REPOSITIONABLE COMPARTMENT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure is related to carrying articles, such as articles of luggage and other articles, having a multi-position collapsible external compartment for carrying items therein.

BACKGROUND

Backpacks and other carrying articles often include external compartments. Documents that may be related to the present disclosure include:

U.S. Pat. No. 9,119,448 discloses carrying bags and backpacks with an expandable retainer. The bag includes a nylon mesh or other expansion type retainer sewn into the interior of the pocket which is closed by closing means such as a zipper. When the pocket is opened, the expansion retainer means can be unfolded and a large object such as a basketball, football, or objects such as wet clothes can be placed in the expansion retainer. The object within the expansion retainer is securely retained by a drawstring with a locking retainer to be sure the expansion retainer is closed and thereafter a clip or D-ring connects the top of the expansion retainer to a portion of the gym bag or backpack. The expansion retainer is made of an expandable material.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,890,809 discloses a carrying bag with a deployable bottle pouch. The bag includes a pocket that contains a pull-out bottle pouch that is movable between a stored position concealed within the pocket and a deployed position for supporting and carrying a conventional sports water bottle or the like. In the stored position, the pouch is collapsed to fit into the pocket.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and embodiments are directed to an improved carrying article, such as a backpack, having a collapsible compartment. In some embodiments, the collapsible compartment can be secured to an external surface of the carrying article. In some embodiments, the collapsible external compartment has a first end that is secured to a lower end of a body of the carrying article and a second end that can be secured to an upper end of the body of the carrying article to provide the collapsible external compartment. In some embodiments, the second end of collapsible external compartment can be tucked into a pocket of the carrying article in a first position and removed from the pocket and secured to the upper end of the body of the carrying article in a second position. With this arrangement, a deployable collapsible external compartment that can be stored in the pocket in the first position and provides an additional external compartment in the second position is provided. With this arrangement, in the second position, the deployable collapsible external compartment can have a height that is about the same height of the main body of the carrying article.

The carrying article can be for example, any of backpacks, briefcases, tote bags, pocketbooks, purses, messenger bags, duffel bags, sports equipment bags, suitcases including soft-shell luggage and hard-shell luggage, and other bags. According to one embodiment, the carrying article is an improved backpack.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure a carrying article comprises a body defining a main compartment, the body including a front exterior wall that in part defines the main compartment. The exterior wall has an upper end and a lower end. The main compartment has a first opening in the exterior wall, the first opening being secured by a fastener to allow a user to access the main compartment and to close the main compartment. The carrying article has a first pocket located at the lower end of the exterior wall of the main compartment. The first pocket has a first pocket wall and a first pocket opening. The carrying article has a collapsible external compartment having a first end and a second end. The first collapsible compartment has the first end being attached to the first pocket wall and the second end being free and configured to be tucked inside the first pocket opening. The collapsible external compartment is configured so that the collapsible external compartment is movable between a first position in which the collapsible external compartment is tucked within the first pocket and a second position in which the collapsible external compartment is accessible outside of the first pocket opening. The second end of the collapsible external compartment has at least one fastener configured to secure the second end of the collapsible external compartment to a front exterior wall of the main compartment near the upper end of the main compartment such that the collapsible external compartment provides an external compartment.

In some embodiments, the collapsible external compartment includes a compartment wall and a compartment opening, and wherein in the second position the compartment opening and substantially all of the compartment wall of the collapsible external compartment are positioned outside of the first pocket.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening is located near the second end of the collapsible external compartment.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening is located between the first end and second end of the collapsible external compartment.

In some embodiments, in the second position the collapsible external compartment is located adjacent the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first opening in the front exterior wall is accessible with the collapsible external compartment located in the second position.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener includes at least one of a button, a bolt, a snap, a clip, and a hook.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener includes at least one toggle button that can be received by at least one loop on the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the at least one toggle button includes two toggle buttons and the at least one loop includes two loops.

In some embodiments, the at least one loop is located on the exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener includes at least one clip that can be secured to a strap on the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first end of the collapsible external compartment is attached to the first pocket wall by stitching along at least a portion of the first end of the collapsible external compartment.

In some embodiments, the first pocket opening is secured by a first pocket fastener that is closeable and that provides access to the first pocket.

In some embodiments, the first pocket opening is secured by a zipper tape arrangement.

In some embodiments, the carrying article further comprises a rain cover that is configured to extend over at least the external compartment when the external compartment is in the second position.

In some embodiments, the carrying article further comprises a second pocket located towards a lower end of a rear exterior wall of the main compartment, the second pocket having a second pocket wall and a second pocket opening, the rain cover having a first end and second end being movable between a first position in which the second end of the rain cover is tucked within the second pocket and a second position in which the second end of the rain cover extends over at least the external compartment.

In some embodiments, the second end of the rain cover is configured to also extend over the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first end of the rain cover is attached to the second wall of the second pocket by stitching along at least a portion of the first end of the rain cover.

In some embodiments, the rain cover includes a rain cover retention means.

In some embodiments, the rain cover retention means includes an elastically stretchable cord.

In some embodiments, the carrying article further comprises a strap secured to the rain cover, the strap being configured to be fastened to a loop on an opposite lateral edge of the rain cover so that the strap and loop are adjacent a rear surface of the body of the carrying article to secure the rain cover in the second position.

In some embodiments, wherein the body of the carrying article comprises a first material, and wherein the collapsible external compartment comprises the first material, and wherein the first material comprises one of nylon, canvas, and leather.

