multi-media platform for presentations via various connected display screens and speakers. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that a power module would have numerous possible uses and benefits, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated to take advantage of any such possible use or benefit.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the modular and bag modules may incorporate various supplemental features to that give the modular bag additional utility. For example, in some embodiments a bag module may be configured with a series of dividers to provide an organizational system within the bag module. In some embodiments, the bag modules may include endcaps that are adapted to connect at open end points on the bag module, thereby closing off an otherwise open end of the bag module. In some embodiments, each of the bag modules of the modular bag may be connected to each other by cords to prevent one bag module from becoming lost from the other bag modules when the modular bag is disassembled. In some embodiments, the modular bag may include a module securing element, such as a strap or band of material, that is use to stack bag modules side-by-side or atop each other or strap bag modules to other pieces of luggage. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate there are many optional components that might be used with the modular bag, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such option components.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a bag module may include a garment rolling device or garment rolling guide. In one embodiment, a garment rolling device may be cylindrical guide rail or bar, such as a garment rolling bar, around which a garment could be wrapped. In another embodiment, the garment rolling device may be a sheet or layer of material, such as a garment rolling sheet, on which a garment is arranged and then rolled-up in. In some embodiments, the garment rolling sheet may be rectangular and in other it may be shaped like the garment to be rolled-up in the layer of material. As an illustrative example, the garment rolling sheet could be shaped like a jacket or shirt, with extension to support the arms of the jacket or shirt. In some embodiments, the garment rolling sheet may have a cut-out so that pants or other items could be inserted through the cutout before being rolled-up. In some embodiments, the garment rolling sheet may also be configured with folding lines to help facilitate folding of items that are too large for the garment rolling sheet. In another embodiment, the garment rolling device is a garment rolling sheet that is attached to a garment rolling bar, whereby the garment rolling bar could be used to help roll a garment up within the garment rolling sheet. In some embodiments, the garment rolling bar could be at the end of the garment rolling sheet from which the user would start to roll-up the garment to facilitate an even roll. In some embodiments, there may be two garment rolling bars so that the garment could be pinched between the two garment rolling bars to help keep the garment in place while it is rolled-up. In some embodiments, the garment rolling bar could be configured with a hanger element, so that the garment rolling device could be used to suspend garments from a clothing rack. In some embodiments, the garment rolling device may be permanently attached to the bag module, while in other embodiments the garment rolling device is reversibly connected to the bag module. In some embodiments, the garment rolling device may also include a hook-and-loop strip or a tie string that is used to secure the garment rolling device in a rolled-up configuration. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are many suitable designs for a garment rolling device, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any such design. Additionally, it would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the garment rolling device could be used to carry other items such as drawings, rolled documents, and other similar items without departing from spirit and scope of the invention
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the garment rolling sheet is flexible to permit the rolling of garments or other items place on the garment rolling sheet. In one embodiment, the garment rolling sheet is continuously bendable in at least the primary rolling direction. In some embodiments, the garment rolling sheet may also comprise a plurality of bending lines arranged perpendicularly to the primary rolling direction, which facilitates a segmented construction of the garment rolling sheet. In some embodiments, the garment rolling sheet can be automatically rolled-up or stretched, in a fashion that is similar to projection screens or window shades. In some embodiments, the garment rolling sheet may also comprise a covering sheet, thereby permitting a garment or other item to be placed between the covering sheet and the garment rolling sheet so that the garment or other item is protected on both sides.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a garment rolling device is configured to be placed inside of the shell of a bag module. In one embodiment, the garment rolling device may comprise a garment rolling sheet that is a substantially rectangular, flat sheet of thin, light, and flexible material upon which garments or other items could be placed to be rolled-up into a compact tubular form. In this embodiment, the garment rolling device comprises a rolling guide that may act as a clipping device or garment fastening element that is formed by two or more rigid, semi-rigid or bendable rods that are connected in a manner so to permit the rods to be separable, thereby allowing a garment to be firmly secured between the rods when the rods are realigned or reconnected. This relationship may be referred to as the clipping effect. In this embodiment, the rods also function to help initiate the rolling process, as the clipping effect created between the rods keeps the garment from moving during the rolling process. Additionally, the rods provide a larger initial rolling radius that helps reduce the risk for wrinkles. Finally, the rods also push the garment while rolling, thereby creating slight ironing effect. In some embodiments, the garment rolling device may include lateral tabs at the ends of the clipping device. In this embodiment, the tabs are used to provide end-walls that close-off the otherwise open end points of a bag module. In some embodiments, these lateral tabs may have pulls cords or handles on the outer portion of the lateral tabs to allow the garment rolling device to be pulled out of and pushed into the shell of the bag module. In one embodiment, the rods that form the clipping devise are made of fabric, dense foam, cardboard, plastic, light metal, composites, aerogels or any combination of them.