In some embodiments, the body of the carrying article comprises a first material, and the collapsible external compartment comprises a second material. In some such embodiments, the first material comprises one of nylon, canvas, and leather. In some such embodiments, the second material is a solid material and comprises one of nylon, canvas, and leather.

In some embodiments, the carrying article is a backpack and further comprises at least one shoulder strap.

In some embodiments, the front exterior wall of the main compartment further comprises at least one additional zippered opening that is not covered by the collapsible external compartment positioned in the first position and that is covered by the collapsible external compartment positioned in the second position. In some embodiments, the collapsible external compartment in the second position is adjacent to and covers the additional zippered opening(s), but the additional zippered opening(s) are still accessible to a user.

In some embodiments, the front exterior wall of the main compartment further comprises at least one additional zippered opening that is not covered by the collapsible external compartment positioned in the first position and that is still accessible when the collapsible external compartment is positioned in the second position, the collapsible external compartment being adjacent the at least one additional zippered opening and extending vertically above the at least one additional zippered opening in the second position.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zippered opening includes a key leash.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zippered opening includes webbing configured to include pen loops.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zippered opening includes at least one additional internal zippered pocket.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zippered opening includes a tracking device.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a carrying article comprises a body, a first pocket a collapsible external pocket, and at least one fastener. The body defines a main compartment. The body includes a front exterior wall that in part defines the main compartment. The exterior wall has an upper end and a lower end. The main compartment has a first opening in the exterior wall. The first opening is secured by a fastener to allow a user to access the main compartment and to close the main compartment. The first pocket has a first pocket wall and a first pocket opening. A collapsible external compartment has a first end and a second end. The first end of the collapsible external compartment is attached to the first pocket wall and the second end of the collapsible external compartment is free and configured to be tucked inside the first pocket opening. The collapsible external compartment is configured so that the collapsible external compartment is movable between a first position in which the collapsible external compartment is tucked within the first pocket and a second position in which the collapsible external compartment is accessible outside of the first pocket opening. The at least one fastener is configured to secure the second end of the collapsible external compartment to the body of the carrying article such that the collapsible external compartment provides an external compartment.

In some embodiments, the first pocket is located at the lower end of the exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener is configured to secure the second end of the collapsible external compartment to the front exterior wall of the main compartment near the upper end of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening is located near the second end of the collapsible external compartment.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening is located between the first end and second end of the collapsible external compartment.

In some embodiments, in the second position the collapsible external compartment is located adjacent the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first opening in the front exterior wall is accessible with the collapsible external compartment located in the second position.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener includes a first fastener portion that includes at least one of a button, a bolt, a snap, a clip, and a hook.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener includes a first fastener portion that includes at least one toggle button that can be received by a second fastener portion that includes at least one loop on the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the at least one toggle button includes two toggle buttons and the at least one loop includes two loops.

In some embodiments, the at least one loop is located on the exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the at least one fastener includes at least one clip that can be secured to a strap on the front exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first pocket opening is secured by a first pocket fastener that is closeable and that provides access to the first pocket.

In some embodiments, the first pocket opening is secured by a zipper tape arrangement.

In some embodiments, the carrying article further comprises a rain cover that is configured to extend over at least the external compartment when the external compartment is in the second position.

In some embodiments, the carrying article further comprises a second pocket located towards a lower end of a rear exterior wall of the main compartment, the second pocket having a second pocket wall and a second pocket opening, the rain cover having a first end being attached to the second pocket wall and second end being movable between a first position in which the second end of the rain cover is tucked within the second pocket and a second position in which the second end of the rain cover extends over at least the external compartment.

In some embodiments, the second end of the rain cover is configured to also extend over the main compartment.

In some embodiments, the first end of the rain cover is attached to the second wall of the second pocket by stitching along at least a portion of the first end of the rain cover.

In some embodiments, the rain cover includes a rain cover retention means.

In some embodiments, the rain cover retention means includes an elastically stretchable cord.

In some embodiments, the body of the carrying article comprises a first material, and wherein the collapsible external compartment comprises the first material, and wherein the first material comprises one of nylon, canvas, and leather.

In some embodiments, the carrying article is a backpack and further comprises at least one shoulder strap.

In some embodiments, the front exterior wall of the main compartment further comprises at least one additional zippered opening that is not covered by the collapsible external compartment positioned in the first position and that is still accessible when the collapsible external compartment is positioned in the second position, the collapsible external compartment being adjacent the at least one additional zippered opening and extending vertically above the at least one additional zippered opening in the second position.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zippered opening includes a key leash.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zippered opening includes webbing configured to include pen loops.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zippered opening includes at least one additional internal zippered pocket.

In some embodiments, the at least one additional zippered opening includes a tracking device.

In some embodiments, the first pocket is located along a side of the exterior wall of the main compartment.

In some embodiments, each fastener of the at least one fastener includes a first fastener portion at the second end of the collapsible external compartment that is configured to engage a second fastener portion on the front exterior wall of the main compartment to secure the second end of the collapsible external compartment to the front exterior wall of the main compartment near an opposite side of the main compartment.

It is appreciated that any of the features of any of the embodiments can be used with any of the aspects and embodiments and it is understood that they can so be combined in any manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects of at least one embodiment are discussed below with reference to the accompanying figures. The figures are provided for the purposes of illustration and explanation and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the figures:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a backpack including a collapsible external compartment according to the present disclosure, with the collapsible external compartment stored in a first position;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the backpack of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the backpack of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the backpack of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the collapsible external compartment partially removed from a first pocket;

FIG. 6 is side view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the collapsible external compartment substantially deployed;

FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 illustrating a fastener of the collapsible external compartment;

FIG. 8 is another partial perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 illustrating the fastener of the collapsible external compartment secured to a front exterior wall of the backpack;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the collapsible external compartment completely deployed;

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the backpack of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with a rain cover partially deployed;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the rain cover partially covering the backpack;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the rain cover substantially covering the backpack;

FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the rain cover substantially covering the backpack;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the backpack of FIG. 1 with the collapsible external compartment completely deployed and the rain cover deployed;

FIG. 16 is cutaway front view of the backpack of FIG. 2;

FIGS. 17A-H is a set of views of another embodiment of a backpack according to the present disclosure; and

FIGS. 18A-C are views of an additional embodiment of a backpack according to the present disclosure.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS UTILIZED IN THE DRAWINGS

With regard to reference numerals used, the following numbering is used throughout the description and drawings. Where technical features in the figures or detailed description are followed by these reference numerals, the reference numerals have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the figures or detailed description. Accordingly, neither the reference numerals nor their absence is intended to have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim elements. In the figures, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every figure.

Reference numeral 10 refers to a carrying article;

Reference numeral 11 refers to two shoulder straps;

Reference numeral 12 refers to a body;

Reference numeral 13 refers to a main compartment;

Reference numeral 14 refers to a collapsible external compartment;

Reference numeral 15 refers to a bottom face;

Reference numeral 16 refers to a first pocket;

Reference numeral 18 refers to a front exterior wall;

Reference numeral 19 refers to a bottom wall;

Reference numeral 20 refers to an upper end;

Reference numeral 22 refers to a lower end;

Reference numeral 24 refers to a first opening in the exterior wall;

Reference numeral 26 refers to a zipper;

Reference numeral 30 refers to an additional zippered opening;

Reference numeral 40 refers to a key leash;

Reference numeral 42 refers to a webbing configured to include pen loops

Reference numeral 44 refers to a tracking device

Reference numeral 46 refers to a first pocket wall;

Reference numeral 48 refers to a first pocket opening;

Reference numeral 50 refers to a first pocket fastener;

Reference numeral 52 refers to a first end of the collapsible external compartment;

Reference numeral 54 refers a second end of the collapsible external compartment

Reference numeral 60 refers to a compartment wall;

Reference numeral 61 refers to a bottom wall of the collapsible external compartment;

Reference numeral 62 refers a compartment opening;

Reference numeral 63 refers to a fastener;

Reference numeral 64A refers to a first fastener portion;

Reference numeral 64B refers to another first fastener portion;

Reference numeral 66A refers to a second fastener portion;

Reference numeral 66B refers to another second fastener portion;

Reference numeral 67 refers to a rear surface of the collapsible external compartment;

Reference numeral 70 refers to a rain cover;

Reference numeral 71 refers to a rear surface of the body;

Reference numeral 72 refers to a second pocket;

Reference numeral 74 refers to a second pocket wall;

Reference numeral 76 refers to a second pocket opening;

Reference numeral 78 refers to a first end of the rain cover;

Reference numeral 79 refers to a portion of the rain cover that is attached to the second pocket wall;

Reference numeral 80 refers to a second end of the rain cover;

Reference numeral 82 refers to a channel for an elastically stretchable cord;

Reference numeral 84 refers to a strap;

Reference numeral 86 refers to a loop;

Reference numeral 100 refers to a carrying article;

Reference numeral 200 refers to a carrying article;

Reference numeral 211 refers to straps;

Reference numeral 212 refers to a body;

Reference numeral 213 refers to a main compartment;

Reference numeral 214 refers to a collapsible external compartment;

Reference numeral 215 refers to a bottom face;

Reference numeral 216 refers to a first pocket;

Reference numeral 218 refers to a front exterior wall;

Reference numeral 219 refers to a bottom wall;

Reference numeral 220 refers to an upper end;

Reference numeral 222 refers to a lower end;

Reference numeral 224 refers to a first opening in the exterior wall;

Reference numeral 226 refers to a zipper;

Reference numeral 248 refers to a first pocket opening;

Reference numeral 250 refers to a first pocket fastener;

Reference numeral 252 refers to a first end;

Reference numeral 254 refers to a second end;

Reference numeral 260 refers to a compartment wall;

Reference numeral 262 refers to a compartment opening;

Reference numeral 263 refers to a fastener;

Reference numeral 264 refers to hooks; and

Reference numeral 266 refers to loops.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects and embodiments are directed to an improved carrying article, such as a backpack, having a collapsible external compartment. In some embodiments, the collapsible external compartment can be secured to an external surface of the carrying article. In some embodiments, the collapsible external compartment has a first end that is secured to a lower end of a body of the carrying article and a second end that can be secured to an upper end of the body of the carrying article to provide the collapsible external compartment. In some embodiments, the second end of collapsible external compartment can be tucked into a pocket of the carrying article in a first position and removed from the pocket and secured to the upper end of the body of the carrying article in a second position. With this arrangement, a deployable collapsible external compartment that can be stored in a pocket in a first position and provides an additional external compartment in a second position is provided. With this arrangement, in the second position, the deployable collapsible external compartment will have a height that is about the same height of the main body of the carrying article.

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, they are intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as disclosed. It is appreciated that any of the features of any of the embodiments can be used with any of the aspects and embodiments and it is understood that they can so be combined in any manner. Nothing herein should be construed to require any feature to be restricted to any combination of features.