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a garment rolling device is configured to be placed inside of the shell of a bag module. In one embodiment, the garment rolling device may comprise a garment rolling sheet that is a substantially rectangular, flat sheet of thin, light, and flexible material upon which garments or other items could be placed to be rolled-up into a compact tubular form. In this embodiment, the garment rolling device also comprises one rigid or semi-rigid rod at one end of the sheet, which has a length that is greater than or equal to the width of the sheet. The one rigid or semi-rigid rod provides a larger rolling radius that helps reduce the occurrence of wrinkles. In some embodiments, the garment rolling device may include lateral tabs at the ends of each side of the sheet, which are connected to the one rod at that end of the sheet. In this embodiment, the tabs are used to provide end-walls that close-off the otherwise open end points of a bag module. In some embodiments, the garment rolling device may also include a hook-and-loop strip or a tie string that is used to secure the garment rolling device in a rolled-up configuration. In some embodiments, these lateral tabs may have pulls cords or handles on the outer portion of the lateral tabs to allow the garment rolling device to be pulled out of and pushed into the shell of the bag module.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a garment rolling device may include a clipping device element that secures the garment during the rolling process and that can be placed inside of the shell of a bag module. In one embodiment, the clipping device element could be one or more clips or claps. In another embodiment, the clipping device element may comprise two or more bars that are separable so that a garment can be secured between the two bars when the two bars are place stacked together. In any embodiment, the clipping device element enables the garments to be rolled more easily, thereby reducing the time required for rolling the garment. In particular, the clipping device element prevents the garment from moving around during rolling, which helps to eliminate the wrinkles that can be caused by the undesired shifting of the garment within the garment rolling sheet. In one embodiment, the clipping device will be connected to a rolling sheet of the garment rolling device. In another embodiment, the clipping device will be separate and independent from a rolling sheet of the garment rolling device. In one embodiment, the bars that form the clipping devise are made of fabric, dense foam, cardboard, plastic, light metal, composites, aerogels or any combination of them.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a garment rolling device may comprise a hanger element that can be place inside of the shell of a bag module. In one embodiment, the hanger element comprises a first hanger bar, a second hanger bar, and a hook. In this embodiment, the first hanger bar may be a rigid or semi-rigid bar that has the length of a traditional hanger. In another embodiment, the first hanger bar may be bendable. The first hanger bar may include clips that are fully or partially embedded in the hanger bar. These clips can be used to clip pants to the first hanger bar or be used to clip onto a separate garment rolling sheet, thereby allowing the first hanger bar to function as a garment rolling guide bar. In this embodiment, the second hanger bar may be a rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible bar that is shorter than and connected to the first hanger bar by a connector sheet that may be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible. The second hanger bar may be configured to align near the collar of a blazer, thereby providing resistance and strength to the blazer before rolling and further minimizing wrinkles to the garment. In this embodiment, the hook attaches to one of the hanger bars to permit the hanger bar to be suspended in a closet or on a hook of a coat rack. The hook is preferably removable, so as to allow an easier rolling process and to prevent any possible damage to the garment by the hook. In one embodiment, the bars that form the hanger device are made of fabric, dense foam, cardboard, plastic, light metal, composites, aerogels or any combination of them.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the garment rolling device or garment rolling guide can reduce wrinkles in suits by separating the rolled suit jacket from the rolled suit pant, which, most importantly, allows for both pieces of the suit to be rolled into a small diameter form factor. In one embodiment, this strategy together with the bag modules discussed above, facilitates connecting a number of bag modules, each of which may contain rolled garments, in end-to-end configuration, thereby creating a long, thin tube-like solution that provides an easy and comfortable way to carry the combined suit bag, similarly to the way large poster tubes are carried.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a bag module may be configured as a garment bag. In one embodiment, the garment bag is comprised of a non-flexible tube-like shell that has a diameter in the range of 9 to 20 cm. The shell of the garment bag forms a storage cavity in which a rolled or furled garment or other rolled item can be stored. In particular, the bag module configured as a garment bag will be adapted to work with any of the garment rolling device discussed above. In this embodiment, the shell of the garment bag may have an access point formed at one or both ends of the garment bag module. In another embodiment, the garment bag may have an access point formed in the longitudinal axis of the shell wall. Additionally, it would be appreciate that any bag module that is configured as a garment bag could incorporate any of the features, functions, and designs previously discussed in relation to the bag module. For example a garment bag could be built from the same materials or be of any of the shapes discussed above in reference to a bag module to provide a tube-like shape. Furthermore, the garment bag could include any of the accessories that could be added to standard bag module, including but not limited to (i) fixed and adjustable holding elements such as holders, cords, grips, bandoliers, shoulder straps, backpack straps, hooks or retractable handles and (ii) supplemental storage compartments that are permanently fixed or removable.