One exemplary embodiment of a carrying article 10 of the present disclosure is illustrated in FIGS. 1-16. FIGS. 1-4, illustrate perspective, front, side and bottom views of an exemplary embodiment of the carrying article with the collapsible external compartment stored in a first position. The carrying article 10 comprises a body 12 defining a main compartment 13 (shown in FIG. 16), and a first pocket 16 for stowing a collapsible external compartment 14 when the collapsible external compartment is not in use. The body 12 of the carrying article 10 includes a front exterior wall 18 that in part defines the main compartment. The main compartment includes a bottom wall 19 for supporting items within the main compartment, as shown in the cutaway of FIG. 16. The exterior wall 18 has an upper end 20 and a lower end 22. The upper end 20 is located at the upper end of the body, and the lower end 22 is located at the lower end of the body, adjacent a bottom face 15 of the body. To allow a user to access the main compartment, the main compartment has a first opening 24 in the exterior wall 18. The first opening 24 is secured by a fastener, such as a zipper 26, to allow a user to access the main compartment and to close the main compartment. It is appreciated that any fastener that is customary in the industry can be used. According to aspects and embodiments, the carrying article 10 is a backpack. The backpack includes two shoulder straps 11.

The first pocket 16 for storing the collapsible expandable compartment 14 is defined in the body 12 of the carrying article 10 below the main compartment. The first pocket 16 is located at or near the lower end 22 of the exterior wall 18 of the main compartment. As shown in FIG. 5, the first pocket 16 has a first pocket wall 46 and a first pocket opening 48. The first pocket 16 has a first pocket volume that is sufficient to store collapsible external compartment 14 within the first pocket. The first pocket opening 48 is secured by a first pocket fastener 50 that is closeable and that provides access to the first pocket. The first pocket fastener 50 shown in the figures is a zipper tape arrangement, however, it is appreciated that any fastener that is customary in the industry can be used.

The collapsible external compartment 14 allows a user to increase the carrying volume of the carrying article. When a user wishes to carry a first item or a first set of items having a volume that is less than the volume of the main compartment, the user can carry the first item or first set of items within the main compartment of the carrying article. When a user wishes to carry a second item or second set of items having a second volume that is greater than a remaining volume of the main compartment (when the user is carrying the first item or first set of items in the main compartment), the user can deploy the collapsible external compartment 14 to increase the carrying volume of the carrying article.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, and 9-10, FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the backpack with the collapsible external compartment 14 partially removed from a first pocket. FIG. 6 illustrates a side view, FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view, and FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom view of the backpack with the collapsible external compartment 14 substantially deployed. When a user wishes to use the collapsible external compartment 14 to carry items, the user opens the first pocket 16, and pulls the collapsible external compartment 14 out of the first pocket 16 (See FIG. 5). The collapsible external compartment 14 has a first end 52 and a second end 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 52 of the collapsible external compartment 14 is attached to the first pocket wall 46. For example, the first end 52 of the collapsible external compartment 14 is attached to the first pocket wall 46 by stitching along at least a portion of the first end 52 of the collapsible external compartment. It is appreciated that the first end 52 of the collapsible external compartment 14 can be fastened to the first pocket wall 46 with any means that is customary. In some embodiments, the first end 52 of the collapsible external compartment is permanently secured to the body 12, and the second end of the collapsible external compartment may be removably secured to the body 12. It is also appreciated that the first end of collapsible external compartment need not be fastened to the first pocket wall 46. The second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment 14 is free and is configured to be tucked inside the first pocket opening 48.

The collapsible external compartment 14 has a compartment wall 60 and a compartment opening 62 that provides access to the collapsible external compartment 14. The compartment opening 62 of the collapsible compartment 14 is located between the first end 52 and second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment. The collapsible external compartment 14 is configured so that the collapsible external compartment 14 is movable between a first position in which the collapsible external compartment is tucked within the first pocket opening 48 and a second position in which the second end 54 of collapsible external compartment 14 is accessible outside of the first pocket opening 48. In a first position, the collapsible external compartment is stored in the first pocket 16 of carrying article. In the second position, the compartment opening 62 and substantially all of the compartment wall 60 of the collapsible external compartment 14 are positioned outside of the first pocket 16. In the second position, the user pulls the second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment out of the first pocket 16 and secures the second (free) end 54 of the collapsible external compartment to the main body of the carrying article, as described in more detail herein.

Referring to FIGS. 7-8, FIGS. 7-8 are a partial perspective view of the backpack illustrating steps of fasteners 63 being fastened so the collapsible external compartment 14 is preferably secured to a front exterior wall of the backpack. In some embodiments, each of the one or more fasteners includes a first fastener portion 64A, 64B and a second fastener portion 66A, 66B. In some embodiments, the first fastener portion 64A, 64B is secured to the collapsible external compartment 14 and the second fastener portion 66A, 66B is secured to the body of the carrying article. In some embodiments, one or more first fastener portions 64A, 64B include one or more buttons, one or more bolts, one or more snaps, one or more clips, one or more hooks, and/or one or more hook and loop fastener portions, or any other fastener known to one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, one or more second fastener portions 66A, 66B include fastener portions configured to mate with respective first fastener portions, including, for example, one or more loops, one or more snap receivers, one or more straps and/or one or more hook and loop fastener portions. In, the second position, the second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment 14 is preferably secured to the front exterior wall 18 of the main compartment. To secure the second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment 14 to the front exterior wall 18 of the main compartment of the carrying article 10, the second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment 14 has two first fastener portions 64A, 64B and second fastener portions 66A, 66B secured to the front exterior wall 18 of the main compartment. In particular, the fasteners 63 are configured to secure the second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment 14 to the external surface 18 of the carrying article 10 near the upper end 20 of the front exterior wall 18 of the main compartment such that the collapsible external compartment 14 when secured to the main compartment in the second position provides an external compartment that is accessible to a user.