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, a primary function of the modular bag will be for use as a garment bag that will be capable of carrying, through the use of variously configured modules, hanging garments, such as blazers and pants, as well as other items a typical traveler would need including, but not limited to, clothing, footwear, undergarments, toiletries, and travel documents. In one embodiment, the modular bag is a versatile baggage solution capable of being arranged in a myriad of configurations, based on the needs of a user. As an illustrative example, the modular bag may be used for activities that include but, are not limited to, a weekend travel suitcase; a camping bag configured to carry an inflatable mattress and other outdoor items; a beach bag to carry towels, drinks, food, and other beach items; a gym bag with separate compartments for clean and wet or dirty items; a photographers bag to carry and protect cameras, lenses, mounts, and other accessories; portable multimedia system with speakers, projectors, and lights; musical instrument and accessory bag, particularly for flutes, clarinets and similar sized instruments; a mountaineering bag to carry clothes and drinks while trekking; or as portfolio bag to carry rolled documents or artwork in different compartments. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that the modular bag could be arranged in a myriad of configurations, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use in any such configuration.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, each module of the modular bag may be configured to carry different types of items. In one embodiment, module types may include, but are not limited to a blazer-holder module, a pants-holder module, a belt and accessories module, an undergarments module, a shoe module, an electronics module, a power source module, and a food and beverage module. In this embodiment, differently configured modules are then able to be connected in a myriad of different arrangements, as the module connectors on each of the modules allow for modules to be connected to each other. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that a bag module could be configured for nearly any type of item that could physically fit into a bag module, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with such bag module configuration.
According to some embodiments of the present invention, the multi-purpose modular travel bag is highly adaptable and can be arranged in a variety of sizes. In one embodiment, the modular travel bag can be easily reconfigured to comply with the carry-on size requirements of an airline. As an illustrative example, a modular bag allows a traveler to recombine the modules as needed while at the airport to meet the maximum carry-on dimensions of a particular airplane or airline. Moreover, in many cases, airlines allow thin and long elongated objects, like drawing tubes, to be carried as carry-on items even if the length of the item is longer than the maximum length of a traditional suitcase. As such, the modules of the modular bag could be arranged so that the bag is a long, thin tube that is acceptable as a carry-on item.
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According to an embodiment of the present invention, and in conjunction with embodiments of the multi-purpose modular travel container described herein, a method for rolling and storing articles of clothing in a multi-purpose modular travel container is provided. Turning to
At step 202, a garment rolling sheet of the multi-purpose modular travel container is laid flat and prepared for receipt of the article of clothing. While in one embodiment, the garment rolling sheet is lain flat, one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that the garment rolling sheet may not need to be laid completely flat and may be lain substantially flattened or some other semblance of flat. The important feature is that the garment rolling sheet be extended such that the article of clothing can be received thereupon.
At step 204, the article of clothing is laid flat on the garment rolling sheet. In some embodiments of the present invention, the garment rolling sheet may be matched or otherwise formed to fit with the particular article of clothing. For instance, a garment rolling sheet formed to receive articles of clothing, such as pants, can be substantially formed in a pant-like form (See,
After the article of clothing is lain on the garment rolling sheet, two optional steps may occur, either alone or in conjunction with another. First, at optional step 205, the article of clothing may be secured to the garment rolling sheet in order to prevent the article of clothing from slipping off, moving, or otherwise being separated from the garment rolling sheet during the rolling process. Attaching the article of clothing to the garment rolling sheet can be done in accordance with the elements described elsewhere herein.
At optional step 207, a rolling guide can be secured to the garment rolling sheet for use in ensuring the article of clothing is rolled appropriately during the rolling process. The rolling guide can be attached and utilized as described elsewhere herein (See,
At step 208, whether the previously described optional steps occur or not, the article of clothing and garment rolling sheet are rolled into a tight and well fit roll, preventing wrinkles and other deformations of the article of clothing, as described elsewhere herein. At step 210, the rolled article of clothing and garment rolling sheet are inserted into the bag module of the multi-purpose modular travel container (See,
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Each element in flowchart illustrations may depict a step, or group of steps, of one embodiment of the methods described herein. Further, each step may contain one or more sub-steps. For the purpose of illustration, these steps (as well as any and all other steps identified and described above) are presented in order. It will be understood that an embodiment can contain an alternate order of the steps adapted to a particular application of a technique disclosed herein. All such variations and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. The depiction and description of steps in any particular order is not intended to exclude embodiments having the steps in a different order, unless required by a particular application, explicitly stated, or otherwise clear from the context.
While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description. There may be aspects of this invention that may be practiced without the implementation of some features as they are described. It should be understood that some details have not been described in detail in order to not unnecessarily obscure focus of the invention. The invention is capable of myriad modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/454,255, filed Mar. 9, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/675,983, filed Apr. 1, 2015, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.
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