In the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners 63 include first fastener portions 64A, 64B that are toggle buttons that are received by respective second faster portions 66A, 66B that are loops on the exterior wall 18 of the body 12. In particular, FIGS. 7-9 show a first toggle button 64A and a second toggle button 64B that are securable in a first loop 66A and a second loop 66B, respectively. In a preferred embodiment, the first loop 66A and the second loop 66B are located on the front exterior wall 18, towards upper corners of the body 12.

In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners 63 include a first fastener portion 64A, 64B that includes at least one clip that can be secured, for example, to a strap on the exterior wall 18 of the main compartment. In one or more embodiments, the second fastener portion 66A, 66B includes a loop in a strap secured to the body of the carrying article.

In some embodiments, the loops are formed as strips of material. In some embodiments, the loops are formed of strips of material that are between 20 millimeters and 40 millimeters wide. In an embodiment, the strips of material are 38 millimeters wide. In an embodiment, the strips of material are 25 millimeters wide. In some embodiments, the strips are formed of webbing.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening 62 of the collapsible external compartment 14 is located closer to the second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment than the first end 52 (See FIG. 9). In other embodiments, the compartment opening 62 can be about midway between the first end 52 and the second end 54. In some embodiments, the compartment opening 62 is substantially horizontal (See FIG. 9) when the external collapsible compartment 14 is in the second position. In some embodiments, the compartment opening 62 is along a diagonal between the first end 52 and the second end 54 when the external collapsible compartment 14 is in the second position. It is appreciated that the compartment opening 62 can be anywhere between the first end 52 and the second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment 14.

According to aspects and embodiments, when the collapsible external compartment 14 is in the second position, a bottom wall 61 of the collapsible external compartment 14 has a bottom face that is substantially flush with the bottom face 15 of the body. According to aspects and embodiments, when the collapsible external compartment 14 is in the second position, a rear surface 67 of the wall 60 of the collapsible external compartment 14 is located adjacent the exterior wall 18 of the main compartment. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the collapsible external compartment 14 does not prevent a user from accessing the main compartment when the collapsible external compartment is deployed in the second position. The first opening 24 in the main compartment remains accessible with the collapsible external compartment 14 located in the second position, as shown in FIG. 9.

One advantage of the collapsible external compartment is that the collapsible external compartment enables a user to carry different volumes of items at different times. For example, a user could commute to work with a first set of items in the main compartment. Then the user could go shopping after work and carry items purchased on the shopping trip in the collapsible external compartment. For example, the user could carry groceries in one or both of the main compartment and the collapsible external compartment.

The operation of the carrying article of the present disclosure is now explained with reference to FIGS. 1-4. FIGS. 1-4 show the backpack 10 with the collapsible external compartment 14 in a first position in which the collapsible external compartment 14 is concealed within the first pocket 16. When a user wishes to expand the carrying volume of the backpack 10, the user removes the collapsible external compartment 14 from the first pocket 16, as shown in FIG. 5. The user pulls the second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment 14 towards the upper end 20 of the front exterior wall 18 of the body 12, as shown in FIG. 6. The second end 54 of the collapsible external compartment 14 is secured to the front exterior wall 18 of the main body 12 at an upper end 20 of the front exterior wall.

Then the fasteners 63 can be fastened (first and second toggle buttons 64A, 64B can be inserted in the loops 66A, 66B), as shown in FIGS. 7-9. With the toggle buttons 64A, 64B secured in the loops 66A, 66B, the collapsible external compartment 14 is configured to retain the second item or second set of items. With this arrangement, the collapsible external compartment preferably has a height that is substantially similar to the height of the body 12 of the carrying article 10. With this arrangement, the rear surface 67 of the collapsible external compartment extends along and is adjacent a front surface 18 of the body 12. It is also appreciated that the collapsible external compartment can be configured with different lengths (heights) and can be configured to attach to the body of the carrying article at various locations to provide various carrying volumes of the collapsible external compartment.

Referring to FIG. 10, a bottom view of the carrying article 10 with the collapsible external compartment 14 deployed is illustrated. The bottom view shows the collapsible external compartment 14 has a lateral width that is substantially similar to the lateral width of the body 12 of the carrying article 10 when the collapsible external compartment 14 is in the second position. However, it is appreciated that the collapsible external compartment can have a lateral width that is less than the width of the carrying article 10.

Aspects and embodiments of the carrying article can include a deployable rain cover 70. Referring to FIGS. 11-15, FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of the carrying article with the rain cover 70 partially deployed. FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the carrying article with the rain cover partially covering the backpack. FIG. 13 is a front perspective view and FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the carrying article with the rain cover substantially covering the backpack with the collapsible external compartment stored in the first position. FIG. 15 is a side view of the carrying article with the collapsible external compartment completely deployed in the second position and the rain cover deployed.

To shield the carrying article including the main compartment and the external compartment 14, as well as other portions of the carrying article 10, from rain and the elements, aspects and embodiments of the carrying article 10 include the deployable rain cover 70. The rain cover can be stored in a second pocket 72. According to some embodiments, the second pocket 72 can be located below the first pocket 16. Referring to FIG. 11, the second pocket 72 is illustrated as being located at the lower end of the body of the carrying article 10. According to aspects and embodiments, the second pocket 72 can be located at the lower end of a rear exterior wall of the main compartment. According to aspects and embodiments, the second pocket can be located at the lower end of the front exterior wall 18 of the main compartment. It is appreciated that the second compartment can also be included in the bottom face 15 of the body 12 of the carrying article 10.

When not in use, the rain cover 70 is stored in the second pocket 72 of the carrying article 10. The second pocket 72 has a second pocket wall 74 and a second pocket opening 76. The rain cover has a first end 78 and a second end 80. In some embodiments the rain cover is not attached to the second pocket and can be completely removed from the second pocket to be used. Alternatively, according to aspects and embodiments, the first end 78 has a portion 79 that is attached to the second pocket wall 74, for example by stitching along at least a portion of the portion 79 that is located at the first end of the rain cover or by a strap. The portion 79 may be made of an elastically stretchable material to facilitate wrapping the rain cover 70 over both the body 12 and the collapsible external compartment 14 when the collapsible external compartment 14 is in the second position. In some embodiments, the portion 79 is an elastically stretchable strip of material. The second end 80 of rain cover is a free end. The second end 80 is movable between a first position in which the second end 80 of the rain cover 70 is tucked within the second pocket 72 and a second position in which the second end 80 of the rain cover 70 extends through the second pocket opening 76 and can extend over at least the collapsible external compartment 14.

The rain cover 70 is configured to have sufficient size and volume to extend over the collapsible external compartment 14 when the collapsible external compartment 14 is in the second position. According to aspects and embodiments, the rain cover 70 is configured in size and volume to extend over the collapsible external compartment 14 and at least portion of the body 12 of the carrying article 10. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the rain cover 70 extends over the top of the collapsible external compartment 14 and the body 12 so that the collapsible external compartment opening 62 of the collapsible external compartment 14 and the first opening 24 of the body 12 are covered by the rain cover 70.

To secure the rain cover 70 over the collapsible external compartment 14, the rain cover includes a rain cover retention means. According to aspect and embodiments, the rain cover retention means includes an elastically stretchable cord within a channel 82, as shown in FIG. 14. To further secure the rain cover 70 over the collapsible external compartment, the carrying article includes a strap 84 that is secured to the rain cover 70. The strap 84 is configured to be fastened to a loop 86 on an opposite lateral edge of the rain cover so that the strap and loop are adjacent a rear surface 71 of the body 12 of the carrying article 10 to secure the rain cover 70 in the second position.

When a user wishes to cover and protect at least a portion of the body 12, the user deploys the rain cover 70. FIGS. 11-14 show steps of deploying the rain cover 70 when the collapsible external compartment 14 is not deployed. FIG. 11 shows the rain cover 70 being removed from the second pocket 72 that is located at the lower end of the body 12. FIGS. 12 and 13 show subsequent steps of extending a second end 80 of the rain cover 70 over the upper end 20 of the front exterior wall 18 of the body 12. FIG. 14 shows a rear perspective view of backpack of FIG. 12 with the rain cover completely deployed and covering the main compartment of the carrying article 10. The rain cover 70 can also be deployed to cover at last a portion of the body 12 of the carrying article 10 and to cover the collapsible external compartment 14 with the collapsible external compartment 14 fully deployed, as shown in FIG. 15.

Referring to FIG. 16, there is illustrated a cutaway front view of the carrying article. According to aspects and embodiments, the front exterior wall 18 of the main compartment further comprises at least one additional zippered opening 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the front exterior wall includes two zippered openings 30. In some embodiments, one or more of the additional zippered openings may include a key leash 40, as shown in FIG. 16. In some embodiments, one or more of the additional zippered openings 30 may include webbing 42 configured to include pen loops. In some embodiments, one or more of the additional zippered openings 30 may include at least one additional internal zippered pocket. In some embodiments, one or more of the additional zippered openings may include a tracking device 44. It is understood that in the illustrated embodiment, each zippered opening 30 is not covered by the collapsible external compartment 14 when the collapsible external compartment 14 is stored in the first position, as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, each zippered opening 30 is covered by the collapsible external compartment 14 when the collapsible external compartment 14 is deployed in the second position. In some embodiments, each zippered opening 30 is not covered by the collapsible external compartment 14 when the collapsible external compartment 14 is deployed in the second position.

Each additional zippered opening 30, in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-16 is not covered by the collapsible external compartment positioned in the first position and is still accessible when the collapsible external compartment is positioned in the second position. The collapsible external compartment 14 is adjacent the at least one additional zippered opening 30 and extends vertically above each additional zippered opening 30 in the second position.

The carrying article may be made of various materials. In some embodiments, the body 12 of carrying article 10 comprises a first material and the collapsible external compartment 14 comprises the first material. In some embodiments, the first material comprises nylon, canvas, and/or leather. In some embodiments, the body 12 of carrying article 10 comprises a first material and the collapsible external compartment 14 comprises a second material. In some embodiments, the first material and the second material can be any of nylon, canvas, and/or leather.

In some embodiments, the second material is a solid material, such as nylon, canvas, leather, and or another material. In a preferred embodiment, the second material is a solid material so items being carried within the external compartment are not directly visible (e.g. the second material is not a netting).

Additional embodiments are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, FIGS. 17A through 17H is a set of views of another embodiment of a carrying article 100 according to the present disclosure in the form of a backpack, with like feature numbers indicating like features as in the embodiment 10 of FIG. 1. FIGS. 17A through 17G show external views of the carrying article 100. FIG. 17H shows a view of the main compartment 14 of the carrying article 100 with the first opening 24 opened.

FIGS. 18A-18C are views of an additional embodiment of a backpack according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 18A shows an exemplary embodiment of a carrying article 200 of the present disclosure. FIGS. 18B and 18C illustrate steps in securing an end of an external compartment to a body of the carrying article.

The carrying article 200 comprises a body 212 defining a main compartment 213 (shown in cutaway in FIG. 18A), and a first pocket 216 for stowing a collapsible external compartment 214 when the collapsible external compartment is not in use. The body 212 of the carrying article 200 includes a front exterior wall 218 that in part defines the main compartment. The main compartment includes a bottom wall 219 (shown in cutaway) for supporting items within the main compartment, as shown in the cutaway of FIG. 18A. The exterior wall 218 has an upper end 220 and a lower end 222. The upper end 220 is located at the upper end of the body 212, and the lower end 222 is located at the lower end of the body, adjacent a bottom face 215 of the body 212. To allow a user to access the main compartment, the main compartment has a first opening 224 in the exterior wall 218. The first opening 224 is secured by a fastener, such as a zipper 226, to allow a user to access the main compartment and to close the main compartment. It is appreciated that any fastener that is customary in the industry can be used. According to aspects and embodiments, the carrying article 200 is a backpack. The backpack includes two shoulder straps 211.

The first pocket 216 for storing the collapsible expandable compartment 214 is defined in the body 212 of the carrying article 200 near the lower end 222 of the exterior wall 218 of the main compartment. As shown in FIG. 18A, the first pocket 216 has a first pocket wall (not shown) and a first pocket opening 248. The first pocket 216 has a first pocket volume that is sufficient to store collapsible external compartment 214 within the first pocket. The first pocket opening 248 is secured by a first pocket fastener 250 that is closeable and that provides access to the first pocket. The first pocket fastener 250 shown in the figures is a zipper tape arrangement, however, it is appreciated that any fastener that is customary in the industry can be used.

The collapsible external compartment 214 allows a user to increase the carrying volume of the carrying article. When a user wishes to carry a first item or a first set of items having a volume that is less than the volume of the main compartment, the user can carry the first item or first set of items within the main compartment of the carrying article. When a user wishes to carry a second item or second set of items having a second volume that is greater than a remaining volume of the main compartment (when the user is carrying the first item or first set of items in the main compartment), the user can deploy the collapsible external compartment 14 to increase the carrying volume of the carrying article.

FIG. 18B shows the collapsible external compartment 214 extending from the first pocket 216, such as when a user is preparing to deploy or stow the collapsible external compartment 214. FIG. 18C illustrates a front perspective view with the collapsible external compartment 214 substantially deployed. When a user wishes to use the collapsible external compartment 14 to carry items, the user opens the first pocket 216, and pulls the collapsible external compartment 214 out of the first pocket 216 (See FIG. 18B). The collapsible external compartment 214 has a first end 252 and a second end 254. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 252 of the collapsible external compartment 214 is attached to the first pocket wall (not shown). For example, the first end 252 of the collapsible external compartment 214 is attached to the first pocket wall by stitching along at least a portion of the first end 252 of the collapsible external compartment. It is appreciated that the first end 252 of the collapsible external compartment 214 can be fastened to the first pocket wall with any means that is customary. In some embodiments, the first end 252 of the collapsible external compartment is permanently secured to the body 212, and the second end of the collapsible external compartment may be removably secured to the body 212. It is also appreciated that the first end of collapsible external compartment need not be fastened to the first pocket wall. The second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214 is free and is configured to be tucked inside the first pocket opening 248.

The collapsible external compartment 214 has a compartment wall 260 and a compartment opening 262 that provides access to the collapsible external compartment 214. The compartment opening 262 of the collapsible compartment 214 is located between the first end 252 and second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment. The collapsible external compartment 214 is configured so that the collapsible external compartment 214 is movable between a first position in which the collapsible external compartment is tucked within the first pocket opening 248 and a second position in which the second end 254 of collapsible external compartment 214 is accessible outside of the first pocket opening 248. In a first position, the collapsible external compartment is stored in the first pocket 16 of carrying article. In the second position, the compartment opening 262 and substantially all of the compartment wall 260 of the collapsible external compartment 214 are positioned outside of the first pocket 216. In the second position, the user pulls the second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment out of the first pocket 216 and secures the second (free) end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214 to the main body of the carrying article, as described in more detail herein.

FIGS. 18B and 18C are perspective views of the backpack illustrating a fastener 263 being fastened so the collapsible external compartment 214 is secured to a front exterior wall of the backpack. In the second position, the second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214 is secured to the front exterior wall 218 of the main compartment. To secure the second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214 to the front exterior wall 218 of the main compartment of the carrying article 200, the carrying article has two fasteners 263. In particular, the second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214 has two fasteners 263. In particular, the second end of the collapsible compartment includes first fastener portions that are configured to secure the second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214 to second fastener portions located on the external surface 218 of the carrying article 200 near the upper end 220 of the front exterior wall 218 of the main compartment, such that the collapsible external compartment 214 when secured to the main compartment in the second position provides an external compartment that is accessible to a user.

In some embodiments, each of the one or more fasteners includes a first fastener portion and a second fastener portion. In some embodiments, the first fastener portion is secured to the collapsible external compartment 214 and the second fastener portion is secured to the body of the carrying article. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners includes at least one first fastener portion that is a clip that can be secured to a second fastener portion that is a strap on the exterior wall 218 of the main compartment. In the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners 263 include first fastener portions that are hooks 264 that are received by respective second faster portions that are loops 266 on the exterior wall 218 of the body 212. In particular, FIGS. 18B and 18C shows a first hook 264 and a second hook 264 that are securable in a first loop 266 and a second loop 266, respectively. The first loop 266 and the second loop 266 are located on the front exterior wall 218, towards upper corners of the body 12.

In some embodiments, the compartment opening 262 of the collapsible external compartment 214 is located closer to the second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment than the first end 252. In other embodiments, the compartment opening 262 can be about midway between the first end 252 and the second end 254. In some embodiments, the compartment opening 262 is substantially horizontal when the external collapsible compartment 214 is in the second position. In some embodiments, the compartment opening 262 is along a diagonal between the first end 252 and the second end 254 when the external collapsible compartment 214 is in the second position, as shown in FIG. 18C. It is appreciated that the compartment opening 262 can be anywhere between the first end 252 and the second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214.

According to aspects and embodiments, when the collapsible external compartment 214 is in the second position, a rear surface of the wall 260 of the collapsible external compartment 214 is located adjacent the exterior wall 218 of the main compartment. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the collapsible external compartment 214 does not prevent a user from accessing the main compartment when the collapsible external compartment is deployed in the second position. The first opening 224 in the main compartment remains accessible with the collapsible external compartment 214 located in the second position, as shown in FIG. 18C.

The operation of the carrying article of the present disclosure is now explained with reference to FIG. 18A, which shows the backpack 200 with the collapsible external compartment 214 in a first position in which the collapsible external compartment 214 is concealed within the first pocket 216. When a user wishes to expand the carrying volume of the backpack 200, the user removes the collapsible external compartment 214 from the first pocket 216, as shown in FIG. 18B. The user pulls the second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214 towards the upper end 220 of the front exterior wall 218 of the body 212, as shown in FIG. 18C. The second end 254 of the collapsible external compartment 214 is secured to the front exterior wall 218 of the main body 212 at an upper end 220 of the front exterior wall.

Then the fasteners 263 can be fastened (first and second hooks 264 can be inserted in the loops 266), as shown in FIG. 18C. With the hooks 264 secured in the loops 266, the collapsible external compartment 214 is configured to retain the second item or second set of items. With this arrangement, the collapsible external compartment has a height that is preferably similar to the height of the body 212 of the carrying article 200. With this arrangement, the rear surface of the collapsible external compartment extends along and is adjacent a front surface 218 of the body 212. It is also appreciated that the collapsible external compartment can be configured with different lengths (heights) and can be configured to attach to the body of the carrying article at various locations to provide various carrying volumes of the collapsible external compartment.

It is appreciated that modifications can be made to the arrangement for securing the second compartment to the backpack. For example, the second fastener portion can also be positioned on the main body of the backpack so that the second end of the collapsible external compartment can be secured to the main body of the backpack so that it covers at least part of the first opening that defines the main compartment. However, it is appreciated that with such arrangement, the main compartment may not be as easily accessible (for example without unfastening at least one fastener of the second compartment) with second compartment deployed and fastened in the second position.

The carrying article 200 can include a rain cover, such as rain cover 70 as shown and described in relation to the carrying article 10 above.

As can be seen from the above description, the present disclosure provides a collapsible external compartment that allows a user to carry items in the collapsible external compartment adjacent the main compartment of the carrying article. This allows a user to expand the volume of the carrying article as desired. Some of the advantages of present disclosure are that the collapsible external compartment improves the aesthetic appearance of the backpack when the collapsible external compartment concealed, and the collapsible external compartment is held securely against the body that defines the main compartment when the collapsible external compartment is deployed.

Because the collapsible external compartment is supported at its upper end by two fasteners that are towards opposite lateral sides of the body of the carrying article, the collapsible external compartment is a sturdy extension of the main compartment. In some embodiments, the collapsible external compartment is made of the same material as the main compartment, or is made of a similar material. In some embodiments, the collapsible external compartment has a bottom wall having a bottom face that is configured to be flush with the bottom face of the body when the collapsible external compartment is in the second position. This improves both the function and the appearance of the carrying article.

The collapsible external compartment effectively acts as an extension of the body of the carrying article. The present disclosure provides a carrying article that has an appealing aesthetic appearance when the collapsible external compartment is in both the first position and in the second position. When the collapsible external compartment is in the first position, it is hidden within the first pocket. The first pocket is located at the lower edge of the front exterior wall, so it is well concealed from a user. When the collapsible external compartment is in the second position, the external surface of the collapsible external compartment has a similar appearance to body of the collapsible article. When the rain cover extends over the body and the collapsible external compartment, the carrying article has a substantially unitary appearance of the body and the collapsible external compartment.

In some embodiments, because the rain cover and the collapsible external compartment are each fastened at a respective end to the body of the carrying article, the carrying article provides an integral structure that ensures a user always has the external compartment and the rain cover along with the body of the carrying article. This also facilitates alignment of the external compartment and the rain cover with respect to the body, so the user can readily expand the carrying volume of the carrying article.

It is appreciated that the carrying article can also be briefcases, tote bags, pocketbooks, purses, messenger bags, duffel bags, sports equipment bags, suitcases including soft-shell luggage and hard-shell luggage, and other bags that can be configured with a first pocket that houses a collapsible external compartment.

While the disclosed subject matter is described herein in terms of certain exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and improvements can be made to the disclosed subject matter without departing from the scope thereof. As such, the particular features claimed below and disclosed above can be combined with each other in other manners within the scope of the disclosed subject matter such that the disclosed subject matter should be recognized as also specifically directed to other embodiments having any other possible permutations and combinations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the systems and methods of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed subject matter. Thus, it is intended that the disclosed subject matter include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

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